Nazem Kadri Proving Critics Wrong

It took 3 long seasons, a new General Manager and a new head coach but the Toronto Maple Leafs 7th overall pick in 2009 Nazem Kadri, has finally cracked the Leafs opening Night roster. Not only has he earned himself a spot in the top 9 forwards but 3 games in he saw himself on the first line with Phil Kessel and Tyler Bozak late in the Pittsburgh game. Since showing up at "training camp" Kadri has been on fire while wearing blue and white- from a hat-trick in the scrimmage to the first Leafs goal of 2013, the kid has turned heads.

It hasn't been an easy road for Nazem Kadri to crack the opening night roster. He took lots of criticism from former coach Ron Wilson on being to small, not being tough enough and playing poor defence. Former Leafs GM Brian Burke also had harsh words for the prospect during his tenure, claiming that Kadri was "running out of time". He's been called out for being lazy and coming to camp out of shape, some fans loved him and others wanted him shipped out-of-town for bag of pucks. Either way there has always been controversy surrounding Nazem Kadri. But to his credit he's gone down to the minors and battled hard after each setback, it appears now that all the struggle has been worth it.

Since being benched by Toronto Marlies head coach Dallas Eakins for putting up only 3 points in 9 games, everything Kadri touches turns into goals. He put up 23 points in just 18 games with the Marlies and earned himself an invite to Leafs training camp. After his success at training camp he earned himself a spot centering the 3rd line between James van Riemsdyke and Leo Komarov and the 3 of them did not disappoint in the season opener arguably the Leafs best line in the game.

One could easily make the case that Kadri has been the Leafs best player through 4 games, recording at least a point in all 4 and leading the team in points with 5. His speed and skill have been on full display and he's been the best Leaf on the ice each night. But everyone expects Kadri to be an offencive juggernaut so there are no real surprises he's making the most of his opportunites on the power play and centering the 3rd line, the real surprise is his commitment to the physical aspect.  Early in his career you wouldn't catch him the corners or laying hits and anytime a player touched him he'd go whine on the bench. In the first 4 games he's been in the corners and dirty areas of the ice, laying hits and taking big hits just fine. He's turned into the all around player the Leafs wanted him to be.

It's still early on in the season but so far Kadri has looked good- in fact he's looked fantastic. He's been one of the bright spots for the Leafs and it looks like he's finally found his game and the game required to be successful at the NHL level. His "Hockey IQ" has improved drastically making him less predictable and more of team player and he's now a more lethal weapon on the ice then ever before! Everything points to this being a breakout year for Nazem Kadri, his chance to prove he's a NHL player and not a bust. Maybe Kadri's spark may give the Leafs the jump to make the playoffs for the first since 2004.

Why the Canucks Need to Trade Roberto Luongo Now

Last season Roberto Luongo lost the starting goalie job with the Canucks to the younger Cory Schneider. Luongo was benched in the playoffs in favour of Schneider and he went to GM Mike Gillis to announce he was willing to waive his no-trade to be traded out of Vancouver. After a summer of speculation of Luongo staying in Vancouver or heading to Toronto, Luongo is still a member of the Vancouver Canucks- but not for much longer.

The Canucks are currently 2 games into their 48 game season and both Schneider and Luongo have started a game- both losing their first appearances. The Canucks have made it clear they want to move forward with Cory Schneider between the pipes and have Roberto Luongo back him up for now. But after the new number 1 netminder struggled in the opener things became a little more complicated in the Canucks goal crease. In order to smooth things over the Canucks must ship Roberto Luongo out of town as fast as they can or risk a goaltending war that will be a major distraction for the already banged up Canucks.

Sure Schneider had a rough start in the season opener, surrendering 5 goals on 14 shots and getting pulled in favour for Luongo- but it was the first game of the season after a 113 day lay-off, the Canucks defence played horribly and they're missing many key offencive weapons, you can't entirely blame Schneider! A side note for all Canucks fans freaking out about the rough start on Saturday- 12 other NHL goalies had a horrible day as well, just look at Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Quick. Schneider has proved he is more than capable of being the Canucks number one goalie with his play down the stretch and in the playoffs last season. He's going to get better as the season goes on and he'll be just fine- is it really worth ruining the kids confidence by keeping Luongo around and starting him every other game?

Not only will Schneider's play improve as the season goes on but the Canucks will as well. Right now their whole 2nd line has virtually been lost due to injury, their defence couldn't stop a peewee hockey team right now and some of the most talented goal scorers were unable to score in the shootout against the Oilers. It doesn't matter who's in net the Canucks team from opening weekend wasn't going to win either game. It's still early, players will become healthy again, Ryan Kesler will return and Schneider will bounce back.

Keeping Luongo only adds to the drama in Vancouver. When a team isn't winning the goaltender usually shoulders the most blame and having a "back-up" of Luongo's skill level only adds to the contraversy. How long till fans are chanting they want Luongo in net like they did last year for Schneider? In order to avoid chaos in the lockeroon, amongst the team and for the goaltenders, it's best if Luongo is sent packing. Sometimes having a solid goaltender as a backup pushes your starter to play his best, but in a case with Schneider and Luongo it's more of a distraction that would only hurt the the team. Luongo himself has stated it's time to move on, he wants to head somewhere and turn over a new leaf- this is now Schneider's team. Keeping Luongo around is like the Toronto Maple Leafs still allowing Brian Burke to make trades after being fired.

This is the perfect time for the Canucks to trade Luongo. It's early on in the season, he hasn't sat been sitting on the bench gathering dust and the Canucks could use some help with all the injuries. In a shortened season there's no time to get off to a slow start, with some healthier line-up the Canucks would be better off. Forcing players to play in front of 2 different goalies constantly isn't going to help chemistry and the Canucks could continue their slow start falling further behind. The Canucks made it clear Schneider is their man, keeping Luongo around as "insurance" doesn't help Schneider with his confidence and keeps controversy over the team and the goalies. It's tough enough to play in a Canadian hockey market and even tougher to be a netminder in a Canadian hockey market, why make it worse for your goalie?

The best thing for the Vancouver Canucks to do is trade Roberto Luongo as of yesterday to solidify that they are serious about moving forward with Cory Schneider between the pipes. The don't need the goalie circus to affect the team and could use the reinforcements Luongo would fetch. If the Canucks are serious about fixing their goaltending woes expect Roberto Luongo to be a member of another NHL club by the end of the week.

*Hey guys I've been nominated for a Shorty award- click this link and vote for me please! Username @Hockeylife30

NHL Opening Weekend Recap

This past weekend marked the return of NHL hockey and NHL opening weekend was absolutely beautiful. There were highlight reel goals, jaw-dropping saves and some good old fashioned fights. Rivalries were renewed not only on the ice but also on twitter after fans had been united in the battle against the lockout. Most importantly NHL opening weekend reminded fans just how great the game of hockey truly is. I must say I have missed the NHL- welcome back, welcome back.

Let's talk about the games from NHL opening weekend- which featured all 30 NHL teams. While it may be too early to start judging teams based off their first showings, it's never too early to start talking hockey!

[caption id="attachment_2111" align="aligncenter" width="580"] Jonathan Toews celebrates a goal much to the dismay of the Kings[/caption]

Chicago Blackhawks (5) vs. Los Angeles Kings (2)

• Each member of the Los Angeles Kings- who won the Stanley Cup before the lockout- were given a chance to take a 2nd lap with the coveted Stanley Cup raised above their heads. Arrogant, cocky, or deserved? you decide, but it really seemed to spark the Blackhawks.


• Patrick Kane scored a goal from such a dirty angle that nothing was clean about it. That goal was also the first tally of the 2013 NHL season.


• Jonathan Quick did not look sharp- his angles were off and he wasn't the Quick we saw throughout the Stanley Cup playoffs. But it is only the first game of the season and he is coming off back surgery- give him a week he'll be fine.


• Marian Hossa made quite the return scoring 2 goals and adding an assists after being knocked out of playoffs, literally, on a hit from Raffi Torres which left Hossa concussed.

 

[caption id="attachment_2115" align="aligncenter" width="600"] A little scrum from the game[/caption]

Pittsburgh Penguins (3) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (1)

• This was supposed to be the big ticket game on Saturday afternoon, after their intense battle in the first round of the last years playoffs but it simply didn't live up to expectations. There were a few penalties but no big fights, Claude Giroux didn't smoke Sidney Crosby, and neither Crosby nor Evgeni Malkin found the back of the net.


• Good news, both goaltenders seemed to have bounce back from their rocky playoff showings. Marc- Andre Fleury had a .963 Save Percentage and Ilya Bryzgalov had a respectable .923 and really couldn't be blamed for the Flyers loss.


• Luke Schenn made his Flyers debut but was less then stellar tipping a shot into his own goal.

Ottawa Senators (4) vs. Winnipeg Jets (1)

•  I know that the Senators put up 4 goals but this game really showcased the fact that the majority of players hadn't played since last may, this was a very sloppy game early on.


• Erik Karlsson started the year where he left off last- on fire- putting up a 3 points.

 

[caption id="attachment_2117" align="aligncenter" width="620"] Kadri opens the scoring[/caption]

Toronto Maple Leafs (2) vs. Montreal Canadiens (1)

• This was a game between two teams who will likely finish pretty low in the Eastern Conference and it showed- by most accounts a pretty boring game.


• I'm not to sure whether the Leafs actually played well or whether the Canadiens were just flat out horrible. I know it's just 1 game but it may be a long year in Montreal for Habs fans.


• Nazem Kadri had a big night scoring the first goal for the Leafs in 2013 and being arguably the best player on the ice for either team. Kadri was scoring goals and laying hits, he looked very good.


• Mike Kostka made his NHL debut and had a very successful night playing in the top defence pairing despite the majority of fans not knowing who Kostka was. But if he keeps up his strong play fans will quickly learn his name.

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. New York Islanders (1)

• Despite being 40 and having to deal with a tough shortened season, Martin Brodeur was able to pick up the win in his first game of 2013.


• New Jersey gets off on the right foot after losing Zack Parise in the offseason

 

[caption id="attachment_2120" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Lucic celebrates his goal[/caption]

Boston Bruins (3) vs. New York Rangers (1)

• Talk about lockout rust from Vezina winning goalie Henrik Lundqvist! Lundqvist did not look like the king last night, but did manage to make a huge goal-line save on a arguable call- possible save of the year candidate?


• Milan Lucic stayed true to himself scoring the Bruins first goal, taking a boarding penalty and then being kicked out of the game after chirping the Rangers bench. Good to see Lucic's new daughter hasn't affected his play on the ice.


• If there were any doubt that Tukka Rask was ready to step out of the shadows and into the limelight, those doubts were put away after he stopped 20 of 21 shots, to solidify the win for his team.

Tampa Bay Lightning (6) vs. Washington Capitals (3)

• After reaching the 60 goal plateau last season, Steven Stamkos kicked off 2013 with 2 assists.


• Rookie Cory Conacher made his NHL debut and scored a goal- not a bad debut for the kid. Look for Conacher to have a big year in Tampa being the AHL's best rookie last season.


• Alexander Ovechkin made his debut at left wing and managed to do absolutely nothing, heck he couldn't even draw a penalty properly as he was called for a dive.


• It may only be 1 game but it looks like the Lightning have the potential to challenge for a playoff spot this season.

Florida Panthers (5) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (1)

• First off, did anyone at all see this coming after the Hurricanes offseason moves?


• Another surprise the Panthers actually sold out for their home opener!


• Jordan and Eric Staal combined for 0 goals while Alex Kovalev notched a goal and added 2 assists coming up big for the Panthers, despite nobody knowing he was playing for them.


• Jose Theodore made 41 saves in the win, who said the Panthers needed Roberto Luongo?

St. Louis Blues (6) vs. Detroit Red Wings (0)

• After losing Niklas Lidstrom to retirement there were questions about the Wings defence- but I don't think anyone expected them to be that bad!


• Vladamir Tarasenko made his NHL debut and scored 2 goals, throwing his name into the mix for potential rookie of the year debate.

Columbus Blue Jackets (3) vs. Nashville Predators (2)

• The Columbus Blue Jackets won after trading franchise player Rick Nash to the New York Rangers...


• This was a surprising win for the Blue Jackets who were left with virtually a AHL team after the Nash deal- but then again it's only the first game.

[caption id="attachment_2121" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Jaromir Jagr[/caption]

Dallas Stars (4) vs. Phoenix Coyotes (3)

• What a game for one of the ageless wonders Jaromir Jagr who recorded his 666th career NHL goal. He finished off with 2 goals and 2 assists giving him the league lead in points.


• After a fantastic year leading the Coyotes to the Western Conference Finals, Mike Smith had a rough start between the pipes finishing the night with a .846 Save Percentage. Luckily there's still plenty of time for him to turn it around.


• After being traded to the Stars from the Sabres, Derek Roy won 70% of his faceoffs.

Minnesota Wild (4) vs.  Colorado Avalanche (2)

• Danny Heatley scored 2 goals and both were assisted by offseason acquisition Zach Parise.


• The Avalanche's young stars weren't able to hold off the relentless attack of the Wild veterans.

Anaheim Ducks (7) vs. Vancouver Canucks (3)

• Everyone knew the Canucks were a little banged up both on offence and defence- but no one knew they would be this badly off.


• Remember how Cory Schneider was going to replace Luongo- yeah that didn't last too long as Schneider was pulled in favour for Bobby Luo after 5 goals.


• Much like Jagr- Temmu Selanne never seems to age. He's back for another NHL season with the Ducks at age 42 and is off to a fast start with 2 goals and 2 assists on opening night.

[caption id="attachment_2123" align="aligncenter" width="630"] Thomas Vanek scores 1 of 2 goals[/caption]

 

Buffalo Sabres (5) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (2)

• How about Thomas Vanek? Despite a somewhat sluggish start from the winger- he picked his game up scoring 2 goals and assisting on the other 3. A 5 point night for Vanek giving him the NHL scoring lead.


• Sabres goalie Ryan Miller looked in mid-season form, looking sharp and keeping the Sabres afloat until they found their scoring touch. Looks like it may be a bounce back year for Miller.


• The Flyers have started their season 0-2, it's still early on but not a good start for Bryzgalov and the Flyers.


• Hartnell took 1 boarding penalty and hit Tyler Ennis from behind which went uncalled, unlike last years Sabres, this years decided they would do something and stand up to Hartnell. Drew Stafford, yes Stafford- challenged Flyers tough guy to a fight to stand up for his linemate Ennis. There's a new breed of physical Sabres in town and I like them.


• Sabres' youngsters- Cody Hodgson, Marcus Foligno and Mikhail Grigorenko looked good and sparked some youth into the rest of the team.

San Jose Sharks (4) vs. Calgary Flames (1)

• Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Joe Pavelski and Dan Boyle all hade multipoint games.


• The Flames drew first blood and dominated the first period but their flame was put out in the second period.


• Flames rookie Sven Baertschi looked impressive in his debut.

Pittsburgh Penguins (6) vs. New York Rangers (3)

• The king Lundqvist seems to have fallen off his throne early on, losing his second straight game and being pulled against the Penguins.


• The Penguins are proving they are for real defeating their 2nd divisional foe in as many nights. As a result the Penguins are now 4 points ahead of both the Rangers and Flyers.


• Evgeni Malkin lead the way with 3 assists and Crosby managed his first point of 2013.

Minnesota Wild (1) vs. Dallas Stars (0)

• The first shutout of the 2013 season goes to Wild goalie Josh Harding.


• Zach Parise scored the games lone goal, earning his big contract signed this offseason.

Edmonton Oilers (3) vs. Vancouver Canucks (2) S/O

• Sunday evening saw the first shutout and the first shootout of the 2013 season. The young Oilers had a comeback win against the banged up Canucks in the shootout.


• Luongo started the game- all be it as he was scheduled to anyways but was able to drag out a point for his Canucks. Does it make a whole lot of difference in the long run? Probably not, the Canucks have made it clear they're going through with Cory Schneider but it does give folks something to talk about.


• Jordan Eberle scored a beautiful goal to put the Oilers on the board beating Luongo from a sharp angle. I stick by my claim that Eberle will challenge for the MVP award.

Chicago Blackhawks (6) vs. Phoenix Coyotes (4)

• Coyotes goalie Mike Smith continues his rough start with another poor performance allowing the 6 goals against, for a total of 10 goals against in 2 games- the good news for him is his counterpart didn't fare that much better as Ray Emery let in 4.


• The Blackhawks seem to for real, still early on but with 2 back- to -back wins on the road to kick off the season, there isn't much to complain about.


• Marian Hossa continued his hot start by potting another 2 goals in the win.

 

How many people were happy to see the NHL return over the weekend? It was a fantastic weekend of hockey- Some teams got out to hot-starts (Blackhawks, Penguins) while others dropped their first 2 games (Flyers, Rangers). What did you think of this weekends games? Which one's did you watch? What was your favourite highlight- goal or save? I hope you enjoyed the 2013 NHL Opening Weekend!

2013 Eastern Conference Preview

Well hockey fans the time has finally come- NHL hockey has returned to us and tonight marks "NHL hockey eve", a night more exciting than Christmas itself for some. Since the 2013 NHL season is set to get underway on Saturday and a 48 game season is set to bring many surprises, it's time to break down how I see the Eastern Conference shaping up.

1. New York Rangers

What's not to like about the Rangers- They have solid goaltending, top notch forwards, shutdown defenceman, a coach who speaks his mind and they went out and acquired a piece to help them become even better. The "Blue Shirts" finished first in the East last season and with the addition of Rick Nash and not losing any key players they are easily the team to beat in the Eastern Conference. With Richards, Gaborik, Staal and Girardi- the Rangers arguably have the most talented roster.

Key Players to watch- Rick Nash was acquired to help get the Rangers into the Stanley Cup Finals, a goal which they fell just short of last season. Will the acquisition of Nash pay off? Or will Nash crack under the pressure in the big city. Will Henrik Lundqvist be able to match his Vezina winning season and retain his throne as the King? Also keep an eye on how many games the Rangers play Lundqvist in this 48 game sprint, they have a solid back up in Martin Biron who is capable of carrying some of the load and still putting up "W's".

2. Pittsburgh Penguins

Similar to the Rangers, the Penguins have a star studded lineup that is used to winning. With a healthy Sidney Crosby and the emergence of Evgeni Malkin and James Neal look for the Penguins to start off the season hot. They signed Thomas Vokoun which will allow them to rest Marc- Andre Fluery before the playoffs where they will need him to step up after his pitiful performance last year against the Flyers. Just for a minute take in the fact that Crosby may be their 2nd line centre- yeah the Penguins are that good!

Key Players to Watch- This will be Crosby's first full season in 2 years, and because of the lockout will be a shortened season anyways. There are reports that Crosby is in the best shape he's ever been- Crosby is ready to the hit ice to prove he's fine and still a top notch players.

3. Boston Bruins

Depending on how well Tukka Rask adjusts to being the number one goalie without Tim Thomas around- the Bruins could easily win their division which would see them in 3rd in the conference. While the Bruins don't exactly have all the skilled finesse players the Rangers and Penguins have, they have the type of players who are willing to do the dirty work to help the team win. Everyone on the Bruins has a role, from Milan Lucic to Tyler Seguin each player has a role they must fill. Every member of the Bruins have bought into their system and they're as deep a team as you'll see in the Eastern Conference- look for them to come out early and play physical hockey while other teams are still trying adapt.

Key Players to Watch- Rookie defenceman Dougie Hamilton will likely be on the roster opening night and should have an immediate impact on the blue-line. How will Tukka Rask adapt to being the number one goaltender- this team will only be as good as Rask plays, remember they're used to having Thomas  bail them out.

4. Carolina Hurricanes

[caption id="attachment_2062" align="alignright" width="300"] Jordan Staal[/caption]

The Hurricanes made it clear this offseason that they're ready to make another Stanley Cup run. The additions of Jordan Staal and Alex Semin will help add more offencive depth taking the pressure of Eric Staal and Jeff Skinner. The Staal brothers should have instant chemistry and push each other to be better- combine that with the steady play of Cam Ward between the pipes and the Hurricanes have a recipe for success.

Key Players to Watch- Jordan Staal will finally get the opportunity to play top 6 minutes and will be counted on to deliver and help lead the team, how will he adapt to the bigger role?

5. Washington Capitals

I have the Capitals a little lower than most, but I think this is a good spot for them. After losing Alex Semin and head coach Adam Oates moving Alex Ovechkin to wing there's lots of questions that need to be answered. Which Ovechkin is going to show up? Who is this team- is it the high scoring team that would light up opponents but choke in the playoffs or a defence first team that wants to win 2-1 games? With the addition of Mike Ribeiro and Braden Holtby emerging from the shadows the Capitals are set for another solid season that will see them make the playoffs.

Key Players to Watch- After a sub-par season from the Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin will need to find his game again if the Capitals are to have long-term success. After a injury plagued campaign for Mike Green, he is now healthy and will need a big year on the blue-line to prove he's worth the money and hype.

6. Philadelphia Flyers

The Flyers shouldn't have any trouble putting up points with newly named captain Claude Giroux, Danny Briere, Brayden Schenn and Scott Hartnell but will be weak on the blue-line without Chris Pronger and Matt Carle and no one know's what's up with Ilya Bryzgalov. The Flyers will make the playoffs but will have a rocky season.

Key Players to Watch- After being named captain and putting up 93 points last season it will be interesting to see how Claude Giroux adapts to his new role and if he can keep up his production from last season. After being traded from the Leafs, Luke Schenn will have an opportunity to be a key defenceman yet fly under the radar unlike in Toronto- that should help him find his confidence again.

7. Tampa Bay Lightning

The Lightning went out and acquired a new young goaltender in Anders Lindback to become the new starter. With the red hot Steven Stamkos, playmaker Martin St. Louis and captain Vincent Lecavalier leading the way offencively for the Bolts they should be able to break into the playoffs.

Key Players to Watch- After reaching the 60 goal plateau last season it will interesting to see what Steven Stamkos has planned for an encore this year.

8. Buffalo Sabres

It was a disappointing year for the Sabres last season, falling just short of the 8th and final playoff spot- but this year I see them snatching the last playoff spot and returning to the post-season. If the Bruins get off to a rocky start and don't win the division, the Sabres are the next viable option to win the division which would bump them up to the 3rd. Ryan Miller is bound to have a bounce back year, Marcus Foligno is poised for a full season in the NHL and rising star Mikhail Grigorenko will put up his fair share of points- the Sabre should have no problem scoring goals.

Key Players to Watch- Will Ryan Miller be able to bounce back from a slow start and continue the hot streak he was on at the end of last season? Just how good will Marcus Foligno be- good enough to win the Calder?

9. Ottawa Senators

The Senators are an interesting team. They had a surprising year last season when they made the playoffs and excelled, but for them to do that again is highly unlikely. This season everyone know's not to underestimate the Senators and they'll have a tough time with the constant divisional play. Erik Karlsson had a Norris winning season but will be hard-pressed to do the task again, could be a roller coaster year for the Sens.

Key Player to Watch- Can Erik Karlsson prove he's an elite defenceman and last year wasn't a fluke? Daniel Alfredsson is getting older, how will he hold up in the 48 game sprint?

10. Florida Panthers

The Panthers made the playoffs by the skin of their panther teeth- more specifically points earned for lost shootouts. While the shootouts will play a major part in this years shortened season, the chances of the Panthers getting lucky again are slim. They have young stars in Jonathan Huberdeau and Kris Versteeg but their luck will run out.

Key Players to Watch- Will goaltender Scott Clemmensen be able to get the job done?

11. New Jersey Devils

Yes the New Jersey Devils made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals and gave the Los Angeles Kings a legitimate run for their money and may deserve to be a bit higher but losing Zach Parise this summer really puts the Devils behind the eight-ball. Adam Henrique will be called upon to help fill the void left by Parise.

Key Players to Watch- Martin Brodeur is another year older and who know's if he'll be able to keep up his all-star type numbers in the extra tough shortened season

12. Winnipeg Jets

There's not a lot to say about the Jets- they were the feel good story of the NHL last season after being moved from Atlanta, but they are still very much the Atlanta Thrashers team that couldn't win. Look for Evander Kane and Andrew Ladd to lead the team but it could be another long hockey season in Winnipeg- good thing fans are just happy to have their team back.

13. Toronto Maple Leafs

Will the Toronto Maple Leafs finally end their playoff drought? Unfortunately for Leaf fans that doesn't seem to be in the cards this season. The Leafs

[caption id="attachment_2065" align="alignright" width="150"] Zazem Kadri will get his chance to prove he can play in the NHL[/caption]

desperately need to add a proven veteran goaltender but are choosing to give James Reimer and Ben Scrivens a chance- there's nothing wrong with that in the long run but it will likely result in the Leafs failing to reach the post-season again.

Key Players to Watch- goaltenders Ben Scrivens and James Reimer as they battle for the starting job. Will be interesting to see how Nazem Kadri will adapt to centering the 3rd line and finally being given a chance to prove himself.

14. Montreal Canadiens

The Canadiens had a rough season last year and it doesn't look like it will be much better this season. As of right now they have failed to reach an agreement with defenceman P.K Subban and have bought out Scott Gomez. Carey Price will have to come up big night in and night out for them to have much of a chance most nights. Look to see if they keep rookie Alex Galchenyuk all season and how his offence will help the team.

15. New York Islanders

After deciding to cut Ryan Strome and Griffin Reinhart after training camp, it looks like the Islanders may be going into a re-build in an attempt to get a top pick in the 2013 draft and allow their prospects more time to develop. It will be a long season on the Island, that will likely see them finish last again.

Key Players to Watch- John Tavares should still put up solid numbers despite being on a last place team.

What do you think of my Eastern Conference predictions? What teams would you change and who are you looking to come up big this season?

10 Players To Watch In Shortened NHL Season

With the 2013 NHL season just 2 days away it's time to take a look at 10 players who are set to have a big year in the shortened NHL season. The players who will benefit most from the 48 game campaign are the youngsters- many of whom have been playing in the AHL during the 113 days NHL lockout. This list will carry a mixture of stars to underdogs who are going to turn some heads and help lead their teams to victory.

10 Players to Watch in Shortened NHL Season-

10- Brendan Smith- Detroit Red Wings

This is a young defenceman that was brought to my attention by one of my twitter followers- and it turns out he's going to have a key role on the Red Wings blueline. Smith is coming off 32 games with Grand Rapids where he's racked up 5 goals and 15 assists and will have a head start on many of his Red Wings teammates- who haven't had a chance to play. Smith saw 14 games with the Wings last season and will need to step up to the plate after the Wings lost defencemen Nicklas Lidstrom and Brad Stuart in the offseason. After taking the time to hone his skills in the AHL, Smith knows he's ready to make the jump and help fill the holes on the Wings blueline. If your fantasy hockey league counts +/- then consider picking up Smith- who prides himself on his +/-.

9. Gabriel Landeskog- Colorado Avalanche

Landeskog was so impressive in his rookie year that he won rookie of the year honours and earned the trust of Avalanche brass to be named the youngest captain in team history. In 82 games last season the young Swede was able to put up 52 points and with a shortened season could surprise many and be amongst the top goal scorers in the league- it also doesn't hurt he played in Sweden during the lockout racking up 14 points in 17 games. Look for Landeskog to jump out to a quick start to prove he was the right choice for captain and his rookie year wasn't a fluke.

8. Jordan and Eric Staal- Carolina Hurricanes

I'm putting the Staal brothers together on this list because if either of them is to have a big year it will because of the addition of their brother. The Hurricanes were on a mission to add young talent to help prove they are serious Cup contenders- one of their big additions was Jordan Staal from the Pittsburgh Penguins. Jordan will be re-united with his older brother Eric and the siblings will be looking to help each other improve with a little old sibling rivalry. Jordan is finally getting the top 6 minutes he deserves and will be looking to prove he is a top 6 forward- Eric had a slow start last year and will be looking to rebound this season. Look for the Staal brothers to have career years and get the Hurricanes back into the playoffs.

7. Ryan Miller- Buffalo Sabres

After having the best year of his career in 2010 in which he captured the Vezina trophy and back-stopped the Sabres into the playoffs, Miller had a dissapointing season last year. An early concussion threw him off his game early on and put the Sabres in a rough spot. After a strong finish at the end of last season which brought the Sabres back from 14th to 9th look for Miller to carry that momentum over into the shortened season. Miller will be looking to re-solidify his spot amongst the elite goalies in the NHL and a 48 game season (30 games) will be just the thing to get Miller back on track. With the additions of Hodgson, Foligno and possibly Grigorenko the Sabres should be able to put up more goals to help their tender out. Look for Miller to return to his Vezina form and be amongst the top goalies propeling the Sabres back into the postseason.

6. Matt Duchene- Colorado Avalanche

Duchene has shown flashes of brilliance since being taken 3rd overall in 2009, but has yet to solidify himself as the elite player he was projected to be. The Avalanche are filled with youth and young stars- having Landeskog being named captain shows they are putting faith in the youth of the team. Duchene is now 22 and healthy after a injury plagued 2011-2012- and after being some-what overshadowed by Landeskog, Duchene will be looking to remind everyone he was the original Avalanche superstar. Coming off strong play overseas during the lockout Duchene has brought that play back home and is looking very strong in training camp- look for him to prove he's ready and capable of playing on the first line.

5. Sidney Crosby- Pittsburgh Penguins

As one of the best, most elite players in the league Crosby is always an exciting player to watch and never disappoints. When his team needs someone to step up he's the first one to score a big goal. After playing just 63 games over the last 2 seasons Crosby is finally healthy and is looking forward to playing a "full-season" with no injury issues. Evgeni Malkin has risen to the top with the absence of Crosby and has won over the fans- many believing Malkin to be the best player on the Penguins- Crosby is in the best shape he's been in years, look for him to hit the ice running and light up the league proving he is still one of the best players in the game and gain back his honour of being the best Penguin. After last seasons disappointing first round exit at the hands of the Flyers, look for Crosby to lead the Pens back to the Stanley Cup Finals!

4. Claude Giroux- Philadelphia Flyers

Coming off a career year with the Flyers that saw Giroux put up 93 points and have his name thrown into the mix as a elite young player- Giroux has been named the 19th captain in Flyers history. At age 25 with 4 NHL seasons under his belt, Giroux is ready to step up and become a leader- he already leads the team without the "C" by inspiring teammates with hard hits and timely goals. He's the perfect player to take over the captaincy role from Chris Pronger and could be poised for a long run as Flyers captain. Look for Giroux to put up terrific numbers and lead the Flyers to a deep playoff run.

3. Cory Schneider- Vancouver Canucks

After stealing the number goaltending job away from Roberto Luongo, there's no questions everyone in the hockey world will be looking at Schneider. Schneider will be called upon to not only keep the Canucks at the top of the Western Conference, but to break the reputation of a team that can't perform in the playoffs. There's going to be a lot of pressure on the young goaltender to deliver- will he rise to the occasion or crack under the pressure?

2. Jordan Eberle- Edmonton Oilers

I absolutely love the way Jordan Eberle plays and it's a shame he gets overshadowed by  Taylor Hall, Ryan Nugent- Hopkins and now Nail Yakupov. I truly believe Eberle is the Oilers MVP and the most complete young star- look for him to prove that this year. Last year was a career year for the 22 year-old who racked up 76 points and ranked 16th amongst NHL scoreers. After being given a "A" this season, look for Eberle to become one of the leaders of the young Oilers squad both on the ice and off ice- leading by example. I wouldn't be surprised to see him lead the team in points and be amongst the top scoring leaders in the shortened season.

1. Justin Shultz- Edmonton Oilers

With all the young offencive talent the Oilers have I wouldn't be surprised if they managed to squeak into the playoffs. Shultz absolutely tore up the AHL during the lockout putting up 48 points in just 34 games- and he's a defenceman. The 48 game season will work out perfectly for Shultz in his first year after playing a 43 game season with Wisconsin. Look for Shultz to provide some stability to the Oilers defence and challenge for the Calder trophy.

 

There you have it folks, 10 players who are poised to have a big season once the puck drops on Saturday. One things for sure- a 48 game season will result in some exciting hockey with lots of surprises.

 

 

Stand Up Turn Around

It's been a long 3 months for NHL fans, the game they love was wrongfully taken away- while the people who run the league engaged in the battle of greed. But after a gruelling process which lasted 113 days the battle finished and the NHL has been returned to it's fans- All's forgiven right? Wrong!

Now there have been tons of protests encouraging fans to stay away from or boycott the NHL in order to send a message to the league, but the only problem with those idea's is the fans- who did nothing wrong, are forced to further miss out on the game they love and after 3 long months most are desperate to see NHL hockey again.

We here at the The Puck Stops Here have come up with a new idea to "stick it to Gary Bettman" a simple idea called Stand Up Turn Around. Best of all it doesn't involve you missing any of your beloved hockey. The idea was originally brought to my attention through Donmanski, a former editor here. Project Stand Up and Turn Around is mainly for fans that are lucky enough to be going to NHL opening night or home openers on January 19th and 20th- but even if you're not going to a game next weekend, you can still help spread the word.

Here is the just of project Stand Up Turn Around:

The lockout is over – now what?  Stand Up and Turn Around  

Fans of the NHL are understandably upset with the 113 day lockout they had to endure. But now what?  Boycott the game they love and miss? Stop buying merchandise?  Watch basketball?  None of those or any others I’ve heard make any sense.  There are too many people who already have  a great deal of money invested to just give it up.  There are too many vendors who’ve already suffered enough for the fans to continue hurting them.

What needs to be done is something simple, yet noticeable.  One that allows fans to come together and show that they’re sick and tired of putting up with the nonsense that arises every few years.  There is a simple answer – Stand Up and Turn Around.

Fans going to team home openers are being encouraged to Stand Up and Turn Around during the opening face-off of each game.  Not for long, just the first 10-30 seconds the puck is in play.  Afterwards, settle in, put the past behind you and enjoy the sprint to the Cup! (not to be confused with the Sprint Cup)

Imagine the message sent if players and owners see this happening in their arenas – they’d have to get the message.  They’d have a visible message to their selfishness with the game we love.

So, everyone – repeat after me – Stand Up and Turn Around!  #Standupandturnaround.

~Donmanski

Want to send a visible message that will actually mean something? Sure you can stop buying merchandise or boycott going to games, but eventually someone else will take your spot and open their wallets to the NHL. But if fans actually stood up and turned their backs to game action, imagine the message that would be sent? Just imagine the in-game commentators: "Are fans turning their back to the game? Why yes they are! Todd it appears that fans have turned their back for the opening face-off- maybe in an attempt to send a message?"

Imagine the message 30 seconds of your time could send- Besides what's going to happen in 30 seconds?

Take the pledge Stand Up and Turn Around!