All the Nucks cuts, trims and personal choices have been made for us.
Here's the starting roster according to reliable (or not) public sources:
Forwards (14):
Pettersson, Boeser, DeBrusk, Chytil, Kane, Garland, Blueger, O'Connor, Sherwood, Cootes, Lekkerimäki, Bains, Karlsson, Räty
Defence (7):
Hughes, Hronek, M. Pettersson, Myers, Forbort, E. Pettersson, Mancini
Goaltenders (2):
Demko, Lankinen
Faeries (2):
Hoglander, Joseph
Pretty good starting roster... but now the questions begin. Kent and Thursday provide sane(ish), sober(ish) analysis, Westy and jimmi will provide the other kinds.
Who should be on PP1?
Kent - I think this is pretty simple. Run a first unit with EP40, Boeser, Kane, Garland and Hughes. Second unit can roll DeBrusk, Chytil, Sherwood, Lekkerimaki and Hronek. I'd like to see Garland on that first unit because he has literally been the hardest-working Canuck the past two seasons, and his ability on the boards and with the puck can cause chaos that frees those other three forwards up.
Jimmi - Prefer the top 7 Nucks... but the NHL will whine like little babies about our new over-over-manned unit. Therefore, gotta go with Huggie, Lekky, Petey, Bessie and DeBriskie. Kane can take us off the PP on the 2nd unit.
Westy - I hope to see Lekky out there, shooting one-timers, just so Petey gets more space to go shoot one-timers. The man in the front better be ready to take a few shots. I think DeBrusk has better hands, but Kane might be able to take more abuse.
Thursday - I'll need to be convinced that Kane can do anything that needs creativity, but if he can hold the front of the net, I'm good with him being there. Otherwise, the QB has got to be Hughes, with Boeser, Pettersson, and probably DeBrusk down low. He has a weirdly effective shot when he's standing on the red line.
How effective will the mighty Nucks PK be this season?
Kent - I think it's going to continue to be solid. They've got some really effective PK guys, and are a threat to pop some shorties. They definitely need to work on staying out of the box as much as possible, but it's far from an automatic goal if they have to kill one off.
Jimmi - Very effective. Haven't allowed a single goal yet - in the regular season. They looked pretty good in the pre, just need to pre-empt the issue by only taking penalties against opponents with a pathetic PP.
Westy - First of all, stop taking penalties so we don't need a PK. (You hear me Tyler!) Secondly, it will interesting to see if the PK is agressive or sit back and clear shots. I am sure they will have their "running around chasing shadows" moments. Top 10 would be nice.
Thursday - The PK could be a really fun watch this year. Last season, Garland got to be a regular and did really well. I think he's going to go hunting for goals, just because it will annoy their opponents no end. Curious to see if Boeser gets the PK time he's asking for.
Do you trust Myers....even at $3 million?
Kent - I think we saw signs of Myers being used more effectively last season than his entire tenure in Vancouver. Adam Foote knows what this guy can and cannot do, and if they can pair him up with a solid partner in limited minutes, he'll provide value even at that price.
Jimmi - Yes, but more trusty if he's on the 3rd pair... maybe later.
Westy - I trust the penalty box will be his 2nd home this year....again.
Thursday - He's got a regular "stay-home" partner in Pettersson (no, the other one), and I think Foote will ask him to use his speed more to push the puck up. He'll probably be successful more frequently than not, but I don't know if that means enough to keep the experiment going. Let's say I trust Pettersson to minimize the damage done when it doesn't work.
What are the expectations for Kane?
Kent - I don't know, man. I'm still not even happy with him being here, if I'm honest. How many chances should a guy get, right? I think Jimmi's got the right idea. If Kane can stay healthy and out of the off-ice garbage, he could be either a nice piece of trade bait or... well, I will finish that thought on the next question.
Jimmi - Low to medium low. Expect we'll enjoy watching him take us off the PP. Hence the 2nd unit usage. Maybe he'll stick up for his teammates and get some extra time in Myer's summer cottage. On the medium side, maybe he plays well on the boards and scores enough goals by March to be good trade bait.
Westy - Wouldn't it be nice if he scored 20 goals before the deadline and then have to have a real discussion about his worth. He definitely shouldn't be signed to a new contract by GMPA.
Thursday - He usually does well in a contract year, and he managed to keep his off-ice drama to zero after his move to Edmonton. Getting 20 goals and 50 points with some abrasiveness would do me fine.
Is Cootes here to stay or is this just a 9-game trial?
Kent - Unless he is doing something ridiculous like putting up a point a game, and being an absolute difference maker, this will be 9 games. I am high on him, I think he's gonna end up being an absolute steal of a pick, but I think long term going back to junior for one more year is what's best for him and the team.
Jimmi - Game number 9 or number 96 will tell us all. But we can't wait that long. Besides, he's pre-destined to return to the dub and become a monster point-scoring monster.
Westy - I think it depends on Hogs....oh wait. Think about this, an 18 year old made this team. Playoffs might be hard to get to.
Thursday - I don't care much about the season-burning at ten games, so long as he's earned them. I could see him playing every two of three, then time to practice and reflect on the lessons. I want him to be in the World Juniors, though. I can see the argument either way - do everything for his WHL team, or have NHL opponents and training? I'd love it if he earned his keep with Vancouver, but I'll guess 20 games.
Why will this team miss the playoffs?
Kent - Yeah. You know what? Fuck it. I am tired of all the negative stuff in the world right now, so I am gonna believe in this team. Is it going to be insanely difficult for them? Yes. But this is a team that has some talent, and if they can stay healthy, that is half the battle right there. Injuries and a lot of off-ice bullshit really impacted this team last year. Healthy, return to normal seasons for Elias Pettersson, Thatcher Demko and for some of last year's impact players to build on what they did last time around, in the division they play in could see the Canucks get in, and if you can just get there, crazy shit can happen.
Jimmi - Why oh why? Could it be that BC Faeries can't get cheap hooch anymore at BCLQ shops and take out their unwelcome soberness on our new winning roster. Or our new winning roster still isn't winning enough and there's only one reason left: No practice facility.
But wait! Kent is onto something. Something strange, yet appealing... wish I could remember the word for it... let's back Kent for backing the impossible!
Westy - #1 - Because Vancouver and the hockey gods are trying to push Quinn out.
#2 - Special teams won't be able to make up for this mediocre 5 vs 5 team.
Thursday - The usual reasons, which would be a little odd. Just the team not executing as they should. Not personal drama, not hundreds of games lost to injuries, not a failure to communicate between coaches and players. Just plain old not being good enough.
IF... big IF, if the Nucks miss the playoffs, who will be the next GM? President? Owner?
Kent - You have to think that both the GM and President's jobs are on the line. I have given up waiting for a change in ownership. It's not gonna happen in my lifetime.
Jimmi - Franny will finally come out of the micro-managing boardroom closet and go full macro-managing billionaire President and General Manager of His Vancouver Canucks. Franchise to be moved later to some winery, so Franny can multi-task within limo distance.
Westy - The Sedins will fully take over the team and co-run it all. The team colours will change to the blue, gold and white of Sweden.
Thursday - The Aquabats have a hard time moving on from their decisions. I expect an announcement about how much ownership supports management, followed by a total housecleaning four games into the 2026-27 season and the hiring of Kyle Dubas for every position. They will immediately be fined One McDavid ($12.5 million) for tampering.
How will the Nucks win the division?
Kent - The Oilers lose Draisaitl and McDavid to injury, Vegas underperforms, and the Canucks have the healthiest season in their 55+ miserable years of existence. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.
Jimmi - By claiming more than 1 loser point in every freakin' OT, by winning more games in regulation than any other team in the Pacific. Simple. Why didn't they think of this before?
Westy - Vegas implodes and McDavid/Draisatl both get hurt....and Petey gets 100+ points, with Demko getting 10 shutouts. So there's a chance.
Thursday - Slowly. Lots of one- and two-goal wins, no drop-off from Demko to Lankinen, and two defencemen sitting top-six in team scoring.
SIGNING BONUS ROUND:
Besides Kane, which player would be the one traded in March if the Canucks suck.... besides Demko
Kent - I think Chytl and Sherwood would be definite trade bait. I'm not thinking about any other scenarios.
Jimmi - Willander? Myers? (so Westy can nap better) Not Quinn?! They wouldn't dare... would they?
Westy - Demko...wait....I can't say Brock anymore, especially with that contract. So, the dependable 2nd round pick will be traded in March.
Thursday - It's hard to see the team blowing it so badly that they decide to sell pieces, BUT Höglander's the obvious choice that can bring some kind of return. Forbort is a classic "guy team heading into the playoffs wants" for a contender. There's a lot of trade protection to dodge otherwise.
How much will Luke regret signing a cheap long-term deal in Jersey?
Kent - Yes. He could have played it out and come to Vancouver. He'll be sorry.
Jimmi - Like t----h----i----s much. Maybe more.
Westy - I wish I had a cheap contract like Luke. Jimmi.....can I have a cheap contract like Luke.
No. Your current contract is cheap enough. Can't put a price on free.
jimmi
Thursday - At least he'll be close to his favourite hospital. Do they have Frequent Flyer miles?
How much will Huggie want to sign a cheap long-term deal in Jersey?
Kent - Not gonna be cheap. This is the season that convinces him to stay. So shut up about fuckin' New Jersey already.
Jimmi - Not too much. So, that's good. A short term pricey deal in [redacted] to align with Jack's contract. That's not so good.
Westy - I think a cheap Huggy is $15 million/yr.....The Devils would have to make a deal with themselves to be able to cover that.
Thursday - Let's see: on his off days, Hughes can walk around Stanley Park in the rain. Or he can walk around Newark in the sleet.
Oh boy, we get to choke down a meal we were already served once. Yay!
Well, let's get this over with then, shall we?
FLORIDA PANTHERS vs CAROLINA HURRICANES
Kent- Florida in 6
Jimmi- Florida in 7
Westy- Florida in 6
We all picked the winner, which was a no brainer. Jimmi was the one who gave Carolina way too much credit though. Point and laugh, everyone. Point and laugh.
EDMONTON OILERS vs DALLAS STARS
Kent- Dallas in 7
Jimmi- Oilers in 6
Westy- Dallas in 6
Jimmi was the only one calling Edmonton here, and trust me, we feel shame for being fooled by a) a fraudulent Dallas team and b) the belief that the Oilers wouldn't get away with Florida-like shit in this series. Lesson learned.
So that makes Jimmi the winner of the third round. Jerk
Alright, gentlemen... let's hear it.
EDMONTON OILERS vs FLORIDA PANTHERS
Kent- Goddammit. I hate this. I hate this so much. Stupid fucking asshole fascist lunatic down south making it impossible to even stay neutral on this. I absolutely hate the Oilers. Everything about them. From the way they tried to fuck the city of Kamloops over and steal their junior hockey team in the 80's, to the victimhood complex of their fans about how hard it is to be them. And years of those arrogant pricks, making life hell for us. And yet, even though I hate the thought of them winning the cup (and how fucking unbearable their fanbase will be for the next decade for this) I just cannot bear another American team standing there with that grinning orange bastard. So I have to begrudgingly hope that the Oilers win. For this country and its sanity. As a giant fuck you to all those fascists calling for the annexation of our country. Goddammit. Don't fuck this up, you assholes. Oilers in 7.
jimmi - B-b-but, Kent, SoBeach team has Canadians on it. Think of our multi-millionaire boys being held captive by millions and millions of a fast depreciating world reserve currency. Will they get deported if they don't bring the Cup to King TACO? We can hope. It's lucky we got rid of 'Never-Quit' Taco before the TACO meme became mainstream.
Where was I? Oh right... choosing between just these two teams. Ugh. 1st round of the playoffs is the best round. The Cup they hand out after the SCF is a fake. A forgery. Why not give out eight fakes and move on? Ok, fine, it's all about the arena money and the faux-best team narrative. I really like Maurice as head coach. Why didn't JR poach him? In an alternate reality, I'm picking the Jets over the Habs in 6. However, Kent wants us to stick to this miserable timeline. Since the Oil are playing better than last season's tilt and the refs are letting them get away with 'infractions', Oil will get 2 home wins to start, lose in the fascist state, win at home, lose and win some more and it's Oil Cats in 7.
Did I just disqualify my vote? Good. I vote to leave the NHL and start an all Canadian pro hockey league. Or even better, repatriate the NHL and all the teams... well... not all. TACOites can start their own league.
Westy - The same teams in the final two years in a row....how fucking boring is that? Edmonton winning a cup does not sit well in this house....or outside the house either. Cheering for Florida, a team that has a Tkachuk and a Marchand....no, just no. I doubt I will watch one friggin game of this series. I would like to see the after effects of Edmonton losing....McDavid demanding a trade before the deadline next year...Drysaddle stuck by himself. Unfortunately, I think the Oil might have less injuries than Florida and that's the key at this time of year. Oilers in 6
Four utterly contemptuous squads battling for Lord Stanley's Mug. The question is, which one of these garbage organizations is going to move on to the finals?
With the Leafs bowing out in a hilariously awful Game Seven yet again, the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are complete. Let's take a look at how awful our predictions were, shall we?
As you may recall, Westy had the most accurate first round predictions. A reminder, you get one point for picking the winning squad, and one point for the correct number of games.
CAROLINA vs WASHINGTON
WESTY- 1 POINT
JIMMI- 1 POINT
KENT- 0 POINTS
The Canes exposed the Caps as the frauds that they are. Ovechkin's mad scoring pace absolutely dried up when it mattered the most, and Carolina actually looked better than we all thought. Good call by those two picking the winner there.
TORONTO vs FLORIDA
WESTY- 1 POINT
JIMMI- 1 POINT
KENT- 1 POINT
Jimmi and Westy called the winner, but I got the correct number of games.
EDMONTON vs VEGAS
WESTY- 0 POINTS
JIMMI- 1 POINT
KENT- 1 POINT
Jimmi was the only one to get the winner right, but I did correctly call the number of games. Vegas turned out to be fraudulent, what a shock that something based in Las Vegas would all be for show.
DALLAS vs WINNIPEG
WESTY- 1 POINT
JIMMI- 0 POINTS
KENT- 0 POINTS
What a heart breaker this series turned out to be. I genuinely feel bad for Jets fans here. Westy was the only one to call Dallas so he gets the point.
So, Westy and Jimmi tie with three points each. We'll have them fight to the death on a live stream to determine a winner coming up this... hold on. The lawyers have just told me to knock it off, so we'll call it a draw. Let's look at the Conference Finals.
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS: CAROLINA HURRICANES vs FLORIDA PANTHERS
KENT- The Florida Panthers are the defending Stanley Cup champions. They're dirty, vicious, and embody a lot of the things that make playoff hockey as rage inducing as it is thrilling. But enough about Sam Bennett. The Panthers looked good against Tampa, but against Toronto they were downright dominant at 5v5 play. That this series went to 7 games was flattering to the Leafs, but not an accurate depiction of reality. The Hurricanes seem to have all the pieces in place this time. They have solid defence, goal scoring, and even goaltending. But can Frederik Andersen be better than Sergei Bobrovsky? I don't think so, and that is why I am calling PANTHERS IN 6.
jimmi - With the fun part of the playoffs over, we can now focus on the tough gritty phase of the yardwork that might have been neglected during a small bout of whiteout fever. Doesn't matter. And neither does this series. Whether 18 year old Sam Bennett ever gets old or the Canes gets whipped again, is not relevant. The hockey media buffoons are hyping this series for their corporate masters. I do not care. My only wish is one nasty team would sweep the other, but due to commercial concerns, we have to endure a long grinding injury-riddled series that ends with the Cats in 7.
Westy - I have cheated and entered this a day after a Florida win. Sue me. I still would have chose Florida in 6
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS: EDMONTON OILERS vs DALLAS STARS
KENT- A rematch from last season's conference finals. And it's frustrating, because we know that the Canucks probably could have beaten Dallas had they been able to beat out the Oilers in Game Seven of the second round, I don't care what you think. This is not the same Dallas team that the Oilers faced last year, and with the on again off again nature of Oilers goaltending, it could be a lot of fun to see Mikko Rantanen feast on them. Yes, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are going to be a handful, but I feel like Dallas has the upper hand here. STARS IN 7.
jimmi - Petrol State vs Petrol State. Tough to pick a winner here. We're all losers in this series. Could this be the last season a 'Canadian' team is involved in the conference finals? In the NHL? Don't know. But do know civil unrest starts on ice. Or at the concession stand. Whatever. Despite both teams providing fascist-friendly violence-on-ice entertainment, the predictable outcome will be as predictably tedious as it was last year, Oil in 6.
Westy - Edmonton wants you to know that they have a good team. I would debate that by saying they have two of the best players on the planet....and then some others that get goals and assists because of them. Now Dallas has a good team. All those Swedes......sorry, I meant Finns! (Send map to Jimmy Ruth) I think Rantanen will be an answer to McDrysaddle. Stars in 6
That's a weird picture above as I swore the Canucks were a postseason given.....and yet.
There are many story lines that the media create to try and bring excitement to some of these series. There will be some series that just won't be exciting.
We, the highly paid and knowledgable gurus at NM, will look into their crystal beer bottle and predict the winner of a meaningless trophy. (because the Canucks are not there)
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Ottawa Senators (WC2) vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (1A)
Game 1: Senators at Maple Leafs, Sunday, April 20, 7 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, ESPN2
Game 2: Senators at Maple Leafs, Tuesday, April 22, 7:30 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, ESPN2
Game 3: Maple Leafs at Senators, Thursday, April 24, 7 p.m. ET; SNE, SNO, SNP, CBC, TVAS, ESPN2
Game 4: Maple Leafs at Senators, Saturday, April 26, 7 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, TBS, truTV, MAX
Game 5: Senators at Maple Leafs, Tuesday, April 29, TBD *
Game 6: Maple Leafs at Senators, Thursday, May 1, TBD *
Game 7: Senators at Maple Leafs, Saturday, May 3, TBD *
Westy: An all Canadian series that helps Bettman get rid of one of them early. Ratings death is what they call this in the states. I'm sure all of Ontario is in a grand circle jerk over this matchup, that was lop-sided during the regular season as the Sens won all three games. During the regular season these teams were pretty equal on special teams. I doubt that will be the case in this series unless Tkachuk and his group can play a physical series and rattle Matthews and Co.. If I watch any of these games, I will definitely mute it as I can't listen to COTU ra-ra. Leafs in 6
jimmi: Unfortunate that Gary gets a win in the 1st round. This could be a tough series. For Laff fans. I'm not bitter Trav is having success, getting in the playoffs with an upstart team, but why couldn't he do that consistently for us? /rhetorical question Expect the Green grind will wear down the Rogers Media Hometowners. Sens in 7.
Kent- While it would have been preferable to not have two Canadian teams face each other until the second round, this one should be a lot of fun. The Battle of Ontario has never disappointed, and with the Leafs looking good this season, and perhaps having their goaltending issues solved, as well as the rebirth of the Senators, this won't be as simple as looking at the regular season standings. While I would love to see a Sens upset here, I feel like the Leafs will pull this off, but it'll be a war. Leafs in 7
Florida Panthers (3A) vs. Tampa Bay Lightning (2A)
Game 1: Panthers at Lightning, Tuesday, April 22, 8:30 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN360, TVAS2, FDSNSUN,
Game 2: Panthers at Lightning, Thursday, April 24, 6:30 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX, SN360, TVAS2,
Game 3: Lightning at Panthers, Saturday, April 26, 1 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX,, SN, TVAS, FDSNSUN,
Game 4: Lightning at Panthers, Monday, April 28, TBD
Game 5: Panthers at Lightning, Wednesday, April 30, TBD *
Game 6: Lightning at Panthers, Friday, May 2, TBD *
Game 7: Panthers at Lightning, Sunday, May 4, TBD *
Westy: The battle of Florida should be a good one as the defending champs have to play an experienced Lightning team that believes they can win it again. These teams already hate each other, so it should be a hard hitting affair. I would love to see Florida and Ottawa in a 2nd round series just so the Tkachuks beat on each other. I doubt that happens. In fact, I think TB can find a way to win here. TB in 7.
jimmi: Reigning champs have been sandbagging for weeks - have Upchuk ready for game 4, after going down 0-3 and come back and win the 7th OT in game 7. Or more likely the winning coach from the 4 Nations - which we won btw - will (not) be onto the 2nd round. Cats in 5. (or so)
Kent- Another installment of the Battle of Florida, you say? While the temptation may be to tag the defending champs with a first round upset (and if any team could make that happen, it's Tampa), the Panthers still have all the key pieces that led them to their first ever Cup last year. Another coin toss, really, but I think the acquisition of Brad Marchand at the trade deadline is going to be a factor here. Panthers in 7.
Montreal Canadiens (WC2) vs. Washington Capitals (1M)
Game 1: Canadiens at at Capitals, Monday, April 21, 7 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN, TVAS, MNMT
Game 2: Canadiens at Capitals, Wednesday, April 23, 7 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN, CBC, TVAS, MNMT
Game 3: Capitals at Canadiens, Friday, April 25, 7 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, TNT, truTV, MAX, MNMT
Game 4: Capitals at Canadiens, Sunday, April 27, 6:30 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, TBS, truTV, MAX, MNMT
Game 5: Canadiens at Capitals, Wednesday, April 30, TBD *
Game 6: Capitals at Canadiens, Friday, May 2, TBD *
Game 7: Canadiens/at Capitals, Sunday, May 4, TBD *
Westy: The power of hockey in Montreal was shown as the French party debate time was moved because all of Quebec would be watching the Canadiens. Unfortunately, the Cinderella finish to the season won't get them past a Washington team that is just better. I would love to see Ovie get knocked out in the first round, but Caps in 6.
jimmi: Westy may well be correct. Technically. But morally, not even close. I do not want that friend of war criminal Putler getting anything, but booos and jeers. And disappointment. So those young Habs need to elevate their game and win the series. For Canada. For Democracy. For Hockey. No pressure. Habs in 7.
Kent- The two biggest surprises in the Eastern Conference going head to head. The Washington Capitals barely made the playoffs last year, so to see them have this kind of a season was shocking. And the Montreal Canadiens rebuild essentially fast forwarding a couple years to snag a wild card slot was a nice surprise for Habs fans. While the Caps have the experience, Montreal is a team that could surprise people. Sam Montembault will have to come up huge here, but I can absolutely see the upset here. Habs in 7.
New Jersey Devils (3M) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (2M)
Game 1: Devils at Hurricanes, Sunday, April 20, 3 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN, SN360, TVAS, FDSNSO, MSGSN
Game 2: Devils at Hurricanes, Tuesday, April 22, 6 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN360, TVAS2, FDSNSO, MSGSN
Game 3: Hurricanes at Devils, Friday, April 25, 8 p.m. ET; TBS, MAX, SN360, TVAS2, FDSNSO, MSGSN
Game 4: Hurricanes at Devils, Sunday, April 27, 3:30 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, SN360, TVAS,
Game 5: Devils at Hurricanes, Tuesday, April 29, TBD *
Game 6: Hurricanes at Devils, Friday, May 2, TBD *
Game 7: Devils at Hurricanes, Sunday, May 4, TBD *
Westy: Now here's a series I don't care about. I think Rod gets his Canes team to play speed bumps in the neutral zone and bore the crap out of us....and win. Canes in 6.
jimmi: Here I can agree with Westy. No interest or care about this series. Seems like evenly matched teams, in different ways. Since Quinn will be there giving his brother, Luke, the Huggie deke mojo, gotta go with Jersey in 6.
Kent- There might not be a more unlikable team in the East right now than Carolina. They're jerks alright, but not the lovable kind. The problem is, they're up against a Devils team that without Jack Hughes, isn't going to stand a chance. The Devils are going to continue to get better, but it's not their year. As much as I would love to see the Canes get sent packing early, it's not gonna happen. Canes in 5.
St. Louis Blues (WC2) vs. Winnipeg Jets (1C)
Game 1: Blues at Jets, Saturday, April 19, 6 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, TNT, truTV, MAX, FDSNMW
Game 2: Blues at Jets, Monday, April 21, 7:30 p.m. ET; CBC, TVAS2, ESPN2, FDSNSW
Game 3: Jets at Blues, Thursday, April 24, 9:30 p.m. ET; ESPN2, SN, CBC, TVAS, FDSNSW
Game 4: Jets at Blues, Sunday, April 27, 1 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS, FDSNMW
Game 5: Blues at Jets, Wednesday, April 30, TBD *
Game 6: Jets at Blues, Friday, May 2, TBD *
Game 7: Blues at Jets, Sunday, May 4, TBD *
Westy: Are the Jets the team to beat? Are the Jets Canada's best hope? I think the answer is yes to both. Fuck Binnington and the Blues. Jets in 5.
jimmi: Ok, now it gets personal, Canada. Gary does NOT want a small market Canadian team getting anywhere. Sure, they won the Prez trophy, but Gary sent them a cheap knockoff, made in Giiinah. We'll be watching how the refs job the Jets, game after game. Doesn't matter. The Jets must not only win this round, but the western final as well.... so they meet Montreal in the SCF and crater Gary's FSA TV ratings. To make it simple for Westy, for us, Jets in 5.
Kent- If you'd told me that the Winnipeg Jets would be Canada's best shot at a Cup in years, I would have laughed, but there's a very real path for these guys to make it to their first ever final, and if Connor Hellebuyck continues to play the way he has, we could see that happen. The Blues went on a heater after the 4 Nations Cup Break, but let's be real here. They're not even close, and this series is gonna expose them as the frauds they are. I am so glad we can get back to hating Jordan Binnington again. Jets in 5.
Colorado Avalanche (3C) vs. Dallas Stars (2C)
Game 1: Avalanche at Stars, Saturday, April 19, 8:30 p.m. ET; TNT, MAX, truTV, SN360, SN, TVAS,
Game 2: Avalanche at Stars, Monday, April 21, 9:30 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN360, TVAS-D, Victory+, ALT
Game 3: Stars at Avalanche, Wednesday, April 23, 9:30 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN360, TVAS2, Victory+, ALT
Game 4: Stars at Avalanche, Saturday, April 26, 9:30 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS, Victory+, ALT
Game 5: Avalanche at Stars, Monday, April 28, TBD *
Game 6: Stars at Avalanche, Thursday, May 1, TBD *
Game 7: Avalanche at Stars, Saturday, May 3, TBD*
Westy: I will probably watch a minute or two of this series as we get to see Gabriel Landeskog play against Mikko Rantanen. This should be a fast-paced series and unfortunately for Dallas, they have found the wrong time of year to suck. Avs in 6.
jimmi: Westy covered the high points. The low point... despite Nucks beating the Stars AND Avs this month, the stupid league wouldn't give us their spots regardless of the NM Rule change. If the NHL assigned both spots to us as directed, Nucks would win the 1st round - without ever playing a single game! Probably the best way for this roster to win a series. Anyways... despite our binding NM resolution, we have to watch the Avs win in 7.
Kent- Hands down the series to watch in the West. The Avs getting Gabe Landeskog back for the first time since they won the Cup in 2022 is going to be something to watch, and while this series will be competitive, I don't think Dallas is as good as people think they are. I mean, what kind of a team blows a 3 goal lead with 60 seconds left? Avs in 6.
Minnesota Wild (WC1) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (1P)
Game 1: Wild at Golden Knights, Sunday, April 20, 10 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN, SN360, TVAS, FDSNNO,
Game 2: Wild at Golden Knights, Tuesday, April 22, 11 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN, SN360, TVAS, FDSNNO,
Game 3: Golden Knights at Wild, Thursday, April 24, 9 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX, SN360, TVAS2,
Game 4: Golden Knights at Wild, Saturday, April 26, 4 p.m. ET; TBS, truTV, MAX, SNW, SNP, SN1, TVAS,
Game 5: Wild at Golden Knights, Tuesday, April 29, TBD *
Game 6: Golden Knights at Wild, Thursday, May 1, TBD *
Game 7: Wild at Golden Knights, Saturday, May 3, TBD *
Westy: Vegas is stacked and has dominated Minnesota all year. Minnesota likes to throw the body and has some speed, but Vegas is too much. Vegas in 4
jimmi: Westy has called it. Correctly. Other than the length of the series. Minni will get one game, because Vegas didn't take the tussle seriously. Nighties in 5.
Kent- Again, I hate to see an easy path for the Golden Knights, but this Minnesota Wild team are absolutely fraudulent. They don't match up well against a team like Vegas, and unless they steal this series with goaltending, it's gonna be over quickly. Vegas in 5.
Edmonton Oilers (3P) vs. Los Angeles Kings (2P)
Game 1: Oilers at Kings, Monday, April 21, 10 p.m. ET; ESPN2, SN, TVAS2, FDSNW
Game 2: Oilers at Kings, Wednesday, April 23, 10 p.m. ET; TBS, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS, FDSNW
Game 3: Kings at Oilers, Friday, April 25, 10 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS2, TNT, truTV, MAX, FDSNW
Game 4: Kings at Oilers, Sunday, April 27, 9:30 p.m. ET; SN, CBC, TVAS, TBS, truTV, MAX, FDSNW
Game 5: Oilers at Kings, Tuesday, April 29, TBD *
Game 6: Kings at Oilers, Thursday, May 1, TBD *
Game 7: Oilers at Kings, Saturday, May 3, TBD *
Westy: I feel dirty cheering for the Kings, but it would be awesome to see the Oilers knocked out early. And the if the season series is any indication, the Kings 3-1 record against the Oilers is a good sign. The Oilers have had injuries and special teams issues this year. The Kings have even surprised themselves with their record. Is this the year the Kings can finally get past the Oil slick.....Oilers in 7.
jimmi: There's no winners here. No cheering for either team. This season, tOilers won't get to the 2nd round or 3rd or anti-climatic loss in the 4th round. They let an errant BC Faerie vessel dock in their land-locked city. No Ekholm, beat up McD, Dry still hurt. If LA bumps already concussed Skinner, Picard ain't getting Oils to round 2. So... LA in 6. I hate LA.
Kent- When I look at this series, this has such a Canucks/Chicago 2011 vibe to it. The Kings have gone out three straight times to the Oilers, but this Kings can definitely roll with them, and if they can exploit the dodgy goaltending the Oilers have had all season, and control the bleeding caused by McDavid and Draisaitl, they can definitely pull this off. Kings in 7.
The NHL gave us the information of when and where.
If you haven't being paying attention to this event because your love of the Canucks has made it so you haven't cared, I give you this link, so you can see the rosters for the four teams. (I might be one of these people)
My first instinct is that Canada is in trouble in this tournament. While they have the best player in the world and two great players who live in Colorado, I see this team as a step slower than the U.S.. I am not sure that my instincts can be trusted since I am a Canucks fan. I do know that I want U.S. goaltending over Canada's for sure. Jordan "I lost the Calder to Petey" Billington will get the start against the Swedes, who have Petey.
The wild card that will really determine who wins this tournament are the refs. Will they allow a hard-hitting game, with some chippiness or will they call it tight and have special teams determine who wins?
I am not going to get into too much depth with rosters and what-ifs, that's your job. I will say that I won't be shocked if the U.S. wins the whole thing and J.T. Miller scores infinity goals. I also won't be surprised if Finland or Sweden steals a game or two from Canada or the U.S.. It will all come down to the guys in the striped shirts and the directions they have been given from the league. I'm sure owners don't want players coming out injured from this tournament. (I am happy Quinn is not playing)
Let us know your predictions! I predicted Petey and Miller drop gloves when their teams play.
Since the Canucks are out...do you really care about these teams?
Game 1: Panthers at Rangers -- May 22, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 2: Panthers at Rangers -- May 24, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 3: Rangers at Panthers -- May 26, 3 p.m. ET (ABC, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 4: Rangers at Panthers -- May 28, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
+ Game 5: Panthers at Rangers -- May 30, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
+ Game 6: Rangers at Panthers -- June 1, 8 p.m. ET (ABC, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
+ Game 7: Panthers at Rangers -- June 3, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN+, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Westy - Do I like any of these teams? The Rangers are using the ghost of 1994 to try and motivate their fans and having Messier on TNT makes it worse. The Flames must look at this team and wonder what if? Having a Tkachuk on their team makes it hard to cheer for Florida. I don't like any of these teams. The Panthers are 2-0-1 against the Rangers this year and they have had an easier time this playoffs. They should be rested and ready to go. Is this the year Lu gets a ring? Meh. Panthers in 7
jimmi - Now we enter the fugly rounds of the playoffs. 1st and 2nd rounds are the fun ones. For fans. Predicting an eastern conference final for me is about as appealing as predicting the enjoyment of a root canal. To be clear, I won't be cheering for either of these teams. Nucks are the only team I cheer for. My cheering stopped last night. The Rags seem to have the edge. The Panters seem to be edgier.
The most important question is what benefits Gary's media stream more, Rags vs Dallas or Florida vs Dallas? Just kidding. Most important part of this series is how well OEL performs. Not just in this series, but all the seasons until 2030 when he stops getting paid by the Nucks. Buyout math says Cats in 7.
Kent - Obviously this is the Eastern battle the league prefers from a tv standpoint. Getting the Rangers in is always good, and Uncle Gary's precious Southern market must be represented always. And while it's truly disappointing that we won't get to see that 30 year revenge series, this one is still gonna be entertaining as hell.
The Rangers are not boring like a lot of the Eastern Conference squads, and with the number of idiots on these two teams, chaos is guaranteed. It's just a matter of who does something stupid first. Speed, physicality, goal scoring, and goaltending. In the end, I feel like the Panthers are still missing something, and the hockey gods cannot seriously have OEL win a Cup after what we went through. That's messed up, even for them. Rangers in 7.
Game 1: Oilers at Stars -- May 23, 8:30 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 2: Oilers at Stars -- May 25, 8 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 3: Stars at Oilers -- May 27, 8:30 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 4: Stars at Oilers -- May 29, 8:30 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS)
+ Game 5: Oilers at Stars -- May 31, TBD (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS)
+ Game 6: Stars at Oilers -- June 2, TBD (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS)
+ Game 7: Oilers at Stars -- June 4, TBD (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Westy - I hate having to write this less than 12 hours after a Canucks loss. But I feel better when I write fuck Edmonton. The Oilers had trouble beating a team that was using their 3rd string goalie and had their best player out for the last game. Dallas matched Colorado's speed and surely can keep up with Edmonton's speed. The Stars can play physical and have a better defensive core than the Canucks. Did I mention fuck Edmonton? The media always asks if Canadians would back the lone team remaining? What a stupid question. I cheer for Dallas for two reasons: 1. Fuck Edmonton and 2. the Stars and owner Tom Gaglardi winning a cup would really piss Franny. Stars in 6.
jimmi - Agree with Westy, this is too soon for a Round 3 prediction fest and yet here we are making unsolicited and hopefully, unwanted predictions. There's nothing of interest here for Nucks fans. Except the possibility of the Stars making the McOil stars cry again at the Cupping futility of icing a 1.25 line playoff team.
Fuck Edmonton, their McWhinies won't have Cole in their (Stars) lineup to boost secondary scoring either. Also like that Franny's poor little billionaire feelings would be hurt with a Dallas win. With those purely stat-driven insights in place, Stars in 5.
Kent - The Edmonton Oilers are frauds, and the series against Vancouver proved it. When you need seven games and one third of your depth scoring going in off a Canucks defenceman who were forced to play their inexperienced third string goalie, that's not a convincing victory. Anyone who tells you different is probably named Mark Spector.
Any team that's been blessed with that many opportunities and still can't get their shit together deserves misery. And believe me, that's what they're gonna get at the hands of the Dallas Stars. This is absolutely gonna be fun to watch, as the pom-pom shakers in the MSM get a rude awakening as they discover that the Oilers are who WE thought they are.
The Stars are faster, stronger, have better goaltending, better defence, better depth and are smarter than the Oilers, and this series will lay it all out. It's almost enough to make me watch it, but being a veteran of the Smythe Division wars, I am so damn tired of the Edmonton Oilers. Fuck 'em. Stars in 4.
Well here we are...the postseason...the second season...the promised land
And to all of our surprise....here come your Vancouver Canucks! There were 4 of us at the start of the year who did not believe this team was playoff capable and questioned how long this team could stay competitive. Hell, I wondered if Petey would even be around by the tradeline. Instead, now we are talking about how far we think this team can go.
Before we start dreaming about the Canucks playing in what Francesco calls "The Money Round!", let's look at the other series that are there to watch on off nights.
New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals
Game 1: Capitals at Rangers -- Sunday, 3 p.m. ET (ESPN, SN, TVAS, MSG, MNMT)
Game 2: Capitals at Rangers -- April 23, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN, TVAS, SNE, SNO, SNW)
Game 3: Rangers at Capitals -- April 26, 7 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN360, TVAS)
Game 4: Rangers at Capitals -- April 28, 8 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, SN360, TVAS, SNE, SNO, SNP)
Game 5: Capitals at Rangers -- May 1, TBD
Game 6: Rangers at Capitals -- May 3, TBD
Game 7: Capitals at Rangers -- May 5, TBD
Westy: Start spreading the news...Messier sucks...nevermind. The Caps snuck into the playoffs in their last game and get the pleasure of playing the best team in the East. This might be a bad thing for Ovie, as the teams split the season 2-2, with the home team winning every game. Playoff hockey is all about the special teams, which the Rangers have. You could also go with the theory that the hot team has the advantage going into the playoffs....Rangers again. Or you could just go with the better team.....Rangers in 5.
jimmi: In all the excitement, drama and inflated expectations of the West being the Best, I may haven forgotten the Best of the West still has to play the leftovers from the east. It's not fair! Actually, I'd be just fine if the NHL was actually two distinct leagues - the WnHL and the EnHL. And met once every 4 to 10 years for some sort of hockey summit thingie. But, again, the NHL doesn't care about my preferences. So... Caps aren't last year's Panthers, no upset prediction. Rags in 5.
Kent- At first glance, you'd think that the Capitals would be hard-pressed to even win a game in this one. Of the 16 teams that qualified for the dance this year, the Caps are by and large the worst of the bunch, and it would be reasonable to expect the team in first to have no problem here. The thing is, the Rangers are giving off real 2023 Boston Bruins vibes. That's not to suggest that the Caps are this year's Florida Panthers, but a) this is not going to be the cake walk everyone thinks it is, and b) the Rangers won't get much further. Rangers in 7.
Florida Panthers vs Tampa Bay Lightning
Game 1: Lightning at Panthers -- Sunday - Panters Win 3-2
Game 2: Lightning at Panthers -- April 23, 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN2, SN360, TVAS)
Game 3: Panthers at Lightning -- April 25, 7 p.m. ET (TBS, MAX, SN, TVAS)
Game 4: Panthers at Lightning -- April 27, 5 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, TVAS, SNE, SNW, SNP)
Game 5: Lightning at Panthers -- April 29, TBD
Game 6: Panthers at Lightning -- May 1, TBD
Game 7: Lightning at Panthers -- May 4, TBD
Westy - The Battle of Florida should be entertaining. Unlike last year, the Panthers didn't slink their way into the playoffs, while the aging Lightning played just good enough to get into the dance again. The Panthers had the 2-1 advantage in the season series and while the Lightning won the last meeting, I don't think the Lightning have a real chance against the Cats. The Tkachuk-Hubradeau trade looks more lopsided every day. I predict lots of goals and Panthers in 6.
jimmi: Again, I'm just not interested in Floridian hockey - and neither will our great grandchildren. One upside to global warming at least. Despise both teams equally. The Covid-Cuppers and Lu's SoBeach team of pastel flipflop wearing sun-stained hockey players. Ugh. With that distaste fresh in my thoughts, picking the Bolts in 7.
Kent- Pay no mind to Jimmi, as we've learned over the years he cares not a squirt for fun things. This series is going to be an absolute war. Both teams are loaded with offensive talent, strong defence, excellent goaltending and most of all, some thoroughly unlikable players on both sides. While we're going to get treated to some amazing playoff hockey, the team that emerges from this one isn't going to have much left for the second round and beyond. I do believe that Tampa's window is continuing to close, though, and it could be an interesting summer. Panthers in 7.
Boston Boouurrns vs Toronto Maple Laughs
Game 1: Maple Leafs at Bruins -- Saturday 8 p.m. 5-1 Boourns Win
Game 2: Maple Leafs at Bruins -- April 22, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 3: Bruins at Maple Leafs -- April 24, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN, SN, TVAS, CBC)
Game 4: Bruins at Maple Leafs -- April 27, 8 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS, CBC)
Game 5: Maple Leafs at Bruins -- April 30, TBD
Game 6: Bruins at Maple Leafs -- May 2, TBD
Game 7: Maple Leafs at Bruins -- May 4, TBD
Westy - This yearly event must brings night sweats to Leaf fans. The Bruins had their own nightmare last year after winning the President's Trophy and getting knocked out in the first round. This should be a "good" series between two teams that I hope lose. Like always, if the Bruins can stop Matthews, they can win the series...sounds simple. Boston swept the season series, and I think the have the system to get rid of the COTU. Bruins in 6
jimmi: It just keeps getting more disgusting. I predict I won't loathe Porn-Stache's team any less if they win, nor detest the Ratchand's last swipe at the CoTU, but the later team is more likely to 'advance' only to be eliminated in the 2nd round. So... Boooins in 7... despite the Laffs leading 6-0 in the 3rd period of that fateful game.
Kent- Remember back to the last time we were actually excited about this team, and the Canucks had to go up against the Chicago Blackhawks for a third time? The dragon was slain, and we got to witness a pretty amazing playoff run. I'm not saying that the Leafs are destined for greatness, as they're still in need of better goaltending and have bottom of the roster gaps that need to be filled. They are however, playing against a Boston team that isn't quite the same as the one that has haunted them three times previous. It won't be easy, but much like the Canucks in 2011, they'll finally slay their dragon and move forward. Leafs in 7.
Carolina Hurricanes vs New York Islanders
Game 1: Islanders at Hurricanes -- Saturday - Canes Win 3-1
Game 2: Islanders at Hurricanes -- April 22, 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN2, SN360, TVAS)
Game 3: Hurricanes at Islanders -- April 25, 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN2, SN360, TVAS)
Game 4: Hurricanes at Islanders -- April 27, 2 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS)
Game 5: Islanders at Hurricanes -- April 30, TBD
Game 6: Hurricanes at Islanders -- May 2, TBD
Game 7: Islanders at Hurricanes -- May 4, TBD
Westy - Bo is 2 for 2 when it comes to getting into the playoffs. Unfortunately, his team will also get knocked out early for the 2nd year in a row. The Islanders were 2-2 against the Canes, but Freddy Andersen is back and Brind Amour will have that neutral zone trap ready to bore the fans to death and beat down Barzal and Bo. Canes in 5
jimmi: Another pair of teams in the east that I neither care about or follow. Sure, have some sentimental Bo feelings and some unfulfilled Guentzelling to deal with - really PA? Did you even try? Sure does look like the Canes in 6 from the disgruntled outside.
Kent- Carolina's the team to beat in the East, and while they're not without their weaknesses, Rod Brind'Amour's squad are built for the post-season. They're up against an Islanders squad that had to grind to get into the playoffs, and while they're not going to be swept, they're no match for the Bunch of Jerks. Canes in 5.
Winnipeg Jets vs Colorado Avalanche
Game 1: Avalanche at Jets -- Sunday, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN2, SN, TVAS)
Game 2: Avalanche at Jets -- April 23, 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 3: Jets at Avalanche -- April 26, 10 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, CBC, TVAS)
Game 4: Jets at Avalanche -- April 28, 2:30 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS)
Game 5: Avalanche at Jets -- April 30, TBD
Game 6: Jets at Avalanche -- May 2, TBD
Game 7: Avalanche at Jets -- May 4, TBD
Westy - On paper, this might be a great series....of course on paper the Avs might also be overmatched. The Jets dominated the Avs this year, going 3-0 with a combined score of 17-4. Both teams are fast, but Winnipeg is a team that will finish all their checks and may even start some before they finish the first one. What I like about this series is one great team is going home. Having the best goalie in the league (sorry Canuck fans) gives Winnipeg a distinct advantage. Jets in 6
jimmi: Well... finally we make it to the interesting part of the playoffs. Agree with Westy, whoever wins means one less good team to worry about. I no longer have any affiliation with the Avs - didn't before, but pretending to sound like it makes internet rumours so much fun. Besides, the Avs already got their 21st century Cup. Bastards! Have to go with Chicky's 2nd fav team, Jets in 7.
Kent- After the Canucks, the Jets were one of the surprises in the NHL this season. They're pretty similar, apart from a stingier defence, and have a goaltender in Connor Hellebuyck who seems like he was born for a long Stanley Cup run. It's a shame that they're going to have to go up against the Colorado Avalanche, just two years past their Cup win and still very much a threat. As good as the Jets are on defence, I can see Nathan MacKinnon feasting on them. Avalanche in 6.
Edmonton Oilers vs Los Angeles Kings
Game 1: Kings at Oilers -- April 22, 10 p.m. ET (ESPN2, SN, CBC, TVAS)
Game 2: Kings at Oilers -- April 24, 10 p.m. ET (TBS, MAX, SN, TVAS, CBC)
Game 3: Oilers at Kings -- April 26, 10:30 p.m. ET (TBS, MAX, SN, TVAS)
Game 4: Oilers at Kings -- April 28, 10:30 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, SN1, TVAS)
Game 5: Kings at Oilers -- May 1, TBD
Game 6: Oilers at Kings -- May 3, TBD
Game 7: Kings at Oilers -- May 5, TBD
Westy - I approve of this series. If there is a team that can play a stifling type of playoff defense that could frustrate McDavid, it's LA. Now having said that, the Oilers have a lot of weapons at their disposal besides McDavid. The Oilers have a top 5 PP and the Kings have the #2 PK. I believe the goaltending edge goes to the Kings. I usually don't watch other teams, but this series might make me go back after the Nucks game and take a peek. I am wishing for a Kings victory, but cold hard stats point at the Oilers moving on. Oilers in 6
jimmi: Finally. I get to disagree with Westy. Again. There's no fun in watching either of these teams play. Not the LA 'no hockey' form of hockey, nor the cyber-McD-legs darting here are there around/through the stifling one-three-one. I'm not wishing for a victory for either team. Just a tough series that wears down the winning team. Which is the Oil in 7.
Kent- Forget what the regular season told us about Los Angeles: they might be the biggest frauds of the sweet 16 this year. And while I'm not entirely sold on the Oilers turn-around with new Head Coach Chris Knoblauch, the Kings don't have what it takes to stop McDavid, Draisaitl and company. Oilers in 5.
Dallas Stars vs Lost Vegas Gollum Knights
Game 1: Golden Knights at Stars -- April 22, 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN, SN360, TVAS, FX)
Game 2: Golden Knights at Stars -- April 24, 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN, SN360, TVAS)
Game 3: Stars at Golden Knights -- April 27, 10:30 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, SN360, TVAS)
Game 4: Stars at Golden Knights -- April 29, TBD
Game 5: Golden Knights at Stars -- May 1, TBD
Game 6: Stars at Golden Knights -- May 3, TBD
Game 7: Golden Knights at Stars -- May 5, TBD
Westy - Does anyone else feel that Vegas has done something dirty and wanted this matchup? Will anyone be surprised when Mark Stone strolls out of the dressing room for game 1? The Stars did a lot of good things to get #1 overall in the Western conference only to face a Vegas team that beat them 3 times this year. While I pointed to stats to predict a winner in the Edm/LA series, I am going the opposite with this series. The stats lie. Vegas always finds a way into the playoffs, even when they play mediocre like this year, and then they are able to hit playoff mode and win. And when Vegas beats Dallas, they will face a team in Col or Winn, who they also have a winning record against. Cheaters. Vegas in 5
jimmi: Sorry, Westy, it's not cheating when you're the house. The house that bribed its way past the cost accountants in Gary's employ and bent the 'rules' for a new franchise. Iron Spleen Stone will return in game 2, to portray a semi-miraculous recovery narrative - one as true and tall as the Eiffel Tower - of Vegas. Doesn't matter. I predict that hockey karma - which is like a Hindu Hockey Gawd story - will see the Nighties getting beaten by not just the Stars, but their own sleazy hubris. Stars in 6.
Kent- It can take a while, but bastards always get what's coming to them. And Uncle Gary's Little Darlings and the NHL's most obnoxious fan base are going to know what actual playoff misery is like this year as they get exposed by a very good Dallas squad. It's gonna be tough to knock off the Stars as they start their quest for a second Cup, but they won't have to worry much about the defending champs. Stars in 6.
Vancouver Canucks vs Nashville Predators
Game 1: Predators at Canucks -- Sunday, 10 p.m. ET (ESPN, SN, SN360, TVAS)
Game 2: Predators at Canucks -- April 23, 10 p.m. ET ( ESPN2, SN, TVAS)
Game 3: Canucks at Predators -- April 26, 7:30 p.m. ET (TBS, MAX, SN, TVAS)
Game 4: Canucks at Predators -- April 28, 5 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, MAX, SN, TVAS)
Game 5: Predators at Canucks -- April 30, TBD
Game 6: Canucks at Predators -- May 3, TBD
Game 7: Predators at Canucks -- May 5, TBD
Westy - I asked for this series. I liked Vancouver's chances against a Preds team that they beat every time this year. i like playing against a team that has worse special teams numbers than the Nucks. I like playing against a team that went 4-5-1 in their last 10 games. And I like the fact that there is no shootout in playoff. I don't like playing against a Preds team that hits anything and everything on the ice, especially if the refs lose their whistles. I don't like playing against guys Forsberg, Josi and O'Reilly in the playoffs. I don't like playing in Nashville. I don't like whatever refs they assign to this series. Since I asked for this series, I guess I better be optimistic about our chances. Canucks in 6
jimmi: WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Also WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! The outcome of this series is uncertain, but WOOOOOOOOOOO! We're in a playoff series!!! Sure, I would have preferred Nucks meet and beat the Yotes in the Mullet. In a SCP series. Just to rub a little sand in Gary's 28 year money-losing desert fever dream. However, I'm happy to watch the Nucks play in any SCP game in the ROG. It's been so long, I don't even recall what SCP stands for, except something something about owner profits. And it's about time our poor down-trodden billionaire owner recoups some of his lost ego-strokes. With that vital priority in mind, Nucks in 7 with an extra home game to feed the NHL greed machine's furthest outpost. And to give NM Playoff gamethreaders the anxiety boost they have longed for since 2012... 2011.
(Disclaimer: Prefer the Nucks sweep the Preds, but that denies extra profit - and Franny has to cover that extra $92M on the books)
Kent- As fun as it was to have that little jaunt in the bubble back in 2020, I don't feel like that counted. It's been 9 years since the Canucks hosted a playoff game in Rogers Arena, and it's a fine reward for a team that is the biggest surprise in the NHL this season, as well as a fan base that was patient through years of utterly inept management and coaching. They're up against a team that looked like they were destined for lottery pick a couple months ago: the Nashville Predators. And while it's hard not to be impressed with the run Nashville had, they did it against mostly teams who aren't in the playoffs, struggling against true contenders. It's not that they're bad, but they're more like their overall record than the way they played in the final two months of the regular season. After getting a taste in 2020, JT, Brock, Demko, Petey and Huggy Bear get to show this management team that keeping the core together and giving them a better supporting cast was the right thing to do. This team plays much like their Head Coach Rick Tocchet did back in his prime, and while it's a legit surprise they're here, it's time to show the doubters this team is actually good. Canucks in 5.
Let us know what you think about these series! Don't you dare pick the fucking Preds to win.
It's the return of the 11th most popular Canucks panel discussion! Our first round table of 2024 discusses what to do about Andrei Kuzmenko, the Lotto Line, what the Canucks need to do to prepare for this thing called 'playoff hockey', and some around the NHL nonsense. As a reminder, the opinions shared are of the individuals and not the blog itself, and those of Westy and Jimmi should be taken with a grain of salt, followed by a shot of tequila and some lime. Let's go!
1- Andrei Kuzmenko has a rotating door on the ol' doghouse right now. What should the Canucks do about the struggling Russian?
Kent- There's a number of people who think that they should be exploring a trade to try and get something for Kuzmenko right away, but I'm not sure that now is the time. We're hearing both he and his agent are committed to sticking with the Canucks and trying to work through this. And it may well be that he can do that. As far as trading him, he definitely makes an attractive piece of trade bait at the deadline, and with teams already asking about him, they could use him to solidify any deficiencies as they look at a post-season appearance.
jimmi - Just last year some wanted to trade Brock as well. Goal scorers can be streaky. And when the streak is not streak we seek... trade 'em! With his 8 goals and $5.5M contract, uncertain his trade value is worth the deal versus letting him spinoff the sophomore funk, marinate in the Taco teachings and come out the other side with 50 goals and +15 next season. Or this season. That would be good as well.
Westy - Kuz was not coached last year by Boudreau. He was allowed to float around and shoot and then not come back on defense. The last games of the year were spent with Taco, trying to learn a new system and this year Kuz is struggling to realize that both sides of the system are being looked at. He will last the year in Van, just do to his contract and lack of production this year. He is also needed in case the injury....sorry, when the injury faeries show up.
2- To try and kickstart the top 6, Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet reunited the Lotto Line, and to say it worked is a mild understatement. Do they keep Petey, Boes & Millsy together, or do they have to split them out of necessity because of the need for a legitimate 2nd line centre?
Kent- Obviously the way the Lotto Line clicked on Saturday in New Jersey was encouraging, and we'll have to see how they continue to play to see if this pans out, but if they can get Pius Suter, Kuzmenko and Ilya Mikheyev rolling there won't be a need for it. Suter's been fantastic since his return, and if there's any chemistry with them, they ought to explore it for as long as possible.
jimmi - Hope Taco keeps the Lotto Line together - despite Pete disliking the label. It sure seems like Kuz will thrive being with Suter. As Kuz took the most shots (6) of any Nucks forward last game. With increased shooting percentage, increased confidence and goals will not be far behind.
Westy - Keep'em going this month, get as many points as you can against non-divisional opponents and then split them up again after Feb 21. The Canucks don't see another Pacific team until then. Save the Lotto Line for the first round of the playoffs.
3- So get this: After the season ends, there's this whole new season, right? And like, only some of the teams get to be in it, and you play the same team until one of them wins four games, then you play someone else. And there's this big trophy and everything. Anyway, it looks like the Canucks are gonna do this thing. What should they do to like, you know, be better for this thing?
Kent- Heading into this season, just to have this team compete for a wild card slot would be considered success given the way the last decade has gone. We knew, and were prepared for time and the accompanying frustration of trying to undo the damage of the previous regime. So for them to still be legit contenders not just for the top spot in the Pacific Division, and not just the Western Conference, but their first Presidents Trophy since they won it back to back in 2010-11 and 2011-12? There wasn't anyone who was saying this that wasn't taking the piss.
As far as making changes, I can't see anything drastic happening, but a better option down the middle for the second line could be worth exploring, as well as one more solid top 3 defenceman. Are they a legit threat to win it all as is? No. So they'd need to upgrade if they're gonna go for it. The question is: How much of the future are they willing to wager to do this? I might be in the minority, but I'm going to be happy with playoff hockey regardless of what happens. Lose in the first round? I'm good, because it's a step forward instead of the constant falling back down the stairs we had gotten used to with the Benning regime.
jimmi - Playoff hockey?! Such a foreign concept. And yet here we are staring deep into that free revenue hockey season played without rules. Will the Nucks make it through the 1st round? I'm with Kent on this. It's all icing on the bonus hockey season. If and it's that Nucking big IF... if the Nucks can keep playing the straight ahead Taco game - play every shift like it's their last of the season... then... who knows.
Westy - First off, I would like to say that Kent is a filthy liar. The moment the Canucks make the playoffs and then when we know who they play in the 1st round, Kent will be telling you how the Canucks can win that series. He will take his heart and hold it out for the Canucks to crush again. "Happy with playoff hockey..." Bullshit.
The question the I have, and Taco has for sure is, "Can this team really buy into a 200 foot system for 60 minutes a night?" There is a big difference in good team when it comes to the playoffs. There top scorers look to make defensive plays and special teams become even more special. The Canucks seem capable to be able to score their way into the playoffs, but it may take another appearance of "Playoff Demko" to get them past the 1st round.
4- Anyone else think Thatcher Demko's kinda not spectacular at the moment? I mean, he's winning games, but he's been giving up some stinkers over the last month. Just a hiccup, or should we be concerned?
Kent- Demko's been great this season, though his numbers have taken a noticeable dip since the start of December. Part of that could be tied to injuries on the back end that saw the defence's play struggle in front of him. But I do worry about his ability to get rest given how intense their schedule has been. And with the way Casey DeSmith's performed in his appearances this season, why not give him a couple more here and there? Yes, you want your number one starter in goal for big games, but DeSmith's earned the chance to get more than the other half of back to backs. A well rested Demko is key to success the rest of the way and beyond. Naturally, after I write this he turns in what was likely his best performance of the season in the win over the Rangers, even though he let in 3 goals. I just want him healthy and rested, and as we saw in the win over the Islanders, the Canucks can lean on DeSmith to help with this. They have the best goal tandem since Luongo/Schneider back in you know when...
jimmi - Demmers has had some meh games in the past few weeks... but if he can win a game in Jersey with a measly .840, it doesn't matter, does it? Agree that he needs his rest and DeSmith could grab a few extra wins while Demmers prepares to be Bubble Demko in that mythical 2nd season. But still... maybe Demmers needs to have his blocker re-calibrated by a goalie whisperer.
Westy - Stats first. So far Demko has the best save %, lowest GAA and highest quality start % of his career.
Demko was struggling before Christmas and the wonky schedule was beneficial for him. The last game was not his best and yet he made some monster saves against the Devils to get the win. I think Taco has stated he always has a number of games he wants Demko to play and the rest of the season lends itself to having DeSmith playing probably every third game.
5- In case you missed it, it appears that Connor Bedard is going to still be out of the lineup when the Chicago Blackhawks make their only visit to Vancouver this season on Jan 22. Should we feel bad for the kid, or is this some kind of punishment for not going full Lindros and refusing to report to the garbage organization he plays for?
Kent- I know that sounds mean, but let's face it: I am the last person who's going to feel any sympathy for the Hawks after the shit they've pulled. And with the catastrophic injuries they've had this season (along with having to jettison Corey Perry early on in the campaign), they're destined for the basement again. And that means they're sure to, like the Edmonton Oilers a decade ago, have top odds to win the draft lottery again, and be given another legit superstar that will lead them to glory down the road. There's no team as undeserving of this than Chicago, and it's because of this that the rest of the hockey world can't even enjoy a little schadenfreude over their current situation. I suppose it's sad for him that he can't play at home in front of friends and family. There was a way out, to go full Lindros and refuse to sign with this vile band of scumbags, but they chose not to take it. All we can hope for now is they lose the lottery. Also, I love that in the first game they played post-injury for Bedard, they beat Calgary in regulation. Brilliant.
jimmi - Feel horrible for Bedard. Not just for his injury, but for signing with the Fawks. That lottery win for the most shamed team in hockey still smacks of old boy slimy manipulation. But, it's the NHL, pretty much invented slimy old boys. Agree with Kent, the little Fawkers losing this year's lotto would be the best thing for hockey. Next to Bedard walking - running - away from that douche-built franchise.
Westy - I refuse to speak about that organization.
6- We're almost at the halfway mark of the season. We'll discuss the Canucks and how they've done in the first 41 later this week, but let's have your hot takes on what we've seen thus far. Who's for real? Which team is fraudulent? Possible award winners?
Kent- I am sure no one will catch Auston Matthews for the Richard trophy, but this year's MVP is likely to be Nathan MacKinnon, though Quinn Hughes deserves some serious consideration. Which teams are for real? In the East, Boston, Carolina and the Rangers are the teams to beat, while Florida and the Leafs are destined to fall flat. In the West, Winnipeg really appear to be the real deal, and as much as it pains me to say this, but in spite of their goaltending woes, the Oilers appear to have things sorted out, but they'll need to stay healthy. Vegas and LA aren't as good as their records suggest, and I'm still not convinced Colorado can go the distance.
jimmi - Awards are for losers. Or the media. Or both. Don't care about individual awards. There's only one team award that counts - the Prez Trophy. And that other free revenue one. The real teams? Winni does seem to be on track - but as we know - being #1 in the league before June is just another statistic. The Oilers are on an astonishing atonement streak. It's fun to watch a one-player team rise back up the standings, only to be swatted away in the early rounds. I don't watch eastern hockey - their nets are smaller and the hits are harder. Maybe they should form their own league. Oh wait... they already have.
Westy - I know this will come as a surprise, but I disagree with Kent when it comes to MVP. It amazes me that he lives in the Eastern Time Zone and and doesn't see the easy choice for MVP....no, not that moustached duffus in the CotU. I am speaking of David Pasternak. Top 3 in scoring with no one else on his team in that list...unlike MacKinnon who has Mikko and Makar, and he is on a team in the top 4 of the league. I won't mention the team as I would have to shower after doing so. That team being near the top is a surprise after Bergeron retired and the 1st round tanking last year. The Rangers look good as a team and it wouldn't surprise me to see them go the final. I look forward to the dismantling of Tampa if they can't get into the playoffs. As for the West...Fucking Vegas has a lot of weapons and if Colorado can stay healthy, watch out. I would love to see Edmonton bomb, but they will probably find 97 ways to get into the playoffs.
It's time for another Nucks Misconduct Round Table. We gather up the NM scribes, ask a few burning questions, you know the deal. As always, we must remind you that the views of Jimmi and Westy are not necessarily those of NM, nor any other sane human being. This week, we look at the Canucks' performance in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, and discuss the free agency additions they've made since Canada Day.
1- First up, let's talk about the draft. While dispensing with the notion that anyone can say with certainty how any of these draft picks will do, let's hear how you feel about the picks, starting with the one they chose at #11: Tom Willander.
Westy - Reinbacher was the best defenseman available but he had a large strike against him for Vancouver, he was not Swedish. So when Willander's name and threw a "23" jersey on him, I had two main thoughts. First, Vancouver getting a Swedish player just feels right. Secondly, the fact they put Edler's "23" on him is just bad ju-ju. Sticks will be breaking all over the place. Unfortunately, after years of Canucks fandom Stockholm syndrome, this pick was logical to me. Which means it probably won't work out.
jimmi - Coulda been worse... there were pre-draft rumours the Nucks would trade down to 15th - swap with Smashville, send a bad contract south... and still have picked Willander. Ok, fine. Not that much worse. I'm not worried about Westy's Fedling curse. Nucks have so many - could be years and years before the stick breaks out of the queue.
Kent- While I agree that it could have been worse there, this was a frustrating pick in my view. Sure, Willander could turn out to be a solid Dman down the road, the Canucks surely would have been better served by taking the best player available at this stage of their post-Benning recovery, and that was Zach Benson. The irony of Buffalo snagging him could be glaring as time goes on. That being said, building a stockpile of prospects, especially on the back end is something this team needs, so let's hope the stubbornness shown by the Canucks scouting staff pays off here.
Markus - I'm not gonna pretend to know anything about these guys. I don't know anything about them beyond what I've learned over the past few days. But on a macro strategy level, I appreciate them finally picking up some defenders. It was so frustrating watching them go skater heavy the past few years, so that was a nice change of pace.
Beggsy - I like Tom Willander as a prospect from the tape I've watched. If he hits on his potential, he'll be exactly what the Canucks need - a defensively responsible, smooth skating, top-four defenceman who can take on tough matchups. I do think Zach Benson was the best player available so I'm in the same boat as Kent. He'll be a guy worth watching (for masochistic purposes) as time goes on.
I also liked the Hunter Brussel Sprouts pick, but I didn't feel great about their final four selections.
2- The Canucks did some rather tidy work of shoring up some depth, and addressing organizational needs through the newly-opened free agency market. Thanks to the cap space cleared up from the Oliver Ekman-Larsson buyout, they had money to spend and they did. First on the list was C Teddy Blueger.
Westy - Who? Seriously. I had to Google him to see he is probably going to be glued to the 4th line. I'm not sure if he is supposed to be on the PK as well. A consistent 20 point guy is not really exciting.
jimmi - You know what could be exciting? Not setting another Nucking record. The record for the worst of the worst of all time NHL PKs. Also... he's gotta Cup ring. So does Ben Hutton. Anyways... if Blueger can bring some of that hard-checking, puck-hounding Strip Glitz to our PK, it would be great.
Kent- The key to a successful team is not just having star players, but guys who excel in the support roles, and I think Blueger could be that guy. First, while he's known as Teddy, his given name is Teodors (he's Latvian by birth) and I am all about those Latvian names. With Arturs Silovs ready to make the move to the backup role behind Thatcher Demko after his solid AHL season and coming out party at the 2023 IIHF Worlds, leading Latvia to a bronze medal, having a fellow countryman in the lineup will be huge. He's a solid faceoff man, and a penalty kill specialist, both things that the Canucks need to be better at this season. A one year deal to prove himself at a team-friendly rate for a guy with a Cup ring? Not sure there's a bad side here.
Markus - Seems like a solid enough bottom-six centerman. I'm not totally sold on him as a 3C -- which I think remains maybe the most glaring hole on the roster -- but he'll probably serviceable there, and ideally, he's a top notch 4C. Good pick up.
Beggsy - The Canucks aren't going to turn into a Stanley Cup contender next season, so with that in mind, I really liked the one-year bet on Blueger. He always stood out to me in Pittsburgh as a penalty killer. Hopefully putting a player like Garland or Hoglander on his line will help boost his offence. But as my NM family has done, you need to temper expectations because in reality he's a 4LC.
3- Next up was the first of a couple new faces on the back end: Ian Cole.
Westy - Old Man Cole logged close to 20 minutes a night for the Lightning. I don't think he will be asked to do that in Vancouver, but what do I know. An injury here or there and he could ask to center the 1st line. Not an offensive threat, Cole will be ask to be that big body on the 2nd or third pairing. The 1 year contract is kind of nice, as each side gets to see how things go before making a drastic choice.
jimmi - Cole harbour connection to JR and the Pens? Not surprising. One year. We can take that.
Kent- Last year, the Canucks were embarrassingly bad on defence. As a result, much of their work in free agency has been devoted to bringing in some new faces on the back end. First up is journeyman Ian Cole. Another player that Jim Rutherford and Patrik Allvin are very familiar with, Cole won back to back Cups with the Penguins, and while he's bounced around a lot, he's the kind of stay at home D needed for the Canucks middle six. Another one year deal, and a very affordable one at that. He literally can't do worse than what we got from Oliver Ekman-Larsson last season, so this is another nice deal for the Canucks.
Markus - Seems like a sturdy addition to the top four. I don't expect him to be groundbreaking, but he seems like a low-maintenance, reliable second pair guy that I won't have to think about too much. And after years of Myers and OEL's nonsense, and people claiming that Luke Schenn is so good that he should have his number retired, I'm looking forward to it.
Beggsy - As long as father time doesn't hit Cole like a Tyler Myers-sized truck next season, he'll boost the Canucks defence. If he can play in a top-four shutdown and top penalty-killing role for the Lightning, then surely he'll help the Canucks.
4- Then we got to the biggest (and least surprising) signing of the day: former Seattle Kraken D Carson Soucy.
Westy - Soucy should be forced to play with Myers for the first shift of the year so we can all see the height. And then separate them as quick as possible so Myers doesn't infect him. Soucy should bring a more physical presence to the back end and hopefully can move the puck out of the defensive zone quicker. I am happy with the contract (except maybe the NTC) and happy that he can be the tall guy next year when Myers is gone.
jimmi - Soucy was saucy versus the Avs in the Western something somethings. Possibly the best Defensive D on the Kracks. If that was because of the Team-D concept executed very well by a newbie team and not some innate D-manding skill, could we tell? No, we could not. Doesn't matter. He looks meaner and tougher than OEL, so he might even be able to keep Myers from a lot some a little freelancing at the wrong time.
Kent- One of the biggest issues with the Canucks from a defensive standpoint over the past few years is that they were absolutely not hard to play against. Apart from Tyler Myers and the now-departed Kyle Burroughs, there just wasn't a lot on the back end that made guys fear going to the net. Soucy, all 6'5" and 210 pounds of him was solid paired with Justin Schultz last season for the Seattle Kraken. He definitely replaces the sandpaper that Burroughs brought, and doesn't appear to have a lot of glaring defensive deficiencies. The contract seems a little pricey, but if he can build on a couple solid years with the Kraken and bring some stability in front of Demko, it'l be money well spent.
Markus - Don't know much about this guy, but by all accounts, another rock solid, reliable add to the D core. No issues with the profile. I guess he's not a slam dunk, no-doubt-about-it top four guy, but I like the odds based on everything I've read. Looking forward to seeing what the ceiling is.
Beggsy - I think I'm more skeptical on what Soucy can be than most pundits in this market. The fact that he saw his role diminished with the Kraken last season was cause for concern. Even though he played well in the playoffs, he only played 15 minutes per night.
That being said, there are things to like about his game. I think pairing him with Quinn Hughes is the way to go (after pairing him with Myers for a game to appease Westy).
5- They followed that up with a couple two way deals: One for veteran Dman and Brentwood Bay, BC native Matt Irwin, and G Zach Sawchenko.
Westy - In a perfect world, neither one of these two would touch the ice next year...or ever. But the Fairies love taking defensemen down so Irwin can log some 3rd pairing minutes this year if guys like Juulsen or Hirose or Rathbone can't play. Sawchenko will have to fight for time on the farm team with Martin.
jimmi - In a perfect world, the Nucks woulda won the Cup in '82, '94, 2011 and 2020. And we'd all be living the high bragging life from our rocking chairs in the South of Frannie's blueberry patch.
As Westy notes, the world isn't perfect and the Faeries will see Irwin logging tough minutes from February until the Nucks are eliminated from playoffs.... again.
Kent- Matt Irwin isn't gonna give you a ton of minutes, and it's likely he's playing a bigger role in Abbotsford than in Vancouver, but another hard working rearguard with experience is a bonus. The former BCHL Nanaimo Clipper will be looked at for a leadership role in either location. With Collin Delia heading out to Winnipeg, earning a one year deal as Connor Hellebuyck's backup following a solid season in the AHL and some decent work with a handful of games for the Canucks, that opened a spot that Sawchenko hopes to fill. It's been an long road to the NHL for Zach, who played seven games for the San Jose Sharks in 2021-22. He spent a ton of time in the ECHL for the Sharks, and he is being looked at as a project, one that the Canucks goaltending gurus can develop into another solid piece of the puzzle. I would think a lot would have to go wrong to see Sawchenko see NHL time this season, but the organization's depth in the crease is encouraging.
Markus - Irwin is a textbook bottom-pair guy. I think something like an Irwin-Myers pair, when sheltered, could be pretty decent. He could even maybe be a 7/8 if a Wolanin or Hirose shines in camp. Good add. Don't know much about the goalie, but I just hope he's competent.
Beggsy - The Canucks signed Victoria-native Matt Irwin so that Markus had an Island boy to cheer for on the Canucks. Congrats Markus!
In terms of Sawchenko, in a perfect world, he's in the ECHL next year because all of Nikita Tolopio, Spencer Martin and Arturs Silovs look stellar from the get-go.
6- One of the things the Canucks need to improve on is developing talent in their system, and one of the bright spots from last season was rewarded with a two year deal as the Canucks signed Tristen Nielsen to a two year ELC.
Westy - Nielsen put up good numbers in his second year on the farm. It would great to get a another center that can move up in a couple years...if the Nucks can trade Miller
jimmi - Be a wonderful story if a northern BC boy makes good in the big leagues. Even better if it happens while playing for the Nucks.
Kent- A huge factor in the Canucks' lack of success in the Jim Benning era was their inability to develop talent at the AHL level. In order for this team to become competitive again, draft picks have to turn into guys that go on to play a role with the team, and the Canucks see something in Tristen Nielsen that suggests this could be the start of this process. Nielsen was a solid two-way performer in Abbotsford, and he's been rewarded with an ELC that's going to give him a shot at challenging Nils Aman for that 4th line C position. He's a BC kid, and no stranger to the area, having played for the WHL Vancouver Giants. This is another sign the team is recovering from the Benningpocalypse, and one we should hope to see repeated with some of the other farmhands.
Markus - Nielsen seems cool. in the bigger picture, I'm glad the farm system seems to be doing its job and producing respectable tweener (and better) talent. After the weirdo situation in Utica, it's nice to see the AHL actually be useful.
Beggsy - Alex Burrows 2.0 LETS GOOOOOOO.
7- And on Sunday, the Canucks locked in another piece on defence, re-signing Akito Hirose to a 2 year deal.
Westy - I hope this guy can make quick strides to play on the 3rd pairing. He looked good in the small amount of games he played. I wonder the philosophy of this coaching staff when it comes to playing youngsters at the start of the year.
jimmi - Hirose has already been described as fleet-footed, which could result in quick strides. I'm just happy to see the Nucks focusing on the D-corps. So we don't have to.
Kent- Hirose played 7 games for the Canucks at the end of the season after signing as a free agent following the end of his NCAA career with Minnesota State, and it was striking how mature and NHL-ready he appeared out of the gate. It reminds me of the way Chris Tanev stepped in and became a huge part of the Canucks D back in the day, and while they may not play the same style, if the Canucks have another Tanev-type win through the NCAA free agency pipeline, that would be a huge win for them. It's a good deal for both player and team, two way this season and one way the next, but if we see more of what we got a glimpse of in April from Hirose, expect to see him in Vancouver more than Abbotsford this season.
Markus - I really liked what I saw out of this guy last year. I like the skating and puck moving ability, and if they didn't sign so many defenders, I'd like his odds of being on the opening night roster. I think he has serious upside, so I'm looking forward to him either winning a spot, or being a foundational piece in Abbotsford.
Beggsy - Hirose vs. Wolanin vs. Rathbone vs. Brisebois vs. Irwin.
Lots of dudes fighting for the left side spot on the third pairing. An interesting battle for the hardcore fans of this team. I think Wolanin has the leg up but I could see Hirose making the team out of camp.
It's time for another Nucks Misconduct Round Table. We gather up the NM scribes, ask a few burning questions, you know the deal. As always, we must remind you that the views of Jimmi and Westy are not necessarily those of NM, nor any other a sane human being. This week, we look at the fallout from the 2023 NHL Draft Lottery, the Canucks hilariously getting in trouble with the NHL, the playoffs and more...
1- What's more surprising: The Chicago Blackhawks winning the Draft Lottery and Connor Bedard, or the Canucks yet again missing out on that first overall pick by one number in the lottery?
Westy - I disagree with the premise of the question. The Canucks didn't miss anything, they can still get the #1 overall pick. Of course, it would cost them 3 1st round picks.....and Petey. In reality, there is no way to please hockey fans and the system they have right now is mathematically sound. It has been pointed out that the drawing of the 14 balls should be done live so the conspiracy theorists will have less to talk about.
I think Chicago has a lot of work to do in free agency to try and have a team that Bedard wants to sign with. Some will point out that the Hawks have 7 more draft picks in the first three rounds of this years draft and 6 more in the first 3 rounds next year to help rebuild this team into a contender in three years. But it will come down to which free agents they can sign to try and build 3 good lines.
The Canucks missing the first pick by one number is the Frankie karma effect. Until he sells the team, the organization is fucked.
jimmi - First of all, what's a premise and am I to vacate it immediately? Neither are more surprising than the other. Both are equally depressing and predictable.
Agree with Westy - the 'lotto' system is mathematically sound and works as designed - delivers the desired results as required by the BoG. The BoG, the sleezebags that keep the NHL's sleazy 50s hockey ethos stinking fresh and fixed.
For the Nucks, guess we have to - as ever - build a contending team the hard way - a team that plays hard all season and harder still in the post season. Is spending another decade in the 20s so bad? Yes, it is. If the Nucks aren't scrambling for a wildcard spot next April and just missing out, we're gonna be pissed.
For the Fawks - the most dishonorable franchise in the National League of Dishonour - have obviously shortened the runway to their next run. Bedard centering Jason Dickinson and Tyler Johnson is the stuff of legend. Legendary groans and gasps.
Kent- I disagree with Westy's disagreement. Big surprise, I know. First of all, the curse is real.
That's the third time in the last decade that the Canucks were one number away from a franchise altering event, and I don't know how else to look at that other than being cursed.
And yes, neither of these things were surprising to me, though honestly, we should have seen the first part coming. When the NHL 'punished' the Chicago Blackhawks for their heinous cover up of the sexual assault of Kyle Beach by former Hawks assistant coach Brad Aldrich, they had an opportunity to show the hockey world that what the organization did was unacceptable. Instead, they gave them what amounts to a finger wag. How else can you view this, as they spent an entire year blatantly tanking, and then get rewarded by being gifted with a player who could quite literally help them rebuild and win a Stanley Cup a few years from now. Yeah, I'm sure they learned their lesson, though. It's so fucking wrong that the Arizona Coyotes were punished harder for a CBA violation (and I want to be clear, they got what they deserved in this case), than a team who at every level from ownership to low-level employees and on-ice talent, hid a crime, and helped the criminal find work with kids, so that he could continue to be a sex predator. If I'm Connor Bedard's parents, I would be losing sleep over any association with a franchise that has this as part of their history, and many of those involved still employed.
Beggsy - Surprising is a funny word to use here, but the roundtable question master is a funny guy.
I won't take the copout route here. The Chicago Blackhawks winning Bedard was more surprising.
I was believing in karma leading up to the lottery. Literally, anybody but Chicago or Arizona winning would have been easier to stomach. Karma, if real, certainly works in funny ways.
As for the Canucks missing out on Bedard by one lotto ball? That's just Canucks fandom, baby.
Markus - It's a trick question -- one was not possible without the other. Thus is being a Canucks fan.
I honestly never even let my mind wander to the Canucks getting Bedard. I knew what the end result was and I didn't need the extra heartbreak. Chicago was definitely the worst option out there, between the off-ice behaviour, them just finishing up a dynastic run, and the recent Canucks rivalry. But surprising? No, not especially. At least they're out of division?
2- The Canucks were fined $50k by the NHL for violating the CBA by having on ice sessions with the players after the season ended. Serious, or seriously funny?
Westy - What's funny to me is that the Club is being punished but not the players. The CBA is an agreement between owners and players and for both sides to break the rule but only one side has to pay the fine seems ....funny.
jimmi - The Club must be punished. Early, often and twice on the same day. Oh... no... that's the fans. Nucks fans must be punished early, often and even in the offseason. $50k fine is easily covered by 5 minutes of concession time next October during the longest home losing streak of the season. No worries.
Also... NHL Wheel of Wild Justice gives out a 1 game suspension to Nurse for an 'instigator' infraction. And only gives a 1 game suspension to Petroanglogize for trying to hack off Drysaddle's arm. That's make-up-call justice, I guess. Bush league league... why do we bother?
Kent- I have no problem with the fine, but wasn't Rick Tocchet the coach when Arizona got busted for running training sessions with potential prospects? You'd think he, of all people, might have some insight on why this might not be a good idea. Now, is this as serious as what the Coyotes did? Absolutely not, it's not even in the same realm. This was, at best, ill-advised and a head scratcher at best. Congrats on being so dedicated to getting better next year that you got in trouble with the NHL, I guess?
Beggsy - What a soft league, fining organizations for an agreed upon on-ice session. Gary must have been looking for a cash grab in order to help out his beloved Arizona Coyotes. Or perhaps, his friends in Florida who can't seem to sell out a playoff game.
Markus - Extremely funny. Of course they got fined for practicing too much. If they didn't, they would have been fined for not practicing enough. How does the NHL even keep coming up with shit to punish the Canucks with? You have no choice but to laugh!
3- We're almost halfway through round two of the playoffs. Your thoughts?
Westy - The idea that Boston, Tampa and Toronto could all be out of the playoffs after 2 rounds seems
A Florida - Vegas Stanley Cup is everything Bettman could have dreamed of. A ratings nightmare it would be of course.
jimmi - Is it...
Well... it's fine the sure-thing eastern cabal teams get bounced... but what about the west? Avs getting pushed aside by $850M upstarts?! Hockey dynasties are harder to keep going than I thought.
Pretty sure Gary's dream SCF would be the Kraken (or whoever is the new billion dollar franchise) VS the Yotes. Also... pretty sure Gary is past his Best Before Date.
Kent- Y'all know I love me some playoff chaos, and that first round brought it. This has been an interesting second round, simply because there's not a clear front runner. Carolina might be as close as you can get to one, but I wouldn't count the Devils out just yet. And Florida, who took out the Bruins, missed their chance to sweep the Leafs, and could just as easily be just the 5th team in history to lose after holding a 3-0 series lead. Seattle/Dallas and Edmonton/Vegas will both go the distance. My hope is for an all Canadian final. You get the hilariousness of ESPN trying to get people in the US to give a shit about hockey, and another egg on Gary Bettman's smug face. You also get to see Canadians pick a side and get stupid yelling at each other about a stupid game. I'm stocking up on popcorn just in case. And I'll tell you straight out, I'd be rooting for the Leafs here, in a heartbeat. I lived through all those damn Oilers cups in the 80's and so many nights of getting embarrassed by that team. As if I would ever be happy seeing them raise the mug again.
Beggsy - My thoughts...
1) Between Sergei Bobrovsky and Philipp Grubauer suddenly turning into studs, goaltending is weird.
2) The combination of speed and structure wins. Look no further than the Carolina Hurricanes.
3) Having snarl and bite matters in the playoffs. Look no further than the Panthers, Oilers and Golden Knights.
Markus - It's honestly kind of fun not having the usual characters going on runs, with the Penguins, Bruins, Lightning, and Avs all being either eliminated or missing altogether. It's nice to have some fresh faces, whether that's the Panthers continuing their miraculous run, the Canes chugging along, or the Oilers finally capitalizing on McDavid and Draisaitl. As long as it's not the Leafs, it's kinda fun.
4- There has once again been discussion of bringing a guy like Milan Lucic in next season to add some toughness to the Canucks lineup. Are you for or against this (and what the hell is wrong with you if you say 'for')?
Westy - If Kyle Burroughs will fight anyone, do we need Lucic? Ignore the times he loses. Lucic is not the answer, to any question that involves winning. Forget about the fighting part....how about adding people who are defensively responsible.
jimmi - Sure... bring in a tough guy, obviously not Looch because he's old, slow, not that tough and a douche from that former-douchebag-rival team. But sure... bring in a young fast tough guy - only if he can play 59 minutes, deliver 5 pts and a knockout every game.
The horrible, horrible lesson I'm learning - all over again - is playoff hockey is a team game. I know, some say, hockey is always a team game. But often in the regular season, we are enthralled by the McFancy players and fancier stats.
It really does seem that one either builds a team for regular season glory or for relentless, mistake-free, puck-hounding gritty ugly winning Cup hockey.
At least the Nucks have opted for neither of these paths. We can be grateful the Nucks have devoted their hundreds of millions on management and players towards mastering the middle path. Neither too good or too bad. Buddha hockey at its most middling.
Kent- I said it before and I will say it again: This is a deal-breaker for me. I don't care how effective he can be as a fourth liner, and would like sign a very team-friendly deal. Some things cannot be forgiven, and considering his comments just a few months ago re: Chara's insane allegations about the Canucks 'practicing' raising the Cup in 2011, he can fuck all the way off. And if this organization has so little self-respect and integrity that they can give him a pass, and not see that this is Messier 2.0, they can fuck off too. I will not cheer for a Canucks team that has Milan Lucic in the lineup. End of story.
Beggsy - I could get over the 2011 bit if Lucic could still play, but he can't. If there was an award for slowest NHL skater this season, he probably would have won.
Markus - I am pro bringing in sandpaper that can play. Play being the key word there, as Milan Lucic cannot. Just get some cheap tweeter like they did with Dakota Joshua, or bring in an actual star in the Tkachuk vein. None of this Benning-style $4 million, mid-tier grit, please and thank you.
5- With the IIHF Men's World Championships about to get underway in Latvia and Finland: Do you watch events like this? Do they matter to you as a hockey fan?
Westy - No and No. But I am a fickle Canucks fan and I get frustrated watching Myers play for Canada as well. I would be happy just watching pros in the Olympics or the World Cup of hockey.
jimmi - Thanks for the heads up, Kent. Will check it out. I like leftovers, cold pizza especially. Leftover hockey might be tasty as well. [--- long pause ---] It's on TSN. That's a little too leftover for me.
At least I can definitely predict that the Russians won't get gold. Or silver. Or bronze. At least I'll get that prediction correct.
Kent- Full disclosure: I put this question in just because I knew it would annoy Westy. Me? I've always liked watching the Worlds. Maybe it's because the Canucks have been so consistently awful that there's always guys on the squad they send over. Maybe it's a throwback to 1972, and there's just something about watching Team Canada, any Team Canada, going for gold. And yes, I know Milan Lucic is on this year's squad, but I can cheer for them in spite of that because it's not the same situation. Tyler Myers and Ethan Bear are representing the Canucks, and say what you want about Myers, but I have respect for anyone who answers the call to rep this country on the world stage. I do notice that a certain former captain isn't there. And I refuse to believe they didn't reach out to him after the Isles got turfed. So yes, I will be watching. Go Canada Go.
Beggsy - I'll be sure to tune into the 40-minute mark of Sportscentre to catch the highlights, right after highlights of the World Lawn Bowling Championships.
Markus - The world championships have started? Huh. Ok.
