LefLop

More VHL Lessons Learned
 
Being back in the VHL and active is a thrilling experience. I'm super happy to be here, and honestly taking a break and making a new player in an unfamiliar engine is very different for me. I've gone over previously what my goals are here in the VHL and my motivation for creating again, but I wanted to quickly speak to surprising things I've learned from my recent spurt of activity here again. 
 
Pre-Draft Questionnaires 
 
In the SBDL your job as a coach is to mainly pitch players and sell them on your program. In here, you are basically immediately thrown into a draft experience, where the GM and his crew basically are best served to figure out who you are and if you are a fit to the team. Given that there are draft picks and player valuations, this creates exciting scenarios where TPE ranking and draft ranking may not match. In the SBA that only happens in the big leagues, and a lot of GMs that are promoted from HCing dont really have pre-draft questionnaire making experience. After going through this process as a draftee again, I totally now realize that I have to change up my questionnaire process. Some of the questions I got from the teams were really not that easy to answer, or even boring to answer. I'm going to definitely have to reevaluate my own questions now. I think I'll be best suited to have a pool of questions and then evaluate the draftee and send ones that I think would be interesting or answerable. I will definitely have to have them be different based on if they are a first gen or not, at the very least. I also think league only questions are boring and dont really make a team stand out. I was talking to a SBA GM recently and I realized that everything that GM does exudes culture. If I am aiming to build my own culture or identity to stand my team out, that means that I will need to exploit every opportunity that I have to talk to players. I know that free time and lack of skills are a valid excuse, but I should also look to not rely on them and push myself to do better. 
 
The other thing that's really always impressed me was delegation. Every time I come back here I'm reminded how well the minors utilize their staff. Teams have contacted me with the aGM taking the lead, some teams even have lead scouts! I've always been more of a loner type guy, and my last couple of apprentices have sadly gone inactive. I would love to go back to my commissioners and really find someone else to mentor and use more effectively. To be honest, looking back at it, I may have been too hands off on the process and not been a good enough leader. I totally realize now that I can do better and should push my AGMs and be more vocal with them. 
 
One of my new years resolutions was to be less lazy and take on a growth mindset. So far I've only done ok. There are bad days where I fall into old habits or just tell myself I'm too tired to deal with it and just dawdle. I've even done it once at work already. I'm aware of these mistakes, but I catch myself doing them but also doing nothing to fix that, which isnt great. Hopefully these broadened horizons from different leagues will help me become better. 
 
Thanks for reading! 
LefLop 
 
(Sorry for poor formatting I cant figure this mobile formatting out for my life)

The formatting is great dude, welcome back! I love your ideas about building a culture vs building a spreadsheet. In our kind of sim leagues (vs like an EHM or GM-league), we sometimes forget that we’re dealing with people, and that makes team culture important. People don’t put energy into things they don’t want to do, and team and league leadership’s job is make their place somewhere people want to be. I’m glad you’re using that growth mindset and soaking up all the managerial tips and tricks you can find. Everything we do shapes who we are, and you’ve got the recipe down for becoming a better you!

Review
 
Always like reading this meta articles that look at things like league structure and organisation and you provide some nice thoughts on that. The formattting was decent enough for being on mobile and the struggles you mentioned, I've definitely seen worse from people with better equipment.
 
8.5/10

More VHL Lessons Learned
 
Being back in the VHL and active is a thrilling experience. I'm super happy to be here, and honestly taking a break and making a new player in an unfamiliar engine is very different for me. I've gone over previously what my goals are here in the VHL and my motivation for creating again, but I wanted to quickly speak to surprising things I've learned from my recent spurt of activity here again. 
 
Pre-Draft Questionnaires 
 
In the SBDL your job as a coach is to mainly pitch players and sell them on your program. In here, you are basically immediately thrown into a draft experience, where the GM and his crew basically are best served to figure out who you are and if you are a fit to the team. Given that there are draft picks and player valuations, this creates exciting scenarios where TPE ranking and draft ranking may not match. In the SBA that only happens in the big leagues, and a lot of GMs that are promoted from HCing dont really have pre-draft questionnaire making experience. After going through this process as a draftee again, I totally now realize that I have to change up my questionnaire process. Some of the questions I got from the teams were really not that easy to answer, or even boring to answer. I'm going to definitely have to reevaluate my own questions now. I think I'll be best suited to have a pool of questions and then evaluate the draftee and send ones that I think would be interesting or answerable. I will definitely have to have them be different based on if they are a first gen or not, at the very least. I also think league only questions are boring and dont really make a team stand out. I was talking to a SBA GM recently and I realized that everything that GM does exudes culture. If I am aiming to build my own culture or identity to stand my team out, that means that I will need to exploit every opportunity that I have to talk to players. I know that free time and lack of skills are a valid excuse, but I should also look to not rely on them and push myself to do better. 
 
The other thing that's really always impressed me was delegation. Every time I come back here I'm reminded how well the minors utilize their staff. Teams have contacted me with the aGM taking the lead, some teams even have lead scouts! I've always been more of a loner type guy, and my last couple of apprentices have sadly gone inactive. I would love to go back to my commissioners and really find someone else to mentor and use more effectively. To be honest, looking back at it, I may have been too hands off on the process and not been a good enough leader. I totally realize now that I can do better and should push my AGMs and be more vocal with them. 
 
One of my new years resolutions was to be less lazy and take on a growth mindset. So far I've only done ok. There are bad days where I fall into old habits or just tell myself I'm too tired to deal with it and just dawdle. I've even done it once at work already. I'm aware of these mistakes, but I catch myself doing them but also doing nothing to fix that, which isnt great. Hopefully these broadened horizons from different leagues will help me become better. 
 
Thanks for reading! 
LefLop 
 
(Sorry for poor formatting I cant figure this mobile formatting out for my life)

You got this Kruulenstein ❤️

More VHL Lessons Learned
 
Being back in the VHL and active is a thrilling experience. I'm super happy to be here, and honestly taking a break and making a new player in an unfamiliar engine is very different for me. I've gone over previously what my goals are here in the VHL and my motivation for creating again, but I wanted to quickly speak to surprising things I've learned from my recent spurt of activity here again. 
 
Pre-Draft Questionnaires 
 
In the SBDL your job as a coach is to mainly pitch players and sell them on your program. In here, you are basically immediately thrown into a draft experience, where the GM and his crew basically are best served to figure out who you are and if you are a fit to the team. Given that there are draft picks and player valuations, this creates exciting scenarios where TPE ranking and draft ranking may not match. In the SBA that only happens in the big leagues, and a lot of GMs that are promoted from HCing dont really have pre-draft questionnaire making experience. After going through this process as a draftee again, I totally now realize that I have to change up my questionnaire process. Some of the questions I got from the teams were really not that easy to answer, or even boring to answer. I'm going to definitely have to reevaluate my own questions now. I think I'll be best suited to have a pool of questions and then evaluate the draftee and send ones that I think would be interesting or answerable. I will definitely have to have them be different based on if they are a first gen or not, at the very least. I also think league only questions are boring and dont really make a team stand out. I was talking to a SBA GM recently and I realized that everything that GM does exudes culture. If I am aiming to build my own culture or identity to stand my team out, that means that I will need to exploit every opportunity that I have to talk to players. I know that free time and lack of skills are a valid excuse, but I should also look to not rely on them and push myself to do better. 
 
The other thing that's really always impressed me was delegation. Every time I come back here I'm reminded how well the minors utilize their staff. Teams have contacted me with the aGM taking the lead, some teams even have lead scouts! I've always been more of a loner type guy, and my last couple of apprentices have sadly gone inactive. I would love to go back to my commissioners and really find someone else to mentor and use more effectively. To be honest, looking back at it, I may have been too hands off on the process and not been a good enough leader. I totally realize now that I can do better and should push my AGMs and be more vocal with them. 
 
One of my new years resolutions was to be less lazy and take on a growth mindset. So far I've only done ok. There are bad days where I fall into old habits or just tell myself I'm too tired to deal with it and just dawdle. I've even done it once at work already. I'm aware of these mistakes, but I catch myself doing them but also doing nothing to fix that, which isnt great. Hopefully these broadened horizons from different leagues will help me become better. 
 
Thanks for reading! 
LefLop 
 
(Sorry for poor formatting I cant figure this mobile formatting out for my life)

1. ITS ALWAYS GREAT TO WIN A SERIES SO HATS OFF TO THE ACES. I AM SURPRISED WE WON SO EASILY THEY ARE A TOUGH OPPONENT
2. I NEED TO PLAY BETTER. KRUUL SUCK
3. I HOPE ITS ME. BUT I LOVE THE WUMAN
4. THIS IS MY LAST SERIES SEEING THE ICE SO IM NERVOUS AF DUH
5. ALL CAPS BABY WE BE SHOUTING ALL THE TIME THEY DON"T KNOW WHY THEY HIT HIM
6. HE CHEERS ME UP WHEN I"M DOWN IN THE OTHER LEAGUES.

This seasons dispersal draft is stacked and gems are all over the place if scouts choose to dig deeper, there's all kinds of player builds too which should give the whole management a job to do while each team tries to build the next championship contender. If you are a manager looking for steals or just a player checking on the other draftees, thanks for tuning in.
 
Today I wanted to take a look at some players I would try to draft if I were a general manager next season and give a little draft profile for each of my top line selections, maybe a GM sleeping will wake up or a name nobody knew will be out there now.
 
-
C - Kolby Uelk - Previous Team: 
S76 - 16 y/o,  6'2" 194lbs - TPE107
Rank: Round 4, 39th overall 《☆☆》
Projected Stats: 21G 33A 54P 
 
Every team needs a phisical centreman who will to fight back and compete against the rough veterans every night, Uelk fits that bill perfectly, add in his offensive touch (37 points in 56 games last season) and you have a player that needs to be covered by the other team or he'll be in position to score everytime. I would probably wait until the 3rd round to draft this player but he definitely has a solid build.
-
 
- 
RW - Duncan Idaho - Previous Team:
S77 - 21 y/o, 6'3" 200lbs - TPE183
Rank: Round 1, 9th overall 《☆☆☆☆☆》
Projected Stats: 35G 43A 78P
 
We haven't seen much of Idaho other than his highlights in the junior league where he lit the lamp almost every night and the 13 games played this season playing in a depth role so the young superstar didn't get many opportunities, he only had 1 goal and didn't produce much offensively to excite the crowd but one thing the scouts noticed was his adjustment to the leagues pace early on, more ice time next season will only make him better playing with more competitive linemates and any team could benefit from his skills. Going to be a top 5 pick.
-
 
-
LW - Abe Rouqe - Previous Team:
S76 - 23 y/o, 5'5" 155lbs - TPE185
Rank: Round 1, 7th overall 《☆☆☆☆》
Projected Stats: 26G 23A 49P
 
Another fresh face with tons of upside when it comes to potential, my final top line pick is Rouqe. In just 4 games she was able to score 2 times and shot close to 3 times a game, got involved physically recording 3 hits and 2 shot blocks while maintaining a positive +/-, she's a player the coach can lean on during unenergetic times and whenever the PP get activated every game because of her speed and positive team morale. Will be a top 10 pick.
-
 
-
D - Bahram Kamkar - Previous Team:
S76 - 21 y/o, 6'5" 185lbs - TPE88 Round 5, 50 overall 《☆☆☆》
Projected Stats: 5G 42A P47
 
Kamkar has explosive skating and puck handling mixed with stay at home capabilities, he played very good for a first time blueliner (7G 24A in 72 games) and the goalie needs somebody that will have his back and he will do the job seamlessly, after taking a look at his stats I notice he's been involved in a lot of big plays too and doesn't shy away from trying something different to create an opportunity. Would draft earlier than expected!
-
 
-
D - Aurelien Moreau - Previous Team:
S77 - 18 y/o, 6'8" 240lbs - TPE92
Rank: Round 4, 45th overall 《☆☆☆》
Projected Stats: 7G 32A P39
 
Giant defender just to make sure my defense is a lock, Moreau might not have the flashiest game going but whenever he approached the puck last season the player retrieving the puck before him jumped out of the way, giving up a chance to score (14 defensive plays in 3 games) and will only get scarier with more training and shifts. Perfect middle pick if I end up getting a few strong picks so I'd wait and hope I can get a steal later in the draft.
-
 
-
G - Barry Taffe - Previous Team:
S76 - 18 y/o, 6'1" 165lbs - TPE153 《☆☆☆》
Rank: Round 2, 16th overall
Projected Stats: 34W 26L 7OT
 
Consistency is key whenever your a puckstopper and Taffe hasn't missed any training yet, it's still early in his career but the league took notice after winning 10 games as backup in just 17 total games, he's ready to be a starter and will be one of the best next season wherever he goes. Another player I'd like to get sooner than later in the draft.
-
 
We can't end this article without a few more mentions and probably the more important picks if somebody I wanted goes before I can get them in the draft, here's the players on my reserve list.
 
BENCH C - Davey Jones Jr. - Previous Team:
S77 - 16 y/o, 6'5" 225lbs - TPE86 《☆☆☆》
Rank: Round 5, 54th overall
Projected Stats: 18G 20A 38P
 
Top skill(s):
*playmaking
*faceoffs
*would draft early
 
BENCH W - Brendan Telker - Previous Team:
S77 - 18 y/o, 6'3" 190lbs - TPE163 《☆☆☆☆》
Rank: Round 2, 15th overall
Projected Stats: 28G 35A 63P
 
Top skill(s):
*skating
*puckhandling
*scoring
 
BENCH D - Barron Kruulenstien - Previous Team:
S77 - 18 y/o, 6'8" 250lbs - TPE62 《☆☆》
Rank: Round 9, 100th overall
Projected Stats: 2G 19A 21P
 
Top skill(s):
*giant defender
*62 banked and ready
 
BENCH G - Morgan Karlsson - Previous Team:  
S76 - 16 y/o, 6'2" 198lbs - TPE84 《☆☆》
Rank: Round 5, 56th overall
Projected Stats: 16W 13L 4OT
 
 Top skill(s):
*rebounding
 
TRADE FOR PICK D - Titomir Pukshuuter - Previous Team: 
S76 - 19 y/o, 6'5" 250lbs - TPE62 《☆》
Rank: Round 9, 102nd overall 
Projected Stats: 8G 18A 26P
 
Top skill(s):
*checking
 
-
That's it, a good mix of offensive threats with stone cold defending who'll give it their all to stop shots for our up and coming stud goaltender. Obviously it's not possible to get everybody but at least you get an idea of what kind of team I'd draft. Thanks for tuning in! Good luck in the draft managers and players, I'll be watching your progression 👀
 
@Telkster @Da Trifecta @Erik @LefLop @Janis @Barry @Frank @OrbitingDeath @Eagle Eye @Abe Roque @Kolby
 
1052 words

Pre Draft Live S77 Class Rankings
 
 
Rank Δ Player Name Position TPE Team Nat. Last Updated AVG CAPPED TPE Member 1 ↑ 1 Duncan Idaho RW 357 FA SM 2021-03-07 12.0 OrbitingDeath 2 ↑ 1 Asher Reinhart C 343 FA GL 2021-03-07 12.0 rjfryman 3 ↓ 2 Paul Atreides C 343 FA SM 2021-03-07 12.0 Mr_Hatter 4   Brendan Telker LW 308 FA CA 2021-03-07 12.0 Telkster 5 ↑ 1 Reylynn Reinhart D 301 FA GL 2021-03-07 12.0 Ricer13 6 ↓ 1 That Dude C 283 FA IS 2021-03-07 11.333 Cornholio 7   Druss Deathwalker RW 278 FA GB 2021-03-07 10.667 animal74 8   Zeedayno Chara D 252 FA GL 2021-03-07 12.0 Jubis 9   Aurelien Moreau D 250 MIS CA 2021-03-07 9.25 Frank 10   Rolf Fizzlebeef Jr D 237 FA CA 2021-03-07 12.0 TacticalHammer 11   Brussels Sprout C 225 MIN BY 2021-03-07 7.583 Liberty_Cabbage 12 ↑ 1 Kyle Glass RW 201 HFX US 2021-03-07 7.0 Tbeez99 13 ↓ 1 Jan Hlozek D 196 FA CZ 2021-03-07 9.5 Bojovnik 14   Miles Johnson LW 190 MIS CA 2021-03-07 8.0 Midnite 15   Hadrian D 190 HFX GB 2021-03-07 7.333 bluesfan55 16   Nixon Caldwell D 189 FA PL 2021-03-07 9.429 Kendrick 17 ↑ 1 Barron Kruulenstien D 185 MIN HR 2021-03-07 9.0 LefLop 18 ↓ 1 Trevor Wallace RW 181 MIA US 2021-03-07 9.111 LilHCorny 19 ↑ 2 Aldwin Craig LW 170 SDM US 2021-03-07 9.5 Eldredman 20   The Loch Ness Monster D 166 FA GB 2021-03-07 9.714 LuluSalesAway 21 ↓ 2 Joshooo C 166 OTT CA 2021-03-07 7.75 Joshothegreat 22   Gary Tarantino II RW 164 MIN US 2021-03-07 6.0 Garrett 23 ↑ 1 Gustislav Nasherov RW 162 FA SE 2021-03-07 8.857 Vat 24 ↓ 1 Griff Mackenzie C 157 SSK DK 2021-03-07 7.273 HoneyBadger25 25 ↑ 3 Elvis Michael D 154 MIS UZ 2021-03-07 7.7 ATST 26 ↓ 1 Joe Madison D 154 FA GL 2021-03-07 7.714 Brewins15 27 ↓ 1 Tanky D 148 SSK IL 2021-03-07 5.75 TXC 28 ↓ 1 Davey Jones Jr C 145 LVA US 2021-01-31 10.571 Da Trifecta 29 ↑ 1 Kirby Pandora D 142 FA CA 2021-03-07 7.429 PandaBearD25 30 ↑ 2 JaredN Jr D 142 FA GB 2021-03-07 5.714 jared 31 ↑ 7 creed C 142 FA US 2021-03-07 9.0 assassin6898 32 ↑ 2 Inunnguaq Kiak D 140 FA GL 2021-03-07 6.0 Grant 33 ↑ 6 Darryl McDagg LW 140 LVA CA 2021-03-07 7.143 Viperxhawks19 34 ↓ 3 Donne Taliferro D 138 FA US 2021-03-07 5.714 Wally 35 ↓ 6 Declan Wolf RW 137 FA DE 2021-03-07 6.4 MrShark 36 ↑ 4 Kuba Fleury 37 G 134 MIA SK 2021-03-07 6.857 Kuba-Fleury 37   Vasiliy Grigorev D 133 FA RU 2021-03-07 8.0 Noxalpha 38 ↑ 3 TheCHEESE RW 131 FA CA 2021-03-07 7.6 TheCHEESE 39 ↓ 6 Zeljko Ranogajec D 131 PHI AU 2021-03-07 4.25 ColeMrtz 40 ↓ 4 Nikita Wolf LW 125 FA DE 2021-03-07 7.5 MrE 41 ↓ 6 Duncan Montana LW 123 FA AF 2021-02-28 6.4 124715 42   Baldur Poulsen LW 118 FA FO 2021-03-07 6.286 GlowyGoat 43   ezechiele pierde enel D 117 FA ES 2021-03-07 4.4 Minermonkey 44 ↑ 1 Raphael Sonier D 117 FA CA 2021-03-07 4.571 raphaelsonier9815 45 ↓ 1 Jere Suominen D 115 MIA FI 2021-03-07 5.25 Fredoushka8 46   Emile Clouet LW 115 FA CA 2021-03-07 4.4 Émile Clouet 47 ↑ 1 Raihan Heavems RW 114 OTT CA 2021-03-07 4.571 RstortonYT 48 ↑ 3 Kman C 109 MIS CA 2021-03-07 3.556 Kman 49 ↑ 3 Jordan Heavens RW 108 SSK CA 2021-03-07 4.0 StormJordanYT 50 ↑ 3 Lochlan Chisholm LW 107 FA US 2021-03-07 4.0 Lochlan Chisholm 51 ↓ 2 Tyler Steel LW 106 FA US 2021-03-07 5.0 tylerwest 52 ↓ 5 Jocke Jockesson D 106 MIA SE 2021-03-07 4.5 ThomasSyster 53 ↑ 4 Russell Dixon RW 104 MIA US 2021-03-07 4.5 Rjdixon01 54 ↓ 4 Ashton Hauff C 103 MIS CA 2021-03-07 4.182 hess30 55 ↑ 3 Lorgo Pompronkimishkonov C 95 LVA CX 2021-02-21 4.0 dart 56 ↓ 1 Alex Bridges II D 94 FA TD 2021-02-21 4.8 Alex Bridges 57 ↓ 3 Jason Foote C 94 FA BY 2021-02-21 6.0 Fno 58 ↓ 2 Joseph capogna LW 93 FA US 2021-02-21 4.0 capogna 59 ↑ 10 Nicholas Mariani LW 90 FA CA 2021-03-07 4.0 Mistxh J 60 ↑ 3 Silas Meissner C 90 FA JM 2021-03-07 4.0 I dont know what I am doin 61 ↓ 2 Ryan Coleman LW 88 FA US 2021-01-31 7.0 Ryan is a king 62 ↑ 6 Sean Ramirez LW 88 FA US 2021-03-07 5.0 Kyle01 63 ↓ 3 Jace Beleran RW 88 LVA US 2021-02-28 3.111 DiddlemethisBatman 64 ↑ 10 Giles Sweeney RW 87 FA US 2021-03-07 3.833 Giles Rigel 65 ↑ 7 Mikhail Johanssen RW 86 FA SE 2021-03-07 0.333 Silver Warrior 66 ↓ 4 Michael Letcher RW 84 FA CA 2021-02-14 4.0 Letcher 67 ↓ 6 Brent Skimmer RW 84 FA IN 2021-02-21 3.0 Adrest245 68 ↓ 3 Shawn Glade IV D 83 FA US 2021-01-31 2.0 ShawnGlade 69 ↓ 5 Joe John Jefferson Junior D 83 FA CA 2021-01-31 0.0 joeg 70 ↓ 4 Burg shpoople D 82 FA US 2021-02-21 4.0 Justin Burg 71 ↑ 2 Brighton Grisby RW 82 FA US 2021-02-14 1.333 StephenCurry5806N 72 ↓ 5 Brandon Stuart LW 80 FA CA 2021-02-21 3.0 stew2310 73 ↓ 2 Harrison Park RW 78 FA GB 2021-02-07 4.0 Nikhil Chugh 74 ↓ 4 Jamal Kuminge D 78 FA FR 2021-02-07 4.0 Kuminga 75 ↑ 1 Ryan Li LW 78 FA CA 2021-03-07 0.75 Ryan Li 76 ↑ 11 Emils Pless RW 78 FA LV 2021-03-07 2.0 Emcyy 77 ↓ 2 Robbie Fenty C 74 FA BB 2021-02-14 3.0 Herradura 78 ↓ 1 Tall Virgin D 73 FA EE 2021-01-03 7.667 Retuperkele 79 ↑ 6 JF Roch LW 72 FA CA 2021-02-07 0.0 Jfr 80 ↑ 2 Apollo RW 72 FA ET 2021-01-31 4.0 SexyWrench 81   Gerry Bandusky D 72 FA BQ 2021-02-07 4.0 Peacefulrioter 82 ↑ 2 Bryn Yrwy C 72 FA GB 2021-02-14 1.333 dylanjj37 83   Nick Weston G 72 FA CA 2021-02-07 0.0 Nick the Goalie 84 ↓ 5 Tim Johnson LW 72 FA CA 2021-02-07 2.0 djpeterson 85 ↓ 7 Two Madd RW 72 FA CA 2021-01-31 4.0 Buffalo Sabres 86 ↓ 6 Ross LW 72 FA US 2021-02-07 0.0 Travis43 87 ↓ 1 Steve Inactivo D 72 FA AX 2021-01-31 3.5 Retuperkele 88 ↑ 1 The Tixter D 67 OTT GB 2020-12-27 10.5 Tixter 89 ↓ 1 Darragh Mclennan LW 67 FA IE 2021-01-24 0.0 TheAnt 90 ↑ 1 Chris Houston RW 66 FA US 2021-01-24 4.0 Shady5416 91 ↓ 1 Wade Matthews LW 66 FA CA 2021-01-24 4.0 wa_de 92   Liam R D 66 FA CA 2021-01-31 0.0 Liam 93 ↑ 2 Rirando Jones G 66 FA CA 2021-01-17 4.5 Pens 94 ↓ 1 Keegan Lowe D 66 FA CA 2021-01-31 0.0 jpjlovesla 95 ↓ 1 Slovec Fread LW 66 FA AL 2021-01-31 0.0 ZmoneY 96   Nico di Angelo C 66 FA AU 2021-01-31 0.0 Nico 97   Brodie English C 66 FA CA 2021-01-24 4.0 Brodie English 98 ↑ 1 Rade Eon D 63 FA CD 2020-12-27 8.5 i_eat_tpe 99 ↓ 1 One Thumb Jeffersonian D 63 FA SJ 2021-01-24 2.0 MGreenie 100 ↑ 1 Pirto Gloobas LW 62 FA CH 2021-01-24 0.0 Froggo 101 ↑ 1 The Jester LW 62 FA CA 2021-01-24 0.0 Deadlyjester 102 ↓ 2 Jack Minnock C 62 FA US 2021-01-24 0.0 JackAce91 103 ↑ 7 Julia Ruppert RW 60 FA US 2021-01-24 0.0 Julia Ruppert 104 ↓ 1 Jonathan Martin RW 60 FA US 2021-01-24 0.0 Jonmartin968 105 ↓ 1 Xavier Lost RW 60 FA KZ 2021-01-24 0.0 ISLANDERSFAN 106 ↑ 3 David Bach LW 60 OTT DE 2021-02-07 4.0 YtownX29 107   Thomas Berad C 60 FA CA 2021-01-17 4.0 Tommo14 108 ↓ 2 Vladimir RW 60 FA RU 2021-01-24 0.0 Big D 109 ↓ 1 Anthony DeSalvo C 60 FA US 2021-01-24 0.0 Deli87 110 ↓ 5 Jimmy RichMan LW 60 FA CA 2021-01-24 0.0 Max Laberge 111   Justin Case D 60 FA CA 2021-01-24 0.0 Jonah Hiebert 112   Yuri Bure D 56 FA RU 2021-01-17 0.0 Nexus 113   Waldorf Tassletoff RW 56 OTT US 2021-01-17 0.0 Rhenry707 114   Matty Ice LW 55 FA US 2021-01-31 0.0 Mattyice011 115 ↑ 8 Dorsal Finn Jr C 54 FA US 2021-01-17 0.0 TheFinnFTW 116   Etienne allaire C 54 FA CA 2021-01-17 0.0 Chevalier715 117 ↑ 4 Tyler Huard C 54 FA CA 2021-01-17 0.0 Hudogg 118 ↑ 2 Travis Stevenson LW 54 FA US 2021-01-17 0.0 travytravy 119   Ethan Heming LW 54 FA DE 2021-01-17 0.0 TyingGalaxy9 120 ↑ 4 AJ Moshyedi C 54 OTT US 2021-01-10 4.0 amosh2003 121 ↓ 4 Hart Thomas Nullet D 54 FA US 2021-01-10 4.0 Tinmosquito1726 122   Gints Sturmanis C 54 FA LV 2021-01-17 0.0 Gints 123 ↓ 5 Zayn Malik RW 54 FA GB 2021-01-17 0.0 kendall 124 ↓ 9 kyle G 54 FA US 2021-01-17 0.0 Kannk21 125 ↑ 1 Kow Terdds RW 50 FA US 2021-01-24 4.667 Alex Bridges 126 ↓ 1 Hobby Bull LW 50 FA US 2021-01-10 0.0 3lewsers 127   Jan Murin RW 48 FA SK 2021-01-03 4.0 johan99 128 ↑ 1 Rylan Alberts D 48 FA CA 2021-01-10 0.0 RylanKonowalchuk 129 ↑ 1 Brayden Barzal C 48 FA CA 2021-01-03 4.0 Brayden7929 130 ↑ 1 Eqqsnuizitine Buble Schwinslow C 48 FA KP 2021-01-10 0.0 Guriinwoodo 131 ↓ 3 Ronnie Tubs McFadden D 48 FA IE 2021-01-10 0.0 Daytona_Thrasher 132   Olle VanDer Brussche D 47 FA BE 2021-01-03 0.0 Bobby Bummhole 133   Dawson Haines C 44 FA CA 2021-01-03 0.0 Dhaines98 134 ↑ 5 Josh Samson LW 42 FA CA 2021-01-03 0.0 Sky Master 135   Spaceman Spiff D 42 LVA SE 2020-12-20 4.0 Krazko 136 ↓ 2 Devan Peace C 42 FA CA 2021-01-03 0.0 Rookie 137 ↓ 1 Alexandre Jaru RW 42 FA DE 2021-01-03 0.0 Pickleb0b 138 ↓ 1 Drew Storm LW 42 FA US 2021-01-03 0.0 kendallthegrady 139 ↓ 1 Joshua chambers RW 42 FA CA 2021-01-03 0.0 Sledgestar28 140 ↑ 1 Christian D 38 FA CA 2020-12-27 0.0 Cthibod 141 ↓ 1 Franzed LW 38 FA CA 2020-12-27 0.0 Franzinator 142 ↑ 1 Paper Press D 36 FA BH 2020-12-20 4.0 Broski_Man 143 ↑ 1 Dusty Macgrizzle D 36 FA CA 2020-12-27 0.0 Jpizza420 144 ↓ 2 Austinbrooker68 LW 36 FA CA 2021-01-10 2.0 Brooker68
 
Includes all players entering the S77 VHL Draft who have added TPE to their player. Once your player has had an update approved by updaters that puts you over 30 TPE, you'll be added to the rankings
Last Update Mar 12
 
 
 

I'll get the band prepared in your honor! 
 
Thank you AL! Going out on my own was always the way to go haha, now I can just dream for a bright future. Good luck to you AL, show the VHLM what you got! 
Always a pleasure to have you, one hell of a pick I'll still never regret trading for. ❤️ 
 
Thanks Boose, you know where to find me ❤️ + I'm still here
 
Thanks Toast! We've been doing it a long...long time, you ain't wrong there haha. I still have that passion for it, insanely enough! 
 
Not leaving the league I'll still be here to chat I promise! 
 
I can't escape you Lef, I can't! LOL jkjk, I know where you find you! 

But in all seriousness, I just want to start off by saying thank you, to every single person who put their faith in me over the last year and a bit to lead a team in the VHLM. I was very blessed to get a team, as my name wasn’t great around the league after a super long hiatus, and I know I pushed a lot of people’s buttons along the way, it wasn’t until recently, the last season or two of my GMing career that I changed my ways to showcase how I can truly be, and my personality, etc.
 
So how did we get here? Well… let’s hop back to the end of the S65 season when the VHLM commissioners (at the time) Bana & D_A made the decision after league approval for expansion. At the time I was an AGM with Josh in Yukon and had been for going on two seasons. I’m not sure if Josh ever mentioned my name when they were looking for GMs but I put my name in the hat, and instantly messaged D_A since I was familiar with him and had a super long chat. One thing led to another, and then it was finally announced that there were 3 teams joining the league, Mexico, San Diego and Mississauga. Mexico and Mississauga were filled and I remember laughing when D_A told me “no one likes San Diego’s logo, it’s their third choice for a team, would you be okay with them?”. I was just grateful to be getting a team, so absolutely I took it. Fast forward a bit more, and we ended up at the expansion draft.
 
EXPANSION DRAFT:
2nd round pick (LVA) – turned into Birdman (Samuel Sparrow, 183 TPE IA defender, retired)
3rd round pick (YUK) – turned into Big_Mac (Andrei Mikhailov, 195 TPE IA forward, retired)
4th round pick S67 (OTT) – will be mentioned in the S67 breakdown
 
Overall, that season we had two guys who made competing possible, based on all of our other picks we had gathered through trades and such, it seemed pretty promising. After the initial expansion, I was a part of the next 9 drafts, which were amazing, and I just want to thank…a lot of people for making it memorable, so here comes the tags (sorry!).
 
S66 Draft:
Phil Marleau @Phil 
Edgar Tannahill @gregreg
Greg Eagles @Greg_Di
Samuel Sparrow @Birdman
Andrei Mikhailov @Big Mac
Dean Clarke @Kyle
Scotty BigShotty @FerdaJets
Ludvig Sederstrom @aleks
 
This was the first ever team iced for San Diego. @Phil was the first ever Marlins selection with the 5th overall pick and made history with the franchise and the league as such. This inaugural team would finish 7th in the league (no divisions yet) with 84 points and a record of 40-28-4 and 84 points to our name. We would go on to be swept in the quarter finals by the Halifax 21st but nevertheless, we made the playoffs in our first season and from this crop, 6 would make it to the VHL, a very high retainment rate long-term. 
 
S67 Draft: 
NO ONE
 
Yeah so...year two was kind of nuts. After decided to just go balls to the wall and draft everyone in our inaugural year, we ended up having 0 picks in the S67 draft. Now, most people thought to count this team out, but we were far from it. Instead, we would again finish in the 7th spot in the league (still no divisions) with a record of 26-38-8 and 60 points. We would however be swept again in the quarter finals, this time by the Philadelphia Reapers. From this roster, a total of 7 players would make it to the VHL, and despite no draft picks, that was a huge outcome for the team, as this means it was all through recruiting. 
 
S68 Draft: 
Chad Gilbert @Fire_In_Babylon
Will Clarke @Will
Marcus Nygren @Devise
Raleigh Ritchie @DangerGolding
Daldo @Harpskii
King Kruul @LefLop
Richard Fitzwell @Tomato Soup
 
A fairly deep draft left San Diego poised and ready to compete for the third straight year in a row. While it wasn't going to be easy, San Diego did their best to come together and in doing so, managed to once again clinch a playoff birth. For the third straight season, they would finish 7th in the league, a record of 38-31-3 and 79 points. Just like deja-vu, the team would be knocked out again in the quarter finals, but this time they actually won 2 games, going out in 6 to the Las Vegas Aces. Every single pick from this draft class would move on to the VHL level in some degree, thus making it the best recruiting/draft class San Diego has ever had. 
 
S69 Draft: 
NO ONE
 
So seemingly like a pattern, every other year thus far, we've drafted no one. But did we learn from the mistake of counting out San Diego despite no draft? Noooo, we were once again poised to suck and written off by many... instead, we'd make the playoffs again. Unfortunately the index for the regular season is broken, and the portal doesn't go back this far, but I can say we got the 6th seed in the playoffs. Unfortunately again, for the fourth straight year, we'd be eliminated in the quarter finals, this time only in 5 games to the Mexico City Kings. The team would have an undisclosed amount of players go to the VHL (fuck the broken index lol). 
 
S70 Draft: 
Kyl Oferson @Nykonax
Roque Davis @Josh
Thomas Landry II @Doomsday
Ike Bennett @Caboose30
JaredN @jared
Nikita Kulikovich @Lockdown Defense
Dax Lewis (user no longer exists) 
 
This draft was super top-heavy, and it was no surprise that San Diego once again wanted to compete, and compete we did. This was our best season thus far, 5 seasons in and we have now amassed a 2nd place finish in the league (still... no divisions lol) with a record of 58-10-4 and 104 points. The team finally made it out of the quarterfinals with a sweep to Yukon but sadly were sent packing by Ottawa Lynx who eventually lost the cup to Minnesota. Every single player on this list made it to the VHL, most of them have since retired and recreated. 
 
S71 Draft: 
Zamboni Driver (Tape-to-Tape)
Jungkok @tfong
 
Yeah, on the forefront of this draft...and this season, I wish I could forget it haha. Not for the team, just for all the drama and shit I caused and just the shit in general, was not a fun a season for me, I was half-tempted just to leave the team cause I didn't wanna deal with the drama, but alas here we are. The team added a ton of huge pieces via trades and waivers and as such, actually had a pretty damn good year, finishing 6th in the league (3rd in their division!) with a record of 42-28-2 and 86 points. The team would once again go to the semi finals, this time being eliminated by the Ottawa Lynx who would actually go on to win the cup finally. From this crop, 4 players would go on to make it to the VHL. 
 
S72 Draft: 
NO ONE
 
So that trend seems to continue, draft a lot of players, draft a few players, draft no players. Now, it's worked out in the past right so you'd think "oh, IR has this, no big deal". WRONG. This truly was a down year for us as we finished 11th in the league (last in the division) with a record of 10-60-2 and 22 points, this was an all-time low for the team and the first time we did not qualify for the playoffs. No one from this team would go on to make a VHL team. 
 
S73 Draft: 
John Merrick @Steve
John LeClair II @flyersfan1453
Ryan Schwarz @Enorama
Doug Dimmadome @Esso2264
Lucifer Olivier Leveque @InstantRockstar
Lester Green @Smarch
Bjorn Wilhelm von Luxembourg @d3vilsfire
Calvin Harvey (MrPenguin)
Nathaniel N @NathanN
Logan Hoffman @nickthe00
 
Some steals in this draft really made the Marlins this year super deep. One of the strongest teams since S70 in my personal opinion and just an excellent crop of guys to have in the locker room. The team would end up finishing 5th in the league (2nd in division) with a record of 51-19-2 and 104 points. Once again the team would make it to the semi finals, but lose to the Miami Marauders. Every single player from the draft this year made it to the VHL. 
 
S74 Draft: 
NO ONE
 
With this draft, we didn't pick anyone. As we've seen in the past, this was either going to go good...or bad. And unfortunately, it went quite bad. While we had some excellent waiver pickups, the lack of pick-ups really ended up hurting us and because of that, we had our worse season yet... finishing 11th place (last in division) with a record of 9-58-5 and 23 points. For obvious reasons again, we did not make the playoffs and due to our team being mainly recruits and IA's, we had no one go up to the VHL. 
 
S75 Draft: 
Cowboy Prout @Cowboy
Scotty Kaberle @fromtheinside
Nero Endrizzi @TurnDaddy
Red Lite @Tate
Nikolas DAndrea @Nikdandrea34
Frank Funk Jr @Rayzor_7
Gunnar Odinsson @BOOM
Kaladin Kvothe @DangerGolding
Phil The Rock Johnson @Phil
Jaroslav Petr
Patrik Ipsen @BiPsen
 
And here we are...present day. This draft...was the deepest I've seen in 10 seasons, deeper than the S68 draft which I felt was quite deep with talent. Tag on that we added some amazing key waivers in @Mr_Hatterand @OrbitingDeath and we had one of the most solid on-ice teams at least in my mind. There was a ton of terrifying teams this season as proven with Mexico and Philadelphia, that being said we still managed to end up 3rd in the league (2nd in division) with a record of 51-19-2 and 104 points. Unfortunately the pipe dream of winning a cup was once again destroyed when Philadelphia knocked us out in the semi's once again. 9 of my players will appear in the VHL next season. 
 
So to recap...
8 playoff appearances in 10 seasons 
0 cups. 
38 VHL produced players (retainment of 96% players who crossed through SDM)
 
And why am I telling you this? Well... as the title says, the run has finally come to an end, and this is indeed my final curtain call as the San Diego Marlins GM. After 10 long seasons, I am officially stepping down as the GM. I want to again thank everyone who made this dream possible, I want to especially thank every single amazing player who came into our LR and made it what it was season after season, and most importantly I want to thank the VHL for giving me a chance to be a GM in the M, for believing in me even when I was a little shit, and for allowing me to continue to keep this place going by retaining our damn fine members. 
 
I can only hope the future is bright here, but for now, catch LOL making jokes on the ice with the Seattle Bears for the foreseeable future. 
 
Rockstar...out! 
 

VHLM Playoffs: First Round Recap
 

By fyrefly
 
 
It's playoff time in the VHLM! The top eight teams of the regular season faced off for the first round of the VHLM playoffs. The playoffs in the M are a time for capped players to give their last hurrah in the minors before heading up to the big leagues, and for freshly signed potential draftees to show off their skills before the draft. Either way, it's an exciting time. And with the Founders' Cup on the line, tensions are high and players are willing to give whatever it takes!
 
 
       In this recap, I'll be summarizing each series that has been played. Watch for the spotlight on star players and predictions for the next few rounds. 
 
 
Series 1: Mexico City Kings(1st seed) vs. Halifax 21st(8th seed)
Notable Performances: Dolant Fertitta(HFX), Javad Kamkar(HFX), Justin Lose(MEX), King Kruul(MEX)
This was one series that was expected to go by fast. The Kings blitzed the M in the regular season, capturing the top record with an astonishing 54 wins. But surprisingly, the 21st put up a fight. Nothing too much, only enough to stretch the series to 5 games. But enough to let everybody else in the league know that the Kings aren't invincible. But they sure are close. Justin Lose @youloser1337 was an absolute force for the Kings, putting up 4 goals and 8 points in those 5 games. Jakob Sosa @TMGSosa also contributed offensively, notching 5 assists and 7 points. From the back end, King Kruul @LefLop kept his fruitful career fruitful with 6 assists and 7 points, enough to tie for first among defenceman scoring. And then there's goaltender Markus Emerson Jr. @Xflexz, who's a rock of a goalie in between the pipes with a .872 save percentage and a 3.2 goals against average.
The 21st were a tyrant of a team last season, but experienced a crazy insane upset by the hands of the eventual champs Miami Marauders. This year, they had a much weaker team, but they managed to take a game in this series. They were largely riding the performance of superstar and shoo-in for MVP Dolant Fertitta @Dolant, who lead the playoffs in points somehow. Javad Kamker @Parriyah9374 was also a massive contributor from the blueline with five assist and six points. Poor Mike Sterling @SilverMike, who has to face the loaded Mexico offense with such a lackluster defense. He has a depressing 5.2 goals against average. Halifax also doesn't look to have the strongest team next year, as they don't have a first round pick.
Series score: 4-1 Mexico
 
 
Series 2: Philadelphia Reapers(2nd seed) vs. Yukon Rush(7th seed)
Notable Performances: Jivere Zolnek(PHI), Jacob Carson(PHI), Tom Eagles(PHI), The great(YUK)
This was another series involving a top regular season team and a team that barely made the playoffs that was supposed to go by very fast. And unlike the prior mentioned series, it did. The Reapers executed a perfect 4-0 sweep, eliminating the Rush. A couple of top VHL draft prospects did extremely well in this series, namely Jivere Zolnek @Sixersfan549 and Tom Eagles @Greg_Di. Zolnek, after an underwhelming regular season of only 13 points, exploded against the Rush for 3 goals and 7 points in only 4 games. Eagles, on the other hand, continued what he had gotten done in the regular season. He translated his amazing 64 points into 6 points in the first round. Also worth mentioning is goaltender Jacob Carson @jacobcarson877, who had an incredible .946 save percentage and 1.25 goals against average. Pekko Viitanen @Xdjk93 also stunned the Rush with 5 assists in the series.
The Yukon Rush, in a sense, played as was expected of a team who sold at the deadline and squeaked into the playoffs. They had no real stars to rely on for points, as they traded them all away for futures. But they managed to keep the Reapers close in all but 2 of the games they played. The only really performances worth mentioning are The great @Jake Sumner, who scored 2 goals and has an astonishing 40% shooting percentage. Other than that, no one really made a difference as the Reapers changed the Rush's championship chances to 0.
Series Score: 4-0 Philadelphia
 
 
Series 3: San Diego Marlins(3rd seed) vs. Miami Marauders(6th seed)
Notable Performances: Gunnar Odinsson(SDM), Michael Olson(SDM), Nero Endrizzi(SDM), Ryan Ryker(MIA)
Since the seeds were closer for this series, it was more than expected to be close. Miami was a decent team heading into this playoffs. But the Marlins sure proved they were the stronger team. They went all out at the deadline, and reaped necessary rewards for a long playoff run. They picked up a bunch of waiver players to fill their depth spots, and still had room for stars to fill the top spots. Some of their guys who particularly shone during this series were top VHL draft prospect Gunnar Odinsson @BOOM, who had to have raised his stock with his 6 assists and 7 points from the back end. Goaltender Michael Olson @MSO94 also made a massive difference, with a .934 save percentage and a 1.25 GAA, effectively shutting down the Miami offense. Nero Endrizzi @TurnDaddy, a player the Marlins picked up in the dispersal draft last season, also put his skills on display with 2 goals and 6 points in the series. A lot of Marlins will be heading up next season, and the Marlins used a lot of their futures acquiring all that talent, so we can expect a basement finish next season.
As I said before, the Marauders had a promising squad heading into the postseason, grabbing the 6th seed in the playoffs and securing a slightly weaker matchup in the first round. Unfortunately, it didn't work out that way. Nevertheless, they had some decent performances from some of their players. Ryan Ryker @Jayrad28 was a beast throughout the series, picking up 3 assists, 10 hits, and 3 blocked shots. Phoenix Dawson @Toastalso impressed, with 2 goals and a 33.3% shooting percentage. He will also be among the top VHL prospects. Finally, there's my old friend Cabe McJake @RedSus, who, with a goal and an assist, couldn't manage to carry the Marauders to victory. Either way, a successful season for Miami. Unfortunately, they spent a lot of their picks at the deadline, so they should sink into mediocrity for next season.
Series Score: 4-0 San Diego
 
 
Series 4: Saskatoon Wild(4th seed) vs. Las Vegas Aces(5th seed)
Notable Performances: Lenny Sanderson(SSK), Battre Sandstrom(SSK), Jordan Tate(LVA), Linus Zetterstrom(LVA)
Well, this one had a wild finish, didn't it? Game seven OT. That doesn't happen often. And what a series. The Aces take the 3-1 lead, but the Wild come roaring back and force the final game. But the Aces came up big. Linus Zetterstrom @Ledge_and_Dairy was the man with the winner, and he notched 7 assists and 9 points in those 7 games. Also incredible was the performance of Jordan Tate @Aye my name jeff, who got 11 points and leads the playoffs in scoring right now. He and fellow deadline pickup Sheldon Juniper @fyrefly along with linemate Connor Sim @SimmerDown99 combined for 28 points in the series. Matt thunder @Matt thunder also got a point per game in the series. Overall, the Aces' deadline acquisitions made the difference for them this series. They have a bunch of clutch players that should really help in their next round series against Mexico. 
The Saksatoon Wild are a playoff team, and probably a second round caliber team. But they couldn't manage to complete the comeback and knock off the Aces one last time. But they played a hell of a good series. Notably, rookie and top draft prospect Lenny Sanderson @Gally, who must have raised his draft stock with his 5 goals and 10 points. Battre Sandstrom @Acydburn , who is projected to go second overall in the VHL draft, also shone as an offensive defenceman, with 6 assists and 9 points. Other that, Vivek Weiner @coochiman got an assist per game plus a goal for 8 points. Although the Wild don't look to be strong next season, they had a really good team this season and should be proud. 
 
 
 
This concludes the series for round one of the VHLM playoffs. For the next segment, I'll give you the next round of series plus predictions for who will win. 
 
 
Series 5: Mexico City Kings(1st seed) vs. Las Vegas Aces(5th seed)
The Aces are now the underdog as they take on the potentially unstoppable Kings. The Kings will try to ride their firepower and depth that got them the best regular season record, while the Aces hope their deadline pickups and waiver players, as well as the game seven clutch that got them past the Wild, will get them over top of the Kings and onto the finals. The Kings were eliminated in the first round last season, so they're looking for a much deeper playoff run this year. The Aces were one of the top teams last season, but they were beat out in the semis by the waiver warrior Miami Marauders. For this matchup, even with my biased opinion, I feel the Kings have a team that is nearly invincible this year. I think the Aces will take them to six games, and give them a run for their money. But the talent and depth of the Kings is hard to match.
Prediction: 4-2 Mexico
 
 
Series 6: Philadelphia Reapers(2nd seed) vs. San Diego Marlins(3rd seed)
This one I'm sure I cannot accurately predict. These two squads are so evenly matched it'd be hard to put one ahead of the other. The Reapers were a borderline playoff team last year, but were nudged out by the eventual champions Marauders in the final games of the regular season. The Marlins, on the other hand, were a basement team last season, losing out only to the lowly Minnesota Storm for bottom of the standings. They were, however, able to pick up the top two picks of the draft and select two very good players. Both teams acquired a truckload of talented players through the draft and trades, and it will be a long, tough series. But I think the sheer amount of capped players of the Reapers wil ultimately push them over the top. But not without a fight.
Prediction: 4-3 Philadelphia
 
 
 
 
El Finale: Mexico City Kings vs. Philadelphia Reapers
These two teams were in the exact same situation as each other last year. They are in the exact same situation as each other this year, too. The Founders' Cup Finals. Against each other. It will be a battle of two teams of roughly the same skill, roughly the same depth. It will be a nail-biter, I'll guarantee you that. But looking at their rosters, and their success in these playoffs so far, I have chosen a winner. And if I can figure out how to hide a result, it'll appear down there ⬇️
 
 
That concludes my recap and predictions for the S75 VHLM Founders' Cup playoffs. For the sake of honesty, I fully expect the Philadelphia Reapers to fulfil my prophecy and win the cup. This has been fun, and I wish all contestants hope, but especially the Aces. I hope we can break my prediction and bring the Cup back to it's rightful home, Sin City! Good luck to all, and we'll see you in another month or so because this media spot is so damn long I can claim it for that long! Either way, I hope you enjoyed this. Excuse me for making this final paragraph kind of awkward, but this is how I'm filling the gap to get to 2,000 words. 
 
I need five more words. 
 
 
 
2,000 words on the dot. Claiming this for four weeks. 
 

GG and congratulations to @Spartan and the Las Vegas Aces on a hell of a series! It could not have come down to the wire any more than it did, and it's a testament to how good both squads were. Go get that Cup!
 
It's not the ending we wanted, Sasky, but I couldn't be prouder of you for never giving up and fighting until the end. It was a privilege to call each of you one of my players. 

Vhlm journeyman

Enjoy your new player @LefLop

Hahaha thank you for believing in my foul record dream

I probably wouldn't have come back to the VHL if it wasn't for the locker rooms. Maybe I've been in the wrong locker rooms my entire life, but the VHL locker rooms have been amazing, and some of the best locker rooms I've been in. To be fair, I've probably only been in two of the best SBDL locker rooms, and I'm not really involved in SBA and EFL locker rooms, but seriously, the VHL minor locker rooms will be some of the things that I'll remember the most. I've commented before on how I've failed at building a good locker room in my SBA and SBDL GMing career, and I think that's really hurt me as a coach and as a GM. I know that this is something that I need to fix, but for now, I'm not in the good mental space or have the tools needed to fix that. For sure, I definitely need to fix it, and for sure, it's on the to do list, but I'm still grabbing the tools I need to tackle that and take care of the bigger needs in my life. With that said, the big advantage that I really like is that there are ton of SBA players in my locker. I know a lot of the people and that helps me stay active. The number of players in VHL teams really helps - in SBA there's really only like 8 spots on a team, and its rare to fill them all with active players. Sure, I can add in fillers, but there's something nice about having everyone having their main player (or in this case, their only player) in the minor leagues, so there's a lot of shared experiences. I've also felt that every single discord here is run by people who actually know how to use discords. I'm basically terrible with discord permissions and channel set up and bot set up, so that's something that I'll probably have to ask for help for soon, or learn myself. I also think it's possibly selection bias. I've been very blessed to have some great teams that I've been on, and that I've had great relationships with all of the GMs and some of the aGMs. Knowing that I can relate and talk to them always is a good fallback. There is a good chance that I'm not as great at that as I should be on my end. I'm sure that I can improve there, but if I'm looking at myself critically, I'm not sure if I come off as approachable. Anyway, long story short, I love VHL locker rooms. They are amazing, and one of the best experiences I've had. 

Hi everyone (removing members tag so people aren't pinged twice), with that confirmation, the league has surpassed all 3 milestones for total contributions to the 2020 Holiday Charity Drive. Thank you to everyone who has contributed! If you haven't donated yet, the donation drive will continue through the 20th, and all donations through the league paypal will be added to the amounts we split among Food Banks Canada and Feeding America, while you will be eligible to claim the personal donation rewards, if you haven't already.
 
All Members may now claim the following community rewards*:
 
$500 Community Donations: 2 Uncapped TPE for Everyone
$1000 Community Donations: 4 Uncapped TPE for Everyone
$2000 Community Donations: PT Doubles Week for Everyone
 
*Must be claimed on a player created on, or before, December 25th, 2020.
 
Thank you again to everyone for being so generous!

I probably wouldn't have come back to the VHL if it wasn't for the locker rooms. Maybe I've been in the wrong locker rooms my entire life, but the VHL locker rooms have been amazing, and some of the best locker rooms I've been in. To be fair, I've probably only been in two of the best SBDL locker rooms, and I'm not really involved in SBA and EFL locker rooms, but seriously, the VHL minor locker rooms will be some of the things that I'll remember the most. I've commented before on how I've failed at building a good locker room in my SBA and SBDL GMing career, and I think that's really hurt me as a coach and as a GM. I know that this is something that I need to fix, but for now, I'm not in the good mental space or have the tools needed to fix that. For sure, I definitely need to fix it, and for sure, it's on the to do list, but I'm still grabbing the tools I need to tackle that and take care of the bigger needs in my life. With that said, the big advantage that I really like is that there are ton of SBA players in my locker. I know a lot of the people and that helps me stay active. The number of players in VHL teams really helps - in SBA there's really only like 8 spots on a team, and its rare to fill them all with active players. Sure, I can add in fillers, but there's something nice about having everyone having their main player (or in this case, their only player) in the minor leagues, so there's a lot of shared experiences. I've also felt that every single discord here is run by people who actually know how to use discords. I'm basically terrible with discord permissions and channel set up and bot set up, so that's something that I'll probably have to ask for help for soon, or learn myself. I also think it's possibly selection bias. I've been very blessed to have some great teams that I've been on, and that I've had great relationships with all of the GMs and some of the aGMs. Knowing that I can relate and talk to them always is a good fallback. There is a good chance that I'm not as great at that as I should be on my end. I'm sure that I can improve there, but if I'm looking at myself critically, I'm not sure if I come off as approachable. Anyway, long story short, I love VHL locker rooms. They are amazing, and one of the best experiences I've had. 

If you would like to keep track of your team's week by week stats (other than GAA and SH%) make sure to check out the Google Sheets document to see that information.
 
To look at last week's winners, click here!
 
---
Week 4 in the VHLM S75 has come to an end. We are now starting to see where most teams will find themselves at the end of the season. Changes in the standings are slowing down, but we saw an incredible number of trades this week, some of which were very surprising to many around the league. As teams see the end of the season approaching they seem to be making changes (some drastic) that they hope will give them some edge in the S75 playoffs.
 
League standings have changed a bit, but not much. Saskatoon and San Diego traded places just like last week, as did Miami and Las Vegas. Other than that, everyone else stayed in place by the end of the week.
 
Just like last week, each team will have an Offensive Star, Defensive Star, and some awards. This is based on weekly performance, not current team or league leaders. This week we've added in some overviews for each team's starting goaltender for the week.
 
Many have asked that I highlight 1 Offensive Star and 1 Defensive Star for the entire league each week. I'm going to leave that up to all of you with a poll!
After reading through, select who you think the Offensive and Defensive star of the league should be for the week! I will report the winner in next week's VHLM Player Highlights!
 
Last week we had 44 people vote for the Offensive and Defensive Stars of the Week! Thank you to everyone who voted!
We wish to congratulate these two individuals who the community selected as the stars!
The Week 3 VHLM Offensive Star is Kevin Wu @kevinscix
The Week 3 VHLM Defensive Star is Matt thunder @Matt thunder
 
Some of you suggested that I switch up the awards, however I'm going to stick with the awards from last week for each team. HOWEVER, if you think of an award that a player deserves to get make sure you tag them in the comments with what that award is. Don't forget to include why they get it!
*Teams are presented in order of League Overall Standing
 
Mexico City Kings (43-12-5) 
GM - @Hylands AGM - @rory
Offensive Star - Mexico City has a number of top offensive players, but one of them had low PIMs this week and captured 2 GW goals. This player was able to nab 8 goals and serve up 10 assists for 18 points this week. Congratulations to Magnus Verlander @Jbeezy76!
 
Defensive Star - There was one defender this week from the Kings who was impressive on all ends of the ice. With 16 points, 26 hits and even 20 SB, this defender fought hard to keep Mexico City ahead of Philadelphia. We must give it to Kevin Wu @kevinscix!
 
Goalie Overview - Staring in every game this week for Mexico City, Markus Emerson Jr @Xflexz had a fairly decent week. Facing 376 shots, he came out with only a 0878 SV%. While he may not be the key to victory for Mexico City, his work in the net is certainly helping. What seems to be hurting Emerson Jr the most is that he may be "okay" in most areas but not "outstanding" in at least some. The key to his potential success in the VHL will come if he finds an area to focus on.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Hulk Hogan Jr @Beaviss with 23 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Mando Blatsyuk @Hblatsyuk with 26 PIM
Snow Plow Award - King Kruul @LefLop with 39 Hits
 
Philadelphia Reapers (42-13-4)
GM - @DMaximus AGM - @dariusmarimotoman
Offensive Star - Leading the Reapers this week with 22 points, this player has clearly lead their team forward in the right direction. We are glad to award this week's Offensive Star in Philadelphia to Robert Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito
 
Defensive Star - There were a couple of defensive players in Philadelphia this week that are worthy of being the Defensive Star, but we must go with one! This defender had 14 points for the week, 14 hits, and even blocked 13 shots. Congratulations to Tom Eagles @Greg_Di!
 
Goalie Overview - Jacob Carson @jacobcarson877 started 14 of the 16 games for Philadelphia this week. Carson faced 382 shots and had a SV% of .903 for the week!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Robin Galante Nilsson @RomanesEuntDomus with 22 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Jolly Greene Giant @DoktorFunk with 30 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Jolly Greene Giant @DoktorFunk with 53 Hits
 
 
San Diego Marlins (42-15-2)(up 1)
GM - @InstantRockstar AGM - @IamMOOSE
Offensive Star - The Marlins had an incredible Offensive week! 3 players had more than 30 points this week, one of them being a defensive player. There were two offensive players though that were close in numbers. However, we've decided to give this week's Offensive Star for the Marlins to Red Lite @Tate! Red Lite not only had 16 goals and 16 assists, but he even blocked 8 shots and had an impressive 6 game winning goals!
 
Defensive Star - One defender in San Diego had an incredible week! Not only did this defender serve up 27 assists and earn 8 goals, but they also blocked 25 shots as well. This defender was impressive this week, that's for sure. Congratulations to Scotty Kaberle @fromtheinside
 
Goalie Overview - As of right now, Michael Olson @MSO94 is San Diego's only goaltender, and I'm sure they are fine with that. Olson only lost 1 game this week, earned another shutout, faced 401 shots and only gave up 38 goals. This week, Olson had a SV% of .905! It's easy to say that Olson is on fire in San Diego!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Scotty Kaberle @fromtheinside with 25 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Frank Funk Jr @Rayzor_7 with 26 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Frank Funk Jr @Rayzor_7 with 48 Hits
 
Saskatoon Wild (40-16-4)  (down 1)
GM - @Doomsday AGM - @a_Ferk
Offensive Star - This week we had one forward who deserves to be called the Offensive Star. Lighting the lamp 12 times and only having 4 PIM in 16 games, we HAVE to give it to Florent Vericel @dart!
 
Defensive Star - The defender that we have gone with this week was NOT the highest point earner as far as defenders go this week. However, this defender was incredibly active in the defensive zone of the ice, blocking 33 shots on goal. While only having 8 goals and 2 assists, 3 of those goals were game winners, so we decided to select Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko!
 
Goalie Overview - Starting in 15 of 16 games this week, Michael Fletcher had a decent week between the pipes. Losing only 5 games, Fletcher faced 391 shots. However, his SV% of .875 for the week isn't really impressive. But, with 10 wins we're sure Saskatoon isn't complaining too much!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko with 33 SB 
Rule Breaker Award - Logan Moore @drewowo with 36 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Logan Moore @drewowo with 70 Hits

 
Las Vegas Aces (34-21-5) (up 1)
GM -  @Spartan AGM - @JigglyGumballs
Offensive Star - Las Vegas' Offensive Star for the week earned themselves 13 points and has the team's highest +/- for the week of 10. Not only that, but they had 2 GW goals! Congratulations to Angel Wachiure @inflastud!
 
Defensive Star - This defender seems to love the number 15, seeing as they earned this many assists, points, hits, and blocked shots! Congratulations to Linus Zetterstrom @Ledge_and_Dairy!
 
Goalie Overview - While Las Vegas traded Matthew A Sovick jr for Miami's Thadius Sales, we are going to focus on Sovick jr's time in Las Vegas this week, since he played 11 games for Las Vegas before being traded. During those 11 games in Las Vegas he faced 270 shots and let in 35, although he did earn a shutout. With that, he left Las Vegas with a SV% of .870. Sovick jr faced a total of 366 shots this week and allowed 47 of them to go into the net, earning a .872 SV% for the week.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Matt thunder @Matt thunder with 32 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Matt thunder @Matt thunder with 39 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Kelly Power @Nordin with 52 Hits
 
Miami Marauders (34-23-2) (down 1)
GM - @Ricer13 AGM - @Zetterberg
Offensive Star - This forward had an equal 9 goals and 9 assists this week. They delivered a massive 47 hits and even blocked a few shots as well (8). Congratulations to Ryan Ryker @Jayrad28!
 
Defensive Star - While points earned isn't everything, this defender matched Ryan Ryker @Jayrad28 with 18 points. Not only that, but this defender delivered 20 hits and blocked 21 shots! After having an incredibly impressive week, we've decided on Martin Master @Martin Master!
 
Goalie Overview - Much like what was said in the Aces review, since Thadius Sales played a majority of his games in Miami we are reviewing him here. Sales did not have the most wins this week, only bringing in 4 on 11 games played. However, facing 319 shots for Miami and only letting in 31, Sales moved over to Las Vegas with a SV% of .903! Looking at both of his numbers in Miami and Las Vegas, Sales faced 407 shots this week and gave up 42 goals, earning a .897 SV% for the week.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Chicken Wing @chikn with 25 SB
Rule Breaker Award - The Blob @JorgTheGoat03 with 27 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Ryan Ryker @Jayrad28 with 47 Hits
 
Halifax 21st (30-27-3) 
GM - @Dil AGM - @Riley_Couture
Offensive Star - In Halifax there is one player who deserves this title! This forward earned 22 points, delivered 38 big hits, and even blocked a dozen shots, while subsequently earning 3 game winning goals. Congratulations to Theodore James St Louis @Nick Kirkpatrick!
 
Defensive Star - This player earned 12 points this week. Not only that, but they delivered 20 big hits and blocked 13 shots. Congratulations to Kate Upton @OscarTheSwagDude! Let's hope Halifax doesn't regret trading you away!
 
Goalie Overview - Starting in all but 1 of Halifax's games this week, Mike Sterling @SilverMike did pretty well this week. Again, not the most winningest goalie, but he was able to earn another shutout. This week he faced 437 shots and stopped all but 53, earning a SV% of .879 on the week.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Clinton Giftopoulos @Thranduil with 29 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Matthew Willis @Griff001 with 21 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Theodore James St Louis @Nick Kirkpatrick with 38 Hits
 
Yukon Rush (27-25-7)
GM - @MexicanCow123 AGM - @fromtheinside
Offensive Star - This player tied two others with 18 points this week. However, we selected Michael Schmidt @Kmatt because they also delivered 51 big hits! Congratulations!
 
Defensive Star - This week we have to go with Kristof Welch @Juice! Welch not only earned 17 points, but delivered 31 hits while also blocking 24 shots!
 
Goalie Overview - Kloxified @Kloxified started in 12 of the 15 games played this week. Kloxified won 7 of those while facing 374 shots. Letting in 42, Kloxified ends this week with a SV% of .888.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Kristof Welch @Juice with 24 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Germano Henchoz @RicoTheTrapGod with 22 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Michael Schmidt @Kmatt with 51 Hits
 
Houston Bulls (26-33-2)
GM - @rjfryman AGM - @MattyIce
Offensive Star - This week there was one forward who impressed the Bulls' fans. Earning 24 points and getting 4 GW goals, we selected Jon Webber @Webberj!
 
Defensive Star - This player, or not a player, not only earned 17 points on 3 goals and 14 assists, but they also blocked an impressive 36 shots. Congratulations to Not A Player @Nope488
 
Goalie Overview - Starting in 15 of their 16 games, Trent Gibson had a pretty good week. Gibson was able to capture 9 wins, face 491 shots, and end the week with a .896 SV%. It wasn't an amazing week, but certainly not the worst around the league!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Not A Player @Nope488 with 36 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Jared Carter @jaredc7 with 52 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Vladimir Milinski @Brrbisbrr with 84 Hits
 
Mississauga Hounds (16-39-5)
GM - @ColeMrtz AGM - @Bacon
Offensive Star - This player grabbed 19 points while also blocking 11 shots! Offense wasn't great in Mississauga, but Erin Esurance @Sljppers wasn't satisfied with just sitting around. Congratulations! 
 
Defensive Star - The strongest defender in Mississauga this week not only earned 11 points, but they also delivered 20 hits while also blocking 37 shots. Congratulations to Jerrin @Jerrin Dean!
 
Goalie Overview - The Hounds allowed back-up goaltender Carter Bellamy @Leafsfan328 to start in 5 games, but still gave the majority of starts to Luke Spinelli @Lspinelli who started 11 games. Losing 10 of those, Spinelli faced 375 shots and had a pretty mediocre SV% of .851. 
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Jerrin @Jerrin Dean with 37 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Feenixx Rising @FeenixxRIsing with 26 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Feenixx Rising @FeenixxRIsing with 32 Hits
 
Minnesota Storm (16-41-2)
GM - @Rayzor_7 AGM - @Mr_Hatter
Offensive Star - One player stuck out this week in Minnesota. They collected 20 points, had only 2 PIM and had 2 GW goals. We've selected Delving Mackey @Jurell Yurki this week!
 
Defensive Star - This player not only had 11 assists, but they delivered 31 hits and blocked 34 shots! Congratulations to Markuss Puhovs @VOID Stiles!
 
Goalie Overview - Tater Tot @Trunkxolotl started 14 of 16 games this week. Only winning 5 of those games, one would expect the SV% on the week to be rather low. However, that's not the case. Facing 458 shots, Tot was able to stop all but 44 and earn a SV% of .904!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Ron World Peace III @stevo with 52 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Ron World Peace III @stevo with 30 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Jeff Jeffries @Sabremike with 50 Hits
 
Ottawa Lynx (8-51-1)
GM - @DoktorFunk AGM - @DarkSpyro
Offensive Star - This player was able to score 7 times and deliver 26 hits. On top of that they had 3 of the GW goals! Congratulations to Kolby Uelk @Kolby!
 
Defensive Star - We really only had one option for this week's Defensive Star. This player blocked 42 shots, had 22 hits and earned 9 points. Congratulations to Michael Stiff  @TheStiffer61!
 
Goalie Overview - Starting in 14 of 16 games played, Hi Hello lost 10 of those games. However, Hello's SV% was rather impressive. Only allowing 53 goals on 543 shots, the SV% for the week is a .902!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Michael Stiff @TheStiffer61 with 42 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Ernie King @Greg Ernest with 32 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Ernie King @Greg Ernest with 34 Hits
 
 
Goalie of the Week
While this week held a few goalies with rather high SV%, Michael Olson @MSO94 shines above the rest! Olson not only earned a .905 SV% this week, but also won 15 of 16 games started and played. Olson is absolutely on fire, and definitely a reason for San Diego's success. Olson could be a key player in the Marlin's run at the Founder's Cup!
 
 
League Overall
Just like we said would happen, this week saw so many trades and roster moves within the league. Teams readjusted lines, striving to move ahead in the standings and earn a playoff position. While much stayed the same as far as standings go, Philadelphia closed the gap from 6 points behind Mexico City to only 3. It seems that almost every team is eager to see what the playoffs bring, and some are just wishing this season was over all ready so that they could capture some nice draft picks.
 
We'll see you next week!

Please be sure to vote who you think the VHLM Week 4 Offensive and Defensive Stars are.

*You cannot change votes. Voting ends 20 December 2020!
 
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Claiming week ending 20 December 2020, more than 500 words.

If you would like to keep track of your team's week by week stats (other than GAA and SH%) make sure to check out the Google Sheets document to see that information.
 
To look at last week's winners, click here!
 
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Week 3 in the VHLM S75 has come to an end. We are now starting to see where most teams will find themselves at the end of the season. Changes in the standings are slowing down, but that doesn't mean Week 4 won't have some amazing changes!
 
League standings have changed a bit, but not much. Saskatoon and San Diego traded places, as did Miami and Las Vegas. Other than that, everyone else stayed in place by the end of the week.
 
Just like last week, each team will have an Offensive Star, Defensive Star, and some awards. This is based on weekly performance, not current team or league leaders. This week we've added in some overviews for each teams starting goaltender for the week.
 
Many have asked that I highlight 1 Offensive Star and 1 Defensive Star for the entire league each week. I'm going to leave that up to all of you with a poll!
After reading through, select who you think the Offensive and Defensive star of the league should be for the week! I will report the winner in next week's VHLM Player Highlights!
 
Some of you suggested that I switch up the awards, however I'm going to stick with the awards from last week for each team. HOWEVER, if you think of an award that a player deserves to get make sure you tag them in the comments with what that award is. Don't forget to include why they get it!
*Teams are presented in order of League Overall Standing
 
Mexico City Kings (35-6-4) 
GM - @Hylands AGM - @rory
Offensive Star - This week Mexico City's defense really stepped up! Leading the team this week in points (23), assists (16) and tied for the highest +/- (10) the Offensive Star for Mexico City belongs to one other than Kevin Wu @kevinscix!
 
Defensive Star - While Kevin Wu is also a contender here, there was another defender who stepped up to lay down some massive hits (37) while also blocking 23 shots. Continuing his title reign for another week is King Kruul @LefLop!
 
Goalie Overview - Starting for Mexico City in 14 games this week, Markus Emerson Jr @Xflexz had an impressive .916 SV% this week. Facing 381 shots and only allowing 32 goals in within a span of 14 games is mighty impressive. Not only that, but Emerson Jr captured 2 shutouts this week!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - We have a tie between Kevin Wu @kevinscix and King Kruul @LefLop both with 23 SB
Rule Breaker Award - We have a tie between Justin Lose @youloser1337 and King Kruul @LefLop both with 22 PIM
Snow Plow Award - We have a tie between Jakob Sosa @TMGSosa and King Kruul @LefLop both with 37 Hits
 
Philadelphia Reapers (32-7-4)
GM - @DMaximus AGM - @Spence King
Offensive Star - This player ended their week with 21 points. Having only 4 PIMs this week, and 3 GW goals, we have no other choice but Robert Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito!
 
Defensive Star - This player put their body on the line by stopping 29 shots on goal. Not only that, but they kept themselves largely out of the penalty box and still helped the offensive pressure. Congratulations to Robin Galante Nilsson @RomanesEuntDomus
 
Goalie Overview- Starting 12/16 games, Jacob Carson @jacobcarson877 continues to be impressive in the net. Facing 356 shots and only allowing 39 goals gave him a SV% of .890 on the week. It seems like the overtime pressure gets to him though, since Philadelphia lost 3 games in overtime, a couple to shoot outs. 
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Robin Galante Nilsson @RomanesEuntDomus with 29 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Jolly Greene Giant @DoktorFunk with 29 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Addison McLaren @tcookie25 with 59 Hits
 
Saskatoon Wild (29-11-4) 
GM - @Doomsday AGM - @a_Ferk
Offensive Star - This player not only has 34 points this week, but they have 18 goals (which is double the person in second place for goals on their team). This player only spent 6 minutes in the box and was certainly a key player in Saskatoon this week. Congratulations to Florent Vericel @dart
 
Defensive Star - This defender is not leading their team's defenders in points. However, this player has the highest +/- (15) on the entire team, and was willing to block 26 shots. On top of all of that, this player spent only 12 minutes in the box. Congratulations to Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko!
 
Goalie Overview- As far as goaltenders go, Michael Fletcher @DragonFire420 is sticking up there with some of the best. Facing 371 shots and only allowing 49 in, he has a .868 SV% for the week. Bringing that SV% will certainly help him out, and his team. Otherwise, great week for Fletcher!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko with 26 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Logan Moore @drewowo with 43 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Braxton Hunter @dshervill with 79 Hits
 
San Diego Marlins (27-14-2)
GM - @InstantRockstar AGM - @IamMOOSE
Offensive Star - This player has certainly been a tough one to track. Has he finally found a home? San Diego better hope so. This player lead the Marlins with 17 points this week and made sure to keep himself out penalty box. Bringing a strong offensive presence, this week we've selected Makism Yakolevsky @Nepto!
 
Defensive Star - The Marlins have a very strong defensive presence. However, this week we have one defender who stood out among the others. With 17 points, 32 hits and 24 SB we've gone with Gunnar Odinsson @BOOM™!
 
Goalie Overview- Being your team's only goalie certainly has its shares of pressure. Michael Olson continues to work in the crease, trying to stay healthy and active for every game. This week he faced 440 shots and stopped all but 46 of them, giving him a .895 SV% for the week. With that, Olson was able to bring about 1 shutout, which is always good to see.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Cowboy Prout @Prout with 35 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Phil The Rock Johnson @Phil with 26 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Frank Funk Jr @Rayzor_7 with 44 Hits
 
Miami Marauders (27-16-1) 
GM - @Ricer13 AGM - @Zetterberg
Offensive Star - This player really stepped up their game this week. While earning 28 points, they also scored 3 of the game winning goals while delivering an impressive 32 hits this week. We must give this week's Offensive Star in Miami to Peter Louis II @CosmicStorm!
 
Defensive Star - This defender had a very impressive 200-foot game week! Leading the team with 15 assists, 31 hits and 23 shots blocked, Chicken Wing @chikn is certainly doing their job!
 
Goalie Overview- Starting in 17 games this week, Thadius Sales @thadthrasher has come in clutch in a few shootout wins. Not only that, but he's captured another shutout. This week he faced 392 shots and stopped all but 43, giving him a .890 SV% for the week. If Sales can keep calm and let the chirping go in one ear and out the other he still may prove to be one of the better goalies in the league.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Martin Master @Martin Bradac with 24 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Martin Master @Martin Bradac with 32 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Ryan Ryker @Jayrad28 with 51 Hits
 
Las Vegas Aces (26-15-3) 
GM -  @Spartan AGM - @JigglyGumballs
Offensive Star - We've had yet another defender step up and be the offensive powerhouse for their team. With 20 points this week, 32 hits and 19 shots blocked, Matt thunder @Matt thunder did some great work!
 
Defensive Star - Surprisingly, no other defender for the Aces stepped up this week like Matt thunder @Matt thunder. Sure, he didn't block the most shots this week, but his defensive presence helped to create scoring opportunities which gave him 14 assists this week. Congratulations on definitely being Las Vegas' best player this week!
 
Goalie Overview- Matthew A Sovick jr has been a solid person to be in the net. Grabbing his second shutout this week, Sovick jr faced 349 shots and stopped all but 35, giving him a .900 SV% this week. If Sovick jr keeps working on his in-net skills he will be a force to be reckoned with in the future!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Linus Zetterstrom @Ledge_and_Dairy with 26 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Joakim Lund @Bouncyelf with 38 PIM
Snow Plow Award - We have a tie between Joakim Lund @Bouncyelf and Kelly Power @Nordin both with 44 Hits
 
Halifax 21st (24-19-2) 
GM - @Dil AGM - @Riley_Couture
Offensive Star - Once again this player finds themselves as Halifax's Offensive Star. With 29 points this week and 15 goals in 17 games, we have chosen Dolant Ferititta @Dolant!
 
Defensive Star - This defender was able to not only produce offensively, but they also protected the net from 32 shots. One of the key defenders this week is none other than Clinton Giftopoulos @Thranduil!
 
Goalie Overview- Starting every game this week, Mike Sterling @SilverMike continues to be impressive in net. While his W/L record isn't the greatest, this week proved to be good for Sterling. Gaining two more shutouts this week (which gives him 7 on the season) it is clear that the Sterling is working well with his defenders. Taking 451 shots and stopping all but 47, Sterling has a SV% of .896 this week. It seems that Sterling's W/L record would improve if Halfiax's offense would step up just a bit more.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Clinton Giftopoulos @Thranduil with 32 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Dolant Ferititta @Dolant with 23 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Theodore James St Louis @Nick Kirkpatrick with 49 Hits
 
Yukon Rush (19-19-6)
GM - @MexicanCow123 AGM - @fromtheinside
Offensive Star - With the second highest +/- (11) this week, this left winger is doing work, capturing 21 points on the week. We have decided to go with Daddy Derek @DirtyDerek!
 
Defensive Star - While not being the most offensive defenseman, this player blocked a whopping 33 shots and delivered an equal amount of hits. Still, Tee Pee E II @Goliathus was able to get 14 points on 11 assists! Congratulations!
 
Goalie Overview- Kloxified started 15 of the games this week. While able to face 463 shots and stop all but 53, they were unable to have a positive week, losing 7/15 games, ending the week with a SV% of .886. 
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Tee Pee E II @Goliathus with 33 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Michael Schmidt @Kmatt with 26 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Michael Schmidt @Kmatt with 42 Hits
 
Houston Bulls (16-29-0)
GM - @rjfryman AGM - @MattyIce
Offensive Star - Stepping up to the bat this week, this player was the only one to reach double digits for goals scored, having 13. They earned 22 points while also serving only 10 minutes in the box. Congratulations to Jon Webber @Webberj
 
Defensive Star - This defender was not the defensive point earner, but they certainly carried their weight in the defensive zone! Blocking 37 shots, delivering 24 hits, and still earning 10 points, we've gone with Not A Player @Nope488 this week!
 
Goalie Overview- Starting in 12 of the 17 games, Trent Gibson @Caboose30 gave it his all this week. While certainly not the most winningest goalie in the league, Gibson was able to bring in 1 shutout and stop all but 46 of his 387 shots faced, giving him a .881 SV% on the week. 
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Not A Player @Nope488 with 37 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Jared Carter @jaredc7 with 48 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Jared Carter @jaredc7 with 73 Hits
 
Mississauga Hounds (14-28-2)
GM - @ColeMrtz AGM - @Bacon
Offensive Star - Sometimes it can be difficult to pick an Offensive Star for a team. While Jordan Tate @Aye my name jeff led the team with 25 points, Dan Dan @MMFLEX was right behind with 23 points. However close this is, Dan Dan blocked more shots (7) and delivered 6 more hits for a total of 35 for the week. Given how close they were on points, these other categories helped propel Dan Dan forward to be the Hounds' Offensive Star of the week!
 
Defensive Star - There was only one clear winner this week! This player not only assisted in 15 goals, but they also blocked 33 shots while also hitting 60 people. Congratulations to Feenixx Rising @FeenixxRIsing!
 
Goalie Overview- Hounds' starting goaltender, Luke Spinelli certainly had a rough week. Losing 9 of his 14 starts, Spinelli was only able to hold a .871 SV% for the week, letting 55 pucks by him on 428 shots against. 
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Feenixx Rising @FeenixxRIsing with 33 SB
Rule Breaker Award - The Blob @JorgTheGoat03 with 35 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Feenixx Rising @FeenixxRIsing with 60 Hits
 
Minnesota Storm (11-31-1)
GM - @Rayzor_7 AGM - @Mr_Hatter
Offensive Star - While there isn't much offense going on in Minnesota, Joseph Sharkton @TheOGShark never gave up, bringing in 15 points. Congratulations on trying to bring your team forward!
 
Defensive Star - This player was able to block 36 shots this week! On top of that, they served up 10 assists while also delivering 43 massive hits! Congratulations to Art Yemis @SofaKing!
 
Goalie Overview- Minnesota had quite a few mid-game goalies changes this week. While Tater Tot @Trunkxolotl started 4 games, Hi Hello @Hello started 13. However, Hi Hello finished all of the games that Tater Tot started. While doing this he did lose 9 of those games and won only 3. Surprisingly, Hi Hello has a rather high SV% for this week of .907, stopping all but 44 of the 471 shots faced. 
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Markuss Puhovs @VOID Stiles with 39 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Jeff Jeffires @Sabremike with 28 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Henry Tucker @NotSoGood88 with 52 Hits
 
Ottawa Lynx (4-39-1)
GM - @DoktorFunk AGM - @DarkSpyro
Offensive Star - It's hard to pick an Offensive Start when there is seemingly no offense happening. However, Philip Stein @IHateBobNutting continues to work hard, earning 16 points, with 1 GW goal. Congratulations!
 
Defensive Star - This defender is working hard to make things happen for Ottawa. With 50 SB, 35 Hits and 12 points we've selected Chester McCork @mcjosd for yet another week of stardom.
 
Goalie Overview- Before being traded to Las Vegas, Asher OHara @predsfan9 played 10 games for Ottawa. Losing 9 of those games, OHara faced 377 shots, stopping all but 52 and earning a .862 SV% this week. Stepping up to the plate then was Dexter Vaugn @Flames1Fan. He played in 7 games, losing 6. He ended the week with a .872 SV% facing 304 shots and letting in 39. Needless to say, we feel bad for any Ottawa goaltender right now.
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Chester McCork @mcjosd with 50 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Chester McCork @mcjosd with 18 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Chester McCork @mcjosd with 35 Hits
 
 
Goalie of the Week
This week we saw some pretty outstanding performances from some goalies. While this is a hard decision to make, we can only pick 1! There is certainly much more that goes into being a goalie beyond the SV%, but that's the best criteria we have right now in a weekly breakdown. This week this goalie blew every other goalie out of the water. Winning 11 out of 14 games with an impressive .916 SV% for the week, it's obvious that Markus Emerson Jr @Xflexz was the greatest goalie this week in the VHLM!
 
 
League Overall
As we move closer and closer to the end of the season we should expect teams to shake up some lines and make some moves in order to try and win. Mexico City continues to lead the league, ahead of Philadelphia by only 6 points. Of course, these two teams are their conferences leaders as well. However, just because a team leads their conference or the league doesn't mean they are guaranteed the Founder's Cup! That's what's exciting about VHLM hockey, you never know what will happen!
 
We'll see you next week!

Please be sure to vote who you think the VHLM Week 3 Offensive and Defensive Stars are.

*You cannot change votes. Voting ends 13 December 2020!
 
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More than 500 words. Claiming for week ending 13 December 2020
 
 

Roughly halfway into the VHLM season, after a massive dogfight over the top positions, the standings for this season in the M are starting to emerge. Not to say there are still very important decisions to be made, specifically in the West. But the top two teams and the bottom couple teams are clear by now, with drastic differences in points. I'd say there are two or three tiers.......
 
Tier 1: Mexico City Kings, Philadelphia Reapers-The Champions
These two teams are truly in a league of their own. The closest team is 9 points behind them. Right now, the Kings have a 5 point edge over the Reapers, but I think that won't last long and this will be a battle all season long. Both of these teams have skill bubbling over the rim. 4 of the top 10 leading scorers of the league are from these two teams, and Philly has the 1-2 punch. 
 
We'll take a closer look at the Kings' success first. Last season, they were a playoff bubble team who were bounced in the first round, but they piled up draft picks and built a monster. However, the surprising thing about the Kings is that they don't have a ton of firepower at offense. Yes, Justin Lose @youloser1337 is maxed in the M and RJ Thatcher @jhatty8 is a mere 5 TPE away, but other than that, they have a pedestrian offensive force. Sosa @TMGSosa and Callahan Jr.  @Callahan are very good second line players, but I think acquiring a top scoring guy would really make them a threat. On defense, the amazing VHLM journeyman King Kruul @LefLop is bringing it, Hulk Hogan Jr. @Beaviss was a solid pickup at the draft, and they have a sneaky good waiver signing in the one and only MacGruber @Motzaburger. But again, not a single maxed player, so it's sort of confusing. Between the pipes, maxed Markus Emerson Jr., @Xflexz leads the way. 
 
The Philadelphia Reapers are the best team on paper by far this season. On the contrary to the Kings, the Reapers have loads of firepower up front, with Addison McLaren @tcookie25 and Robert Bouchard @Gaikoku-hito being probably one of the most dangerous duos the VHLM has ever seen, and just tons of quality depth forwards. And it doesn't stop there. Maxed defenceman and 2nd overall VHL pick Jolly Greene Giant @DoktorFunk was a blessing for the Reapers, as he has been maxed from almost the start of the season. Maxed goaltender Jacob Carson @jacobcarson877 is the man in the nets.
 
 
Tier 2: Saskatoon Wild, Las Vegas Aces, San Diego Marlins, Miami Marauders-The Runner-Ups
In tier 2, the runner-ups, we have a slew of teams that could switch positions within games. That's how close it is, especially considering the Wild, the Aces, and the Marlins are all fighting for the 2nd place spot in the West.
 
The Saskatoon Wild are currently leading the runner-ups in points. They have the dynamic duo of Steve Eso @Eso and Florent Vericel @dart who are both in the top ten in scoring, but other than that, just a couple of scoring guys like Vivek Weiner @coochiman, Victor Foles @Suzuki14, and Braxton Hunter @dshervill. On D, @Acydburn 's new player, Battre Sandstrom, leads the way, while Silas LeFriend @yevty and Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko are good complementary guys. Michael Fletcher @DragonFire420 is their goalie.
 
The Las Vegas Aces were one of the favourites from last season, finishing first in the West but being knocked out by the eventual champions Miami Marauders. Their surprise MVP this season has been Connor Sim @SimmerDown99, with Angel Wachiure @inflastud and maxed Its Gucci @frescoelmo  also leading the team scoring-wise. The Aces have one of the best D-cores in the league, with maxed players Matt thunder @Matt thunder and Linus Zetterstrom @Ledge_and_Dairy as well as nearly maxed Chase Crosby @Wreckening. Their starting goalie is Matthew A Sovick Jr. @matt sovick, but their backup, Aksu Maronen @aksuko, has also been noticeable with his TPE earning.
 
 
The San Diego Marlins were not a good team last season, to say the least. They finished second last, but they got some picks in the dispersal draft in the process, so they have a contending team this year. Nero Endrizzi @Jonessee27 and rookie sensation Red Lite @Tate lead the way offensively, with the dynamic defence duo of Scotty Kaberle @fromtheinside and Cowboy Prout @Prout providing offense from the back end, and a solid netminder in Michael Olson @MSO94, the Marlins are looking to get into the playoffs this year. 
 
The Miami Marauders have the least amount of points in the runner-ups, and yet they are comfortably in 2nd place in the East. Their saviors this year are Cabe McJake @RedSus, who they managed to get back in the dispersal draft, Peter Louis ll @CosmicStorm, and surprising offensive threat Nathan Perry @tinafrombobsburgers. Chicken Wing @chikn, leads the way on defense. It's a miracle that Miami got him back at all. And finally, the man between the posts, Thadius Sales @thadthrasher
 
 
Tier 3: Yukon Rush, Halifax 21st, Houston Bulls-The Hopefuls
This tier is where the Miami Marauders came from last year, the hopefuls. The teams that are likely to either just miss the playoffs or barely get in. The situatons of these teams vary, though.
 
The Yukon Rush are in a bit of a dilemma. They are a good team, a contending team, no doubt. But they are shoved behind all the other good teams in the West, so they'll have to really fight for a spot or they can sell their assets and make a run next year. This team is led offensively by Vick Fairchild @GreenGato, offseason acquisition The great @Jake Sumner, and recent trade acquisition Kevin Sterk @TenZi. On the back end, Tee Pee E ll @Goliathus is at point per game. Kloxified @Kloxified is their goalie, who is maxed. 
 
The Halifax 21st are also not a bad team. Not at all. They just lack the depth at forward that the best teams have. They are led by the dominant Dolant Fertitta @Dolant and the breakout star Theodore James St Louis @Nick Kirkpatrick. On D, they have Clinton Giftopoulos @Thranduil, who is their top D at a point per game pace. Mike Sterling @SilverMike, their tendy, has been solid throughout the season so far.
 
The Houston Bulls may not belong in this group, but they certainly didn't belong in the next group, so here they are. Their one point per game man is Dominic Gobeil @domg5, who has driven their offense. He is joined by Jon Webber @Webberj and Luukas Lilja @Retuperkele, who looks to have retired even though he is in his second season. ON D, Not A Player @Nope488 leads the way. Trent Gibson @Caboose30 is the starter in the crease.
 
 
Tier 4: Minnesota Storm, Ottawa Lynx: The Basement Dwellers
Both of the basement dweller teams are in the East, so that will make for some easy competition in the early rounds of the playoffs for the other Eastern teams.
 
The Minnesota Storm are quite a bit better than the Lynx, but they are still miles behind even the Bulls. They were hit hard after they won the Founder's Cup two years ago, and they've struggled to gain assets in the draft. They have some crazy saviors this season, though. Joseph Sharkton @TheOGShark must have the perfect build, because he is one of the league leaders in scoring at just 84 TPE. Another surprise all-star is Ron World Peace lll @stevo, who is also on the leaderboards but for defencemen. Peace also appears to have a perfect build for the M. Hi Hello @Hello, their goalie, has been peppered with shots so hasn't had great stats.
 
The Ottawa Lynx are the worst team this year. This is said without question. They had to forfeit some of their draft picks last dispersal draft, so they have been starved of assets, and they are built from mostly recent waiver pickups. Aivars Kiris @Aivarszz has been their best offensive force at 22 points, while other than that, Philip Stein @IHateBobNutting holds some promise. But expect Ottawa to be a lottery pick team this year for sure.
 
 
 
   So I can claim this for three weeks, I have to add another three hundred words or so, so here are my predictions for this year:
 
I think the Founder's Cup will go to the Philadelphia Reapers because of their amazing depth and firepower
 
I think the Yukon Rush will make the most improvement throughout the rest of the season
 
I think the Houston Bulls will drop in the standings throughout the rest of the season
 
I think Addison McLaren will get the most points and the most goals
 
I think Markus Emerson Jr. will win best goalie
 
I think Cowboy Prout will win best defenceman
 
I think @DMaximus will win best GM
 
 
Those are my predictions, and this is the end of my article. I hope you enjoyed, and we'll see you next time(which won't happen for a while because I'm claiming this for so long)
 
 
1,510 words
 
 
 
 
 
 

Under250: VHLM Review - S75 #1  |  VHL Weekly Review- Nov 23/20  
The Bootcast- Prelude  |  75  |  VSN Presents: Season 75 Future Watch
 
 
We are at the halfway point of the S75 season in the VHLM and this season will be remembered as one of the most competitive years in league history. Literally three quarters of the league is a legitimate playoff threat and there aren't many days where teams can look at their schedules and feel too confident about their upcoming matches. It's been stressful, yet super fun to watch teams jockey for position amongst their respective conferences. The standings are flip-flopping almost daily after every sim. However with that being said, there are two teams that are truly a tier above the rest. Let's take a look!
 

 
 
In the West the Mexico City Kings have dominated their campaign, sporting the best record in the entire league. On top of that they are in the harder conference of the two. Out East, the Philadelphia Reapers are the toast of the town and are undoubtedly the most lethal offensive team in the league. Both these teams are undisputedly the cream of the crop this season. While there is significantly more parody throughout the whole league this year, the Western Conference is undeniably the harder of the two. Even the Houston Bulls who are in last place pose a consistent threat, quite simply put there are no easy matchups. The East is no joke either. While definitely weaker in the bottom half of the standings,  the top 3 teams are all serious playoff contenders. But now let's focus on the meat and potatoes of this report. The Mexico City Kings are currently the leagues top team, the final boss as it were.  But how did they get here? Certainly not by dumb luck. It was an arduous process that started multiple seasons ago. Without further ado, let's deep-dive into the process of becoming a powerhouse in the VHLM!
 
 
 

General Manager- @Hylands
Assistant General Manager- @rory  
 
Roster Breakdown
 
Returnees:  To my surprise, there really isn't a huge list of returning talent from Season 74.  Of the entire 22-man Kings roster, only five players returned for a second stint. While the quantity may not be high, almost all these players are absolute core members of the Kings squad and are essential to their success. The first player is the starting goaltender @Xflexz Markus Emerson Jr.  Emerson created in Season 72 but was taken by Las Vegas in the S73 Dispersal Draft. his time in Vegas was short lived as he was traded to Mexico fairly quickly, and he has been there ever since.  After a limited backup role in S73, Emerson took over as the team's starting goalie last season. Despite Mexico not being a very strong team last year, Emerson posted respectable numbers and showed a glimpse of things to come for S75. Jumping back to present-day, Emerson is arguably the top keeper in the league this season, boasting a 29-4-3 record with a ,912 save percentage, a sparkling 2.22 GAA with 3 shutouts to boot. Any hockey franchise given the "powerhouse" moniker surely has a rock solid netminder, and Emerson is no exception. Another returning player was top line center @Firekiss Chris Foley. Mexico scooped Foley up off waivers in his initial rookie season. Foley must have made a great first impression because the Kings immediately gobbled him back up in the S74 Dispersal Draft. The playmaking center absolute tore up the M last season, posting 85 points (28G, 57A). Although he isn't producing at that pace this season, he really doesn't need to be as the team is much more deep and there are scoring threats on every line. And the last, but certainly not least player I would like to highlight is none other then@jhatty8 RJ Thatcher.  RJ actually follows the exact same career patch as his linemate Foley. Breaking into the ladder half of S73, he was taken by the Kings off waivers, and then immediately redrafted by them in the S74 Dispersal Draft.  The second part of the dynamic duo had an incredible sophomore season putting up a mammoth 86 points (43G, 43A). While Foley's numbers have dipped a bit, Thatcher continues to put up numbers at a torrid pace. He's averaging over a point per game (51 in 42GP), and of his 24 goals this season, 7 of them are game winners! Thatcher is unquestionably the leader of this squad and the Kings will need a big post-season from him if they want a shot at the Founder's Cup.
 

 
 
Draft:  The S75 VHLM Dispersal draft was loaded with an astonishingly vast amount of talent. This was largely thanks to the S74 Recruitment Drive that brought a gigantic wave of rookies into the VHL system. If there was ever a year to load up on some extra draft picks, this was the one. And the Kings did just that. The trend biggest trend in this draft was defensemen going early and often. After 3 of the first 4 picks in the draft were blueliners, Mexico was on the clock with back to back picks at 5 and 6. They continued the trend and snatched up two franchise d-men in @kevinscix Kevin Wu and @Beaviss Hulk Hogan Jr.   The Kings knew what they were getting in Wu having picked him up off waivers in S74. In his rookie campaign  Wu managed almost a point per game pace putting up 59 points (21G, 38A) in 61 games. For a rookie defenseman, those are some great numbers. With the other pick at 6, Mexico took the closest thing to sure thing in the draft when they called Hulk Hogan Jr's name. Taking a VHL commissioner re-create is never a bad idea, and let me tell you something brother, HH Jr was no exception.  Coming off a stunning championship run in Miami, Hogan Jr will also bring a winning pedigree to the Kings that will surely help them in the postseason this year. 
 
In the second round of the draft the Kings turned their attention to offense.  At 15 they somewhat surprisingly took @TMGSosa Jakob Sosa. While I would have expected a winger to get taken first, you can never have too many centers especially since you can slot them in at wing also if needed. Also this pick continued the trend of Mexico taking players they had in S74. While only posting 17 points in 40 games during his rookie season, the Kings must like Sosa's other intangibles that don't show up in the stat sheet. Given the trend of drafting past players again, I'm sure they knew what they were getting in Sosa and we're excited to have him back.  Three picks later the Kings were back with 2 more straight picks, and the first of which is one I would speculate to be one of the steals of the draft. At 18th overall the Kings took @youloser1337 Justin Lose. Ironically, Lose was a Philadelphia Reaper product from S74, but the Kings had the foresight to scoop him up in the middle of round 2. Lose had a respectable rookie year, but has truly blossomed into a high-end impact player this season. He's been at the 250 TPE cap for over a week now and he is producing massive points for the Kings, already sitting at 46 points (20G, 26A). I think getting Lose at that point in the draft was a major steal and Lose compliments Chris Foley's playmaking abilities nicely.  With the second of their back-to back picks Mexico shifted focus back onto defense when they took Finnish defender @monttu Teppo McBighit. Teppo came into the league last season right around the trade deadline with Houston. As his name would imply, he is a physical shutdown defenseman that checks addresses alot of the needs Mexico still had.  While there were some flashier and higher TPE options still available on the board at this point of the draft, Teppo has fit in nicely for the Kings. The last player I'd like to highlight came in the third round.  With pick 29, the Kings went with another elite offensive winger by the name of @Callahan John Callahan Jr.  Callahan Jr. has been a consistent TPE earner and rounds out Mexico's top 6 forwards perfectly.  After being a late signup in S74, Callahan was actually teammates with Justin Lose in Philly.  Whether that  went into the decision of drafting him is unknown, but their chemistry this year has been undeniable. 
 
Free Agents/Waivers:  While most of their core was established via the draft and returning players, there are still a couple noteworthy pickups the Kings have made this season that absolutely help bolster their team depth. The biggest addition, and perhaps the most peculiar is the signing of journeyman defensemen @LefLop King Kruul. Kruul's career path is undeniably one of the strangest I've seen in my short time during the VHL. He played an entire rookie season all the way back in S68 when he signed with the San Diego Marlins. He enjoyed multiple successful seasons in the M, even winning a cup in S72 with Saskatoon and taking home the Ryan Sullivan Trophy for being the league's best defensemen! Kruul's career was off to a Hall-of-Fame level start but then he went inactive. For three seasons Kruul literally played no games, and his player has been around so long, he's actually accumulating depreciation in the VHLM! Perhaps either Hylands or Rory has a connection with him and convinced him to come back for a season or two before his player retires? Hard to say exactly how the transaction went down, but when it was all said and done and the dust settled, the Kings came away with a top 4 defensemen for their roster. As for waiver signings this season, there have been a couple but one specifically leaps out at me. This week longtime community member @Motzaburgerrecreated a new player after coming off of a hiatus. MacGruber is a defensemen and thanks to the TPE carryover rules, he is starting with a base of 120! Talk about a nice head start on your player's career. Even if Motza just does the bare minimum from now until the end of the regular season, Mexico will have added themselves a quality depth defender to bolster their blueline.
 
All things considered, you really do need a lot of things to sway in your favor to get a perfect recipe for success like how the Kings have. Having a few elite pieces returning for another year mixed with drafting remarkably well in what was one of the deepest drafts in recent memory. On top of that, adding a couple longtime members of the VHL community via free agency and waivers to reinforce an already strong foundation is really just the icing on the proverbial cake. Getting all this to fall in line is much easier said than done and even after doing all this, it's important to remember at the end of the day this is a simulation league and even with a powerhouse such as this one, you aren't guaranteed a cup at the end of your season. Look no further than the S74 Halifax 21st if you don't believe me on that one. That wraps up my breakdown of the Mexico City Kings franchise. I will be back in a couple weeks to take a closer look at other developing stories in the VHLM.  Until then, thanks for reading! 

I owe a huge apology to @MexicanCow123, @fromtheinside, and the entire Yukon Rush locker room. Last week I completely forgot to include their team in my report. I won't make any excuses for that and I sincerely apologize!
 
If you would like to keep track of your team's week by week stats (other than GAA and SH%) make sure to check out the Google Sheets document to see that information.
 
To look at last week's winners, click here!
 
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Week 2 in the VHLM S75 has come to an end and there were certainly some exciting changes. We saw trades happen between Yukon and Ottawa early in the week, and then last night at the end of the week between San Diego and Ottawa. Many teams across the league signed waiver players, hoping to add to their chances for the Founder's Cup! 
 
League standings have fluctuated greatly over this last week, and the only team that saw absolutely no move was Ottawa.
 
Just like last week, each team will have an Offensive Star, Defensive Star, and some awards. This is based on weekly performance, not current team or league leaders.
 
Some of you suggested that I switch up the awards, however I'm going to stick with the awards from last week for each team. HOWEVER, if you think of an award that a player deserves to get make sure you tag them in the comments with what that award is. Don't forget to include why they get it!
*Teams are presented in order of League Overall Standing
 
Mexico City Kings (22-3-3)
GM - @Hylands AGM - @rory
Offensive Star - While not necessarily scoring the most points for his team this week, this player brought in 26 points over 17 GP. Setting up his team with 16 assists, this week's Offensive Star is Magnus Verlander @Jbeezy76!
 
Defensive Star - Mexico City's defensive was incredible this week, blocking 108 shots together (this isn't including their offense who blocked shots either). However, one player stands out. Much like last week, this player continues to block shots, lay out some massive hits, and be the teams leading points earner for defensemen. This week the Defensive Star is King Kruul @LefLop!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Hulk Hogan Jr @Beaviss with 29 SB. Hey, brother!
Rule Breaker Award - King Kruul @LefLop with 22 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Justin Lose @youloser1337 with 42 hits
 
Philadelphia Reapers (22-4-1)
GM - @DMaximus AGM - @Spence King
Offensive Star - This player certainly made their presence known on the ice! Bringing in 30 points and delivering 66 hits, this week's Offensive Star is Addison McLaren @tcookie25!
 
Defensive Star - This defender continues to be an important asset. Collecting 22 points, maintaining a high +/- of 28, laying out 42 hits and even blocking 19 shots, this week's Defensive Star is Jolly Greene Giant @DoktorFunk
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Bob Tristan @N0HBDY with 20 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Addison McLaren @tcookie25 with 38 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Addison McLaren @tcookie25 with 66 hits
 
San Diego Marlins (18-8-1)
GM - @InstantRockstar AGM - @IamMOOSE
Offensive Star - This was a tough decision to make. Two players stand out the most with 23 points each. However, only one of them delivered more hits and took on more penalties, and that would be Nero Endrizzi @Jonessee27!
 
Defensive Star - This defender once again finds themselves being the Defensive Star for San Diego. With 22 points, 42 hits, and 39 SB we HAVE to give this to Cowboy Prout @Prout!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Cowboy Prout @Prout with 39 SB
Rule Breaker Award - We have a tie between Cowboy Prout @Prout and Phil The Rock Johnson @Phil both with 24 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Cowboy Prout @Prout with 42 hits (Jon Strider @Strider just missed it with 41 hits)
 
Saskatoon Wild (16-8-3)
GM - @Doomsday AGM - @a_Ferk
Offensive Star - With the team's highest +/- for the week at 10, scoring 24 points on 19 assists, and holding one of the lowest PIMs of 2 this week, we have to go with Vivek Weiner @coochiman
 
Defensive Star - Two defenders stuck out this week in Saskatoon. Both brought in about the same number of points and have a very similar +/-. While Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko blocked an insane 27 shots blocked, Battre Sandstrom @Acydburn  was busy laying down 29 hits. With that in mind, one player was able to score 2 GW goals for the Wild while also keeping a relatively low PIM of 22. Congratulations to Battre Sandstrom @Acydburn
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Gabriel Johnson @GeckoeyGecko with 27 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Logan Moore @drewowo with 37 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Braxton Hunter @dshervill with 71 hits
 
Las Vegas Aces (15-9-3)
GM -  @Spartan AGM - @JigglyGumballs
Offensive Star - There is one clear winner here for the Las Vegas Aces' Offensive Star of the week! Racking in 19 points, with only 4 PIM and a whopping 21 hits, we have to go with Angel Wachiure @inflastud!
 
Defensive Star - Coming in second place as far as points go, with 16 earned, this defender kept a cool head with 12 PIM and even made sure to block 18 shots! Congratulations to Chase Crosby @Wreckening!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Matt Thunder @Matt thunder with 24 SB
Rule Breaker Award - We have a tie between Joakim Lund @Bouncyelf and Kelly Power @Nordin both with 26 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Kelly Power @Nordin with 68 hits
 
Miami Marauders (15-12-0)
GM - @Ricer13 AGM - @Zetterberg
Offensive Star - While many may have expected last week's Offensive Star, Cabe McJake @RedSus to keep his title this week, we have a change! This player brought in 20 points, kept a fairly low number of PIM at 12 and even delivered 22 hits. Congratulations to Nathan Perry @tinafrombobsburgers!
 
Defensive Star - This defender did not score the most points as far as defenders go for Miami. However, they have the second highest number of points for a defender at 10, 31 hits and even blocking 16 shots! Congratulations to Martin Master @Martin Bradac!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - We have a tie between Chicken Wing @chikn and Franz Ferdinand @-_____- both with 20 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Wayne Rooney @Ingusk3 with 30 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Ryan Ryker @Jayrad28 with 46 hits
 
Halifax 21st (13-13-2)
GM - @Dil AGM - @Riley_Couture
Offensive Star - Again, this player shows Halifax that they are a points earner. Bringing in 28 points and having the team's highest +/- of 12, this week's Offensive Star is Dolant Fertitta @Dolant!
 
Defensive Star - It was a tough decision this week as far as a Defensive Star goes. Two defenders stood out with almost the same number of points and hits. However, one of these players was able to earn 17 points, have a +/- of 6, deliver 29 hits and block 23 shots. This week we select Rick Osman @dylanjj37!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Clinton Giftopoulos @Thranduil with 30 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Javad Kamkar @Parriyah9374 with 30 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Ramarod Ramirez @Ominous with 42 hits
 
Yukon Rush (11-12-4)
GM - @MexicanCow123 AGM - @fromtheinside
Offensive Star - The offensive player we decided to go with this week was able to not only lead the team in points with 20, but they also delivered an impressive 35 hits and even blocked 9 shots. While it was a close call, we decided to go with Vick Fairchild @GreenGato!
 
Defensive Star - One defender in Yukon has shown they have a great 200-foot game! This player delivered 13 assists, scored 3 goals, and made sure to block a whopping 29 shots! We've selected Tee Pee E II @Goliathus as Yukon's Defensive Star of the week!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Tee Pee E II @Goliathus with 29 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Vick Fairchild @GreenGato with 20 PIM
Snow Plow Award - We have a tie between Michael Schmidt @Kmatt and Vick Fairchild @GreenGato with 35 hits
 
Houston Bulls (11-17-0)
GM - @rjfryman AGM - @MattyIce
Offensive Star - There is only one player in Houston who deserves this week's honor of being their team's Offensive Star. With 24 points and 40 hits this week, we have decided to give this honor to Dominic Gobeil @domg5!
 
Defensive Star - This week's Defensive Star for Houston not only served up 7 assists, but they have the best +/- for the team at 6 and they blocked 25 shots in total! Congratulations to Not A Player @Nope488 for retaining the title!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Usilov Valentinovich @Usilov Valentinovich with 34 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Zachary Sirois @Zach386 with 36 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Jared Carter @jaredc7 with 58 hits
 
Mississauga Hounds (10-16-1)
GM - @ColeMrtz AGM - @Bacon
Offensive Star - This player is the only one to have goals in the double digits, scoring 11 this week. They also lead the Hounds with 18 points and have 1 of 2 of the GW goals. Congratulations to this week's Offensive Star in Mississauga, Eeli Rantanen @Jolline!

Defensive Star - As far as defenders go, only 1 shines bright! This defender leads the team with 12 assists, has the team's lowest PIM of 4 and even blocked 17 shots. It's clear that the Defensive Star for the Hounds is Gustav Hjalmarsson @McLovin!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Feenixx Rising @FeenixxRIsing with 34 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Erin Esurance @Sljppers with 23 PIM
Snow Plow Award - We have a tie between Dan Dan @MMFLEX and The Blob @JorgTheGoat03 both with 49 hits
 
Minnesota Storm (8-17-1)
GM - @Rayzor_7 AGM - @Mr_Hatter
Offensive Star - Leading Minnesota with 19 points and the most assists at 12, Minnesota has one player who continues to push for offensive movement in their games, and that is why this week's Offensive Star is once again Joseph Sharkton @TheOGShark!
 
Defensive Star - While there doesn't seem to be much defense going on in Minnesota, one player seems to be attempting to propel the Storm forward. Not only did they block 44 shots, but they also have 15 points this week with 10 assists. Congratulations, once again, to Ron World Peace III @stevo!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Art Yemis @SofaKing with 48 SB
Rule Breaker Award - Markuss Puhovs @VOID Stiles with 28 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Art Yemis @SofaKing with 41 hits
 
Ottawa Lynx (2-24-1)
GM - @DoktorFunk AGM - @DarkSpyro
Offensive Star - This player was traded into Ottawa at the beginning of the week, made their presence known, and then was traded away to San Diego. In that week this player scored 13 goals and delivered 10 assists. This player demonstrated a desire to help Ottawa move forward. Congratulations to Makism Yakolevsky @Nepto and good luck in San Diego!
 
Defensive Star - It's hard to tell if Ottawa is taking the old saying of "the best defense is a good offense" too literally. Whatever it is, it isn't working. However, one player continues to strive for success, despite their team's current standing. Mustering up 8 points, delivering 25 hits, and attempting to help his poor goalie by blocking 30 shots, the Defensive Star in Ottawa is Chester McCork @mcjosd. Congratulations!
 
Wanna Be Goalie Award - Chester McCork @mcjosd with 30 SB
Rule Breaker Award - We have a tie between Ishmael iqbal @mcsquishy (currently released) and Rei Guy @Reeeee with 16 PIM
Snow Plow Award - Philip Stein @IHateBobNutting with 29 hits
 
Goalies
Instead of providing awards to each team's goalies, since there are normally only two options per team, we are going to highlight one goalie per week who holds the best SV% for the week (must play a majority of the team's games). The goalie with the highest SV% for the week will be awarded the Brick Wall Award.
*we were evaluating GAA/week but the amount of time it would take to figure that out is way too high
 
Brick Wall Award - This goalie not only captured 1 SO this week, but they also continue to come in clutch for their team! With a .912 SV% for the week, we have to give this week's Brick Wall Award to the Philadelphia Reaper's starting goaltender, Jacob Carson @jacobcarson877!
 
League Overall
Only leading Philadelphia by two points so far, the Mexico City Kings took the lead this week with 42 points. Winning 9 games in a row, the eyes of the world are now on Mexico City. Will they be able to hold their #1 position? It's still too early to tell.
 
Last week we wondered if Ottawa would be able to get something other than "0" in their win column, and they did! Now, with 2 wins, Ottawa leads the league in most losses and goals against! Morale continues to be low in Ottawa, but there has certainly been a lot of movement with trades and releases. It's clear that this season is one of rebranding and growth for Ottawa. We are left wondering, what's next for the Lynx?
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More than 500 words. Claiming for week ending 6 December 2020.