Grape

While it is likely too early to say this, I would like to say that, so far, the recruitment drive has been a success. Not only did we get sheer quantity in a ton of new members (my email inbox has yet to forgive me), but also a lot of high quality members who have already shown more activity than some of the longer standing members. The big takeaway in this drive is that there are still a fair amount of people out there interested in this sort of thing, and all that was needed was to simply put it out there that we exist. That being said, if we could follow this up with more successful drives, bring in some more top notch members, we could enter a new golden age in the VHL, maybe not at the same level as the reddit recruitment or covid times, but still a legitimate increase in both quantity of members and activity, and see expansion in the leagues. The M is already nearing capacity and could be due for some growth, which would be nice to see, considering as of now only two teams miss the playoffs. The E might remain relevant for a few more seasons and could go back up to six, or if success is really booming, could sniff eight. The VHL may not see expansion in some time. Inactives would likely be axed first before expansion occurs. While this all depends on the future, I can at least say I have hope. Before the drive, the league was stagnating at best, slowly bleeding itself dry. Now, air has filled the lungs once again, and the league finally has some activity again.

I personally feel pride when I see someone get punished for using AI because I attribute that rule's creation to my article being plagiarized :)

grAIpe

20 more TPE and he can be added to the Pension Pack

While it is likely too early to say this, I would like to say that, so far, the recruitment drive has been a success. Not only did we get sheer quantity in a ton of new members (my email inbox has yet to forgive me), but also a lot of high quality members who have already shown more activity than some of the longer standing members. The big takeaway in this drive is that there are still a fair amount of people out there interested in this sort of thing, and all that was needed was to simply put it out there that we exist. That being said, if we could follow this up with more successful drives, bring in some more top notch members, we could enter a new golden age in the VHL, maybe not at the same level as the reddit recruitment or covid times, but still a legitimate increase in both quantity of members and activity, and see expansion in the leagues. The M is already nearing capacity and could be due for some growth, which would be nice to see, considering as of now only two teams miss the playoffs. The E might remain relevant for a few more seasons and could go back up to six, or if success is really booming, could sniff eight. The VHL may not see expansion in some time. Inactives would likely be axed first before expansion occurs. While this all depends on the future, I can at least say I have hope. Before the drive, the league was stagnating at best, slowly bleeding itself dry. Now, air has filled the lungs once again, and the league finally has some activity again.

Jumping with joy when I finally pull the reverse holo Olober Syko card worth $1.20

Don't care Ottawa winning the cup Ivanov - Shotzky best duo in the league not even close

(Been sitting on this one for almost a year now. Doing it in parts because I’m a glutton for TPE)

A (long) while back, Gustav made a massive article about the best picks in every single draft in VHL history. It was a massive endeavor and it immediately caught my interest. Perhaps it would be a fun project to look into other things involving the draft. My first thought was trying to find the biggest bust in each draft, but I trashed that idea. In some instances that could be cruel to some members who’s player simply didn’t pan out. Instead, I went and looked into the best players in the final round of every VHL draft. After hours of work and some painful searching, I have finally completed this project. Keep in mind that I will only list players who have registered at least one point (goalies at least one game) in the VHL unless: they are the only player in their draft that had actually played any games; they were drafted in season 84 and up, as they are, to me at least, still considered prospects. Without any more delay, from season 1 to season 88, here are the best players from the final round of the VHL draft.
 
Season 1
Pick 51: Bruce Wayne - D
 
Mr. Wayne proved to be a fantastic player and excellent pick for Helsinki, putting up 42 goals and 100 assists for 142 points as a defenseman in his 289 game career in the VHL. While never winning a cup, he appeared to be a great producer on the blue line and proved to be the top last round defenseman in a final round with 2 other really good defensemen. The only real knock would be his playoff performance, only registering 3 assists in 18 playoff games, but hey, still pretty good for a 7th rounder.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 49: Jeremy Lamborghini - D (27 G, 102 A)
Pick 50: John Pereira - G (0 W, 0.832 SV%, 6.26 GAA)
Pick 52: Marian Oshie - LW (12 G, 24 A)
Pick 53: Waldo Cezar - D (17 G, 77 A)
Pick 55: Jeff Van Slacker - LW (9 G, 15 A)
 
Season 2
Pick 39: Edward Eldred - RW
 
A really really good pick by Calgary, snagging Edward in the 2nd to last pick of the draft, he would end up being a very good player, amassing 145 goals and 218 assists for 363 points in 360 games, barely securing a ppg pace. Edward would also net 8 goals and 23 assists for 31 points in 28 playoff games, and his performance helped his team secure the championship in Season 2 and 3. No other last round pick really came super close to being as good as Edward, with the only argument really being Goldberg.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 33: Chris Orosz - G (2 W, 0.905 SV%, 3.60 GAA)
Pick 34: Chris Maher (13 G, 38 A)
Pick 35: Craig Levver (20 G, 39 A)
Pick 36: Greg Goldberg (162 W, 0.914 SV%, 3.45 GAA, 6 SO)
Pick 37: Patrice Roydeur (95 W, 0.910 SV%, 3.42 GAA, 5 SO)
Pick 38: Nevets Detroit - C (27 G, 62 A,)
Pick 40: Alexei Fedorov - LW (14 G, 16 A, 30 P)
 
Season 3
Pick 19: Edward Holm - LW
 
Holm only needed to play one game or put up a single point to be the best last round pick for the season 3 draft, but he decided to go above and beyond, putting up 142 goals and 312 assists for 454 points in 442 games, hitting that ppg pace. Edward Holm turned into the second Calgary last round steal and their second high scoring Edward. Playoff success was also shown, with Holm getting 16 goals and 26 assists for 42 points over 58 games and earning himself a ring in seasons 3 and 8.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 4
Pick 23: Jonathan Coward - D
 
Jonathan Coward turned out to be one of the better players for Helsinki, logging 21 goals and 82 assists for 103 points in 214 games. Playoff performance was a struggle, with 1 goal and 4 assists in 21 postseason games, but he provided a good deal of offense on the blue line, much like late pick Bruce Wayne before him. At the very least, Coward continues the early trend of late round steals being made by either Calgary or Helsinki, with Calgary getting the forwards and Helsinki getting the defensemen.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 18: Jonathan Bernier - G (2 W, 0.839 SV%, 6.93 G.A.A)
Pick 21: Mikael Jonsson - D (9 G, 16 A, 25 P)
 
Season 5
Pick 36: Raul Thundercat - G
 
Raul is the first goalie “steal” and not much can really be said about them. Drafted by Calgary (of course), he posted a record of 9-52-3 with a 0.859 SV% and 6.49 G.A.A, registering 1 shutout in his career. There was not much competition in this late round, so Mr. Thundercat gets off easy in this regard. Cool name though.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 37: Mikhail Prospov - G (2 W, 0.865 SV%, 5.56 GAA)
 
Season 6
Pick 33: Aiden Fox - G
 
Aiden Fox breaks the trend of Calgary/Helsinki late round steals, being picked by Toronto. Unfortunately, however, he did not have the best career. In 13 games, Aiden Fox posted a 0-5-1 record with a 0.890 SV% and 6.50 G.A.A. Likely never being more than a sparsely used backup, Fox had an uneventful and short career, that only benefits from nobody else in the last round of this draft class playing a game.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 7
No VHL Players
 
Season 8
Pick 26: Matt Fletcher - RW
 
Matt Fletcher appeared to be an absolute unit for Riga, generating 139 goals and 179 assists for 318 points in 288 games. I cannot find his postseason data, if there even is any, but I know that he never won a Cup. From what I can gather, he did win the Mikka Virkkunen Trophy for Sportsmanship in season 13, so I can confidently say that Mr. Fletcher is a certified Nice Guy™ 
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 30: Jeff McCarthy - C (40 G, 157 A)
 
Season 9
Pick 21: Sean Costello - C
 
Riga drafts another 300+ point player in the last round with Sean Costello, who absolutely runs away with being the best last round pick this season, posting 139 goals and 203 assists for 342 points in 362 games. Again, not much else can really be said due to recordkeeping being quite poor in the early seasons of the VHL (for the non-HoF players at least), but it can be said that he was an excellent player throughout his career.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 20: Ricky Okposo - G (11 W, 0.865 SV%, 5.47 GAA)
Pick 22: Travis Tyson - LW (9 G, 10 A)

Season 10
Pick 31: Prabal Konstantinov - G
 
Third season in a row in which Riga gets the last round steal, this being the only player in this round to suit up for any games. In their 28 game career, Konstantinov posted a record of 15-11-1 with a 0.869 SV% and 3.74 G.A.A. Honestly a pretty admirable win percentage given how few games they actually played. Of course, with no competition in the last round, they’d be a shoe-in even if they lost every game
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 11
Pick 20: Jimmy Ryan - G
 
A Helsinki pick, Jimmy Ryan had a pretty rough 72 game career, posting a record of 9-51-9 with a 0.861 SV% and 4.96 G.A.A. While not the best, he was better than not playing any games at all, and therefore is the best player in the last round.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 12
Pick 23: Harvey Singh - D
 
New York put in a good amount of work in this final round, picking up 3 players, the best of which being Harvey Singh. Singh would go on and pot 129 goals and 160 assists for 289 points in 288 games. The interesting thing about this player is that despite only playing in 3 seasons, they won two championships. The first being with New York in Season 14, and the next being in Season 16 with Riga. A short yet illustrious career.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 17: Somalian Tiger - LW (12G, 28A)
Pick 18: Jurgen Ferdinand - LW (12G, 19A)
Pick 21: Dmitry Petrov - RW (5G, 15A)
Pick 24: Tony Pajamas - D (11G, 30A)
 
Season 13
Pick 21: Brian Steckel - RW
 
Not much can be said for this Riga pick. Brian Steckel had a surprisingly long yet unfulfilling career, putting up 5 goals and 8 assists for 13 points in 113 games. While the points were not there for the player, something could be said with how long they actually stuck around despite the low offensive generation. I really could not say it was for their defensive game either, having a career +/- of -61.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 14
Pick 27: Steve Collins - LW
 
Collins appears to have been a good player with a short career. A Helsinki pick, Steve Collins put up 50 goals and 81 assists for 131 points in 144 games. From what I could gather, he was an absolute legend in the VHLM, having a 229 point season with Brampton. While he could not translate that dominant play in the VHL, he was still nonetheless a very good player.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 31: Koby Kaine - D (21G, 77A)
 
Season 15
Pick 19: Alexander Randoulov - C
 
Alexander Randoulov would turn out to be a pretty decent player for Seattle, putting up 33 goals and 47 assists for 80 points in 145 games. It’s also funny to note that they had an abysmal +/- at -102. Other than that nothing else to say about this player.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 20: HB Illy - G (0W, 0.882 SV%, 3.93 GAA)
 
Season 16
Pick 18: Jardy Bunclewirth - LW
 
Another elite pick by Calgary, hands-down the best last round pick. It’s absolutely insane that this player was picked as low as they were, even though it was a small draft. 432 games, 291 goals, 398 assists, 689 points, Season 18, 19, and 23 champion, hall-of-famer, and certified beautician. 
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 17: Blade Hunter - RW (121G, 258A)
Pick 21: Alan Garner - G (9W, 0.832 SV%, 6.09 GAA)
Pick 23: Cam Whitney - D (10G, 31A)
 
Season 17
Pick 30: Matt Douglas - D
 
A bit of a fall-off from that last season’s draft, Seattle’s Matt Douglas had a less than spectacular career, garnering 4 goals and 10 assists for 14 points in 78 games and pretty much nothing else. 
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 18
Pick 29: Robin Big Snake - RW
 
A goated name and a pretty good pick by Madrid, Mr. Big Snake potted 47 goals and 91 assists for 138 points in 360 games. A really solid player who contributed positively for 5 seasons. No rings but still a good pick and player.
 
Other VHL Players:
Pick 32: Magnus Huuskonen - D (1G, 3A)
 
Season 19
No VHL Players
 
Season 20
Pick 27: Einer Kallstrom - C
 
Madrid went and drafted the only player in the final round to break into the league with Einar Kallstrom, who put up a pretty lackluster 0 goals and 4 assists in their 6 game tenure. Honestly pretty impressive for the small amount of games they played.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 21
Pick 30: J.J. Stafford - RW
 
Very solid pick by Riga. Stafford would go on to get 74 goals and 204 assists for 278 points in his 432 game career. He was the only player in the last round of the season 21 draft to make it to the league, and it’s safe to say he turned out to be a pretty good player.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 22
Pick 23: Johnny Blaze - D
 
Drafted by Toronto, Johnny Blaze is a very unique player in regards to this list. Looking at his stats, he never registered a single point. In fact, he doesn’t even have a shot on goal. In his 12 games, he played a purely defensive role it seems.
 
No Other VHL Players
 
Season 23
No VHL Players

(2067 words, see y'all next month)

Oh my

HC Davos receives:
Ellis Woolfenden
S94 MOS 4th
S94 VAN 4th

Moscow receives:
Montgomery Burns
S93 DAV 4th


This trade has been accepted by all parties and is pending league approval.

In a shocking turn of events, the Ottawa Lynx had traded possibly the greatest player of all time, Wayne Gretzky, to the San Diego Marlins for a hodgepodge of picks. After being drafted in the fourth round of the S91 draft, Gretzky released a statement that he was recovering from a broken everything and would miss the entirety of the season. A player of this prestige, who had already fallen far in the draft due to their extremely old age of 142 and overall rust in his game, will now be practically non-existent for a full season. Gretzky, the legend he is, was able to make a full recovery in the S91 offseason and engaged in full-contact practice, prepared and ready to hit the ground running in his highly anticipated debut. However, notice came to the GM office in Ottawa that Wayne Gretzky had demanded a trade, citing that the frigid Ottawa weather was impacting the recovery period and needed to be in a warmer location to minimize the threat of reinjury and complete pulverization of his bones. Although he did end up debuting with the Ottawa Lynx, dawning his iconic 99 once more and averaging a point per game, he was officially traded after the 2nd game of the season, tagged on with a handful of picks, to the San Diego Marlins for a bunch of better picks. As was shown before and proven once again, a team can trade for anyone, even Wayne Gretzky.

In a shocking turn of events, the Ottawa Lynx had traded possibly the greatest player of all time, Wayne Gretzky, to the San Diego Marlins for a hodgepodge of picks. After being drafted in the fourth round of the S91 draft, Gretzky released a statement that he was recovering from a broken everything and would miss the entirety of the season. A player of this prestige, who had already fallen far in the draft due to their extremely old age of 142 and overall rust in his game, will now be practically non-existent for a full season. Gretzky, the legend he is, was able to make a full recovery in the S91 offseason and engaged in full-contact practice, prepared and ready to hit the ground running in his highly anticipated debut. However, notice came to the GM office in Ottawa that Wayne Gretzky had demanded a trade, citing that the frigid Ottawa weather was impacting the recovery period and needed to be in a warmer location to minimize the threat of reinjury and complete pulverization of his bones. Although he did end up debuting with the Ottawa Lynx, dawning his iconic 99 once more and averaging a point per game, he was officially traded after the 2nd game of the season, tagged on with a handful of picks, to the San Diego Marlins for a bunch of better picks. As was shown before and proven once again, a team can trade for anyone, even Wayne Gretzky.

In a shocking turn of events, the Ottawa Lynx had traded possibly the greatest player of all time, Wayne Gretzky, to the San Diego Marlins for a hodgepodge of picks. After being drafted in the fourth round of the S91 draft, Gretzky released a statement that he was recovering from a broken everything and would miss the entirety of the season. A player of this prestige, who had already fallen far in the draft due to their extremely old age of 142 and overall rust in his game, will now be practically non-existent for a full season. Gretzky, the legend he is, was able to make a full recovery in the S91 offseason and engaged in full-contact practice, prepared and ready to hit the ground running in his highly anticipated debut. However, notice came to the GM office in Ottawa that Wayne Gretzky had demanded a trade, citing that the frigid Ottawa weather was impacting the recovery period and needed to be in a warmer location to minimize the threat of reinjury and complete pulverization of his bones. Although he did end up debuting with the Ottawa Lynx, dawning his iconic 99 once more and averaging a point per game, he was officially traded after the 2nd game of the season, tagged on with a handful of picks, to the San Diego Marlins for a bunch of better picks. As was shown before and proven once again, a team can trade for anyone, even Wayne Gretzky.

In a shocking turn of events, the Ottawa Lynx had traded possibly the greatest player of all time, Wayne Gretzky, to the San Diego Marlins for a hodgepodge of picks. After being drafted in the fourth round of the S91 draft, Gretzky released a statement that he was recovering from a broken everything and would miss the entirety of the season. A player of this prestige, who had already fallen far in the draft due to their extremely old age of 142 and overall rust in his game, will now be practically non-existent for a full season. Gretzky, the legend he is, was able to make a full recovery in the S91 offseason and engaged in full-contact practice, prepared and ready to hit the ground running in his highly anticipated debut. However, notice came to the GM office in Ottawa that Wayne Gretzky had demanded a trade, citing that the frigid Ottawa weather was impacting the recovery period and needed to be in a warmer location to minimize the threat of reinjury and complete pulverization of his bones. Although he did end up debuting with the Ottawa Lynx, dawning his iconic 99 once more and averaging a point per game, he was officially traded after the 2nd game of the season, tagged on with a handful of picks, to the San Diego Marlins for a bunch of better picks. As was shown before and proven once again, a team can trade for anyone, even Wayne Gretzky.

Despite an outstanding performance by ice hockey goalie David Slezak last season, boasting impressive stats and demonstrating exceptional skill between the pipes, the overall success of the team remained elusive. Slezak consistently stood tall, making crucial saves and displaying remarkable agility throughout the season. However, the team struggled to secure victories, facing challenges in offensive production and defensive cohesion. His remarkable efforts to keep the team competitive, the lack of support in other areas ultimately hindered the overall success of the squad. Slezak's achievements and resilience in the face of adversity highlight his dedication and talent, even in a season marked by the team's collective struggles.
 
In the heart of ice hockey passion, where the crisp air echoes with the clashing of sticks and the thunderous cheers of fans, stands a formidable figure ready to defend the sacred goalposts. His name is David Slezak, a seasoned goaltender who has earned his stripes on the ice and is now poised to embark on a thrilling journey with the Oslo Storm in the Virtual Hockey League Europe (VHLE).
 
Hailing from the Czech Republic, David Slezak's journey to becoming a prominent goaltender in the VHL has been one paved with dedication, skill, and an unyielding passion for the sport. Slezak's early years were marked by an innate talent for stopping pucks and a determination that set him apart from his peers, last season also with Oslo.
His breakthrough came when he joined the Oslo Storm, a team known for its dynamic gameplay and passionate fanbase. Slezak's arrival in Oslo was met with anticipation, as fans eagerly awaited the goalie who could potentially be the missing piece in their quest for glory in the VHLE.
 
As the new season dawns upon the VHLE, Slezak has been hard at work honing his skills and fine-tuning his reflexes. The life of a goaltender is one of constant preparation, both mentally and physically. Slezak, known for his meticulous approach to the game, has been working closely with the coaching staff to analyze opponents' strategies and strengthen his weaknesses.
On the physical front, Slezak has been hitting the gym, focusing on agility drills, and fine-tuning his hand-eye coordination. These efforts are not just for personal glory but are crucial to the Oslo Storm's success in the upcoming season.
 
Hockey is a team sport, and a goaltender's success is often intertwined with the performance of the entire team. Slezak understands the importance of building strong bonds with his defensive lineup and communicating seamlessly with his teammates. The Oslo Storm have undergone some roster changes, and Slezak has been instrumental in fostering a sense of camaraderie both on and off the ice. Team chemistry is not built overnight, and Slezak's leadership qualities have played a pivotal role in uniting the Oslo Storm under a common goal – to dominate the VHLE and bring home the coveted championship.
 
Known for their aggressive and fast-paced style of play, the Oslo Storm has always been a force to be reckoned with in the VHLE. Players like Logan Ninefingers @Scurvy and Jussi Jokinenegg @HearnNation67 will carry the team offensively every night and look to put people in seats. Slezak's goaltending prowess aligns seamlessly with the team's strategy, making him a perfect fit for the Storm. His ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations adds an extra layer of confidence to the team's offensive endeavors.
The Oslo Storm's fans, affectionately known as the "Stormchasers," have high expectations for the upcoming season. Slezak's presence between the pipes is seen as a beacon of hope, a guardian who will stand resolute against the fierce attacks of rival teams.
 
In the unpredictable world of sports, facing adversity is inevitable. Slezak, however, is no stranger to challenges. Throughout his career, he has encountered setbacks, injuries, and moments of self-doubt. Yet, it is in these trying times that the true character of a goaltender is revealed. Slezak's resilience and unwavering determination have seen him rise from the ashes of setbacks stronger and more formidable. The Oslo Storm, recognizing this tenacity, has rallied behind their goaltender, creating a fortress of support that will be crucial in navigating the stormy seas of the VHLE.
 
Ice hockey is more than just a sport in Oslo; it is a way of life. The Oslo Storm holds a special place in the hearts of its fans, and David Slezak's presence has injected a new level of excitement into the city's hockey scene. The Storm's home games are anticipated events, drawing fans from all corners of the city to witness their team in action.
Slezak's popularity has transcended the rink, with local businesses and sponsors eager to align themselves with the rising star. The goaltender's affable personality and commitment to community engagement have endeared him to fans and non-fans alike, solidifying his status as not just a sports icon but a community ambassador.
 
As the VHLE season opener looms on the horizon, the excitement in Oslo is palpable. The Stormchasers, adorned in team colors and chanting fervently, await the moment when David Slezak will lead the Oslo Storm onto the ice for the first time this season. The anticipation is not just about the outcome of a game but about the collective journey of a team with a shared dream. Slezak's presence in goal adds an extra layer of intrigue to the season. Will he emerge as the beacon of hope the Stormchasers believe him to be? Can he thwart the relentless attacks of rival teams and lead the Oslo Storm to victory? Can he repeat his performance from last season? These questions linger in the minds of fans, creating an electric atmosphere that transcends the virtual boundaries of the VHLE.
 
David Slezak's journey with the Oslo Storm in the VHLE is a testament to the enduring spirit of ice hockey. It's a tale of dedication, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence. As the season unfolds, Slezak's performance will not only be a reflection of his individual skill but a symbol of the collective aspirations of the Oslo Storm and its ardent fanbase. The virtual arenas are set, the Stormchasers are ready, and David Slezak stands poised to etch his name into the annals of VHLE history. The puck drops, and the journey begins.
 
1,038 words
1/14
1/21

Something something feeling 22 (please join my team)

A trade befitting Wayne Gretzky himself

I suppose he's right in the end

Bruise Banner: 329 TPE
Xiver Zilla: 435 TPE
King Kisslinger: 628 TPE
Conference Prince-de-Galless: 479 TPE

Obuz Schneider Canet du Bocage: 661 TPE

few

Bruise Banner: 329 TPE
Xiver Zilla: 435 TPE
King Kisslinger: 628 TPE
Conference Prince-de-Galless: 479 TPE

Obuz Schneider Canet du Bocage: 661 TPE

few

It's alright, I'll turn that bad pick into a steal

Bruise Banner: 329 TPE
Xiver Zilla: 435 TPE
King Kisslinger: 628 TPE
Conference Prince-de-Galless: 479 TPE

Obuz Schneider Canet du Bocage: 661 TPE

few

Congratulations to Team Europe on the gold

Welcome!

Welcome all new players! Feel free to reach out to any of the M gms if you need any help moving forward!