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  1. Hello @Members! I'm excited to announce that we have made our charitable donation for the year of $1656 to Doctor's Without Borders! Additionally you all donated $1804 separate from the league bringing our total for the 2023 Holiday Charity drive to $3540! I'm always amazed to see the league come together and make such a difference in the world, it's great to see. You all want some rewards I imagine though don't you? Well it was close but thanks to being $40 over the $3500 threshold we have once again hit every community goal which means every member of the community can claim 20 uncapped TPE and a PT Doubles week! It also means all our community items were met which means: @twists will stream a declaration of his love for everyone that's been active in the past week. @DarkSpyro will perform some Christmas themed metal songs @Grape will do a full stream of all the Five Nights at Freddy's games. @Acydburn will stream something, he just hasn't decided what yet. @Beketov will once again stream Zoo Tycoon 2 Ultimate and name animals after VHL members. As mentioned in the OP, unfortunately to keep things fair and not have a bunch of future creates claiming this: Rewards may only be applied to players created on, or before, December 25th, 2023 We'll get that stuff all scheduled as well as the raffle draw scheduled soon so keep an eye out for that and, once again, thank you all for making this time of year in the VHL so special!
    36 points
  2. Hello friends, I am officially announcing my retirement as General Manager of the Calgary Wranglers. There are a few reasons as to why I have made this decision and now is the best time to take a step back from this role to better spend my time in other areas of the league and in my personal life. I hold a pretty high bar for myself when it comes to maintaining a certain level of activity for any locker room that I am in charge of. The day that became a chore is the day I knew it was time for a much needed break. I also live a super busy personal life and this has also made it harder to give the locker room my full attention. There is nothing to worry about in terms of my participation in the league. I still very much enjoy and love being apart of this league. I will have better focus on my player and the locker room I’m apart of there. I have my moderation gig that I’ll have more time to focus on and one day I do plan on stepping back into a GM role because it truly is a passion of mine. Lastly, thank you to all the GMs I have had a pleasure to work with since I’ve started, all the AGMs who have worked along side me over the seasons and the players who grinded it out and bought into the way I wanted things to run in Calgary. I am not going to ping everyone who’s been an important part of this journey, I think you all know who you are at this point. Ricer, out!! **I do recommend that @leandrofg be considered to step in as replacement. He has been running the team behind the scenes this past season and has a really good handle on how things are going in Calgary. He also has a long history with the organization. I will respect whatever decision is made for my replacement.**
    28 points
  3. Recently a trip to the hospital and a few doctors appointments opened my eyes and i received a few diagnoses (nothing super serious i will live!!) but one of them was a thing called CHS, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. Basically for the last couple of months I’ve been having uncontrollable vommiting, sometimes up to 20-25 times a day and i finally have had enough. It got to the point I was calling into work, putting off important things because i couldn’t even function. I could barely eat or keep things down, I was taking multiple super hot baths and showers everyday as that is the only thing that would help the feeling go away. I always thought it was something else, another underlying issue but all along it was the thing i used to chill out and relax, weed. Little did i know not only did i grow a dependency on it but it was slowly hurting me and it was just only gonna get worse and worse. I honestly at one point didn’t know if i would be able to make it one day without smoking as i was a really heavy smoker, multiple joints, bongs or thc carts to keep me “happy”. I know it has only been 3 days but holy hell i can’t believe i haven’t touched it since. I know it’s super early but i just wanted to share my progress to hopefully inspire others to maybe quit or lean back. I know @Banackock has a thread documenting his journey from quitting cigarettes and it really inspired me to start my own journey and bring this awesome community along with me. I intend to stay sober and make better life choices moving forward and I can’t wait to show you all. Cheers guys and here’s to being sober!
    27 points
  4. Hello VHL, This post serves as my announcement of my resignation from Recruitment, GM of the New York Americans, Board of Governors, and as one of the VHLE Commissioners. Allow me a moment to explain: On October 8th, 2020, I found myself with a lot of time on my hands. I was working part-time and earning my Master's degree while living in a world that was dictated by COVID. I saw an advertisement on one of Thrash94's videos for the VHL and I quickly joined. I came in eager to learn, eager to earn, and eager to make Hall of Fame-worthy players. I dove headfirst into the VHL community and loved every minute of it. Eventually, I applied to be a GM for Team USA in the WJC and since then I've managed in one way or another. I became a GM for the San Diego Marlins, then the Stockholm Vikings, and finally the New York Americans. In all of that, I helped manage various off-season tournaments as well. That escalated to me taking a position on the Recruitment Team, and being asked to work as a Commissioner for the VHLE, which I happily accepted. While all of that was going on, my personal life and career were taking off. My wife became pregnant, we moved back to our home state, and our family grew. I finished my Master's, and started working full-time, and the time that I had to devote to the league dwindled more and more over time. This year though has been a tipping point. As some of you know, my mother struggled with addiction my whole life, and in April that struggle caught up to her and she passed. Then, my wife and I endured the hardship of losing two children through miscarriage. Those events led us to grow much closer, and it made me realize just how precious the time I have with my family is. It's only here temporarily, and it can vanish in the blink of an eye. Those hard moments were, well, hard. But, there have been so many good things to happen in my life this year, most of them revolving around increased work responsibilities. While I love my work, I don't have the luxury of a job that runs 9-5 and is off on the weekends, so the free time I do get is rather limited and decreases more and more. All of that being said, I want you to know that I am not making this decision because I'm burnt out, nor because I've lost interest in the VHL. It comes down to the fact that I just don't have the time I used to when I first started, and I can't devote the way I want to the thing that I seem to be lacking. My goal, at this time, is to finish out my career with Dynamite and then...well, who knows? Maybe I'll take a season or two off completely and lurk every once in a while, or maybe I'll make another player and ride the pension/welfare train for a while. I don't know. What I do know is that I'm thankful for the time I've had here, and for the friends I've made.
    27 points
  5. Managing this team has been a treat all the way from working with league management on the expansion concept way back at the start of the pandemic to winning a championship in season 76, and all the ups and downs before and since then. Overall, I think the Chicago Phoenix have been a success. While my activity has been called into question throughout my tenure, some as a bit of an inside joke, others in a more assholeish way, I think many of my longer-term players will agree that I have been dedicated to trying to build a winner here in Chicago, and we have managed to make the playoffs in 12 of our 16 seasons since we came into the league. While it would have been nice to have been able to have brought more than one cup to Chicago the playoffs are a fickle beast and while we have been close, I was never able to secure one with this second core. Now to thank some specific people. @solas – my first ever draft pick with Chicago and a career player for the Phoenix. Camus was a legend and you are among my favourite members here @fishy – while our time together got off to a rocky start when I drafted Matty Socks without scouting, I think it ended up being a fun adventure with that first core @Blazzer – my first AGM and another career long Chicago Phoenix player – I know you hated how Lee Xin played but I hope our conversations in the locker room and early morning gen chat made your early time in the league enjoyable @Quik – Thanks for trusting me with Christian Mingle and sticking out your career in Chicago – glad we could get a cup out of it – hope all is well @MubbleFubbles – Thank you for spending as long as you did in Chicago. Our chats on player builds and roster construction were always very enjoyable and I wish you all the best with this player and any in the future @Shindigs – I hope everything is good with you – we talked a ton while you were here and I am sad we could not win a cup together, but I learned a lot from you on new builds with the hybrid attributes. Hope to see you around again soon! @fromtheinside – So glad you chose to spend your career in Chicago with Sundin. Once again sad we couldn’t win a cup together but I hope I provided you with a fun place to play out your career @Subject056 - I know you are a fairly new member of the Phoenix and we haven't talked a ton but whichever member gets to take over as a general manager for the Phoenix has a great member and player to build around as their cornerstone. I hope you can carry Chicago back to glory in the near future! To the plethora of other players who have played in the red and orange since our inception I would like to thank each and every one of you for your time here, whether you got here through trade, free agency, the draft or other means. I hope I gave you a locker room and team where you could have fun while I tried to build a winning team with a good enviroment. Outside of that I would like to thank all the other general managers who put up with me in my role. I have issues responding to DMs, as has been brought up a few times, but that was never anything personal. That issue extends to my personal and work life as well and is something I am trying to work on. I truly did enjoy talking to most of you and you made the role a fun one to work in. I hope to stick around the VHL in some capacity as I have been here on and off since its creation sixteen seasons ago but it is time for me to hand the reins over to someone who can dedicate the time needed to build Chicago back into a championship caliber team. tl;dr it is time for me to admit I am inactive and I’m going to retire
    25 points
  6. I've always been fascinated by the nationalities of the VHL, both at a member level, but also in the countries that members have chosen for their players. There has been a dominance of Canada and the US as expected but also a lot of other traditional and non-traditional hockey markets, which has meant a very eclectic list of entries into the Hall of Fame, and also a very balanced World Cup which has recently become a particularly underappreciated tournament. I'm moving away from the most unusual locations for the purpose of this article but you can see the nationality of every single Hall of Famer in the linked thread below. In the meantime, here is an attempt to create all-time rosters (3 forwards, 3 defencemen, and 3 goaltenders) for the most popular nations in VHL history. https://vhlforum.com/topic/63841-hof-players-builders/ Note: Blue = Hall of Famer. Italics = out of position (i.e. centers used as wingers) Canada Matt Thompson - Unassisted - Brett Slobodzian Jardy Bunclewirth - Ethan Osborne - Zach Parechkin Tom Lincoln - Andrew Su - Josh Vestiquan Sterling Labatte - Daniel Braxton Black Velvet - Aurelien Moreau Elijah Incognito - Lincoln Tate Aidan Shaw Benoit Devereux Rhett DeGrath Canada's obviously #1 in this discussion. 46 Canadians have been inducted into the Hall of Fame to date, by far the most of any country, and nearly enough for 3 rosters exclusively made out of Hall of Famers. Strength in depth was never going to be an issue here but what I do find interesting is that Canada has almost not produced any player considered the best beyond dispute. Yes there's the award namesakes – Slobodzian, Labatte, Shaw – and for a time they would have been considered the pinnacle of their position, but all have been moved down the ranking with the passage of time. It's also curious that there's not really been an all-time great coming out of Canada since Matt Thompson retired in S68, evidenced by the fact only Su, Moreau, and Tate would be considered “modern” players and all three are a bit buried on the depth chart. Make no mistake, Canada would almost certainly win a hypothetical all-time tournament but it's nice that there is quite a bit of individual brilliance sprinkled across the other nations. @Beketov @STZ @JardyB10 @DollarAndADream @Da_Berr @v.2 @sterling @Frank @Tate USA Gabriel McAllister - Thomas O'Malley - Diana Maxwell Jarvis Baldwin - Mike Szatkowski - Cam Fowler John Locke - Kevin Brooks - Brannan Anthony Conner Low - Ryan Sullivan Hard Markinson - Jake Wylde Smitty Werbenjagermanjensen - Brian Payne Apollo Skye Xavier Booberry Benjamin Glover The US might have only half of Canada's Hall of Famers but it's arguably got more bang for its buck. O'Malley and McAllister are two of the 3-4 names in VHL history who can challenge Scotty Campbell as the league's GOAT. Conner Low and Ryan Sullivan – that's basically your #1 and #2 in the all-time defencemen ranking. Any of the 3 lines could realistically be the first and rolling out the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th all-time top scorers as your 3 centers puts the recent Pittsburgh Penguins dynasty to shame. Defence has been historically a weak spot (behind Low and Sullivan) but Markinson and Smitty have bridged the gap as the best of their generations, and likely S91 inductee Brian Payne is building on an impressive recent legacy. Whisper but America could well knock Canada off its perch in a one-off playoff. @CowboyinAmerica @OrbitingDeath @scoop @Will @Smarch @Advantage @Fire Fletcher @Velevra UK Chris Hylands - Leeroy Jenkins - David Smalling Brennan McQueen - Phil Rafter - Phil Gerrard Dougie Daniels - Podrick Cast - Uhtred David Walcott - Matt Bentley Jeff Hamilton - Phil Hamilton David Henman - Joseph McWolf Hans Wingate Adrian McCreath Finn Davison The streak of HOF-only rosters ends at 2. But the UK put up a very strong effort and is only 2 forwards and a goalie away from matching Canada and the US. Also, the UK as #3 in a hockey setting? The VHL's English speaking background has definitely had its impact here as has the influence of a handful of Builders. The Knight brothers account for 6 of the players on the team (hint: it's anyone named Phil or David) and as a UK resident I have also assisted with Cast and Bentley. Is it enough to challenge the top two? Probably not, despite a sprinkling of real VHL royalty in Jenskins, Smalling, and Rafter. Goaltending depth is where the team falls down (this will start to be a recurring theme from here), with McCreath widely considered one of the weaker goalies in the Hall, and Wingate's famous playoff heroics might not be enough to rescue the UK here. @hylands @Knight @Phil @leafsman @McWolf Switzerland Scott Boulet - Scotty Campbell - Matt Bailey Branden Snelheid - Daniel Janser - Leander Kaelin Rudolph Schmeckeldorf - Jasper Davis - Tomas Ziegler Tomas Jenskovic - Alexander Sauve Petr Shirokov - Lars Intranquilo Mike Kloepfer - David Tavau Sandro Clegane Matthew Pogge Marius Henchoz Probably the most unbalanced team of them all. Switzerland was a VHL superstar hotspot in its early days (see Campbell, Boulet, Jenskovic) and then after S20 or so stopped producing notable talent with any regularity at all. “Recent” Hall of Famers Clegane and Janser retired some 40 seasons apart. Tellingly, Jasper Davis makes the cut despite being in his third season at the time of writing. Tavau, Kloepfer, and Ziegler in the meantime might be the worst players on any of the teams being profiled although satisfyingly have a Davos connection as either cup-winners with the Swiss team (Kloepfer, Ziegler) or Dynamo lifers (Tavau). In a 6v6 tournament, Switzerland would be up there with the best of them. Even the second line can hold its own but it all falls apart after that and the production line doesn't seem to be getting any better. @Quik @Daniel Janser @Corco @Josh @diamond_ace @Ahma Sweden Mathias Chouinard - Anton Brekker - Theo Axelsson Miles Larsson - Niklas Lindberg - Lasse Milo Ola Vikingstad - Sebastian Ironside - Scotty Sundin Alexander Valiq - Mats Johnsson Battre Sandstrom - Bo Johansson Robin Galante Nilsson - Patrick Bergqvist Torstein Ironside Papa Emeritus Oskar Lindbergh Probably the team most expected to be third in the list, Sweden likely does occupy that spot based on quantity, but has not really provided the VHL's absolute cream of the crop over the years. The thing that does stick out here is the overall balance – take out Brekker and Valiq and there's not really much separating the Hall of Famers from the 3rd liners. Most of the players on the roster have been or currently are on the HOF ballot. In particular this is relevant in net where Emeritus and Lindbergh are still awaiting the call and could change the complexion of this Swedish team if they do get inducted. Overall, however, the verdict would have to be solid but unspectacular which definitely fits the stereotype. @solas @boubabi @Dil @fromtheinside @Acydburn @Shindigs @RomanesEuntDomus @Doomsday Finland Tukka Reikkinen - Mikka Virkkunen - Jukka Hakkinen Saku Kotkakoivu - Aleksi Koponen - Joel Jarvi Valtteri Vaakanainen - Mikko Lahtinen - Karsten Olsen Fabio Jokinen - Voittu Jannula Kasper Kankkunen - Spencer Elsby Kerkko Hyvärinen - Ville Sixten / Velociraptor Greg Tuomas Tukio Vase Trikamaki Fuukka Rask Sweden's neighbours and eternal rivals are hot on their tail and one thing stands out from the off – they love a center. 8 of the 9 forwards are centers by trade and fittingly the only winger, Karsten Olsen, was a defenceman to begin with. This means great depth in the middle (not quite US level but very possible second place) but less so elsewhere. This is particularly obvious on defence where Jokinen flies the flag alone in the Hall of Fame and the depth guys blend so much that I couldn't even pick one between Sixten of 30s Toronto fame and current Prague dinosaur Greg. But the contrast is clear in goal as well – Tukio is one of the greatest ever in contention with Shaw, Wingate, and the Cleganes yet somehow my first-gen who retired in S16 with 634 TPE is still the second-best Finland has managed to produce. Like Switzerland, we are top-heavy here and will struggle on the line changes. @.sniffuM @Jubo @jRuutu @Spence King @samx @Higgins @Jubis Denmark Aloe Dear - Lars Berger - Max Molholt Jerome Reinhart (GR) - Aksel Thomassen - Zach Arce Tomas Sogaard - Venus Thightrap - Niels Skovgaard / Tyler Reinhart (GR) Zeedayno Chara (GR) - Frans Spelman Asher Reinhart (GR) - Reylynn Reinhart (GR) Joe Madison (GR) - Sven Eightnine Grekkark Gyrfalcon (GR) Jakob Kjeldsen Tobias Reinhart (GR) The Danes have really put all their eggs in one basket. Six Hall of Famers is actually quite good going for a country that's not necessarily a hockey hotbed but each one has been a forward. Offense as a strategy is a pretty good one in the VHL and Dear, Berger, and Molholt is one of the higher-scoring first lines out there, but we shouldn't cut Denmark too much slack. They've been bailed out significantly by the VHL's Greenland and interlinked Reinhart epidemic and will soon need to worry about whether a stand-alone Denmark team could beat a stand-alone Greenland one. For now though, this is a well-balanced combined team which would hold its own in a Nordic tournament. @Renomitsu @Molholt @MexicanCow123 @Arce @Brandon @BladeMaiden @Zetterberg @Ricer13 @BarzalGoat @Spaz @Sharkstrong Germany Tyson Kohler - Markus Strauss - Christian Stolzschweiger Ignatius Feltersnatch - Felix Peters - Shawn Muller Marek Schultz - Lukas Muller - Wolfgang Strauss / Christoph Klose Jochen Walser - Joey Kendrick Erik Summers - Torsten Schwarz Cole Hagstrom / Jaeger Stryker - World B. Free / Klaus Muller Dominik Stryker Greg Harbinson Mathieu VanCoughnett Germany is definitely closer to the Swiss end of the range in that a lot of its strength comes from its past rather than more recent seasons. The majority of the roster had retired or at least debuted by S30 and talent has only trickled in since. There are two old names who continue to hold up well in modern discourse in Stolzschweiger and Walser and a strong trio of centers, while the 3 split decisions on the third line show that there is more than decent depth to call upon. Goaltending is definitely a weakness however, with one of the great first overall busts in VanCoughnett propping up two names more famous for their GM roles than their exploits on the ice. @Kendrick @gregreg @TheLastOlympian07 @der meister @Erik Summers @stevo @Zero Russia Alexander Beketov - Daric Radmonovic - Pavel Koradek Evgeni Fyodorov - Sergey Preobrazhensky - Nikolai Lebedev Bogdan Trunov - Igor Molotov - Yuri Grigorenko Maxim Kovalchuk - Aleksei Federov Radislav Mjers - Vladimir Boomchenko Siyan Yasilievich / Vladimir Pavlov - Victor Grachev Alexander Labatte Maxim Desny Rara Rasputin Finally we close off this piece with the Russian team which is quite similar to the Swedes in 1) being quite balanced with no real standout superstar and 2) being pleasingly stereotypical. Russia's famous in the hockey world for producing individually brilliant players with good attacking instincts and little in the way of a two-way game – it is both their strength and often their downfall. The all-time VHL Russian team is no exception with pretty much everyone on the team focused on scoring (other than the goalies of course) and doing so well enough to be in the Hall of Fame or at least the Hall of Very Good. Everyone on the roster except Desny is also a cup winner which is quite impressive so if nothing else, team Russia would be entertaining. @Bulduray_1 @qripll @Dom @Banackock @InstantRockstar @BOOM @badcolethetitan @KaleebtheMighty After Russia the disparity grows, with no other country really providing a consistent stream of high quality VHL players. Ukraine is the only other nation with more than 2 Hall of Famers, with 4, and features prominently on the best of the rest roster I've put together below just for fun. Of course there are not many traditional hockey markets not covered above (and indeed the UK and Denmark are probably less traditional than others). The Czech and Slovak presence has also been low in the VHL with just 1 Hall of Famer between them, while Latvia actually does quite well with 2 but as expected doesn't really have the depth. Apart from that, lots of VHL members opted to bring in talent from eclectic destinations, from Asia to Australia, from South Africa to the Caribbean. It's provided a good deal of flavour to the overall list but does mean there are still gaps to fill on the more traditional teams which should be the main takeaway from this.... don't make Canadians and Americans. Everyone else Volodymyr Rybak (UKR) - Franchise Cornerstone (MON) - Odin Tordahl (NOR) Lord Karnage (SOM) - Alexander Chershenko (UKR) - Duncan Idaho (SMR) Pietro Maximoff (ROM) - Grimm Jonsson (ISL) - J.D. Stomwall (NZL) *Ronan Lavelle (IRL) could have a claim here Japinder Singh (IND) - Condor Adrienne (VAT) James Bencharski (UKR) - Patrice Reynaud (FRA) Tui Sova (FIJ) - Roque Davis (POR) Greg Clegane (IRL) Daisuke Kanou (JPN) Alex Gegeny (NAM) @Baozi
    23 points
  7. Spartan

    4 New VHLM GMs

    Yep, you heard that right! We are now hiring not the three GMs we advertised roles for before, but four GMs after the poaching of @samx by the evil Blue overlords. Once again, we'd like to thank @Blazzer, @AJW, @Pifferfish and @samx for their time spent as GMs for LVA, Houston, Philly, and Mexico City, respectively. With that being said, we've got a whole bunch of new (and old) faces to welcome to the VHLM. Please congratulate the following: Las Vegas - @McLovin Philadelphia - @Lemorse7 Houston - @STZ Mexico City - @Otis Boudreaux Jr Excited to have a fantastic mix of veterans and first gens to add to the VHLM team! Looking forward to seeing the great job you all do!
    22 points
  8. AJW

    Goodbye Houston

    First of all thank you @diamond_ace and @McWolf for giving me the opportunity of rejoining this VHLM GM team in S84 after a massive TPE ban, and thank you @Spartan and @Gustav for all the brilliant work you've done since stepping in. I don't think many people realize just how much the VHLM has changed since these two stepped in and they deserve all the credit for it. As well as hiring quality GMs to work beside every season, thank you for making this job so fun and easy to do. I am stepping down as GM of the Houston Bulls. When I was hired to GM the Houston Bulls in S84 my goal was to create a strong community and family within my new organization. Since then, @UnknownMinion and @Triller have both AGM'd by my side for 3 of 6 seasons each. I hired Minion mainly as a sidekick while on the hunt for a GM job of their own but Minion was always a pleasure to work with. Triller stepped in to the league just before Minion left Houston and I snagged him up as quickly as a could. I remember doing this to @MubbleFubbles in Vegas and they both gave me the "thank you but idk if I'm ready, I'll think about it" response before responding only a couple hours later taking the job LOL. Triller is not an AGM to me and he knows it, we run Houston together and I just get the shiny TPE for it. Houston would not be Houston without Triller. From the graphics, to the daily activity, to the fact that I don't even have to explain myself since he won the Elmebeck... Triller has been my ride or die the past three seasons in Houston. Someone who I can happily call a friend and hope to stay connected with throughout our futures. I appreciate everything you have done in the past three seasons with me and you deserve everything I get praised for. Next thank you to all the players who had the patience and fire to be a Houston Bull. The drive to get better by listening, learning, earning TPE and growing their knowledge of the VHL. Thank you to this S89 roster which is the best I have built in my 6 seasons of GMing. We didn't get the results we wanted but this was hands down my favourite season as GM. Thank you to every player I spammed to try and bring out of inactivity @DontCallMeCarson lol. Thank you @Big Newff for being the only one to play for me for all 6 seasons of my career. I'm happy I got to bring you back to this league and that you were there till the end of my run. Thank you to a player that isn't here anymore and many do not like for showing me that even with such an evil and ugly heart around the league, you will still come back after a perm ban just to be part of the Houston Bulls family again. Thank you @Girts who may have never played for me in Houston, but was my first ever All Star First Gen player in Vegas in S81. You are the reason we want to be a GM in the VHLM and help people love this league more. Thank you to every experience I had with every member, which helped me grow into the person I am in real life today. Finally, the reason I am leaving Houston is because I'm heading back to school! I'm going back to Western University to play football again! After taking two years off and working, I have had a lot of time to grow and figure myself out. I feel now I am ready and determined to chase my goals, and hopefully one day y'all can see me on the big screen playing in the CFL That is the goal with this and if I want to reach it I need to respect it as a full time job, leaving not enough time to meet this job's requirements anymore (as well as the recruitment team which I am leaving too). Thank you to everyone who has stepped into that Houston locker room since I've been around. It's sad letting go as I had so much more planned for this team, but I can proudly walk out saying I left a dent on this organization in a positive way. I hope Houston can continue to grow with whoever takes over in the future. GO BULLS GO
    22 points
  9. Hey VHL @Members! Old hands of the league have surely been waiting for this but for any youngin’s out there that aren’t aware July 18th, 2007 is the day the VHL opened. That means today marks the league's official 16th birthday. Our little league can officially drive! Fucking wild. Anyway, it’s been an absolute wild time over the past 16 years but we know you all didn't click on this to read about how fucking ancient I am. You came in for the TPE and I intend on delivering it! To commemorate the league's 16th birthday, we are giving all members a Triples Week, which adds 12 Uncapped TPE to any 6-TPE Point Task (Welfare/Pension/Affiliate PT are not included but as usual if your pay covers your PT that counts), as well as 4 Uncapped TPE. To claim these perks, which naturally add up to 16 Uncapped TPE (aren’t we so clever) all you need to do is post in this thread and then link to that post in your update; that's it! No scavenger hunt, no clues, no catches! Do a PT, make one post, and the sweet TPE is all yours. That’s not all though! We’re gonna also put everyone who claims this birthday TPE into a draw for even more TPE, we know what you all like after all. At the end of this season we’ll draw for 16 prizes of 10 more uncapped TPE each. So, to summarize quickly, that's 16 uncapped TPE just for commenting and doing a PT with the possibility of even more later curtesy of the VHL. All you have to do is post in here and you're good to go! Notes: • This thread will remain open until 11:59PM PST on Monday, July 24th. • All claims for the birthday bonus must be made by the end of the playoffs this season. • Birthday perks may only be claimed on one player per member (IE if you are re-creating you can't claim them on your current player, re-create, and claim them again, pick one or the other).
    22 points
  10. Still created by @leandrofg Okay, here we are at the end of the regular season and one last time to look to see how I did at predicting where the teams would finish. What a finish did we have to the regular season with Helsinki Titans waiting until the very last game to know if they would be play-off bound or dusting off the golf clubs. In the end it was Prague Phantoms that seen the ghost and will be golfing instead. Oh, And HC Davos Dynamo killing Cinderella story of the season by finish ahead of the Riga Reign to win the European conference and another Victory cup!! So, Predictions for last two weeks; how did I do? North American Standings Record Points Last WK Predictions Last Wk 1. Los Angeles Stars 46-19-7 99Pts (12-5-3) 2nd North American Conference 2. Toronto Legion 46-24-2 94pts (13-6-1) 1st North American Conference 3. Chicago Phoenix 35-23-14 84pts (10-10-1) 3rd North American Conference 4. D.C. Dragons 36-28-8 80pts (12-5-3) 4th North American Conference 5. Calgary Wranglers 30-30-12 72pts (8-7-5) 7th North American Conference 6. Seattle Bears 27-34-11 65pts (7-9-4) 6th North American Conference 7. New York Americans 29-38-5 63pts (7-11-1) 5th North American Conference 8. Vancouver Wolves 21-42-9 51pts (5-13-2) 8th North American Conference Summary: Strong finish to the season by Los Angeles Stars; as I had stated I wasn`t confident in moving them out of the top spot and they proved that doubt correct as they managed to keep a five-point lead that they had heading into the final two weeks of the season over the Toronto Legion. Calgary sneaks into the play-off as it looked like no one really wanted the final wildcard spot and New York in my predictions were the biggest loser in this situation as they should have moved up in the past two weeks but …….. European Conference Standings Record Points Last WK Predictions Last Wk 1. HC Davos Dynamo 49-16-7 105pts (16-4-0) 3rd European Conference 2. Riga Reign 49-17-6 104pts (11-6-3) 2nd European Conference 3. London United 44-19-9 97pts (11-7-2) 4th European Conference 4. Malmo Nighthawks 45-22-5 95pts (10-9-0) 1st European Conference 5. Helsinki Titans 41-27-4 86pts (11-7-2) 5th European Conference 6. Prague Phantoms 39-26-7 85pts (15-4-1) 6th European Conference 7. Moscow Menace 19-43-10 48pts (5-13-3) 7th European Conference 8. Warsaw Predators 20-48-4 44pts (8-12-1) 8th European Conference Summary: So I messed up how strong or weak the schedule for HC Davos was in the final two weeks of the season but I really didn`t miss that much as I had the team going 12-8 when they finished 16-4 so only a four game or eight point difference. Congrats on the late season run and the Victory cup. I also think HC Davos ended up being one of the biggest movers of the season going from 4th in the standings to first in last 20 games. New Champion will be crowned with HC Davos now entering as the favorites; let’s see if the Victory Cup curse stay true!! Now for the season review aspect of the article with a look at the expectations at the start of the season for each team and where they actually finished. It will be a bit different from last season since I also have the records from each week and we will also look at the positives and negative aspects if any for each team moving forward. Season Review: Positives & Negatives moving ahead 16. Predicted Placements: 8th European Conference 13th League Positives: Maxim Anisimov @McLovin(24-33-57pts) and King Kisslinger @Kisslinger(17-24-41pts) have given the fans in Warsaw some hope for the future; add in what could be a very talented player with a high overall pick and the building pieces are starting to fall in place. Negative: Prospects development just isn`t producing enough talent at the moment with no new prospects set to make the roster next season and only one first round pick this off season means the rebuild will continue to be ugly in Warsaw next season. Add in the fact that Maxim Anisimov @McLovin and King Kisslinger @Kisslinger will be looking for extensions this off season and only Tom Creeg @Creegan610(18-18-36pts) as the currently only signed player means GM @N0HBDY and AGM @Mysterious_Fish have busy off season ahead if they are looking to keep these two players long term and look to improve the roster. 15. Predicted Placement: 7th European Conference 12th League Positives: Likely Rookie of the year winner in Axle Gunner @Steve(32-41-73pts), Jarmo Ruutu @jRuutu(9-30-39pts) and Obuz Schneider Canet du Bocage @Grape(6-29-35pts) all having a solid rookie seasons. All of course led by veteran Left Alone @okochastar(38-55-93pts). Add in the prospects ready to make the jump next season in Ellis Woolfenden (VAS) @D3X(35-34-69pts), Leif Reingaard (VAS) @Zetterberg(20-53-73pts), Thor Reingaard (VAS) @N0HBDY(18-41-59pts) and Goaltender Olober Syko (STO) @Spartan (2.42GA, 0.938% & 7SO). Oh, I also almost missed the fact they should pick up two very good prospect during the draft; with a top pick in the first round and one later in the first. Negative: Could this will leave Moscow in an interesting situation where they have too many prospects? Prospects also take time to develop so if they don`t add any further veterans to the roster next season; they will be looking at another long season but one filled with future and hope at least giving the fans something to cheer about. 14. Predicted Placement: 7th North American Conference 15th League Positives: FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist @STZ(41-38-79pts) and Liv Slater @Subject056(10-52-62pts) had strong season as the new leaders of the team. They will be heavily relied upon to provide a veteran presence as the team starts the rebuilding process. Justin Lion @Emperor_Fun(3.88GA & 0.913%) was also a bright spot for the team after coming over from Malmo Nighthawks in a mid-season trade. Center Mikko Borisyuk (BRA) @Minebro(39-38-77pts) and goaltender Dalkr Vidarsson (ROM) @KaleebtheMighty(2.09GA, 0.942% & 5SO) should be joining the roster next season. Five first round picks with two of them mostly being in the top five. (it could be interesting to see if they flip or move some of these picks.) Negatives: Similar situation as both other teams in the rebuilding stage as they have prospects but until they join the roster in a few seasons it will be ugly in Vancouver. Unless Vancouver Wolves bring in veteran or two to boost the roster performance. A few season away still as the rebuild has just started. 13. Predicted Placement: 8th North American Conference 16th League Positives: Top five forward in Jasper Davis @Josh(39-66-105pts) and top ten forward in Francesco Mancini @GioSivo(47-54-101pts) add in strong defense defenseman in Tord Yvel @Trazan(13-47-60pts). Prospects joining the roster next season in goaltender WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW @rory(2.55GA, 0.926% & 3SO) and a pair of defender in Callum Gary Yannick Janser (VAS) @Daniel Janser(12-36-48pts) and Rin Kagamine (OSL) @Rin(14-45-59pts). Top five draft prospect to boost the teams offense and the fans have something to cheer about even if the team should take a step back next season. Negatives: Prospects pool is rather shallow and only having three picks this season means they will need to look elsewhere to improve the team as the young prospects continue to develop. Should take a step back next season and could be further set back if Jasper Davis @Josh decides to leave via UFA during the off season. Otis Boudreaux Jr @Otis Boudreaux Jr(4-10-14pts)and Zyn Westwood @Sullvino(16-18-34pts) will also be looking for extensions keeping the GM @thadthrasher busy this off season. 12. Predicted Placement: 5th North American Conference 11th League Positives: Top 5 defenseman in scoring Rex Wolffe Gregor @oilmandan(27-52-79pts) and Strong rookie season from Severus Targaryen @Banackock(22-36-58pts), Toby Kadachi @ROOKIE745(6-7-13pts) and Simons Worst Nightmare @zepheter(6-36-42pts). Prospect Spanish Moon Moth (STO) @Renomitsu(46-46-92pts) should be ready to join the roster next season. Negatives: Aging players on the roster in goaltender Clueless Wallob @DMaximus (2.94GA & 0.926%) and defender Scoish Velociraptor Maloish @youloser1337(13-42-55pts) will need to be replaced sooner than later. Not to mention retirements to Calen McKay @Kendrick(2-17-19pts) and Svatopluk Puk @Otaznik(34-37-71pts) leave the team looking to UFA market and the draft to find replacements but they don`t have much draft stock. It could be an interesting off season as Seattle needs to decide to either start a full rebuild or retool with veteran players. 11. Predicted Placement: 2nd North American Conference 7th League Positives: Most of the team returns next season and had solid goaltending from Merome Dilson @MexicanCow123(2.39GA 0.923% & 3SO). Managed to salvage the season by sneaking into the final wildcard spot in the North American conference and anything can happen as long as you make the play-offs. Still a young developing team so should only get better. Calgary has draft stock even if it is later in the three rounds and could be used to boost the future roster via trades. Negatives: Lack of scoring production almost cost them this season so they will look for improvement next season in the scoring department with most looking at Randy Bobandy @AJW(30-29-59pts), Sadie St-Louis @sadie(26-22-48pts) and Oreo McFleury @JB123(26-28-54pts) for these improvements but also expect them to look for help via trades. Calgary will also need to look at rebuilding the defense as they have a season or two left with Malum Maellard @frescoelmo(7-56-63pts) and Phil Strasmore @Phil(8-32-40pts). AirRig GoodBrandSun @Rhynex Entertainment(10-25-35pts) is set to retire at the end of the season even further complicating the back-end. 10. Predicted Placement: 3rd North American Conference 8th League Positives: Enter the play-off as one of the hotter teams in the final week and had a strong season from The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath (44-49-93pts) and Vincent Laroche-Gagnier @vincentlg2007(35-43-78pts); both returning for at least another season with the Dragons. Jason @Jason kranz(44-45-89pts) also had a strong season and places D.C. in a difficult situation to try to resign the star forward or let him walk as he enters his finals season. Solid young defensive core lead by Mark Calaway @Beketov(15-52-67pts). Prospect Theo Allard (COL) @InstantRockstar(14-29-43pts) should be ready for the VHL next season. Negative: Will need to add a veteran presence on the back-end next season as Ryuji Sakamoto @der meister(9-51-60pts) is set to retire at season end and will look to boost the goaltending as Geoff Bezos @Quik(2.55GA, 0.927% & 4SO)is also looking for an extension. While they have a ton of prospects, they will look for some of them to take large steps in the next few seasons. 9. Predicted Placement: 6th North American Conference 14th League Positives: Scotty Sundin @fromtheinside(49-63-112pts) had an amazing season for a team that really had no business being in a play-off position yet making the play-offs. Goaltender Ryan Artyomov @Enorama(2.78GA, 0.926% & 2SO) had an amazing rookie campaign and should have heavy consideration for Rookie of the Year honors. Dank Turtle @DankTurtle(13-29-42pts), Legacy Gaming @Gaming Ringleader(39-47-86pts) and Tullemore Dew @Spade18(8-19-27pts) all had strong sophomore seasons and should be part of the core moving forward with new prospects joining the roster next season in Joshua Schwarzer (COL) @Velevra(35-38-73pts) and Lionel Collberg (COL) @Masu Chan(17-46-63pts). Two first round picks in the up-coming draft should add more overall depth prospects to the roster in a few seasons. Negative: Retirement of Scotty Sundin @fromtheinside will have the biggest impact on the team as they look for someone else to replace the offensive numbers. Stronger than expected season also means expected disappointment next season when they take a step back but this could be softened if they retool with veterans during the off season. 8. Predicted Placement: 3rd European Conference 3rd League Positives: John Jameson @Frank(46-45-91pts) and Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide(32-53-85pts) had good season with Jameson top 10 in scoring. Goaltender Matt Murdock @Acydburn(2.48GA, 0.929% & 5SO) had strong second half of the season and almost led them into a wildcard spot. Kyle Toms (VAS) @Ktoms22(28-38-66pts) looks ready to replace retiring zack martinez @Sam_19(10-20-30pts) and defender Conference Prince-de-Galles (ROM) @UnkemptCL4PTP(20-42-62pts) will give the team options when it comes to back-end next season and if they extend Faith Hope Love @MMFLEX(6-30-36pts). Full complement of draft picks so they should have a solid pick this season and continue to add to future or have resources to trade in a retool. Negative: With most of the roster returning it is hard to see this team missing the play-off again next season but a retool is not far away with all three of the forwards set to retire in the next season or two. Which is also the similar for the defensive core so the question is when do they start the rebuild or do they try to retool? 7. Predicted Placement: 5th European Conference 6th League Positives: Great offense led by the retiring Landon Wolanin @jacobcarson877(53-48-101pts), Daryl Dixon @Ricer13(30-63-93pts) and Kronchy Kardashian @Garsh(31-45-76pts); the later showing that he is ready to lead the Titans as true number one defender making Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito(14-72-86pts) expendable? Fuukka Rask @Jubis(2.55GA, 0.925% & 5SO) took a step in the right direction in becoming a solid starting goaltender setting career best across all stats. Strong Sophomore season from YaBoi Oven @Doomsday(11-27-38pts) will see him looking for big role next season and a strong rookie season from Tommy Sleeves @dasboot(4-9-13pts); which Helsinki hopes continues develop into a solid depth defender in the near future. Grimgor Ironhide @FrostBeard(35-47-82pts) is more than ready to make the move to the VHL and the Titans next season (my early favorite for the ROY in S92) Negative: Snuck into the play-off otherwise it would have been a disaster of the season for the Blue & White team from Helsinki with Landon Wolanin @jacobcarson877 set to retire; Helsinki will need to look for someone to replace his offense. Add in aging Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito and Chip Stone @DoktorFunk(26-40-66pts); this teams are looking at a bit of a re-tool in the off season. 6. Predicted Placement: 1st North American Conference 5th League Positives: Goaltender Joel Castle @animal74(2.06GA, 0.938% & 3SO) had a slow start to the season but simple was fire down the stretch as he finished the season top 3 in goals against and save percentage, top five in wins and top 10 in shut-outs; while leading the Legion to the best goals against in the league. Jimi Jaks @ke1vi(39-42-81pts) and Mac Atlas @v.2 (46-42-88pts) still in their prime and still under contract for another season. Another strong season from Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer(10-56-66pts), who Toronto hopes will take another step forward in becoming a true number one defender for the team. Still have their first-round pick so they can use that asset to help retool. Negatives: Will need to address secondary scoring as Tomas Sogaard @Brandon(30-30-60pts) and Dens Oden @Snussu(16-43-59pts) retire. No prospects ready to join the roster means that they will need to look to the UFA or trade markets to retool the roster; made harder with an estimated eleven million after they extend Diego Machado @Dadam30(18-32-50pts), Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr(24-31-55pts) and Montgomery Burns @LastOneUp(16-29-45pts) , who are all looking for new contracts. 5. Predicted Placement: 4th European Conference 4th League Positives: Long term extension of Yaroslav Bogatyrev @Bojovnik(40-42-82pts) and the return of Henry Eagles @Greg_Di(42-54-96pts). Viktor Jensen @Advantage(25-50-75pts) continued development and solid defensive core of Skor McFleury @Alex(22-67-89pts) and Jacob Stone @scoop(17-52-69pts). Solid bounce back season after disappoint S90 and missing the play-offs. Negatives: Cap will be an issue with Henry Eagles @Greg_Di, Skor McFleury @Alex, Ronald Johnson MacWallace III @RJMW(8-26-34pts) and Yaroslav Trunov @qripll(34-40-74pts) all looking for new contracts so they will need to figure out the cap to bring back most of the current roster. Maybe a slight re-tool but no major repairs needed. 4. Predicted Placement: 1st European Conference 1st League Positives: Second best goals against in the league only behind Toronto led by Jesse Teno @aimkin(2.02GA, 0.937% & 6SO), who should be in the running for an award or two at the end of the season. Two top ten scorers in Molly the Cat @JCarson(52-55-107pts) and Leonard Triller @Triller(24-79-103pts), both of whom should be returning for next season. Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ(44-52-96pts) did okay coming over to provide more offense for the United. Negative: Lack of secondary scoring after Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ, Molly the Cat @JCarson and Leonard Triller @Triller with the next closest 46pts behind; this will need to be fixed. Defense needs a complete retool with Deron Nesbitt @AW13(7-29-36pts) and Hunor Solyom @solyom(3-37-40pts) retiring. Add in Sjin @Sjin(21-23-44pts) and Thor Odinson @GoalPlays(8-6-14pts) looking for new contracts and half the roster is set to change. It will be an interesting and maybe stressful off season in London. 3. Predicted Placement: 4th North American Conference 9th League Positives: Powerful offensive attack with three players over a hundred points in Sunglasses Joyo @JetsGoalie101(35-72-107pts), Todd Cooke @KRZY(43-62-105pts) and Larry Abass Jr @RileyL(46-55-101pts). Continued development as true number one defender by Elias Lampi @Pifferfish(18-64-82pts) and solid secondary scoring by Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher(38-41-79pts) and Adam Rage @MrMom(29-36-65pts). All leading to the best offensive team in the league. Top team in the North American Conference, home ice advantage and will look to run it back to the Finals again this season. Negatives: Goaltender Art Vandelay @Gustav (2.41GA, 0.928% & 6SO) was rather mid when compared to his counter parts around the league while tied for most shut-outs this season. He will need to be much better if Los Angeles is going to make a run at the Continental Cup and not be swept in the Finals for a second straight season. Age as this truly looks like the last kick at the can situation with half the team set to retire in the next two seasons. They can still run it back for another season if they think they can win but it would lead to a very long rebuild. Salary cap might be a bit of a concern but overall, I think they should be able to manage it. 2. Predicted Placement: 6th European Conference 10th League Positives: Never really expected to be Cinderella of the league as most had predicted this team to retool with prospect ready to join the team next season as they currently have an aging core led by AK92 Wit da Hoodie @hedgehog337(50-47-97pts), surprise signing Babay Shrimp @Blazzer(25-66-91pts) and Sock Monkey @chikn(34-48-82pts). Better than expected defensive numbers from retiring Brian Kowalski @Wheaties(15-55-70pts) and James Marino @Adrest245(9-49-58pts) that seen this team play competitive hockey all season and surprise the European Conference. Prospect ready LW - Eric White Jr (COL) @Mysterious_Fish(20-40-60pts), RW - Mclean Hoover II (ROM) @McLean Hoover(24-33-57pts), LW - Martin Kemp (COL) @leafsman(14-15-29pts), D - Mina (BRA) @Baozi(21-51-72pts) and goaltender Red Panda (BRA) @Lemorse7(2.91GA, 0.928% & 1SO) meaning the future is bright for Riga. Add in two first round picks this season and this team is set for a retool rather than a rebuild. Negatives: Only two players signed for next season will see the team very active in the off season as they try to extend players around what should be a rather young developing core. How they rebuild the team will play a huge role in how much the team falls back next season assuming they aren`t next season Cinderella again. 1. Predicted Placement: 2nd European Conference 2nd League Positives: Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg (55-57-112pts) had an amazing final season and tied for the league lead in scoring while leading the league in goals. Alfred Champagne @Anthique(39-41-80pts) improved his numbers for the second straight season and will be looked upon heavily in the future as someone needs replace Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg offensive numbers. Jake Thunder @Thunder(16-68-84pts) will finish his career with HOF aspirations after another strong season will see him nominated for a few awards. Lachlan Summers @kirbithan(2.24GA, 0.933% & 5SO) continues to be a top five goaltender in the league even after a slower than normal start to the season. Negatives: Consistent talk of rebuild by the GM @Alex will not happen as long as they have Lachlan Summers @kirbithan on the roster. Retool is more likely as they look for replacements for retiring Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg , Pete Mitchell @Crstats23(33-35-68pts) and Jake Thunder @Thunder but with estimated thirteen million and David Jokinen @Ahma(13-43-56pts) ready to take over number one defensive duties; this really shouldn`t be an issue. Summary of the season: Really unpredictable season with Chicago and Riga really having strong season. Death Conference in Europe seen the defending Champions miss the play-offs on the last day and last game of the season. Unexpected strong offensive season from Los Angeles Stars and great defensive efforts from London United and Toronto Legion. It really is setting up for an interesting play-offs and an interesting off season. What a great seasons!!
    21 points
  11. Victor

    FREE TPE!!!

    In honour of your overlord's (that's me) birthday, everyone who likes this post gets 1 TPE. #teepz #lovevictator #tpeinflation
    20 points
  12. Good Afternoon everyone, So as you guys saw there were two postings to hire a new GM for Chicago and for Helsinki. Please join me in thanking @JeffD and @Rayzor_7 for their work as GMs of their respective franchises. So now you're all wondering who it is we've hired as the new GMs. Please congratulate
    20 points
  13. So the season has begun, and to the notice of many Warsaw has not started off well. Dealing with the slander and criticism each day is tough but I won’t let some of you assholes win and bully myself out of the position, I’ll tank for 20 more seasons if it means I don’t let them win. I understand now why Cow in the most recent case, stepped down from his position in New York. It is so much easier to throw this criticism and meme on the decisions of a GM than it is to receive them. I feel I definitely played a part in destroying his mental state as a GM by joining in on the meme and joking about his time as a GM. But this is just my thoughts so far into the season, I will refuse to give up until at least TDL, if you were in my locker room you would know how much effort I’m putting in to try and make this a competitive team. Anyways I’ll get into what I wanted to write this article about, kind of justifying my decisions (some bad yes) but also how Warsaw semi got screwed over in our rebuild process on part of myself and other factors. I took over Warsaw a few seasons ago, was handed a playoff caliber team with many notable players, made the playoffs twice but lost the 1st round each time. After that I blew up the team to try and get picks. S87’s draft was the last remnants of what previous GM Dlamb had set up. 2 1st round picks and 2 2nds for a draft that would go 4 rounds. From that I selected Hannibal Barca (206tpe), Tim Riggins(182tpe), Mac Dre (128tpe), and Tyler Swift(161tpe). Not terrible picks for the time, though the callup minimum then from the VHLE was 350 so a little ways to go. Now forgive me my memory isn’t entirely clear but in the S88/89 drafts Warsaw didn’t really have many early round picks, I believe I was trying to still fight for the team to stay competitive with the roster I came into. If you’d like to know that story line and are more interested in digging it up then me, please go for it. Season 90 now, Warsaw headed into the draft with 2 1sts, 2 2nds, and 2 3rds. Sure the 2nds were relatively late but not a terrible draft stock to have in the history of VHL drafts. From that we drafted Maxim Anisimov (311tpe), King Kisslinger (261tpe),Jorji Costova(176tpe), Joseph Jec(226tpe), Aeschylus Jigglejawns CXXXVII II(128tpe), Joseph Dubois (180tpe), and a couple other players but I’m not looking to go past the 3rd right now. The draft would go 4 rounds, we’d snag a few hopefully franchise players that would spend some development time in the E so that we could go for another high pick the next season. S91 was a very good draft to have 1st round picks in if you wanted a high earning player, I could’ve drafted myself, however I felt Warsaw was lacking future depth to back up the cornerstone pieces we drafted the season before. Therefore I traded away 2oa to go back to 13oa and pick up 2 2nds. In terms of picks that draft Warsaw had 1 1st, 4 2nds, and a high 3rd. From that we would draft Spanish Moth (292tpe), Behrens Minion(214tpe), Jacob Smith Jr (155tpe), Dietrich Reingaard (131tpe), Pipo Popa (195tpe), and Anasari Reingaard (121tpe) in a draft that would only go 3 rounds. This in this most recent draft Warsaw traded away 2oa for my own player (2oa the season before lol) and had 3 2nds in total for a draft that would literally only go 2 rounds (not even). If you haven’t caught on the what I’m trying to get at don’t worry here it is. In the time Warsaw went into a rebuild the quality of draft classes/picks decreased so much. In total over the season’s covered if I did my math right Warsaw had 5 1sts, 11 2nds, and some other amount of 3rds (didn’t calculate since i didn’t include it in every season covered). In past seasons that kind of draft capitol would be pretty impressive. But on my own part and to the shrinking classes most of the picks just didn’t pan out. So now this leads me to the future picks. I wanted a short sort of buy while future big player such as myself, anisimov, and the king finished getting up to that sort of top player tpe range. I brought it Wallob, Champagne, Rex, Maple, some players that if I can figure out how to put together, might get the job done and make the season a little bit more fun. After this past draft having only 2 rounds I was less than enthusiastic for seasons to come, especially with the state of recruitment. Yes I knew there was a recruitment drive coming well in advance to where I didn’t have to make these decisions to sell my picks, but having been on the wrong side of quite a few failed ads the prospect of “oh this ad is coming out and is going to be different than the last few” didn’t excite me. So essentially I bet on the ad panning out to around the same amount of recruitment as the past few. That bet has obviously not played out and you could say I’ve lost. I still have hope in my team, like I said I will not give up. Many people have asked me if because of these moves I will be stepping down after the season, I will absolutely not. Like I said earlier fuck all of you that criticize me and meme on my team, I’m not going anywhere and will tank until S200 if I have to. Members of this league can be such assholes to the GM’s. Yes I’ve made bad moves, but in my opinion it’s just the perfect shit storm of poor recruitment and my own decisions. I have no one other than myself to blame for the state of the team, nor would I try to pawn it off on anyone else. But to the members that are constantly, daily, after each sim, and each move, in every thread, criticizing me, fuck off. You’re destroying the morale of a highly productive member of this league and despite wanting more members, try to destroy the loyal ones. That’s all.
    19 points
  14. With the S90 regular season in the rearview mirror, some teams shift focus to a playoff run while others - those in the rebuilding state - will instead shift their focus to draft day. The S91 VHL Entry Draft will feature a solid crop of young prospects looking to take the next step in their hockey careers, including a surprisingly large presence from Greenland. Let's take a look at the upcoming draft's top-20 ranked prospects and how they fared during their S90 campaigns. Notes: TPE counts are as of the week ending September 24th. the "Central Scouting Rank" is just rank by TPE. The "Victory Prospect Network Rank" also mentioned is slightly different ... partially based on earning rates & partially just changed up for fun, because strictly ranking by TPE is kind of boring. @N0HBDY Central Scouting Rank: 1 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 1 One of the S90 draft's three S91 prospects playing in the VHLE this season, Reingaard found himself buried in the lineup of a very strong team and averaged just a little over 8 minutes of ice time per game. Reingaard finished the season with just 3 goals and 4 points in 72 games, but the fact that a draft-eligible player even managed to get into the Vasteras lineup this season is generally seen as a positive. Reingaard is a good skater who is strong on his skates, has an excellent shot, and has no discernible weaknesses in his game - he has even begun to evolve some face-off ability to potentially play centre at the next level. Reingaard's lack of production should not scare teams off; expect him to hear his name called very early in the S91 draft. @Renomitsu Central Scouting Rank: 2 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 2 Spanish Moon Moth spent the year with the Bratislava Watchmen and managed to carve out a regular role, finishing up the season with 27 points, 210 shots, and 132 hits. Moth is particularly responsible defensively for a draft-eligible player and used that defensive acumen to fit right in at the VHLE level. Moth has good offensive instincts, but compared to top prospect Reingaard, is a little better defensively but a little worse offensively. @Daniel Janser Central Scouting Rank: 3 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 3 The big Swiss-born defenseman Callum Gary Yannick Janer is your prototypical old-school defenseman - physical, nasty, and excellent defensively - blending in some mobility that renders him a royal pain in the butt for VHLM forwards to try to get around. Janser's 48 points is a relatively middling total compared to some of the other draft-eligible defensemen that played in this league this year, but that's because it's not Janser's game - he is clearly the most advanced defensive defenseman in this year's draft class; those 48 points were just a bonus. Piling up a whopping 260 hits, no forward wants to be tasked with entering the zone on Janser's side, and his playstyle will surely serve him well at the next level. @FrostBeard Central Scouting Rank: 4 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 4 Ironhide might not be the top-ranked prospect on this list, but if we were going just based on the draft year they just had, he would certainly be the first player off the board. The 6'8, 250 pound monster left a trail of destruction in his wake at the VHLM level this season, leading the league with 55 goals, 125 points, and 522 shots. Goaltenders were not the only victims Ironhide claimed as he also racked up 203 hits. At the S90 VHLM awards, it's a sure bet that Ironhide will hear his name called a few times. @Zetterberg Central Scouting Rank: 5 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 5 The second Reingaard on the list, Reingaard is the most offensively gifted of the three defensemen you'll find at the top of this year's draft class. Reingaard is definitely on the small side (5'9 165) but possesses plenty of talent to make up for it. Reingaard's good all-around offensive skills are highlighted by excellent vision that saw him register 65 assists this year. Despite that, he's plenty comfortable in his own end too, posting a +51 rating for the Marlins while also blocking 132 shots. @McWolf Central Scouting Rank: 6 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 6 With Janser and Reingaard, Sunset Moth completes the trio of defensemen that will come off the board very early on in this draft. Like Janser, Moth is excellent defensively but not very developed offensively, however, unlike Janser, Moth is pretty small and lacking in physicality. That said, Moth was the only member of the S91 draft class to secure big minutes in the VHLE this season, taking a regular shift in Bratislava's top-4 and tallying 44 points in 72 games to go along with 143 hits and 167 blocked shots. @ROOKIE745 Central Scouting Rank: 7 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 9 Toby Kadachi is a big forward with some fire to his game. You'd like to see a little more focus to his game - Kadachi really his no weaknesses, but no particularly standout strength - perhaps an above average shot is his calling card. What you do have in Kadachi is a big body that isn't afraid to play the game on the edge. If he does continue to develop his skills, Kadachi is a high-upside player who has some qualities that are a little more rare at the VHL level than just your stereotypical two-way scoring forward. @Velevra Central Scouting Rank: 8 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 8 Schwarzer was lighting up the VHLM with Houston (25 points in 16 games) before the rebuilding Bulls sent him packing to a contender in Saskatoon. While Schwarzer's production declined a little bit after the trade, he benefitted overall from playing with better teammates and more structure in his game, and still fired off 378 shots while putting up 73 points, becoming a key player on a strong playoff team. Schwarzer is a shoot-first guy who has good hockey IQ and defensive ability, though skating and puck handling are areas that he will need to develop in moving up the VHL ladder. @InstantRockstar Central Scouting Rank: 9 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 11 The Halifax 21st were not a particularly strong team this year, but that was through no fault of Theo Allard's. A lot was asked of Allard, and he delivered, breaking the 100-point barrier while firing 420 shots on net. Allard is a little light for his 6'3 frame but you wouldn't know it watching him protect the puck as he's very difficult to separate from it. He has also become one of the VHLM's premier face-off guys. Allard will need to develop a little more defensively and is notably a bit of a poor distributor of the puck for a #1 centre, but in general, he has a lot of great tools and should be a mid-first round pick. @Baozi Central Scouting Rank: 10 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 12 Mina is a phenomenal skater and perhaps the most offensively-gifted defender in the draft class; a small but absolutely electric player who was asked to do a lot with relatively minimal help for the Kings this year. Piling up 10 goals and 63 points on a team that didn't do nearly as much scoring as the VHLM's powerhouse teams (Mexico scored just 151 goals), Mina will be a high pick just based on that offensive dynamism, but ultimately will need to get stronger and better defensively in order to make a huge impact at the VHL level. @Masu Chan Central Scouting Rank: 11 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 10 Lionel Collberg's offensive numbers are outstanding - 25 goals and 92 points is a remarkable season for anyone at the VHLM level, not just for a defender. Collberg also tallied 239 shots, 160 hits, and 194 blocked shots while playing over 31 minutes a game for the Miami Marauders. Collberg doesn't jump into the play like Mina does which looks a little less flashy but is more conducive to being available to defend if the play goes back the other way. Collberg's game is actually quite reminiscent of fellow Greenlander, and fellow S91 d-man prospect, Leif Reingaard. @Spartan Central Scouting Rank: 12 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 7 Syko led the VHLM in wins, goals-against-average, save percentage, and shutouts - a remarkable feat of excellent netminding. The Marlins did a good job keeping Syko's shot totals low, but nevertheless, you have to make the saves and Syko did a phenomenal job of that. Syko actually plays a little smaller in net than a lot of the S91 goalie prospects and that is something that coaches will try to adjust as he transitions to the VHL level down the road, but Syko is disciplined in his style with excellent reflexes and rebound control and the results are self-evident. @Lemorse7 Central Scouting Rank: 13 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 13 The Hounds and Marlins duked it out for first place throughout the VHLM season, and their goaltending situations rhymed as well, with Red Panda coming up slightly behind Syko in most stats but still putting together a clearly dominant campaign between the pipes. Their styles do have some contract to them, as Panda's biggest weakness is rebound control, which may be Syko's biggest strength. Panda does, however, play bigger and more aggressively in net with excellent reflexes, and might be better at making the initial save. @KaleebtheMighty Central Scouting Rank: 14 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 14 There are a trio of pretty similarly-ranked goaltending prospects in the S91 draft and Vidarsson, the third of the three, comes in as a something of a hybrid of Syko and Panda. Vidarsson's a bit more well-rounded with no glaring weaknesses, yet comes in a touch below Syko in rebound control and a touch below Panda in raw athleticism. Yet another Greenland-born player pushing for a first round selection, this 6'7 222 pound goalie covers a ton of net and had a strong VHLM campaign in his own right with 44 wins and a .907 SV%. @Rin Central Scouting Rank: 15 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 17 Generally when you see a defender of Kagamine's stature (5'5, 140) you're looking at an offensive dynamo along the lines of #10-ranked prospect Mina. That is absolutely not the case with Kagamine, who plays a very steady and conservative game but is an excellent defensive player. Kagamine uses a good stick and gap control to keep plays to the outside and is surprisingly strong, but will still need to prove that there won't be an issue handling bigger-bodied VHL forwards when they get going in the offensive zone in order to smoothly transition to the next level. @Berocka Central Scouting Rank: 16 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 15 Mattias is an interesting prospect: he's a straight-up sniper and, at this point in time, doesn't have much else of a toolkit surrounding that shot - hence being limited to just 10 goals and 19 points in the VHLM this year on a strong San Diego team. Mattias is not particularly good defensively, nor a good skater or puck-handler. Shooting, though? That he can do. Mattias might even have the best shot in the draft class. This is a player who works hard, though, and there is reason to believe the rest of the game might come around. If it does - especially with the premium placed on goal scoring at the VHL level - you have a darn good player here. @UnknownMinion Central Scouting Rank: 17 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 18 A number of highly-ranked S91 prospects congreated on the same few contending teams in the VHLM this year. Minion, on the other hand, was more of a big fish in a small pond for the Philadelphia Reapers. He took on every role he could handle and thrived, scoring 49 goals, 103 points, and even posting a +19 rating with 186 shots and 72 blocked shots - numbers that will even make Minion a candidate to get some votes for the VHLM's Best Defensive Forward award this off-season. Minion has undeniable vision and scoring touch, but may need to develop his puck handling to consistently beat defenders at higher levels. @ShawnGlade Central Scouting Rank: 18 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 19 Tending the nets for the Miami Marauders this year, Slezak may find himself in a bit of an awkward position given the number of highly-ranked goaltenders in this year's draft, but no doubt there is a VHL-calibre goaltending prospect in here. Another of the more balanced netminder types, Slezak posted a .906 SV% and leads Miami into the post-season with some expectation of a playoff run ahead of them. @tcookie Central Scouting Rank: 19 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 16 Rave is a big-bodied scorer that stepped into a second-line role on the contending Marlins and put up a surprisingly consistent season playing a variety of different roles. He became a reliable face-off man and penalty killer while maintaining a PPG pace right from the season's first game, finishing up with 74 points and 344 shots. Rave has come a long way in his one VHL season to be knocking on the edge of the first round, and if he continues to improve, he could be a sneaky good pick in this range. @SirRupertBarnes Central Scouting Rank: 20 | Victory Prospect Network Rank: 20 With 36 points and a -44 rating, Woodworth's VHLM campaign maybe didn't go quite as smoothly as he or the Kings would have liked, but there is a talented offensive player here with good skating and a good shot that he isn't afraid to use. Woodworth's main weakness is that he has some defensive deficiencies in his game that will need to be addressed if he is to one day earn VHL playing time, but for a projected second-round pick, he's definitely got talent. --- 2300 words + stats, will use this for 4 weeks
    19 points
  15. Graphic credit @v.2 Welcome to the S88 Power Rankings Tracker! The VHLM Power Rankings Tracker is back baby! I hope to continue where I left off back in S81, and if you want a flash from the past the S80 and S81 Trackers will be posted below. I know these used to bring some excitement to the VHLM so I hope everyone is excited for more Please let me know in the replies any suggestions of what to add to these, I am open to anything. S80 Power Rankings Tracker S81 Power Rankings Tracker Hope you all enjoy! Note: Stats and Standings are updated as of Sunday, April 23rd. Current Rank: 1 Record: 23 - 8 - 5 Last 10 Games: 9 - 1 - 0 Place in Standings: 1 Standout Player: Ross Glagau @Zetterberg 22 wins, 0.917 SV%, 2.42 GAA in 35 games played The Mexico City Kings have been sitting on their thrones as the team to chase this season in the VHLM. After losing the Founder's Cup Finals prior in S87, the Kings haven't missed a stride since and look to punch their ticket back to the playoffs with ease this season. Mexico's power 3 of Justin Williams @JCV, Alex DeLuca @Deluca, and Noel Roux Jr @Da Trifecta all find themselves in the league's top 5 of either goals or assists. Mexico also has veteran Ross Glagau @Zetterberg in their final VHLM season returning between the pipes to shut everything down. This team is looking strong and dangerous, seemingly front runners of winning the Prime Minister's Cup for a second season in a row. What is in the way to stop them? The Mississauga Hounds who the Kings are currently 2-5-0 against. If Mexico can figure those Hounds out, it should be smooth sailing ahead. Current Rank: 2 Record: 22 - 11 - 3 Last 10 Games: 5 - 4 - 1 Place in Standings: 2 Standout Player: Reginald the Dodo @Esso2264 15 goals, 34 assists, 49 points in 36 games played With a pretty mediocre last 10 games played, the Mississauga Hounds still easily deserve to sit at number 2 in these rankings. Acting as Mexico's father this season, although Mississauga has been hovering just under Mexico City for the top of the standings, Mississauga has beaten the top seed in 5 of 7 matchups so far. The Hounds bring intense depth to the table with 7 rostered skaters achieving over 30 points in just 36 games played. Reginald the Dodo @Esso2264, Mclean Hoover II @McLean Hoover, and Robert Boldy @The Goblin all have surpassed 40 points, with Dodo and Hoover sitting in the league top 5 in points, Dodo also leads all defensemen in points. This team is stacked and will be a cup contender for sure. Does this team have an Achilles heel of their own? Of course they do! San Diego has bullied Mississauga in their 3 game regular season series so far, winning all 3 matchups. San Diego is 1 point shy of Mississauga and could be a problem for the Hounds down the stretch. Current Rank: 3 Record: 22 - 12 - 2 Last 10 Games: 7 - 2 - 1 Place in Standings: 3 Standout Player: Sjin @Mint 25 goals, 32 assists, 57 points in 36 games played The Marlins are playing like the S86 Marlins again! This San Diego Marlins team is not one to overlook. With 25 goals, 32 assists and 57 points in 36 games played, Sjin @Mint has been dialed in and creating majority of San Diego's offense. When Sjin has their night's off though, league leader in Wins, SV%, and GAA Olivier Gauthier @fonziGG is there to mimic a literal wall in the crease. Gauthier has been a nightmare for goal scoring teams giving San Diego the least GA in the league with 89 goals against in 36 games played. San Diego is the last of these top 3 teams who I truly believe have the best chances of winning the Founder's Cup right now. San Diego has been struggling with Mexico this season though, so each one of these three teams has some figuring out to do to decide who takes it home. Current Rank: 4 Record: 20 - 12 - 4 Last 10 Games: 5 - 5 - 0 Place in Standings: 4 Standout Player: Pope Francis @nurx 11 goals, 32 assists, 43 points in 36 games played The Halifax 21st in my eyes are the most underrated team in the league. Pope Francis @nurx has been controlling the 21st’s blue line all season, ranking second in league defensemen points, leading in shots blocked, and third in hits. Francis has been the fuel that started this Halifax flame. Francis does not do it all though, while Francis works the point, Tullemore Dew @Spade18 has been creating most of Halifax’s offence this season while being second in the league in points. Halifax may not have the most capped players, but this team sure knows how to play together as a team and their record shows. Halifax is my favorite under the radar team heading into trade deadline and I am excited to see how @ShawnGlade plays his cards. Current Rank: 5 Record: 19 - 15 - 2 Last 10 Games: 8 - 2 - 0 Place in Standings: 6 Standout Player: LeBen Aky @Ben_Reformed 18 goals, 25 assists, 43 points in 36 games played The Philadelphia Reapers after a quiet start to S88 have recently turned the tables and won 8 of their last 10 games. This team is on the rise with arguably the best goalie duo in the league. Karl Herzlich @LastGoon007 is at the heart of the operation as Philly’s main starter for the beginning of S88, and recent pickup Jeffrey Blake @ElementStyx9 who could start for basically any other team in the league as backup, will split games with Herzlich down the stretch. Philadelphia’s offense is run by 4th season veteran LeBen Aky @Ben_Reformed, and after that the depth starts to fade away. Philadelphia’s biggest problem heading into these playoffs is their current quantity over quality of players. Behind the blue line they are set, but when you look at the forwards you see a lot of talented players who are just too underdeveloped right now. For a cup to come back to Philadelphia this season, that forward core either needs to shake up or wake up! Current Rank: 6 Record: 18 - 13 - 5 Last 10 Games: 4 - 5 - 1 Place in Standings: 5 Standout Player: Nick Sansoe @Tipskid97 13 goals, 27 assists, 40 points in 36 games played The Miami Marauders are slowly entering the “mid” category of this league. With an impressive start to the season, Miami’s on a bit of a bumpy road currently in their last 10 games. Nick Sansoe @Tipskid97 and Sergei Romanov @WithARevelYell have been leading the way for Miami with 40 points each on the season. This team just really lacks depth though! When you go down the list of goal scorers, in my eyes you spot only four for Miami. With AGM jose avocado @Bobo starting in net now for the Marauders, hopefully we can see some changes to recent results and an upcoming roar for Miami! The Marauders currently sit third last in goals for, only ahead of Saskatoon and Ottawa, so bringing in another forward who can score could be the missing puzzle piece to Miami's S88 story. Current Rank: 7 Record: 17 - 16 - 3 Last 10 Games: 4 - 6 - 0 Place in Standings: 8 Standout Player: Viktor Jensen @Advantage 20 goals, 17 assists, 37 points in 36 games played The Houston Bulls have been hovering around the middle of the pack throughout the entire first half of the season. Currently 8th in the standings, the Bulls are hanging on decently strong to a playoff spot, 7 points ahead of Saskatoon. Viktor Jensen @Advantage, Erik Andersson @Ace, and Devon Giguere @omniscius in net have been a few bright spots in Houston's mediocre season so far. Although the Bulls have seen a tough schedule, playing 19 out of 36 games against Mexico City, Mississauga, and San Diego who all sit top 3 to lead the league standings. With more teams around .500 in their future schedule, the Bulls could potentially climb the standings heading closer to the Trade Deadline. Until then, Houston needs to put in the work unless they want to see their rivals again in Mexico City in the first round of playoffs. Current Rank: 8 Record: 16 - 13 - 7 Last 10 Games: 5 - 3 - 2 Place in Standings: 7 Standout Player: Ronald Johnson MacWallace II @RJMW 20 goals, 27 assists, 47 points in 36 games played The Las Vegas Aces continue to figure out their season reaching the halfway point. The Aces enjoy a record above .500, but find themselves 7th in the league standings. Las Vegas relies on their scoring from 5 main skaters who all have surpassed 40 points already. MacWallace II @RJMW leads the way for Vegas with 47 points, followed close by stud defenseman Leo Lewkowicz @BeanSobie who sits top 3 in league points by defenseman. Vegas has just recently found a starting goaltender in Linden Moore @orbit who should provide some security in net each night. The Aces still have a good shot at being great and this should be decided very soon. Las Vegas hopes to build stronger in order to repeat their Founder's Cup successes not too many seasons ago. Current Rank: 9 Record: 13 - 19 - 4 Last 10 Games: 0 - 7 - 3 Place in Standings: 9 Standout Player: Darko Alexander Malkovich @AColdCanadian 5 goals, 30 assists, 35 points in 36 games played The most hated team by STHS this season award goes to… the Saskatoon Wild! The Saskatoon Wild recently came off an upsetting S87, which led them to a spectacular draft in S88. Saskatoon has built a tight core of talented skaters but only one has over a point per game so far this season. Their goaltending is the weak spot of this franchise and I believe that if Saskatoon can trade for a playoff ready goaltender then we will see them in a first round matchup. For this to happen multiple players need to step up. Tord Yvel @Trazan, 5th overall Wild draft pick under a point per game, Otis Boudreauz Jr @Otis Boudreaux Jr 21st overall Wild pick under a point per game… the list goes on, but as these players keep earning TPE, and Saskatoon’s depth starts to shape up, then this team will be ready to roll. Current Rank: 10 Record: 10 - 24 - 2 Last 10 Games: 3 - 5 - 2 Place in Standings: 10 Standout Player: Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr 12 goals, 14 assists, 26 points in 36 games played It is never fun being at the bottom of the barrel, and the reigning Founder's Cup Champions are feeling that pain right now. The Lynx are currently going through a rebuild season and hope to make a comeback in S89 with a loaded draft class upcoming. Ottawa has still seen some recent success though and have four players over 30 points in 36 games played. Lucky Mitts @Gmoneyman52 leads the team in goals with 14 and points with 35, and Michael Perk Lund @YourSweetBaboo has been finding their legs as the team's starter with 2 shutouts already this season. Ottawa has a bright future to come and can hopefully fight their way to a playoff spot this season. Current Team Versus Standings Halifax Houston Las Vegas Mexico City Miami Mississauga Ottawa Philadelphia San Diego Saskatoon Halifax 1 - 1 - 0 4 - 1 - 0 2 - 1 - 0 2 - 0 - 0 0 - 2 - 0 3 - 1 - 1 3 - 5 - 0 1 - 0 - 3 4 - 1 - 0 Houston 1 - 0 - 1 1 - 2 - 0 2 - 4 - 1 0 -1 - 1 3 - 3 - 0 3 - 1 - 0 2 - 1 - 0 3 - 3 - 0 2 - 1 - 0 Las Vegas 1 - 3 - 1 2 - 1 - 0 1 - 2 - 1 2 - 1 - 1 2 - 1 - 0 2 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 2 1 - 3 - 1 4 - 2 - 1 Mexico City 1 - 1 - 0 5 - 1 - 1 3 - 1 - 0 2 - 0 - 1 2 - 5 - 0 2 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 3 - 0 - 1 4 - 0 - 1 Miami 0 - 1 - 1 2 - 0 - 0 2 - 2 - 0 1 - 2 - 0 1 - 2 - 1 5 - 1 - 1 3 - 2 - 0 3 - 3 - 1 1 - 0 - 1 Mississauga 2 - 0 - 0 3 - 3 - 0 1 - 2 - 0 5 - 1 - 1 3 - 1 - 0 1 - 0 - 1 3 - 1 - 0 0 - 2 - 1 4 - 1 - 0 Ottawa 2 - 3 - 0 1 - 3 - 0 0 - 1 - 1 0 - 2 - 0 2 - 4 - 1 1 - 1 - 0 1 - 5 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 2 - 4 - 0 Philadelphia 5 - 1 - 2 1 - 2 - 0 2 - 1 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 2 - 3 - 0 1 - 3 - 0 5 - 1 - 0 2 - 2 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 San Diego 3 - 1 - 0 3 - 3 - 0 4 - 1 - 0 1 - 2 - 1 4 - 3 - 0 3 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 1 2 - 2 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 Saskatoon 1 - 3 - 1 1 - 0 - 2 3 - 3 - 1 1 - 4 - 1 1 - 1 - 0 1 - 4 - 0 4 - 2 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 0 - 1 - 1 Player Leaders Player Goals Player Assists Player Points Player Defensemen Points Player Shots Blocked Player Hits Sjin 25 Leo Lewkowicz 38 Sjin 57 Reginald the Dodo 49 Pope Francis 115 Juan Ceson 156 Sergei Romanov 22 Tullemore Dew 38 Tullemore Dew 56 Leo Lewkowicz 46 Darko A. Malkovich 108 Fradin McGryer 135 Mclean Hoover II 22 Alex DeLuca 37 Justin Williams 51 Alex DeLuca 45 Marty Byrd 97 Pope Francis 125 Goalie Leaders Goalie Wins Goalie SV% Goalie GAA Goalie Shutouts Olivier Gauthier 22 Olivier Gauthier 0.921 Olivier Gauthier 2.39 Jonny Elgar 3 Ross Glagau 22 Jeffrey Blake 0.917 Ross Glagau 2.42 Michael P. Lund 2 Jonny Elgar 22 Ross Glagau 0.917 Johnny Elgar 2.6 Olivier Gauthier 2 Graphics Shout outs I have been loving the graphics this league has been pumping out and I figured here should be a perfect place to showcase my favourite graphics of the week from the VHLM. Enjoy! Lich King - @Zetterberg Hali Hali Hali - @v.2 Dominick Kopecky - @DustyMclaren First Weiss Sig - @jfaly
    19 points
  16. With the VHLM draft quickly approaching, I spoke with the VHLM GMs and asked them a few questions about their thoughts and goals for the future. 1. What are your goals for the upcoming draft, and the season beyond? Miami’s GM @Ricer13 is looking for long-term success. To do that he is looking to build his asset pool to gain future assets. With nine picks in the draft, four being in the first two rounds, there will be plenty of assets to work with. @Dadam30, GM of the Saskatoon Wild, hopes to put together a contending team this season. They are poised for the future as well, with plenty of draft picks to work with. With 10 picks in the S93 draft, there is plenty of capital for both the present and the future. The San Diego Marlins would love to draft players who are active and willing to learn. GM @Mysterious_Fish is looking for someone who can contribute in the locker room as well as on the ice, with a willingness to develop being a key to their success. The Marlins only have one early round pick and five total, so it seems development for the future is the key goal going forward. @Grape's Ottawa Lynx want to compete now. They have 12 total picks in the upcoming draft and are looking to make some splashes that will help this season and extend beyond S93. The goal for the Lynx is to cultivate a consistent competitive mindset for seasons to come. S93 is GM @JCarson first draft as Mexico City King’s GM. He told me that his goal for the season is to build a balanced team in the draft. He wants to be able to compete early on, but also be developed to be stronger in the playoffs. Mexico City holds a pick in each of the seven rounds of the draft so they can most certainly build a well-balanced team with those options. For GM @LucyXpher and the Halifax 21st the goal is simple, use their early picks (two first rounders and two seconds, nine total) to select players who can play at the top of the lineup now. Halifax is looking for players that are reliable to compete for the full 72-game schedule but is hoping to find some late round talent with potential that can be fostered for seasons to come. They are not only looking for the obvious talent but also the diamonds in the rough who are really pushing to make a name for themselves in their early career. The Mississauga Hounds GM @Nathan_8's goal in the draft is simple: build a good team with the picks available. There is potential to also move down in order to grab more picks. He believes with the draft capital at his disposal he will be able to do just that. After a heartbreaking loss in the finals, @McLovin and the Las Vegas Aces are gearing up for a long and hard rebuild. With more later picks than early ones, the Aces will have to get lucky with a gem in the later rounds to kickstart the rebuild process. Next is last season's Founder's Cup champs, the Philadelphia Reapers. GM @Lemorse7 is planning on making a splash in the draft to keep the Reapers' winning ways going. Although they only have five total picks, they have one in each of the first two rounds and have retained three players from last season so it isn't totally out of the question. Seeing as they need a decent goalie to make sure that happens, I expect a possible focus on doing just that. Last but certainly not least, GM @AJW with the Huston Bulls. He believes the success of a team is built from within. With so much uncertainty throughout the VHLM season, the Bulls look for a winning mentality over pure skill. If the players they draft are active and willing to put the work in, he thinks anyone can come out as a champion. Surprisingly (or maybe not so surprisingly) AJW was quoted saying "Rebuilding/waiting for the future is BORING!!!!", so I think it's safe to say he's planning for the present above all else. 2. Who do you think will be the #1 pick and why? It seems the GMs of the VHLM don’t have a consensus pick for #1 in the draft. Some names were thrown around, but they all seem equally likely to be picked first overall. Of the names mentioned, there were: Felicia Hardy @JCarson - There was a gut feeling behind Hardy being the first pick in the draft. The big defenceman played 20 games with San Diego last season, shelling out 16 hits and blocking 28 shots. Tyler Lawson @Nyx - If he chooses to stay in the VHLM, Lawson is one of, if not the best centre in the draft. He has a big shot and “high offensive upside” as quoted by one GM. A point-per-game player last season with 56 points in 56 games, any team would be ecstatic to have the offensive prowess of Lawson. Jillian Woods @jacobcarson877 - Jillian Woods is one of the only players remaining in the VHLM who has 200 TPA. A two-way defenceman, Woods can be effective at both ends of the ice. 3. What do you look for in a potential draft pick? What are your intangibles? What the GMs are looking for in a potential draft pick is fairly consistent across the board. First and foremost, activity in the forums and on the Discord is completely necessary. They recognize that without this, there is little to no improvement. Staying active will show the GMs that you’re willing to put the work in to earn that precious TPE every week. Most are compassionate, understanding there is a world outside of the VHL that takes priority, but when building a team to win, activity is the highest indicator of an up-and-coming star. The next most important piece of the puzzle seems to be attitude. GMs want to see that a potential draft pick can fit in with their team in the locker room. The goal ultimately is to have fun and create an atmosphere that encourages that. Players that exude that energy are generally gravitated toward because they improve the experience for the others around them as well. While the process to earn the TPE to be a star can be a long one, players who understand that and embrace it will catch the eye of GMs throughout each of the leagues. Lastly, what players do to earn TPE and how they go about it is significant to the GMs that I spoke to. They want to see a variety of point tasks attempted to see that all avenues are being used to improve their players. A player who participates in trivia and press conferences each week is much more valuable to a GM than one who ignores them or completes them sporadically. It is understood that every player doesn’t inherently know how to do everything on arrival in the VHL, but it is recognized when an attempt is being made to take the initiative and learn. This tends to be a good indicator of what they’ll become early on in their career. Overall, this is shaping up to be an exciting draft! I had multiple people tell me how deep it is and how likely it may be to find a diamond in the later rounds. For all the draft hopefuls, whether you’re the first pick or the last, keeping up with your point tasks and staying active will most certainly make a name for yourself quickly in this league. Even if you can’t tell, the GMs are keeping a close eye on everyone and making very informed decisions, so keep up the good work! EDIT: I would like to source that I took some of my research from @Grape's article overviewing each team leading up to the draft so I'd like to give him credit: Good luck to all the players and GMs participating in the S93 VHLM draft! (1345 words) Claimed week of 03/17 Claimed week of 03/24
    18 points
  17. Spartan

    S93 VHLM GM Hirings

    Hello all, Once again, we have come to a situation where we are hiring more GMs than we initially expected. First of all, congrats to @Tetricide who is leaving Miami to lead the Prague Phantoms in the VHL. We are also saying goodbye to @vincentlg2007 who is stepping down from Mississauga due to irl priorities. We appreciate both of them and their work in the role, along with the previously mentioned @hylands and @ShawnGlade. Before we get into hirings, we'd also like to note that @Ricer13 was brought in mid-season in S92 to step in as an interim GM for Saskatoon. He will be remaining with us as a permanent GM for S93, but will be changing teams based on our overall hirings. Without further ado, here are all of our S93 VHLM GM hires and team changes: Congrats to all our new GMs! Looking forward to working with you all to continue to improve the VHLM and the new player experience!
    18 points
  18. Acydburn

    Prague's New GM

    Evening! So with myself stepping down, we needed to replace the GM of Prague. With that said, please help me welcome
    18 points
  19. With the VHLM regular season in the rear view mirror and the second round of the playoffs getting underway, gazes begin to shift toward the Junior Showcase Tournament-- an opportunity for those players who are eligible for the Season 93 and 94 VHL and VHLE entry drafts to put their skills on display and show scouts and general managers what they can do. After last season's JST was canceled because of a lack of eligible players, the tournament is back this season and bursting with talent after an influx of new players who entered the VHLM in Season 92. While the VHLM is a league that allows players to cut their teeth, the JST is where players bare their fangs, sharpened and glistening white. After a full season of development, players will be eager to prove themselves against the top talents in their draft class. Some players will be coming off of a disappointing season or a difficult playoff loss and will be seeking a shot at redemption. Others will be out to prove that their regular season or playoff success was not accidental, but repeatable, even in a different environment with different teammates. Unlike an All-Star game where there is nothing on the line, the players in this tournament have their futures to play for. Playing a great tournament could see a player's draft stock rise, while a disappointing showing might plant seeds of doubt in the minds of scouts and general managers looking to build their team in the upcoming drafts. Whichever way you look at it, the JST is a fantastic opportunity for draft eligible players to stay active during the offseason as it gives players more motivation to continue training and developing their skills. The tournament is also an excellent opportunity for some up and coming GM prospects to gain invaluable experience building and managing a roster. It is a tournament of opportunity, but it will be up to those involved to make the most of it. Without further introduction, let's dive into the rosters of the five teams that will be taking part in the tournament. Here, I'll give you a preview on what to expect from each team, some storylines to follow, and who might be the early favorite to win the tournament. I'll also give you my shortlist of players who might have a little something extra to prove in this tournament. These will be players to keep an eye on as the games begin. *Note: Teams are ordered alphabetically and players are sorted by position and TPE. --- Brigade: GM @samx, AGM @LucyXpher Forwards: LW - (S93) Chris Reynolds Jr. @Crstats23 72GP - 29G - 42A - 69P LW - (S93) UghSike @UghSike --> 72GP - 28G - 32A - 60P LW - (S94) Maverick Goncalves @leandrofg 20GP -2G - 2A - 4P LW - (S94) Pombo @samx 20GP - 1G - 0A - 1P C - (S93) Tyler Lawson @Nyx 56GP - 20G - 36A - 56P C - (S94) Pierre Marc Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito 18GP - 7G - 7A - 14P C - (S93) Micah Cederbaum @MicahC 48GP - 1G - 1A - 2P C - (S94) Tommy Shelby @Will RW - (S93) Armas Jortikka @Kavadar 44GP - 16G - 14A - 30P Defense: D - (S93) Lucy Leitner @LucyXpher 72 GP - 16G - 60A - 76P D - (S93) Wladyslaw Mintus @mintusaurus 60GP - 9G - 31A - 40P D - (S93) Masa Akimoto @Hokikeijot 48GP - 5G - 18A - 23P D - (S93) Connor Mclaughlin @Connor Mclaughling 62GP - 7G - 12A - 19P D - (S93) Landon Flatt @Lando10 72GP - 6G - 26A - 32P Goalie: G - (S93) Kendra Cavill @Firekiss 60GP - 22W - .893 SV% - 3.54 GAA - 2SO G - (S93) Da TypThond @Erik 11GP - 6W - .897 SV% - 3.18 GAA The current GM of the Helsinki Titans, @samx offered her services and expertise to manage the Brigade in this season's Junior Showcase Tournament when the team needed a last minute replacement. Up and comer, @LucyXpher, joined up as the AGM partway through the draft to fill out the team's front office. On paper, the team is a collection of solid players--though perhaps not flashy-- some of whom might have been undervalued in the JST draft. A good number of these players saw limited ice time in secondary or depth roles for their VHLM clubs this past season, but could be primed to take a leap forward with more opportunity. Up front, the Brigade will feature two strong left wingers in Chris Reynolds Jr. and UghSike, with further depth at the position in Maverick Goncalves and Pombo. One of these players will likely need to play on their off wing or at center, however, as it is not likely the team will ice four full forward lines-- at least not to begin the tournament. Tyler Lawson had an exceptional year in Houston in a secondary role and will look to shine in more minutes with the Brigade in this tournament. Pierre Marc Bouchard is also a coveted prospect who could see some serious development, even over the course of this tournament, making him a good value pickup with a rising ceiling. On defense, the Brigade selected Lucy Leitner with the 3rd overall pick and did well to add quality in Wladyslaw Mintus, Masa Akimoto, Connor Mclaughlin, and Landon Flatt. With increased ice time and greater responsibility, these defenders will be called upon to elevate their game from their VHLM level. There was a run on goalies early on in the JST draft that left the Brigade digging a little deeper for options. Ultimately, they would settle on Halifax's number one goalie, Kendra Cavill, who had a fairly strong season despite being on a weaker team. With control of the net and competitive teammates, Cavill will be a goalie to watch to see whether or not they can measure up to the likes of Lovstrom, Vencko, and Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen. On paper, goaltending may be a more obvious weakness for the Brigade, but there's a reason the games are played and Cavill will certainly have something to prove. If all else fails, the Brigade selected Da TypThond as their second goalie who had a respectable record, albeit in limited ice time this past season with Las Vegas. --- Royals: GM @horoscope, AGM @Mysterious_Fish Forwards: LW - (S93) Forum Content @frescoelmo --> 72GP - 41G - 64A - 105P LW - (S94) Wally Lose @youloser1337 20GP - 3G - 7A - 10P LW - (S93) Kevin OConnor @Luke033 72GP - 15G - 38A - 53P C - (S93) Antonia Bucatini @CowboyinAmerica --> 72GP - 38G - 43A - 81P C - (S94) The Phantom of the VHL @Hogan 16GP - 4G - 3A - 7P RW - (S93) Annie Oaks @Noodle Enjoyer --> 72GP - 41G - 54A - 95P RW - (S93) Steve French @Seabass 72GP - 43G - 46A - 89P RW - (S94) Maple Dogwood @dogwoodmaple 18GP - 7G - 7A - 14P Defense: D - (S94) Felicia Hardy @JCarson 20GP - 0G - 1A - 1P D - (S94) Toby Cook @KRZY 20GP - 5G - 6A - 11P D - (S93) Magni Jinn @DontCallMeCarson 72GP - 16G - 59A - 75P D - (S93) Enn Jinn @jhatty8 72GP - 21G - 68A - 89P D - (S93) Pinn Jinn @Eagle Eye 72GP - 13G - 37A - 50P D - (S94) kevin jonathen @meandyoc Goalie: G - (S93) Herald Benson @Benson 29GP - 13W - .892 SV% - 3.3 GAA - 1SO G - (S93) Samuel Wazinski @samthemancub 64GP - 35W - .904 SV% - 2.91 GAA - 2SO For the Royals, @horoscope is on his first tour of duty as a general manager and has brought along San Diego Marlins GM, @Mysterious_Fish, to be his AGM. On paper, it seems that the management duo has done well for themselves, securing top players at each position. The question with this team will be whether these players can reproduce their VHLM success in this tournament. With a potential top line of Forum Content - Antonia Bucatini - Annie Oaks, the Royals have ensured that they will not lack firepower. With Kevin OConnor and Steve French also added to the forward corps, they will undoubtedly be a frightening group to go up against. The Phantom of the VHL might also be a bit of a sleeper pick who can punch above his weight in terms of draft position and I would probably put Wally Lose in that same category. On defense, Magni Jinn, Enn Jinn, and Pinn Jinn might be the team's top defensemen in terms of scoring track record as they were among the VHLM's top defenders. There is some concern, however, that their numbers may have been slightly inflated playing on a Reapers team that was clicking all season long. Conversely, it should not be discounted that these three were also highly instrumental to their team's success and deserve credit for this as well. It remains to be seen how the defensive depth chart will shake out for the Royals. It is a real possibility that Felicia Hardy and Toby Cook may end up as the top pairing on this team, despite only having a combined 12 points in 40 games last season compared with the 214 in 216 by all three Jinns combined. In goal, the Royals, like the Brigade, missed the early run on goalies. That said, they were able to secure Herald Benson, one of the best backups in the VHLM last season, and he will surely be looking to prove he deserves a starting job going forward. Despite lacking the pedigree of Vencko in Houston, Benson actually held his own in the head to head battle for the crease for most of the season, and only fell behind the Czech down the stretch. The Royals also picked up another capable goaltender in Samuel Wazinski, who backstopped the San Diego Marlins to 35 wins in 64 games this season, recording 2 shutouts along the way. --- Steel: GM @dstevensonjr, AGM @Pifferfish Forwards: LW - (S93) Filip Zinek @FiZi 72GP - 21G - 27A - 48P LW - (S93) Elf shoes @ELF_SH0ES 72GP - 11G - 18A - 29P C - (S93) Vanuza Kolesinska @chikn 72GP - 31G - 48A - 79P C - (S93) Taylor Swift @lilchrist 70GP - 34G - 51A - 85P C - (S93) Aiden Paige @Apaige131 56GP - 6G - 18A - 24P C - (S93) Jacob Longstreet @Dynamicmlb_42 26GP - 1G - 2A - 3P RW - (S93) Trimiskez Artav @jake 72GP - 43G - 45A - 88P RW - (S93) Jack Dickens @Mystery_boy98 64GP - 10G - 10A - 20P RW - (S93) Cole Stermer @Bazeus 38GP - 7G - 18A - 25P Defense: D - (S93) Benjamin Abenduct @Schnee 68GP - 23G - 58A - 81P D - (S93) Gul Dukat @MSouthworth 72GP - 18G - 47A - 65P D - (S93) Blaze Thunderstrike @eaglesfan036 44GP - 4G - 24A - 28P D - (S94) Lazlo Holmes @Gustav 14GP - 6G - 9A -15P D - (S94) Donald Carlson @AW13 18GP - 2G - 6A - 8P Goalie: G - (S93) Ondrej Vencko @Mutti 50GP - 27W - .892 SV% - 2.94 GAA - 1SO G - (S93) Austin Goulet III @Tuchy 42GP - 14W - .886 SV% - 3.46 GAA The Steel enlisted @dstevensonjr to take the helm as a first time general manager, along with @Pifferfish as his assistant. Despite this being his first kick at the proverbial can, the Steel GM demonstrated his overall preparation and shrewdness with the first overall pick, wasting little time taking the top rated defender, Benjamin Abenduct. Knowing that high-end defenders would be in short supply, the Steel made a smart move and got their guy. With a keen eye on the Houston Bulls talent pool, the Steel would go on to select Trimiskez Artav, a high scoring right winger, Filip Zinek, Jack Dickens, and goaltender Ondrej Vencko. These 5 Bulls fill important roles on this Steel roster and it will be interesting to see if their chemistry can carry over from the VHLM. Besides ZInek, Artav, and Dickens, the Steel took a top center in Vanuza Kolesinska and bolstered their center depth chart with Taylor Swift and Aiden Paige. These players should offer them a quality one-two-three punch down the middle of the ice and will be flanked by the aforementioned Bulls. The Steel also drafted another center, Jacob Longstreet, but it remains to be seen if he will be called upon to play as a winger or stay at his natural position. This will ultimately depend on how many lines the managers elect to send over the boards. On defense, Abenduct is paired with a friend of his in Gul Dukat, and it seems likely that the two will become a formidable top pair for the Steel. I have to think that the Steel knew this when drafting them and it may be an important piece of scouting that really pays off for them in this tournament. Blaze Thunderstrike is a good option on the second pair along with Lazlo Holmes who is off to a torrid start to his career. Donald Carlson has also impressed in limited VHLM games and may be an important contributor if given the chance on this Steel blueline. In goal, the Steel chose Ondrej Vencko. After Lovstrom, Vencko is considered by many to be either the second or third best goalie prospect in the VHLM and is currently leading his Houston Bulls into the second round of the playoffs. Vencko is more than capable of stealing games and is a stable presence in the net. Off the ice... well... stable is not exactly the first word that comes to mind. Let's just stick with presence... --- Warriors: GM @Nathan_8, AGM @Alex Forwards: LW - (S93) Jean-Pierre Devote @eagle_3450 --> 72GP - 52G - 54A - 106P LW - (S93) Connor simard @Alex99 46GP - 15G - 22A - 37P LW - (S93) Owen two @do3bo1 40GP - 3G - 9A - 12P C - (S93) French Fries @solyom 72GP - 16G - 35A - 51P C - (S93) Murray Connolly @Blakemac22 56GP - 2G - 16A - 18P C - (S93) Isaak Robinson @isaak 72GP - 15G - 17A - 32P RW - (S93) Yermolai Nabokov @fonziGG 72GP - 46G - 57A - 103P RW - (S93) Leon Bruhmaninho @BigBruhman --> 72GP - 26G - 44A - 70P RW - (S93) Ocean Codoller @FreshOceanCod 72GP - 21G - 36A - 57P RW - (S94) Donnis Orange Krupis @hedgehog337 Defense: D - (S94) Jillian Woods @jacobcarson877 20GP - 3G - 9A - 12P D - (S93) Ray Stanton @horoscope --> 38GP - 10G - 22A - 32P D - (S93) Carson Tripp @Cartripp14 50GP - 12G - 36A - 48P D - (S93) Zeal-Emiritus Fleming @FabioF04 72GP - 9G - 34A - 43P Goalie: G - (S93) Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen @Snussu 67GP - 39W - .905 SV% - 2.62 GAA - 1SO G - (S93) Alexander ovieckin jr @penguinb19 69GP - 27W - .868 SV% - 3.99 GAA - 1SO The Houston Bulls AGM, @Nathan_8, has taken the reins of this year's Warriors team with the experience of @Alex as his AGM. The Warriors took a swing for the fences with Jean-Pierre Devote at second overall and snagged Yermolai Nabokov with a subsequent pick. The combo of Devote and Nabokov on the wings with French Fries in the middle is a mouth watering prospect. With depth centers Murray Connolly and Isaak Robinson flanked by Leon Bruhmaninho and Ocean Codoller, this is a team that will be able to boast depth in addition to its high end firepower. On the defensive side, the Warriors nabbed one of the top S94 prospects in Jillian Woods and added great value in Ray Stanton, Carson Tripp, and Zeal-Emiritus Fleming. While most of these defenders have proven to some degree that they can play important minutes for their clubs, it remains to be seen if any of them can take command of a top 2 role and become a true top defender that catches the eye of scouts. At the goaltending position, the Warriors selected Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen as their starter. With this pick, they bought themselves some peace of mind between the pipes, banking on AKK's track record and high pedigree. While his VHLM numbers haven't necessarily measured up to where some expected him to be going into the season, I think it's also safe to say that the Mexico City Kings would not have achieved their 3rd place finish without his solid play in goal. This tournament will be a great opportunity for him to show his true quality and really make a push to move up the goalie rankings for the upcoming drafts. --- Yukon Rush: GM @UnknownMinion Forwards: LW - (S93) Gianfranco Del Rocco @Victor 72GP - 31G - 33A - 64P LW - (S93) Miner vHLer @Rhynex Entertainment 72GP - 5G - 7A - 12P C - (S93) Walter Jinn @Adrest245 72GP - 34G - 46A - 80P C - (S93) Caleb Nowell @PhoenixsPc 70GP - 13G - 37A - 50P C - (S93) Gavin Bebard @Gavin Bebard :mis: 60GP - 16P - 29A - 45P RW - (S93) Nathan Ecker @Nathan_8 :hou: 72GP - 25G - 23A - 48P RW - (S93) Oliver Loo @Peiffy :mia: 48GP - 6G - 4A - 10P RW - (S93) Anthony Simmons II @Starchychaff :mis: 38GP - 18G - 20A - 38P RW - (S93) Marek Nowaczyk @Chillybro :mis: 47GP - 15G - 12A - 27P Defense: D - (S93) WWumbo @Fire Tortorella :ott: 72GP - 14G - 50A - 64P D - (S93) Cody Toland @ctoland102 :hou: 72GP - 8G - 27A - 35P D - (S93) Billy Joel @The goat of hockey :sdm: 72GP - 6G - 14A - 20P D - (S93) Russell Sprout @betta57 :sdm:-->:ssk: 72GP - 9G - 37A - 46P D - (S93) Phil Taylor @Legacy :mis: 60GP - 13G - 27A - 40P Goalie: G - (S93) Jorgen Lovstrom @Pifferfish :phi: 62GP - 48W - .918 SV% - 2.34 GAA - 3SO G - (S93) Connor Hellebuyck @HockeyFan4Life :mex: 6GP - 2W - .887 SV% - 3.43 GAA For the Yukon Rush, @UnknownMinion leads the way as a GM with some experience. He previously spent one season as the GM of Halifax in the VHLM, one season as GM of Geneva in the VHLE, and two seasons as GM of Bratislava in the VHLE. His resume also boasts a Gold Medal in the WJHC with Team World. In this season's JST, he has compiled an intriguing roster of players that includes the top goalie in the VHLM in Jorgen Lovstrom. Securing this pick early on in the draft gives the Rush a huge advantage in goal as Lovstrom has displayed remarkable consistency throughout the entirety of the VHLM regular season and into the playoffs. There are many who believe that much of the Philadelphia Reapers' success this season is owed to his calm command of the goal, giving his team the confidence to take risks and produce in front of him. His numbers are head and shoulders above the other goalies in the VHLM and he leads the league with 3 shutouts and an impressive 48 wins. At the forward positions, the Rush can ice a potential top line featuring one of the top prospects in the S93 draft class, Gianfranco Del Rocco. He could be joined by Reaper's standout, Walter Jinn, and Bulls scorer, Nathan Ecker. This trio, though perhaps not as explosive as some of the others we've previewed, is not to be underestimated. Ecker has quietly built himself up in a depth role for the Houston Bulls and a stint on the top line for the Rush could be all he needs to catapult himself up the draft board. With the balanced skills of Walter Jinn down the middle and the high-end scoring prowess of Del Rocco, this could be a sleeper pick for one of the most productive lines in the tournament when it's all said and done. At defense, the Rush selected WWumbo as their top player and added two of the VHLM's most physical players in Cody Toland and Billy Joel. If he stays out of the penalty box, his physical play can quickly become an advantage as he wears the opposition down. Billy Joel, Russel Sprout, and Phil Taylor are also great value pickups in the later parts of the draft that could prove to be steals. --- Roster Power Rankings: With the rosters set, the tournament is only days away from puck drop. Based solely on the rosters available to us at the time of writing, I've put together an early power ranking of how these teams might stack up against each other. Please keep in mind that this is only my opinion based on the current rosters. These rosters are still subject to change as teams begin to sign free agents and play games. It's also worth noting that none of the teams have released any lineup information, so this is based purely on the apparent quality of the rosters you see above. Making this preliminary ranking was difficult because there is very little to choose between most of these rosters as they all seem to offer notable strengths and some weaknesses. This should make for a highly competitive tournament as the games get underway. 1. Royals The prospect of a Content-Bucatini-Oaks line is too tantalizing for me to rank this team any lower than first, especially considering they have OConnor, French, and the Jinns on defense. Herald Benson is probably the biggest question mark on this team for me, but I think he certainly has the potential to embrace this role and be a proper number 1 option. If Benson falters, Samuel Wazinski is also a very capable goalie, so I struggle to see how goaltending will be a serious issue for this team. 2. Steel If the Steel decide to play Kolesinska and Swift on the same line, I think they could probably boast the most complete starting lineup in this tournament with Artav joining those two up front and the partnership of Abenduct and Dukat locking down the back end. In goal, Ondrej Vencko is about as good as they come... if you don't have Lovstrom, that is. 3. Warriors The headline here is Devote and Nabokov with a side of French Fries. Actually, French Fries is the centerman. This line alone is worth the price of admission to see this team in action. Add AKK in goal and this team has the makings of a contender. I've got the Warriors ranked 3rd because I think the Steel have an edge on defense, especially with their top 2, but I could see this Warriors defense rounding into form very quickly. 4. Yukon Rush Turns out having one of the top draft eligible skaters and the surefire top goalie in the VHLM doesn't guarantee you top spot in the way-too-early power rankings, but I guess I just want to see this team in action before I give them their flowers. I think there are also some questions to be answered on the defensive end. 5. Brigade Last place or 5th overall? Either way, this is the team I am the least sure about in terms of day one performance, but it’s the one that I think may have the most sneaky potential to be better than we expected. With a number of S94 eligible selections who are developing rapidly, as well as top players like Reynolds Jr., UghSike, Lawson and Leitner, who will likely benefit from more ice time, it's difficult to predict what the ceiling is for this team. Goaltending may be the biggest question mark for the Brigade who are putting a lot of faith in Cavill with TypThond as a backup option. --- 3 Players With Something to Prove: 1. Kendra Cavill - Brigade: Of all the goalies picked, Cavill is the least known quantity. Because Halifax struggled throughout much of the VHLM season, it's difficult to separate the team's performance from Cavill's stat line. Cavill has shown examples of quality and ability evidenced by 2 shutouts this season. Even on a significantly worse team, that's more than Benson, Vencko, and AKK who each recorded 1 shutout this season. Cavil's .893 SV% is also comparable to the .892% held by both Vencko and Benson. It's not a lot to go on, but there are signs of a quality goalie here and Cavill will need to be sharp from the start to prove the doubters wrong. 2. Miner vHLer - Yukon Rush: They say defense wins championships, but does leadership? Miner vHLer is known to be an exceptional locker room presence, though his actual hockey skills leave something to be desired. He's come this far on the back of his morale boosting abilities, but it remains to be seen whether he can lead a team to a championship. He still has the chance to do it with the Houston Bulls as an Assistant Captain, but if he could prove his effectiveness in the JST, it could see his draft stock rise. At the moment, GMs are still unsure about his true value and likely won't risk a high pick on leadership personified. 3. Enn Jinn - Royals: After an 89 point season as a defenseman in the VHLM, you'd think that a player would have precious little left to prove. This isn't exactly the case with Enn Jinn whose true ability has been in question for much of Season 92. Is this remarkable run of form repeatable with new teammates? On this Royals squad, Jinn will have the familiarity of fellow Reapers teammates Magni Jinn, Pinn Jinn, and Maple Dogwood to lean on, but will need to find chemistry with new linemates quickly if he is to prove his detractors wrong. --- Well, that about does it for this JST preview. The tournament this season promises to be full of intrigue and opportunity for players to really set themselves apart, all that's left to do now is play the games! LucyXpher for VSN
    18 points
  20. I don't know about you all but my favourite time of year to be a VHL member is the holidays. From the charity drive to the auctions to the free TPE everyone loves the holidays in the VHL! This is officially the fourth year we've done this after @Banackock originally suggested it back in 2019 and we've chosen, as you can see above, Doctor's Without Borders to receive our charity donations for this year. This is, of course, just our league-supported charity. As always, you are free to donate your funds to any registered charity anywhere in the world and count it towards the auction and our total numbers; all we ask is a screenshot proving the donation (though please remember to redact any personal information). 100% of the money raised by the league will be donated to Doctor's Without Borders, and the VHL will not take any cut. On top of that the league has decided to once again match up to $1000 when the final donation is put in. That means if you all donate $2500 total we'll put the donation up to $3500! In addition to the Donation Drive, we will also kick off our Charity Auction and 12 Days of Christmas. How will it all work? Essentially the same as past years, but here are the exact details for each portion of our holiday season for 2023: Charity Drive: December 12th - 24th Starting tomorrow members can begin donating. Whether you do so through the league, by donating HERE, privately to DWB, or any charitable foundation of your choosing (receipt proof required for donations made outside the league), it will all count towards the overall contribution from the league. From that overall contribution, the league will match donations up to $1000 CAD, and add that to the donation made through the league. Please post all confirmations of donation, including Paypals through the league, auction wins, and private donations to THIS THREAD. Any donation of $5 CAD, or more, will result in an automatic personal reward of 2 Uncapped TPE + a Full Free Week (12 Capped TPE), as well as an entry to each of the first 3 tiers of the 12 Days of Christmas Raffle. Like past years as well we will be accepting blood donations in the charity drive. Blood is in high demand all year round, but especially at this time. Give the gift of life to someone. If you schedule and follow through with an appointment to donate blood that will count the same as a $5 donation and have the same rewards outlined above and below. For proof just post a photo from during your donation, it doesn’t need to include your face if you don’t want it to, a shot of the machine or your arm or whatever is fine, we’ll take your word for it. As this is the season of giving, members may also donate on behalf of one other user. Holiday Charity Auction: December 13th-20th @Acydburn will be posting the auction items soon but for now the full rules are available here. Go buy something fun offered up by our community members. Auction wins will count as personal donations for the purpose of individual rewards. As always there are some amazing auction items that we're looking forward to this year so it should be fun. 12 Days of Christmas: December 13th - 24th This year’s 12 Days of Christmas will be similar to the last two years, where there will be a daily thread to claim “tickets” into our final raffle, which will be drawn on a live stream. As always the raffle will contain 4 tiers of prizes, with each day contributing to your entry into each tier, as follows: Dec. 13 - 15: Post in the corresponding thread each day for an entry into the Tier 1 raffle (1 ticket gained per day) Dec. 16 - 18: Post in the corresponding thread each day for an entry into the Tier 2 raffle (1 ticket gained per day) Dec. 19 - 21: Post in the corresponding thread each day for an entry into the Tier 3 raffle (1 ticket gained per day) Dec. 22 - 24: Post in the corresponding thread each day for an entry into the Tier 4 raffle (1 ticket gained per day) Number of Winners per tier: Tier 1: 10 Winners Tier 2: 5 Winners Tier 3: 3 Winners Tier 4: 1 Winner As with all our previous raffles if someone is drawn twice they will be considered as having won the higher tier item and the lower tier will be re-drawn. Users may also claim any tier underneath what they have won if they would rather have that item. No rewards can be exchanged for cash but we will ship worldwide as @Berocka found out to the detriment of the league having to ship a jersey to Australia... Rewards and Donation Milestones As previously mentioned, there will be personal rewards to those who participate in the charity drive / holiday auction, as well as stretch goals to hit which will result in rewards for the community as a whole! $500 Community Donations: 2 Uncapped TPE for Everyone + @twists will stream a declaration of his love for everyone that's been active in the past week. $1000 Community Donations: 4 Uncapped TPE for Everyone + @DarkSpyro will perform some Christmas themed metal songs $2000 Community Donations: PT Doubles Week for Everyone + @Grape will do a full stream of all the Five Nights at Freddy's games. $2500 Community Donations: 6 Uncapped TPE for Everyone + @Acydburn will stream something, he just hasn't decided what yet. $3500 Community Donations: 8 Uncapped TPE for Everyone + @Beketov will once again stream Zoo Tycoon 2 Ultimate (which I'll have to re-install) and name animals after VHL members. Additionally, though not a "stretch goal" in the classic sense, for every $100 donated @eagle_3450 will do a lap of the Nurburgring in BeamNG.drive **Disclaimer: Rewards may only be applied to players created on, or before, December 25th, 2023** Let's do this @Members!
    18 points
  21. Hello VHL, Not even gonna bother with a members tag on this one since it's pretty minor stuff but for the sake of transparency I'm announcing it anyway; the @BOG is still tackling bigger problems but we do love to discuss random small stuff too. First up, goalies are just too damn good! Okay that's a bit of an exaggeration but because goalies weren't touched when we nerfed the meta and skaters got a bit worse they have been running away with things a bit more than historically. Save percentages have been climbing, Playoff MVP is almost a foregone conclusion, etc. We could change this with huge sweeping changes to goalie stats and adding hybrid attributes and all that, and that's still on the table for testing as a future option, but it's a bit more complicated than what we realistically need right now. From our testing we can bring goalie stats back down to more of historical averages, without making scoring go too insane, by simply adjusting the goals slider inside the sim. This means the amount of shots won't increase (at least not substantially anyway) but the amount of goals will. As always we aren't going to publicly reveal what our slider settings are but we felt like the league should at least know it's getting adjusted so they aren't confused as to why scoring increases. The slider change will impact all 3 levels of the VHL so the VHLE and VHLM will get it as well for consistency. Second, and this one honestly doesn't come up a ton but it's best to get it in writing: We are formalizing that during the week you re-create you are allowed to max earn (that's 12 capped TPE per week) on both your retiring player and your new player. The caveat to this is that you still cannot claim the same task multiple times. So for example if you have job pay and a media spot on your retiring player in a given week and you re-create you cannot claim that same job pay or media spot on the new player. You can write a new media spot, it doesn't need to be a different kind of task, but it needs to be a new task. Does that make sense? We've kinda been doing this for a bit anyway but there was some confusion around it so we figured it was best to clarify. Also, before anyone asks, for multi-week claims you can still use the same task but need to use a new claim week. So for example if you have a 2000 word media spot and you claim week 1 on your retiring player you can claim week 2 during the same week on your new player and then have 2 weeks left. Each claim effectively is just treated as a new task, the same as it is any other time. Like I said, minor stuff but there it is, enjoy. - @Commissioner
    17 points
  22. CIA’s Early, Probably Wrong S93 Mock Draft The playoffs are here, and that means the event that absolutely everybody is waiting for. No, of course not the playoffs, who cares about those? No, what everybody is really focused on is the VHL Draft, the illusion of hope that will inevitably crush 15 out of 16 teams each season. And this draft is a particularly interesting one. At the beginning of this particular draft cycle, there was a belief it’d be a weak draft year. There weren’t many recreating members, after all, especially with a few high profile S83 players instead preferring to take some time off before recreating. It also didn’t help that most of those early creates were all forwards, meaning there wasn’t going to be much variety at the top of the draft. Then, the deluge happened. Spurred on by a renewed recruitment drive on Youtube, new members began to enter in drove. The result is a draft with more first generation players than we’ve seen in any time in recent memory. And since many of those new members joined at the same time, there really isn’t much separating anybody in the draft. Indeed, as of Sunday, Feb. 18, there are fourteen players between 221 TPE and 199 TPE. Yes, that’s just 22 TPE, separating the fourth and seventeenth ranked players in the first round. In my opinion, that means this could very well be the craziest draft we see in a long time. It also promises to be the most unpredictable, and a lot is going to depend on unknown GM preferences and scouting meetings that haven’t happened yet. In fact, it would be a fool’s errand - downright irresponsible, in fact - to try and predict any of this before the lottery has even occurred. Luckily, downright irresponsible is why I’m here. Before I get into the mock, there’s two important things to keep in mind: 1. This is one person’s opinion, and I know nothing. I’m very purposefully not active on Discord outside of my locker rooms, so I don’t know who’s friends with who or player plans that may have been discussed on there. I’m making picks based on what I know and team fits. 2. If you’re dissatisfied with where I put you, please absolutely take it personally. It’s because I hate you, specifically, person I’ve never met in real life. Now with that in mind, let’s get to picking. TPE totals are as of Sunday afternoon. 1. Seattle Bears: C Antonia Bucatini, Houston Bulls, 354 TPE, @CowboyinAmerica I swear I’m not doing this to be conceited, and I think there’s a very good chance that Gianfranco Del Rocco is the first name on the draft board for a few lottery teams (more on that in a second). But I do expect Bucatini to be one of the top two, both because of the agency’s history and also the raw TPE total. As it relates to the Bears specifically, I’ll just say this: I’ve only actually created one forward before. That player, Gabriel McAllister, went first overall in S56 to the Bears and a relatively new GM named Bana. Four seasons later, Bana had his first title, and McAllister was named Playoff MVP. 2. HC Davos Dynamo: LW Gianfranco Del Rocco, San Diego Marlins, 327 TPE, @Victor The easiest pick on the board, put it in pen. While some drafts have surprises, I’ll be a bit shocked if myself and Victor aren’t 1-2 in some order. And while Del Rocco falls to Davos here, I wouldn’t be shocked if he was top on their draft board regardless. After all, Victor is a former Davos GM, many of his best seasons as a member were with the franchise, and Davos could be looking for new blood after having CIA’s Booberry just a few seasons ago. Plus, Davos actually has the best combined chance at the first pick in the lottery (32.5%), giving them a chance to make this a reality. 3. Vancouver Wolves: LW Forum Content, Miami Marauders, 221 TPE, @frescoelmo This is where I believe things start to get interesting. The easy pick would be winger Jean-Pierre Devote, who has the most TPE on the board. There’s also an argument for one of the more active first gen players who would provide a high upside. But I’m going with door number 3 in winger Forum Content. Fresco is one of the very, very few sim league members who have been around longer than I have (read: we’re old), and given past member history, there’s less of a chance of burnout than perhaps some of the newer members. The Wolves have their top-end talent from their host of S92 picks, what they really need are steady players to fill out the roster. Content certainly has the capability to be a star, but the high floor is even more important for me here. 4. Chicago Phoenix: LW Jean-Pierre Devote, San Diego Marlins, 276 TPE, @eagle_3450 Early on in this drafting cycle, Devote was promoting himself as a potential first overall pick. And while he may have fallen a tiny bit behind Bucatini and Del Franco in terms of training points earned, there’s still all the makings here of a potential star. That potential mixes nicely with what the Phoenix need here, because I view Chicago as the exact opposite of Vancouver: A lot of really solid players, but in desperate need of a high ceiling player who could be the leader of the team into a new generation. That’s also why I think some enterprising first gens could be in consideration here, but Devote’s TPE advantage right now and previous earning gives the advantage. 5. HC Davos Dynamo (from Warsaw): D Lucy Leitner, Houston Bulls, 215 TPE, @LucyXpher A lot has been made of Davos getting this pick from Warsaw, so what now will they do with it? I have two immediate thoughts: First that they may not want two forwards in the lottery knowing there will be many available later, and second that Alex is not a GM afraid of taking a chance on first gens. So with that in mind, we see a first gen off the board here in Leitner. One of those coming to the league early in the season, Leitner has been a revelation on the blue line for the Bulls, averaging more than a point per game. Their insightful articles have also been a revelation, and show someone both invested in the league and not as prone to potential burnout in what may be a longer Davos rebuild. 6. Riga Reign: D Benjamin Abenduct, Houston Bulls, 208 TPE, @Schnee The Reign are my single most intriguing team as we enter the draft. Barring a bit of lottery luck or playoff lack of luck, they have three first round picks that sit in the middle of the first round. That gives them an opportunity to take a few chances, or perhaps even trade up with a team that’s looking for more established players (Chicago?). But as I’m not predicting trades, I wouldn’t be surprised if Riga takes a similar tactic to Davos’ last pick and knows there are forwards later. Thus, Leitner’s linemate Abenduct is the pick, a first gen who has been a continuously strong earner since joining at the beginning of the season. With Cobalt Burns set to retire and new defensemen in the prospect pool, Riga desperately needs some youth on the blue line. 7. New York Americans: LW Chris Reynolds Jr, Houston Bulls, 213 TPE, @Crstats23 New York has a lot of offensive talent right now, but only one forward in their pool younger than S88 (last year’s first round pick Wayne Gretzky). So I’d expect them to go forward, and the third straight Bull to go off the board in Reynolds would seem to be a perfect fit. Reynolds’ agency proved to produce loyal players given Pete Mitchell’s eight seasons in Davos, something that relatively new GM STZ should value given that the Americans are still trying to build a new identity. Reynolds has also been a consistent earner, even if not always at the max, and the Americans have seemed to value long-term consistency as evidenced by the Gretzky pick. 8. Prague Phantoms: RW Annie Oaks, Las Vegas Aces, 206 TPE, @Noodle Enjoyer With Prague being eliminated in the wild card round, it would seem to be the end of an era. Four of their starters are retiring this offseason; stars John Jameson and Nikolas Kauppi are following next season. With a full rebuild potentially looming on the horizon, that screams to me a first gen who Prague can mold over time and serve as the centerpiece as more players come in with high picks in coming seasons. Between both Saskatoon and Las Vegas, Oaks has emerged as one of the VHLM’s top offensive talents and can be exactly that type of scorer Prague can build around. A perfect earner as far as I can tell, Oaks also has star upside to be the next in a line of top earners once Jamerson and Kauppi are gone. 9. Toronto Legion: D Gul Dukat, Miami Marauders, 199 TPE, @MSouthworth This is where the draft order could start to change based on the playoffs, and the Legion certainly wouldn’t mind picking last in the first round. But if they’re here, an infusion of youth into the defensive core is a must if they’re going to extend their window of opportunity. Dukat is the third of the three first gen defensemen I’d expect to go earlier than some may expect, providing high-level upside as long as their earning stays consistent. Much more of a defensively-oriented player than either Leitner or Abenduct, Dukat would also fit in nicely with a team that has high-profile scorers in Jaks and Atlas, but could use a bit more blue line strength. 10. Riga Reign (from London): LW UghSike, Miami Marauders, 202 TPE, @UghSike You thought I was going to pick a different forward here? Ugh, sike! (Sorry, it was the low-hanging fruit.) After going defense with the first pick, and with S91 draftee Red Panda fully entrenched at goalie, going forward with their next two firsts makes sense for the Reign. UghSike has been a consistent earner since joining, recently topping the 200 capped mark for the VHLM. And even if the points haven’t necessarily been there yet with Saskatoon or Miami, that will change in time as long as the TPE stays consistent. A good team/player fit, as Riga has had success bringing first gens along. 11. Riga Reign (from D.C.): RW Nathan Ecker, Houston Bulls, 199 TPE, @Nathan_8 And with the next pick, Riga goes to the opposite side of the ice, taking right winger Nathan Ecker. Another first gen who came in near the start of the season, Ecker started off slow for the Bulls but picked his game up near the end of the season, ending with 25 goals while playing on Houston’s second line. But more important than that is a desire to be involved with the league, as evidenced by a JST GM position. That portends good tidings for long-term league longevity, and once again Riga is a good landing spot for first gens. 12. Moscow Menace: C Tyler Lawson, Houston Bulls, 172 TPE, @Nyx I’m curious where Moscow would go: recreating members who might occasionally get welfare but provide consistent earning (Nabokov, Kolesinska, French), or a first gen who has a higher ceiling, but potentially a lower floor? But having two late firsts allows them to split the difference, and I’m predicting a newer member in Lawson here. Although Lawson joined a little later than some players who have gone already, only getting in 56 games with the Bulls, he nonetheless has been a consistent earner and quickly worked his way up draft boards. The Menace do have three young talented centers in Gunner, Ruutu and Richmond, but Lawson’s current build could easily be molded to play on the wing as well. 13. Moscow Menace (from Los Angeles): D WWumbo, Ottawa Lynx, 172 TPE, @Fire Tortorella What, you thought my returning player spiel in the previous section was just about forwards? The same logic could apply just as easy to defensemen - and perhaps moreso, given that Andersson isn’t too far from regression and Pereira is a semi-regular welfare earner. WWumbo may see some welfare himself, but in a defensive pool with less depth than forward, a consistent earner and VHL regular would be welcomed into Moscow. Just don’t hire Torts as the team’s coach. 14. Helsinki Titans: G Jorgen Lovstrom, Philadelphia Reapers, 202 TPE, @Pifferfish Wait, a goalie hasn’t gone yet? Yes, it’s a rough market for goalies this season for two main reasons. First, there are a few talented ones, meaning teams could feel they can afford to wait and not miss out. And second, five of the picks in the mid-first are owned by Riga and Moscow - two teams with young goalies of their own who aren’t looking for a replacement. But those factors are Helsinki’s gain, as they get a talented netminder in Lovstrom here. The goalie for the VHLM-leading Reapers, Lovstrom has shown he knows how to win - important for a Helsinki team that may be looking to extend its window even beyond Fuukka Rask’s retirement in two seasons’ time. 15. Malmo Nighthawks (from Calgary): RW Yermolai Nabokov, Philadelphia Reapers, 205 TPE, @fonziGG What do you get for the team that has everything? There are some talented goalies on the board, but Malmo has a few prospect goalies to replace Ash Sparks, including last year’s 10th overall pick Olafur Gunnleifsson. Defense is the strength of the team already with a few young players. So forward is where I’m going, and with a known member in Fonzi. Nabokov has a few welfare claims to his name, but the Fonzi agency has also demonstrated an ability to make strong players if motivated. Landing on the reigning Victory Cup champions would seem to be strong motivation, especially since it looks like the team’s core will continue winning for a few seasons. 16. HC Davos Dynamo (from Malmo): G Ondrej Vencko, Houston Bulls, 182 TPE, @Mutti With their two lottery picks in this mock, the Dynamo already selected a forward and a defensive player. So when entering the rebuild, what’s left? Why, a goalie of course? It’s a matter of preference between Vencko and Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen, but I’m going with the first gen here. Outside of one hiccup week, Mutti has been a consistent earner since joining the league on a youthful Bulls team, emerging as the lead goalie in the run to the five seed. The Dynamo certainly have no problem with first gen goalies (see: Lachlan Summers), and Vencko would be ready to go upon Summers’ ultimate retirement. Just missed first round: RW Trimiskez Artav @jake - Was on track to be at the top half of the lottery, but two welfare weeks followed by not updating this week worries me. Can get back to things quickly though. RW Miner vHLer @Rhynex Entertainment - I’m so excited to see how the build idea works. But with a lot of depth in the draft, I’m not sure teams would be as excited. C Vanuza Kolesinska @chikn - For teams wanting a consistent presence, Kolesinksa is your player. But I’m expecting more swings for first gens this draft. RW Steve French @Seabass - Same reasoning as above, though I’m curious whether the agency’s past association with Moscow means anything with their late firsts. G Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen @Snussu - Goalie is just going to be a tough position this draft with who currently holds firsts. But I’m sure someone like L.A. or London would love to trade back in to the late first and pick them up. D Ray Stanton @horoscope - My dark horse first round pick, given how many teams need defense. Has been a strong earner since joining mid-season, if the scouting interview goes well a team could swing for the high upside.
    17 points
  23. VHL All-Star Selection Idea Location To start us off, we'd have to find a place to hold this years all-star game, and what better place than to hold it in Los Angeles! The Stars currently hold the best record in the league, at 29-7-2, making them the host for the upcoming all-star game. I feel like if there were to be an event, the top seeded team in the entire league would always host the event, so this year it would be the stars. If there were a tiebreaker between the top seeded teams at the time decided for the location, you could just go based off of the usual tiebreaker rules to figure out who would be the host. Format Now, to get into the format. We would basically have the NA Conference vs the EU Conference, as that's the easiest way to divide up the teams in my eyes. Each roster would have 6 forwards, 4 defenseman, and 2 goalies. You would end up playing two games, one with each goalie so that the goalies both get to play in a game. The way rosters would be decided is each team sends a single player at 1st, which would then be 8 skaters for each conference. That would then leave 4 extra players for each conference, where I believe the top 2 seeded teams in each conference should get a 2nd player. This would then make it so each roster now has 10 players out of the required 12, so in this instance, the Los Angeles Stars and Calgary Wranglers get two players instead of one, same with the Malmo Nighthawks and Moscow Menace. The remaining 2 players for each conference would be decided on a fan vote, where the fans would elect who they would want to send to the all-star game. Again, it would cap out at 6 forwards, 4 defenseman, and 2 goalies, so you couldn't send for example 3 goalies or 7 forwards to make the roster ineligible. I feel like this is a great way to reward the top teams, as they get to send another player, while on top of that the community gets to feel involved as they get to send their favorite player potentially to the all-star game. Selections Now the best part, the selections. I will actually try my best to come up with some sort of mock all-star game rosters, but again, at this point, some teams have 39 games played while others have 40. For the fan vote, I'll just throw in whoever I would end up voting for. Without further adieu, lets get underway: NA Conference All-Star Selections C - Todd Cooke - 28G 25A 53P +22 - 39GP - @KRZY Todd Cooke is having an impressive season, having easily over a point-per-game for the best team in the league. A superstar centerman for Los Angeles and a big part of why they're winning, it would be an obvious choice to send Cooke to the all-star game. They are 5th in points and 2nd in goals, a great shooter than can leave the fans stunned, it would be a fantastic addition to Team NA. LW - Larry Abass Jr - 12G 32A 44P +26 - 39GP - @RileyL The second player I decided to go with is Larry Abass Jr. They are currently second on their team in points only behind Todd Cooke and seem to the playmaker for Todd Cooke. They have 32 assists and the best +/- on the team, with an impressive 124 hits. Abass Jr seems to be a physical playmaker that goes into the corners to help dig the puck out, to only then find Cooke for the finish. A great all around addition for Team NA at the end of the day. G - Merome Dilson - 25-10-4 .937 2.14, 5 shutouts - 39GP - @MexicanCow123 Merome Dilson is one of the top goaltenders in the entire league, not just NA. They've helped turn Calgary around, as last season was not the best season for Calgary fans. An impressive goaltender who is having a career high and doesn't seem to be stopping would be a huge addition between the pipes for Team NA. D - Skor McFleury - 12G 27A 39P +16 - 40GP - @Alex As both Calgary and Los Angeles get a second player, adding a solid defenseman in Skor McFleury is a no brainer. They currently are almost a point-per-game for Calgary and are 7th in scoring this season. An impressive skater with an accurate shot and just an all-around complete player will help solidify the blue line for Team NA. C - The Frenchman - 16G 40A 56P +12 - 39GP - @OrbitingDeath The Frenchman is almost a perfect no-brainer. They're an elite playmaker who can set up any goal scorer in the league, with the most assists in the league. They would fit perfectly with Todd Cooke, who can fire the puck from almost anywhere and find a way to score. A dynamic duo would get huge for Team NA and these two might just be it. G - WWWWWWW (not typing whole name) - 18-17-4 .940 1.91, 2 shutouts - 39GP - @rory The second goalie on this list is Rory's player. WWWWWWW has had an absolute crazy season, where he's single handedly helping the New York Americans get to a playoff spot. This guy is literally like prime Hasek, trying to carry his team to the playoffs, and he easily deserves a spot on Team NA. D - Bobby Bob - 7G 27A 34P -1 - 40GP - @Baby Boomer This is when things are going to get a little hard to decide players, but I decided with Bobby Bob. Toronto has been struggling this season, and it's either between Jimi Jaks or Bobby Bob to make the team, but I went with Bobby Bob. Currently, the team already has two good centers, and they need another defenseman to help round out the first pairing, so I decided to go with Bobby Bob. He is quietly having a good season with Jimi Jaks, where they're really the only players getting anything done on the team at the moment. RW - Yaroslav Trunov - 24G 32A 56P +5 - 39GP - @qripll Just like WWWWWWW, this one is a no brainer. Trunov has been having an exceptional season for the Phoenix, finding himself tied for 2nd in points, only behind AK92 Wit Da Hoodie. He is an elite player all around and having him apart of the roster would be huge for Team NA. It seems that every season Chicago has one player that just decides to have an MVP-like season, and Trunov was the player this year. D - Liv Slater - 18G 22A 40P -22 - 39GP - @Subject056 Our third defenseman on our list, I believe Slater would be the choice for Vancouver. Slater is over a point-per-game on a rebuilding Vancouver roster that is struggling this season, but was expected. Despite the -22, they're a young defenseman who can be very solid on that second pairing, including 116 hits and 111 shot blocks. They might be able to bring that grit and physicality to Team NA for the all-star game. C - Severus Targaryen - 23G 27A 50P -12 - @Banackock Our last player to make the team before the "fan vote" would commence would be Severus Targaryen. There really isn't much to say about Seattle, as they're going through a rebuild, but it's fairly obvious that Targaryen is their best player, and is carrying them. The youngest player to this point added to the roster and they would get some great experience playing with and against the best players in the league. A potential future all-star in the making. Targaryen would be a great add for Team NAs forward depth. Team NA "fan vote" extras Normally, this is where the fans would vote for players, but for reasons, obviously the fans aren't "voting" here, so I'll be filling out the roster with who I think deserves the remaining spots. D - Mark Calaway - 14G 29A 43P +17 - 39GP - @Beketov The first player to get in would be Mark Calaway in my eyes. On multiple other teams, he would easily be the first choice, however, the Frenchman is currently overshadowing him and his fantastic season. Regardless, Calaway is one of the best defenseman in NA and is having a career year. It seems D.C. finally has a dynamic duo in Calaway and the Frenchman going this season, and they could finally be a contender for the playoffs. A great addition to help round out the D core and an easy choice. C - Jimi Jaks - 18G 24A 42P +10 - 40GP - @ke1vi A potential questionable addition in the last spot over the likes of Vincent Laroche-Gagnier, who is having a much better season. However, I'm going for Jimi Jaks as he's having an exceptional season on a team that is struggling all over the place. Not only is he a +10 on a team that is below .500, he is over a point per game, where the rest of his team is struggling to meet that mark. I feel like on a better team, Jimi Jaks would have much better stats, but I decided to slide him in as the last forward for Team NA. EU Conference All-Star Selections D - Jacob Stone - 14G 32A 46P +7 - 40GP - @scoop The first selection for the EU Team would be Jacob Stone. An obvious selection from Malmo, as they've been the best defenseman in the league up to this point, and a huge part of Malmo's success this season. Malmo's D core is exceptional this season and easily the best in the league, where his partner Reese McFleury might be joining him on this list as well. A great defenseman with passing ability and an all-around complete game would be a huge addition for Team EU as they'll look to have a strong first pairing. D - Reese McFleury - 12G 31A 43P +22 - 40GP - @Spaz Another obvious addition as we'll just be taking the first pairing from Malmo to be a pairing on Team EU. Just like Jacob Stone, they're basically an exact carbon copy of Stone, just slightly worse. However, that doesn't mean he isn't capable of being one of the best defenseman in the league, including his +22, which is very good for a defenseman at this point in the season. The D lineup for Team EU is already looking very strong and having two players that have played together on a team is great chemistry wise. C - Axle Gunner - 18G 30A 48P -3 - 40GP - @Steve For Moscow, we'll be sending a pair of forwards to join Team EU, with Axle Gunner being the first one. Gunner is the playmaker for Moscow, having 30 assists on the season and having over a point-per-game. Moscow has heavily overperformed this season, as not many people imagined them doing this well, but there's no complaints coming from Moscow, that's for sure. Gunner will be a fantastic addition as a young centerman who just like Targaryen, can gain some extra experience from the all-star game. LW - Left Alone - 23G 25A 48P -8 - 40GP - @okochastar As for the second player coming from Moscow, we'll be going with his partner, Left Alone. Left Alone seems to be the goal scorer for this team, as they lead the team in goals with 23 on the season. They also can pass the puck, with 25 assists, so they seem to be able to do it all. The only thing they really lack is physicality, but they have great discipline, only taking a single penalty on the season. Another duo that will be joining Team EU as their chemistry is already looking better than Team NA. RW - Leonard Triller - 23G 32A 55P +18 - 39GP - @Triller Leonard Triller is an easy addition to the forward core, as they are currently 4th in the league in points, with great stats all around. London quietly has been a very good team this season, and Triller is a big part of it with the season they are having. Just an all-around complete player will be joining Team EU and they are looking deadly across the board so far. C - Daryl Dixon - 22G 29A 51P +9 - 40GP - @Ricer13 Dixon is currently on pace for another great season, trying to follow up his career high last season of 93 points. Regardless, Dixon is the heart of the Helsinki offense, where they seem to be involved in everything offensively. The next closest forward on the team in points is Grimgor Ironhide with 39, as he already has a 11 point lead on his forward group. Regardless, Dixon is a great add to Team EU as they look to stack their team even more. C - John Jameson - 20G 31A 51P +19 - 40GP - @Frank The more and more we go down the list, the more and more you realize that EU is stacked with talent. Jameson is an amazing forward who like the rest on this list, are just a complete player showing no holes. All these players unlike with Team NA can fit into any scenario and thrive, which I feel like is very important for an all-star game event. The only downside for Jameson could be the fact that he somehow has 144 penalty minutes, so this guy is going to go out there and probably drop the gloves at the event. LW - AK92 Wit da Hoodie - 30G 32A 62P +7 - 39GP - @hedgehog337 A current front runner for multiple awards is AK92 Wit da Hoodie, Team EUs best player. Riga this season has been alright, but they probably would've liked to have a better season, but regardless, AK92 is steamrolling the competition. Only 39 games in, he's 10 points away from being a point-per-game, and also has a 6 point lead on the 2nd place in points. An obvious add and someone who is head and shoulders above everyone else will be a difficult task for Team NA to handle. D - Rex Wolffe Gregor - 13G 23A 36P -14 - 40GP - @oilmandan Maybe not the most ideal defenseman on the list, but a defenseman who is just below a point-per-game is still a solid add for Team EU. They currently have a strong first pairing who can play top minutes, so a bit of a weaker D core isn't the end of the world, especially since their forward core is stacked. Gregor has been having a decent season for Warsaw who has struggled offensively, being second on the team in points as a defenseman. Nevertheless, a solid add for Team EU on the backend. D - David Jokinen - 15G 24A 39P -14 - 40GP - @Ahma There's really not much to say for Davos, as they are tanking for first overall to most likely pick @CowboyinAmerica. Jokinen has been having a great season on a team that sucks, so they for sure deserve a spot in the all-star game. Team EU "fan vote" extras G - Matt Murdock - 15-14-3 .935 2.17, 2 shutouts - 32GP - @Acydburn The first goaltender on this list, we'll be going with Matt Murdock. Murdock has been having a great season for Prague, dropping a .935 and a 2.17, impressive numbers for a goaltender. They are looking to have a career high this season currently, as their highest sv% in previous years was a .931 in S87 with Moscow. A great add for Team EU as they'll need solid goaltending. G - Fuuka Rask - 17-13-6 .933 2.31, 1 shutout - 37GP - @Jubis Another very solid goaltender and the second on the list is Fuuka Rask. Just like Murdock, Rask has been having a great season and is looking to have a career year, where his previous best was a .925 sv% last season with Helsinki. Both these goalies are having career years and it would make sense to have them on the team to help backstop the crease for Team EU. Final Rosters: Team North America: C - Todd Cooke LW - Larry Abass Jr C - The Frenchman RW - Yaroslav Trunov C - Severus Targaryen C - Jimi Jaks D - Skor McFleury D - Bobby Bob D - Liv Slater D - Mark Calaway G - Merome Dilson G - WWWWWWW Team Europe: C - Axle Gunner LW - Left Alone RW - Leonard Triller C - Daryl Dixon C - John Jameson LW - AK92 Wit da Hoodie D - Jacob Stone D - Reese McFleury D - Rex Wolffe Gregor D - David Jokinen G - Matt Murdock G - Fuuka Rask Conclusion Well that rounds up the article! This took a while to make, but pretty happy with the result and the theme week as it's always fun to write a huge article. Do you guys like the format for choosing the teams? Who would you vote in if you had the choice for EU or NA as the final two? Regardless, was a bunch of fun to write and had a blast doing so. 2000+ words, around 2500 without duplicate names
    17 points
  24. @Members Better late than never right? I promise we didn't forget about the holiday prize raffle! The draw will be taking place Sunday, January 28th, around 7pm EST. As previously mentioned the prize pool consists of 14 prizes spread over 4 tiers. Tier 1 - 5 Winners 5 uncapped TPE Tier 2 - 5 Winners $15 donation equivalent (IE you get the reward choice of a $15 donation without donating, can be claimed even if you have donated this season.) Tier 3 - 3 Winners Video Game of your choice (up to a max of $90 CAD, on any system) Tier 4 - 1 Winner Nintendo Switch (OLED) console OR an NHL Jersey of the winner's choice. The draw will be streamed to my twitch channel which can be found here: https://twitch.tv/beketov_vhl The draw will be at random and the number of entries you have is based on the number of 12 days of Christmas threads you responded to. Everyone who responded to at least 1 day has at least 1 entry and everyone, staff included, are allowed to win. As usual if you win something and would prefer to receive the prize from the tier below you can do that. Additionally we will not exchange any prize for cash value but a difference in prize that costs the same or less can be negotiated under certain circumstances. Good luck to everyone and I’ll see you all for the draw on Saturday!
    17 points
  25. Graphic thanks to @leandrofg Here are with one third of the season done already and I think I did okay last week in my predictions, or did I? Either way we can find out together as we look back at second week of the season and try to project what might happen. Let start by looking at the standing and last weeks predictions, shall we? North American Conference Standings Record PTS Last WK Prediction Last Wk 1. Chicago Phoenix 15 – 4 – 5 35pts (7 – 4 – 3) 2nd North American Conference 2. Los Angeles Stars 17 – 7 – 0 35pts (7 – 5 – 0) 1st North American Conference 3. Seattle Bears 11 – 9 – 4 26pts (5 – 5 – 4) 4th North American Conference 4. Toronto Legion 12 – 12 – 0 24pts (9 – 5 – 0) 5th North American Conference 5. Calgary Wranglers 10 – 10 – 3 23pts (9 – 3 – 1) 8th North American Conference 6. D.C. Dragons 10 – 11 – 3 23pts (5 – 7 – 2) 3rd North American Conference 7. Vancouver Wolves 9 – 14 – 1 19pts (5 – 8 – 1) 6th North American Conference 8. New York Americans 9 – 14 – 1 19pts (6 – 7 -0) 7th North American Conference Summary: Well, that was horrible week in predictions in the North American Conference, or was it? So, Chicago didn`t loss as much as I expected but I was correct that they wouldn`t drop so it was close between top teams. Toronto won more than expected as did well, Calgary and D.C really messed this up by playing below five hundred hockey that I expected them to play; otherwise, I would have had the middle of the order at least closer to correct. Well, no one is prefect especially me!! European Conference Standings Record PTS Last Wk Prediction Last Wk 1. Riga Reign 17 – 6 – 1 35pts (9 – 3 – 1) 3rd European Conference 2. London United 14 – 5 – 5 33pts (7 – 3 – 3) 1st European Conference 3. Helsinki Titans 16 – 8 – 1 33pts (8 – 5 – 1) 4th European Conference 4. Malmo Nighthawks 15 – 7 – 2 32pts (11 – 2 – 1) 6th European Conference 5. HC Davos Dynamo 13 – 6 – 4 30pts (7 – 2 – 3) 5th European Conference 6. Prague Phantoms 14 – 8 – 2 30pts (6 – 6 – 2) 2nd European Conference 7. Warsaw Predators 6 – 18 – 0 12pts (4 – 10 – 0) 7th. European Conference 8. Moscow Menace 3 – 16 – 4 10pts (2 – 6 – 4) 8th European Conference Summary: Yeah, much better than North American Conference in the way of predictions with at least three correct!! It will remain tight in the European conference as the top team Riga is only five points up on sixth placed Prague so a single win or a single loss can really change the current standings. Will this continue for remainder of the season? This week’s predictions: North American Conference 1. Reason: Los Angeles has a tough schedule ahead with teams that should push them as they play Toronto, Calgary(2), Prague(2), London and finish the week against D.C. Dragons. I still expect the trio of Larry Abass Jr @RileyL (16 – 21– 37pts), Sunglasses Joyo @JetsGoalie101 (15 – 21 – 36pts) and Todd Cooke @KRZY (18 – 18 – 36pts) to lead Los Angeles attack with secondary scoring coming from Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher (7 – 20 – 27pts) and continued push from the back-end from Jens Lekman @Bobcat (5 – 21 – 26pts) and Elias Lampi @Pifferfish (6 -19 – 25pts); both currently in the top ten of defense scoring. Los Angeles also sports the best offense and the second-best defense in the league at the moment so I have them winning more games than they lose again this week. 2. Reason: The point gap to the chasing teams should keep them in second even without looking at the schedule at the moment. Looking at the schedule they should play right around at least five hundred hockey; if not better but I still think they will lose the top spot this week in North American Conference. Chicago will need to find some secondary scoring outside of Scotty Sundin @fromtheinside (19 – 22 – 41pts) and Legacy Gaming @Gaming Ringleader (13 – 20 – 33pts); if they are going to hold off the strong charging Toronto Legion and Calgary Wranglers. They will also look to tighten up more defensively as they have the 10th most goals allowed in the league. 3. Reason: Toronto will control their chance to move up the standing further this week with games against Seattle(2) and Calgary before they should beat up on some of the rebuilding teams in Warsaw, Vancouver and Moscow in the middle of the week. They might not stay as hot as they were last week but should still play above five hundred hockey with much improved defensive play and goaltending from Joel Castle @animal74 (2.47GA & 0.926sav%) but they will also look for more secondary scoring from veteran Tomas Sogaard @Brandon (13 – 11 – 24pts) as Toronto cannot afford to have only Mac Atlas @v.2 (16 – 13 – 29pts) and Jimi Jaks @ke1vi (11 – 21 – 32pts) providing the bulk of the scoring. Overall, Toronto is moving in the right direction and should leapfrog the Bears by the end of the week. 4. Reason: I am not confident in this pick at all since they have to make up points on Seattle if they are going to jump them in the standing but luckily for Calgary, they play Seattle twice this week. Add in games against Vancouver (2) and D.C. Dragons (3). Calgary really controls their placement in the standing next week so while I think they can jump Seattle but it could be hard to stay ahead of the Dragons due to the head-to-head series. That being said I think they will player better than five hundred hockey so should move up. They still need more offense as they are the third worse team in goals but are improved on the back-end as Merome Dilson @MexicanCow123 (2.39GA & 0.919sav%) has improved this numbers. Calgary is scoring in committee at the moment with five players within a point per game pace with only Oreo McFleury @JB123 (13 -14 – 27pts) currently above a point per game pace but not by much. They have improved but they don`t feel like a top team. 5. Reason: Played five hundred hockey last week; with Toronto and Calgary now playing closer to expected from the VHL previews it would make sense that Seattle starts to fall back slightly. The question is how far as they control their placement in the standings with a series against Calgary and add in a back diving schedule that sees them play Vancouver and Warsaw to end the week. Seattle could easily hang onto third in the conference or drop to where I have them placed. Rex Wolffe Gregor @oilmandan (13 – 21 – 34pts) continue to impressively lead Seattle in scoring and the league in Power-play goals as his fantastic season continues. Seattle is another team scoring by committee with Svatopluk Puk @Otaznik (15 – 16 – 31pts) as their second-best scorer with another four players within a point per game pace. Clueless Wallob @DMaximus (3.08GA & 0.923sav%) will look to improve his goals against average and hope the team tightens up defensively as Seattle has the 5th worst goals against in the league. 6. Reason: D.C. Dragons have a very long week ahead with a very strong schedule but that will really be determine by head-to-head series against Calgary (3) and a game against Toronto both teams that they are chasing. They will need to win these games plus the game against Moscow if they have any chance of moving up the standings. They might even drop behind Vancouver or New York depending these games. Offensively the team has cooled with Jason @Jason kranz (15 -15 – 30pts) now leading the team in scoring ahead of The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath (10 – 16 – 26pts); who they will expect more from if they are going to make a push towards the play-offs this season. Ryuji Sakamoto @der meister (5 – 18 – 23pts) and Mark Calaway @Beketov (7 – 17 – 24pts) have also seen the offensive numbers fall off from last seasons pace and must be cause for some concern in D.C. On the positive side Geoff Bezos @Quik (2.93GA & 0.920sav%) has improved his consistency but now seems to lack any run support. 7. Reason: I am not sure that they deserve this placement as they could actually catch D.C. Dragons this week if they continue to win at least one of three games as they have done so far this season. Vancouver is having a break out seasons from FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist @STZ (20 – 17 – 37pts) and Liv Slater @Subject056 (2 -25 -27pts); which bolds well as the rebuild continues into next season. 8. Reason: New York might continue to switch back and forth with Vancouver for a few more weeks as the team overall isn`t that bad but without a goaltender they have allowed the second worst goals against in the league. While Tord Yvel @Trazan (3 – 20 – 23pts) is trying his best to play goaltender leading the league in shots blocked with 111. Promising signs in Francesco Mancini @GioSivo (20 – 20 – 40pts) and Jasper Davis @Josh (12 – 28 – 40pts) as both continue to place amongst the best in the league in scoring. Not to be forgotten is the strong play of Keon Jeannot @Lucas anton (11 – 21 – 32pts) as he is still over a point per game pace. European Conference 1. Reason: Easy schedule as Riga starts the week with Moscow and should end the week against New York and Moscow; not to mention that Riga went 8 - 3 the first week and followed that up with a 9 – 3 – 1 record this past week. Showing that they are for real at least at this stage of the season; so, I am not about to bet against them to have another week going 7-3 at least. It should be enough to continue to lead the tight European Conference. Riga has the third best offense in the league lead by AK92 Wit da Hoodie @hedgehog337 (17 – 22 – 39pts) and Babay Shrimp @Blazzer (10 – 25 – 35pts). While also providing the third best defense in the league in front of solid goaltending from Henry Tucker Jr @NSG (2.52GA & 0.928%). 2. Reason: Say New York, New York!! Actually, you can say easy schedule! Starting your week with New York, Warsaw, New York plus visits from Moscow (3) and Vancouver later in the week. They could be first by the end of the week but feel that their inconsistency will hold them back. Familiar faces have come a live for HC Davos as Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg (17 -24 - 41pts), Alfred Champagne @Anthique (20 - 20 - 40pts) and Jake Thunder @Thunder (11 - 26 - 37pts) once again lead the attack. Lachlan Summers @kirbithan (2.43GA & 0.928sav%) has improved his play back into the All-star goaltender most expected him to be. 3. Reason: Offense is red hot for the Nighthawks with six players over a point per game lead by Henry Eagles @Greg_Di (18 – 20 – 38pts), Yaroslav Bogatyrev @Bojovnik (18 – 17 – 35pts) and Skor McFleury @Alex (Not @Spaz) (6 -26 – 32pts). With the only question mark remaining around the team is goaltending but Justin Lion @Emperor_Fun (1.96GA & 0.936sav%) has started to push Ash Sparks @DarkSpyro(3.03GA & 0.914sav%); who still needs to improve his numbers if he is going to carry this team but so far, they have been able to outscore their goaltending inconsistencies. Can this continue? We will see!! Malmo will cool but most likely not this week. 4. Reason: Offense has cooled? Actually, it is more a depth scoring issue as last week they were 11th in the league in scoring and this week they are still 11th in the league. They are relaying too much on trio of Molly the Cat @JCarson (18 – 20 – 38pts), Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ (16 – 22 – 38pts) and Leonard Triller @Triller (6 – 28 – 34pts). London most likely would like a little bit more offense from the back-end from either Lloyd Braun @Toast (8 – 15 – 23pts) or Hunor Solyom @solyom (0 – 13 – 13pts); who continues to shoot muffins!! Jesse Teno @aimkin (1.89GA & 0.942sav%) continue to be amazing and is a big reason that London continue to be the best defensive team in the league. 5. Reason: Easy Schedule mixed with important conference games; enter Vancouver (2), Warsaw (2), New York, Riga (3) and Prague (2). This could either be a week where Helsinki jumps over Riga or falls back slightly. With the standing as tight as they are Helsinki could easily be first or sixth by the end of the week. I think they split conference games while they beat up on the rebuilding teams so they fall back slightly. Helsinki also relies on three players too much in Landon Wolanin @jacobcarson877 (23 – 20 – 43pts), Daryl Dixon @Ricer13 (12 – 28 – 40pts) and Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito (4 – 26 – 30pts). Kronchy Kardashian @Garsh (8 – 18 – 26pts) has shown improvement over the past week but again Helsinki would be looking for a bit more from the defender as he continue to learn from veteran Pierre Emile Bouchard. Fuukka Rask @Jubis (2.40GA & 0.932Sav%) is continuing to have a strong season as Helsinki will hope that it will last. 6. Reason: Prague really took a step back last week with 6 – 6 – 2 record and they were rather disappointing as the lack of depth scoring caught up to them as they relied too much on one player in John Jameson @Frank (20 – 18 – 38pts) so they will continue to look for secondary scoring. Matt Murdock @Acydburn (2.76GA & 0.923sav%) had a much stronger second week but it wasn`t enough as the team played five hundred hockey but you can`t really ask more from the tender. Add in a tough schedule and I cannot see Prague really being that much better next week and they are now at risk of falling from the play-off battle. The Defending Champion look like they could be in trouble if I am correct that they play only five hundred hockey this week and cannot find any secondary scoring to aid Matt Murdock and John Jameson. 7. Reason: Simple not as bad as Moscow? Actually, this is based on the fact that they went 2 - 8 - 0 the first week and then 4 - 10 – 0 last week so they should improve to 6 – 8 – 0; right!! Maxim Anisimov @McLovin (10 – 14 – 24pts) continue to lead the team in points and rookie points. Tater Tottingham @Trunkxolotl (11 – 12 – 23pts) is showing some reliable defense scoring while the team will hope for a bounce back week from King Kisslinger @Kisslinger (7 – 10 – 17pts) ; who has slowed slightly. DJ Fire Dragon @Firekiss (3.41GA & 0.916sav%) continue to be stead in the net for the rebuilding Warsaw. 8. Reason: Tough Schedule with Riga (3), HC Davos(3) and London (3); they might be luck to win a game this week if they can beat Warsaw towards the back end; if not it could be a winless week for the black and gold team from the cold Russian city of Moscow. Left Alone @okochastar (18 – 17 – 35pts) continue his dominate ways for the black and gold as does promising young rookie Axle Gunner @Steve (8 – 15 – 23pts). Overall Thoughts: European Conference remains near impossible to predict with six of the eight teams fighting for the top spot every week. The blood bath could cool slightly if Prague has another average week and fall off the back-end allowing the other teams to simple determine play-off positioning. In the North American Conference, the question still remains; Is Chicago for real? And what has happened to D.C. as they were expected to be at least a play-off team this season. Otherwise, the rest of the conference is finally starting to shake out as expected. It should be another interesting week in the VHL!!
    17 points
  26. @leandrofg Play-off are an exciting time and made even more exciting with the Wildcard rounds having teams face each other in a best of five. Even better when you have rivals facing each other in these games as it heightens the atmosphere around the games. These Playoff seen rivals Vancouver and Seattle; two of the stronger but underperforming teams facing off in the North American conference and Helsinki and London, two teams heading in different directions. North American Conference Wildcard: Seattle Bears (5) vs. Vancouver Wolves (4) Game 1: Vancouver Wolves 3-2 Both teams seemed nervous and tight in the first game. In the end it was defense for Vancouver that won them the first game with Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito scoring two goals and assisting the third on the way to shutting down the Seattle Bears offense for most of the game. While out-shot 33-26; Vancouver never seemed to be threatened much by Seattle offense also evident in the final 30 seconds of the game when Seattle could even enter Vancouver zone after making the game close. Game 2: Seattle Bears 5-3 Seattle Bears came out firing as they tried to get to the Vancouver Wolves defense and managed to do so effectively in the first (or paid off the referees) as Vancouver would see a steady stream of defenders heading to the box with Brian Payne @Scurvy, Liv Slater @Subject056 and Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito combining for ten minutes of penalties placing Seattle on the power-play for about half of the first period. Vancouver must have been happy being down only 2-1 to the referees at this point but after the game was made 3-1 early in the second period did the whistle finally go away. The game from this point was also never in doubt. Game 3: Vancouver Wolves 6-5 If the referee were paid off in the second game by Seattle Bears than Vancouver Wolves learned their lesson and paid the referees off for game 3 as Seattle would be called for six penalties in the first period spotting Vancouver a 3-1 lead. Holly barn burner of a second period with the team combining for six goals (three apiece), a fight between Dogwood Maple @dogwoodmaple and Rex Wolffe Gregor @oilmandan and short-handed goal by Babay Shrimp @Blazzer. In the end Seattle just could manage enough for a comeback. Game 4: Vancouver Wolves 3-2 Seattle Bears came out flying but in the end Brandt Fuhr @Tate and the Vancouver Wolves defense were able to shut down the Bears offense. Brandt Fuhr @Tate would make 39/41 saves for a 0.951sav%; best of game by far of his during the series. As the final game was a close hard-fought but, in the end, Vancouver Wolves were simple too much for the Seattle Bears. Vancouver Wolves win the series 3-1 Very close series as expected with only one goal difference between the two teams. In the end it was shame that this series didn`t actually go the distance as the VHL hockey world was robbed of a possible epic battle in a do or die situation. European Conference Wildcard London United (5) vs. Helsinki Titans (4) Game 1: Helsinki Titans 6-3 Jesse Teno @aimkin would be hammered by shots from Helsinki Titans right from the drop of the puck but he managed to keep the score close and gave his team a chance to win but in the end three unanswered goals in the third period would put the game away for Helsinki in a feisty first game with both teams combining for 30 mins in penalties. Both teams would look to clean up the PIM if they are going to be more successful as the round continues. Game 2: London United 3-1 Jesse Teno @aimkin is really all I need to say here for this game as he stood on his head throughout the game with 38/39hots stopped and 0.974sav% as London United would capitalize on the great goaltending to score three unassisted goals in tightly fought game. Helsinki Titans will need to find a way to solve Teno if they are going to win this series. Game 3: Helsinki Titans 5-2 They broke Teno? Helsinki Titans seemed to either solve Jesse Teno @aimkin or he simple had a night to forget for the ages as he would allow four goals on the first nine shots he would face spotting Helsinki lead in the game and the series. Five different goal scorers for Helsinki as Fuukka Rask @Jubis would stand tall in the Helsinki net. Can Helsinki close out the series? Game 4: London United 3-2 (Overtime) Goaltending battle is the only way to describe this game as Jesse Teno @aimkin bounced back in a big way and had Helsinki Titans frustrated through two periods as he had stopped 28/29 shots through two periods. While Fuukka Rask @Jubis was matching him with 21/23 shots stopped through the same two periods. Helsinki would finally tie the game early in the third when Lloyd Braun @Toast would finally break through the Teno armor and set up the inevitable Overtime. Holly!! Molly the cat @JCarson would only need one shot to force a game five; in a unfitting finish to such a battle between the goaltenders. Game 5: London United 5-3 The table turned as London United came out firing lead by Leonard Triller @Triller and they quickly chased Fuukka Rask @Jubis from the net with four goals on eleven shots. London never let off the throttle as they would fire another 37 shots towards the Helsinki net over the final two periods. Helsinki Titans tried to mount a comeback aid by their power-play bring the score back within one heading into the final frame but Leonard Triller @Triller stopped out all hope when he scores his third of the game. London United win the series 3-2 In a series where Jesse Teno @aimkin played a huge role in majority of the games it is slight ironic that he played no factor in the deciding game of the series as he played his worse game; actually, both goalies did. In the end it was timely goaltending and offense from Leonard Triller @Triller that led the United past Helsinki in the series. North American Semi – Finals Vancouver Wolves (4) vs. Toronto Legion (1) Game 1: Toronto Legion 5-3 Back and forth like a heavy weight fight that majority came to watch but in the end Vancouver Wolves couldn`t shut down the top offense duel of Tomas Sogaard @Brandon (4G) and Ronan Lavelle; @Arce (4A). Vancouver will need a much better effort defensively to shut down these two all-star forwards if they are going to stay close with Toronto in the series. Game 2: Vancouver Wolves 1-0 Defense is all you need!! Vancouver Wolves managed to shut down Toronto Legion in the battles of the Goaltenders as Joel Castle @animal74 played well despite take the loss as Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito scored the lone goal. Brandt Fuhr @Tate had his best game of the playoff pitching the shutout!! Toronto Legion will need to find a way to break the defense and goaltending of Vancouver Wolves. Game 3: Vancouver Wolves 2-1 Complete lock down by Vancouver Wolves seen Toronto Legion only manage 17 shots during the game; while they couldn`t stop Tomas Sogaard @Brandon and Ronan Lavelle @Arce duel completely. It was enough to sneak past Toronto with timely goals from Dogwood Maple @dogwoodmaple and Girts Galvins @Girts. If the games stay close it should favor Vancouver; right? Game 4: Toronto Legion 5-4 (Overtime) Back and forth, Punch for Punch!! Vancouver Wolves weren`t able to contain Ronan Lavelle @Arce so they decided to remove him from the game sending goon Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ over the boards to deal with him. Ronan Lavelle @Arce somehow ended up with a Game Misconduct; giving Vancouver Wolves the advantage but a strong game from Siyan Yasilievich @badcolethetitan and Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer made up for the loss of Ronan Lavelle @Arce; with Siyan Yasilievich @badcolethetitan scoring the winner in overtime to bring the series back to even. Now a best of three. Game 5: Vancouver Wolves 4-3 Tale of the series? Defensive struggle through the first two periods with Vancouver Wolves shutting down the Toronto Legion offense until a third period in which the team would trade punches with Vancouver power-play keeping them in the game. Final punch being thrown by Vancouver Wolves at 19:00 when Oreo McFleury @JB123 scored; finishing off two goals and three-point night for the Vancouver forward. Anyone series; but Vancouver Wolves needs to shut down Toronto Legion offense again. Game 6: Toronto Legion 3-1 Joel Castle @animal74 stole this game for Toronto Legion as they also got timely goals from Mac Atlas @v.2 ; two of the three goals as Vancouver managed to shut down Toronto offense but this was the first game where it didn`t matter. A hot tender heading to a game seven; the Vancouver Wolves are in trouble. Game 7 : Toronto Legion 2-0 Toronto Legion took a page out of the Vancouver Wolves play book as they shut down the Vancouver offense and got another really strong game from Joel Castle @animal74; in an almost complete repeat of game six as Toronto also got timely goal from Mac Atlas @v.2 . Toronto Legion win the series 4-3 In the end Vancouver Wolves was able to shut down the offense of the Toronto Legion but Toronto showed ability to adjust turning the tables on Vancouver by shutting down Vancouver offense and making the series a goaltending duel; in which the younger Joel Castle @animal74 was able to out battle the veteran Brandt Fuhr @Tate. Los Angeles Stars (3) vs. D.C. Dragons (2) Game 1: Los Angeles Stars 4-3 D.C Dragons took it to Los Angeles Stars in the first period but could only score two goals and Los Angeles played rope a dope with timely power-play goals in the second and early third accounting for Los Angeles stars coming out on top; with a strong game from Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher and even stronger game from Art Vandelay @Gustav (42/45 shots & 0.933sav%). Feels like Los Angeles stole this game. Game 2: Los Angeles Stars 5-1 Back and forth tilt until D.C. Dragons let frustration get the better of them as they couldn`t beat Art Vandelay @Gustav . Jason @Jason kranz; your best forward fighting is never a good thing and it would also seems like it back fired as it gave the momentum to Los Angeles Stars as they would score four unanswered to win the game. Hockey is also a mental game and right now D.C. is losing it!! Game 3: Los Angeles Stars 2-0 Goaltending battle between Bubbles Utonium @fishy and Art Vandelay @Gustav with Vandelay coming out on top with the shutout. Frustration still showing from the Dragons with even Bubbles Utonium @fishy collecting a penalty for slashing. If D.C. has any chance they need to stay out of the box and find a way to solve Art Vandelay @Gustav . Game 4: Los Angeles 3-1 Couldn`t solve Art Vandelay @Gustav and couldn`t stay out of the box as Los Angeles goes 2/8 (25%) on the powerplay to win not only the game but the series. Los Angeles stars win the series 4-0 When you have a goalie that is playing as well as Art Vandelay @Gustav ; it isn`t a matter if you are going to win the series but rather how many games will it take. In this case it was rather quick and painless for Los Angeles as the rode the hot tender to four straight wins. D.C. Dragons became frustrated from the third period of the second game on-wards and really seemed to self-explode. Sad since I had hoped they would at least push Los Angeles Stars in this series as the best offense team in the regular season. No offense and No wins!! European Conference Semi – Finals London United (4) vs. HC Davos Dynamo (1) Game 1: HC Davos Dynamo 3-0 HC Davos Dynamo jumped on London United early and often as they scored two goals before ice was even dry. HC Davos also showed one of the strengths of the defending champions by shutting down London offense for the rest of the game on the back of solid goaltending of Lachlan Summers @kirbithan. Was this a statement game? Game 2: HC Davos Dynamo 5-4 Chippy game with a lot of stick infractions and a combined 28PIM between the two teams. London United jumped on HC Davos Dynamo only 4 seconds into game. Three quick goals in the second period would put HC Davos ahead; only to have London fight back to tie the game showing that they can push the Champions but, in the end, a costly or timely powerplay goal by DB III @wcats would be the difference maker; in a very entertaining game. Game 3: London United 5-3 Back and forth game with Leonard Triller @Triller and Molly the Cat @JCarson finally breaking out offensively for the first time in the series and timely goaltending from Jesse Teno @aimkin combined for a strong victory for the United. London must still be concerned with the high scoring affairs and will look for strong defensive game? Game 4: London United 4-3 (Overtime) Series tied as London United out last HC Davos Dynamo with Jesse Teno @aimkin making timely saves again and Deron Nesbitt @AW13 having a nice little game scoring the winner in overtime as London now makes the it a best of three. Where is Lachlan Summers @kirbithan and Jake Thunder @Thunder as Davos really needs them to step to their All-star selves!! Game 5: HC Davos Dynamo 5-4 Jake Thunder @Thunder makes appearance assisting on four of the five goals scored by HC Davos Dynamo in another back and forth game as Leonard Triller @Triller and Molly the Cat @JCarson continue to shine for London United. DB III @AW13 scoring the winner again late in the third period to claim the victory for HC Davos. Can HC Davos final shut down London offense and claim the series? Game 6: HC Davos Dynamo 5-3 It wasn`t pretty but it is done!! James Teekirque was the difference maker with two goals and assist with B-DAV D3 sealing the deal with empty netter with twenty-four seconds left to play in the third. London simply couldn`t get the equalizer as Davos played a fairly defensive game only allowing 20 shots against. HC Davos Dynamo win the series 4-2 In the end HC Davos Dynamo were simple just too strong for London United in what was a very entertaining series of high scoring games when most expected a low scoring series, a goaltending duel series or at least that is what I expected. Riga Reign (3) vs. Prague Phantoms (2) Game 1: Riga Reign 4-3 (Overtime) Riga Reign seemed to want to set tone for the series in game one as they took thirteen penalties for 31 PIM while Prague Phantoms answered back with seven penalties for 19 PIM; in by far the chippiest game of the playoff so far. With a fight between Perry Laperriere @KaleebtheMighty and Larry Abass Jr @RileyL only three minutes into the series. All the while Prague peppered Henry Tucker Jr @NSG for a total of 62 shots but in the end, Riga Reign would stand tall and win the game on the back of strong performance from The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath (2G – 1A) as he would score the Overtime winner. What a series we could be witnessing if this game is any indication? Game 2: Prague Phantoms 5-2 Three goals in under five minutes of play and majority of the chippiness from the game before was gone. Riga Reign couldn`t handle the duel of Perry Laperriere @KaleebtheMighty (3G) and Moritz Stauffer @GoodLeftUndone (4A) as Prague also received as strong goaltending performance from Matt Murdock @Acydburn (45/47 shots & 0.957sav%). Riga Reign needs to shut down Prague Phantoms offense! Game 3: Riga Reign 4-1 Henry Tucker Jr @NSG was fantastic as he out-dueled Matt Murdock @Acydburn early in the game until two quick goals in the third broke the game open and Riga Reign would add another as they would eventually cruise to victory. Offensively Riga Reign were led by AK Wit da Hoodie92 @hedgehog337 (1g & 3A) as they will look to take a strangle hold on the series. Prague Phantoms will look to have another offensive break through to try to even up the series. Game 4: Prague Phantoms 2-1 Well, not the offensive break through Prague Phantoms were looking for but John Jameson @Frank seems to finding his footing in the playoffs with his second goal into two games. Another goalie duel that seen Matt Murdock @Acydburn get the better of Henry Tucker Jr @NSG this time; who really kept Riga in this contest making 47 saves on 49 shots. This game was really all Prague. Series now moves to best of three in what continue to be a chippy series. Game 5: Prague Phantoms 3-1 The goaltending battle continues in what has been a epic battle between the pipes with Prague Phantoms scoring quickly into the game forced Riga Reign to chase most of the game. Perry Laperriere @KaleebtheMighty two goal performance would be the difference as Admir Bala @Tyler would also have a nice game for himself with 3 helpers. Riga Reign are now the team looking for offense or they will be going home. Game 6: Riga Reign 5-2 Riga Reign finally broke Matt Murdock @Acydburn as they would score within the first minute of the game and force Prague Phantoms to chase. Brian Kowalski @Wheaties would have himself a game to remember with a hattrick and helper to lead Riga. Henry Tucker Jr @NSG was solid again in net but far less busier than previous games. Dabnad Shaw @Dabnad would fight John Jameson @Frank and be ejected from the game. Anyone series heading into game seven but I am expecting a goaltending duel so let’s hang onto our britches. Game 7: Prague Phantoms 5-4 Riga Reign hammered Prague Phantoms in the first period; that was very chippy with eight penalties. which led to the opening goal by Larry Abass Jr @RileyL for the Riga Reign. Penalties would play a huge role in this game; as Riga would be called for the next three to start the second period and while the teams trade goals all three goals from Prague Phantoms goals including the tying goal would come on the power-play. Deadlocked heading to the third with all on the line. Prague scored two quick goals around the sixteen-minute mark and seemed ready to cruise into the next round but Riga has other plans when Brian Kowalski @Wheaties scored just two minutes later to bring the game back within a goal but in the end, Prague was able to hang onto the Victory. Prague Phantoms win the series 4-3 High scoring back and forth series was very entertain where either team could have actually won the series. Prague at the end of the day were simple too strong of a opponent for Riga Reign to handle but they gave it their all. North American Conference Finals Los Angeles Stars (3) vs. Toronto Legion (1) Game 1: Toronto Legion 3-2 Toronto Legion quickly jumped to the lead with two goals in under the first five minutes of the game and series as Toronto fired everything at Art Vandelay @Gustav in the first. The game became a defensive struggle before B-LAS D3 would get Los Angeles on the board and within a goal. Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher would tie the game on the power-play early in the third before Jimi Jaks @kelvi would score the winner just before the eight minute mark of the third. Los Angeles Stars took too many penalties putting Toronto Legion on the power-play eight times so they will look to stay clear of the box in the next game. Game 2: Toronto Legion 5-4 Jimi Jaks @kelvi; the star killer as he scored four goals to led the offense for Toronto Legion. Once again jumping out to an early two goal lead before the game was ten minutes old before allowing Los Angeles Stars to storm back into the game in the second. The second started in a crazy good old playoff hockey fashion as Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher would score 23secs into the period before only 4sec later Jimi Jaks @kelvi would score his hattrick goal to restore a two-goal lead. Los Angeles would than score two more goals to tie the game heading to the third before taking the lead just before the seven-minute mark when Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher would beat Joel Castle @animal74. Jimi Jaks @kelvi would scorer his fourth to tie the game before Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer would score the winner on the power-play and seal the victory for Toronto. Goaltending has been rather average so far in this series; which has been rather shocking. Game 3: Los Angeles Stars 2-1 Well, I had to mention the average goaltending at the end of the second game and both teams seemed to lock down the offense as both goalies would have their best game of the series. Art Vandelay @Gustav in the end out dueled Joel Castle @animal74 as the early goals continue to be a thing in this series. Los Angeles Stars have life and will continue to try to shutdown Toronto Legion offense. Toronto Legion will look to bounce back offensively in the next game and try to claim a strangle hold on the series. Game 4: Los Angeles Stars 5-4 Offensive game from Los Angeles Stars when I expected them to shut things down? Actually, what happened was Los Angeles stars let up after scoring three goals in under ten minute and thought they would cruise to victory before Toronto Legion would answer for two of their own to make the game close after one. Los Angeles must have received a tongue lashing as they scored two quick goals in the first ten minute of the second to seal the victory. Toronto would add one late but ran out of time for a comeback. Joel Castle @animal74 will look to have a bounce back for Toronto Legion as he allowed five goals on sixteen shots; simple not good enough!! Oh, Series also tied so we are now a best of three and momentum in favoring Los Angeles Stars. Game 5: Toronto Legion 3-2 (Overtime) Bounce back game expected from Joel Castle @animal74 and that is what we got as the goaltenders decided to duel again but this time Joel Castle @animal74 and Toronto Legion coming out as the victors. Mac Atlas @v.2 lead the attack for Toronto Legion with a goal and two assist; including the game winner in overtime. Jimi Jaks @kelvi would also make his first real appearance since game two scoring the tying goal in the third period to send the game to overtime. Game 6: Los Angeles Stars 3-1 Art Vandelay @Gustav had a subpar game five and made up for it in game six (28/29shots) as Los Angeles Stars would score three unanswered as they force a game seven winner takes all. Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer opened the scoring for Toronto Legion as once again early goals seems to the theme of the series at 46sec mark of the second only to be answered back by Los Angeles Stars Todd Cooke @KRZY one minute later. Another Goaltending duel won by Art Vandelay @Gustav and Joel Castle @animal74 has to be better if Toronto Legion are going to win game seven. Game 7: Los Angeles Stars 3-2 Team traded punches through the first thirty minute of the game before Art Vandelay @Gustav shut it down for Los Angeles Stars. Los Angeles Stars Adam Rage @MrMom would open the scoring just before the ten minute mark of the first. Only to be answered by two goals by Toronto Legion would give them the lead heading into the second frame. Early goals are a thing and Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher wasted little time tying the game just 30sec into the second. Gregger McKeggegger @TheNeonShaman would finish out the scoring at eleven minute mark on the power-play as Los Angeles Stars head to the Continental Cup finals for the first time in their history. Los Angeles win the series 4-3 Close, tight hockey in which the better teams defense or goaltending usually wins and this was the case in the series with Art Vandelay @Gustav out playing Joel Castle @animal74. This series really could have gone either way as all games were decided by a single goal except game 6. Los Angeles Stars will now look to bring home their first Continental Cup in their first ever finals appearance. European Conference Finals Prague Phantoms (2) vs. HC Davos Dynamo (1) Game 1: Prague Phantoms 3-2 (Overtime) Good strong defense is usually lead by a strong goaltender as the first game of the series seen a goaltending battle between Lachlan Summers @kirbithan and Matt Murdock @Acydburn. Summers kept HC Davos in the game face 49 shots of which he was able to stop 46 of them but it wasn`t enough as Jason Argos @Insypher would score the overtime winner to give Prague Phantoms the series lead. HC Davos Dynamo will be kicking themselves for being undisciplined taking eight penalties including one in the third that lead to the tying goals being scored by Fred Hampton @TownBizness; they will look to be more disciplined in the next game. Game 2: HC Davos Dynamo 5-4 (Double Overtime) Offensive outbreak as Prague Phantoms were unable to control the trio of James Teekirque @Mongoose87 (3G & 1A), Pete Mitchell @Crstats23 (4A) and Skor McFleury @Alex (2G & 2A) in a game where Matt Murdock @Acydburn was able to keep Prague in the game despite giving up five goals as he would face a total of 67 shots making 62 saves. At the other end Lachlan Summers @kirbithan was solid and allowed Skor McFleury @Alex to score the overtime winner just 15 secs into the second overtime. Prague Phantoms will try to shut down the offense out burst of HC Davos Dynamo and hope the strong play from Matt Murdock @Acydburn continues. Game 3: Prague Phantoms 4-1 Early goal only 29 secs by Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide set the tone as Prague Phantoms would take the game to HC Davos Dynamo right from the moment the puck dropped. Prague offense was led by John Jameson @Frank (1G & 3A) and Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide (2G) as Prague offense continues to roll. HC Davos Dynamo will look to try to solve Matt Murdock @Acydburn as his strong play continues and try to shut down Prague Phantoms offense. Prague Phantoms on the other hand will try to claim a strangle hold on the series. Game 4: Prague Phantoms 4-3 (Overtime) Much stronger start to the game by HC Davos Dynamo seen them leave the first period with a two-nothing lead and they would hold this lead for most of the second until a costly penalty would see Prague Phantoms bring the game within one as Velociraptor Greg @samx would score their first of the game on the power-play. Prague Phantoms would than score two quick goals in under six minutes to start the third period before Halvar Torbjorn @Rayzor_7 would tie the game just after the nine-minute mark and send the game to overtime for the third time in the series. Velociraptor Greg @samx would score their second of the game and the overtime winner on the power-play. Prague Phantoms now have a strangle hold on the series up three games to one. HC Davos Dynamo need all hands on deck if they are going to comeback in this series. Game 5: Prague Phantoms 4-1 Prague Phantoms dominated from the start scoring two goals on fifteen shots and adding another goal while firing twenty-nine shots at Lachlan Summers @kirbithan; who was doing everything he could to keep HC Davos Dynamo in the game and series. HC Davos Dynamo tried everything in the third period to save their season but couldn`t solve Matt Murdock @Acydburn until the final minute of the game on the power play. Prague Phantoms win the series 4-1 Series was a lot closer than the five games length might actually suggest as three of the game went to overtime but in the end, it was the offensive strength that powered Prague past the defending Continental Cup Champions and Lachlan Summers @kirbithan. Prague Phantoms also showed how lethal they are on the power-play and made HC Davos Dynamo pay for any infractions. Prague Phantoms will look to claim their first Continental Cup as they make their second appearance in the finals. Continental Cup Finals Outlook Los Angeles Stars (3) vs. Prague Phantoms (2) Los Angeles Stars; an expansion team in S73 will make their first trip to the finals against Prague Phantoms an expansion team from S68; who is making their second trip to the finals. Either way History will be made as Los Angeles or Prague will lift their first Continental Cup in franchise history. Two high powered offensive teams with two more than capable goaltenders could see an wildly unpredictable finals but a very entertaining one!!
    17 points
  27. @leandrofg Hi everyone and welcome to VSN’s S89 VHL Preview! This season could be an interesting one in both conferences as we should see an intense playoff battle in the EU and in the NA we could very well see Toronto return to the playoffs for the first time in a while! Also, sorry for the delay, I was away for the past few days and my laptop died. North American Conference #1 Vancouver Wolves Forward Rank: 2nd Defense Rank: 9th Goalie Rank: 5th Overall Rank: 1st Key Additions: Nico Pearce @Spartan , Brian Payne @Scurvy, and Reinhard von Kongming @Kylrad The Vancouver Wolves enter this season as the top team in the league and have a very solid team from top to bottom. Prior to the offseason Vancouver already had a very strong roster complete with elite offensive options in Dogwood Maple @dogwoodmaple and Henry Eagles @Greg_Di! Not to mention top defensemen candidate Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito on the blue line. We can look for Vancouver to be dominant in the NA and there’s no reason why they won’t make yet another cup run this season. Vancouver seems to have dropped the ball to start the season with a 4-3-0 start, but this could very well be a fluke as they have a +4 goal differential and should not be worried about the slow start one bit. #2 Calgary Wranglers Forward Rank: 3rd Defense Rank: 5th Goalie Rank: 16th Overall Rank: 4th Key Additions: Rip Wheeler @ScottyP, and Halvar Torbjorn @Rayzor_7 The Calgary Wranglers are at a very interesting point in their window right now, with Daniel Janser @Daniel Janser set to retire and Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg , and Landon Wolanin @jacobcarson877 nearing the end of their careers as well. We should see a lot of movement in the coming seasons as they look to continue to be competitive with their remaining players which will be focused around Vincent Laroche-Gagnier @vincentlg2007, Phil Strasmore @Phil, and rookie goaltender Merone Dilson @MexicanCow123. This season we can expect Calgary to be near the top of the North American Conference, the big question mark for Calgary is on goal as they currently have the league’s worst starting goalie. Calgary has been good to start the season with a 5-2-1 record, this has been in large part due to their goalscoring. #3 Seattle Bears Forward Rank: 1st Defense Rank: 13th Goalie Rank: 9th Overall Rank: 5th Key Additions: Daniel Weaver @ThePerfectNut, Sax Justice @Eso, Scoish Velociraptor Maloish @youloser1337, Rex Wolffe Gregor @oilmandan, and Cole Pearce @N0HBDY Seattle has almost an entirely new lineup this season with only 4 forwards and 1 defensemen returning from last season, and while on paper their roster is very solid, the turnover could lead to some struggles early in the season as it could take some time for things to click. Offensively Seattle looks great, they have the leagues top offense built around Hulk Hogan 2 @Hogan, and Yaroslav Bogatyrev @Bojovnik, both of whom should have a great season. Seattle is always a top team in the league and should be again this season. Seattle picked up where they left off last season and currently lead the North American Conference with a 6-2-0 record. #4 Los Angeles Stars Forward Rank: 6th Defense Rank: 6th Goalie Rank: 4th Overall Rank: 7th Key Additions: Jens Lekman @Bobcat, and Calix Pearce @Laine The Los Angeles Stars are a very complete team this season and could very well be the most well-rounded team in the VHL, with their S84 and S85 draft picks hitting their prime at the right moment, LA could very well challenge any team in the league and really add a variable into the North American playoff race and they could beat any team we have listed above them. Los Angeles offense could be due for an incredible season with Nezuko @Baozi, and Sirdsvaldis Miglaskems @FrostBeard in the final season of their career we could very well finally see LA get the offensive output they have needed for several seasons. Los Angeles has had another strong start and look to challenge the top teams with a 5-2-0 record. #5 Toronto Legion Forward Rank: 11th Defense Rank: 11th Goalie Rank: 10th Overall Rank: 12th Key Additions: Jimmy MacElroy @Xflexz, and Weenuk Warrior @KnightRiley The Toronto Legion look to be done their rebuild and did so in a big way by trading for Jimmy MacElroy and building upon their young core of Jimi Jaks @kelvi, Mac Atlas @v.2 , and Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer. For Toronto to make the playoffs they will need Joel Castle @animal74 to stand on their head all season as the roster isn’t quite ready to compete with the top teams but could very well capitalize on being the best of the bottom 4 teams in the North American Conference, we can expect Toronto to make the playoffs for the first time since S84 this season. Toronto has had a tough start with a 2-3-3 record, Toronto has been keeping it close this season, and this could be a good sign as they have only been losing games by small margins. #6 New York Americans Forward Rank: 12th Defense Rank: 16th Goalie Rank: 12th Overall Rank: 13th Key Additions: Biggie Cheese @a_Ferk The New York Americans seem to be stuck in the middle of competing and rebuilding, the acquisition of Biggie Cheese was a needed addition for New York’s blueline, but it just doesn’t seem to be enough as they have the lowest TPA defense in the league. While New York does have some great offensive players in Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher and Svatopluk Puk @Otaznik, they lack overall depth. While New York could potentially end their playoff draught this season, it could very well be an uphill battle. We can expect New York to potentially buy this season towards the trade deadline or potentially go all in after the season. Either way New York is in great hands. So far this season, Svaltopluk Puk has been remarkable and already has 14 points, and New York currently is 6th in the NA with 7 points. #7 Chicago Phoenix Forward Rank: 15th Defense Rank: 15th Goalie Rank: 13th Overall Rank: 14th Key Additions: None The Chicago Phoenix really just lacks top end talent and have been in a bit of an unlucky stretch which started with Bo Johansson @Shindigs going inactive, essentially sending the team into what will need to be a full-blown rebuild again. With that being said they are off to a good start with future number 1 defensemen Liv Slater @Subject056. Chicago could maybe challenge for a playoff spot it’s very unlikely, but they should be back to being competitive in not too long. Lastly, Chicago should be adding another strong player into the fold at the next draft as with a 2-5-1 record it looks like the tank is on. #8 D.C. Dragons Forward Rank: 16th Defense Rank: 12th Goalie Rank: 11th Overall Rank: 16th Key Additions: Max Torq @Steve, and John Poremba Jr @CrlineDijohn14 The D.C. Dragons are improving each and every season and with their recent draft picks developing quickly and they already have what will be an incredible top 2 defensemen with Eric Queefson @twists and Mark Calaway @Beketov. While the team isn’t ready for playoff contention and still needs to fill several positions, D.C. is moving in a good direction. Goaltender Bubbles Utonium @fishy has been remarkable to start the season and without a doubt is the reason for D.C.’s 4-3-1 start. European Conference #1 Moscow Menace Forward Rank: 4th Defense Rank: 8th Goalie Rank: 2nd Overall Rank: 2nd Key Additions: Jason @Jason kranz, Deron Nesbitt @AW13, and Clueless Wallob @DMaximus Moscow has been a top contender since S79 and has not missed the playoffs once since then making the finals 5 times in those 9 seasons. This season they seem to be just as strong as ever with Tomas Sogaard, Ronan Lavelle, and Hammar Voss ready to carry this team right back to the finals. Moscow should very well be a top regular season team, although given their successes and shortcomings in their recent playoff streak nothing will matter for this group until the 73rd game of their season. Moscow has been on fire this season and currently leads the league with a 6-1-1 record. #2 HC Davos Dynamo Forward Rank: 5th Defense Rank: 3rd Goalie Rank: 6th Overall Rank: 3rd Key Additions: Skor McFleury @Alex, and Jack The Ripper @Ripper Davos has had an interesting offseason that was completed with a blockbuster trade as they moved Kowalski and just about all their draft capital for Skor McFleury to round out their D-core. As far as the roster goes they do have 2 1000+ TPA forwards with Mason Jones @Masu Chan and Alexandre Leduc @Lemorse7, both of whom should improve over the course of the season prior to their retirement. Davos also still has maintained their forward depth with 5 forwards over 750 TPA. Defensively it’s very hard to not mention Jake Thunder @Thunder who is coming off of an incredible season and looks to repeat it in S89. Lastly, Lachlan Summers @kirbithan is looking to avoid a sophomore slump as they had a league best SV% last season. So far this season Davos is 6-2-0, and this has been in large part thanks to Pete Mitchell’s @Crstats23 and James Teekirque’s @Mongoose87 production. We can look for Davos to challenge Moscow all season for that top spot in the EU. #3 London United Forward Rank: 10th Defense Rank: 2nd Goalie Rank: 1st Overall Rank: 6th Key Additions: The Board Game Clue On Skates @MubbleFubbles London has a very interesting roster make-up with 5 forwards, although they do still have 1.5 million in cap space and could have called someone up. Given this it is likely safe to assume that the hope is that they can hang around a playoff spot long enough that they’ll be able to bring in a 2-3 million dollar forward with retained salary to complete their forward core. Until then there will be a lot of weight on Jesse Teno @aimkin as they will need to shut down other teams if London is to have much success. This has held true so far this season as London is 4-3-1, however they are currently in a playoff spot and if they can maintain this decent pace they should be in a good place. With that being said, London has proved that it doesn’t matter where you finish in the regular season as long as you make the playoffs. This team poses a series threat to just about any team in the league. #4 Prague Phantoms Forward Rank: 8th Defense Rank: 4th Goalie Rank: 3rd Overall Rank: 8th Key Additions: Jason Argos @Insypher, Matt Murdock @Acydburn, and Marcel Janser @Morcar80 Prague has been a very solid team the past few seasons, and on paper they look to be very good again, with elite offensive talent centered around Parry Laperriere @KaleebtheMighty and John Jameson @Frank, although they do lack offensive depth seen with other contending teams. On the defensive side of things Prague could just be one of if not the best in the league with the 4th best defense and 3rd best goalie in Matt Murdock. Currently, Prague is 7th in the EU, but are tied for 5th with a 3-4-1 record. The conference should be very close all season. # 5 Riga Reign Forward Rank: 7th Defense Rank: 10th Goalie Rank: 7th Overall Rank: 9th Key Additions: Brian Kowalski @Wheaties, Larry Abass Jr @RileyL, and Vasile Lamb @dlamb Riga has had a interesting offseason and managed to improve greatly in the short term all while improving their draft capital. Riga’s forward core is based heavily around S86 top draft pick The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath who is poised for a breakout season and could establish themselves as a top scoring option in the VHL. This season we expect Riga to make the playoffs, although it could be close between them and the other middle of the pack teams in the Conference. So far this season they have managed to pull ahead a bit as they currently have a 4-1-3 record. #6 Helsinki Titans Forward Rank: 9th Defense Rank: 6th Goalie Rank: 8th Overall Rank: 10th Key Additions: Chip Stone @DoktorFunk The Helsinki Titans should be better right now with Daryl Dixon hitting their prime and a solid defensive core featuring Malum Maellard @frescoelmo, Kronchy Kardashian @Garsh and Mo Probert @Yahtzee. The one thing with Helsinki’s roster that could be improved is their forward core as it lacks depth and we learned last season GM @Rayzor_7 is not afraid to make mid-season trades and with $5 million in cap space that may just be what they are looking to do. Helsinki currently sits last in the European Conference with a 3-5-0 record. #7 Warsaw Predators Forward Rank: 13th Defense Rank: 1st Goalie Rank: 14th Overall Rank: 11th Key Additions: Mikhail Kovalchuk @Banackock, Jani Karppinen @ShawnGlade, AK92 Wit da Hoodie @hedgehog337, Ed Nu @npuBeT, and Ryuji Sakamoto @der meister The Warsaw Predators are mid-rebuild and have stocked up a lot of draft picks for the next two drafts. Ironically Warsaw does have the league’s top offense with AK92 Wit da Hoodie and Ryuji Sakamoto. Additionally, Ed Nu has had a great start to the season and has given Warsaw a chance to win every game against the odds. Warsaw projects as a middle of the pack rebuilding team but given how things have gone playoffs are very much not out of the question, this could be a very exciting team to watch. #8 Malmo Nighthawks Forward Rank: 14th Defense Rank: 14th Goalie Rank: 15th Overall Rank: 15th Key Additions: Ivan Retoslav @eagle_3450, and Ash Sparks @DarkSpyro Malmo has been in a rebuild for some time now, but they have a great group of young players and could very well make a shift to competing soon. Currently they are in fantastic shape with Logan Foley @WildfireMicro, Victor Jensen @Advantage, Yaroslav Trunov @qripll, Jacob Stone @scoop, and Reese McFleury @Spaz already on the roster. While this team likely won’t make the playoffs, we could be in for a great season from some of their young stars! Malmo is actually in a playoff spot right now and has been strong to start the season with a 3-4-1 start to the season.
    17 points
  28. Spartan

    Delete the E.

    Obviously this is going to be a contentious topic. @jacobcarson877 just wrote an article about his issues with it, or its shortcomings at least. The E had a stated purpose, but is it really meeting that purpose anymore as of S88 going into S89? I have some massive issues with the E here and some of it stems from today. Anyways, the title and preview is just a bit of bait for some clicks. I don't actually have it out for the E. What I do have it out for are GMs who don't do their jobs. I'll be straight up and say there are plenty of things I don't do well myself. I forget to give bonuses to prospects, my check-ins are sporadic at best, if they even happen at all, and I simply can't win a cup. So I know I have my own issues and shortfalls as a GM and person. But holy FUCK do some of you need to put in some more effort in scouting. How are we a sim league and I hear that only 3-4 VHLE and VHL GMs COMBINED reached out to first/second round prospects, if they even reached out at all. This league exists for the experience of our members, and most people I spoke to this pre-draft process said only 2-3 teams including Moscow spoke to them between the E and the VHL. And I reached out over the weekend to most! I really don't know what's going on with some of our GM's but it's pretty embarrassing that some folks draft people well within their projected range without speaking to them. I selected a guy who wasn't spoken to by a single VHLE GM. If we don't step up our efforts, I don't know what some of us are getting out of this role. Dunno what competition there'll be in the VHL if prospects lose interest by the time they're drafted since no one's communicating with them. Anyways I put this in the Thunderdome since I know I don't have the complete picture and am not offering 100% factual info. But the trend points towards the majority of VHL and E GMs not putting in the effort to get to know prospects, and the lack of effort is noticed by those eager prospects.
    17 points
  29. If you're an older member who cares about the VHLM, first of all, thank you! There aren't enough of you in our fine community. Second of all, if you were active anywhere between S67 and S72, you may remember an offseason tournament held between the VHLM commissioners at the time--@Banackock and @diamond_ace--called the Commissioners Cup. And, as Bana said in a status update from 2021 that I don't know how to link to, "Greens haven't had the drive to get er done since." Well, good news, VHLM: @Spartan and I are here to change that. Introducing...the revival of the Commissioners Cup, starting this offseason! The basic rules are as follows: The Commissioners Cup is a best-of-three series featuring the best of the VHLM, facing off against each other on two teams, one drafted by each VHLM Commissioner. The two teams, TEAM GUSTAV and team spartan, will consist of 12 forwards, 6 defensemen, and 2 goalers each. Any player who spent the last season in the VHLM is eligible for selection. That's it! Winners receive bragging rights, and 40 of you get to see your player in a few sims this offseason. Spartan and I will hold our draft live on stream, Wednesday night at 8:00 Eastern. Hope to see you there! @VHLM GM
    17 points
  30. While the S93 VHL Entry Draft was highly anticipated from the moment high-end prospects Gianfranco Del Rocco @Victor and Antonia Bucatini @CowboyinAmerica declared their eligibility - and Jean-Pierre Devote @eagle_3450 and Forum Content @frescoelmo rounded out the top of the draft class nicely - it was a group that was originally pegged by many VHL scouts as lacking in depth. It’s not so much that those scouts missed the mark, but the VHL made a mid-season play to expand their recruiting efforts and all of a sudden, there was a massive influx in talent in the VHLM and, accordingly, in the S93 draft class as well. Several of the new faces brought in have immediately made names for themselves, and a couple of them even threaten to shake up that top of the draft class - although the top two of Del Rocco / Bucatini in some order is essentially untouchable. As a result, the S93 draft now looks like one of the deepest VHL draft classes in a very long time. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the new faces that have made their impact felt during their brief times in the league, and when some of these fast-rising prospects can look forward to hearing their names called on draft day. Lucy Leitner - D - Houston Bulls @LucyXpher The 5’8, 155 pound US-born defender stormed onto the VHL scene at the start of S93 and signed with Houston, where she would go on to rank 4th in the VHLM in defenseman scoring with 76 points in 72 games. That is surely impressive production for a VHLM rookie but it’s off the ice, with her work ethic, that Leitner has impressed most. She is a brilliant skater who moves the puck well and excels in her own end of the ice, though the offensive toolkit (passing and shooting) will need to develop to see the same production at the next level. Leitner has skyrocketed up draft boards and has massive upside - currently ranked 5th in the draft class, Leitner’s name will be in the minds of every GM who isn’t picking in the top-2, and if I were making the call, she would probably be the #3 pick. Benjamin Abenduct - D - Houston Bulls @Schnee The Bulls really scored themselves a pair of great young defensemen early in the year through the VHLM’s waiver process, with Abenduct close behind Leitner all year and actually outproducing her on the scoresheet. He finished the year with 23 goals, 81 points, 170 hits, and 100 blocks in 68 games. Although the stats don’t necessarily bear it out, Abenduct is a little more defense-minded than Leitner but doesn’t get around the ice as well and has a little bit less refined offensive game. He’s currently ranked 6th in the draft class and has his own case to jump Devote and Content on draft day, probably going right after Leitner especially if a team needs a defender. Annie Oaks - RW - Las Vegas Aces @Noodle Enjoyer Oaks signed with the Saskatoon Wild at the start of the VHLM season before being traded to the more competitive Las Vegas Aces at the deadline. Over the season, Oaks totalled 41 goals and 95 points, showcasing excellent vision and a powerful slapshot. Her shot is actually nearly pro-ready, but she does have a lot of work to do defensively before being able to contribute at the VHL level. Oaks is currently the ninth-ranked player in the draft class, the highest-rated forward coming from the increased recruiting efforts, and is a surefire first-round pick with a good chance to break into the top half of the round. UghSike - LW - Miami Marauders @UghSike UghSike has a lot of similarities to the aforementioned Oaks, having signed with the Wild at the start of the year before being shipped out at the trade deadline. UghSike found himself in Miami after the trade and was not as productive as Oaks during the season - he compiled 28 goals and 60 points. Compared to Oaks, UghSike has a slightly weaker shot (but still very good), is even less refined defensively, but is a better passer and skater. He will likely come off the board shortly after Oaks on draft day, somewhere in the middle of the first round. Trimiskez Artav - RW - Houston Bulls @jake Another member of the Houston Bulls, Artav brought it in a big way this season putting up 43 goals and 88 points in 72 games. He’s talented offensively and a little more well-rounded overall compared to the other forwards we’ve discussed so far. Unfortunately, over the last few weeks, there have been reports that Artav’s development has stalled and he’s been missing practice, which could definitely affect his draft stock. For the time being, Artav is still ranked 12th, but it seems likely he will fall into the second or third round based on these recent developments. Nathan Ecker - RW - Houston Bulls @Nathan_8 As you may have guessed, the Bulls were big beneficiaries of the VHL’s recruitment effort, and this is the fourth player they’ve placed on this list. Ecker is an extremely similar player to UghSike, with glaring defensive deficiencies in his game but excellent offensive talent, hands, and vision. With 25 goals and 48 points in 72 games, Ecker contributed to the Bulls’ offense from day one and has shown a steady commitment to improving. He is ranked 15th in the draft right now and will definitely be in the conversation for those GMs picking late in the first round. Gul Dukat - D - Miami Marauders @MSouthworth Dukat is an old-school defender, a stay-at-home, 6’3 200 pound behemoth with a mean streak and above average mobility, the kind of game that fans, scouts, and coaches all love. Dukat even showed some untapped offensive ability with Miami this season, putting up 18 goals and 65 points, even though that’s not necessarily their strong suit. With 163 hits, 72 PIM, and 123 blocks, it is that defensive element where Dukat truly shines. Ranked 16th in the class to date, Dukat is also the draft’s third-ranked defenseman behind Leitner and Abenduct, which means they should be a lock to be a first rounder. Ondrej Vencko - G - Houston Bulls @Mutti Vencko came to the VHLM as a talented but troubled young netminder, and had some much-publicized concerns about drug usage mar his early days in Houston. We may never find out exactly what went on, but it seems that whatever it was is firmly in the rearview mirror. Vencko quickly claimed the starting role in Houston and improved greatly as the year went on, finishing the season 27-18-3 with an .892 SV% before posting a .917 SV% in 12 playoff games. Vencko has excellent reflexes and rebound control, but struggles with lateral mobility and plays a little small in his net at times. There’s definite upside here though and he is the 3rd-ranked goaltender and 18th-ranked prospect in the draft overall. Vencko should go early in the second round and might sneak into the late-1st if there is a particularly goalie-needy team. Tyler Lawson - C - Houston Bulls @Nyx The Bulls are a veritable factory of brand-new talent! Interestingly, Lawson is the first player on this list that naturally plays centre and is the third-ranked centre in the draft class overall. Lawson has a similar profile to a lot of these players in that he’s got great offensive vision, a good slapshot, and some flaws in other areas of his game, particularly defensively. Joining the Bulls mid-season, Lawson scored at a point-per-game pace in the regular season (56 points in 56 games) but fell off in the playoffs with just 5 points in 12 games. He’s ranked #22 and probably didn’t do enough this season to jump into the first round, but he’s a high upside player who could really reward a team that takes the plunge in the high or mid-2nd. Ray Stanton - D - San Diego Marlins @horoscope Stanton, a 5’10 185 pound defenseman who’s a little more offensively-inclined than most of the others in this draft, really stepped into the league in a big way with the Saskatoon Wild mid-season. He put up 21 points, 61 hits, and 42 blocks in just 18 games before being traded to the San Diego Marlins. Unfortunately, his production tailed off in a more structured system in San Diego leaving some questions as to whether his production was a product of just playing on a bad team or truly being great. Stanton has made some good progression over his short time in the league so far and is projected in the middle of the second round (ranked #25). Cody Toland - D - Houston Bulls @ctoland102 A gritty, 6’4 215 pound offensive defenseman, Toland likes to hit and isn’t afraid to mix it up, giving him a little bit of a different dimension compared to most of the other young defenders in this draft. The two main concerns with Toland at this stage in his career are that he’ll need to develop his defensive game to play a defensive position at the next level and, while his improvement has been consistent over the course of the season, he hasn’t taken the next step in his development like some of the other players in the class have. With 35 points, 213 hits, and 92 blocked shots for Houston this year, Toland definitely has a possible VHL career in his future, and I would expect him to be chosen somewhere in the late-2nd or early-3rd round. Oliver Loo - RW - Miami Marauders @Peiffy Loo is a well-rounded, two-way forward with a little less upside than many of the forwards we’ve covered so far, but has shown steady improvement throughout the year and plays a projectable game without many flaws. Because of his limited offensive upside, at least based on what we’ve seen so far, Loo is more of a project who will likely spend more time at the VHLM and VHLE levels. However, he’s a good skater and responsible defensively, two things that VHL teams love to see. Loo is another player who will probably be selected somewhere around the early-3rd round. Billy Joel - D - San Diego Marlins @The goat of hockey Joel is a similar player to Toland, except even bigger, but less refined defensively. Joel’s brand of defense is simply running guys over and while it’s effective at times and certainly fun to watch, he will need to develop that positioning and poke checking at some point in order to have a VHL career in the future. Joel is a real old school type player, a 6’5, 235 pound physical force who is very willing to drop the gloves. He’s also got a bomb of a shot when he wants to use it. He put up 20 points in 72 games with San Diego but, more importantly, 205 hits and 84 blocks with 106 PIM. The harder he practices, the quicker he will get better but for now it looks like whoever drafts Joel will have a long-term project on their hands, with probably VHL #4 defenseman type upside to him. He’s likely to go off the board in the early-3rd round. Jack Dickins - RW - Houston Bulls @Mystery_boy98 A big, well-rounded winger, Dickins has shown some steady improvement over the season and the consistency to eventually play at the VHL level if he can maintain that for a few seasons, but he’s definitely a couple of seasons away, starting with what will likely be another VHLM season to continue his development. Dickins put up 20 points in 64 games with Houston this year and is in line for a bump up in role with whichever VHLM team drafts him next season. How the next season or so goes for him will be the big determinant in whether or not the VHL is in his future, but he’s surely worth a pick in the 3rd round to figure that out. ~2020 words for the next 4 weeks
    16 points
  31. Acydburn

    Prague GM Position

    So this may come as a surprise to some and not to others. After the many seasons as being the GM of Prague I am stepping down. Life has become too hectic for me to handle everything at once so I am giving up my position as the GM of Prague. I will still be a commissioner though so I'm not leaving leaving. I wanted to thank everyone who has been/is on Prague. We were able to finally win a cup for the franchise! So with that said we will be looking for someone to take over as the GM of Prague! If you are interested in the opening, please post in this thread. Please do not contact the Commissioners outside of this thread, we will reach out to the chosen candidate privately. ***Please refrain from making comments regarding any candidates and their "worthiness" of being hired for this job, positive or negative. Any comment that is not an application will be removed to maintain a clean list of actual candidates, and (I hate that this actually needs to be said, but...) any member bashing will not be tolerated.***
    16 points
  32. First week is in the bags so here I am back with some completely incorrect predictions of what the following week might hold for all sixteen teams in the league. If you haven`t followed this series before I try to project/predict the next weeks standings; where I am usually wrong and the following week, we all point and laugh at how wrong I was the previous week. North American Conference Current Standings: 1. Los Angeles Stars 9 – 1 – 0 18pts 2. New York Americans 7 – 4 – 0 14pts 3. Calgary Wranglers 6 – 2 – 2 14pts 4. Chicago Phoenix 5 – 3 – 1 11pts 5. D.C. Dragons 3 – 3 – 3 9pts 6. Vancouver Wolves 4 – 4 – 1 9pts 7. Toronto Legion 3 – 5 – 2 8pts 8. Seattle Bears 3 – 7 – 1 7pts Next Week Predictions: 1. Los Angeles Stars Simple cannot see the stars losing that many games based on the strength of the roster and schedule but we could see a bit of surprise should Chicago put up more of a fight than I am currently expecting as these two teams play four times this next week, add in Vancouver, Riga and Seattle. Todd Cooke @KRZY and Larry Abass Jr @RileyL continue to be the offensive duel from years past leading the Stars in scoring but it has also been consistent secondary scoring across the whole roster that has the team leading in goals for with 42 after the first week of the season. Add in strong goaltending from Art Vandelay @Gustav and Los Angeles should hold down the top spot in the North American conference. 2. Calgary Wranglers While Calgary has a much tougher schedule in the second week with playing most of the European top teams and huge games against New York and Los Angeles. I think they will be able to do just enough to stay/move into second in the Conference standings or could easily slip back behind New York. Scoring overall for Calgary still seems to be a bit of an issue with the seventh best offense to end the week lead by Randy Bobandy @AJW, Oreo McFleury @JB123 and Raimo Tuominen @SlapshotWrangler but the most concern aspect to date this has to be the limited offense from Skor McFleury @Alex, who came over from Malmo to provide more offense from the back-end. Early days, but an interesting development to watch over the next few weeks. 3. New York Americans This week will really determine if New York early season success can be maintained through most of the season as they will face tough task this week with three games against London, two against Riga, games against Prague and Calgary. It could be a rough week or they could thrive; I am sitting on the fence with this one as I usually do, so they should at least keep pace with Calgary by the end of the week. Jasper Davis @Josh continue to show at the moment that it was no flash in the pans last season that he finished the season with 105pts as he lead the team with new acquired FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist @STZ; both currently in the top ten of scoring. Add in the surprisingly strong start to the season for Malum Maellard @frescoelmo, who was acquired from Calgary during the off-season. Bit concerning will the lack of secondary scoring at this point of the season but Rookie goaltender WWWW @rory has been more than able to hold down the net so far this season with only one questionable game so far against Los Angeles, only the best offensive team in the league. 4. Chicago Phoenix Could be a very tough week as they play the top team in the conference four times in the Los Angeles Stars. If they can manage to split these games with the Stars, they could actually move up the standing as high as second but I think this could be a tall ask for team that I have predicted to be around the wildcard spot for most of the season. Games against Vancouver and Seattle can soften the blow of playing the Stars. Yaroslav Trunov @qripll unsurprisingly leads the offense for the Phoenix after coming over in a trade from Malmo during the off-season. A strong start to the season from Dank Turtle @DankTurtle but overall Chicago is currently lacking a ton of offense; if it wasn`t for the strong play of Ryan Artyomov @Enorama, they would be a lot further down the standings. 5. D.C Dragons After a perfectly balanced week from the Dragons, I am not completely sold on this team yet but this week could go a long way to proving me wrong as D.C. face Chicago twice times this week in what should really be make or break games and Seattle for a three-game set; which D.C. needs to win if anyone is going to take them seriously. I think I am being a bit harsh on this team as they could move up as high as third if they do better then expected. Balanced offensive attack is currently lead by Jason @Jason kranz, Keegan Gamble @Keegan Gamble and The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath . On a huge positive the gamble to pay a heavy price to get a goaltender in Henry Tucker Jr @NSG so far has paid off as Tucker Jr has been a strong point for D.C. a week into the season. 6. Toronto Legion Defend Champions have started the same way as they really started last season, looking lost or maybe a bit uninterested but Toronto should really start to turn things around sooner than later but I am predicting another rather average week for the Legion as Toronto will play mixed bag of schedule with Europe coming a knocking with two games against Malmo, and Warsaw. Also playing Helsinki, London and Prague. Joel Castle @animal74 has been consistent in net for Toronto as expected but the high offense that Toronto was expected to employ has rather been quiet with Jimi Jaks @ke1vi and Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer leading the way. Toronto should be alright if they can get more secondary scoring. 7. Vancouver Wolves Who expected Vancouver to be 500 at this point of the season? Yeah, No one right!! If Los Angeles didn`t beat up on them in three straight games, Vancouver could have actually been higher in the standings and continue to play tough defensive hockey; keeping most game close. I expect this to change this week with Moscow, Toronto, New York and Los Angeles coming to town. While Vancouver will look forward to further success against Seattle(cough). Vancouver offense is being led by former Bear Ben McLaughlin @Ben mclaughlin and the lone survivor from Vancouver contending days in Liv Slater @Subject056. Rookie goaltender Dalkr Vidarsson @KaleebtheMighty is finding the transition to the VHL a bit tougher than expected but has still been more than serviceable for the Wolves. He will be happy when all the prospect join the roster next season fore sure!! 8. Seattle Bears Expected to be near the bottom of the Conference at the start of the season and guess what? Seattle is at the bottom of the standing but that might not actually be where they finish this week as the Bears play D.C. three times, Chicago and Vancouver twice; really all games that they could win if Justin Lion @Emperor_Fun can find the form that he had last season in Vancouver and Malmo. Scoring so far for the Bears has been consistent with defender Jack The Ripper @Ripper leading the way with Steve Lattimer @pugsood. It will be an interesting week to see if the Bears have an roar left in them. European Conference Current Standings: 1. Malmo Nighthawks 7 – 2- 2 16pts 2. Helsinki Titans 7 – 2 – 1 15pts 3. Moscow Menace 6 – 2 – 2 14pts 4. London United 5 – 2 – 2 12pts 5. Prague Phantoms 6 – 4 – 0 12pts 6. Riga Reign 4 – 5 – 1 9pts 7. Warsaw Predators 3 – 7 – 0 6pts 8. HC Davos Dynamo 2 – 7 – 2 6pts Next Week Predictions: 1. Prague Phantoms Continued inconsistency from last season but Prague is too good of a team to continue to be inconsistent, add two games against HC Davos and Moscow; Prague should have a good week so I have them moving up in the standing from 5th to 1st? Yeah, I am questioning myself as well as this could be too high but Prague should be top three in the European Conference by the end of the week if everything goes to plan. Matt Murdock @Acydburn has started slowly for the second straight season and Prague continue to relay too much on trio of John Jameson @Frank, Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide and Fred Hampton @TownBizness. Despite some of the inconsistencies I still have faith in Prague returning to a dominate team in Europe. We will see if it is blind faith or we placed faith!! 2. London United Mixed bag schedule but having HC Davos for two and Warsaw for two games means they are likely to have another week with a winning schedule. Add in New York two games; which is more of test for New York rather than I think for London. London could easily be first at the end of the week but the United also have a chance to drop a few games here or there so I cannot place them ahead of Prague. London put a lot of effort of keeping the three key forwards from last season together and if it wasn`t for Leonard Triller @Triller, Molly the Cat @JCarson and Wann Kerr @VattghernCZthen I think London would have a tough time scoring. Instead, all three are currently top 10 in scoring so secondary scoring will become a focus if London is going to go deep this season. Good thing London has Jesse Teno @aimkin; who once again is playing unreal!! 3. Malmo Nighthawks Can you say Helsinki? These two teams are going to be sick of each other as they play each other four times in the next week and I am not favoring either one so I am assuming a split series. Maybe doing Helsinki dirty since they have won both meeting so far this season and are still looking for the sweep but that is part of the problem predicting as if I predict Helsinki to sweep Malmo than reverse it etc… So Malmo should pay around 500 hockey this week so they side back to third in the standings. Malmo is being lead in scoring by Jacob Stone @scoop as he continue to show that he was ready to become the teams lead defender and trading Skor McFleury @Alex was a good idea!! But did they really trade Skor? Reese McFleury @Spaz needs to be checked to see if he is actually in fact Skor since he has been on fire to start the season and is putting up numbers similar to Skor. Consistent scoring through the line-up and solid goaltending from Ash Sparks @DarkSpyro should keep Malmo near the top of the conference all season. 4. Helsinki Titans I can copy and paste part of the Malmo Nighthawks preview since these two teams play each other so much next week but Helsinki also faces Riga and Calgary twice each; which the Continental Cup finals rematch against Toronto. Add in the tough London United team and you can start to see that Helsinki will be lucky if they come away with a 500 record. Helsinki could also sweep Malmo and make me look stupid. Daryl Dixon @Ricer13 and Kronchy Kardashian @Garsh are leading the attack of the Titans offense to know ones surprise. While Rookie Grimgor Ironhide @FrostBeard is currently leading the rookie scoring race. Fuukka Rask @Jubis is once again having himself a nice little season and Helsinki is proving the run to the finals last season was no fluke. 5. Moscow Menace After beating up on Warsaw last week as three of the six wins came against the Predators means Moscow will need to find someone else to beat up on this week so enter Vancouver for two games and HC Davos but the rest of the schedule is tougher with two games against Prague and a mixed bag of games against teams from North American conference. It will be interesting to see how this team fairs but I have gone conservative this week as I normally do; so, Moscow falls to 5th in the standings as European Conference stays tight. Axle Gunner @Steve has pick-up right where he left off last season and continue to impress leading Moscow in scoring with Jeff Lewis @nerji and rookie Leif Reingaard @Zetterberg keeping pace in what seems to be a new found balance attack that should menace the league this season. While fellow rookie goaltender Olober Syko @Spartan is showing why so many are high of this prospect coming into the season providing solid goaltending. 6. Riga Reign Very tough mixed bag of schedule will either see Riga become a play-off contender or as I am predicting kill almost any chance that they might have of making the play-off this season. New York, Los Angeles and Helsinki for two game each, not to mention Calgary, Prague and Malmo. Young team that is really just starting to develop into a contender is led by old man AK92 Wit da Hoodie @hedgehog337 and not as old man Babay Shrimp @Blazzer. While I think overall they would like to see more secondary scoring especially from Rookie Eric White Jr @Mysterious_Fish but overall Riga would be comfortable allowing the team develop and maybe collecting another nice prospect through the draft. Rookie goaltender Red Panda @Lemorse7 will need to be better if Riga is going to contend for a play-off spot this season. 7. Warsaw Predators A lot of talk around this team and their early season struggles; well, I am sad to say that I don`t see that ending this week as Warsaw faces London and Toronto twice, with Malmo, Prague and New York as other games. It is a tough schedule and it could be a tough week for a team that is hoping to making back into the play-off hunt by seasons end. This won`t help. Warsaw needs to find more overall offense from the likes of Dogwood Maple @dogwoodmaple and Alfred Champagne @Anthique. While Rookie Thor Reingaard @N0HBDY continue putting solid numbers keeping himself amongst best rookies in the league. Veteran goaltender Clueless Wallob @DMaximus simply put needs to be way better if this team has any hope of turning their season around. 8. HC Davos Dynamo Rebuild is fully engaged and I was actually surprised that they won two games this week after (if I am correct) starting the season with seven straight losses. Expect a losing record again this week but with Seattle and Chicago being two games that the team might have a chance but also expect them to upset some teams as they did Helsinki and Riga at the end of last week. Lachlan Summers @kirbithan is proving that it isn`t all hills of flowers and summer all the time in Davos as Summers has struggled with a much weaker defense in front of him this season. The only remaining piece not to be sold during the off-season is leading the team in scoring; who is David Jokinen @Ahma. Hard to say anything nice about a team that has just entered a full rebuild and is in full tank mode. That it for the first week review and next weeks predictions. As always tell me below in the comment section how poor my prediction are and I will make sure to read them. Either way until next week Keep the sticks on the ice and your heads up!!
    16 points
  33. @Doomsday Hi everyone, this article was initially set to be out a while ago, but due to real life things got delayed a bit. Still using the old graphic though as Doomsday put in a lot of work in this top tier graphic. In line with yesterday's article we'll be taking a look at each teams offseason so far and what can be expected down the road. Calgary Wranglers - Buyer S91 Record - 30-30-12 Projected Cap Space - $2,500,000 Number of resigned players - 11/11 The new Calgary GM @leandrofgdoesn’t really have much to do this offseason, while they don’t have their first the assignment this offseason is fairly straight forward, use the remaining cap space to sign a 4th defensemen. Calgary should have a fairly quiet offseason, but stay tuned for them to maybe make a big swing. Chicago Phoenix - Conservative Buyer S91 Record - 35-23-14 Projected Cap Space - $28,000,000 Number of resigned players - 9/11 Chicago has a very strong young base, addition of veterans could help the team over the edge, and watch for them to potentially go all-in though with this season's surprise success . The addition of Yaroslav Trunov @qripll is a needed step, and Chicago could likely continue down this path and could stand to take another step forward. The main area of concern is with the retirement of Scotty Sundin @fromtheinside and filling the void that they left. Chicago will be busy this offseason and could be a top candidate to draft the one and only Wayne Gretzky @MubbleFubbles. DC Dragons - Buyer S91 Record - 36-26-8 Projected Cap Space - $8,500,000 Number of resigned players - 9/10 I have D.C. in a very weird spot, they have a great roster for the most part, but do not have a goaltender signed and while Geoff Bezos @Quik is serviceable, they are a step below the true talent that is needed to compete at the top of the league. We can expect D.C. to try and acquire an elite goaltender via trade as there aren't any top goalies in free agency. Other than that the roster is very solid, but if they can’t figure out their goaltending it’s hard to say how they’ll do this coming season. Los Angeles Stars - Buyer S91 Record - 46-19-7 Projected Cap Space - $4,500,000 Number of resigned players - 10/11 Los Angeles' best chance is now, with the oldest roster in the league, they will have at most 1 more season to compete. We can expect LA to go all-in this offseason as they push for that elusive cup. Most of their roster retires after this season, so they really only have one season left before a rebuild. LA should be one of the most active teams in the free agent and trade market this season as they will be looking to put together the best possible roster in a short amount of time. New York Americans - Conservative Buyer? S91 Record - 29-38-5 Projected Cap Space - $28,500,000 Number of resigned players - 6/11 New York’s direction this offseason is widely unknown, they have a bunch of pending free agents specifically Jesper Davis @Josh, and plenty of young prospects, all of whom could find themselves in the ROTY conversation. If New York decides to buy, they are a little bit limited on the draft capital that they can send out, and a patient approach may be best. While playoffs are certainly not out of the question there is a lot to be done, not much time, and some decisions to make, new GM @STZ certainly has their work cut out for them. New York also has the 1st overall pick for the 2nd season in a row and will be looking to pick up a franchise player, likely looking towards the forwards as they already have CGY Janser @Daniel Janser on D. Seattle Bears - Seller S91 Record - 27-34-11 Projected Cap Space - $33,000,000 Number of resigned players - 6/6 Seattle has already been active in the trade market, and look to be continuing their rebuild, they already have some key pieces in place and will be looking to build upon that in the draft 5th overall. With the prospect pool fairly empty we can maybe expect Seattle to trade down to grab a goaltender or maybe just take the best player available. It will be a tough call and a long road ahead for Seattle. Toronto Legion - Buyer S91 Record - 46-24-2 Projected Cap Space - $15,500,000 Number of resigned players - 6/10 The Continental Cup Champions have a lot of work to do with only 6 players signed for next season and FA opening in a couple days. While cap space isn’t a concern right now, Toronto will have to make some choices and quickly. Sogaard’s @Brandon retirement does help with the cap space, but the number of pending FAs is certainly concerning. Look for Toronto to hopefully get the players signed quickly, if not we could expect a busy trade market as the team will need to get ready for the season in a hurry. Vancouver Wolves - Conservative Seller S91 Record - 21-42-9 Projected Cap Space - $29,500,000 Number of resigned players - 4/9 Holy first round picks! Vancouver has amassed 6 S92 first round picks, which is honestly kind of impressive. These picks will go a long way too, they already have several key pieces in place with FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist and Liv Slater, along with future franchise goaltender Dalkr Vidarsson. We can expect Vancouver to have a very strong draft as well, as they’ll be looking to add both forwards and defensemen as they draft early and often. While Vancouver doesn't have much to sell, we could maybe expect them to move some smaller pieces to competing teams that are in more of a cap crunch. HC Davos Dynamo - Conservative Seller S91 Record - 49-16-7 Projected Cap Space - $24,500,000 Number of resigned players - 7/8 An era has come to an end in Davos with the retirement of Jake Thunder @Thunder and Pete Mitchell @Crstats23. With this we have seen Davos selling off their remaining pieces, the only reason why I don’t have Davos as a full blown seller is long term commitments to David Jokinen @Ahma and Lachlan Summers @kirbithan. We can look for Davos to likely take on salary where needed from top teams and maybe be active in free agency to try and supplement their remaining pieces and maybe add a new top forward. Helsinki Titans - Conservative Buyer S91 Record - 41-27-4 Projected Cap Space - $1,500,000 Number of resigned players - 11/11 Round 2 anyone? Helsinki is back with essentially the exact same roster, Wolanin’s @jacobcarson877 retirement helps them avoid cap hell, and Grimor Ironside @FrostBeard comes up to fill the void. Helsinki will likely have the smoothest offseason out of any team in the league as @samx just has to sit back and relax at this point. They will have a bit of cap space if they wish to do anything, but their roster is still one of, if not the best in the league. London United - Conservative Buyer S91 Record - 44-19-9 Projected Cap Space - $13,000,000 Number of resigned players - 8/11 London is in a very strange spot right now following the retirement of two of their top defensemen. They have a great forward core led by Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ, Molly the Cat @JCarson, and Leonard Triller @Triller and Jesse Teno @aimkin in goal. But, their blueline leaves something to be desired, we can expect London to be active in the trade market as they look to add defensemen, they’ll also likely try to make a big splash in Free Agency. Malmo Nighthawks - Buyer S91 Record - 45-22-5 Projected Cap Space - $7,000,000 Number of resigned players - 10/11 Malmo had to make one trade this offseason to free up cap space which saw the departure of Yaroslav Trunov. This leaves them with 7 million to bring in another defensemen and maybe make improvements elsewhere on their roster. Malmo does have a bit of momentum right now following a disappointing loss, but with most of their roster returning they should enter S92 very fired up and ready to go. Malmo will likely be fairly active on the trade scene or in Free Agency to polish up their roster. Moscow Menace - conservative buyer S91 Record - 19-43-10 Projected Cap Space - $20,000,000 Number of resigned players - 9/15 Moscow could just be in the best position out of everyone in the league right now, almost their entire roster is high earning players on ELCs or players that are just hitting their prime. While Moscow will likely be letting some players go to FA, their roster is solid and may just compete for the playoffs or at least be in the race. In particular goaltender Olober Syko @Spartan enters next season as the favourite for the ROTY honours. Prague Phantoms - Hold S91 Record - 39-26-7 Projected Cap Space - -$500,000 Number of resigned players - 12/12 Prague is in a really weird spot right now following a disappointing S91. Their entire roster is signed for this season as Kyle Toms @Ktoms22 and Conference Prince-de-Galles @UnkemptCL4PTP join the big club alongside recently acquired Spanish Moon Moth @Renomitsu. The only slight issue for Prague comes with their cap as they are currently projected to be $500,00 over the cap, however this can be solved easily by moving one of their five defensemen which will free up at least $1,000,000 for improvements elsewhere in the roster if @Acydburn sees fit. We can look for Prague to make 1 or 2 minor moves, but for the most part their roster is set and is looking to return to their S90 form. Riga Reign - Conservative Buyer S91 Record - 49-17-6 Projected Cap Space - 11,500,000 Number of resigned players - 12/15 Following last offseason where we saw an exodus of big names leaving Riga, many thought that they would just miss the playoffs and they went ahead and proved everyone wrong. With a renewed young core, Riga has quickly become a top team of the future and still has plenty of draft capital as well. It is hard to find a gap in their roster, outside of needing a true number 1 defensemen, as their forwards should continue to improve to provide the needed scoring and their goaltending is set for the next 9 or so seasons. Warsaw Predators - Buyer S91 Record - 20-48-4 Projected Cap Space - $14,500,000 Number of resigned players - 10/13 Warsaw came out this season determined to end the rebuild, they quickly brought in all of Alfred Champagne @Anthique, Dogwood Maple @dogwoodmaple, Rex Wolffe Gregor @oilmandan, and Clueless Wallob @DMaximus from Davos and Seattle. This supplements their young core group of forwards centered around Maxim Anisimov @McLovin and King Kisslinger @Kisslinger. With that being said there is still some serious question marks here as their defense leaves something to be desirted, and a long-term solution in goal is needed. We can look for Warsaw to likely continue to buy to round out their roster or lean heavily on FA.
    16 points
  34. While Asia has not gotten off to the start we'd hoped, the team has fought extremely hard given the WJC regime leaders @Zetterberg @samx harsh system against Team Asia. Despite this, we fight hard to remain one of the strongest hockey teams in the world and will always represent Asia proudly. As management for Asia, we are happy to lead and hope to give the players involved with Asia the best experience possible. With that being said, @kirbithan has done an incredible amount of work behind the scenes to make up some trading cards for Team Asia. I was doing some up in Paint myself, but let's just say I'm really glad to of gotten the PM from Kirbi letting me know they had already started ahead of when I thought they'd be. Kirbi exceeded expectations but that's why I reached out to them!! Thank you so much for coming and being part of Team Asia
    16 points
  35. ctots

    16 Shoutouts

    I don’t know about you guys, but the news that the VHL is 16 years old really blew my hair back. That’s a long time for fellas to gather around a pretend hockey league, and I love that. It speaks to the power of community, and specifically this community. You guys are great. In honor of all of you and in honor of the VHL’s 16th birthday, I’m giving out 16 shoutouts to users who help make the league amazing. @JardyB10 – Starting off strong with the influential legend himself. Jardy my dude, your podcasting skills are unmatched. Truly something to behold. I sincerely BjorkBjorn breaks their ankles in Europe and is forced to retire early just so you have an excuse to make more content. The people demand it, Jardy. I know your adult life driving on rural roads and heating minerals is thrilling and wonderful, but you can do both. You can do it all. @MubbleFubbles – our first interaction was me asking you to be my co-gm in the OST for Team Royals, when Team Clue was an option and your player was TBGCOS. I had no idea that’s who your player was, and I’m glad that I made that faux pas because you’re a cool dude and I enjoyed learning about GMing from you. It’s a fond memory from my early times here. Your podcasts are always enjoyable and insightful, too. Top marks all around. @Lemorse7– No one in the VHL thought to ask if we needed more red pandas around until you got here and made it clear that the league needs at least one red panda around all the time. You’re a true discord amigo. I don’t even think we’ve played on the same team before, and that’s beautiful to me. @Thunder – My favorite shark in the league by far. So glad I got to spend some time hanging in the locker room with you. I really appreciate being included in your media spots and stuff – nothing delights me more than getting a ping from one of your articles. @JB123 – Oslo’s best GM ever, hands down. Your welcoming attitude when I came on as AGM was really reassuring. Thanks for all the good that you bring to the VHL. @Enorama – Eno! You got Baxter Arcanum a cup! D.C. is legendary (in my mind) and it’s all thanks to you. From the dog pics to the gallery wall to the book discussions, I ate up every bit of that locker room. Somehow you filled it with delicious culture, and I’m sure it wasn’t easy. You’re a master of your craft. @FrostBeard – Third in the shoutouts in terms of my former GMs, but #1 in my heart. Bees and streaming, what more could we ask for? @Grape – Thanks for keeping Ottawa competitive this season. We’ve had some struggles with bad luck and OTLs, but spirits are high and we all appreciate the effort that you’re putting in to lead the team. @thadthrasher – Thad, you’re the moral compass that this league needs. Or really you’re just a generally good person who cares, and those are rare qualities. I encourage you to continue being great. @samx – You do too much. You’re in all the discords. You might be AI. In spite of all that, you’re a really important part of the community. VHL wouldn’t be the same without you talking about how much you don’t want to be around the children under your care. @Berocka – Berocka for Elmebeck. Every season. All of the work you do for the league is valuable. I love Super Coach! I also love Bite Sized Berocka. Bonus shout out to your kiwi friend Buruku. You’re lighthearted and positive and that provides good balance to some of the gloomier figures in the league. @dasboot – I’m sorry I missed the heyday of you and Berocka doing VHLN Australia, but I’ve listened through a lot of the backlog in the last year or so. You make a great teammate in the Lynx LR, and I hope we get a chance to play together again in the bigs. @Spartan – When I think of forum activity, I think of you. You’re always approving my updates, which is much appreciated. You also tend to be one of the first people to react or comment on my content, which is super cool and shows how involved you are. I’d be scared to get in a car with you, but I’d trust you with mostly anything else. @Daniel Janser – You know in the Avatar movie, where there’s that big bird dinosaur thing that just cruises high in the sky without a worry because he’s so strong and well-respected? You’re the VHL version of that weird dinosaur bird. I mean this in the kindest, most respectful way possible. You’re an unstoppable force. Respect. @Tate – I haven’t heard from you in a while but I found your podcasts to be super relatable – our kids are around the same age I think. Also really love your delivery of *PACIFIC* when reading the time. You’re a swell guy. @jRuutu – You’re the resident pot-stirrer of the league, and that’s what I love about you. You really know how to get the people riled up and create some conversation. You raise interesting points, too. Thanks for keeping an eye on the people in charge for us. Thanks for making the VHL a good place on the internet.
    16 points
  36. Hello and welcome to one of my most unhinged projects yet. I have scoured through the VHL archives to identify every single instance of a repeated last name in history, the sole criterion being that the players made it to the VHL (i.e. VHLM and/or VHLE lifers are excluded). This also means that whilst the list includes all active VHL players as of S92, it doesn't include anyone who is about to come up to the big leagues or has announced their draft eligibility. 268 repeat last names were identified throughout VHL history and then sorted to identify the most common last name in the VHL's storied past. But since the work was done to identify each name, I will make it a countdown from names used twice all the way to the all-time leader at 12. Behold. Names used 2x in VHL history 188 names have appeared twice in the past and whilst the list is copied in below, I won't dwell on it for too long. This section contains Hall of Famers and completely forgotten journeymen, it has brothers, fathers and sons, and even families separated by multiple generations. Most frequently, it contains completely random and coincidental repeats, separated by as many as 90 seasons. There are two facts of most interest in this category: Two names have a 100% Hall of Fame success rate – Sterling (father) and Alexander (son) Labatte, as well as the Clegane brothers There has twice been a pair of Mario and Luigi in the VHL – the Linguinis and the De Rossis Names used 3x in VHL history 55 more names added to the list in this category which doesn't really have any fun tidbits to pull out – seems to be a higher proportion of recognisable names than in the first section. What this exercise has been actually helpful in is identifying some duplicates I had in the all-time stats spreadsheet from the 60s. Not sure how those happened but they're gone now. Perhaps one other thing worth mentioning is that in addition to the two Ryans in the above 2x list, there was also a man simply named Ryan in the VHL at one point. Unfortunately that Ryan counts as someone with a last name so the Ryans do not manage to make the cut for the 3x list. The Top 24 We are now in the top end of the ranking, as at 4 appearances each, the pool dwindles considerably. There are 13 names which show up exactly 4 times: The Bakers (Abel, Joseph, Patrick, and Shane) The Carters (Alex, Donny, Jared and Jared the 2st (sic)) The Clarkes (Daniel, Dean, Jon, and Will) – two of whom, Dean and Will, are unrelated but were both of the cup-winning S70 Moscow squad The Downeys (Bahr, Jeff (both the S1 and much more successful S68 incarnation) and the original Jeff's brother Ryan) The Eagles (two Gregs, Henry, and Tom) – brought to us exclusively by @Greg_Di. Greg Eagleowski sadly doesn't make the cut. The Funks (brothers and Builders Dust'n and Raymond and decades later playoff hero Rayz and the less notable Frank Jr) The Kings (Kevin, Markus, Roctrion, and Thomas) The Komarovs (Evgeni, Pavel, Sergei, and Vladamir) – also the sole work of one man, @Gooningitup The Matthews (Anthony, Luke, Mitchell, and Wesley) The Millers (Alec, Jackson, MF Percy, and Nicholas) The Syndergaards (two Aksels, Thomas, and Tomas) The Williams (AJ, Justin, Robinson, and Tyrone) and the Youngs (Alex, Christopher, Naomi, and Zachary) 5 names then, fittingly, show up 5 times over the years: Davis (David, Finn, Jake, Jasper, and Roque) – almost entirely hauled up the list by @Josh's obsession with the name Hamilton (brothers Phil, Jeff, and David (Phil and Jeff making the Hall) and also the lesser-known Drew and Josh) Knight (Blake, David, Jordan, Ricky, Steven) – remarkably only once used by either @Phil or David @Knight – the actual Knight brothers choosing to be Hamilton brothers in the VHL instead Reinhart (Asher, Jerome, Reylynn, Tobias, and Tyler all being prominent in the 80s) Tremblay (Dan, Danny, Pierre-Marc, Steve and the man himself (not really), Simon Tremblay) Then in joint fifth place... 6 Hunters (Alyksander, Blade, Braxton, JaKobe, Jeff, and Kurtis) 6 Jokinens (Alvaro, David, Diego, Erlantz, Fabio, and Fernando) – courtesy of the Finnish fiends @Ahma and @jRuutu 6 Smiths (Cody, Jacob, Josh, Lucas, Steve, and Trevor) – all extremely forgettable just like the name In joint third place we have the Wilsons (Aaron, Al, Connor, Dusty, Jesse, Josh, and Wade), 7 completely unrelated and largely irrelevant players, and the Gow brothers (@Fire Tortorella and @eaglesfan036) who have brought 7 Gows (Austin, Bernie, Jeff, Jim, Robert III, Robin, and Shayne) to the VHL before branching off into more creative names. Jones is the second most popular last name in VHL history with 9 players (Bob, Casey, Dallas, Dan, Davey, Jay, Kered, Mason, and Ty) over the years. Davey Jones as part of the 30s Dynamo and Casey Jones who had a Labatte-winning rookie season in S57 and then was part of the USA's most prolific World Cup years are easily the most successful of the Joneses. Clear at the top it's the Johnsons though – 12 of them specifically. We've had Bossman, Brent, Gabrial, Gabriel, Kobe, Leroy, Michael, Miles, Phil “The Rock”, Regie, Reid, and Ricky. Yes I was also hoping for a more impressive list but Michael and Phil have definitely elevated the Johnsons' profile in more recent season and Kobe is active in the VHL as we speak. Will anyone catch them? Only time will tell.
    15 points
  37. Note beforehand: I selected players for this based on appropriate ratings, not stats - so it's entirely possible some of the players here are not having all-star calibre seasons, or players who deserve to be at the all-star game were not selected. Also, I made sure every team had at least one player in the skills comp, and the results were determined relatively randomly with some consideration given to the appropriate ratings... I didn't use any kind of script or anything for this. It's all just made up. --- DC: Welcome to Los Angeles for the VHL All-Star Skills Competition! I'm Dan Callaghan for VSN and with me today is Landon Fairhaven. With players from each of the VHL's 16 teams in attendance competing for the All-Star Cup, testing their skills in a variety of different competitions, let's get right into the fun times! LF: First up, we have the Hardest Shot competition. Competitors will get two attempts each and only the best will count. One point will go to the team with the winning player and one point will go to the overall winning team. Your competitors for the Hardest Shot are: John Jameson (Prague) @Frank-- 97 ST, 89 SC, 6'3 215 Wann Kerr (London) @VattghernCZ -- 99 ST, 88 SC, 5'9 189 Todd Cooke (Los Angeles) @KRZY-- 99 ST, 89 SC, 6'6 190 Jimi Jaks (Toronto) @ke1vi -- 99 ST, 90 SC, 6'0 190 ATTEMPT 1: John Jameson 96.4 MPH / Wann Kerr 97.2 MPH Todd Cooke 99.7 MPH / Jimi Jaks 81.4 MPH DC: Well, Landon, three pretty good efforts there and then it looked like Jimi Jaks didn't get much on their attempt, but fortunately, they will all get another crack at it. LF: Todd Cooke is probably the favourite in this event and got a pretty good blast off there! They'll be tough to beat. They're so strong and that 6'6 frame can really get a lot of leverage to rip a puck. Let's see what happens. ATTEMPT 2: John Jameson 98.5 MPH / Wann Kerr 95.4 MPH Todd Cooke 100.1 MPH / Jimi Jaks 99.2 MPH FINAL RESULTS: John Jameson 98.5 MPH / Wann Kerr 97.2 MPH / EU Total: 195.7 MPH Todd Cooke 100.1 MPH / Jimi Jaks 99.2 MPH / NA Total: 199.3 MPH DC: You called it Landon - Todd Cooke comes through and even gives us a triple-digit blast. And his teammate Jimi Jaks is going to come in second here after a much better shot! That puts the North American Conference up 2-0 after the first event. Next up, we've got the Accuracy Shooting competition! Players will shoot until they hit all 4 targets. One point will go to the team with the winning player and one point to the overall winning team. Your competitors for Accuracy Shooting are: Molly the Cat (London) @JCarson -- 92 SC, 91 WS Nikolas Kauppi (Prague) @Tetricide -- 88 SC, 90 WS EU Conference Passer: Babay Shrimp (Riga) @Blazzer (91 PA) Jason (DC) @Jason kranz -- 90 SC, 91 WS Napoleon Dynamite (Los Angeles) @thadthrasher -- 88 SC, 93 WS) NA Conference Passer: Randy Bobandy (Calgary) @AJW (89 PA) RESULTS: Molly the Cat: 4 for 4, 9.1 seconds Nikolas Kauppi: 4 for 6, 15.5 seconds EU Total: 8 for 10, 24.6 seconds Jason: 4 for 5, 13.2 seconds Napoleon Dynamite: 4 for 6, 14.2 seconds NA Total: 8 for 11, 27.4 seconds LF: Molly the Cat shows off the quick release on their wrist shot AND their deadly accuracy with a very impressive 4 for 4, and in just 9.1 seconds - a fantastic performance! DC: The EU ties up the Skills Comp as they grab the team point for this one, too. It was a good performance by Jason here but this one shot here, their fourth attempt, just barely misses the target and rings the iron. LF: It keeps things interesting though! 2-2 after two events. There are a lot of young fans in here right now having a great time, meeting the players and getting a competitive event. That's what it's all about! DC: Well, now we shift our attention to the Fastest Skater competition! This one's a real fan favourite. Each player will get two attempts with only their best lap counting. As with the other events, one point goes to the team with the winning player and one to the overall winning team. Let's meet the competitors for the Fastest Skater: Jacob Stone (Malmo) @scoop-- 92 SK, 6'6 222 Daryl Dixon (Helsinki) @Ricer13 -- 90 SK, 5'10 170 Liv Slater (Vancouver) @Subject056 -- 88 SK, 5'9 148 The Frenchman (DC) @OrbitingDeath -- 90 SK, 5'11 170 ATTEMPT 1: Jacob Stone: 17.206 seconds / Daryl Dixon: 14.069 seconds Liv Slater: 14.401 seconds / The Frenchman: 15.209 seconds DC: Jacob Stone might be the guy with the best top-end speed here but had some trouble with one of the corners and couldn't get it back together. Daryl Dixon had a lightning-quick lap with a real competitive time and it looked like The Frenchman just didn't get up to speed in time, they're capable of better, but let's see how this second run goes! ATTEMPT 2: Jacob Stone: 14.854 seconds / Daryl Dixon: 14.312 seconds Liv Slater: 14.188 seconds / The Frenchman: 14.552 seconds FINAL RESULTS: Jacob Stone: 14.854 seconds / Daryl Dixon: 14.069 seconds / EU Total: 28.923 seconds Liv Slater: 14.188 seconds / The Frenchman: 14.552 seconds / NA Total: 28.740 seconds LF: Well, that was exciting! All four players really flew around the rink on that one. Three of them improved on their times. DC: But ultimately nobody touches Daryl Dixon's first lap here! 14.069 is an excellent time. Liv Slater gave it a really good run, their acceleration and agility was clearly on display. The team score is very close here but it looks like the NA will take that point, countering the point Dixon gets for the EU. LF: So we have a 3-3 tie! But now we get to the real good part... DC: It's time for the Shootout competition! Each player will take two shootout attempts on the opposing netminder. One point is awarded for each goal scored! Let's meet the players: AK92 Wit da Hoodie (Riga) @hedgehog337 -- 94 PH, 78 PS Left Alone (Moscow) @okochastar -- 90 PH, 80 PS Alfred Champagne (Warsaw) @Anthique -- 88 PH, 78 PS EU Goaltender: Fuukka Rask (Helsinki) @Jubis -- 64 PS Skor McFleury (Calgary) @Alex -- 94 PH, 78 PS Severus Targaryen (Seattle) @Banackock -- 85 PH, 74 PS Mac Atlas (Toronto) @v.2 -- 92 PH, 80 PS NA Goaltender: Art Vandelay (Los Angeles) @Gustav -- 55 PS DC: Coming in for their first attempt it's the VHL's current leading scorer, AK92 Wit da Hoodie. LF: 30 goals and 62 points in 39 games so far this year, those are stunning numbers. You know they can put the puck in the net. DC: A lovely little forehand-backhand move there and Vandelay is caught out of position! Chalk up a goal for the EU there! And trying to match that now will be Skor McFleury of the Calgary Wranglers. McFleury comes in with speed and a flurry of moves! LF: I see what you did there. DC: He puts it past Rask and our score is now 4-4! Back to the EU Conference's turn, it's Left Alone. He skates in, toe drag, a great little move but Vandelay stones him! An excellent blocker save from Vandelay! LF: So the North American Conference will have a chance to take the lead here. Severus Targaryen, second-year pro from the Seattle Bears will take the shot. DC: It looks like he bobbles the puck here a bit picking it up but makes a nice recovery, walks in, takes the puck to the backhand but puts it wide. LF: Rask gave him no room there, he tracked the puck really well all the way across. Targaryen was looking for whatever little space was there but there wasn't any. DC: Alfred Champagne, the Warsaw representative here, will get a chance now. He skates in, fires a quick shot but it looks like Vandelay was ready for that one all the way. Now we have Mac Atlas to take the shot. He's got Rask on his heels as he comes in fast, takes a shot and oh my! He scores! That shot couldn't have been placed any better. LF: No chance for the goalie there, that's why Atlas has back-to-back 40-goal seasons. DC: North America has a 5-4 lead here. We'll go in reverse order for the second try, so it's right back to Atlas. He's got the moves this time! Takes it out wide, comes back in, backhand-forehand-backhand and a lovely finish - that's two magnificent goals from Atlas. That one's really got the crowd going. LF: And North America has a 6-4 edge. Champagne is back out to try to narrow the gap. DC: Ohhhh and he wires it off the crossbar! A more promising effort than the first one but Champagne can't quite bulge the twine. It's a chance for the North American team to take a stranglehold here and Targaryen comes back out. Targaryen comes in quick and - oh! Would you look at that, he tries to go between the legs and that would've been something magical but Rask wasn't fooled. LF: A good job by Rask of staying in position with the fancy move happening right in front of him. DC: Left Alone, driving out wide to the left side of the ice and now he slows it down as he cuts back in, fires and scores! LF: Alone catches Vandelay here by changing the angle and beats him low blocker with a well-placed wrister. The lead is back down to one, it's 6-5 for North America. DC: Skor McFleury coming back in here. Flying out wide, now cutting all the way back across the circles and he slides the puck through Rask! LF: McFleury is so smooth out there, not hard to tell why he's one of the best defensemen in the league. He probably would've had a chance in the Fastest Skater and he put that speed to good use there, really put Rask in a bad spot. DC: AK92 Wit da Hoodie is hoping to keep the lead at one before we get into the Breakaway Relay. He pulls up at the dots and tries a slapshot! And it works! Oh, the fans love that. He caught Vandelay off guard by going for the slapper there. LF: And it was a heck of a shot, too! What a rocket. DC: So with that, we have a 7-6 score in the skills comp. And we've got one final event to decide it all! It's the 3-on-0 Breakaway Relay. Teams of 2 forwards and 1 defenseman will take three 3-on-0 attempts against the opposing netminder, with one point awarded for each goal scored. Here are the Breakaway Relay lineups! Yaroslav Bogatyrev (Malmo) @Bojovnik-- 85 SK, 87 PH, 69 PA, 89 SC Leonard Triller (London) @Triller-- 91 SK, 94 PH, 94 PA, 83 SC Pierre Emile Bouchard (Helsinki) @Gaikoku-hito -- 84 SK, 91 PH, 85 PA, 87 SC EU Goaltender: Lachlan Summers (Davos) @kirbithan Francesco Mancini (New York) @GioSivo -- 87 SK, 86 PH, 91 PA, 86 SC Yaroslav Trunov (Chicago) @qripll -- 80 SK, 88 PH, 67 PA, 85 SC Mark Calaway (DC) @Beketov -- 87 SK, 90 PH, 68 PA, 90 SC NA Goaltender: Merome Dilson (Calgary) @MexicanCow123 DC: And here we go! Triller picks the puck up at centre for Europe and he comes in fast! Pass to Bouchard, who one-touches it back to Triller, and oh my! He pulls Dilson out of position beautifully and sends a magnificant feed to Bogatyrev. That's a tap-in for Big Boga and our skills comp is tied. LF: Triller led the league in assists last year and he's one of the most crafty players in a league where shooters get a lot of the attention. That right there is what a great playmaker can do! DC: Mark Calaway moves the puck ahead to Trunov here and the NA team is in on Lachlan Summers. Trunov passes off to Mancini, he throws it back to Calaway who fakes a shot, passes back to Trunov, but the pass is a bit off and bounces away from Trunov, an unfortunate break there. It looks like the EU is sticking with what's working as Triller picks the puck up with speed and flies over the line. Throws on the breaks and gives the puck to Bogatyrev, he sends it back to Bouchard and Bouchard rips the shot home! Suddenly, Europe has taken the lead! LF: Nothing like a good back-and-forth competition! DC: This time Mancini will run the play for North America. He fakes a shot and passes to Trunov who hesitates, drops it back for Calaway and he lets a rocket go! It's off the post and into the back of the net! LF: Calaway is one of those guys with a great shot from the back end and he shows it off there. No defending that one! DC: So, the teams are tied and we have one attempt each left. LF: Oh, the drama! You know, it's just a skills competition but these guys are competitors. They don't want to lose, especially when it gets to the end and it's this close. DC: Triller with a little razzle-dazzle as he puts on a spin move as he picks the puck up! He passes it to Bouchard, to Bogatyrev, back to Bouchard and back to Triller for the finish! Brilliant passing and the European Conference goes up 9-8! LF: That right there is why a 3-on-0 is a goalie's worst nightmare. There's nothing Dilson can do about that. I talked about that Calaway shot earlier being impossible to defend, but this play here is just another level entirely. DC: It's a must-score situation for the NA trio and Trunov picks the puck up. He runs a little give-and-go with Calaway, moves it over to Mancini. Mancini tries a move and OH NO! He lifts it just a shade over the net! Mancini had Summers beat but gets a bit too much on it. LF: That was an excellent move and Summers here goes for the poke check, Mancini just gets around him, this probably should be a goal but he just got a little too excited there and skies it! What a finish. DC: That's a tough one for Mancini, but at the end of the day, this event was for the fans and hey, they got their money's worth! A dazzling display of skills from the VHL's most talented players and a thrilling scoreline overall. Congrats to Team Europe for ultimately grabbing the 9-8 win - we hope you enjoyed the show! --- 2484 words so claiming for the next 4 weeks
    15 points
  38. Here we are trade deadline done, would be All-star games done and everyone one is now looking forward to the play-offs but before we can even really talk about the play-off we have to finish a week and half of the season sims. A lot can still change with Calgary Wranglers and Los Angeles Stars fighting over who is going to win the North American Conference. Moscow Menace can kill any chance that New York Americans have of making the play-offs as they chase down Malmo Nighthawks for the Europe Conference lead; not to mention most likely the Victory Cup. Lets not forget about Draft Lottery with a ton on the line as Vancouver Wolves, HC Davos Dynamo, Riga Reign, Warsaw Predators and Seattle Bears. New York Americans trying to stay a live and Chicago Phoenix sneaking into the Play-offs? We will talk about most of this as we try to predict another week in the VHL!! Current Standings: Standings Record Points Last Wk Prediction Last Wk 1. Calgary Wranglers 35-13-4 74pts (11-3-0) 2nd North American Conference 2. Los Angeles Stars 33-14-4 70pts (4-7-2) 1st North American Conference 3. D.C. Dragons 28-17-6 62pts (6-5-3) 3rd North American Conference 4. Toronto Legion 25-24-3 53pts (8-6-0) 5th North American Conference 5. Chicago Phoenix 24-24-3 51pts (8-5-1) 6th North American Conference 6. New York Americans 20-27-5 45pts (2-11-1) 4th North American Conference 7. Vancouver Wolves 17-30-4 38pts (3-9-2) 7th North American Conference 8. Seattle Bears 12-36-4 28pts (3-11-1) 8th North American Conference Reason: Calgary controlled their games against Los Angeles going 3-0 in the three-game set with another game set to start the week between both teams; this six-point swing in the standings is the different between Calgary claiming first in the conference rather than the predicated second. I wrote off Chicago last week; which as usually is the kiss of life as they destroyed New York this week 4-0 in the head-to-head series bring them right back into the play-off contention. New York fell apart this week thanks mainly to Chicago; with their only two wins coming in the final two days of sims. Luckily as we will get into soon New York has much easier schedule next week. Next Weeks Predictions: 1. Huge game at the start of the week might determine who actually finish first in the conference this week as Los Angeles and Calgary face off in a single game. D.C. Dragons and Chicago Phoenix will provide the biggest games of the week with two and three games respectively. I think Calgary should handle themselves against both of those teams so should be one of the hotter teams in the league; if I am wrong, they could easily find themselves with a five hundred record at the end of the week but should be enough to keep the Wranglers ahead in the standings. Calgary continues to get solid goaltending from Merome Dilson @MexicanCow123(2.29GA, 0.934sav% & 5 SO); which has them as one of the best defensive teams in the league. Add in a top five offense lead by Randy Bobandy @AJW(26G – 41A – 67pts(10th League)) and it not hard to see why Calgary is at the top of the North American Conference. 2. Last week I was correct that the Stars would face their most challenging week of the season and had a losing record for the first time this season. Well, a mixed bag schedules a waits them this week with huge series against Moscow (3 games) mixed with a few back to backs with Toronto, Helsinki, London, Prague all coming to town. If they can avoid splitting these series and win the majority of them out right, they could climb back into first in the conference. The biggest game of the week might be the first game against Calgary, as it might actually determine the final standing of the week. Five players over a point per game led by the retiring group of Todd Cooke @KRZY (36G(t-2nd League) – 39A – 75pts(5th League)); Jon Webber Jr @Webberj(23G – 42A(t-10th League) – 65Pts) and Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher(20G – 37A – 57pts). Other two player above a point per game are Larry Abass Jr @RileyL(21G – 38A -59pts) and Sunglasses Joyo @JetsGoalie101(26G – 32A – 58pts). Which all has Los Angeles as top five offensive team. While retiring Art Vandelay @Gustav remains a top five goaltender with 2.17GA(5th), 0.929sav%(3rd) and 4 Shut-outs(t-2nd). Again not hard to see why the Stars are one of the best teams in the North American conference. 3. This is the area that everything can and most likely will go off the rails since D.C. Dragons have a tough schedule with very important series against Toronto Legion(3 games) and Calgary Wranglers(2 games). If they can split these series and not lose them outright then I think they should stay in Third but should they lose both series I expect Toronto will jump them in the standings. It feels like a treading water week for the Dragons but we will see if they decide to fly instead!! High flying offense is led by The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath (24G – 56A(1st League) – 80pts(2nd League)); Vincent Laroche-Gagnier @vincentlg2007(30G(10th League) – 36A – 66pts) and the retiring Jason @Jason kranz(34G(5th league) – 32A – 66pts). Defensively the Dragons are led by Mark Calaway @Beketov(17G – 44A(6th league) – 61pts(1st defense)). 4. Toronto Legion have a chance to at least close the gap to D.C. Dragons by the end of the week with a four game series against Vancouver Wolves; which they should win easily; two game series against LA Stars and three game series against D.C. Dragons. If they can win the games that they are supposed to and beat win the D.C. series; they might pull themselves out of the wildcard round by the end of the week. Toronto only has two players at a point per game with the team led in scoring by Jimi Jaks @ke1vi(26G – 28A – 54pts) and the other is defender Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer(9G – 44A(7th league) – 53pts(8th defense)), which really shows one of the team weakness; Goal scoring as they have the fifth worse goals for in the league tied with Seattle (junior cubs) Bears. Goals against are right in the middle of the pack, which would be a big reason the team is playing around five hundred hockey for most of the season. 5. For some reason it looks like I cannot give up hope that the Americans will actually play good hockey and make the play-offs. I would actually be scared of this team if they do make the play-offs since they have been very inconsistent week in and week out. New York had a tough one last week going 2-11-1; likely the worse weekly record of all teams all season. So what do they need to get back into the play-off hunt? Yup, an easy schedule; which New York should have this week with a four-game set against the Seattle Bears but mix in a few tough games against Moscow, D.C. and Prague meaning the team hopefully plays around five hundred and maybe better if they can tread water against three teams just mentioned. It is a make-or-break week for New York either you win and you are in or you lose and the season is done. Not a single player is over a point per game with FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist @STZ(24G – 25A – 49pts) leading the team offense. 36W @rory(2.07GA(1st), 0.934sav%(2nd) & 2SO(8th)) remains impressive in net and should have done enough to keep the net after the team traded for Veteran Clueless Wallob @DMaximus (3.35GA, 0.888sav% & 0SO); who continues to struggle. 6. Feels wrong to move this team backwards down the standing after the strong week that they just had and bashed the team last week saying that they would miss the play-offs. Fast forward a week and Chicago Phoenix have a tough task with series against Malmo(4 games) and Calgary(3 games); not to mention Moscow and Helsinki (2 games); it could be a very tough week if they cannot split so of these series. Chicago could easily be given a death blow here with 4-10-0 record if not worse if they aren`t careful. Luckily for them even if they are given the kiss of death this week; they should be within a point or two of New York entering the final week for last play-off spot. So, this week is about damage limitation for Chicago and keeping the play-off hopes alive. Yaroslav Trunov @qripll(36G(t-2nd league) – 43A(8th league) – 79pts(3rd league)) will need to continue to led the way offensively for the Phoenix. Chicago will need a bit more from Rookies Joshua Schwarzer @Velevra(20G – 22A -42pts(4th Rookies)) and Lionel Collberg @Masu Chan( 6G – 32A – 38pts(5th Rookies)); if the team is going to make the play-offs; which is a bit unfair to ask. 7. Nothing to look forward too? Not true the end of the season is a week and a half away so most in Vancouver will start to see where they standing the final rankings. Why? Draft lottery odds as Vancouver is locked in a battle with HC Davos; not for Championship this time; to improve their odds by finishing second worst team in the standings. Seattle has locked up the best odds. Let also not forget the great season that Liv Slater @Subject056(28G – 30A - 58pts) might not get a ton of credit for as they lead all defender in goals, lead the league in power play goals and second in total shots blocked. Hopefully the award committee at least throws her a bone if not an award or two at the end of the season. Rookie Dalkr Vidarsson @KaleebtheMighty(3.15GA, 0.921sav% & 4 S0(t-3rd)) has been very stead in the crease for the Wolves. While offensively Nick Sansoe @Tipskid97(16G – 45A – 61pts) has been over a point per game player most of the season. These three players will be thankful of the help that should come next season. 8. Locked into last as Seattle are ten points behind Vancouver and HC Davos so one would assume that they are set for a rebound next season, well, not so fast with a high draft pick helping to improve an already young team with Severus Targaryen @Banackock(28G – 37A -65pts) leading the way with Gustav Mattias @Berocka(9G -7A – 16pts) and Toby Kadachi @ROOKIE745(15G – 15A -30pts) making up a solid core at forward. Adding to this core will help but won`t completely turn the team around in a single season. Having two more picks in what looks like deep S94 draft will go a long way to aiding the rebuilding process. Seattle also needs to find a solution in net; which is likely Giorgiy Costanzov @Mongoose87 and build around Simons Worst Nightmare @zepheter on the blueline. Will they take a step next season? Only time will tell!! Current Standings: Standings Record Points Last Wk Prediction Last Wk 1. Malmo Nighthawks 37-10-5 79pts (10-2-2) 1st European Conference 2. Moscow Menace 35-13-4 74pts (13-0-1) 2nd European Conference 3. Helsinki Titans 29-17-6 64pts (10-3-1) 3rd European Conference 4. Prague Phantoms 29-18-5 63pts (8-3-3) 4th European Conference 5. London United 27-16-8 62pts (8-5-1) 5th European Conference 6. Warsaw Predators 24-24-4 52pts (10-3-2) 7th European Conference 7. Riga Reign 21-26-4 46pts (4-10-1) 6th European Conference 8. HC Davos Dynamo 17-30-5 39pts (5-7-2) 8th European Conference Reason: Missed the fact that Warsaw had a very easy schedule last week as they beat up on teams near the bottom of the standings; Riga twice, Seattle four times, Vancouver and Davos. Add in a few surprise wins against Los Angeles and New York and you have a standing that is a bit bloated and looks more impressive than it really is. Otherwise, It was a near perfect week in the European conference for this writer. Next Weeks Predictions: 1. Mixed bag schedule with a series against Moscow(2 games) and visit from the top two teams in the North American conference means the Hawks will have some tough hockey to play entering the play-offs. I have the Hawks staying above five hundred and actually closer to 0.700 so should have no problem holding the lead of the European conference. Viktor Jensen @Advantage(26G – 40A – 66pts) continues to fly like a Hawk leading the offense as the Hawks have five players over a point per game. Other being Yaroslav Bogatyrev @Bojovnik(24G – 35A – 59pts) and Ronald Johnson MacWallace III (23G – 31A – 55pts). While the team is lead defensively by Jacob Stone @scoop(16G – 43A(9th league) – 59pts(t-2nd defense)) and Reese McFleury @Spaz(14G – 41A – 55pts(7th defense)). Ash Sparks @DarkSpyro(2.31GA(5th), 0.926sav%(6th) & 5SO(t-1st)) continue to keep the Hawks defense in the top 3 in the league. 2. Coming of an 13-0-1 week and 16 straight wins means I have nothing bad to say about this time; right!! Moscow has two tough series this week with Malmo(2 games) and Los Angeles(2 games) otherwise they should really cruise this week. Moscow also hold New York chances at making the play-off with a three-game series; which New York must win two of the three. Moscow could catch Malmo but really comes down to the head-to-head series; which I feel they split; leaving Moscow a few points behind at the end of the week. Moscow offense has been completely unstoppable since trading for retiring veteran Dogwood Maple @dogwoodmaple(12G – 14A – 26pts in 14 games with the Menace) led by the duel of Left Alone @okochastar(32G(6th league) – 41A – 73pts(6th league)) and Axle Gunner @Steve(23G – 49A(t-2nd league) – 72pts(7th league)). Rookies in Moscow have been solid from Leif Reingaard @Zetterberg(12G – 39A – 51pts(10th league & 2nd Rookies) and Olober Syko @Spartan (2.69GA(9th), 0.923sav%(9th) & 1SO(t-9th)). It will be interesting to see if the rookies and young team can hold it together under the pressure of play-off hockey. 3. Games in hand and what looks to be a fairly easy schedule down the stretch with toughest games coming from series with Malmo and Los Angeles; two games each. London should win the majority of the games this week as Prague and Helsinki possible take points off each other. This should be enough for London to jump into third with half week remaining. Four players are currently at a point per game pace with Leonard Triller @Triller(26G – 39A – 65pts) leading the way while Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ(25G – 34A – 59pts) and Molly the Cat @JCarson(21G – 37A – 58pts); cat fight over second. Halvar Torbjorn @Rayzor_7(22G – 31A – 53pts) is the third player at a point per game pace. 4. The next two teams are interlocked in the standings, point and in my predictions this week as they face off against each other for a three-game series that will determine who finish 4th and who finish 5th this week. I am a chicken so I have split the series mean status que!! Daryl Dixon @Ricer13(31G(8th League) – 39A – 70pts(9th league)) continue to lead the offense that sits just outside the top 5. While Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito(10G – 49A(t-2nd) – 59pts(t-2nd defense)) continue to be a huge factor in the blueline for the Titans. Rookie Grimgor Ironhide @FrostBeard(30G(t-9th league) – 27A – 57pts(1st Rookies)) continues to be impressive and most likely in any other season would be the front runner for Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy, formerly known as the Bossy Trophy. 5. Prague has a slightly tougher schedule this week with a mix of different opponents from a three-game series against Helsinki, a two-game series against D.C. while also facing three of the top four teams in the league; so, one would think it could be a tough week, right? I don`t see it that way!! If Prague can at least split against Helsinki than the Phantoms should play right around five hundred hockey staying close to Helsinki and London; if not they will fall back but not out of the play-offs. Prague offense runs through two player in John Jameson @Frank(32G(7th League) – 46A(4th League) – 78pts(4th league)) and Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide(34G(4th League) – 37A – 71pts(8th league)). While Moritz Stauffer @GoodLeftUndone(8G – 40A – 48pts) continue to lead the backend. Matt Murdock @Acydburn(2.15GA(2nd), 0.936%(1st) & 3SO(t-6th)) is have a strong second half to the season and has walked himself into conversation for a few awards at the end of the season. 6. Crazy to think Warsaw went on a heater last week but that was really down a easy schedule so welcome back to reality. Traded away most of the older players and have a rest with a younger core made up of Maxim Anisimov @McLovin(17G – 34A -51pts), Thor Reingaard @N0HBDY(17G -26A – 43pts(3rd Rookies)) and King Kisslinger @Kisslinger(12G – 22A -34pts). Warsaw will need to find a prospect or two to help rebuild the back-end but having Rex Wolffe Gregor @oilmandan(17G – 28A – 45pts) for another two seasons should buy them much needed time. Biggest concern moving forward has to be between the pipes but that could be filled by prospect Pipo Popa @npuBeT. Either way Warsaw should play around five hundred hockey this week as the look forward to the off-season. 7. It could be back and forth between Riga and Warsaw over the next week as the two should match either with similar records. So, I am expecting no movement between these two teams. Riga future at the moment looks a lot brighter with Rookies Red Panda @Lemorse7(2.94GA, 0.915sav% & 0 SO), Mina @Baozi(5G – 18A – 23pts) and Eric White Jr @Mysterious_Fish(12G -24A -36pts(7th Rookies)) adding to an already young core. Not to mention three more top prospect this off-season as they have three first round picks in the S93 draft. 8. Does it matter? Yeah, as mentioned Davos is fighting Vancouver for better lottery odds to improve their chances of getting a better pick during the S93 draft. So, it might surprise you that I have them playing just under five hundred hockey and should jump a head of the Vancouver Wolves in the overall standings. Yeah!! I am mean no!! If this is the case it hurts their odds but should provide some interest in the race for last. Catchy name would have been better but yeah!! Not even sure who is on the team any more other than David Jokinen @Ahma and Lachlan Summers @kirbithan. Davos rebuild really starts this off season in the S93 Draft with three first round picks and should continue through the S94 draft where Davos hopes to be a huge factor the drafts floor holding multiple picks. That it for the first week review and next week’s predictions. As always tell me below in the comment section how poor my predictions are and I will make sure to read them. Either way until next week Keep the sticks on the ice and your heads up!!
    15 points
  39. Have you ever asked yourself which VHLM franchise provides the best pathway to becoming a VHL GM? No? Well I did, a while ago in fact, but let the potential article idea sit there through Rara Rasputin's career and my recent second semi-hiatus. Now it is time to answer the eternal question however. How does one quantify such a broad subject? A successful VHLM GM is not necessarily one who spends a season with their team and uses it as a springboard to a VHL career. Getting appointed in charge of a VHL team does not necessarily reflect VHLM GM success either. Furthermore, not every VHL GM tenure lasts long and/or goes well so are those GMs really a good reflection on their VHLM franchise? Finally, given our long and storied history, there are more than a handful of GMs who have managed in the VHLM on multiple occasions, often both before and after their (frequently multiple) VHL stints. How do we handle those? And these days, how do we handle time spent in the VHLE as well? You'll be pleased to learn that I didn't bother tackling most of these quite complex questions. What I have produced instead is effectively a statistical analysis and ranking of VHLM franchises through the years based on the future employments of their GMs. I don't think it is necessarily a best-to-worst VHLM team list or even a best-to-worst GM list, but rather a fun way to look at the long and disorganised history of the M. Whilst this introduction has made it all look quite chaotic, there have been a few basic principles I followed in putting the ranking together: All VHLM franchises ever to exist have been included, meaning 17 teams in total, including those which haven't been around for nearly 50 seasons If a team has had the same GM multiple times, they are counted as 1 GM, with an exception or two which is explained separately For the five franchises which existed both before and after the start of the “modern” VHL (I used as a cut-off the expansion to Halifax in S62 as most of the other expansion teams followed shortly after), some consideration has been given both to their performance before and after that date This is mostly about VHLM GMs who subsequently worked their way up to the VHL but some teams have had good representation from experienced heads who did their stints in the big leagues and then came (back) down later on so that's been incorporated as well The VHLE has been ignored entirely in keeping with public opinion Without further ado then, let's count down the best franchises for an aspiring VHL GM, probably. 17. Vasteras IK J20 / Moscow Red Wolves (defunct S51) Total GMs: 17 Future VHL GMs: 2 (Jochen Walser, Tyler Edgar) Former VHL GMs: 2 (Frank Chadwick, Sterling Labatte) At the bottom of the list is a franchise that always seems to be at the bottom of VHL lists. There is not much left to be said about Vasteras that hasn't been said before, other than that by association it seems to have cursed both Moscow and the Red Wolves (the former having won 1 of 6 Continental Cup finals as the Menace, the latter being contracted in the VHLE in its Istanbul incarnation). As for the purposes of this article, the most relevant piece is Tyler Edgar being the J20's longest-serving GM, finally getting his cup in S27, and then having a successful spell in Toronto in the 30s – but the franchise has not much of a lasting legacy otherwise. 16. Miami Marauders Total GMs: 6 Future VHL GMs: 1 (Kris Rice) Former VHL GMs: 1 (Zack Gagnon) The VHLM's youngest franchise is next on the list which surprised me slightly, given its early success. But most of that came under the two names above, with Rice then going onto a very successful time as Calgary GM. As for Gagnon, Miami was his last gig before getting the Los Angeles job, but that was neither his first VHL role nor his last appearance in this article. 15. Las Vegas Aces (formerly Toledo Scorpions and Bern Royals) Total GMs: 34 Future VHL GMs: 8 (Matt Defosse, Zach Arce, Sam Helberg, Chad Murphy, Conner Low, Sachimo Zoidberg, Julian Borwinn, Euron Leonidas) Former VHL GMs: 6 (Zack Gagnon, Tyler Barabash, Vince Wong, Sterling Labatte, Robbie Zimmers, Ron Dayne III) Since S62, 11 GMs of whom 2 were future VHL GMs (Borwinn and Leonidas) As you'd expect for a team that's been in the VHLM since the start (although in a wide range of locations), it's been a turbulent history for the Aces. There will be those that have fond memories of the franchise and those that think it's a forgettable one. In truth, recent history punishes Vegas a bit – unfortunate that its most successful modern era GM (Anthony Pratt) disappeared before getting a VHL job most expected him to get. Other than Borwinn and Leonidas who went onto long-term careers with Helsinki and Moscow, there's a lot of recent names which fizzled out way too quickly. 14. Mississauga Hounds Total GMs: 9 Future VHL GMs: 2 (Jerry Garcia, Cole Pearce) Former VHL GMs: 1 (Dominic Gobeil) The team founded by the Gus/Berocka tandem has seemed to attract GMs who are happy staying at the VHLM level – lots of current actives but other than Garcia's stint in Davos, only Warsaw's Cole Pearce represents the Hounds in the VHL. However, after finally breaking the Founder's Cup duck in S90, maybe fortunes will be changing for Mississauga going forward. 13. Houston Bulls Total GMs: 8 Future VHL GMs: 2 (John Frostbeard, Nils Godlander) Former VHL GMs: 2 (Zach Arce, Vince Wong) Similar proportion of VHL GMs to the Hounds with one difference – Houston's alumni have both won championships with Frostbeard's Malmo in S75 and Godlander's Toronto most recently in S91. Four different GMs have won the VHLM Top GM trophy while at Houston, so the Bulls are clearly doing things right at the minors level anyway. 12. Philadelphia Reapers Total GMs: 7 Future VHL GMs: 2 (Victor Grachev, Alex Johnston) Former VHL GMs: 0 Ranking higher than its fellow expansion franchises purely based on percentages, Philadelphia has had lots of VHLM success and provided the current Davos and Malmo GMs, with Alex in particular finally turning around the Dynamo's years of despair. A theme in this article now will be that I have increasingly little new insightful information to say about each franchise beyond the information already provided at the top. 11. Minnesota Storm (formerly Gothenburg Eagles, Oslo Screaming Seamen, and Oslo Storm) Total GMs: 33 Future VHL GMs: 8 (Vladimir Kliment, Damien Walec, Zack Gagnon, Mitch Higgins, Thomas Corcoran, Thomas Landry, William Shaw) Former VHL GMs: 7 (Brett Slobodzian, Joey Kendrick, Greg Harbinson, Jason Glasser, Tyler Barabash, Jim Gow, Matthew Boragina) Since S62, 4 GMs of whom 1 was a future VHL GM (Funk), before moving to the VHLE and back to Oslo in S81 If you thought Las Vegas' history was tumultuous, spare a thought for the fans of the Storm. Three cities, two leagues, and screaming seamen, but also an impressive list of former GMs. Oslo peaked probably from S24 to S30 during the streak of Gagnon, Higgins, and Corcoran managing the team immediately before taking over Riga, Helsinki, and Vasteras respectively, although Higgins had by far the most success. There's been some dry spells followed by the Oslo reincarnation doing very well in the E, and overall the team's done good enough for midtable. 10. Minot Gladiators (briefly Syracuse Wolfpack) (defunct S42) Total GMs: 15 Future VHL GMs: 4 (Matt Bentz, Chad Murphy, Jardy Bunclewirth, Tyler Edgar) Former VHL GMs: 2 (Greg Harbinson, Zack Gagnon) A blast from the past franchise brings a blast from the past in terms of VHL GMs too. Other than the ever-present Gagnon, none of the men listed has managed a VHL team since the 50s at the latest but several will be recognisable to the average reader. Minot did well when it was affiliated with Calgary, including producing two future Wranglers GMs and in the eyes of many did not deserve its contraction, although its name lives on in Rome today. 9. Saskatoon Wild (formerly Fresno Bulls and Buffalo Jr Bears) Total GMs: 33 Future VHL GMs: 7 (Greg Harbinson, Jack Reilly, Jack Sixten, Spencer Flammer, Rylan Peace, Roger McWolf III, Thomas Landry) Former VHL GMs: 5 (Brett Noiles, James Assayag, Brett Slobodzian, Thomas Corcoran, Vladamir Komarov) Since S62, 10 GMs of whom 3 were future VHL GMs (Peace, McWolf, Landry) A storied franchise, still adding to its impressive list of championships to this day, has also predictably churned through a fair few GMs, most famously the namesake of the VHLM's Top GM trophy, Jack Reilly. The Wild fall surprisingly low on the list, in part due to the lack of huge success either side of Reilly, but also few GMs making the leap in the modern, post-S62 era. I sadly have nothing insightful to say about San Diego, Turku, and Brampton so am skipping my commentary straight to the top 5. 8. San Diego Marlins Total GMs: 7 Future VHL GMs: 2 (Thadius Sales, Jacob Carson) Former VHL GMs: 3 (Zack Gagnon, Frank Chadwick, Zach Arce) 7. Turku Outlaws (formerly Jonkoping Warriors, Kolari Wolves and Kolari Panthers) (defunct S42) Total GMs: 18 Future VHL GMs: 6 (Matt Bailey, Tyler Edgar, Chris Miller, Pavel Koradek, Zack Gagnon, Clinton Chevy) Former VHL GMs: 0 6. Brampton Battalion / Blades (defunct S53) Total GMs: 22 Future VHL GMs: 7 (Scotty Campbell, Tyler Owens, Tyler Barabash, Bryan Svec, Ryan Power, Steve Smeall, Conner Low) Former VHL GMs: 3 (Jochen Walser, Joey Kendrick, Matthew Boragina) 5. Yukon Rush Total GMs: 22 Future VHL GMs: 5 (Austin Gow, Daniel Anderson, Josh Da Silva, Jordan Tonn, Dominic Gobeil) Former VHL GMs: 3 (Sam Helberg, Victor Alfredsson, Conner Low) Since S62, 5 GMs of whom 3 were future VHL GMs (Da Silva, Tonn, Gobeil), before moving to the VHLE and Geneva in S81 It's no surprise there was uproar when Yukon was the franchise stolen by the VHLE (Minnesota was less of an issue given Oslo was its home before) and moved to Geneva where it had a short and unsuccessful life. Up to that point, Yukon was a hugely successful and popular franchise, producing multiple future VHL GMs from the 40s through to the 80s at an impressive rate given the Rush were only founded in S31. Alas, they are no more, just like their fellow S31 expansion brothers below. 4. Bratislava Watchmen (defunct S53) Total GMs: 8 Future VHL GMs: 3 (Vince Wong, Blake Campbell, Benjamin Zeptenbergs) Former VHL GMs: 1 (Sachimo Zoidberg) Ah Bratislava, back now in the VHLE, but never likely to reach the heights it climbed in its short 23-season spell in the VHLM. 7 cups, 8 GMs, of whom 3 are managing in the VHL today – Vince Wong in his third stint, Campbell and Zeptenbergs meanwhile in their roles pretty much since the Watchmen went extinct the first time, the longest VHL tenures ever, by a distance. A model VHLM franchise so no surprise to see it high on the list. 3. Mexico City Kings Total GMs: 9 Future VHL GMs: 4 (Nyko Nax, Christopher James, Cole H, Mickey Dickson) Former VHL GMs: 2 (Chris Miller, Christopher James) A modern day Bratislava? The Kings are the first of the three teams rounding out this list which have one thing in common – a GM who did the VHLM stint, went to the VHL, and came back to the same minor-league franchise. In Mexico City's case that is Christopher James, who led Malmo to the Continental Cup and is now back with the Kings. With a threepeat winner in Nyko Nax and the current GMs of Chicago and Helsinki, it's a good return on investment so far. 2. Halifax 21st Total GMs: 9 Future VHL GMs: 6 (Shawn Glade, Roger McWolf III, Ted Mosby, Dylan Wallace, Jeffrey Pines, Mickey Dickson) Former VHL GMs: 1 (Shawn Glade) Shawn Glade is Halifax's returning GM, with bonus points for being the first GM of the franchise as well, although his VHL stint was not quite as successful. Glade did open the door to a host of VHL GM hopefuls and whilst the 21st hasn't won a championship of their own, 66% of this GMs have graduated to the big leagues – maybe more than a coincidence? 1. Ottawa Ice Dogs / Ottawa Lynx Total GMs: 33 Future VHL GMs: 12 (Tyler Owens, Brandon Best, Sandro Desaulniers, Victor Alfredsson, James Assayag, Jason Glasser, Jim Gow, Keaton Louth, Esso Drunkmann, Acyd Burn, Dakota Lamb, Nils Godlander) Former VHL GMs: 6 (Sam Helberg, Frank Chadwick, Zack Gagnon, Jardy Bunclewirth, Joey Kendrick, Jason Glasser) Since S62, 7 GMs of whom 4 were future VHL GMs (Burn, Lamb, Godlander) And finally, to the surprise of no one probably, the VHLM's most successful franchise, and the only to be in the same city since S2, is top of the list. Percentage-wise, Ottawa is not actually ahead of Bratislava, Mexico City, and Halifax, but that gets overlooked as a lot of the early numbers are noise from the VHLM's affiliate era. Since Jason Glasser took over and gave the team its own identity, it's been a a very steady run of success both for the franchise and its GMs – 10 of the 12 future GMs listed above have won at least one Continental Cup. Glasser of course came back for a second stint, completing the cycle and keeping Ottawa as a model team into the modern era and very much the type of team I had in mind when coming up with this article. @Ricer13 @InstantRockstar @Arce @scoop @Smarch @Spartan @STZ @MubbleFubbles @Gustav @N0HBDY @Dom @FrostBeard @Moon @KaleebtheMighty @Alex @Doomsday @JardyB10 @Ahma @McWolf @thadthrasher @jacobcarson877 @Frank @Toast @eaglesfan036 @Josh @MexicanCow123 @Banackock @hedgehog337 @Nykonax @hylands @badcolethetitan @samx @Advantage @ShawnGlade @fonziGG @Dil @rory @Esso2264 @Acydburn @dlamb
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  40. S89 Calgary Wranglers Jersey Retirement Ceremony Daniel Janser has left his mark as one of the greatest players to ever wear a Calgary uniform. His numbers on the ice during his career speak for themselves: 2nd most career games, 3rd all-time in goals, 4th all-time in assists, 4th all-time in points, and top 5 in hits, shots, and game-winning goals. He collected a closet full of awards during his career which includes, 2 Kevin Brooks Trophies, 2 Brett Slobodzian Trophies, 2 Mike Szatkowksi Trophies, 1 Scott Boulet Trophy, 1 Scotty Campbell Trophy, a Victory Cup, and finally the Continental Cup. Each award was won as a member of the Calgary Wranglers. While his on-ice achievements are one of the greatest all-time in the Victory Hockey League, where Daniel Janser excelled was in the locker room. He joined the Wranglers in S82 and by S83 he was a part of the leadership group in Calgary. He would spend two seasons as an Assistant Captain before moving up to Captain in S85 where he led the team for 5 more seasons. He was a true leader of this team for his entire career and was beloved by every teammate that came through our locker room. He is the true definition of what it means to be a Wrangler and we are grateful to have had the chance to have a player like Daniel Janser in our organization. Congratulations @Daniel Janser, on a sensational career. The number 22 will now be lifted to the rafters and will join the list of Calgary Wrangler greats!
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  41. Graphics by @Zetterberg ❤ Here at VSN, we are used to hearing about prospects from some of the most remote places in the world. From Gibraltar and the Isle of Man to Heard Island and McDonald Islands, future VHL stars arrive from the most remote corners of the globe united by a love of hockey. So, when seven players from the same sparsely populated part of the world join the VHLM around the same time, it raises an eyebrow. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the seven prospects that signed to play in the VHLM through the rest of S89, all of whom come from the island of Greenland and discover what makes this group of future star players special. Before looking at the players, a closer look at the island of which all these players call home is in order to better contextualize how special they really are. Greenland, the world's largest island, is a mostly frozen rock northeast of where most of the VHL action takes place. It is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. The 56,081 residents of the island are primarily concentrated along the southwest coast. Nuuk being the largest and capital of Greenland is a 2,257 km or 1402 mi flight to Halifax, the nearest city with a team in any of the three leagues. It is an isolated and sparsely populated part of the world. Now it's time to meet the seven prospects that call this island home in the order they came into the VHLM. The first future star to present would be Severus Targaryen. Severus, a nineteen-year-old center who is six foot four inches tall and weighing two hundred thirteenth pounds, joined the VHLM around the start of S89. The Dragon, as he is known, signed up with the Houston Bulls and has played like a king. In sixty games this season, The Dragon has thirty-one goals and thirty-seven assist for sixty-eight points, which also includes being tied for second-best, eight game-winning goals. Having recently reached the TPE cap, this pure offensive forward should be among the top players selected in the S90 VHL Draft. The King of Dragons' rule on the VHL is only just beginning. There was another kid from Greenland who would join near the beginning of S89. His name is Axel Gunner and he is a hard man to forget. The six foot six inch and two hundred fifteen pound center, would start a repeating trend in this list and sign up to play with the Philadelphia Reapers. His play for the Reapers has been elite. He is tied for first in points produced while being fourth in both goals and assist. Axel is set to win multiple individual awards, has a good chance at winning the Founder's Cup, and, having already hit the TPE cap, will most likely be close to the top of the S90 VHL draft board. He appears to be the do everything center men with the puck handling skill to slice up any defense that all teams look for. Axel will most likely be a top 3 pick in the coming draft. Later towards the S89 Trade Deadline, three players from Greenland would sign to join VHLM teams. Leading this group would be the duo known as the Reingaard Brothers, Leif and Thor. These brothers are a pair of eighteen-year-olds born on the twenty-first of September that play defense and right-wing/center, respectively. Leif, the older brother, is five foot nine inches tall and weighs one hundred sixty-five pounds. Thor, the younger brother, has a height of six foot two inches and a weight of two hundred and five pounds. The brothers would opt to play together for the defending champions, Philadelphia Reapers. In their first ten VHLM games, Leif had three goals and two assists for five points, and Thor had two goals and one assist for three points. Leif seems set on becoming a top offensive D man while his brother wants to develop into more of a do-everything two-way forward. I find myself hooked on the brothers and hope that they are able to stay together throughout their careers. The next player to follow the Reingaards to the VHLM would be Lionel Collberg. Lionel is an eighteen-year-old defender born July ninth in Nuuk. He has a height of six feet one inch and weighs two hundred and three pounds. Lionel would follow the brothers and join Leif on the Reapers' blue line. So far, the young man has done well, producing seven assists and two goals for nine points. Lionel is set to become a two-way defender leaning more into the defensive side of the game. Lionel seems like a solid defender that can someday strongly lead a defense. The day after the S89 Trade Deadline, two more fine young Greenlanders would be adopted into the VHLM family. The first of these to sign with a team is Theo Allard. Theo is another eighteen-year-old center from Narsaaq. This one is about six foot three inches in height and weighs around one hundred eighty-eight pounds. Theo would do things differently and instead of joining his other Greenland brothers, he would opt to play for the southernmost VHLM team, the Mexico City Kings. It does appear as if Theo has been unsettled by the much warmer weather, as has produced two assists in seven games, but it is far too soon to know for sure. He seems to be developing into a playmaking center with scoring and defense as secondary skills. Of course, Theo is young enough for him to grow differently than what is visible now. If the young man put the hard work in, he will be a brilliant star. A prospect with a famous last name would be the most recent Greenlander of this generation to sign to a VHLM team. The name's Minion, Behrens Minion. He is a sixteen-year-old left winger five foot five inches tall and weighing one hundred forty pounds. He decided to join the Houston Bulls, thus teaming up with Severus Targaryen. He currently only has two assists in six games, but that is nothing to worry about. He has put some solid work into his shot which hopefully will result in goals soon. Being the son of legendary Bratislava Watchmen GM Nathaniel Minion and having Chicago Phoenix star goaltender Alexander Minion as an adopted brother comes with significant expectations that the young man will look to live up to. To have such a run of prospects all coming from the same location on the globe is typically a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. However, this is not the first time a group of future stars emerged together from the frigid rock that is Greenland. Deep in the VSN Scouting Vaults lies the story of one of the most iconic families to ever pick up a hockey stick in the VHL. They were the Reinhart family, and all five members would hail from Greenland. The story would begin when Asher Reinhart signed with the Philadelphia Reapers in S75. Philadelphia would win the Founder's Cup that season and it would be the start of a series of awards for the Reinhart family. The next season, Reylynn Reinhart would sign with the Houston Bulls. She would be best remembered for her S80 performance, winning both the Sterling Labatte Trophy and the Jake Wylde Trophy. S77 would see two Reinharts begin their journeys with Tobias and Tyler Reinhart both joining the Mississauga Hounds. Tobias would win the Orion D H Chiester IX Trophy in S80. Tyler Reinhart couldn't stop picking up trophies. First, he would win a Founder's Cup and Mitch Higgins Trophy in S78 as a member of the Yukon Rush. He would then become a part of one of the greatest dynasties the VHL has ever seen, the S80-82 Vancouver Wolves that won both the Continental Cup and the Victory Cup three years in a row. Tyler would also win the Dustin Funk Trophy and the Kevin Brooks Trophy in S80. Jerome Reinhart, the last member of the Reinhart family to join the VHL, would follow Tyler in many of his successes, both in Yukon and Vancouver. While in Vancouver, Jerome would be awarded with the Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy in S79 and the Daisuke Kanou Trophy in S81. Jerome's award wins in S85 would mark the end of the Reinhart family's legacy. Overall, that is a substantial legacy for the youth of Greenland to live up to. Now that we've introduced Greenland's crop of prospects, you would be wise to remember them. They are already among the leading prospects going into the S90 and S91 VHL Drafts. They are young, eager to prove themselves, and are chasing homegrown legends. It is weird to think such a cold, isolated, and sparsely populated rock can produce so many hockey players. But as scouts are fond of saying, "It doesn't matter where a prospect comes from. If they have a love for hockey, they will always have a home in the VHL." For VHL Scouting, this is Will3 signing off. Every user mentioned in this article
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  42. Do 9 season VHL careers actually work? An analysis of S80-83 draftees With the introduction of the VHLE before Season 80 came a different, possibly even more radical change for history and stat buffs like myself: nine season careers. Now, rather than going straight to the VHL after the draft and playing for eight seasons, the idea was that most players would go to the VHLE for one season then the VHL for their remaining eight, thus necessitating nine season careers post-draft. But there was an interesting wrinkle within the announcement: Some players didn’t ever need to go to the VHLE at all. For those at 350 TPE and above, they had the option of going straight to the VHL and playing a longer career than any player in VHL history had ever had before. In doing so, however, they would be subject to a stricter regression scale that means four seasons of decline, with their peak occurring one season earlier than their counterparts who went to the VHLE for a season. There were some thoughts that this may force the VHL to re-write some record books, or that nine season players would be easier shoo-ins to the Hall of Fame. And there’s some logic behind that argument: It’s only top earning players that would even have the option to skip the VHLE in the first place, so it stands to reason that they would also be the players dominating stats and awards. Luckily though, we now have a pretty good data set of those nine-season players to analyze and try and answer the question: Is it worth it? Anecdotal data seems to be swinging towards no - just look at the lengths Logan Ninefingers and George Richmond took to stay in the VHLE this season. My very own decision on this could be coming in a few weeks, which is why I decided to take a look at the data. By my count (unless I missed somebody, which is completely possible), there have been 12 players from the S80-83 draft classes who went straight to the VHL and have finished their careers. And the general thought is, maybe you’re not getting the full experience that you were promised. What I’m seeing is a lot of Very Good players, but maybe not the ability (or in some cases the drive) to become truly great. (S80) C Matty Ice - Total TPE: 1285 @mattyIceman Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 648 302 420 722 83 3854 548 1259 346 39 51 7 Personal Awards: 1 (S80 RotY) There were only two players to jump directly to the VHL in the first season the option was offered, and unfortunately the first one to be drafted isn’t the best test case. Although Fire would win Rookie of the Year in a truncated class (since much of his competition went to the VHLE), the user behind Fire would receive a temporary ban a bit into his career. As a result, Fire would hit 49 goals in two of his first three seasons, but never top 40 again for the rest of his career en route to a solid, but unspectacular nine season career. (S80) LW Vinny Detroit - Total TPE: 1519 @dasboot Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 646 239 280 519 113 2850 1753 3163 362 39 42 2 Personal Awards: 0 The other S80 player to jump directly to the VHL that first season may not be the best test case either, seeing as how Detroit had one very specific goal: as many hits as possible. In that regard he absolutely accomplished his goal - Detroit’s 3136 hits is far and away the VHL record, more than 200 more than the eight seasons of Druss Deathwalker. From that angle, Detroit can be seen as a nine-season career success, with the extra season (Detroit had 339 hits in S80) allowing him a record he wouldn’t have otherwise been able to hit. (S81) LW Nico Pearce - Total TPE: 2206 @Spartan Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 650 362 412 774 177 4216 769 1785 335 52 82 2 Personal Awards: 2 (S84 MVP, S84 Most Goals) Now we’re getting to some interesting ones. Pearce is the current all-time TPE record holder and exactly the type of player that VHL leadership was thinking of when instituting the nine season idea. He sailed past the VHLE cut-off, was a 59 point contributor to a powerful Moscow team in his very first season, and was even able to hold on to the tougher regression scale to hit 44 goals and 88 points in his final season. But if you think of a career as a bell curve, Pearce’s peak was never quite there. Outside of the S84 season with 59 goals and 120 points, Pearce never topped 100 points and only topped 45 goals one other season (S85). The overall counting stats look good - Pearce’s 362 goals ranked 29th all-time - but the end result is a career in the Hall of Very Good. (S81) D Harkat Mulds - Total TPE: 513 @hylands Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 504 137 238 375 18 1606 243 553 679 16 42 5 Personal Awards: 0 The other S81 draftee to go right to the VHL is also our first one to not actually finish out the nine season career. Mulds would stall out their TPE earning fairly soon after reaching the league, hopping around to four different teams (including Moscow and Prague twice) before retiring after their seventh season. The one thing that is interesting from Mulds is that their highest point total (73) actually occurred in that very first season that other contemporaries spent in the VHLE, on a Toronto team that made the playoffs no less. (S82) LW Vasile Lamb - Total TPE: 1433 @dlamb Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 649 342 379 721 134 3928 1469 2877 366 68 76 5 Personal Awards: 0 Lamb’s career reads as very similar to Pearce’s to me, just with some additional player movement and without that one standout season. The cumulative numbers look nice - 342 goals is 42nd all-time, 68 game winning goals is tied for 17th all-time, and 2877 hits is third all-time. Those totals are something you look for in a nine-season career. But I think the trade-off of never truly being top-tier in TPA did hurt Lamb, both in terms of individual season highs (he topped 40 goals three times) as well as team placement (he’d play for six teams in those nine seasons). Another very good player, but the nine season career is not leading to the Hall of Fame. (S82) G Cole Pearce - Total TPE: 1654 @N0HBDY Season GP W L OTL SV% GAA SO GA SA MP Totals 504 278 182 42 0.922 2.65 33 1333 17110 30162 Personal Awards: 1 (S86 Lowest GAA) We have our first goalie! When I was active with Booberry, I watched Pearce’s career with great interest because he took the path I didn’t take. I thought that the additional season of regression would hurt too much, and especially with all of the competition at the goalie position, it would put me behind the eight ball too much. The final answer to that then is a resounding - maybe? Pearce did indeed only win one individual award, as he was competing with a rash of goalies in the next couple of draft classes who were able to keep pace with him in TPA. However, he also had arguably his best season in his eighth season (49 wins, .929 save percentage) before retiring one season early. Another one for the Hall of Very Good here. (S82) D/RW Tavish DeGroot - Total TPE: 1447 @rory Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 577 197 318 515 115 2305 943 1417 981 30 63 5 Personal Awards: 0 There’s a trend I’m noticing as I’m going through too. Many members are starting to top 1700, 1800 TPE and work their way towards the upper reaches of the TPE leaderboard. But by and large, those aren’t the players skipping the VHLE, which you might expect. That’s why I’m putting final TPE totals by player names, because you’re seeing a lot of very strong totals in the 1300-1700 range, but not necessarily totals that can withstand a fourth season of regression which leads to eight season careers regardless. Anyway, as somebody who has had two players start on defense and switch to winger at the end of their career, it makes interpreting career stats a bit of a mess. DeGroot’s career was solid enough (especially with that S84 Continental Cup), but they wouldn’t top 70 points in a season until the final season playing on the wing in Seattle. (S82) D Max Torq - Total TPE: 1728 @Steve Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 576 166 403 569 97 2169 780 1197 1200 33 81 3 Personal Awards: 0 Comparing apples to apples of defensemen who went nine seasons, Torq had some slightly higher highs than did DeGroot - a point total that stayed consistently between 61-86 between his second and eighth seasons, a 1200 shots blocked total that ranks 37th all-time. And similar to DeGroot he’s got a Continental Cup, with Torq’s coming in Season 83 with Seattle. But in his eight season career (he retired a season early similar to Pearce), there weren’t too many very high peaks. A very valuable player to every team that he was on and occasionally in the awards conversation, but ultimately did not bring home any hardware himself. (S83) C Scotty Sundin - Total TPE: 1263 @fromtheinside Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 648 334 410 744 41 4015 409 814 322 55 69 10 Personal Awards: 2 (S91 MVP, S91 Most Points) Sundin is an interesting one to me because of the dualities. 1263 is one of the lower total TPEs on the list, and he only topped 40 goals three times in his career. And yet - he’s literally the reigning MVP after career highs with 49 goals and 112 points last season, his 334 career goals are top 50 all-time, and he is the first and only person on this list to play the full nine season career with the team that drafted him (Chicago). I think they’re happy with their investment with the first overall pick, even if they didn’t get a cup out of it. Sundin a point in favor of the argument that it’s not necessarily the length of the career, but how you build for it. (S83) G Brandt Fuhr - Total TPE: 1418 @Tate Season GP W L OTL SV% GAA SO GA SA MP Totals 581 290 243 43 0.924 2.77 32 1592 21000 34533 Personal Awards: 3 (S86 Playoff MVP, S87 Top Goalie, S87 Lowest GAA) Another goalie, and this time the first one to go the full nine! And you could very well argue that he has the best career of the dozen players listed here. A stalwart in net for 8.5 seasons in Vancouver, the Wolves would go to the playoffs six times during that stretch, go multiple rounds in four, and win it all in one. By virtue of going 60ish games longer than any other goalie before him, Fuhr also ranks 19th all-time in wins and 47th all-time in shutouts, and still manages to hold on to a tie with the 18th-best save percentage of all-time. As I’m writing I kind of feel like I’m making an HOF case here, and I think it’s right on that line. Maybe you’d like to see a few more individual awards, but those are tougher to come by in a competitive era. The best case scenario for a nine-season career here. (S83) C Igor Molotov - Total TPE: 1483 @Dom Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 576 250 341 591 -10 2925 761 1601 266 39 60 2 Personal Awards: 0 Molotov reads to me as a player who had a ton of potential, especially following a number of awards at the VHLM level, but that the nine season career may have held back. Molotov’s TPA peak ended up being the same as their player peak, with 41 goals and 88 points in their fifth season of S87. But regression came swift, where despite his only Cup coming in S88 with London, Molotov would not top 34 goals while in regression. Molotov’s another who clocked out after eight seasons rather than face the tough fourth season of regression, limiting their career numbers somewhat. (S83) D AirRig GoodBrandSun - Total TPE: 1558 @Rhynex Entertainment Season GP G A P +/- SHT PIM HIT SB GW PPG SHG Totals 648 121 430 551 214 1847 792 1127 1293 23 53 1 Personal Awards: 1 (S83 Top Defensive Defenseman) We end with GoodBrandSun, whose career is interesting in that they’re the only player to win an individual award in the season they were originally supposed to skip - an award that ended up being the only one of their career, as it turns out. GoodBrandSun developed from a more defensive-oriented player at the beginning of their career (198 shots blocked in S83 was by far their highest) to a more offensive-oriented player (93 points in S86) near the peak of their career. I believe GoodBrandSun is also the first one to reach the playoffs nine times in a career, eight with Calgary and one with Seattle, with a Calgary Cup coming in S87. Overall a career I’d call a nine-season success story, even if it didn’t come with necessarily the individual accolades. Verdict for Me: After doing the exercise, I’m leaning towards not trying to go nine seasons in the VHL with Antonia Bucatini. While there are some mitigating factors at play with many of the players who tried it in this sample, there are a lot of flame outs on this board - and depending on Fuhr and Sundin potentially not a Hall of Famer in the bunch. Even those with high TPE totals like Nico Pearce (or later Henry Eagles and The Frenchman) may not be seeing the individual success they hoped for themselves on draft day. But there’s always that temptation to try something that not many others have, so it may end up being a conversation between myself and my future VHL team following the draft.
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  43. This took me way too long, I tried to use a render each member used at one point. Please put that on player pages. Inspired by this reddit post I saw earlier. Pretty interesting that every team has at least one MVP, but I guess it's been almost 20 seasons since the last expansion. TOR/MAL/RIG are the only teams without MVPs in the 16-team era.
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  44. Extra! Extra! Read all about it! You may have noticed that the VHLM is currently hiring for two GM openings, in Houston and San Diego. We'd like to thank everyone for showing their interest and we think we're ready to welcome in our new hires so they have time to work with this offseason. First off, we've seen @AJW in a couple different runs as GM of Houston, so it seems like a natural fit to welcome him back, doesn't it? We'd like to do just that. We hope AJ can make his experience with the Bulls into even more positive experiences for the Bulls of the future! The VHLM is a place for newer members as well, so we've been blessed with a few applicants who haven't yet had the chance to GM. One in particular has stood out to us as someone who's been active around the league up to this point and has ties to the Marlins. Without further ado, we're appointing @Mysterious_Fish GM of San Diego! We're excited to see what can be brought to this franchise. Thanks to everyone who applied for these openings! As always, we're happy that people would like to work with us to make the VHLM a better place. I hope this continues well into the future and that we can make this a great season! @VHLM Commissioner
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  45. Hi everyone! With S90 coming to a close it signals the end of an era in Davos. When I think about it S82 was a very long time ago, and it's been a blast! Since then there has been one player who has been a fixture in the Davos lineup and was my first ever draft pick, a pick that was acquired by trading away the one and only poopy peepants @JardyB10. With that I am pleased to announce the retirement of James Teekirque's @Mongoose87 jersey number! The 12th overall pick in S82, James Teekirque quickly made the Davos roster appearing in their first game the following season. While S83 was a rough one in Davos as the tank was on, Teekirque remained optimistic and embodied what it means to play for Davos! Since then Teekirque went onto have a very strong career as they would finish with 245 goals and 330 assists for a total of 575 points in 576 games! Those totals put Teekirque 5th all-time in Davos scoring, 5th in goals, and 7th in assists! Additionally, Teekirque was unstoppable in the playoffs as they would score 42 goals and 48 assists for exactly 100 points in 92 career playoff games, the most goals in Davos playoff history and the 2nd most points! Teekirque played a vital role in the S89 Continental Cup win and was nominated for the Kanou for his efforts. Lastly, while they didn't always have a letter on their jersey, Teekirque was a vital member of the leadership group in Davos, and their presence on the ice will surely be missed. Thank you for everything!
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  46. S89 Finals and Off-Season Vancouver vs. Davos Finals The Wolves had their second trip to the Continental Cup finals in the last four season. Unfortunately in Season 89 they came up short. Jake Thunder @Thunder won the Daisuke Kanou Trophy as playoff MVP after leading the Dynamo offensively throughout the post season and helping end Davos' long cup drought. Lachlan Summers @kirbithan might have been the sole reason the series didn't reach seven games, absolutely shutting down Vancouver's offense in the final 3 games of their season. Vancouver heavily out shot Davos in those 3 games so we have to tip our hat to Summers and their inspired performance between the pipes. It was a well earned victory for Davos and a long time coming for the franchise. Davos GM @Alex after putting together a strong team season after season finally saw the fruits of his labour in Season 89. On the Vancouver side, things ended disappointingly. The Wolves did see internal growth from their young players and are optimistic about the team's trajectory in future seasons. Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ led the league in playoff scoring in both points and goals. It was truly a coming out party for Kerr and hopefully a sign of things to come for the feisty Czech. After being selected 9th overall in the Season 86 VHL draft Kerr has been playing in the shadow of Dogwood Maple for the start of his career. His showing in the Season 89 playoffs may be a sign that Kerr will over take the grizzled vet Maple as the number one center in Vancouver. A player who has become a fixture on the ice and off the ice in Vancouver, he has really molded himself into a leader within the locker room and on the ice. Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito was playing behind Payne for most of the season but really took off in the second half as he does quite often. Bouchard lead the Wolves in points on the back end during the playoffs and lead the league in assists. He now enters his seasons of harsh depreciation, but has shown that won't slow him down and he has plenty of game left in the tank. After a tough loss in the finals Vancouver would have to make some decisions in the coming weeks. This One Stings Nico Pearce @Spartan became the all-time TPE leader in VHL history during Season 89 and had one wish, to finish his career with a cup. Something that alluded him throughout his career. During Season 86 Vancouver traded Pearce for Preobrazhensky and went on to win the cup. In season 89 Vancouver fell to Davos in six games. A dejected Pearce looked on after the final buzzer of game 6 in Vancouver as fans began chanting his name out of respect for an all-time great. Off-Season Moves After the loss to Davos, Vancouver management decided the attempt at maximizing TPA over player depth was what likely cost them against a deep Davos team in the playoffs. The Season 84 Warsaw Predators are the only team in the hybrid era to win with 3 defensemen. Despite the hybrid era only having a small sample size of seven seasons, six of those seasons the champion sported a complete roster of 11 players including their goalie. Thus the decision was made to free up cap space and allow the team to maximize their roster flexibility. Unfortunately Vancouver would move long time player and former 1st overall pick Henry Eagles @Greg_Di, to the dismay and anger of many fans. After a strong showing in the Season 89 playoffs for Eagles and a player with a lot of game left in him and many seasons yet to be played. "Difficult decisions need to be made in the a cap world, unfortunately moving Eagles was the best scenario for Vancouver to re-coup assets and cap space. I really didn't want to move Eagles but he garnered a lot of interest around the league and Malmo made us an offer that we couldn't pass up. Henry has been a consummate professional throughout his time in Vancouver and we wish him the best in Malmo. We also want to thank him for his contributions on and off the ice, helping Vancouver capture a Continental Cup in Season 86. He will be dearly missed in the locker room as well." - GM Frank Chadwick. During the off-season Vancouver would look to maximize players on their rookie contracts and players in their final season to get full value for players with their TPA. Signings Brian Payne - D S90: $6,000,000 (NTC) After being acquired by Vancouver in the Season 88 Off-Season. Payne @Scurvy has solidified Vancouver's blue line alongside Bouchard and it will be a group to be feared in Season 90. Payne has been a fixture in Vancouver's locker room and players are rallying around him, saying win it for Payne in his final season. This being his final season means he no longer has to bank and can maximize his TPA. FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist - RW S91: $1,500,000 (NTC) S92: $1,500,000 (NTC) S93: $1,500,000 (NTC) S94: $1,500,000 (NTC) S95: $1,500,000 (NTC) Option: Player Analfist was selected 2nd overall in Season 88 by Vancouver who traded a haul of picks to Helsinki to acquire the 2nd pick. @STZ has a long relationship with Vancouver GM Frank and locking him up was top priority for the team going into the Season 89 Off-Season. Analfist enters his third season still on his rookie contract with the hopes of breaking out and becoming the face of the Wolves franchise going forward. The team is betting on the player and the player is betting on the franchise. Vancouver fans were thrilled to see the young winger locked up long term and jersey sales have spiked since the announcement. Trades To Vancouver : Girts Galvins - LW @Girts To Warsaw : S92 Van 2nd Galvins is a player Vancouver has long coveted and with Warsaw entering their rebuild Vancouver couldn't pass up the price paid. Girts has been a top line scorer throughout his career and is now re-united with Payne for one last run at the cup. At the time of writing this Galvins has had a slow start to the season but Vancouver management and fans aren't worried. The work ethic has been there and we all know the skill will take over. To Vancouver : Hockley Mann - LW @Sen Clark - G @cl4rk S92 Mal 1st S91 Sea 2nd S90 Mal 3rd To Malmo : Henry Eagles - RW @Greg_Di This was probably the most difficult trade GM Frank had to make right in line with moving @Lemorse7 to New York after their cup win. Which likely extended Vancouver window beyond their Season 89 finals appearance. As I mentioned earlier Eagles was fixture in Vancouver and will be dearly missed much like Leduc was. In the trade the Wolves brought in Mann who is entering his final season but has shown a great enthusiasm for doing everything he can to go out on top. Mann has been the saving grace of the Eagles trade and has taken some sting away from losing Eagles. From Vancouver's perspective they replace Eagles with a cheaper winger to help complete a full roster and acquire a much needed goaltending prospect in Clark who could be the dark horse in this trade. The picks are currency to a team in Vancouver's position. To Vancouver : Sigma Freud - D @CODENAMEJIMMY To Moscow: S92 Van 3rd Another important move to complete a full roster for Vancouver. Freud enters his rookie season thus he'll carry the cheapest cap hit in the league at 1.5M while having over 400 TPA. Freud is a valuable piece for a Vancouver team looking to contend. The addition of both Slater and Freud at a combined 3.5M will allow Vancouver to run a formidable defense corps. To Vancouver : Liv Slater - D @Subject056 S92 Chi 2nd To Chicago : Reinhard von Kongming - D @Kylrad S91 Van 1st S92 Mal 1st S90 Mal 3rd The true blockbuster of the off-season as two 1st round picks are moved for one player. Vancouver paid a high price to acquire one of the top young defenders in the league. With a retiring Payne and an aging Bouchard. Acquiring Slater for futures was a no brainer for the Wolves. Slater provides increased value this season since they're still on their rookie contract and are earning at maximum capacity. The player value wasn't the only important aspect of this trade. @Subject056 is also a great member who has a good rapport with Vancouver's GM. The young core in Vancouver is growing stronger with Wann Kerr, $nubbed Analfist, Oreo McFleury and now Liv Slater. All that's missing is a replacement for Fuhr in the coming seasons. Season 90 Preview and Outlook Depth Chart Forwards: Girts Galvins - Dogwood Maple - $nubbed Analfist Hockley Mann - Wann Kerr - Oreo McFleury Defense: Pierre Emile Bouchard - Liv Slater Brian Payne - Sigma Freud Goaltending: Brandt Fuhr Break-Out Candidates Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ - We have to start off by mentioning the Wolves Funk nominee and leading playoff scorer as our top break out candidate for Season 90. Kerr proved a lot of doubters wrong in Season 89 and will look to do even greater things in Season 90. $nubbed Analfist @STZ - After a flaming hot start in Season 89, Analfist plateaued a bit and while finishing with more points than his rookie season has still higher expectations for himself and the team in Season 90. Oreo McFleury @JB123 - McFleury was a little bit more consistent than Analfist in Season 89 but still finished around the same mark as him points wise. He's another player looking to break out and pass the point per game barrier in his third season. With the Eagles trade and departure of Pearce there will be plenty of opportunity for both Analfist and Oreo to show off their offensive flare. Liv Slater @Subject056 - Playing behind both Bouchard and Payne might make it difficult for Slater to have a break out season. Season 91 might be the season Slater rocks the VHL world. Learning from both Bouchard and Payne this season will do wonders for the youngster. Swang Song for Three This is it for Payne @Scurvy, Galvins @Girts and Mann @Sen. All three enter their final seasons with the hope of finish out on top. "All three players are extremely motivated in closing out their careers as champions, they've been training hard all off-season and are hoping the strides they made will bare fruit this season. I can't speak enough about the character of each one of these players and the impact they have on their teammates." GM Frank stated. Girts Galvins and Hockley Mann will look to add to their trophy case while Payne hopes to cement himself in the HOF. Wolves Legends and Future HOFers? Brandt Fuhr @Tate - After capturing both the all-time regular season wins and playoff wins as a Wolf last season he looks to continue his legacy this season. Will father time finally catch up with Fuhr after a few seasons of depreciation? Or will having one of the strongest bluelines in front of him help him carry the load. Pierre Emile Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito - The current Captain of the Wolves proved his worth yet again last season. Leading the league in defensemen playoff scoring and cracking the top 10 in all-time points among Wolves player. What will he do for an encore this season? Message to the Fans "After a disappointing end to Season 89, we won't be satisfied with anything less than a championship in Season 90. We've made changes this off-season that we hope pay off on the ice this season and in future seasons. Though we saw the departure of a fan favourite we want to assure the fans that the team is not re-tooling and is one hundred percent committed to bringing more championships to Vancouver and it's great fans." 1988 words
    14 points
  47. I'm switching up the style of how I've done these recap/grading pieces in the past. I used to just grade the first round, but I'm going to grade on a team by team basis this season so that I can look at a team's moves and picks as a whole and shout out more folks who were selected this draft. I will also try and keep it brief (edit, I failed), with less emphasis on formatting and making it look pretty. Also as a disclaimer, I'm usually pretty pessimistic vs being optimistic. So if you want to feel better about your grades, bump it up a sign I guess. Like B+ to A-, or C- to C. Take it with a grain of salt though I'm just writing some shit for fun. I'm not an expert, clearly. Nothing here is personal. North American Conference Calgary Wranglers - @Ricer13 The Wranglers entered the offseason seemingly looking to unload a couple roster players to both shed cap and open up space for some of their imminent call-ups, but ended up jettisoning their entire roster entirely. What was initially meant to be a slight reshuffling turned into a fairly all-encompassing overhaul. Despite the NA looking weak, CGY decided to simply go with their youth across the board. In the draft, CGY traded up from 8th to 6th, giving up a second rounder to select Raimo Tuominen @SlapshotWrangler, a winger from the Houston Bulls. Tuominen will be expected to slot into a top line role, and the offensively minded Finnish player should slide into the role well pending some development. Outside of Tuominen, Calgary's next picks weren't until the 3rd and 4th round where Pierre Ennis @DeciBell4, Destroyer @slangdestroyer and Josh goat @Josh is cool will be longshots to make the roster. Deciding to rebuild but only having 1 pick in the first 2 rounds of a draft class of this caliber is a little concerning though, and might indicate a longer term path to contending unless Calgary decides to buy players in a season in the near future. Grade: B- Chicago Phoenix - @badcolethetitan Chicago's predicament entering this offseason may be one of the worst ever involving GM transitions. New GM @badcolethetitan was left with minimal roster pieces outside recently drafted defenseman Liv Slater @Subject056 who was soon shipped off to Vancouver prior to the draft for two 1st round picks. Assets otherwise were quite limited, with just their own first round pick in S90 with no other picks until the third round. With their first though, Chicago took Ryan Artyomov @Enorama, kicking off a brutal rebuild with a must-have franchise cornerstone in net. The Phoenix will hope to build around Artyomov in future drafts, but the process will certainly be slow and arduous. With their remaining depth picks, the Phoenix selected Amir Redzic @Slav_Sloth and Henri Dahl @Henri Dahl who will both take a few seasons to get to the VHL, and Owen Williams @Iknoweverythingaboutsports who might have a longer and more difficult path to reach the VHL without more consistency. There's really not much Chicago could have done differently, outside leveraging 3rd overall to acquire a larger package of picks in the S90/S91 drafts. Grade: B+ D.C. Dragons - @FrostBeard The Dragons appear to be speeding up their rebuild and putting their foot on the proverbial pedal this season. The team seems comfortable with Bubbles Utonium @fishy in net and a stout defense corps that has been built over the course of a couple seasons now. Metric-befuddling Ryuji Sakamoto @der meister was brought in to provide additional defensive capabilities along with a veteran voice in the group, while forwards Vince Laroche-Gagnier @vincentlg2007 and Jason @Jason kranz were brought in via trade to provide an instant spark to an otherwise middling forward group. D.C. traded away 4th overall after seemingly missing out on their top target in Ryan Artyomov, opting to have faith in their team. For the future, Eric White Jr @Mysterious_Fish and Eno Velvson @Nykonax were brought int, with both expecting to be VHL-ready within 1-2 seasons. Later in the draft, projects Trey Daniels @Tdan04, Jean-Marc Lemieux @Gorth, Vladimir Kozlov @vladbatton and Donny dickems @Bakerk19 were added, all of whom appear to be longshots to make the VHL roster. Oscar Thurn @neksli was selected in the late 4th, but appears to have foregone hopes of a VHL career. While D.C. made solid grabs in the 2nd round, it's questionable if they really should have rushed into contending in the NA conference despite few other teams seeming to make that push. But with Vancouver, Seattle and Toronto looming large over the conference, D.C. may have been served better by simply taking the best player available at 4oa and letting the rebuilding process play out patiently - with the hopes of acquiring a true franchise goalie in S91 or via trade. Their season will largely be graded as to how they perform with a late career goalie in net with no replacement on the horizon. Grade: B- Los Angeles Stars - @InstantRockstar Simply put, the Stars are stuck in the mud. The Stars made one selection in the third round of the S90 draft, selecting Kodie Curran @Battlepopcorn who projects to take at least 3-4 seasons before being VHL ready. However, they went out and paid a massive price for young defenseman Elias Lampi @Pifferfish who the Seattle Bears appeared to be ready to move on from for cap purposes. Just one week out from the season, the Stars seem to be stuck between making a serious push to compete with the top teams, and kicking off a rebuild with the remaining stars that can fetch decent value on the team. With the timing of other selling teams such as Calgary and Moscow, most contenders are essentially ready for the regular season. LA's season will largely hinge on being able to maintain a playoff spot through the season and hoping that midseason trades for players on underperforming teams will result in a potential playoff run. Grade: C- New York Americans - @thadthrasher New York might be a bit more of a headscratcher than the LA Stars. While the Stars boast some competent stars to compete this season to some degree, New York....simply let their key FAs walk away elsewhere. Both Babay Shrimp @Blazzer and Geoff Bezos @Quik surprisingly tested FA, and Shrimp even signed elsewhere promptly. Now with no goalie left on their roster, New York simply has no direction. Veterans Napoleon Dynamite @thadthrasher and Svatopluk Pul @Otaznik may be able to carry an otherwise young offense, but rookie Tord Yvel @Trazan is all alone on defense. With 13th overall courtesy of a surprisingly pleasant playoff run in S89, New York was gifted Xiver Zilla @jhatty8 whom most expected to be a top 6 or 7 selection in the draft. Zilla will likely be able to form a solid 1C/2C duo with Jasper Davis @Josh in the long run, but will likely play on a wing until Dynamite leaves the organization. New York also selected goalie WW...etc. @rory, which will be interesting to see play out as the agency has been generally disgruntled by the organization in the past, especially after how the Americans hostaged Travish DeGroot from LA back in the early 80's. If WW is happy with New York and extends beyond their ELC, it'll be a solid selection. Otherwise the Americans may only have lucked into Zilla and will have to hope that late round selections Stinky @taylorherd and Alexei Shirokov @Alexei can find their way onto the main roster. With no future for their defense and goaltending uncertainty, it's been a nightmare of an offseason for the S89 postseason darlings. Grade: F Seattle Bears - @Banackock The Bears have continued to operate in their typical offseason manner of fielding offers on all players to see what the market has interest in, then trading away mid-career players for assets while spending a portion of those assets on later stage career players to replace them. This off-season saw Elias Lampi @Pifferfish and Daniel Weaver @ThePerfectNut heading out of town to be replaced by Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg and AirRig GoodBrandSun @Rhynex Entertainment. Star goalie Clueless Wallob @DMaximus was also acquired from the rebuilding Moscow Menace after a panic trade for pending UFA G Karl Pedersen @JeffD. In the draft, Seattle sat pat and selected center Severus Targaryen @Banackock who has close ties to team management and Simons Worst Nightmare in the second round, who projects to be a pure defensive defenseman with a 2 season window to make the VHL roster. In the third, Seattle selected Jaja Dingdong Jr @Jaja Dingdong who may shape up into a depth defenseman over a few seasons, along with Factor Lee who also shows potential if he can remain consistent over the next few seasons. Jakub Izacky was selected in the 4th and the agency has a history of fluttering out in the VHL, but maybe Seattle's management can develop the player well enough to get him to the pro roster. As of now, Seattle still hasn't completed their roster with $3 million in cap space, so another move or two will be expected. Grade: A- Toronto Legion - @Moon I made a joke the other day that if I had a penny for every time Toronto traded a large pick package for veteran Moscow superstars, I'd have two pennies. It's not a lot, but it is amusing that it's occurred twice. GM @Moon seems prepared to flip the switch on this Legion squad, and aggressively pursued superstars Ronan Lavelle @Arce and Tomas Sogaard @Brandon from Moscow and paid a high price of a 1st + two 2nds. The duo will join stars Mac Atlas @v.2 and FA signing Siyan Yasilievich @badcolethetitan with the hopes that this will be the season for a deep playoff run in Toronto. With 2nd overall, Toronto chose to stay in that slot instead of trading down, and selected defenseman Walter Fitzroy Jr, a player whose agency is very close with the GM. A bit of a puzzling move since most draft pundits expected that Fitzroy would be available a bit later in the first, and rumors swirled that other teams were offering hefty packages to trade up for the top three pick. Later in the draft, Toronto selected Harjen Van Araken @VaderTheTater who is still very raw, but may still be able to make the VHL given some guidance and development. This season will largely be graded off of their results - with Lavelle and Yasilievich both planning to retire this season, the window is open for just this one season pending future moves. Will the assets given up be too much for a one season prayer? Grade: B Vancouver Wolves - @Frank GM Frank Chadwick @Frank has never been afraid to be aggressive, and it's probably one of my favorite traits of his. He was aggressive early in the offseason, acquiring Girts Galvins' @Girts rights from Warsaw for a late future 2nd, and then fixed their cap woes by sending Henry Eagles @Greg_Di to the Malmo Nighthawks for a hefty package involving S92 MAL 1st. After a few days of fiddling around with cheap defensemen, Vancouver did the near impossible and convinced Chicago to trade away their sole promising roster player in Liv Slater @Subject056 for two firsts (including the one received in the Eagles trade). While initially the price seemed steep, Vancouver essentially traded a fraction of the Eagles return along with their own 91 1st (likely bottom 4) for a very young defenseman with a lot of potential who fits within their cap situation. In an ideal world, Slater will replace Pierre Emile Bouchard as he faces retirement in the near future. VAN made no selections in the S90 draft, and have limited capital in the future. Goaltender Brandt Fuhr is getting long in the tooth and the team only has S89 goalie Clark as a prospect. Will he be able to replace Fuhr within 2 seasons? Grade: A- European Conference HC Davos Dynamo - @Alex The Dynamo are fresh off a Continental Cup win, which means they realistically could go back to being a dumpster fire with no criticism. The price to compete is your future assets, and Davos simply had no picks in the S90 draft. However, Davos went out in search of some cheap depth to fill out their forward core with Halvar Torbjorn @Rayzor_7, DB III @wcats and Vasile Lamb @dlamb. The defense is still their strongest point with Jake Thunder @Thunder and Skor McFleury @Alex and star netminder Lachlan Summers @kirbithan, but it remains to be seen if their forward group is strong enough to win games with just depth and no high-end individuals. Grade: B+ Helsinki Titans - @samx The Titans are under new management for the first time in eons, with former AGM @samx now selected to lead the team into the future. The team had a stroke of luck to begin the new GM's tenure, as HSK won the 1st overall selection via the S90 draft lottery. YaBoi Oven @Doomsday was the consensus top selection, and he'll soon make his debut to join Kronchy Kardashian as stalwarts on the blue line. With Fuukka Rask @Jubis in his prime, Helsinki went out and bought Landon Wolanin @jacobcarson877 from the rebuilding Wranglers, presumably to try and make a push this season while they still have some players on ELCs. The future is still bright however, as Helsinki managed to add talented forwards Bruise Banner @ctots and Alexandre Crosby @hockeyis66 at the end of the 1st round and beginning of the 2nd, along with defenseman Tommy Sleeves @dasboot. They rounded off their draft with Barry McOckiner @LanerDUST and Gremlis Lielais @Anomalijs who will take at least 3+ seasons to make the VHL. Overall though, HSK has some hope for both the present in the future through a deep pick pool in the next two drafts and solid prospects on the way. Whether HSK was truly ready to compete this season remains to be seen. Grade: A- London United - @jacobcarson877 Rumblings around the league were that the recently dethroned VHL Champions, the London United, would enter a rebuild of sorts after star defenseman Siyan Yasilievich was heading into FA. However, London proceeded to do the opposite, instead acquiring Deron Nesbitt @AW13 from Moscow along with FA defenseman Jack Jeckler @Uncommon. The United made just one draft pick in S90, selecting Shinoa Hiiragi @shinoa in the 4th round who likely will never join the VHL. It's an interesting offseason for the United who simply didn't have assets to work with as a contending team, but they seem to be content with their roster featuring stars Molly the Cat @JCarson and The Board Game Clue on Skates @MubbleFubbles. Although the team was completely anemic offensively last season, maybe a new season and some development will allow the United offense to break out and surge beyond the wild card round. However, the definition of insanity is to do the same thing over and over, expecting different results. Acquiring Nesbitt to replace Siyan simply may not be enough to make a meaningful difference. Grade: C+ Malmo Nighthawks - @KaleebtheMighty Malmo had an interesting draft night. At 6oa, the team delayed for quite a while, taking up nearly their entire time allotment before a trade was made with Calgary to trade down from 6 to 8, netting a 2nd rounder along the way. Once at 8, the team traded down again with Moscow, picking up a 3rd rounder to drop from 8 to 9. At 9, they finally selected Jebediah Big Ol Doinks in Amish @hylands whose agency the organization is very familiar with. After the agency struggled to develop players in the past, the hope is that Jebediah will snap out of that funk and be able to step in to a large role on the Nighthawks' defense. However, their defense might be the strongest part of their team, with youngsters Jacob Stone @scoop and Reese McFleury @Spaz already showing promise alongside the veterans in the group who are also just in the middle of their careers. Prospect Big B @Bigb33 also appears on the cusp of making their pro roster, making the selection of yet another defenseman in the S90 1st round a bit confusing. Fortunately for Malmo, they were aggressive in acquiring Daniel Weaver @ThePerfectNut and Henry Eagles @Greg_Di to jumpstart their contending phase, but the organization now has no picks left for the next 2 seasons. There'll be a lot of pressure on the skaters in Malmo to make the moves worth it, as Ash Sparks still has a lot to prove despite a strong first season as full-time starter. It's a large gamble for Malmo, but fortunately they have the prospect pool to maintain their competitive window for a while - it'll all depend on if they can manage their cap and roster slots as well. Grade: B- Moscow Menace - @Spartan The Menace made the questionable decision this off-season to completely gut their team into pieces, shipping away nearly every single quality veteran on their team despite being able to retain all of their core pieces. From a Victory Cup and a playoff appearance to a full rebuild seems questionable, but GM Euron Leonidas @Spartan seems confident in the youth on the team and happy with the return they received for all of their pieces. After a flurry of trades, some even during the draft, Moscow ended up with picks 4, 8, 12 and 21 where Axle Gunner @Steve and Jarmo Ruutu @jRuutu were selected to be the future center duo of the Menace. Defensemen Obuz Schneider Canet du Bocage @Grape and Didier Verhault @FTK were also selected with the hopes of stepping up to replace the retiring Hammar Voss @BOOM and the depleted defense corps. While the Menace seem set at forwards for the future and have some defensemen in place, the big question mark remains their plans in net for the future, with only veteran goalie Sam Tombstone in the organization. Grade: A Prague Phantoms - @Acydburn To me, Prague's had a pretty quiet offseason. Not much news has circulated from their organization, and their only trade was for young defenseman Admir Bala @Tyler from Davos. In the draft, the Phantoms doubled down on defense, selecting Conference Prince-de-Galles @UnkemptCL4PTP, adding a pure defensive defenseman to the organization historically known for building teams around defense. With defensemen Faith Hope love @MMFLEX and Velociraptor Greg @samx beginning to regress, it makes sense to bring in some young defensemen. However, with multiple aged forwards, and a bit of an uninspiring prospect pool, Prague selected controversial center Aurora Skylight @Bedirhan in the 2nd round. While the young center is talented, questions arise around character and the ability to remain focused on hockey and developing skills. Later in the second, Prague also added Liam Oinas @ojje who will take a few seasons to reach the VHL, and longer term projects in Stefan Nikolaev @Is_thatok and Yves Lafleur @Habs fan. Prague is sporting an identical look to their roster last season, but the hopes will be that their playoff run will be much deeper. Grade: B- Riga Reign - @hedgehog337 For a competitive team, Riga had a surprising number of picks in the first two rounds with 5 total, including 7th and 10th overall. In the first round, Riga selected forwards Catia Goncalves @cLoWn and Martin Kemp @leafsman who will likely take a season or two to join one of the best up and coming forward cores in the league. However, that forward group is already in their prime, with some veterans already on the cusp of regressing. Defensively, both Brian Kowalski and James Marino seem to be prepared to play 30+ minutes every game, but with their age, their effectiveness may wane. Despite the shallow defense depth in both their pro roster and prospect pool, Riga selected three more forwards in the second round in Afonya Romanov @DontCallMeCarson, Sebastian Thunder @Matt thunder and Oden Bell @WhiskyJack. Jussi Jokinenegg @HearnNation67 was selected in the third round, also a forward. The only defensemen drafted was Kenneth Heymann @Kenny in the 4th round, who looks to have already quit the sport of hockey entirely. While Riga might have the best forward group in the league right now, their defensive depth or lack thereof will certainly sink them barring a miracle. With 3 million in cap, there's room to find a defenseman now or wait until the trade deadline for retained salary. But it looks to be a struggle for the organization who neglected positions of need to go for the best players available during the draft. Grade: C Warsaw Predators - @N0HBDY God, I've written so much and I want to be done. Warsaw fucking stinks, just like Chicago. The sole bright spots might be Tim Riggins @Jayhawk and recently acquired defenseman Tater Tottingham @Trunkxolotl, who realistically should be traded to a contender for more assets than the 2nd Warsaw paid to save Toronto from cap trouble. In the S90 draft though, Warsaw selected great value in the first round, adding Maxim Anisimov @McLovin and King Kisslinger @Kisslinger to begin rebuilding the forward group. Jorji Costova @Hybrid1486, Joseph Jec @Joseph Jec, Jigglejawns @.sniffuM, Joseph Dubois @Dubois, Andrew Cobberson @BrandyAndy, Michael Ovechskin @penguinb19 and Joe Blow @ES29 will have to be heavily developed by the organization if they're to make a significant impact for the team in the future. Fortunately Warsaw owns their own 1st round picks for the future, and have a decent stockpile of 2nd round picks. It remains to be seen if those 2nds will provide any value in these shallow classes however. Grade: B+ 3,604 words
    14 points
  48. The simming team for S89 is: VHL: @MexicanCow123 VHLM: @Beketov VHLE: @Josh Backup: @N0HBDY Obviously this does mean that Devise has been removed as a member of the simming team. There’s nothing personal here, we just felt it was time for him to step back from the role. N0H has graciously agreed to sign on as the backup for this season and will be involved in the usual rotation starting next season. @VHL GM @VHLM GM @VHLE GM
    14 points
  49. nurx

    Farewell

    During the last season or so I have begun to dislike logging onto the forum itself. It feels like a job that I am forced to do compared to the fun thing it once was. I no longer enjoy the league but have grown to dread having to be available. I also am going through a major shift as the warmer months begin and I will no longer be available as much as I once was. Therefore, I will be stepping down as GM of the Miami Marauders effective at the end of Miami's season. I hope that the replacement for the team would be kind enough to keep me on the team as I do continue to want to be part of the team, but realistically if I continue as I have I will burn out and never want to log into the forum again. Thank you. @Spartan @Gustav
    14 points
  50. Today I will be looking at a breakout candidate from every single team in the VHL. A player from S85 or earlier on every team who has the potential to step up into a higher role and prove themselves as established players. Spoiler alert, there are some teams that had only one option under the criteria, even if the player has already sort of broken out or is not in a prime position to break out. Anyway, if you are on one of these teams and thought your player was in a better position to break out, I apologize as this is fully my opinion. I did try to name some honorable mentions when applicable. Without further ado, let’s get into it. Calgary Wranglers Vincent Laroche-Gagnier @vincentlg2007 (S86) VLG had a slightly different path to the VHL than some others. He spent two full seasons in the VHLM before jumping straight to the VHL. Obviously the competition in the M is the lowest of any of the three leagues, and a sharp learning curve was to be expected for VLG. His rookie season was decent, with 14 goals and 30 points total. However this season I’m expecting a breakout year of at least 55 points, and at a ceiling pushing point per game. Something that would help his point total would be splitting up the 2 elite centers Calgary has in Goncalves and Janser, and putting VLG on one of their lines. On a strong Calgary team, he should be able to get some minutes with top players to help boost point totals. Chicago Phoenix Alexander Minion @UnknownMinion (S85) Minion never really got a chance early in their career. In their first season they were a backup in Los Angeles. However looking at the stats, Minion has some real talent. In 10 games, they went 4-4. Not anything spectacular, except a save percentage of 0.929 and GAA of 2.91. Not top numbers among backups, however on a team like Chicago, who can definitely make some waves, Minion should have an opportunity to have a good first season as a starter. DC Dragons Lucas Grey @emidas (S86) Can Mark Calaway break into the VHL yet? This season has pain written all over it. The team is aging, with only one player on the team S86 or younger. It’s a year for rebuilding and getting more draft capital, and with almost no young players, there’s not really many opportunities for breakout seasons. If I had to choose, Lucas Grey is the single S86 player, so maybe they can break out into a bigger role this year. HC Davos Dynamo Lachlan Summers @kirbithan (S86) Another established contender, another backup turned starter. Summers put up some very good numbers in the games, and she was undefeated in regulation. With Jake Thunder holding down the back end, and the high powered offense, Summers should have a great opportunity to become a certified starter in the league. Helsinki Titans Daryl Dixon @Ricer13 (S86) After a very solid rookie season, Dixon looks to improve this year on a team that is in transition. With veterans Nils Godlander and Matty Fire on his line, he should be able to break out into stardom. Dixon will be a key piece to the future of the Titans, and this season should prove that. I’m expecting a point per game year for Dixon, and if the Titans end up pushing for a playoff spot, he will be the reason why. London United Leonard Triller @Triller (S86) This rookie already looks poised for a great freshman campaign. He exploded for 89 points in 72 VHLE games last season, and was stellar for Team Canada in the World Juniors. Triller will also have one of Igor Molotov or Ivan Retoslav as his centers, both players being proven talents in the league. Triller has shown some great offensive talent, and has some great grit in his game that will make him a tough player to come up against. On a London team that looks to be pushing for a playoff run, Triller should be able to find his step and have a great rookie year. Los Angeles Stars Sunglasses Joyo @JetsGoalie101 (S85) The center is really the only player on the Stars who hasn’t broken out yet. Joyo is stuck behind three other centers on the depth chart, but that means they will most likely get a chance to play on the wing of an established center in the league. As the only player who has yet to break out on the Stars, I’m not sure how good Joyo could be, but a solid 38 point year last year makes me think anything 55 points plus can be counted as a win. Malmo Nighthawks Yaroslav Trunov @qripll (S87) The first S87 player on this list, Trunov had an underwhelming rookie season, but the 6th overall pick definitely has a ton of talent to show off. Coming into the VHL after just one year in the minors became more of a transition season than just a few games. However this year, on a Malmo team that is retooling, Trunov should find himself getting great ice time. This should be a great season for the young winger. Moscow Menace Left Alone @okochastar (S86) Moscow is similar to DC in the way that there really aren’t any players primed for a breakout. However the similarities stop there. Moscow is a contender with strong players all over the roster. So like LA, there’s only really one player left who can break out at this point in their career. Left Alone is a winger who definitely has potential, but after a struggle of a first year in Seattle, they were traded to Moscow hoping for a new start. I think Alone should be able to put up better numbers, though how big the break out could be or if it really happens at all is yet to be seen. New York Americans Babay Shrimp @Blazzer (S85) After a few seasons in the VHLM and VHLE, Shrimp had a pretty respectable rookie year last year, putting up 17 goals and 41 points. I’m expecting her to leap forward in production this year and hit at least the 60 point mark on a New York team with quite a bit of firepower. Prague Phantoms Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide (S85) Some would argue Kauppi has already broken out. I would agree with you. However on a team with no players left to break out, I circle back to Kauppi, who had a great 54 point effort in his rookie season. Now heading into his sophomore year with two elite centers down the middle, I’m expecting Kauppi to have a fantastic year, probably getting close to point per game and being a great piece of depth for this Phantoms team. Riga Reign Skor McFleury @Alex (S87) Riga has a team full of great young players already. Those of the likes of Daniel Weaver, Sadie St. Louis, and The Frenchman. However those three have already established themselves early into their careers. Honestly McFleury has as well, with a fantastic 42 point rookie season as a defenseman. But I think McFleury will hit the point per game mark at some point in his career, and this season will probably be a big step in that direction. Seattle Bears Yaroslav Bogatyrev @Bojovnik (S86) Funnily enough, the second Yaroslav on this list. While Randy Bobandy is a prime candidate as well, he has arguably broken out more than Bogatyrev. So this season gives Bogatyrev a great opportunity to take advantage of the depth on the Seattle roster and really bump up the point totals. I have him as my most improved player in my predictions, and I think he’ll break 70 points at least. Toronto Legion Jimi Jaks @kelvi (S87) With an honorable mention to fellow S87 draftee Mac Atlas, though Atlas has already had a solid rookie season for the Legion so I believe he is already broken out and will just continue to grow this season. Jaks is coming into the league after putting up fantastic numbers in the VHLM and VHLE, so I’m expecting nothing different in the VHL. Vancouver Wolves Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ (S86) It’s difficult not to look at Vancouver and pick Oreo McFleury or FISTED ANALLY BY A CIRCUS MONKEY Analfist, however I believe these two talented wingers will be big pieces contributing to Kerr’s breakout season. Kerr had a solid rookie year; 44 points in 72 games is nothing to scoff at. However I believe with McFleury and Analfist on his wings, Kerr will have the offensive help to put up some great numbers as the 2nd line center for a contender in Vancouver. Warsaw Predators Tim Riggins @Jayhawk (S87)* Riggins is coming into the VHL pretty early in their development, hoping to make a splash on a Warsaw roster that is very solid and just looking for some depth. Riggins decided to play two VHLM seasons and skip the VHLE, so there could be some worry for inexperience against tougher competition. However Riggins will have some experienced VHL players on their line, so hopefully that will balance it out. Time will tell if Riggins was rushed to the VHL or not, and if a VHLE season would have been beneficial or not. Good luck this season, let’s see if any of these predictions come true! *I'm pretty sure Riggins is playing in the VHL this year, but if in any case I'm wrong, whoops. For Weeks of: 4/9, 4/16, 4/23
    14 points
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