Pengu

NOOT NOOT!

The World Junior Championship has started once again! For S71 we have rebranded these and dropped a daily review part of it, right now we will be going with a simple WJC Update. These series are about best players, surprises, and let downs from the most recent games. Stick around and follow us as VSN is here to be the media outlet for you and your entertainment!
 
Also, don’t forget to check out other cool VSN Content produced weekly for your entertainment. From lovely podcasts hosted by Berocka to stat-filled content on weekly news, history and more!
VHL Weekly | VHLM Weekly | League History | S71 WJC Team Rankings | VSN Radio

This season, as always, VSN has rated Asia very low but they seem to be full of surprises each season. With 3 wins in 3 games played they are simply playing better than every other team. It is interesting though that every other team is having similar scoring numbers and seem to be quite fairly balanced. Even the last-place Team USA looks almost identical in terms of goal difference and goalscoring to 2nd rated Team World. With the tournament only just starting, we don’t know how these standing will change and who will be at the top at the end of the day 2.

Team Asia

Asia seems to be completely unstoppable. With Shaposhnikov leading the charge with 8 points in just 3 games they don’t seem to have any weaknesses. They have 7 point-per-game players and a brilliant netminder in Nicolas Fomba who is showing his best with 0.942 Save percentage and 3 Goals against average. It almost seems that Asia was tired to be undervalued every tournament.

Team World

2nd place, not a bad place to be in. That said,  we know how close every other team is so we don’t know for how long will Team World be able to keep this position. Their scoring has been very much centred around their all-star first line with Pengu, leFlamant and Kiak. Zamboni Driver has been proving to be a great piece for Team World but at this moment hasn’t really been able to show his full potential.

Team Canada

The only team with fewer games played than every other. Canada has been very much lack-lustre as their offence just doesn’t seem to be able to click and they are extremely dependant on their goaltender to provide the team with a chance at winning games. Shouldn’t a team with a clear S72 VHL Draft 1st Overal draftee be better? Shouldn’t a team with one of the favourites for S72 Rookie of the year award be better?

Team Europe

Europe seems to be in an interesting situation. They have a strong group of players leading the offence and defence. Derek Eriksson, Ray Sheilds, Roque Davis and Ola VIkingstad have all been known across VHL and VHLM as players you can trust to get the job done. Extremely good depth scoring with 7 point-per-game players. So what is the big problem? Their goaltending. Joakim Bruden has not been able to find his game and with 0.883 Save percentage, it is just doesn’t seem like it will change any time soon.

Team United States of America

Okay, so… What is going on Team USA? With highly talented skaters and a future all-star goaltender in Stone Wolski, you should be doing a lot better. The good thing is that you are keeping goals scored and goals allowed close so at least there is a hope they will turn it around. There is still a lot of optimism here as many of these players are just having their chance to share the ice together with their countrymen. 
 

But for now, that will be it from us today, do you agree with our assessment or do you think VSN is completely wrong? Tune in to the next WJC Update when it comes out! See you there!

People mentioned: @DollarAndADream, @DirtyDerek, @Zetterberg, @Josh, @Dil, @Pengu, @PadStack, @BarzalGoat, @Grant, @Tape-to-Tape, @ng1291, @efiug

stress kills a man

sadly no  

Hey let's go Aces! Great article!

f u @Pengu simmer down on the stars of the game

Hello, and welcome to the first edition of a new season of Under 250: The VHLM Report. In these series, we will be taking a look at the trends and topics from the past week in the VHLM. What twists and turns will our minor league hold? Stay tuned to find out!

The Review
 
A new season, some fresh faces and some familiar ones, leads us all to wonder just how the rest of the season will turn out. It’s funny though, despite all the new beginnings and storylines, all the one thing you are looking forward to is the playoffs again, just to see who will be crowned. Well, that will have to wait! For now, we will just content ourselves with a review of games 1-59 of the VHLM Season 71. Without further ado, let's hop into the standings!
 


Starting the new season strong we have the Ottawa Lynx with an early lead for first place in the standings. Last season’s runner-ups have really hit the ground running, earning 20 points out of 11 matches with just the single loss. In the second place, the Las Vegas Aces are going strong with 8 wins out of their 10 played, having lost twice. Following the Aces is the Saskatoon Wild, rounding out the top three at 15 points. The Wild are having a great start for a team that owned no picks going into this season’s draft, doing really impressive stuff so far. 
 
Next up we have four teams all separated by a point. The Philadelphia Reapers are tied with the Yukon Rush for fourth place, each on 13 points, though the Reapers have a game in hand. Next up, tied for sixth we have the reigning Founder’s Cup champions the Minnesota Storm just ahead of the San Diego Marlins. Despite having won one fewer game the Storm has lost twice in the shootout, and are ahead on regular plus overtime wins, with five compared to San Diego’s four (though one of those shootouts was between the two teams, in which San Diego took the extra point). 
 
Following the Marlins there is another small drop-off before the Mississauga Hounds take the final playoff position at 8 points, just one ahead of ninth-placed Halifax 21st. The Hounds and 21st also mark our first foray into teams with a negative goal differential. One more point and position back of the 21st is the Mexico City Kings, although the Kings do hold a game in hand over the 21st. Rounding out the standings is the Houston Bulls, whose 1-7-3 record has earned them 5 points, their only win coming in Game 46 against Mexico City by a thrilling score of 5-4. 
 
Let’s take a quick look at the ELO charts to see if they paint a different picture:
 

 
As you can see, the Ottawa Lynx are at the top of both the ELO charts and the points table, but after that things get a little more interesting. The Reapers shot up quickly in the charts, stabilizing quickly, but remain number two by ELO despite ranking fourth in the standings. This can be explained in part by their fantastic goals against record, allowing three goals per game on average. Only the Lynx have a better defence so far.
 
The Aces and the Rush are just about tied, as the Rush made a huge jump up with their 10-0 thrashing of the Kings in Game 56.  Interestingly, despite being third place in the league, the Saskatoon Wild are more in the middle of the pack by ELO; taking a look at their goal difference, this starts to make a bit more sense, as their GD of 7 is worse than both fourth and fifth place. Outside of this, nothing really stands out from the ELO; the good teams are high, the bad teams are bad, and all is right in the world. 
 
The Highlights
 
The high octane offence of the Ottawa Lynx is kicking off yet another season strong with the top two scorers in the VHLM. Both Adam Syreck and Richard Penisson have scored over 30 points, with Syreck scoring over three points per game. Syreck leads the league in points, while Penisson has the most goals thus far. The top defender by points so far is Nikita Kulikovich of the San Diego Marlins, whose 26 points is good enough for fourth in the league. In fact, Kulikovich is the only defenseman in the top twenty, a very promising start for the Russian blueliner. Fantastically, he has scored a full quarter of all shots he’s taken so far. Goaltenders beware of this man’s wicked slapshot. 
 
Speaking of goaltenders, the Lynx lead yet another category, as their man between the pipes has been red-hot. Joakim Bruden has been a revelation thus far, earning a .907 SV% across his first 11 games, including a shutout against the Halifax 21st back in Game 25 (also a 9-0 blowout; Lynx fans should check it out). His GAA of 2.44 tops the league, and so far looks to be the frontrunner for goalie of the year. Another goalie worth mentioning, however, has one of the worst records by GAA and wins; but boy does he make up for it in carrying potential. Despite his 4.21 GAA, Hex Valentine has the second-best SV% in the league with .895%. And while Bruden and the Lynx have faced about 290 shots, Valentine and the 21st have had to deal with 449 shots, which makes his save percentage that much more impressive.  
 
Despite having just one player in the top five for scoring at this point, the Las Vegas Aces are a very balanced team, whose eight different points per game scorers puts them up as the best offence in the VHLM so far, with 62 goals scored compared to the Lynx’s 58. All of Jeff Blaze, Pengu, and number one draft pick Joe Proto are scoring at over a two-point per game rate. The Aces are proving to be a dangerous squad. 
 
One last observation: taking a look at third through seventh place, we see that each team has scored between 45 and 49 goals for, a remarkably consistent statistic for five different teams. However, their defensive records are all over the place thus far, ranging from 30 to 45 goals allowed. The key to this season’s playoff race might just be tightening up those defences, and weathering the storm. Then again, at this point in the season, it is likely too early to make any broad generalizations, as each team has not had enough chances to play the others; opponent variance holds a large deal of importance this early on. Regardless, one thing is clear: we can’t wait for more VHLM hockey. 
 
That’s all for this edition of Under 250: The VHLM Review. Thank you all for reading, and stay tuned next week for the inside scoop on all that’s going on in the league. Until next time!
 
GMs:  @Poptart, @Berocka, @Acydburn, @Dil, @Rayzor_7, @Motzaburger,
@MexicanCow123, @McWolf, @DMaximus, @iRockstar, @Sonnet
 
Players Mentioned: @Spade18, @bluesfan55, @PadStack, @Lockdown Defense, @DrHexDex,
@NyQuil, @Pengu, @Proto
 
 
VSN Writer Mr_Hatter

S70 Commissioners Cup 

 
Hello everyone. Procrastinating in the world we have today is something that can easily be done. It's a crazy one out there and is about to be a crazy one in here. The Commie Cup is about to get get underway and it's likely going to be another good one! I don't know the series/tournament statistics off the top of my head (procrastinating, days off, the world is sick etc) but I have the feeling Team Bana may be in the lead only so slightly. If not, then shit. GG DA. 
 
With that being said... LETS BATTLE! 
 

 

Commissioner Cup Draft AND Roster:
HERE!
 
 
Games will be posted later in this section: 
HERE!
 
Apologies to any spelling mistakes + snubbing or anything else that may have caused some deep emotions. Big... shout out to @Josh for once again simming the tournament. The spirit was really there to tag everyone but there'd be no magical surprise in that then, hey? Hope everyone who was named enjoys the fun little battle between commissioners. 
 
Thanks,
@VHLM Commissioner

I like the thought behind your composition. However your coloring, and lighting need some work. Too much purple, and it's a bit too dark. Work with color dodges, burning, and artificial light (soft, translucent white brush off the canvas). Great stuff though!

6.5/10

^ THIS IS PRETTY FOR A PRETTY HUMAN Pengu
 

The same thing happened to me in the VHLM dispersal draft, I was drafted 9th overall in the VHL draft but fell all the way down to 32nd overall in the VHLM draft, I was the last pick of round 3. The Minnesota Storm picked me up and look what happened we won the cup!! I was I think around 200 TPE when the draft happened and I got to 250 before the season started.

Pengu formerly of the Halifax 21st has found two new homes. For his development, he will continue to play in the VHLM but this time around it’s for a different team. After the VHLM Dispersal Draft, the young center found himself dropping all the way to Round 2, 17th pick overall. But it’s not exactly all bad news. The Las Vegas Aces is actually in a great position to win it all this season. With the steal of Pengu that late, the Aces find a lot of value for both sides of the rink.
 
The real Cinderella story is actually about where Pengu got drafted for the VHL. In S71’s entry draft Pengu was picked first round, 10th overall by the strong, well respected Riga Reign. The Reign valued Pengu’s potential and with that much I can agree. Constantly showing huge strides in his gameplay week by week really shows the skies the limit. Especially with how Pengu is, you can tell he is loyal to his team and how hard he’ll work. Even though it may be a gamble… it’s a darn good one!

Congrats to Pengu and the Las Vegas Aces, as well as the Riga Reign!

Pengu formerly of the Halifax 21st has found two new homes. For his development, he will continue to play in the VHLM but this time around it’s for a different team. After the VHLM Dispersal Draft, the young center found himself dropping all the way to Round 2, 17th pick overall. But it’s not exactly all bad news. The Las Vegas Aces is actually in a great position to win it all this season. With the steal of Pengu that late, the Aces find a lot of value for both sides of the rink.
 
The real Cinderella story is actually about where Pengu got drafted for the VHL. In S71’s entry draft Pengu was picked first round, 10th overall by the strong, well respected Riga Reign. The Reign valued Pengu’s potential and with that much I can agree. Constantly showing huge strides in his gameplay week by week really shows the skies the limit. Especially with how Pengu is, you can tell he is loyal to his team and how hard he’ll work. Even though it may be a gamble… it’s a darn good one!

Congrats to Pengu and the Las Vegas Aces, as well as the Riga Reign!

KRICE'S S71 VHLM DRAFT RANKINS: TOP 5
 
    Hello everyone, welcome to my top 5 draft rankings for the upcoming VHLM draft. I am going to rank my top five prospects and give a breakdown of each player and why I feel they deserve to be in that position. This is only my opinion and in no way shape or form does that make it right but I appreciate you taking the time to read it anyways. So with my first pick in the upcoming draft I would choose....
 
#1 - @Zyrok - 180 TPE
 
      Zyrok I have slotted in the number 1 position in this draft. The reason being is because he is a defenseman. Everyone is in dire need for a top defenseman and with the abundance of wingers in this league, I think the need for defenseman give Zyrok12 the edge. Zyrok has 180 TPE which isn't to far off the number one ranked Proto who currently sits at 195 TPE. He is a smooth skating offensive defenseman who split the last season between the Yukon Rush and Ottawa Lynx where he went to the Founder Cup finals where he ended up losing to the Minnesota Storm. When given top line minutes in the Yukon Zyrok was producing points at an alarming rate being that he was given top pairing minutes. When he made the move over to Ottawa he played less minutes and that's where we saw his point production drop off. Whomever takes Zyrok in this upcoming draft is going to be happy they did because this number 1 defenseman is going to be lighting up the scoreboard in season 71.
 
#2 - @Proto - 190 TPE
 
      Second on my list is Proto. Proto is coming off of a championship winning season with the Minnesota Storm. He was picked up as a waiver signing and contributed significantly as a supporting role player on a deep Minnesota team. This goal scoring winger is going to be getting a promotion this season as he will surely be playing top line minutes and ripping up this league before making the jump to the VHL. Proto had a modest 38 points in 66 regular season games but where he shined the most was in the post season. He racked up 18 points in 14 games during their championship run. I am sure the trait of stepping up when the games count the most is one that will get any GM excited to pick this player.
 
#3 - @McWolf - 170 TPE
 
      Third on my list is center SS Hornet. Centres are a vital piece of any team and SS Hornet has to be the best one available in this draft. He came into the league as a waiver signing late into the season but came in and dominated for Houston. He played 22 games and in those 22 games he scored 22 points including 6 goals. He made is impact right away for the Houston Bulls but when the playoffs came around he fizzled out a bit only scoring 3 points during their 8 games. Houston wasn't as deep as some of the other top VHLM teams so I wouldn't let SS Hornets stats in the playoffs scare you from taking a chance on this future elite centre. He is sure to step into the lineup next season and be the number 1 guy for the team that drafts him. 
 
#4 - @Pengu - 167 TPE
 
      Next on my list I have another centreman. Pengu centered the top line on the Halifax 21sts for the majority of the season. The 21sts were not a competitor this season but that gave ample opportunity for Pengu to rack up the points. In his first season as a waiver signing Pengu scored 62 points in 54 games played. He only scored 10 goals in that time but his 154 shots shows encouraging signs that his goal total will improve as long as he keeps shooting the puck. Another positive for the team who takes Pengu is that he is apparently a great locker room presence. If Halifax had the opportunity to move up and draft him I know they would in a heart beat as he left quite the impression on the team. 
 
# 5 - @Zetterberg - 149 TPE
 
     This last pick to round out the top 5 was a tough one for me to make. The reason I went with Ray Sheilds is because there is an abundance of wingers in this draft and in this league. Ray plays center and in my opinion you can not have to many of those. Ray played 57 games last season between Yukon and Houston. He went from playing first lines minutes and racking up points in the Yukon to playing a more shutdown role in Houston and his point totals reflect that. He had only 26 points those 57 games but was a +12 showing off the defensive side of his game. The team that drafts Ray will be getting a two way center that will contribute on both ends of the ice and can slot in on any teams top line for the next season or two. 
 
Honorable Mentions
 
      I wanted to take a second to mention others who could have easily slotted into the top 5. Robin Winter @Sonnet is an excellent goal scoring winger who I feel deserves a little spotlight. The only knock I have is that there is an abundance of wingers otherwise Robin is going to be an elite winger in the near future. Another player I wanted to mention is winger Valtteri Vaakanainen @Jubo07 and defenseman Randy Marsh @oilmandan who are going to be studs in the near future as well. 
      
       Well that wraps up my S71 VHLM Top Five Draft Rankings. I hope this gave you some insight on each player and why I think they deserve to be in the top 5. Again this is my opinion and I welcome you to comment below telling me who you think your top 5 would be! Thanks for tuning in!
 
 
 
WORD COUNT: 1000 WORDS

I'm afraid I can't let this game consume me again

I'm afraid I can't let this game consume me again

It's been quite an eventful few days here at the VHL. The Moscow Menace finally lifted the Continental Cup as league champions, defeating the Calgary Wranglers in six games. The Minnesota Storm held off a furious effort from the Ottawa Lynx to finish their season as Founder's Cup Champions. Some unnamed individual broke the Portal. But, at long last, it has been fixed and the new season can begin! Tomorrow, the next generation of VHL players will hear their names called as their professional hockey dreams become reality. And, as always, the VSN is here with another mock draft!
 
Myself, @Berocka, @McWolf, @Erik Summers, and special guest/scouting wizard @Patrik Tallinder have each predicted how the first two rounds of tomorrow's VHL Entry Draft will unfold. We then averaged out all five selections for each pick, using the averages to determine the picks for the final mock draft. But first, a quick disclaimer: This mock draft is made based on the draft picks held by VHL teams and the TPE earned by draftees as of March 13th, 2020. Any trades or updates made after that date are not reflected in this mock draft. 
 
And now, the Season 71 VSN Mock Draft!
 
 #1. Riga Reign 
Kyl Oferson | @Nykonax | C |
San Diego Marlins | TPE: 381
Doomsday: 1 | Berocka: 1 | McWolf: 1 | Summers: 2 | Tallinder: 1
 
With the first overall pick, the Riga Reign step to the podium with the daunting task of replacing the recently retired Ryan Kastelic. Fortunately for them, they can add the VHLM's most prolific centre with the top pick. Scoring 153 points (74 goals, 79 assists) with the San Diego Marlins last season, Oferson will have over 400 TPE before his first appearance with the Reign. He could see time at wing for his first season with Riga, but the Reign are extremely fortunate to add a franchise centre to replace Kastelic. Oferson is built to score, as noted with his 74 goals in the M last season and scouts speculate that he could have an instant impact in the VHL. As an added bonus, his agent doubles as the Assistant General Manager for Riga, making this an even easier decision for Benjamin Zeptembergs.
- Doomsday

 
 #2. HC Davos Dynamo 
Roque Davis | @Josh | D |
San Diego Marlins | TPE: 382
Doomsday: 2 | Berocka: 3 | McWolf: 2 | Summers: 1 | Tallinder: 2
 
The HC Davos Dynamo finished dead last in the regular season, a healthy 35 points behind the Riga Reign, but trades and lottery luck had it so that they are going to be the second team to call a name from the stage on draft night. However, Davos has the advantage of having an empty roster, bar defenseman Fernando Jokinen and goaltender Samuel Ross, so with this pick, they can’t go wrong with the TPE leader of this draft class and possible Mitch Higgins Trophy winner Roque Davis. Davis is just coming off a 118-assist, 154-point campaign, two marks that hadn’t been surpassed since Adam Warlock literally broke the VHLM in Season 58. As if his offensive performances weren’t enough, the Portuguese blueliner is a strong presence in his own zone, evidenced by his 108 shots blocked this past season. Plus, as if his resume wasn’t impressive enough, Davis and Davos are only one letter apart. It’s a match made in heaven.
- McWolf

 
 #3. Seattle Bears 
Ola Vikingstad | @Dil | C |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 364
Doomsday: 4 | Berocka: 2 | McWolf: 3 | Summers: 3 | Tallinder: 4
 
After three seasons at the top, it is finally time for the Bears to rebuild, or at least retool. That starts with Ola Vikingstad. Ola has lost in the Founder’s Cup finals two seasons in a row on two different teams. However, both of those teams may not have even sniffed those finals without him. This season, playing for the Ottawa Lynx, Vikingstad averaged over an assist a game and finished the season with one hundred and thirty points. This kid is all offence. Not every centre has to be a two hundred foot player, sometimes you just need someone to put pucks in the back of the net and Ola Vikingstad has delivered.
- Erik Summers

 
 #4. New York Americans 
Jim Bob | @jRuutu | LW |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 359
Doomsday: 3 | Berocka: 4 | McWolf: 6 | Summers: 5 | Tallinder: 3
 
The New York Americans finished just shy of the playoffs last season despite a big step forward in their rebuild, so how does Joel Ylonen spark his team with this pick? How about with a big, nasty forward in Jim Bob that can also make New York's young forwards even better? Bob's physical element to his game is his most noticeable impact, but in a league filled with goal scorers, Bob is one of the rare playmakers. He racked up 76 assists in the VHLM with the Ottawa Lynx last season, adding 16 goals for 92 points. His 336 hits were second in the entire VHLM, behind only Thomas Landry II. Jim Bob is a perfect fit for the New York Americans, who will surely gain a consistent contender for the Scott Boulet Trophy with this pick. 
- Doomsday

 
 #5. Prague Phantoms 
Stone Wolski | @DollarAndADream | G |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 366
Doomsday: 5 | Berocka: 7 | McWolf: 4 | Summers: 4 | Tallinder: 6
 
As Brick Wahl (the imitation) enters his final season, Prague's search for a replacement won't take long at all. General Manager Jason Glasser is projected to have the best goalie of the draft class, Stone Wolski, fall right into his lap at fifth overall, and it's hard to picture the Phantoms passing on him should this happen. Wolski would immediately be able to fill in nicely as a back-up in Season 71, with Wahl able to enjoy one last season while Wolski develops further. Boasting a rare save percentage over .900 in the VHLM with .915% with the Houston Bulls in Season 70, Wolski is simply a can't-miss prospect for a team like Prague that could really use him. 
- Doomsday

 
 #6. Helsinki Titans 
Thomas Landry II | @Doomsday | LW |
San Diego Marlins | TPE: 316
Doomsday: 6 | Berocka: 5 | McWolf: 5 | Summers: 8 | Tallinder: 5
 
The wings are currently a strength for Helsinki, but they lack many pure left-wingers. Landry II comes in and immediately solves that. With Bennett likely being ready for S72, the left side will soon look much more impressive. A menacing opponent, Landry II will hit everything that moves, while still playing with an electrifying offensive ability that was nearly impossible to stop in the VHLM this season. His 60 goals and 145 points this season were incredible, placing him at 4th in each of those categories among the draft class. His 372 hits also placed him at 1st in the entire league. He has never fallen below 14 TPE in any given week since being created and has earned 20+ in 8 of his 13 full weeks to date, which makes him a prospect any team would be ecstatic to have. 
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #7. D.C. Dragons 
Hugh Jass | @TheFlash | D |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 283
Doomsday: 8 | Berocka: 6 | McWolf: 7 | Summers: 6 | Tallinder: 8
 
Alright, this one probably doesn’t fit that much. The D.C. Dragons probably won’t be on the market for a defenseman, given their already depth blueline, but Hugh Jass is too good to pass with the 7th overall pick. The Canadian blueliner finished second to Roque Davis in points by VHLM defensemen and in assists last season. But if there’s one aspect of the game in which he outshined the star defenseman: in his own zone. The Houston Bulls defenseman should be in the running for the Ryan Sullivan Trophy thanks to his impressive haul of 161 hits and 132 shots blocked, to go along with his 132 points. As I said, I don’t think D.C. is the best fit for a quickly developing defenseman, but still, you can’t go wrong with a two-way defenseman that can score at this pace while still having top-tier defensive awareness.
- McWolf

 
 #8. Vancouver Wolves 
Uhtred | @leafsman | RW |
San Diego Marlins | TPE: 288
Doomsday: 7 | Berocka: 8 | McWolf: 9 | Summers: 7 | Tallinder: 7
 
With their first pick in the draft, Vancouver chooses to bolster their forward group with a goal scorer as pure as they come, with Uhtred. His 68 goals placed him second in the draft class, and his 148 points ranked third. He has impressive speed and handles the puck with ease, which compliments his scoring instincts extremely well. Uhtred has earned 15+ TPE in 9 out of his 13 full weeks so far and has earned over 100 capped and uncapped TPE. The Wolves currently don’t have any promising forward prospects, and there’s no doubt he’d be a huge addition to their team immediately and for the future. 
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #9. Seattle Bears 
Joe Proto | @Proto | LW |
Minnesota Storm | TPE: 195
Doomsday: 9 | Berocka: 9 | McWolf: 8 | Summers: 9 | Tallinder: 9
 
Proto is likely to hear his name called the earliest on the draft day among all first gens, and for good reason. Ever since joining, he’s been extremely active on the forums and has earned an abundance of TPE in just a short time. He has wasted no opportunities for TPE, earning every possible capped TPE so far. He still has a season to go before being ready for the VHL, but after likely dominating the VHLM next season, he is on the trajectory to greatness. His presumed dominance is by no means farfetched, with his impressive TPE earning and a playoff performance where he really came alive. He posted 18 points and 72 shots in only 14 games. If that’s an indication of what’s to come, Seattle will be thrilled with their selection. 
-Patrik Tallinder

 
 #10. Riga Reign 
Joakim Bruden | @PadStack | G |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 245
Doomsday: 10 | Berocka: 10 | McWolf: 10 | Summers: 10 | Tallinder: 10
 
The Reign have been a contender for some time now and it is hard not to feel like their window could be closing. However, with a top of cap space that window could easily be extended for a few more seasons. Assuming Finn Davison stays on for his final season, they will be looking to acquire his replacement in soon and Joakim Bruden could be the perfect fit. Bruden didn’t have an easy go of it in the VHLM, but he played a role in propelling Ottawa to the finals. If he lands in Riga, he will have an entire season as a backup to bring his game to the VHL level and make his case as a franchise goalkeeper. 
- Erik Summers
 
 #11. Toronto Legion 
Erik Killinger | @Peace | LW |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 373
Doomsday: 11 | Berocka: 11 | McWolf: 11 | Summers: 11 | Tallinder: 11
 
Toronto looks well-positioned to transition into a prosperous era for the team and the arrival of Erik Killinger is a big part of that. After winning a cup with Saskatoon in his first season in the VHLM, Killinger tried to carry the Houston Bulls to a similar fate. They fell short of the finals, but Erik showed flashes of excellence throughout the playoffs. A special-teams specialist, Killinger had twelve power-play and two shorthanded goals in S70. Don’t be surprised if he is making noise in the Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy race next season. 
- Erik Summers

 
 #12. Moscow Menace 
Zyrok12 | @Zyrok | D |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 180
Doomsday: 12 | Berocka: 13 | McWolf: 12 | Summers: 13 | Tallinder: 12
 
Zyrok12 is an android (probably?) defenseman that possesses all the tools to be one of the next generation’s great offensive blueliners. He possesses deceptive speed, a good offensive zone vision and, most importantly, he has one of this draft class’ best slapshots. Add to that a knack for making clutch defensive stops, and you get a defenseman who’s solid on both sides of the ice. His downside compared to most players selected earlier is that he might need one more season down in the VHLM before he can make the jump to the big leagues, which makes him a particularly interesting player for the most recent winners of the Continental Cup. In fact, the Moscow Menace are in a position where they’ll gladly select a player that can help them repeat their success down the line, without disturbing their tight cap situation this upcoming season.
- McWolf

 
 #13. Moscow Menace 
Pengu | @Pengu | C |
Halifax 21st | TPE: 167
Doomsday: 14 | Berocka: 14 | McWolf: 13 | Summers: 14 | Tallinder: 13
 
A first-gen player with legitimate star potential, Pengu has not been around for long but is quickly making a name for himself as a prospect. He has experience in other sim leagues, making him less of a risky option for Moscow, especially at 13. He has averaged around 21 TPE per week to kick off his career, including 73 in his last 3 full weeks. His 52 assists this season placed him at 10th overall in this draft class, even while his season was abbreviated by 18 games due to joining late. This pick helps diversify Moscow’s prospect pool as well, with Aleelee Kiak being a winger, and the previously selected Zyrok12 being a defenseman. 
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #14. Helsinki Titans 
Adam Syreck | @Spade18 | LW |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 182
Doomsday: 13 | Berocka: 12 | McWolf: 16 | Summers: 12 | Tallinder: 23
 
In his first full season in the VHLM, Adam Syreck put up 68 points (29 goals, 39 assists) with the Ottawa Lynx after playing in only six VHLM regular-season games in Season 69 (nice). In last year's draft class, Syreck would have been a first-round pick, but in this deeper class, he drops into the second round, where VSN has projected the Helsinki Titans to select him. After losing future Hall of Famer Julian Borwinn to retirement and with Kronos Bailey further deteriorating with Quik gone, Syreck is a very solid addition. He'll need another season in the VHLM, but once Bailey is retired, Syreck will be ready to fill that roster spot. His work ethic has been a bit erratic this month, but being drafted in the bigs could prove to be a spark for him. 
- Doomsday

 
 #15. HC Davos Dynamo 
Richard Penisson | @bluesfan55 | C |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 155
Doomsday: 16 | Berocka: 15 | McWolf: 18 | Summers: 16 | Tallinder: 15
 
Ah, a meme name. He’d fit just right in Davos. The BloosFan player agency is no stranger to representing successful Icelandic forwards, as Arnor Sigurdsson excelled in a depth role with the Riga Reign in the mid-to-late 60s. Richard Penisson seemed to be poised for a successful run in the VHL as well. His growth rate and skill set might be reminiscent of a future depth player, but if he lands in Davos, the centerman will be given every opportunity to succeed right off the gate, as they desperately need talent at every position. Penisson’s wrist shot is as accurate as virtually anyone’s from this draft class, and he gives himself tons of opportunities to score with his speed and puck handling skills.
- McWolf

 
 #16. HC Davos Dynamo 
Xavier leFlamant | @BarzalGoat | RW |
Philadelphia Reapers | TPE: 168
Doomsday: 15 | Berocka: 21 | McWolf: 14 | Summers: 15 | Tallinder: 22
 
This, I believe, is the pick that the VSN is the most conflicted on. Personally, I think this is a great fit for Davos if leFlamant can continue to progress. As you get into the second round, finding the right guy can get difficult, but Xavier leFlamant is a real gem of the second round in my opinion. The Philadelphia Reapers were largely carried by their goaltending this season, but their top line could be truly deadly at times. It will be interesting to see if the Dynamo’s fresh GM will be willing to take the chance on a player like leFlamant. 
- Erik Summers

 
 #17. Malmo Nighthawks 
Ray Sheilds | @Zetterberg | C |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 147
Doomsday: 22 | Berocka: 20 | McWolf: 15 | Summers: 17 | Tallinder: 14
 
Do you know what I said about leFlamant being the most conflicted pick? This is the one that makes that a tight race. On the face of it, I think this is the most interesting pick of the second round. Sheilds has been consistently improving and certainly shows star potential, but he is very new to the league and it is highly unknown as to whether he will keep up his pace. I could see a team getting aggressive and taking him very early in the second round, or he may fly under the radar and become an absolute steal for some lucky team later in the draft. 
- Erik Summers

 
 #18. New York Americans 
Rich Dickbutt McFudderdudder | @Weretarantula | D |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 127
Doomsday: 17 | Berocka: 17 | McWolf: 19 | Summers: 20 | Tallinder: 19
 
New York, after already adding a hard-hitting forward with their first pick, elects to go for the 5’5” defenseman, McFudderdudder. The Swiss teenager has a great defensive mind, and handles the puck with exceptional poise, leading to mistakes being a rarity for him. This reflects in his astonishing +83 rating this season with the Lynx. To add onto this, his powerful shot creates offensive chances frequently, with him totalling 37 points in S70. Similar to two of New York’s picks in last season’s draft, the Gutzwiler twins, McFudderdudder inspires confidence from team management because of his consistency in earning TPE. He has done welfare and press conferences every week since joining, always earning at least 8 TPE. 
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #19. Seattle Bears 
Bob Helminen | @Bob Helminen | LW |
Halifax 21st | TPE: 133
Doomsday: 20 | Berocka: 22 | McWolf: 22 | Summers: 19 | Tallinder: 16
 
One of the feel-good stories of the Halifax 21st this past season, "Big Bob," as his teammates called him, had himself an impressive first season in the league. Scoring 74 points (38 goals, 36 assists), good for just over a point per game is certainly impressive for a first-year player. Helminen is geared to be a shoot-first type of player and he is certainly off to a good start with his build. Although he has been a welfare player thus far, his activity is consistent and Helminen will make a good addition to any team. Seattle, in particular, will like adding Big Bob, especially considering he won't add to their cap woes in Season 71 due to needing another season in the VHLM. Keep an eye out for Helminen in Season 72! 
- Doomsday

 
 #20. HC Davos Dynamo 
Gary Neal | @LittleRiDog | LW |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 122
Doomsday: 24 | Berocka: 24 | McWolf: 17 | Summers: 23 | Tallinder: 21
 
A well-balanced scoring forward, Gary Neal is consistent and effective in all facets of the game. His build is put together well and makes him a versatile threat to his opposition. He put up a solid 20 goal, 41 point season with Houston in S70, and those numbers will likely rise considerably next season if he continues progressing how he has so far. Not only is he consistent on the ice though, but in earning TPE as well. He has averaged 11 TPE over his last 8 full weeks, never dipping below 8. Davos has a pretty nice addition to their prospect pool here, with Neal entering the VHL as early as S72. 
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #21. Vancouver Wolves 
Jeff Blaze | @NyQuil | RW |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 151
Doomsday: 21 | Berocka: 16 | McWolf: 21 | Summers: 18 | Tallinder: N/A
 
At this point, Jeff Blaze has the 18th most TPE of all eligible draftees, but our mock draft has him fall to the 21st pick, currently held by the Vancouver Wolves. On first look, Blaze looks like a solid all-around offensive player, with the tools to make it as a top-tier playmaker or as a top-tier sniper, as exemplified by his 22-goal, 32-assist statline from last season. So why does he end up falling down 3 spots compared to his ranking? For starters, while he ranks as the 18th prospect at the moment, some lower-ranked players seem to be developing faster and rapidly catching up with him. Then, while his toolset seems to suggest he might become a strong offensive asset, his indecisiveness when it comes to passing or shooting might actually be seen as a weakness. He’d probably be held in higher regard by the different General Managers if he committed to one of the two.
- McWolf

 
 #22. Vancouver Wolves 
Big Chungus | @Ferda | D |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 125
Doomsday: 23 | Berocka: 23 | McWolf: 23 | Summers: 21 | Tallinder: 24
 
After cruising through the regular season, the Vancouver Wolves' lack of defensive depth caught up with them in a stunning upset in the first round to the Seattle Bears. How can Keaton Louth address that, you say? How about adding a 6'8, 250-pound defenseman late in the second round? Big Chungus has the potential to be a very unique player for Vancouver if he can continue to develop. He scored 17 goals, with 16 assists for 33 points for the Ottawa Lynx last season, showing a powerful shot from the blue line. His responsible defensive play, along with his consistent work ethic makes Chungus a really nice selection late in the second round, although he will need another season in the M to further develop. Perhaps he can make more use of his massive frame and become a fearsome hitter to go with that slap shot? 
- Doomsday

 
 #23. Moscow Menace 
Bo Burrows | @Walter Fizz | D |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 118
Doomsday: 19 | Berocka: 19 | McWolf: N/A | Summers: 24 | Tallinder: N/A
 
Bo Burrows certainly feels like a second-round player, but it is very hard to place where he belongs and I think that is why he has nearly fallen to the third. He has a very physical playstyle and spent a lot of his time in Houston sitting in the penalty box, but he still managed to put up thirty-two points. His most impressive stat, by far, is the +/- of sixty-nine (nice). His playoff performance was a little lack-lustre, but he will have another whole season in the minors to improve and could become a special talent as time goes on. 
- Erik Summers

 
 #24. Moscow Menace 
Gavin Harris | @BigIrish | D |
Mississauga Hounds | TPE: 121
Doomsday: 18 | Berocka: 18 | McWolf: N/A | Summers: N/A | Tallinder: N/A
 
And there we have it, the last pick of our mock draft. The lack of time between the end of the season (the portal fuck up) and the Entry Draft has prevented us from going all-in and adding a third-round, but two rounds is still good, I guess. We are closing this with the Moscow Menace’s fourth selection of the event, stand-at-home defenseman Gavin Harris. Harris is one of the best - if not the best - defensive defenseman of this whole draft class, as evidenced by his impressive haul of 173 hits and 134 shots blocked. He is one of few blueliners from this new generation who’s not afraid to do the dirty work, while not focusing too much on getting his name on the scoresheet. That being said, the American blueliner still has a knack for finding open teammates, giving them easy setups. All in all, Harris plays the most unselfish kind of hockey, which is fairly uncommon in the VHL, and any team would be lucky to get a guy like him on their team.
- McWolf
 
Best of luck to all teams and draftees this year!
 
Love, VSN

Hey thanks for tuning into my segment. My name’s Pengu and I played center for the Halifax 21st last season. Today’s episode is going to be a typical day for me. Just to give you an idea of what it’s like playing for a VHLM team. Hopefully you get to know a bit more about me as well.
 
Well, first off I usually go out in the morning to my favourite breakfast spot. Black Sheep Restaurant. I’m not sponsored but hey if you’re listening hit me up eh? It has a great vibe with it’s decor and atmosphere. The food is great, I get the good ol’ breakfast burger with a craft. Got to enjoy the little things right.

After that I make it back in team for practice with the boys. Our coach Dil is great, and no one’s ever late. Playing the line with Bob and Kazimir has been great. We work hard especially cause the practice is never easy. If you ain’t hurting then you ain’t working you know?

After that we ice up, watch some replays, talk strategies and I fall asleep right after. It’s exhausting, and whatever days I get off is usually some promo stuff. But anyways, thanks for tuning in!

1. Will you spend another season in the VHLM or graduate to the VHL next season?
2. Which team do you hope to get drafted by?
3. When filling out forms, what do you put in the section for first name? 
4. Looking at your stats, seems you’re a pass first player. Do you plan to continue that method of play or hope to bury a few more in your career? 
5. Do you have any pre-game rituals and if so what are they? 
6. What is your go to goal celebration? 

Oh poop missed the signup eh

The Flightless Bird will Learn to Fly

 
Pengu’s VHLM career has been an exciting one this season as he soon faces the upcoming draft. Joining in Season 71 as a promising center, Pengu stands 6’1” tall, weighing in as 192 lbs, and at the age of 19 he shows a lot of potential. His style of play focuses on play making with great defense, awesome passing, good skating, puck handling, and passable scoring. He developed his shot a bit late in the season.

After 54 games played, Pengu managed 52 assists and 10 goals. His +/- is -25 but his team very much needed his opportunity creating to stand a chance. Pengu managed 2 of his goals as PPGs, and has 87 shots blocked. This defensive play maker has a great foundation for any team. When asked about his development Pengu responded, “I can’t say I’m happy with my results but I’m proud of what I could accomplish. I think it’s a sign of a great competitor to always strive for more. And, with this season being over for the 21st I’m going to use this time to improve my shot. Really taking off the pressure from my wings and scoring more goals, I think, is the best way right now for me to help my team out. Of course, I’m always going to be looking for opportunities for my teammates and I’ll make sure to keep my passing top notch.”
 
This promising center was able to play on the legendary Halifax’s 21st team on the first line with Kazimir Komarov, and Bob Helminen. The team went strong for a couple of pick ups but ultimately fell short of play offs. They secured a lot of surprising wins, and played very well but the more composed teams beat them out. We asked Pengu how his experience has been with Halifax. “Yeah, It’s a great environment. Our coach, Dil, is a great leader and teacher. He keeps the locker room really fun and really brings our teammates together. I have to say it was very fun to play for him. It sucks we didn’t make the play offs but that’s what happens sometimes. Anyone who thinks our team is a joke has another thing coming. Our guys are hard workers and I wouldn’t be surprised if they get picked up ASAP.”

With this season’s conclusions all Pengu can do is wait for the draft. Unsure of what team will pick him up Pengu will continue his training and trying to gain physique along with skill to make himself a valuable asset. We asked Pengu, are there any teams you’d like to play for? “Well, honestly, I’m happy with any team that needs me. I’m not sure I want to play second fiddle after being in the Halifax 21st’s spotlight. But, if I have to adapt and compete for the starting line… so be it. I’m not afraid.”

Best of luck Pengu, we hope for the best!