National Hockey League Playoffs 2019 -

Well, it's that time of year again where we whittle down the remaining playoff teams to we get one night were hockey fans relentlessly boo Commissioner Bettman and envy the captain awarded the Stanley Cup.
Last year, I stopped doing the playoff beard, it resulted in the hometown team and 2x defending Stanley Cup winners losing in the second round. Sure enough, I think I need to do it again this year. IT WORKED!
In 2019 we have a bunch of teams that have never won the Stanley Cup versus a few teams that have won it in the past looking to build on a dynasty (like 80s Oilers and Islanders). It took a little more time for a couple of teams that have been trying for years to put the right combination of players together. Which team is built to go the long haul of 16 more wins and hoisting the Cup (and a future banner)? We'll examine which teams are likely to move on to the next round.
Western Conference

Nashville v. Dallas
Could this be the year of the Nashville Predators? "Smashville" as they are marketed as, don't have very many famous names on the roster (other than P.K. Subban). They are a defensive juggernaut where Pekka Rinne is the stalwart goaltender. I predict they will stop the Dallas Stars run into hockey relevance. It's been a while since we've seen the Dallas Stars in the post season. Even with a few appearances (2), the Dallas Stars have been post-seasonally struggling since 2007-08.
Prediction: Predators in 6

St. Louis v. Winnipeg
Is THIS the year that the St. Louis Blues finally make a run to the Stanley Cup finals? They are the Chicago Cubs of the NHL and the lovable losers. They seem to have stuck with this generation of players. From O'Rielly, Tarasenko, Peron, and Schenn and their goaltender Jake Allen. I don't know how the new "Finnish Flash" Patrik Laine will have an answer for all the experience. Outside of Little and Byfuglien, I don't see them holding off this kind of a challenge. It was just another unfortunate bad match-up for them. And once the Jets make the first run exit, look for Coach Maurice's firing.
Prediction: Blues in 5

Colorado v. Calgary
Who knew that the Colorado Avalanche were so good? They were the quiet team that hung in there and clawed their way overtop their Western rivals Ducks, Kings, BlackHawks. Look for McKinnon, Rantanen, and captain Landeskog to get more experience together in the playoffs and learn to win like so many other teams have grown into their playoff potentials. Calgary is another team that is in the trial and error period of gathering together a corps of young talent in the draft and pairing it with the right players to support them. Look for Giordano, Monahan, and Gaudreau to put it together and play well throughout the playoffs.
Prediction: Flames in 6

Vegas vs San Jose
The Vegas Golden Knights and their fans have never known what it's like to not be in the Playoffs. From their historical 1st run to today, they are certainly a force to be reckoned with. They will surely rival the "Shark tank" in Northern California as far as over-hyping of expectations. The Sharks were in the finals the year before Vegas and they know the grind is real. This might be the "leave it all on the table" before they have to tear it down for a major rebuilding process. Burns and Thorton and Pavelski are in their twilight years. Send them off with respect!

Prediction: Vegas in 6

Eastern Conference

Tampa Bay v. Columbus
The curse of the President's Trophy rests on the broad shoulders of the Tampa Bay Lightning. They've built their franchise from the doldrums of expansion teams to one of the best teams as a perennial playoff performer. You can thank the Columbus Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella for that. He raised the franchise's first Stanley Cup in 2004. They have come close a few more times since then, but it may very well be the last hurrah for Steven Stamkos as a number of injuries have stalled his career. Look for Tampa Bay to hand the baton of leadership to Kucherov, Hedman, and Point. I'm sorry for the Columbus Blue Jackets yet again finding a bad matchup opening round opponent. Unless the Blue Jackets play a defense-first strategy, I don't see them outscoring.
Prediction: Tampa Bay in 5

Toronto v. Boston
It always seems to be the bane of the Leaf Nation existence that they always run into the Boston Bruins. I can tell you that they are STILL not over the playoff collapses to the Bruins in recent years. So, it's been a trial and error to build a championship caliber team. The addition of "pajama boy" John Tavares, an Toronto area resident. While the Bruins have refreshed their roster of support pieces since they last met, Marchand and Bergeron, Rask, Chara, Krejci are all still there and know how to shut down the Maple Leafs attack. But is this the year that Toronto overcomes their "El Guapo"? All of those players are another year older and Toronto has the young fresh legs. Look for Marner, Matthews, and Tavares to start their first chapter in a long career of playoff game heroism.

Prediction: Toronto in 7

Carolina v. Washington
Out of a renewed storm of interest in the hockey team, these "bunch of jerks" are facing the defending Stanley Cup champions. The "Ovi-train" Alex Ovechkin is going to be the "russian machine never breaks". I really don't have much to say here for this prediction other than I don't give much of a chance to the Hurricanes this year. The Capitals are still the strong team they always were the whole season, but this time, they have the defending championship pressures and fans with even higher expectations.

Prediction: Capitals in 4

Pittsburgh v. NY Islanders
The Penguins have been a streaky team this year, but when their backs are up against the wall, they find a way to come through in the clutch. Draw penalties, cycle in their offensive zone, and supporting their goalies with blocked shots. Those will be the key to victory. Malkin has been abused all year physically, but reached the milestone of 1,000 points in his career. He's already on record by hoping that he faces the Blues in the playoffs. The Islanders have found a very good defensive first system having hired Coach Trotz who figured them out as the Capitals coach. Look for a really really really crazy crowd on Long Island.

Prediction: Penguins in 7

2016 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 3

I don't know if the Penguins are considered to be as a "shocking upset", but they did seem to upset a lot of Capitals fans and mainstream media personalities as well. It's amazing what the Penguins have been doing, because it's been without their top two stars. Crosby is 3g and 7a for 10p in 11 games played. Malkin is 3g and 6a for 9p in 10 games played. This is not going to get either of these players Conn Smythe considerations for playoff MVP. I don't think this is sustainable now that they've gone this deep into the tournament. We here are going to wait and see how the team adjusts to the next challenge.

As for the San Jose Sharks, It's Stanley Cup or bust with them. Their beards can't get any bigger than they are - or can they? Their elder statesmen have to ride off together because if they don't, then surely they are going to reconstruct the roster without them.

The excitement must be really huge in Southern California this year as well as the possibility of Blues fans seeing a Finals appearance in 49 years.

Let's break it down a little further below:


Western Conference


St. Louis v. San Jose
St. Louis now got it in their heads that they can be world beaters and fight off the best teams in the NHL. The Blues haven't been to the Stanley Cup finals, but they've gotten to the Conference finals back in the Gretzky days. I'd expect to see a real tired group of players with the Sharks and Blues to play a slow prodding Game 1. They've extended their playoff games to playing 14 games already. They're beat up. Both of them. I'd give the edge in goaltending with the Blues. Allen and Elliot are a great tandem, but just makes the old truism still relevant: "Having two starting goaltenders means you 'aint got one". Look for Thornton and Pavelski to cram a few goals out through their sheer force of beard will. I'm rooting for Jaden Schwartz to get to the finals considering all he has gone through.

Prediction: Blues in 5


Eastern Conference


Pittsburgh v. Tampa Bay

I'd say that the Lightning team is only the second team that truly threatens to derail the Pittsburgh Penguins hot playoff run. Matt Murray has been playing above his pay grade for months now in Fleury's absence. They've created somewhat of a controversy, but Coach Richards has indicated that he's going to go with the "hot hand". But then, when will Fleury get a chance knowing full well he's their number one guy and having not been in a game for months is not good. He could be very rusty the next time they need him. Tampa's goalie doesn't have this problem. Bishop is 8-2 with a .938 GAA. Look for Drouin to extend his desire to be the "next one" in Tampa. He wants to be treated like a franchise player, so NOW is the time to show it. I don't think the 'Bolts have the kind of depth that the Penguins have in Defense. Victor Hedman is their true #1, but other than that, they've got average NHL talent there. The Penguins will move the puck out of the zone quicker with Maatta, Letang, and Daley.

Prediction: Penguins in 6

2016 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 2

Thank you, St. Louis Blues, for ruining my Stanley Cup predictions bracket for the second year in a row! Last year, I'd thought that it was finally going to be the Blues' year to get over the playoff hump and contend for further play. I'd even advised others on the Blues potential with the confidence of selecting them in my playoff brackets. They "screwed" me. This year, I was determined not to be fooled again by the Blues' chances. Thanks for the bittersweet job you did against the Hawks in the first round and eliminating them. So to the second round, we all go with plenty of new faces to talk about. Will there be a "shocking upset" in this round?


Western Conference


St. Louis v. Dallas
St. Louis is certainly playing inspired hockey as they've just taken down a perennial Cup contender in the Hawks. I was really glad to see that Jaden Schwartz has a point-per-game pace with 7 points in the playoffs. His late sister would've been proud of him, I'm sure. But the Stars are on a real resurgence behind their captain Benn. Look for him to add to his scoring totals. But in the end, I think the Blues goaltender Allen will hold up his part of the bargain and keep them in most all games this series.

Prediction: Blues in 5

Nashville v. San Jose
Here's another series with two more teams that can't seem to move on and underachieve in the playoffs. This might be the last ride for the Sharks as currently constructed. Their aging vets Thorton, Pavelski, and Marleau are plodding along with fan favorite Brent Burns and all his woolly hair are making their mark on the NHL leader boards so far. As for Nashville, their success rides on their goalie Pekka Rinne. But beyond Weber and Neal, I don't think they have enough depth to survive another series with a team that desperately wants to win.

Prediction: Sharks in 6



Eastern Conference


New York Islanders v. Tampa Bay
This is going to be a really interesting series with these two teams. Even though I was leaning towards an upset from the Panthers, the now veteran Islanders will have to continue their good luck with the Lightning team that's the defending Conference champs. I expect Ben Bishop to earn more respect with his recent Vezina trophy nomination. Also, the 'Bolts young star Drouin has to earn his playing time and prove to the owners that he belongs on the ice at the major league level. Tavares needs this win big if he is going to earn elite superstar status that was once expected of him.

Prediction: Lightning in 6

Washington v. Pittsburgh
The mainstream media have already picked sides and promote their agendas to get further attention to this playoff series. It's at least prevalent to me in both US and Canadian broadcasts. But there's also an underpinning of regret that this series isn't for the Stanley Cup because of the unpopular changes proposed to the playoff seeding years ago suggesting that the Conference finals could be wiped out. They just had to get around the fact that Ovechkin and Crosby compete in the same division/conference. I believe with time to heal on the first round and time to re-align the linemates for this series, the Penguins can run all over the Capitals. Look for Fleury to return in net at some point during the series.

Prediction: Penguins in 7

Hockey Fanatic Awards 2015

The Confessions of a Hockey Fanatic invented it's own Awards system on the hopes that it could be seen as an alternative to the NHL Awards since they always seem to get things wrong. The NHL Awards Show were on tonight with comedian Bob Riggle as the host. Critics of the show through social media suggested that it wasn't a carefully thought out show as the bigger news actually happened before the show began. So, without hacky Vegas stand-up jokes, here are who COHF wants honored this year.

Note: Despite the NHL not regarding playoff performances in their awards, the COHF blog does.

Most Valuable Rookie: Johnny Gaudreau

He was the most stand-out Rookie this year and even got the nickname "Johnny Hockey". His meteoric rise to the top of his class and seemingly a fixture into the hockey highlights on just about ANY network should have earned himself an award for becoming what the Flames needed to turn around the franchise for the future.

Most Valuable Player: Jonathan Towes

With another Stanley Cup held over his head, he was truly a force the entire year as the BlackHawks Captain. He didn't get within the top three in scoring, but his team consistently won all the way though the whole season. I think the choice is obvious here.

Most Valuable Coach: Jon Cooper

He "shocked" the world (no pun intended) with bringing the Cinderella team Tampa Bay Lightning to the Stanley Cup finals. With a few unforeseen injuries, the Lightning are a young team trying to build around Stamkos.

Most Valuable Defenseman: Erik Karlsson

Despite some up and down inconsistent play as a team this year, the Ottawa Senators captain had the most points and was second in goals this season. As long as he continues to put up the scoring stats, he could have another long career as a blueliner in Canada's capital.


Most Valuable Goalie: Carey Price

This is the one instance that the NHL and COHF agree that Price was the best choice for this award. He not only dominated on the stats column, but he also scored very well in the CORSI type new age statistics. You can also look up a lot of highlights from him this year as he's made plenty of key saves that people still talk about even after the season is over.

Most Valuable NHL Slovak player: Tomas Tatar

This Slovak had the most goals in the NHL season most often paired with fellow Slovak Tomas Jurco.

Most Valuable Teammate Tandem: Kyle Okposo and Jon Tavares

These two NY Islanders were really in the grove all season long and got themselves back into the playoffs. They were a dangerous tandem to start the year, but I would have to project the stats due to Okposo getting injured.

Most Valuable General Manager: David Poile

The Nashville Predators have turned a corner and in their history went for a more balanced attack. Poile is re-designing the team away from what they've always known to be. He hired their franchise's second head coach and acquired a lot of talent through the draft an found some way to keep Weber as captain of the team.

Most Valuable Ice Girls: Colorado Avalanche Ice Girls

Mainly because they look like they worked very hard this year scraping the ice and still looking good doing it. Since the NHL no longer allowed for the Zamboni in OT, every crew hand was more valuable.

Most Valuable Fanbase: Chicago BlackHawks

This wasn't easy to pick. There were several other teams that could have been mentioned here. However, witnessing the pandemonium and the amount of fervor that is surrounding the team all through the season as well as the championship parade, the Hawks are back to being a real force driving interests to one of the biggest hockey markets in the US.

Can-Am Award (presented in recognition to a blogger or fan who have contributed positively to Canadian and American fan relations): TBA.

2015 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 2

So, already, my bracket is busted considering I thought that this was going to be St. Louis' year. I don't know what the Blues have to do with their roster to get over the hump and finally be in Cup contention. I had them going to the finals. Perhaps, they need to find an elite goaltender.

And for my hometown Penguins, it's quite an additional frustration to a team that had high expectations given that they have some of the best talent in the NHL. There is no excuses, but the consensus was that the injuries and lack of depth at the wing positions really hurt them.

So let's look at who's left in the NHL in their quest for hockey's greatest prize.

Western Conference


Anaheim v. Calgary

Calgary is an amazing Cinderella story - in Canada. I don't think anyone else quite cares about the Flames who've been flaming out for the past 7 years. But with the right match up, they can sure surprise people. "Johnny Hockey" Gaudreau needs to step up and grow to the next level of development. Anaheim Ducks are on a tear and looking like they are the biggest team in the West. They've swept the Jets. Now look for them to do the same to the Flames. But they could drop a game if the Flames get lucky. Look for the Getzlaf/Perry tandem to score goals.
Prediction: Ducks in 6


Chicago v. Minnesota

Chicago's veterans have to be getting tired eventually, right? The amount of games they play in one year is phenomenal. But it took a goalie controversy to find them back on track. Who goes for the second series? Crawford may have to be reaching his limits. But the Wild's Devan Dubnyk is the man their team has confidence in. They'll go as far in the tourney as he'll take them. But they also have a fantastic powerplay scoring at near 30%.

Prediction: Blackhawks in 5


Eastern Conference


Montreal v. Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is the team that just doesn't say "die". They are the plucky team in the East conference that are fighting as underdogs to move on to round 2. Look for Tyler Johnson to take over the scoring for the bigger stars that seem to be slumping. Everyone is asking why Stamkos isn't scoring and shut out points wise. Perhaps the speculation would lean towards an injury? Montreal is looking really strong and got away with a few controversial moments. I was really appalled at the Subban ax chop that resulted in a game misconduct. Look for Price to be right again.
Prediction: Habs in 7


NY Rangers v. Washington

The Rangers are quietly struggling as the top NHL team from the regular season. Scoring is down or seemingly at a premium. Rick Nash has 1 assist coming out of the Pens series. Ovechkin for the Capitals is really soaring and enjoying a resurgence in his playoff career. Look for him to put a few more in past King Henrik. But eventually, I think the Rangers should wake up and expose the inexperience of the Capitals' goaltenders.
Prediction: Rangers in 6

2015 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 1

This season the NHL has shown that the league is creeping even closer to their competitive balance goals - which can be a podcast or vlog topic for another day. There were 3 open playoff berths still available on the last day (day 82) of the regular season. I was reading on twitter that there were a little "hater" grumblings that suggested that certain teams squeaked in for ratings and popularity. But regardless of how or when they got in, hopefully each team appreciates their chance for hockey's greatest prize. Lets take a look at round one and hope that the quality of hockey continues to ramp up.




Western Conference

Anaheim v.Winnipeg
Winnipeg makes their return to the NHL playoffs for the first time since leaving. And that was 20 years ago. The keys to this matchup is weather the Jets acquired enough players with playoff experience. Dustin "Buff" and Andrew Ladd are the Jets with the most achievements, but eyes will also be on Myers and Stafford to see if their acquisitions were worth it. Anaheim, despite their goaltending lack of depth, have made it to the top spot on the Western conference. Look for Kestler, Perry, and Getzlaf to have the deeper pool of playoff experience.
Prediction: Ducks in 6

St. Louis v. Minnesota
Minnesota's struggles throughout the middle of the season may have made them a better team now. They went on a really incredible run with the trade deadline acquisition of Devan Dubnyk. But this might be the year that St. Louis gets it together and makes a deep run through the west. They are the gateway after all! Look for Tarasenko to be the big hero and supporting with Oshie.
Prediction: Blues in 5

Vancouver v. Calgary
Calgary Flames have been this anomalous team that went from being one of the worst (statistically) to one of the more respectable and competitive teams in playoff contention. They were a quiet team, but notably they have "Johnny Hockey" Gaudreau to continue on his young career. Vancouver's window from their Finals success is quickly closing as the roster is turning. Ryan Miller may not be strong enough to carry them past the first round having been injured most of the season.
Prediction: Flames in 6

Nashville vs Chicago
The Predators have the worst luck in the history of the NHL to always get ousted by stronger teams in the first round. It took them the realization to move on and find a more balanced scoring attack with an offensive minded coach. Laviolette has his name on the Cup and will know how to take the Predators over the hump. Chicago is just a juggernaut encased in a powerhouse wrapped in a barrage. But this might be the year that the core players will start to show some serious wear and tear having played so many more games than the rest of the league.
Prediction: Predators in7

Eastern Conference

Montreal v. Ottawa
The Canadians have the most to prove to their fans and the biggest disappointment to their fans if they fail. Carey Price is playing like he wants to be the first Hart and Vezina trophy winner in the same year since Jose Theodore in 02. There could be a lot of hardware handed out to other players at the end of the season. But Ottawa is the fighting chippy never say die teams that could surprise people.
Prediction: Habs in 5

Detroit v. Tampa Bay
The story here is having one of the most revered players in Detroit's recent history as the GM for the opposing team. Has Stevey Y's Tampa Bay team developed into a deep playoff contender? Ben Bishop is a giant among men in goal and may stand tall for the entire series. But as you know that the Red Wings have been built to be in the playoffs for 24 straight years.
Prediction: Bolts in 6

NY Islanders v. Washington
The Islanders are celebrating their last year on the Island with a playoff appearance that marks the first payoff for the rebuilding years. Captain John Tavares has a great crew built around him and they've played with each other and developed next to one another in the minors. Look for Isles goalie Halak to be motivated for revenge against his former teammates. The Capitals have Ovechkin and his scoring skills to carry them through the next round. They've finally figured out the balance between forwards and defensemen on their roster. Orpik and Niskanen were great pick-ups in Free Agency. And Joel Ward will somehow be a game hero once more during the playoffs.
Prediction: Capitals in 5

Pittsburgh v. NY Rangers
The New York Rangers are this year's Presidents trophy winners and carry with them that curse. Could they be too overconfident? Crosby and Malkin know how to get to the promised land but have been playing hurt the past few years. They can't get any scoring consistency or linemates. It took them several tries to get into the post season. But this year, they might go out ready to heal up for a better run in next season. Every Pens fan I talk to have no hope for them.
Prediction: Rangers in 4

Confessions of a Hockey Fanatic Takes on NHL Deadline Day 2014

What always feels like a great big national holiday, the NHL trade deadline is met with a lot of hype and anticipation from every hockey fan in North America. Any trade could make or break a team. In my opinion, the cascading result is going to focus onto some of the teams that are on the bubble (just out of the playoffs looking for a boost back in the playoff hunt). Toronto, Detroit, Minnesota, Dallas,.. I'm looking to each team to make a blockbuster deal at the 3pm.

As Penguins fans now know through learning the hard way, the way to build a championship team is through avoiding messing with team chemistry. They have been mentioned a couple of times linked with several

Let's take a look at the trades that have led up to this trading deadline thus far:

To the Florida Panthers goes goaltender Roberto Luongo (aka "strombone" for his twitter handle) for young prospect Markstrom.

To the St. Louis Blues goaltender Ryan Miller and Steve Ott for goaltender Jaro Halak and...

NHL Entry Draft 2013 Recap

Credit: NHL

Hosting the National Hockey League has become the try-outs to give the best impressions on the NHL selection committee to host a future All-Star game. But the marvelous weekend that has become the NHL Player Entry draft has become an event in and of itself. I've seen it first hand when it was here in Pittsburgh. The Prudential Center, in downtown Newark, NJ, had the unique flavor of the Devils fans and Jersey experience. They had a giant cake effigy of Martin Brodeur.

TSN took care of all the footage as the NBCSN in America just syndicated their feed. Why bother having it on NBC if they're just going to have someone else's talent on it?

Leading up to the draft, the Colorado Avalanche had time to think about the new direction they were going. They had a new front office with Avs legends Sakic and Roy. Were they going to make the new #1 selection by keeping it in the state by selecting Seth Jones knowing he would want to be an Avalanche. When the Avs won the earlier draft lottery, many fans felt as if the draft was fixed in the Jones' family's favor. But as the draft start time crept near, it was learned that Sakic and the gang actually coveted another prospect.
Nathan MacKinnon, of the Halifax Mooseheads and recent hero of the Memorial Cup, is a tall centerman that looks to be in the same Joe Sakic style. But instead of comparisons to the legacy hall of fame center, MacKinnon was immediately compared to Sid Crosby because he comes from the same Cole Harbor and studied at Shattuck-St. Mary's prep in Minnesota (much to the ire of many Crosby-haters in attendance.)

Listening to the TSN analysts in shock and disappointment believing that their #1 Seth Jones was passed over not once, but three times - finally going 4th overall to the Nashville Predators. His dad, Popeye Jones, was born and raised in Tennessee - so at least the family can show poetic justice.

Here is how the first 5 picks in the draft went:

1. Nathan MaKinnon - Avalanche
2. Aleksander Barkov - Panthers
3. Jonathan Drouin - Lightning
4. Seth Jones - Predators
5. Elias Lindholm - Hurricanes

How many former Stanley Cups champions are among those teams? I count 4. It just goes to show you that the League can get cyclical.

There were some trades that went on, but not quite enough as to what was expected in preparation to the July 5th FA Frenzy. But the biggest shocking deal made on the draft floor was felt like the spur-of-the-moment decision to send hot prospect goaltender Cory Schneider to the host New Jersey Devils. Cory Schneider, was one of the goaltenders involved in the Vancouver Canuck goalie controversy where Roberto Luongo and his long term expensive contract wore out his welcome.

Cal Clutterbuck, a Minnesota Wild favorite, was dealt to the New York Islanders for Neno Niederreter. I'd call this a very fair deal. What do you think?

My hometown Penguins traded Tyler Kennedy to the San Jose Sharks to move up to the second round where they previously had no selection.

Lastly, the Toronto Maple Leafs picked up the Chicago Blackhawks intimidating center and Stanley Cup hero Dave Bolland.

In a final note, the NHL decided that it would be fitting that one of the last picks in the draft, Marty Brodeur in host team city New Jersey can draft his son to the New Jersey Devils. It's charming on one side, but nepotism on the other. What would an undrafted player say that Brodeur's son got taken over him?

COHF Takes on NHL Trade Deadline Day 2013

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NHL Lockout 2012: Against Popular Opinions

The fan's anxiety of the current NHL lockout has been hysterical as if it were judged by the internet blogisphere. One would think that the universe were collapsing and the Mayans were right after all. It wasn't all that long ago, that the same issues brought on by the owner's previous lockout, were all hopefully taken care of now that the salary cap and other financial rules were put into place. The fans and players are told now that it isn't so. The financial model of the league is still "broken". Therefore, the League's owners choose to sit out and wait until they can plan for all contingencies.

So far, this lockout has divided some fans and Gary Bettman's reputation has fallen further (as evident by the radical outspoken fans). But before you view the NHL commissioner and collective owners as callous, here is a list of reasons why I am taking the owners side in lockout 2012 and you should also.

1. I am a non-conformist when it comes to populism. I see the hate and piling on Bettman and I think it's outrageously cruel. He's had so many pictures of him making him look foolish, but there is no real substance or solution offered by those fans. They just demonize Comish Bettman. It's a childish immature response.
   
2. To quote James Carville: "It's the economy, stupid". There are people out there who will never see a million dollars. For the players to trot out the "I'm starving" when they have more than what they need just to play a trivial game is a slap in the face to people who can barely make ends meet and have to save up to even buy one overpriced ticket.
   
3. Donald Fehr. He was instrumental in baseball for making sure that we have irreversible competitive non parity in MLB.
   
4. NHLPA hypocrisy. As reported by Yahoo! Sports Hockey, The players union meet in "New York Marriott Marquis, a non-union hotel, as the Fortune Limousine service idles outside. A black SUV displays an NHLPA sign and this license plate: "FORTUNE1."
   
5. If it's evident to me that they can't respect each other on the ice with constant intent-to-injure hits, why should I believe they are so arm-in-arm in brotherhood now?

So, that's the way I see things. NHLPA does not get my sympathy.

Hockey Fanatic Awards 2012

The NHL Awards are tonight and based on previous years results they will most likely get things wrong AGAIN!. Here are my alternative picks to those honors and showing you my selections for the individual and team performance Awards this year. I also took into consideration the entire hockey season from October until June.


Most Valuable Rookie: Adam Henrique of the New Jersey Devils.Of all the rookies worth mentioning this year, Henrique took the Devils through the Stanley Cup playoffs to the eventual Eastern Conference represenatives in the final.

Most Valuable Player: Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins

He came through clutch during the season and provided his big shoulders to cary his high profile team through the season.

Most Valuable Coach: Ken Hitchcock. of the St. Louis Blues.

Was there any doubt that Ken was the best coach to turn a Blues team from potentially being a disasterous season to top of the Western Conference in less than a year.

Most Valuable Defenseman: Shea Weber of the Nashville Predators

For the second year in a row, he wins an award not only for being talked about as the next premier blueliner, but for standing out on a Predators team that is on the brink of becoming a premier western conference franchise.

Most Valuable Goalie: Johnathan Quick of the Los Angeles Kings

He did his best to maintain a playoff pace for the Kings who seemed to cool off at the end of the regular season, to once again regain en fuego momentum and win the Stanley Cup.

Most Valuable NHL Slovak player: Marian Gaborik of the New York Rangers

Just edging out Hossa for this recognition, Gaborik got his Rangers team farther in the playoffs and played in all 82 games.

Most Valuable Teammate Tandem: Jeff Carter and Mike Richards of the Los Angeles Kings

Originally separated at the begining of the season, they both got to re-unite in the city of Angels and stick it to the Flyers who traded them in the previous off-season by winning the Stanley Cup.

Comeback Player of the Year: Matt Cooke

Ostrasized and made to be the poster boy for all things wrong with agressive hockey play, Matt turned things around and did his best to stay out of the penalty box and redeem his villain reputation.

Most Valuable General Manager: David Poile of the Nashville Predators and Dale Tallon of the Florida Panthers

With a smart gutsy move to bring Radulov over from the KHL to fufill the player's obligation and making a few more shrewd moves at the deadline makes Poile a smart guy.

Tallon took his magic from Chicago to Florida who made the playoffs in his second year at the helm. He acquired many new players to rebuild the deflated franchise.

Most Valuable Ice Girls: Nashville Predators Ice Girls

All I needed to do was view this picture and declare them the winners.

Most Valuable Fanbase: Pittsburgh Penguins franshise.

Even though I'm biased here counting myself in the category, I've been so impressed by how much the Penguins fans voracious support of the team has gotten over the last few years. They've gotten two former NHL players to admit the strength and influence online.

Can-Am Award presented in recognition to bloggers or fans who have contributed positively to Canadian and American fan relations: (watch for youtube video posted later today)

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 4

The two most unlikely of competitors in this year's Stanley Cup has brought us an intriguing pairing of two coastal cities and two of the largest media markets in the United States. Could this be a platform to which the NHL gains more mainstream popularity? It helps that the two largest markets will be involved, but only 1 team has been to the finals recently. The last time the L.A. Kings were in the finals it was 1993. Wayne Gretzky, Luc Robitaille and Barry Melrose were bringing Los Angeles it's first taste of winning hockey. But after the Kings were thumped out by the Canadians, it took a patient team to rebuild. Now that hockey is good again in the Southern California area, what direction will the NHL take next season?


Los Angeles v. New Jersey

The two most unlikely of competitors in this year's Stanley Cup. One team is on the rise and one might be in it's twilight looking for a reshuffling underneath the leagues' salary cap. The Kings were lucky to have made the playoffs as the 8th seed. But from there, they rode a hot goaltender Jonathan Quick to a historic record eliminating the 1st 2nd and 3rd ranked teams in 1 playoff season. But as I look over Los Angeles' roster, they've gathered a lot of players who have failed in the final rounds. Jeff Carter and Mike Richards were reunited as a pair of front line forwards, but they know the feeling of choking when it counts. The New Jersey Devils have been recent winners in 2003 against the Ducks. Marty Brodeur may consider this his final run in a career. Of course, the Devils team has had a few players stick around from their 2003 team that remembers how to win a Stanley Cup series. Starting with Patrick Elias as the leader of this current Devils squad.

I'm going out on a limb here. It's the irresistible force (Kings) versus the immovable object (Devils).

Prediction: Los Angeles in 6

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 1

It's time for the NHL's second season, where those who survived now fight it out to play more hockey. It's a real "twilight zone" type of scenario with several teams sitting with home ice advantage, but their opponents have better point totals. Florida and Phoenix have shocked the hockey elitists by making it this far. Can they go farther? Only they can answer that.

Here's my annual tradition of delivering my encapsulated features of this years playoff matchups.

Western Conference

Vancouver v. Los Angeles

Vancouver is going into the playoffs once again saddled with the pressures of being the sole hope of ever bringing back the Stanley Cup to Canadian soil as well as the "curse" of the Presidents Trophy. If things get shaky with Luongo again, they have Cory Schneider to fall back on. Los Angeles was looking good for a while, but wound up drawing the just short of being eliminated from playoff contention. Look for Richards and Carter to make LA competitive, but in the end, it's Vancouver with the experience.

Prediction: Vancouver in 6

St. Louis vs San Jose


Prediction: San Jose in 6

Chicago vs. Phoenix
You wouldn't believe me if I told you that the Phoenix Coyotes have the division championship as the home ice advantage over the Chicago BlackHawks. Goaltender Mike Smith is really doing well this year and could possibly earn himself an MVP nomination. Look for him to steal a few games. Chicago's powerplay hasn't been all that great and if captain Toews isn't 100%, the Hawks are in trouble. It shouldn't be an upset, but maybe the Coyotes have something to prove.
Prediction: Phoenix in 5

Detroit vs Nashville

It seems every year, the way to the second round always runs through rival Detroit for the Predators. But before this looks like deja vu all over again for the Preds, this year they have the home ice advantage. The Wings scored a whole new home winning streak, so, it's best for the Preds to use their own home ice (aka "Smashville") to good use. Detroit is always a solid playoff team but due to their inconsistent goaltending woes... it just might be their weak link. Look for them to take the early exit this year.
Prediction: Nashville in 7

Eastern Conference

Ottawa v. N.Y. Rangers

This match-up is a possible short one with most experts who won't deny that the Ottawa Senators are overachievers. They were expected to rebuild and contend for a lottery draft pick, but instead, they perform admirably and earn a playoff berth. Look for Tortorella to stay silent this round and wait for the next round to be more vocal. Gaborik and Richards should lead the playoff scoring race once this series is done.

Prediction: NY Rangers in 4

Boston v. Washington

Washington Capitals were on the verge of not making the playoffs and the chaotic situation with the coaching staff may still come into play. Look for Ovechkin to get his goals, but Boston knows how to out muscle their opponents. Boston is the defending world champions and they know how to play like they are. Look for Tim Thomas to hold the Capitals under control.
Prediction: Boston in 5

Florida v. New Jersey

Another one of those head scratching mysteries where the perennial doormat of the NHL is suddenly a divisional champ and facing a tougher reputable team. I don't know if Brodeur has enough left in the tank, but I've certainly been wrong about him before. Look for Kovalchuk and company to keep up with the high scoring. Florida's quick turn around is all due to their GM who built the Chicago cup team two years ago. They'll be back next year. Let this playoff experience be exactly that - experience.
Prediction: New Jersey in 5

Pittsburgh v. Philadelphia

The Battle of Pennsylvania rages on once more through the playoffs as the most amazing hockey rivalry writes another chapter into their history. Crosby and Malkin are set to prove their haters wrong once again. Philadelphia is a revamped team that may have all their ducks in a row - with a few more familiar faces to Pittsburgh fans. Look for Brayden Shenn to stand out, but when the Flyers become their own worst enemy and start piling on the penalty minutes, look for Pittsburgh's power play to pick them apart.
Prediction: Pittsburgh in 6

Live Broadcast from BlogTV - NHL 2012 Trade Deadline

Check out the chat screen live here on Confessions of a Hockey Fanatic as I talk about the pending trades and those made at the deadline today. Please send in your questions at the blogtv.com website or check out the rumormethis website and live chat.
HockeyKnight- Broadcast your self LIVEHere is the live chat with real-time chatroom features about all the trade deadline deals.
Leave a comment in the comment box or wherever appropriate!

Winnipeg Jets Reveal Jersey for 2011-12 season

Photo: Tumblr.com

I'm glad that the NHL's new Winnepeg Jets decided to hold a press conference and release the official look to the jerseys they are going to use during the upcoming season. I like them!

The jerseys are Reebok EDGE performance cut so, I know right away I'm never going to own one. But as far as the look itself, I think it's a very updated look for a team shedding an identity to a team that is looking for support from patriotic mid-western Canadian hockey fans.

The logo itself has taken on it's share of criticism. It's a sharply angled logo featuring a jet plane within a circled maple leaf. Could have some of the other teams in the league been the inspiration? The look is a classic one, trying to fit in as a Original 6 design. The light blue stripes makes the other navy blue stand out boldly while making the white part of the jersey pop as crisp as the ice surface.

Drawstrings are kind of growing on me now. I own a couple of jerseys that utilize that myself and here, it looks like it compliments the classic look they were going for.

I know some people were disappointed in it not looking anything like the Jets logos of the past. It was clearly designed with the intention of many fans going out and buying this one. Maybe they will use the Jets old jerseys in a throwback setting, but for now, I'll give this a properly themed Top Gun thumbs up salute.

The negative that I would only point out was having the press conference and releasing the image from the back of a Hercules loading dock. I can only imagine the kind of money and effort it took to make it all happen in dramatic fashion. Was a table and a few mics in front of a watermarked backdrop too pedestrian? If the team goes belly-up in 3 years, maybe it's because of shows like this.

[Via: Rogers Sportsnet]

Winnepeg Jets Logo Revealed

The new logo for the Jets was released today in anticipation for the 2011 NHL season. So far, it's been the latest talk of the hockey town in a time of the summer that the news, speculation, and trade rumors hit a slide into silence.

Below is the new design released by the True North Sports owners group as they near the new season. It looks like a real far off distancing from the previous logos of the Winnipeg Jets franchise. Even the silver in the secondary logo and script doesn't look anything like the original WHA/NHL team's predecessor. I was mostly expecting this to happen when most people who attended Jets rallies wore the throwback jerseys. This way, True North thinks people will want to start buying new jerseys in the Manitoba province.

Courtesy: True North Sports & Entertainment

As for the logo itself, I think it's a sharp militaristic design with heavy influences to both the US and Canadian air forces.They were smart to go with as much Maple Leaf presence in the logo as they could, that way it can possibly favor those Canadians outside the Winnipeg area. It's got a lot of patriotism in it's design.

On the negative side of things, it doesn't quite look like the old Jets logo at all. If you were really going to cater to the hockey fans within the Province, then tying it into the previous franchise was supposed to be a given. The first knee jerk reaction to the main logo in the circle was that it bears some resemblance to the Maple Leafs Square logo with the sharp pointed angles of the leaves.

Over all, I'd say that it will have to be seen on an actual uniform and get into action before I would warm up to it. It will be on an Rebook Edge jersey so, I won't buy it. But I am hearing whispers of rumors that the they may have a third jersey next year that looks like the Jets old logo.

[Via: Rogers Sportsnet and TSN]

Hockey Fanatic Awards 2011

The NHL Awards are tonight and based on previous years results they will most likely get things wrong AGAIN!. Here are my alternative picks to those honors and showing you my selections for the individual and team performance Awards this year. I also took into consideration the entire hockey season from October until June.


Most Valuable Rookie: Logan Couture of the San Jose Sharks

Because Skinner and Grabner could also have been very good choices, Couture's efforts were able to carry over his team into the post-season.


Most Valuable Player: Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins

If it wasn't for him, the Bruins might not have won the Cup this year.

Most Valuable Coach: Dan Bylsma of the Pittsburgh Penguins

His efforts to keep the team together despite the tragedy of losing the two best hockey players in the world for half the season.

Most Valuable Defenseman: Shea Weber of the Nashville Predators

He's the tough guy on the blueline for a team that needs something to hang their 10-gallon (37.85 liters) collective hats on.

Most Valuable Goalie: Tim Thomas

His unquestionable unorthodox style made him stand out this year and helped his team survive 3 Game 7's in the playoffs.


Most Valuable NHL Slovak player: Zedeno Chara of the Boston Bruins

This 2x award honoree is now the first and only Slovak-born captain to receive the Stanley Cup.

Most Valuable Teammate Tandem: Marty St. Louis and Steve Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning

Unlike the Sedins who ultimately disappeared when needed most, Marty and Steve consistently performed through the playoffs until the the team ran out of gas.

Comeback Player of the Year: Pavel Datsyuk

To have missed a vast majority of the season due to injury, Pavel got into stride leaving over a point per game playoff pace at 1.36 PPG.

Most Valuable General Manager: Peter Chiarelli of the Boston Bruins

He was able to finally put together a balanced Boston Bruins team at every position at the trading deadline and was rewarded with the league championship.

Most Valuable Ice Girls: Anaheim Ducks Ice Girls

Given the understanding that So-Cal provides the deepest talent pool for teams like this, the Ice Girls in Anaheim this year were the best.

Most Valuable Fanbase: Montreal Canadians fans

Simply because they inundated the police urging that assault charges be made after the hit on Max Pacioretty. That's a true dedicated and fanatical response, something all sports franchises wish they had with their respective fanbases.

Can-Am Award presented in recognition to bloggers or fans who have contributed positively to Canadian and American fan relations: Clayton "Chansler" Hansler and Steve "Dangle".

NHL Cap Gets Raised to $64 Million Dollars

When the NHL locked out it's players until the new CBA promised a fiscal responsibility and cost assurances, the salary cap was a ceiling so that the rise in players' salaries weren't exceeding the team's income.

Now, the NHL salary cap has been raised to 64 million dollars, it is far beyond the initial 39 million that was established making this year's floor salary level 48 million dollars - a precarious position to be in if an owner is without deep pockets or losing money at alarming rates.

This news is actually a double edged sword. Both good news and bad. It's great that the NHL can claim they calculate league revenues at a growing pace while keeping their NHLPA happy continually growing salaries for them. It shows the fans as well as advertising investors that the game still has room to grow. Treat it as a vote of confidence in the direction that the league is taking. And in my opinion, as long as league revenues grow, the NHLPA is less likely to want to go on strike or get locked out in the future.

But on the bad side, many teams who do not have enough revenues to cover the salary floor, can't keep up. It's League rules demand that the floor is met by all 30 teams causing an inflation of salaries among players deemed "marginal".

Weather or not this is going to be a sticking point in the next CBA agreement will no doubt be debated over the next year.  Can the players lower the NHL floor for struggling teams or will we see NHL franchises be forced to fold or move again?

[Via: Rogers Sportsnet]

National Hockey League Honored as League of the Year

The leading magazine that analyzes the business side of sporting athletics, SportsBusiness Journal and SportsBusiness Daily, has awarded the National Hockey League it's Sports League of the Year Award honor. It was announced at a special ceremony at the NY Marriott in Manhattan.

There are several factors that the NHL is doing right in comparison to the executive direction that other sports leagues have done recently.

The Award caps an amazing year for the NHL, both on and off the ice. The League leveraged its big event and digital media strategy to achieve significant revenue growth for the fourth consecutive year, breaking records in TV ratings, merchandise sales and traffic to NHL.com.

And that is really the best margin for comparison as to how healthy the leagues can produce and maintain a measurable level of fan interest as well as pop culture relevance.

The critics of the Commissioner and the League is still concerned with the ownership situation and perceived franchise locations. What is it going to take to change some minds and hearts, I don't know.


[Via: FOX News]

2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 3

The playoffs have gotten really interesting. The "sexy pick", the underdog, the usual suspects, the front runners, and the rest of the remaining ex-champions are all eliminated. This leaves 2 teams with a history of choking (or under achieving, if you so feel inclined to call it that instead) with another team from the south and Boston.

I went 50% correct on my predictions because I completely botched the Eastern Conference. I thought for sure Washington and Philadelphia would figure something out. But it only leaves more questions for struggling franchises that have premier teams. What happened to the Capitals? They didn't even put up a fight.

It's not what might make a Conference finals match-up get media traction in the States, but it's still worth examining.


Western Conference

Vancouver v. San Jose
The worst scenario for both teams came to pass and presented the result as 2 teams enter the conference finals and 1 team must leave. Both teams have been burdened with the underachieving stigma, now one of them is guaranteed to miss the Stanley Cup finals once again. Ryan Kesler is one of the top reasons why the Canucks have made it this far. I've heard critics ponder why the Canucks stopped scoring. San Jose has never had that problem. Look for Antti Niemi, who beat the Canucks last year, to figure into some success for San Jose.
Prediction: Vancouver in 5




Eastern Conference

Boston v. Tampa Bay
Boston, I believe, is the strongest team that got out of the trading deadline. They found some improvements to the Center depth vulnerability. The other key ingredient was the resurgent play of goalie Tim Thomas. The big scoring forwards of St. Louis, Lecavalier, and Stamkos are really clicking on all cylinders. The Bruins defence can catch Lightning in a bottle.
Prediction: Boston in 7