Grape

The new TPE system has been implemented for a handful of seasons now, and I feel that a fair amount of people have a solid grasp on it. For those who don’t, then this may be for you
 
STHS Ratios
Every stat has a ratio attached to it that impacts an aspect of your game. These ratios are different for each stat and being knowledgeable of them will help you maximize your TPE allocation. Let’s focus on scoring for this. 
As you can see, there are 3 stats that affect scoring: Offensive Vision, Slap Shot, and Wrist Shot. The numbers correlate to the stat boost for each TPE level you put into the stat, so every level you have in offensive vision will add 0.3 to your scoring. 
 
Levels and TPE
If TPE levels were linear, then getting to the max level would be super easy; however, it’s a gradual process. 
 

 
Based on the scale, it costs:
- 70 TPE for 0 - 70
- 10 TPE for 70 - 75
- 15 TPE for 75 - 80
- 50 TPE for 80 - 90
- 40 TPE for 90 - 95
- 40 TPE for 95 - 99
225 TPE to max 1 stat
 
And while the cost of TPE increases for each level, the ratios stay the same.
 
Ratio Scaling
Due to the increasing cost of levels and the stagnant ratios, dedicating all TPE to one stat in a category is worse than spreading it out

 
Let’s say you’re a VHLM player that wants to max out their scoring stat (limited to 200 TPE). What one might do is put all their TPE into offensive vision, having them hit level 96 and Scoring would be at 68.8. The alternative method is to spread out the TPE across all scoring stats, and put 80 TPE into offensive vision (Level 75), 70 TPE into Slap Shot (Level 70), and 50 TPE into Wrist Shot (Level 50), which would cause scoring to be at 76.9, about 8 better than putting everything into one stat. When you’re focusing on boosting stats, make sure NOT to max a single stat without first adding to other stats in the same categories
 
Full Scale
Breakdown of all categories and subsequent stats that add into them. Keep in mind there are some categories that are pretty much useless. Categories you can pretty much ignore are Discipline, Leadership, Penalty Shot (it’ll be boosted when you increase your scoring anyways), Faceoffs (unless you’re a center), checking somewhat, and fighting (unless you’re a goon). Important stats to focus on are Puck Handling (gotta hold onto the puck), Defense (helps with positioning), skating (speed), passing and/or scoring (gotta get points somehow), and strength (keep balance better).

 
Best Allocation for the VHLM
Since this is mainly geared towards newer players, I’d also like to provide my subjective view on a super good build for the M that can also be used as a starting template for the upper leagues. With 200 TPE max, I would allocate:
- 60 TPE into Stick Handling (Boosts both Puck Handling and Skating)
- 50 TPE into Poke Checking (Boosts both Defense and Strength)
- 20 TPE into Speed (Boosts only Skating)
- 70 TPE into Offensive Vision (Boosts both Passing and Scoring)
 
This allocation will result in a stat line of:

Which is more than good enough to compete as a top player in the VHLM. Extremely balanced and still allows a lot of room to focus on really anything you want to in the future leagues.

The new TPE system has been implemented for a handful of seasons now, and I feel that a fair amount of people have a solid grasp on it. For those who don’t, then this may be for you
 
STHS Ratios
Every stat has a ratio attached to it that impacts an aspect of your game. These ratios are different for each stat and being knowledgeable of them will help you maximize your TPE allocation. Let’s focus on scoring for this. 
As you can see, there are 3 stats that affect scoring: Offensive Vision, Slap Shot, and Wrist Shot. The numbers correlate to the stat boost for each TPE level you put into the stat, so every level you have in offensive vision will add 0.3 to your scoring. 
 
Levels and TPE
If TPE levels were linear, then getting to the max level would be super easy; however, it’s a gradual process. 
 

 
Based on the scale, it costs:
- 70 TPE for 0 - 70
- 10 TPE for 70 - 75
- 15 TPE for 75 - 80
- 50 TPE for 80 - 90
- 40 TPE for 90 - 95
- 40 TPE for 95 - 99
225 TPE to max 1 stat
 
And while the cost of TPE increases for each level, the ratios stay the same.
 
Ratio Scaling
Due to the increasing cost of levels and the stagnant ratios, dedicating all TPE to one stat in a category is worse than spreading it out

 
Let’s say you’re a VHLM player that wants to max out their scoring stat (limited to 200 TPE). What one might do is put all their TPE into offensive vision, having them hit level 96 and Scoring would be at 68.8. The alternative method is to spread out the TPE across all scoring stats, and put 80 TPE into offensive vision (Level 75), 70 TPE into Slap Shot (Level 70), and 50 TPE into Wrist Shot (Level 50), which would cause scoring to be at 76.9, about 8 better than putting everything into one stat. When you’re focusing on boosting stats, make sure NOT to max a single stat without first adding to other stats in the same categories
 
Full Scale
Breakdown of all categories and subsequent stats that add into them. Keep in mind there are some categories that are pretty much useless. Categories you can pretty much ignore are Discipline, Leadership, Penalty Shot (it’ll be boosted when you increase your scoring anyways), Faceoffs (unless you’re a center), checking somewhat, and fighting (unless you’re a goon). Important stats to focus on are Puck Handling (gotta hold onto the puck), Defense (helps with positioning), skating (speed), passing and/or scoring (gotta get points somehow), and strength (keep balance better).

 
Best Allocation for the VHLM
Since this is mainly geared towards newer players, I’d also like to provide my subjective view on a super good build for the M that can also be used as a starting template for the upper leagues. With 200 TPE max, I would allocate:
- 60 TPE into Stick Handling (Boosts both Puck Handling and Skating)
- 50 TPE into Poke Checking (Boosts both Defense and Strength)
- 20 TPE into Speed (Boosts only Skating)
- 70 TPE into Offensive Vision (Boosts both Passing and Scoring)
 
This allocation will result in a stat line of:

Which is more than good enough to compete as a top player in the VHLM. Extremely balanced and still allows a lot of room to focus on really anything you want to in the future leagues.

The new TPE system has been implemented for a handful of seasons now, and I feel that a fair amount of people have a solid grasp on it. For those who don’t, then this may be for you
 
STHS Ratios
Every stat has a ratio attached to it that impacts an aspect of your game. These ratios are different for each stat and being knowledgeable of them will help you maximize your TPE allocation. Let’s focus on scoring for this. 
As you can see, there are 3 stats that affect scoring: Offensive Vision, Slap Shot, and Wrist Shot. The numbers correlate to the stat boost for each TPE level you put into the stat, so every level you have in offensive vision will add 0.3 to your scoring. 
 
Levels and TPE
If TPE levels were linear, then getting to the max level would be super easy; however, it’s a gradual process. 
 

 
Based on the scale, it costs:
- 70 TPE for 0 - 70
- 10 TPE for 70 - 75
- 15 TPE for 75 - 80
- 50 TPE for 80 - 90
- 40 TPE for 90 - 95
- 40 TPE for 95 - 99
225 TPE to max 1 stat
 
And while the cost of TPE increases for each level, the ratios stay the same.
 
Ratio Scaling
Due to the increasing cost of levels and the stagnant ratios, dedicating all TPE to one stat in a category is worse than spreading it out

 
Let’s say you’re a VHLM player that wants to max out their scoring stat (limited to 200 TPE). What one might do is put all their TPE into offensive vision, having them hit level 96 and Scoring would be at 68.8. The alternative method is to spread out the TPE across all scoring stats, and put 80 TPE into offensive vision (Level 75), 70 TPE into Slap Shot (Level 70), and 50 TPE into Wrist Shot (Level 50), which would cause scoring to be at 76.9, about 8 better than putting everything into one stat. When you’re focusing on boosting stats, make sure NOT to max a single stat without first adding to other stats in the same categories
 
Full Scale
Breakdown of all categories and subsequent stats that add into them. Keep in mind there are some categories that are pretty much useless. Categories you can pretty much ignore are Discipline, Leadership, Penalty Shot (it’ll be boosted when you increase your scoring anyways), Faceoffs (unless you’re a center), checking somewhat, and fighting (unless you’re a goon). Important stats to focus on are Puck Handling (gotta hold onto the puck), Defense (helps with positioning), skating (speed), passing and/or scoring (gotta get points somehow), and strength (keep balance better).

 
Best Allocation for the VHLM
Since this is mainly geared towards newer players, I’d also like to provide my subjective view on a super good build for the M that can also be used as a starting template for the upper leagues. With 200 TPE max, I would allocate:
- 60 TPE into Stick Handling (Boosts both Puck Handling and Skating)
- 50 TPE into Poke Checking (Boosts both Defense and Strength)
- 20 TPE into Speed (Boosts only Skating)
- 70 TPE into Offensive Vision (Boosts both Passing and Scoring)
 
This allocation will result in a stat line of:

Which is more than good enough to compete as a top player in the VHLM. Extremely balanced and still allows a lot of room to focus on really anything you want to in the future leagues.

The new TPE system has been implemented for a handful of seasons now, and I feel that a fair amount of people have a solid grasp on it. For those who don’t, then this may be for you
 
STHS Ratios
Every stat has a ratio attached to it that impacts an aspect of your game. These ratios are different for each stat and being knowledgeable of them will help you maximize your TPE allocation. Let’s focus on scoring for this. 
As you can see, there are 3 stats that affect scoring: Offensive Vision, Slap Shot, and Wrist Shot. The numbers correlate to the stat boost for each TPE level you put into the stat, so every level you have in offensive vision will add 0.3 to your scoring. 
 
Levels and TPE
If TPE levels were linear, then getting to the max level would be super easy; however, it’s a gradual process. 
 

 
Based on the scale, it costs:
- 70 TPE for 0 - 70
- 10 TPE for 70 - 75
- 15 TPE for 75 - 80
- 50 TPE for 80 - 90
- 40 TPE for 90 - 95
- 40 TPE for 95 - 99
225 TPE to max 1 stat
 
And while the cost of TPE increases for each level, the ratios stay the same.
 
Ratio Scaling
Due to the increasing cost of levels and the stagnant ratios, dedicating all TPE to one stat in a category is worse than spreading it out

 
Let’s say you’re a VHLM player that wants to max out their scoring stat (limited to 200 TPE). What one might do is put all their TPE into offensive vision, having them hit level 96 and Scoring would be at 68.8. The alternative method is to spread out the TPE across all scoring stats, and put 80 TPE into offensive vision (Level 75), 70 TPE into Slap Shot (Level 70), and 50 TPE into Wrist Shot (Level 50), which would cause scoring to be at 76.9, about 8 better than putting everything into one stat. When you’re focusing on boosting stats, make sure NOT to max a single stat without first adding to other stats in the same categories
 
Full Scale
Breakdown of all categories and subsequent stats that add into them. Keep in mind there are some categories that are pretty much useless. Categories you can pretty much ignore are Discipline, Leadership, Penalty Shot (it’ll be boosted when you increase your scoring anyways), Faceoffs (unless you’re a center), checking somewhat, and fighting (unless you’re a goon). Important stats to focus on are Puck Handling (gotta hold onto the puck), Defense (helps with positioning), skating (speed), passing and/or scoring (gotta get points somehow), and strength (keep balance better).

 
Best Allocation for the VHLM
Since this is mainly geared towards newer players, I’d also like to provide my subjective view on a super good build for the M that can also be used as a starting template for the upper leagues. With 200 TPE max, I would allocate:
- 60 TPE into Stick Handling (Boosts both Puck Handling and Skating)
- 50 TPE into Poke Checking (Boosts both Defense and Strength)
- 20 TPE into Speed (Boosts only Skating)
- 70 TPE into Offensive Vision (Boosts both Passing and Scoring)
 
This allocation will result in a stat line of:

Which is more than good enough to compete as a top player in the VHLM. Extremely balanced and still allows a lot of room to focus on really anything you want to in the future leagues.

The new TPE system has been implemented for a handful of seasons now, and I feel that a fair amount of people have a solid grasp on it. For those who don’t, then this may be for you
 
STHS Ratios
Every stat has a ratio attached to it that impacts an aspect of your game. These ratios are different for each stat and being knowledgeable of them will help you maximize your TPE allocation. Let’s focus on scoring for this. 
As you can see, there are 3 stats that affect scoring: Offensive Vision, Slap Shot, and Wrist Shot. The numbers correlate to the stat boost for each TPE level you put into the stat, so every level you have in offensive vision will add 0.3 to your scoring. 
 
Levels and TPE
If TPE levels were linear, then getting to the max level would be super easy; however, it’s a gradual process. 
 

 
Based on the scale, it costs:
- 70 TPE for 0 - 70
- 10 TPE for 70 - 75
- 15 TPE for 75 - 80
- 50 TPE for 80 - 90
- 40 TPE for 90 - 95
- 40 TPE for 95 - 99
225 TPE to max 1 stat
 
And while the cost of TPE increases for each level, the ratios stay the same.
 
Ratio Scaling
Due to the increasing cost of levels and the stagnant ratios, dedicating all TPE to one stat in a category is worse than spreading it out

 
Let’s say you’re a VHLM player that wants to max out their scoring stat (limited to 200 TPE). What one might do is put all their TPE into offensive vision, having them hit level 96 and Scoring would be at 68.8. The alternative method is to spread out the TPE across all scoring stats, and put 80 TPE into offensive vision (Level 75), 70 TPE into Slap Shot (Level 70), and 50 TPE into Wrist Shot (Level 50), which would cause scoring to be at 76.9, about 8 better than putting everything into one stat. When you’re focusing on boosting stats, make sure NOT to max a single stat without first adding to other stats in the same categories
 
Full Scale
Breakdown of all categories and subsequent stats that add into them. Keep in mind there are some categories that are pretty much useless. Categories you can pretty much ignore are Discipline, Leadership, Penalty Shot (it’ll be boosted when you increase your scoring anyways), Faceoffs (unless you’re a center), checking somewhat, and fighting (unless you’re a goon). Important stats to focus on are Puck Handling (gotta hold onto the puck), Defense (helps with positioning), skating (speed), passing and/or scoring (gotta get points somehow), and strength (keep balance better).

 
Best Allocation for the VHLM
Since this is mainly geared towards newer players, I’d also like to provide my subjective view on a super good build for the M that can also be used as a starting template for the upper leagues. With 200 TPE max, I would allocate:
- 60 TPE into Stick Handling (Boosts both Puck Handling and Skating)
- 50 TPE into Poke Checking (Boosts both Defense and Strength)
- 20 TPE into Speed (Boosts only Skating)
- 70 TPE into Offensive Vision (Boosts both Passing and Scoring)
 
This allocation will result in a stat line of:

Which is more than good enough to compete as a top player in the VHLM. Extremely balanced and still allows a lot of room to focus on really anything you want to in the future leagues.

I'll apply

Only the best and most elite quarter of the league though

Applying

Applying

Applying for both

We spoke earlier about the draft, and spoke about it's successes, and after the draft completed, the roster still had to make some final changes to be considered 'complete' also. The first big step was signing the rookies that LA intended to have play up, and then of course just fill out the roster as best they could. This season, is going to be the season of rookies as Cameron Elsby @Spence King makes the jump to the pro league after officially signing an extension with the club, as well as Art Vandelay @Gustav (1st OA pick) and Callum Murray @Berocka (3rd OA Pick). Returning teammates included Finn Davis @M1nT, Nic McMuffin @Ente2997, DB III @wcats, Deagun Rust @Spade18 and Barron Kruulenstein @LefLop. As also mentioned in our previous article, James Glove Dropper @Jamomayo joined the team and now... Bob Vladovechsenkchushkin @Grape has filled out the roster. 
 
6 Forwards, 4 Defenders & 1 Goalie... this team looks like a dream. While they may be underdogs and may look less fierce than some of the other rosters, the LA Stars do plan to make a push this season & especially next season as they look to continue to grow together. 

1. Basically just show them around the city and get dinner with them. Make them accustomed to the area and feel like a part of the team.
2. I have an underwater bunker at the bottom of Lake Mälaren. It only emerges in the winter when the lake freezes over. The town is unaware of its existence and therefore I don't need to pay property taxes
3. The most powerful exercise that one can do is a power clean. Not only does it work multiple muscle groups, but doing it just makes you feel like an absolute sigma male.
4. Slapper above the circle, celly with a glove twirl and point.
5. One cannot go wrong with a good steak.
6. Probably end up around 2nd in the league. Defense is one of the best in the league but offense is around 3rd. Should be a good season for sure.

Love the rankings. Personally I think you're overvaluing goalies a bit too much. Istanbul should be #2. Goalies at this range don't really have too much of an influence, so long as they're serviceable.

It's hard to rank over potential. These rankings are based on where they are now, not where they will be during the season. Teams can look very different at the start of the year. I mean, when I started my sheets last season, Saskatoon was ranked near the bottom for a good bit, but they were claiming really well and consistently rose in the rankings, eventually becoming a top ranked team. With all of these before the season starting, it is better to take it with a grain of salt. So much can change week by week

With the massive influx of players in the VHLM due to the draft now assigned to their teams, with plenty more in free agency soon to be added, the rankings have been jumbled and shifted, with last season’s top teams moving down and the bad teams moving up, and a ton of potential with each squad. There is plenty of room for these placements to change, and one could argue for really any team to be at the very least competitive. Of course, some teams will eventually be able to be ruled out once the season actually starts. The losses have to go somewhere after all.
 

10. Mexico City Kings
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 8
Mexico is one of the smaller rosters in the league right now, and also one of the weakest. They are the only team in the league as of now that does not have two or more defensemen, which hurts the team significantly. They are also the only team that lacks a goaltender. The lack of a goaltender is something that cannot be overlooked lightly. There is one in free agency that is at least starter level. Bringing them in could definitely improve this team in the rankings. The same can be said with acquiring a defenseman as well. Where the team is at now, however, this team is not a threat.
 

9. Philadelphia Reapers
Offense Rank: 9
Defense Rank: 9
Philadelphia is a very weak team at this point, BUT they have a goaltender, and a pretty good one at that. They boast a pretty solid defensive core, although pretty low on TPE, growth is the main focus for this team. I doubt this team will be very competitive, but they should look pretty good going into next season. They are likely to sell off a few pieces, as some will hit the 200 TPE cap before the end of the season, to make a legit push for the next season.
 

8. Mississauga Hounds
Offense Rank: 10
Defense Rank: 4
Mississauga could definitely be a team to make great strides for this season. As of now, the majority of their forwards are fresh out of the draft, so there is not much TPE to go around between them. Their defense is much more established and is definitely the strength of the team. If their forwards put a great effort in claiming, this team could be a decent threat.
 

7. Saskatoon Wild
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 10
The typical regression after a successful season. Their forward strength maintained a solid form, obviously a step back but still should be formidable. The massive weak spot (and I mean massive) on the team is the defense. A defense TPE average of 58 is not something a team can compete with. While their offense might keep them in the hunt, their defense will hold them back from truly competing.
 

6. San Diego Marlins
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 6
San Diego has a pretty average offense and defense at this point. What is big for this squad is that they almost have a full roster, and having most of those players already in the 100s. This team could definitely sneak up on some other squads if growth and building goes right. They should look good for this season and the next, so long as claiming goes right.
 

5. Houston Bulls
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 7
Houston boasts a slightly more experienced squad than other teams, may it also be one of the more depleted rosters still primed for competition. They are at a bit of a crossroads, as while they would definitely make the playoffs as of now, they also likely won’t be able to compete. Should they make a push for the Cup, or sell off at the deadline? It all depends on how they sim. They could certainly go either way.
 

4. Halifax 21st
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 2
Halifax actually broke my spreadsheet. I only have room for a max of twelve players for each position, and Halifax has FOURTEEN forwards. So many forwards, probably should have drafted more defensemen, but I digress. One could look at that initial offense rank and wonder why this team is ranked so high, and it is mainly due to potential. Their offense is brought down because of the guys fresh out of the draft in the 60s TPE, whereas removing those guys, the ranking is boosted. This team could 100% be a strong, competitive team, so long as their players stay active and keep claiming. While weak now, they should be an absolute unit as the season progresses. 
 

3. Miami Marauders
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 3
Miami is similar to Houston, in the fact that their roster is smaller, but with a higher TPE. This team has a higher likelihood to make a push than sell off than Houston, in my opinion. A lot of this team will likely be leaving after this season, and they will likely be very good coming out of the gate. Of course, over the course of the season, this team could slip, as their players hit the cap while other teams keep growing, boasting more depth as well. At the very least, playoffs are a guarantee.
 

2. Las Vegas Aces
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 5
Las Vegas showcases a very strong offense right out of the gate, with their defense lagging behind slightly. Pretty much the entirety of this team will be gone come next season, so the time to compete is now. This team is going to be very competitive throughout the season, and likely going to get stronger through free agency and the deadline. It is definitely the year to go all in and break the bank.
 

1. Ottawa Lynx
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 1
Ottawa, while another smallish roster, is arguably the strongest, most balanced team as of now. High TPE players on both sides. It is another team that will have pretty much no players by next season, and also another team that should go all in for this year, mainly focusing on adding to their forward core to compete with the strong Vegas lineup as well as the deep up-and-coming teams below them. 
 
These rankings were surprisingly difficult to actually make because so few teams were balanced on both offense and defense, with a lot of variation between the two cores. Of course, that should be the expectation coming out of the draft, with retended players being stronger and the team drafting a position of need (where the retention was not), teams are going to look unbalanced. This is also one of the more deep teams I have seen in the VHLM, with a decent amount of parity as of now. This should be a pretty good season to view and plenty of fluctuations should occur in the rankings. I really do not see a real clear-cut contender coming into the season, with many teams definitely in the picture. All-in-all, this should be a pretty good season for the VHLM.
 
(word count: 1181)

With the massive influx of players in the VHLM due to the draft now assigned to their teams, with plenty more in free agency soon to be added, the rankings have been jumbled and shifted, with last season’s top teams moving down and the bad teams moving up, and a ton of potential with each squad. There is plenty of room for these placements to change, and one could argue for really any team to be at the very least competitive. Of course, some teams will eventually be able to be ruled out once the season actually starts. The losses have to go somewhere after all.
 

10. Mexico City Kings
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 8
Mexico is one of the smaller rosters in the league right now, and also one of the weakest. They are the only team in the league as of now that does not have two or more defensemen, which hurts the team significantly. They are also the only team that lacks a goaltender. The lack of a goaltender is something that cannot be overlooked lightly. There is one in free agency that is at least starter level. Bringing them in could definitely improve this team in the rankings. The same can be said with acquiring a defenseman as well. Where the team is at now, however, this team is not a threat.
 

9. Philadelphia Reapers
Offense Rank: 9
Defense Rank: 9
Philadelphia is a very weak team at this point, BUT they have a goaltender, and a pretty good one at that. They boast a pretty solid defensive core, although pretty low on TPE, growth is the main focus for this team. I doubt this team will be very competitive, but they should look pretty good going into next season. They are likely to sell off a few pieces, as some will hit the 200 TPE cap before the end of the season, to make a legit push for the next season.
 

8. Mississauga Hounds
Offense Rank: 10
Defense Rank: 4
Mississauga could definitely be a team to make great strides for this season. As of now, the majority of their forwards are fresh out of the draft, so there is not much TPE to go around between them. Their defense is much more established and is definitely the strength of the team. If their forwards put a great effort in claiming, this team could be a decent threat.
 

7. Saskatoon Wild
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 10
The typical regression after a successful season. Their forward strength maintained a solid form, obviously a step back but still should be formidable. The massive weak spot (and I mean massive) on the team is the defense. A defense TPE average of 58 is not something a team can compete with. While their offense might keep them in the hunt, their defense will hold them back from truly competing.
 

6. San Diego Marlins
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 6
San Diego has a pretty average offense and defense at this point. What is big for this squad is that they almost have a full roster, and having most of those players already in the 100s. This team could definitely sneak up on some other squads if growth and building goes right. They should look good for this season and the next, so long as claiming goes right.
 

5. Houston Bulls
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 7
Houston boasts a slightly more experienced squad than other teams, may it also be one of the more depleted rosters still primed for competition. They are at a bit of a crossroads, as while they would definitely make the playoffs as of now, they also likely won’t be able to compete. Should they make a push for the Cup, or sell off at the deadline? It all depends on how they sim. They could certainly go either way.
 

4. Halifax 21st
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 2
Halifax actually broke my spreadsheet. I only have room for a max of twelve players for each position, and Halifax has FOURTEEN forwards. So many forwards, probably should have drafted more defensemen, but I digress. One could look at that initial offense rank and wonder why this team is ranked so high, and it is mainly due to potential. Their offense is brought down because of the guys fresh out of the draft in the 60s TPE, whereas removing those guys, the ranking is boosted. This team could 100% be a strong, competitive team, so long as their players stay active and keep claiming. While weak now, they should be an absolute unit as the season progresses. 
 

3. Miami Marauders
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 3
Miami is similar to Houston, in the fact that their roster is smaller, but with a higher TPE. This team has a higher likelihood to make a push than sell off than Houston, in my opinion. A lot of this team will likely be leaving after this season, and they will likely be very good coming out of the gate. Of course, over the course of the season, this team could slip, as their players hit the cap while other teams keep growing, boasting more depth as well. At the very least, playoffs are a guarantee.
 

2. Las Vegas Aces
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 5
Las Vegas showcases a very strong offense right out of the gate, with their defense lagging behind slightly. Pretty much the entirety of this team will be gone come next season, so the time to compete is now. This team is going to be very competitive throughout the season, and likely going to get stronger through free agency and the deadline. It is definitely the year to go all in and break the bank.
 

1. Ottawa Lynx
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 1
Ottawa, while another smallish roster, is arguably the strongest, most balanced team as of now. High TPE players on both sides. It is another team that will have pretty much no players by next season, and also another team that should go all in for this year, mainly focusing on adding to their forward core to compete with the strong Vegas lineup as well as the deep up-and-coming teams below them. 
 
These rankings were surprisingly difficult to actually make because so few teams were balanced on both offense and defense, with a lot of variation between the two cores. Of course, that should be the expectation coming out of the draft, with retended players being stronger and the team drafting a position of need (where the retention was not), teams are going to look unbalanced. This is also one of the more deep teams I have seen in the VHLM, with a decent amount of parity as of now. This should be a pretty good season to view and plenty of fluctuations should occur in the rankings. I really do not see a real clear-cut contender coming into the season, with many teams definitely in the picture. All-in-all, this should be a pretty good season for the VHLM.
 
(word count: 1181)

With the massive influx of players in the VHLM due to the draft now assigned to their teams, with plenty more in free agency soon to be added, the rankings have been jumbled and shifted, with last season’s top teams moving down and the bad teams moving up, and a ton of potential with each squad. There is plenty of room for these placements to change, and one could argue for really any team to be at the very least competitive. Of course, some teams will eventually be able to be ruled out once the season actually starts. The losses have to go somewhere after all.
 

10. Mexico City Kings
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 8
Mexico is one of the smaller rosters in the league right now, and also one of the weakest. They are the only team in the league as of now that does not have two or more defensemen, which hurts the team significantly. They are also the only team that lacks a goaltender. The lack of a goaltender is something that cannot be overlooked lightly. There is one in free agency that is at least starter level. Bringing them in could definitely improve this team in the rankings. The same can be said with acquiring a defenseman as well. Where the team is at now, however, this team is not a threat.
 

9. Philadelphia Reapers
Offense Rank: 9
Defense Rank: 9
Philadelphia is a very weak team at this point, BUT they have a goaltender, and a pretty good one at that. They boast a pretty solid defensive core, although pretty low on TPE, growth is the main focus for this team. I doubt this team will be very competitive, but they should look pretty good going into next season. They are likely to sell off a few pieces, as some will hit the 200 TPE cap before the end of the season, to make a legit push for the next season.
 

8. Mississauga Hounds
Offense Rank: 10
Defense Rank: 4
Mississauga could definitely be a team to make great strides for this season. As of now, the majority of their forwards are fresh out of the draft, so there is not much TPE to go around between them. Their defense is much more established and is definitely the strength of the team. If their forwards put a great effort in claiming, this team could be a decent threat.
 

7. Saskatoon Wild
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 10
The typical regression after a successful season. Their forward strength maintained a solid form, obviously a step back but still should be formidable. The massive weak spot (and I mean massive) on the team is the defense. A defense TPE average of 58 is not something a team can compete with. While their offense might keep them in the hunt, their defense will hold them back from truly competing.
 

6. San Diego Marlins
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 6
San Diego has a pretty average offense and defense at this point. What is big for this squad is that they almost have a full roster, and having most of those players already in the 100s. This team could definitely sneak up on some other squads if growth and building goes right. They should look good for this season and the next, so long as claiming goes right.
 

5. Houston Bulls
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 7
Houston boasts a slightly more experienced squad than other teams, may it also be one of the more depleted rosters still primed for competition. They are at a bit of a crossroads, as while they would definitely make the playoffs as of now, they also likely won’t be able to compete. Should they make a push for the Cup, or sell off at the deadline? It all depends on how they sim. They could certainly go either way.
 

4. Halifax 21st
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 2
Halifax actually broke my spreadsheet. I only have room for a max of twelve players for each position, and Halifax has FOURTEEN forwards. So many forwards, probably should have drafted more defensemen, but I digress. One could look at that initial offense rank and wonder why this team is ranked so high, and it is mainly due to potential. Their offense is brought down because of the guys fresh out of the draft in the 60s TPE, whereas removing those guys, the ranking is boosted. This team could 100% be a strong, competitive team, so long as their players stay active and keep claiming. While weak now, they should be an absolute unit as the season progresses. 
 

3. Miami Marauders
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 3
Miami is similar to Houston, in the fact that their roster is smaller, but with a higher TPE. This team has a higher likelihood to make a push than sell off than Houston, in my opinion. A lot of this team will likely be leaving after this season, and they will likely be very good coming out of the gate. Of course, over the course of the season, this team could slip, as their players hit the cap while other teams keep growing, boasting more depth as well. At the very least, playoffs are a guarantee.
 

2. Las Vegas Aces
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 5
Las Vegas showcases a very strong offense right out of the gate, with their defense lagging behind slightly. Pretty much the entirety of this team will be gone come next season, so the time to compete is now. This team is going to be very competitive throughout the season, and likely going to get stronger through free agency and the deadline. It is definitely the year to go all in and break the bank.
 

1. Ottawa Lynx
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 1
Ottawa, while another smallish roster, is arguably the strongest, most balanced team as of now. High TPE players on both sides. It is another team that will have pretty much no players by next season, and also another team that should go all in for this year, mainly focusing on adding to their forward core to compete with the strong Vegas lineup as well as the deep up-and-coming teams below them. 
 
These rankings were surprisingly difficult to actually make because so few teams were balanced on both offense and defense, with a lot of variation between the two cores. Of course, that should be the expectation coming out of the draft, with retended players being stronger and the team drafting a position of need (where the retention was not), teams are going to look unbalanced. This is also one of the more deep teams I have seen in the VHLM, with a decent amount of parity as of now. This should be a pretty good season to view and plenty of fluctuations should occur in the rankings. I really do not see a real clear-cut contender coming into the season, with many teams definitely in the picture. All-in-all, this should be a pretty good season for the VHLM.
 
(word count: 1181)

With the massive influx of players in the VHLM due to the draft now assigned to their teams, with plenty more in free agency soon to be added, the rankings have been jumbled and shifted, with last season’s top teams moving down and the bad teams moving up, and a ton of potential with each squad. There is plenty of room for these placements to change, and one could argue for really any team to be at the very least competitive. Of course, some teams will eventually be able to be ruled out once the season actually starts. The losses have to go somewhere after all.
 

10. Mexico City Kings
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 8
Mexico is one of the smaller rosters in the league right now, and also one of the weakest. They are the only team in the league as of now that does not have two or more defensemen, which hurts the team significantly. They are also the only team that lacks a goaltender. The lack of a goaltender is something that cannot be overlooked lightly. There is one in free agency that is at least starter level. Bringing them in could definitely improve this team in the rankings. The same can be said with acquiring a defenseman as well. Where the team is at now, however, this team is not a threat.
 

9. Philadelphia Reapers
Offense Rank: 9
Defense Rank: 9
Philadelphia is a very weak team at this point, BUT they have a goaltender, and a pretty good one at that. They boast a pretty solid defensive core, although pretty low on TPE, growth is the main focus for this team. I doubt this team will be very competitive, but they should look pretty good going into next season. They are likely to sell off a few pieces, as some will hit the 200 TPE cap before the end of the season, to make a legit push for the next season.
 

8. Mississauga Hounds
Offense Rank: 10
Defense Rank: 4
Mississauga could definitely be a team to make great strides for this season. As of now, the majority of their forwards are fresh out of the draft, so there is not much TPE to go around between them. Their defense is much more established and is definitely the strength of the team. If their forwards put a great effort in claiming, this team could be a decent threat.
 

7. Saskatoon Wild
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 10
The typical regression after a successful season. Their forward strength maintained a solid form, obviously a step back but still should be formidable. The massive weak spot (and I mean massive) on the team is the defense. A defense TPE average of 58 is not something a team can compete with. While their offense might keep them in the hunt, their defense will hold them back from truly competing.
 

6. San Diego Marlins
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 6
San Diego has a pretty average offense and defense at this point. What is big for this squad is that they almost have a full roster, and having most of those players already in the 100s. This team could definitely sneak up on some other squads if growth and building goes right. They should look good for this season and the next, so long as claiming goes right.
 

5. Houston Bulls
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 7
Houston boasts a slightly more experienced squad than other teams, may it also be one of the more depleted rosters still primed for competition. They are at a bit of a crossroads, as while they would definitely make the playoffs as of now, they also likely won’t be able to compete. Should they make a push for the Cup, or sell off at the deadline? It all depends on how they sim. They could certainly go either way.
 

4. Halifax 21st
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 2
Halifax actually broke my spreadsheet. I only have room for a max of twelve players for each position, and Halifax has FOURTEEN forwards. So many forwards, probably should have drafted more defensemen, but I digress. One could look at that initial offense rank and wonder why this team is ranked so high, and it is mainly due to potential. Their offense is brought down because of the guys fresh out of the draft in the 60s TPE, whereas removing those guys, the ranking is boosted. This team could 100% be a strong, competitive team, so long as their players stay active and keep claiming. While weak now, they should be an absolute unit as the season progresses. 
 

3. Miami Marauders
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 3
Miami is similar to Houston, in the fact that their roster is smaller, but with a higher TPE. This team has a higher likelihood to make a push than sell off than Houston, in my opinion. A lot of this team will likely be leaving after this season, and they will likely be very good coming out of the gate. Of course, over the course of the season, this team could slip, as their players hit the cap while other teams keep growing, boasting more depth as well. At the very least, playoffs are a guarantee.
 

2. Las Vegas Aces
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 5
Las Vegas showcases a very strong offense right out of the gate, with their defense lagging behind slightly. Pretty much the entirety of this team will be gone come next season, so the time to compete is now. This team is going to be very competitive throughout the season, and likely going to get stronger through free agency and the deadline. It is definitely the year to go all in and break the bank.
 

1. Ottawa Lynx
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 1
Ottawa, while another smallish roster, is arguably the strongest, most balanced team as of now. High TPE players on both sides. It is another team that will have pretty much no players by next season, and also another team that should go all in for this year, mainly focusing on adding to their forward core to compete with the strong Vegas lineup as well as the deep up-and-coming teams below them. 
 
These rankings were surprisingly difficult to actually make because so few teams were balanced on both offense and defense, with a lot of variation between the two cores. Of course, that should be the expectation coming out of the draft, with retended players being stronger and the team drafting a position of need (where the retention was not), teams are going to look unbalanced. This is also one of the more deep teams I have seen in the VHLM, with a decent amount of parity as of now. This should be a pretty good season to view and plenty of fluctuations should occur in the rankings. I really do not see a real clear-cut contender coming into the season, with many teams definitely in the picture. All-in-all, this should be a pretty good season for the VHLM.
 
(word count: 1181)

With the massive influx of players in the VHLM due to the draft now assigned to their teams, with plenty more in free agency soon to be added, the rankings have been jumbled and shifted, with last season’s top teams moving down and the bad teams moving up, and a ton of potential with each squad. There is plenty of room for these placements to change, and one could argue for really any team to be at the very least competitive. Of course, some teams will eventually be able to be ruled out once the season actually starts. The losses have to go somewhere after all.
 

10. Mexico City Kings
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 8
Mexico is one of the smaller rosters in the league right now, and also one of the weakest. They are the only team in the league as of now that does not have two or more defensemen, which hurts the team significantly. They are also the only team that lacks a goaltender. The lack of a goaltender is something that cannot be overlooked lightly. There is one in free agency that is at least starter level. Bringing them in could definitely improve this team in the rankings. The same can be said with acquiring a defenseman as well. Where the team is at now, however, this team is not a threat.
 

9. Philadelphia Reapers
Offense Rank: 9
Defense Rank: 9
Philadelphia is a very weak team at this point, BUT they have a goaltender, and a pretty good one at that. They boast a pretty solid defensive core, although pretty low on TPE, growth is the main focus for this team. I doubt this team will be very competitive, but they should look pretty good going into next season. They are likely to sell off a few pieces, as some will hit the 200 TPE cap before the end of the season, to make a legit push for the next season.
 

8. Mississauga Hounds
Offense Rank: 10
Defense Rank: 4
Mississauga could definitely be a team to make great strides for this season. As of now, the majority of their forwards are fresh out of the draft, so there is not much TPE to go around between them. Their defense is much more established and is definitely the strength of the team. If their forwards put a great effort in claiming, this team could be a decent threat.
 

7. Saskatoon Wild
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 10
The typical regression after a successful season. Their forward strength maintained a solid form, obviously a step back but still should be formidable. The massive weak spot (and I mean massive) on the team is the defense. A defense TPE average of 58 is not something a team can compete with. While their offense might keep them in the hunt, their defense will hold them back from truly competing.
 

6. San Diego Marlins
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 6
San Diego has a pretty average offense and defense at this point. What is big for this squad is that they almost have a full roster, and having most of those players already in the 100s. This team could definitely sneak up on some other squads if growth and building goes right. They should look good for this season and the next, so long as claiming goes right.
 

5. Houston Bulls
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 7
Houston boasts a slightly more experienced squad than other teams, may it also be one of the more depleted rosters still primed for competition. They are at a bit of a crossroads, as while they would definitely make the playoffs as of now, they also likely won’t be able to compete. Should they make a push for the Cup, or sell off at the deadline? It all depends on how they sim. They could certainly go either way.
 

4. Halifax 21st
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 2
Halifax actually broke my spreadsheet. I only have room for a max of twelve players for each position, and Halifax has FOURTEEN forwards. So many forwards, probably should have drafted more defensemen, but I digress. One could look at that initial offense rank and wonder why this team is ranked so high, and it is mainly due to potential. Their offense is brought down because of the guys fresh out of the draft in the 60s TPE, whereas removing those guys, the ranking is boosted. This team could 100% be a strong, competitive team, so long as their players stay active and keep claiming. While weak now, they should be an absolute unit as the season progresses. 
 

3. Miami Marauders
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 3
Miami is similar to Houston, in the fact that their roster is smaller, but with a higher TPE. This team has a higher likelihood to make a push than sell off than Houston, in my opinion. A lot of this team will likely be leaving after this season, and they will likely be very good coming out of the gate. Of course, over the course of the season, this team could slip, as their players hit the cap while other teams keep growing, boasting more depth as well. At the very least, playoffs are a guarantee.
 

2. Las Vegas Aces
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 5
Las Vegas showcases a very strong offense right out of the gate, with their defense lagging behind slightly. Pretty much the entirety of this team will be gone come next season, so the time to compete is now. This team is going to be very competitive throughout the season, and likely going to get stronger through free agency and the deadline. It is definitely the year to go all in and break the bank.
 

1. Ottawa Lynx
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 1
Ottawa, while another smallish roster, is arguably the strongest, most balanced team as of now. High TPE players on both sides. It is another team that will have pretty much no players by next season, and also another team that should go all in for this year, mainly focusing on adding to their forward core to compete with the strong Vegas lineup as well as the deep up-and-coming teams below them. 
 
These rankings were surprisingly difficult to actually make because so few teams were balanced on both offense and defense, with a lot of variation between the two cores. Of course, that should be the expectation coming out of the draft, with retended players being stronger and the team drafting a position of need (where the retention was not), teams are going to look unbalanced. This is also one of the more deep teams I have seen in the VHLM, with a decent amount of parity as of now. This should be a pretty good season to view and plenty of fluctuations should occur in the rankings. I really do not see a real clear-cut contender coming into the season, with many teams definitely in the picture. All-in-all, this should be a pretty good season for the VHLM.
 
(word count: 1181)

With the massive influx of players in the VHLM due to the draft now assigned to their teams, with plenty more in free agency soon to be added, the rankings have been jumbled and shifted, with last season’s top teams moving down and the bad teams moving up, and a ton of potential with each squad. There is plenty of room for these placements to change, and one could argue for really any team to be at the very least competitive. Of course, some teams will eventually be able to be ruled out once the season actually starts. The losses have to go somewhere after all.
 

10. Mexico City Kings
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 8
Mexico is one of the smaller rosters in the league right now, and also one of the weakest. They are the only team in the league as of now that does not have two or more defensemen, which hurts the team significantly. They are also the only team that lacks a goaltender. The lack of a goaltender is something that cannot be overlooked lightly. There is one in free agency that is at least starter level. Bringing them in could definitely improve this team in the rankings. The same can be said with acquiring a defenseman as well. Where the team is at now, however, this team is not a threat.
 

9. Philadelphia Reapers
Offense Rank: 9
Defense Rank: 9
Philadelphia is a very weak team at this point, BUT they have a goaltender, and a pretty good one at that. They boast a pretty solid defensive core, although pretty low on TPE, growth is the main focus for this team. I doubt this team will be very competitive, but they should look pretty good going into next season. They are likely to sell off a few pieces, as some will hit the 200 TPE cap before the end of the season, to make a legit push for the next season.
 

8. Mississauga Hounds
Offense Rank: 10
Defense Rank: 4
Mississauga could definitely be a team to make great strides for this season. As of now, the majority of their forwards are fresh out of the draft, so there is not much TPE to go around between them. Their defense is much more established and is definitely the strength of the team. If their forwards put a great effort in claiming, this team could be a decent threat.
 

7. Saskatoon Wild
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 10
The typical regression after a successful season. Their forward strength maintained a solid form, obviously a step back but still should be formidable. The massive weak spot (and I mean massive) on the team is the defense. A defense TPE average of 58 is not something a team can compete with. While their offense might keep them in the hunt, their defense will hold them back from truly competing.
 

6. San Diego Marlins
Offense Rank: 6.5
Defense Rank: 6
San Diego has a pretty average offense and defense at this point. What is big for this squad is that they almost have a full roster, and having most of those players already in the 100s. This team could definitely sneak up on some other squads if growth and building goes right. They should look good for this season and the next, so long as claiming goes right.
 

5. Houston Bulls
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 7
Houston boasts a slightly more experienced squad than other teams, may it also be one of the more depleted rosters still primed for competition. They are at a bit of a crossroads, as while they would definitely make the playoffs as of now, they also likely won’t be able to compete. Should they make a push for the Cup, or sell off at the deadline? It all depends on how they sim. They could certainly go either way.
 

4. Halifax 21st
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 2
Halifax actually broke my spreadsheet. I only have room for a max of twelve players for each position, and Halifax has FOURTEEN forwards. So many forwards, probably should have drafted more defensemen, but I digress. One could look at that initial offense rank and wonder why this team is ranked so high, and it is mainly due to potential. Their offense is brought down because of the guys fresh out of the draft in the 60s TPE, whereas removing those guys, the ranking is boosted. This team could 100% be a strong, competitive team, so long as their players stay active and keep claiming. While weak now, they should be an absolute unit as the season progresses. 
 

3. Miami Marauders
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 3
Miami is similar to Houston, in the fact that their roster is smaller, but with a higher TPE. This team has a higher likelihood to make a push than sell off than Houston, in my opinion. A lot of this team will likely be leaving after this season, and they will likely be very good coming out of the gate. Of course, over the course of the season, this team could slip, as their players hit the cap while other teams keep growing, boasting more depth as well. At the very least, playoffs are a guarantee.
 

2. Las Vegas Aces
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 5
Las Vegas showcases a very strong offense right out of the gate, with their defense lagging behind slightly. Pretty much the entirety of this team will be gone come next season, so the time to compete is now. This team is going to be very competitive throughout the season, and likely going to get stronger through free agency and the deadline. It is definitely the year to go all in and break the bank.
 

1. Ottawa Lynx
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 1
Ottawa, while another smallish roster, is arguably the strongest, most balanced team as of now. High TPE players on both sides. It is another team that will have pretty much no players by next season, and also another team that should go all in for this year, mainly focusing on adding to their forward core to compete with the strong Vegas lineup as well as the deep up-and-coming teams below them. 
 
These rankings were surprisingly difficult to actually make because so few teams were balanced on both offense and defense, with a lot of variation between the two cores. Of course, that should be the expectation coming out of the draft, with retended players being stronger and the team drafting a position of need (where the retention was not), teams are going to look unbalanced. This is also one of the more deep teams I have seen in the VHLM, with a decent amount of parity as of now. This should be a pretty good season to view and plenty of fluctuations should occur in the rankings. I really do not see a real clear-cut contender coming into the season, with many teams definitely in the picture. All-in-all, this should be a pretty good season for the VHLM.
 
(word count: 1181)

With the VHLE draft all finished and the rosters beginning to get set, now is the time to take a look at where these teams place. Although it is weird for me to start with the E, they are the smallest league in both teams and players, and also my GM asked me to update the numbers for him. Based on the league population, every team could average six forwards and 3 defensemen, so some rosters are going to appear a bit more unbalanced than others, especially in the construction of the defensive core.
 

8. Rome Gladiators
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 8
The biggest weakness Rome has right now is that they have no defense whatsoever. Now, I am unaware if their GM is teling some of their forwards to change positions or maybe they have some trades in the works, but they have no hope of competing unless they get something on the blue line (although they do have a defensive prospect in the 300s, it looks like their plan is to play up). They do have a good chunk of forwards, but those forwards are on the low side of TPE, so low that they’re behind teams that look to be openly tanking. Growth must be the focus for this team. I don’t see them being at the bottom for the whole season, but as of right now, they do not look to be very good.
 

7. Oslo Storm
Offense Rank: 7
Defense Rank: 7
Oslo is a very barren team, and likely tanking for the next draft. Their best players in each position are from the most recent draft. Despite being heavily depleted, I doubt that this will be a team that makes many trades or really moves out anyone, partly because there isn’t much to trade, but also because they are relatively young. It will take a couple seasons for this team to actually be decent, but as of now, they are not a threat.
 

6. Stockholm Vikings
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 6.5
Stockholm is in a similar place as the Storm. A pretty weak roster with hopes for the next season, but definitely not for this season. What sets them apart is that while Stockholm lacks a goalie, the forwards are a decent bit better. This team will be right beside Oslo, likely jostling for last place after Rome improves.


5. Bratislava Watchmen
Offense Rank: 6
Defense Rank: 3
Bratislava actually has a pretty good defense, but their offense holds them back significantly. They are the first team that is in the hunt somewhat, and should be looking towards upgrading their offense if they truly want to compete. For 2 of their defensemen, this will likely be their last season in the E, whereas the majority of the offense looks to be sticking around for at least another season. There are some pretty solid free agent forwards that could shift them upwards. A goalie upgrade might also be beneficial, however the goalies in the E are pretty weak, so the one they have now should be serviceable enough.


4. Geneva Rush
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 5
Geneva is a pretty average team looking into them. Their defense is actually right at the league average, while their offense is a few steps behind. What they have, however, is two goalies in the 300s for TPE. Trading one of them away could definitely net either a draft pick to use or flip, or a forward to bolster the weak spot of the team. While both offense and defense are behind other teams, their goaltending could be key in carrying them past stronger opponents.


3. Cologne Express
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 4
Speaking of stronger opponents, Cologne is very strong on offense, and decent on defense. Both areas, they are significantly better than the team right below them, creating a real separation between the top teams and the bottom teams (although another divide is right above them). The biggest weakness for this team is that they lack a goaltender. Look at them as the potential trade partner with Geneva for a goaltender.


2. Istanbul Red Wolves
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 1.5
Istanbul has a very strong defense, however their offense is a significant step back from the rest of the competition. Still, goaltending is very strong for this team. I could see this team being a legitimate competitor, especially if their forwards grow consistently and quickly. Look for this team to make a savvy move at the deadline to make a massive push for the offseason.


1. Vasteras Iron Eagles
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 1.5
Coming out of the draft, Vasteras is the best team in the league. Their offense is a significant margin above every other team (20% better than Cologne) and their defense has been at the top before and now after the draft. Only concern will be goaltending, as their current starter appears to be pushing towards playing up. This is another team that will be interested in trading with Geneva for a goaltender, especially since they have plenty of draft picks to make a possibly needed overpay.
 
Looking at the league as of now, defense is much stronger throughout the league, whereas offense is pretty weak. The better teams will be the ones that focus on the offensive side and build on their forward core, as defense is more or less consistently good across the league. Goaltending will also play a massive role. There are not many high end tenders in the league, with few likely hitting the 400 TPE cap, so teams that do have a really strong goalie coming into the season will see either a lot of success, or a lot of trade interest and could net a good haul. Of course, a lot of things can change over the course of the season, so take these rankings with a decently large grain of salt, and it’s more of what teams need to catch up and make a push and what teams can afford to sit back coming right out of the gate.
(word count: 1021)

With the VHLE draft all finished and the rosters beginning to get set, now is the time to take a look at where these teams place. Although it is weird for me to start with the E, they are the smallest league in both teams and players, and also my GM asked me to update the numbers for him. Based on the league population, every team could average six forwards and 3 defensemen, so some rosters are going to appear a bit more unbalanced than others, especially in the construction of the defensive core.
 

8. Rome Gladiators
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 8
The biggest weakness Rome has right now is that they have no defense whatsoever. Now, I am unaware if their GM is teling some of their forwards to change positions or maybe they have some trades in the works, but they have no hope of competing unless they get something on the blue line (although they do have a defensive prospect in the 300s, it looks like their plan is to play up). They do have a good chunk of forwards, but those forwards are on the low side of TPE, so low that they’re behind teams that look to be openly tanking. Growth must be the focus for this team. I don’t see them being at the bottom for the whole season, but as of right now, they do not look to be very good.
 

7. Oslo Storm
Offense Rank: 7
Defense Rank: 7
Oslo is a very barren team, and likely tanking for the next draft. Their best players in each position are from the most recent draft. Despite being heavily depleted, I doubt that this will be a team that makes many trades or really moves out anyone, partly because there isn’t much to trade, but also because they are relatively young. It will take a couple seasons for this team to actually be decent, but as of now, they are not a threat.
 

6. Stockholm Vikings
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 6.5
Stockholm is in a similar place as the Storm. A pretty weak roster with hopes for the next season, but definitely not for this season. What sets them apart is that while Stockholm lacks a goalie, the forwards are a decent bit better. This team will be right beside Oslo, likely jostling for last place after Rome improves.


5. Bratislava Watchmen
Offense Rank: 6
Defense Rank: 3
Bratislava actually has a pretty good defense, but their offense holds them back significantly. They are the first team that is in the hunt somewhat, and should be looking towards upgrading their offense if they truly want to compete. For 2 of their defensemen, this will likely be their last season in the E, whereas the majority of the offense looks to be sticking around for at least another season. There are some pretty solid free agent forwards that could shift them upwards. A goalie upgrade might also be beneficial, however the goalies in the E are pretty weak, so the one they have now should be serviceable enough.


4. Geneva Rush
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 5
Geneva is a pretty average team looking into them. Their defense is actually right at the league average, while their offense is a few steps behind. What they have, however, is two goalies in the 300s for TPE. Trading one of them away could definitely net either a draft pick to use or flip, or a forward to bolster the weak spot of the team. While both offense and defense are behind other teams, their goaltending could be key in carrying them past stronger opponents.


3. Cologne Express
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 4
Speaking of stronger opponents, Cologne is very strong on offense, and decent on defense. Both areas, they are significantly better than the team right below them, creating a real separation between the top teams and the bottom teams (although another divide is right above them). The biggest weakness for this team is that they lack a goaltender. Look at them as the potential trade partner with Geneva for a goaltender.


2. Istanbul Red Wolves
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 1.5
Istanbul has a very strong defense, however their offense is a significant step back from the rest of the competition. Still, goaltending is very strong for this team. I could see this team being a legitimate competitor, especially if their forwards grow consistently and quickly. Look for this team to make a savvy move at the deadline to make a massive push for the offseason.


1. Vasteras Iron Eagles
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 1.5
Coming out of the draft, Vasteras is the best team in the league. Their offense is a significant margin above every other team (20% better than Cologne) and their defense has been at the top before and now after the draft. Only concern will be goaltending, as their current starter appears to be pushing towards playing up. This is another team that will be interested in trading with Geneva for a goaltender, especially since they have plenty of draft picks to make a possibly needed overpay.
 
Looking at the league as of now, defense is much stronger throughout the league, whereas offense is pretty weak. The better teams will be the ones that focus on the offensive side and build on their forward core, as defense is more or less consistently good across the league. Goaltending will also play a massive role. There are not many high end tenders in the league, with few likely hitting the 400 TPE cap, so teams that do have a really strong goalie coming into the season will see either a lot of success, or a lot of trade interest and could net a good haul. Of course, a lot of things can change over the course of the season, so take these rankings with a decently large grain of salt, and it’s more of what teams need to catch up and make a push and what teams can afford to sit back coming right out of the gate.
(word count: 1021)

With the VHLE draft all finished and the rosters beginning to get set, now is the time to take a look at where these teams place. Although it is weird for me to start with the E, they are the smallest league in both teams and players, and also my GM asked me to update the numbers for him. Based on the league population, every team could average six forwards and 3 defensemen, so some rosters are going to appear a bit more unbalanced than others, especially in the construction of the defensive core.
 

8. Rome Gladiators
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 8
The biggest weakness Rome has right now is that they have no defense whatsoever. Now, I am unaware if their GM is teling some of their forwards to change positions or maybe they have some trades in the works, but they have no hope of competing unless they get something on the blue line (although they do have a defensive prospect in the 300s, it looks like their plan is to play up). They do have a good chunk of forwards, but those forwards are on the low side of TPE, so low that they’re behind teams that look to be openly tanking. Growth must be the focus for this team. I don’t see them being at the bottom for the whole season, but as of right now, they do not look to be very good.
 

7. Oslo Storm
Offense Rank: 7
Defense Rank: 7
Oslo is a very barren team, and likely tanking for the next draft. Their best players in each position are from the most recent draft. Despite being heavily depleted, I doubt that this will be a team that makes many trades or really moves out anyone, partly because there isn’t much to trade, but also because they are relatively young. It will take a couple seasons for this team to actually be decent, but as of now, they are not a threat.
 

6. Stockholm Vikings
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 6.5
Stockholm is in a similar place as the Storm. A pretty weak roster with hopes for the next season, but definitely not for this season. What sets them apart is that while Stockholm lacks a goalie, the forwards are a decent bit better. This team will be right beside Oslo, likely jostling for last place after Rome improves.


5. Bratislava Watchmen
Offense Rank: 6
Defense Rank: 3
Bratislava actually has a pretty good defense, but their offense holds them back significantly. They are the first team that is in the hunt somewhat, and should be looking towards upgrading their offense if they truly want to compete. For 2 of their defensemen, this will likely be their last season in the E, whereas the majority of the offense looks to be sticking around for at least another season. There are some pretty solid free agent forwards that could shift them upwards. A goalie upgrade might also be beneficial, however the goalies in the E are pretty weak, so the one they have now should be serviceable enough.


4. Geneva Rush
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 5
Geneva is a pretty average team looking into them. Their defense is actually right at the league average, while their offense is a few steps behind. What they have, however, is two goalies in the 300s for TPE. Trading one of them away could definitely net either a draft pick to use or flip, or a forward to bolster the weak spot of the team. While both offense and defense are behind other teams, their goaltending could be key in carrying them past stronger opponents.


3. Cologne Express
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 4
Speaking of stronger opponents, Cologne is very strong on offense, and decent on defense. Both areas, they are significantly better than the team right below them, creating a real separation between the top teams and the bottom teams (although another divide is right above them). The biggest weakness for this team is that they lack a goaltender. Look at them as the potential trade partner with Geneva for a goaltender.


2. Istanbul Red Wolves
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 1.5
Istanbul has a very strong defense, however their offense is a significant step back from the rest of the competition. Still, goaltending is very strong for this team. I could see this team being a legitimate competitor, especially if their forwards grow consistently and quickly. Look for this team to make a savvy move at the deadline to make a massive push for the offseason.


1. Vasteras Iron Eagles
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 1.5
Coming out of the draft, Vasteras is the best team in the league. Their offense is a significant margin above every other team (20% better than Cologne) and their defense has been at the top before and now after the draft. Only concern will be goaltending, as their current starter appears to be pushing towards playing up. This is another team that will be interested in trading with Geneva for a goaltender, especially since they have plenty of draft picks to make a possibly needed overpay.
 
Looking at the league as of now, defense is much stronger throughout the league, whereas offense is pretty weak. The better teams will be the ones that focus on the offensive side and build on their forward core, as defense is more or less consistently good across the league. Goaltending will also play a massive role. There are not many high end tenders in the league, with few likely hitting the 400 TPE cap, so teams that do have a really strong goalie coming into the season will see either a lot of success, or a lot of trade interest and could net a good haul. Of course, a lot of things can change over the course of the season, so take these rankings with a decently large grain of salt, and it’s more of what teams need to catch up and make a push and what teams can afford to sit back coming right out of the gate.
(word count: 1021)

With the VHLE draft all finished and the rosters beginning to get set, now is the time to take a look at where these teams place. Although it is weird for me to start with the E, they are the smallest league in both teams and players, and also my GM asked me to update the numbers for him. Based on the league population, every team could average six forwards and 3 defensemen, so some rosters are going to appear a bit more unbalanced than others, especially in the construction of the defensive core.
 

8. Rome Gladiators
Offense Rank: 8
Defense Rank: 8
The biggest weakness Rome has right now is that they have no defense whatsoever. Now, I am unaware if their GM is teling some of their forwards to change positions or maybe they have some trades in the works, but they have no hope of competing unless they get something on the blue line (although they do have a defensive prospect in the 300s, it looks like their plan is to play up). They do have a good chunk of forwards, but those forwards are on the low side of TPE, so low that they’re behind teams that look to be openly tanking. Growth must be the focus for this team. I don’t see them being at the bottom for the whole season, but as of right now, they do not look to be very good.
 

7. Oslo Storm
Offense Rank: 7
Defense Rank: 7
Oslo is a very barren team, and likely tanking for the next draft. Their best players in each position are from the most recent draft. Despite being heavily depleted, I doubt that this will be a team that makes many trades or really moves out anyone, partly because there isn’t much to trade, but also because they are relatively young. It will take a couple seasons for this team to actually be decent, but as of now, they are not a threat.
 

6. Stockholm Vikings
Offense Rank: 3
Defense Rank: 6.5
Stockholm is in a similar place as the Storm. A pretty weak roster with hopes for the next season, but definitely not for this season. What sets them apart is that while Stockholm lacks a goalie, the forwards are a decent bit better. This team will be right beside Oslo, likely jostling for last place after Rome improves.


5. Bratislava Watchmen
Offense Rank: 6
Defense Rank: 3
Bratislava actually has a pretty good defense, but their offense holds them back significantly. They are the first team that is in the hunt somewhat, and should be looking towards upgrading their offense if they truly want to compete. For 2 of their defensemen, this will likely be their last season in the E, whereas the majority of the offense looks to be sticking around for at least another season. There are some pretty solid free agent forwards that could shift them upwards. A goalie upgrade might also be beneficial, however the goalies in the E are pretty weak, so the one they have now should be serviceable enough.


4. Geneva Rush
Offense Rank: 5
Defense Rank: 5
Geneva is a pretty average team looking into them. Their defense is actually right at the league average, while their offense is a few steps behind. What they have, however, is two goalies in the 300s for TPE. Trading one of them away could definitely net either a draft pick to use or flip, or a forward to bolster the weak spot of the team. While both offense and defense are behind other teams, their goaltending could be key in carrying them past stronger opponents.


3. Cologne Express
Offense Rank: 2
Defense Rank: 4
Speaking of stronger opponents, Cologne is very strong on offense, and decent on defense. Both areas, they are significantly better than the team right below them, creating a real separation between the top teams and the bottom teams (although another divide is right above them). The biggest weakness for this team is that they lack a goaltender. Look at them as the potential trade partner with Geneva for a goaltender.


2. Istanbul Red Wolves
Offense Rank: 4
Defense Rank: 1.5
Istanbul has a very strong defense, however their offense is a significant step back from the rest of the competition. Still, goaltending is very strong for this team. I could see this team being a legitimate competitor, especially if their forwards grow consistently and quickly. Look for this team to make a savvy move at the deadline to make a massive push for the offseason.


1. Vasteras Iron Eagles
Offense Rank: 1
Defense Rank: 1.5
Coming out of the draft, Vasteras is the best team in the league. Their offense is a significant margin above every other team (20% better than Cologne) and their defense has been at the top before and now after the draft. Only concern will be goaltending, as their current starter appears to be pushing towards playing up. This is another team that will be interested in trading with Geneva for a goaltender, especially since they have plenty of draft picks to make a possibly needed overpay.
 
Looking at the league as of now, defense is much stronger throughout the league, whereas offense is pretty weak. The better teams will be the ones that focus on the offensive side and build on their forward core, as defense is more or less consistently good across the league. Goaltending will also play a massive role. There are not many high end tenders in the league, with few likely hitting the 400 TPE cap, so teams that do have a really strong goalie coming into the season will see either a lot of success, or a lot of trade interest and could net a good haul. Of course, a lot of things can change over the course of the season, so take these rankings with a decently large grain of salt, and it’s more of what teams need to catch up and make a push and what teams can afford to sit back coming right out of the gate.
(word count: 1021)

Vancouver? Threepeat? Meta? VHLE? What are you talking about? Are you delusional? Cmon let's see if trivia continues next season.