SweatyBeaver

It's your friendly neighborhood muffin here, announcing this season's Las Vegas Aces captains! These players exemplify the qualities the Aces look for: leadership, toughness, and a taste for risk. They will surely make new mascot Jack Pot proud as they lead this year's Las Vegas squad into the new season!
 
But enough with the rambling, let's get to the action!
 
THE CAPTAIN
 

@Spartan
 
THE ALTERNATES
 

@Poptart
 

@SweatyBeaver
 
Congrats everybody, I look forward to assistant GMing this squad and this great group of leaders!

1. How has your training regimen changed with what's going on in the world now?
   Where I am from in Belgium we really do not care about the sickness so I have been able to train to the fullest
2. Who's got your vote for team captain this season and why?
   I have only been on the team for a day and I can already see that Letang is the locker room leader
3. What skill have you improved the most this offseason?
   I hope that my defensive play will be better, I do not want to be -46 again
4. Returning players, who are you most excited to play with and why? Or new draftees, which Las Vegas vet are you looking forward to playing with the most and why?
   I just want to find some line mates that I can party the night away with
5. In your eyes, what would the Las Vegas Aces mascot look like?
   A giant slot machine
6. What would be your biggest goal heading into the beginning of the season?
   I want to be a team player and help this team thrive and be near the top of the league

VHL Top 25 Players
 
Part 1: 25-21
 
S72 has already started and VSN is back here again to rank and show who we think is going to be the best player of S72! There are amazing new candidates and many older players who are all showcasing their strengths and immense talent so be ready for our next iteration of VSN's Top 25!
 
This season, VSN Editor-in-chief @FrostBeard, writers @Doomsday, @Erik Summers, and @Patrik Tallinder, along with voice and video masters @Berocka and @Esso2264 and also with our distinguished guest @rjfryman ranked and debated who is going to be the top dog in Season 72. They are joined by @Mr_Hatter, VSN's VHLM aficionado, for the write-ups. Part 1 will feature two amazing defencemen and three brilliant forwards out of whom one has just recently decided to switch up everything that he was known for to help his team succeed. 

 
25. Tyler Barabash Jr, C 
 
And with the first entry on our list, we have Tyler Barabash Jr, the Calgary Wrangler’s franchise centre. A consistent scorer, Barabash has hovered around a PPG for much of his career, despite a few dips in form. Now reaching the twilight of his career, the Wranglers will hope his veteran presence can inspire the franchise to a return to their S70 form that saw them reaching the Continental Cup Finals.. If the Canadian can post a point per game in his penultimate season, something he narrowly missed out on in S71, that will be a huge success for the Wranglers. Barabash is a scorer, first and foremost, having reached over 30 goals per season in three of the past four, and led the team in goals in each of those three seasons. His S70 performance was so instrumental to the Wranglers success that he almost doubled the next highest goalscorer for his team, leading the Wranglers to second place in the North American Conference. Barabash is a disciplined player but isn’t afraid to lay into the hits. Last season only three other players had more hits while racking up fewer penalty minutes, showing just how much of an on-ice presence he can be. With Calgary transitioning their core to the next generation, this leadership will be vital to the Wrangler’s success in the coming seasons. 
Mr_Hatter
24. Owen Nolan, RW
 
New York’s assistant captain, Owen Nolan, has developed perfectly up to this point in his career. While he started out with 10 goals and 6 assists in his rookie season, the Irish winger has seen those numbers increase each and every season since then. Three seasons later, this trend has continued and has led to his team-leading 35 goals and 73 points in S71. His 38 assists were also a career-high, proving his growth as a complete offensive threat. Nolan ranks first among the entire S68 draft class in goals and is one of its top point scorers as well. What has allowed him to perform at such a high level is his exceptional ability to keep possession of the puck. His skill set with the puck consists of some deceptive hands, as well as fantastic puck protection. He has a quick first step, allowing him to leave unsuspecting defenders in the dust, and an accurate shot to top it all off. His versatility as a forward is just another reason why he is so valuable to the Americans. His skillfulness at the faceoff dot allows for him to be an option at centre or wing, and his nearly identical number of goals and assists proves his ability to thrive as a sniper and playmaker. If Owen Nolan remains with New York, it isn’t all that far-fetched to think he could end up a top 3 all-time goal scorer within that franchise.
Patrik Tallinder

Tied-22. Charlie Paddywagon, D

Calgary Wranglers have been quite happy to have Charlie Paddywagon on their team considering that after a trade that sent him from Davos to Calgary he has been playing the best hockey of his career. Last season Paddywagon had the best statistical season of his career with 56 points, 140 hits and 116 shots blocked. Even though his career in terms of point totals and other statistical categories might not be considered on an all-star level, he still is a great contributor and has the ability to take over games. His defensive game is still improving and even though Charlie has already passed the point when his career would be considered at its peak, he still can produce and be one of the most wonderful and captivating players to watch. His role as a leader is important for Calgary and his skillset throughout this season will be an important part of Calgary’s ability to make playoffs. One thing is for sure, Paddywagon has all the tools to be a brilliant two-way defenceman, a high-quality passing defenceman who can outplay his opposition because of his immense ability to move the puck elegantly and fiercely at the same time.
 
FrostBeard
Tied-22. Jerry Garcia, LW
 
Although Jerry Garcia has enjoyed a stellar reputation as one of the VHL's best defensive players during his career with Malmo, accolades always eluded him due to his offensive output. After scoring 31 points in his rookie season, he has never produced below 40 points. After a brilliant Season 68, in which he Garcia scored ten goals along with 50 assists for 60 points, both he and the Malmo Nighthawks have struggled to reproduce the glories of Season 68. While his defensive prowess alone was likely enough to secure him a place in the Top 25, it's his potential for Season 72 that really solidifies his ranking here. As Garcia heads into the twilight of his career, he has completely reinvented himself. Now with the HC Davos Dynamo, he will be suiting up at left wing, and his new build looks capable of dealing some serious damage. Garcia's career-best 11 goals in Season 69 (nice) could be smashed within the first 20 games. With Acyd Burn and ACL Tear on the team now as well, the foundation is set for veteran presences to lead the way while Davos' next-generation develops under them. While Jerry Garcia has always been an underrated player, at left-wing, he may finally begin to garner the universal respect on the ice that he receives off of it. 
 
Doomsday
21. Cinnamon Block, D
 
After holding the leading spot for points among defensemen going into the final weeks of last season, Cinnamon Block fell just off her pace at the end to come in third in that regard. Block did that as an extreme playmaker with fifty-seven assists. On top of the impressive offensive numbers, she also had one of the best defensive seasons as well. With one-hundred and sixty-six hits, one-hundred and fifteen shots blocked, and a plus nineteen on the year, Cinnamon was well in the running for the Jake Wylde. This season is going to be a big one for this defender entering her prime as she is now the biggest star on the Phantoms’ roster and entering a contract year where she would undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after free-agents if she decides to go that route. Over the past two seasons, we have seen Block’s production on offence increase while her physicality has settled down. One thing that has allowed that shift if the incredible blue-line Prague has put together, supporting Block with the likes of Seabass Perrin and Wolf Stansson Jr. I expect that trend to continue as she makes a run at scoring leader among defenders, or perhaps the league, this season.
Erik Summers
 
Do you think VSN got it right? Do you think anyone else should be on this list? If so, post in the comments and debate it all! Truly talented and highly successful players coming up next!

People mentioned: @Bushito, @studentized, @DMaximus, @GustavMattias, @Acydburn, @Quik, @omgitshim, @Cornholio, @Seabass

@Jayrad28  So funny story...

@Jayrad28  So funny story...

May 16th, 2020. 3 PM. Alex Letang sat nervously in his apartment, watching his phone sitting on his desk, waiting for it to buzz. Amid a busy day of moving out of his apartment, he made time to tune into legendary streamer @Esso2264's stream of the S72 VHL Draft. Letang had heard from multiple GM's over the past week, almost all of whom ensured he'd be a first round pick. But to Letang, where he went mattered.
 
As a 3rd round pick in the S71 VHLM Draft, Letang had a lot of work to do in order to even be considered a top talent in the draft. Joining the eligible draft pool just mere days before the draft, very few GM's knew much about him. However, Las Vegas took a gamble on him, and the work he put in was consistent. Letang rose to the 10th or 11th best prospect in terms of TPE earning, and one of the top first-gens available. On draft day, all the work he had put in would finally get rewarded. But he still had to wait for the call.
 
At 2:45, simply 15 minutes before the draft began, the phone buzzed. Letang jumped, not expecting a DM that soon. The name on the notification read "@Victor." The mysterious blue whom Letang had never spoken to, had just sent a message introducing himself. The two began some idle chit chat, only sending about 8 messages total, before the conversation died out as the draft began. 
 
The first few picks went as expected, with Hornet and Winter both going to Davos, with Mitchell also going to Calgary. Vancouver, a team that had expressed interest in Letang, went with Digiannantonio at 4, a bold choice considering the history between the GM and the player. LVA teammates went at 5 and 6, and this is where Letang went on edge. Vancouver had expressed a strong interest in Letang, and they were back on the clock here. Although the 11th best prospect, Letang was hopeful that he would be chosen that soon. However, in a pick that wasn't very surprising, Vancouver went with Jungkok. Malmo was up next, but was a team Letang hadn't been in contact with. With the first shocker of the draft, Malmo selected Kamenov, a player many expected to be available at Malmo's next pick in the 2nd round. 
 
And now, it was Moscow on the clock. Top talents such as Lucas Brandt, Timothy Brown, and Andrew Su were all still in play. Letang continued watching his phone, waiting for any kind of communication. Unsurprisingly though, the pick was Brandt, Letang's fellow first-gen player. Helsinki took their GM player at 10, and then it was back to stressing. Letang had previously thought his floor was at 9, where both Vancouver and Davos had both held picks. But now he was slipping, and Su and Brown were still available. Letang was preparing to be the one to slide into the 2nd round, when his phone finally buzzed. It was an invite from Victor, with no words necessary. Alex Letang was a Moscow Menace!
 
The real grind starts now.

 
Word Count: 523
 
 

Pleased to announce this seasons captains as voted by the team.
 
 
Captain - Julius Freeman @rjfryman   Assistant Captain - Jeff Downey @JeffD   Assistant Captain - Jimmy Spyro @DarkSpyro  

@Jayrad28  So funny story...

I will throw my name in there as well! Being a First Gen player I have really appreciated the VSN and the content it bring and would enjoy writing for it and getting other First Gen players excited and invested in the leagues

The VHLM entry draft was anything but predictable, including the obvious top pick Lucas Brandt falling to 4th. But perhaps there was not a bigger surprise than the Belgian Beauty himself falling all the way to pick number 20. Gregg Stallion came into the draft as the 6th ranked skater but pick after pick went by without Stallion being chosen.
 
The real question is why did the Houston Bulls superstar who got 95 point in 68 games go later than players who barely reached 20 points last season? Why did the general managers reach past the obvious talent Stallion possessed to instead reach for players who would be lucky if they hit 50 points?
 
The answer lies in a video that surfaced hours before the draft that depicted a shirtless and clearly drunk Stallion riding through Houston on the back of a Clydesdale horse. It occurred after one of the infamous Houston Bulls post game drinking parties and this one went a little extreme. Stallion barreled down the streets topping out at 45mph all while yelling incoherently and causing thousands of dollars in property damage. The video then showed Stallion losing control of his Clydesdale and veering into a local rabbit sanctuary causing the deaths of hundred of rabbits before he crashed into a concrete wall ending up with short term amnesia and forgetting the incident ever happened.
 
An anonymous source kept the video until hours prior to the draft where they leaked it to the VHLM gms who were shocked and appalled by the incident and dubbed it #Stalliongate. “I am not drafting him, he killed a lot of bunnies.” an emotional Gm told reporters, “I am just going to draft a less skilled player because I cannot allow a serial bunny killer onto my team.” The Gm said storming out to cry alone. Meanwhile Las Vegas Aces Gm Proto had a little chuckle while watching the video. “I hate bunnies, I am so drafting this guy if these sensitive idiots refuse to draft him.” He said enroute to drafting the disgraced hockey star.

The VHLM entry draft was anything but predictable, including the obvious top pick Lucas Brandt falling to 4th. But perhaps there was not a bigger surprise than the Belgian Beauty himself falling all the way to pick number 20. Gregg Stallion came into the draft as the 6th ranked skater but pick after pick went by without Stallion being chosen.
 
The real question is why did the Houston Bulls superstar who got 95 point in 68 games go later than players who barely reached 20 points last season? Why did the general managers reach past the obvious talent Stallion possessed to instead reach for players who would be lucky if they hit 50 points?
 
The answer lies in a video that surfaced hours before the draft that depicted a shirtless and clearly drunk Stallion riding through Houston on the back of a Clydesdale horse. It occurred after one of the infamous Houston Bulls post game drinking parties and this one went a little extreme. Stallion barreled down the streets topping out at 45mph all while yelling incoherently and causing thousands of dollars in property damage. The video then showed Stallion losing control of his Clydesdale and veering into a local rabbit sanctuary causing the deaths of hundred of rabbits before he crashed into a concrete wall ending up with short term amnesia and forgetting the incident ever happened.
 
An anonymous source kept the video until hours prior to the draft where they leaked it to the VHLM gms who were shocked and appalled by the incident and dubbed it #Stalliongate. “I am not drafting him, he killed a lot of bunnies.” an emotional Gm told reporters, “I am just going to draft a less skilled player because I cannot allow a serial bunny killer onto my team.” The Gm said storming out to cry alone. Meanwhile Las Vegas Aces Gm Proto had a little chuckle while watching the video. “I hate bunnies, I am so drafting this guy if these sensitive idiots refuse to draft him.” He said enroute to drafting the disgraced hockey star.

The VHLM entry draft was anything but predictable, including the obvious top pick Lucas Brandt falling to 4th. But perhaps there was not a bigger surprise than the Belgian Beauty himself falling all the way to pick number 20. Gregg Stallion came into the draft as the 6th ranked skater but pick after pick went by without Stallion being chosen.
 
The real question is why did the Houston Bulls superstar who got 95 point in 68 games go later than players who barely reached 20 points last season? Why did the general managers reach past the obvious talent Stallion possessed to instead reach for players who would be lucky if they hit 50 points?
 
The answer lies in a video that surfaced hours before the draft that depicted a shirtless and clearly drunk Stallion riding through Houston on the back of a Clydesdale horse. It occurred after one of the infamous Houston Bulls post game drinking parties and this one went a little extreme. Stallion barreled down the streets topping out at 45mph all while yelling incoherently and causing thousands of dollars in property damage. The video then showed Stallion losing control of his Clydesdale and veering into a local rabbit sanctuary causing the deaths of hundred of rabbits before he crashed into a concrete wall ending up with short term amnesia and forgetting the incident ever happened.
 
An anonymous source kept the video until hours prior to the draft where they leaked it to the VHLM gms who were shocked and appalled by the incident and dubbed it #Stalliongate. “I am not drafting him, he killed a lot of bunnies.” an emotional Gm told reporters, “I am just going to draft a less skilled player because I cannot allow a serial bunny killer onto my team.” The Gm said storming out to cry alone. Meanwhile Las Vegas Aces Gm Proto had a little chuckle while watching the video. “I hate bunnies, I am so drafting this guy if these sensitive idiots refuse to draft him.” He said enroute to drafting the disgraced hockey star.

The VHLM entry draft was anything but predictable, including the obvious top pick Lucas Brandt falling to 4th. But perhaps there was not a bigger surprise than the Belgian Beauty himself falling all the way to pick number 20. Gregg Stallion came into the draft as the 6th ranked skater but pick after pick went by without Stallion being chosen.
 
The real question is why did the Houston Bulls superstar who got 95 point in 68 games go later than players who barely reached 20 points last season? Why did the general managers reach past the obvious talent Stallion possessed to instead reach for players who would be lucky if they hit 50 points?
 
The answer lies in a video that surfaced hours before the draft that depicted a shirtless and clearly drunk Stallion riding through Houston on the back of a Clydesdale horse. It occurred after one of the infamous Houston Bulls post game drinking parties and this one went a little extreme. Stallion barreled down the streets topping out at 45mph all while yelling incoherently and causing thousands of dollars in property damage. The video then showed Stallion losing control of his Clydesdale and veering into a local rabbit sanctuary causing the deaths of hundred of rabbits before he crashed into a concrete wall ending up with short term amnesia and forgetting the incident ever happened.
 
An anonymous source kept the video until hours prior to the draft where they leaked it to the VHLM gms who were shocked and appalled by the incident and dubbed it #Stalliongate. “I am not drafting him, he killed a lot of bunnies.” an emotional Gm told reporters, “I am just going to draft a less skilled player because I cannot allow a serial bunny killer onto my team.” The Gm said storming out to cry alone. Meanwhile Las Vegas Aces Gm Proto had a little chuckle while watching the video. “I hate bunnies, I am so drafting this guy if these sensitive idiots refuse to draft him.” He said enroute to drafting the disgraced hockey star.

The VHLM entry draft was anything but predictable, including the obvious top pick Lucas Brandt falling to 4th. But perhaps there was not a bigger surprise than the Belgian Beauty himself falling all the way to pick number 20. Gregg Stallion came into the draft as the 6th ranked skater but pick after pick went by without Stallion being chosen.
 
The real question is why did the Houston Bulls superstar who got 95 point in 68 games go later than players who barely reached 20 points last season? Why did the general managers reach past the obvious talent Stallion possessed to instead reach for players who would be lucky if they hit 50 points?
 
The answer lies in a video that surfaced hours before the draft that depicted a shirtless and clearly drunk Stallion riding through Houston on the back of a Clydesdale horse. It occurred after one of the infamous Houston Bulls post game drinking parties and this one went a little extreme. Stallion barreled down the streets topping out at 45mph all while yelling incoherently and causing thousands of dollars in property damage. The video then showed Stallion losing control of his Clydesdale and veering into a local rabbit sanctuary causing the deaths of hundred of rabbits before he crashed into a concrete wall ending up with short term amnesia and forgetting the incident ever happened.
 
An anonymous source kept the video until hours prior to the draft where they leaked it to the VHLM gms who were shocked and appalled by the incident and dubbed it #Stalliongate. “I am not drafting him, he killed a lot of bunnies.” an emotional Gm told reporters, “I am just going to draft a less skilled player because I cannot allow a serial bunny killer onto my team.” The Gm said storming out to cry alone. Meanwhile Las Vegas Aces Gm Proto had a little chuckle while watching the video. “I hate bunnies, I am so drafting this guy if these sensitive idiots refuse to draft him.” He said enroute to drafting the disgraced hockey star.

The VHLM entry draft was anything but predictable, including the obvious top pick Lucas Brandt falling to 4th. But perhaps there was not a bigger surprise than the Belgian Beauty himself falling all the way to pick number 20. Gregg Stallion came into the draft as the 6th ranked skater but pick after pick went by without Stallion being chosen.
 
The real question is why did the Houston Bulls superstar who got 95 point in 68 games go later than players who barely reached 20 points last season? Why did the general managers reach past the obvious talent Stallion possessed to instead reach for players who would be lucky if they hit 50 points?
 
The answer lies in a video that surfaced hours before the draft that depicted a shirtless and clearly drunk Stallion riding through Houston on the back of a Clydesdale horse. It occurred after one of the infamous Houston Bulls post game drinking parties and this one went a little extreme. Stallion barreled down the streets topping out at 45mph all while yelling incoherently and causing thousands of dollars in property damage. The video then showed Stallion losing control of his Clydesdale and veering into a local rabbit sanctuary causing the deaths of hundred of rabbits before he crashed into a concrete wall ending up with short term amnesia and forgetting the incident ever happened.
 
An anonymous source kept the video until hours prior to the draft where they leaked it to the VHLM gms who were shocked and appalled by the incident and dubbed it #Stalliongate. “I am not drafting him, he killed a lot of bunnies.” an emotional Gm told reporters, “I am just going to draft a less skilled player because I cannot allow a serial bunny killer onto my team.” The Gm said storming out to cry alone. Meanwhile Las Vegas Aces Gm Proto had a little chuckle while watching the video. “I hate bunnies, I am so drafting this guy if these sensitive idiots refuse to draft him.” He said enroute to drafting the disgraced hockey star.

VHL Virtual Draft, May 16, 2020
Prospect Showcase: Gregg Stallion, Belgium.
 
It was a season that should have been an absolute disaster for the Houston Bulls, they had no right to be a competitive team but as the season progressed it became clear that the Bulls were an exciting team that was not able to get a lot of wins but it placed a spotlight on many players who thrived on the ice for a Bulls team that had no right to be as competitive as it was.
 
Arguably the standout player of the team was the 20 year old from Belgium; Gregg Stallion. Stallion came to the VHLM with many question marks and many people wondering if his skills would translate from a much lesser league into the highly competitive VHLM. “I had a lot of focus on me, and it added a lot of pressure to me coming over from Belgium.” Stallion stated in an exclusive interview. “At 17 some hockey videos of me went viral and people began to call me the ‘Belgian Beauty’ for some of the dekes and moves I was making, I was scared to get that much attention to be honest I felt like it added a ton of pressure for me to do well.” Sure enough on March 28th 2020 Gregg Stallion was able to go to the free agency for the VHLM, and received only one offer; from the tanking Houston Bulls.
 
“I was dissapointed to only get one offer to be honest but it made me want to prove all the teams that passed me over wrong.” Stallion set out to make teams regret not sending him an offer in the only way he knew how “I was going to score on them a lot” Stallion said laughing in the interview. Surely in retrospect all of the Gms wish they did what the Bulls did and simply send him an offer as Stallion thrived in Houston scoring at a better pace than many star players on other teams. By the time the season 72 VHL draft came around no one was going to overlook the Belgian Beauty anymore and he was drafted in the early second round by a Vancouver Wolves team that absolutely won the draft with there four top picks.
 
“I think the Wolves were able to draft a dynamic player who can score in all areas of the ice and play to help his line mates thrive, I am a very unselfish player and I want to see my team win in all circumstances.” Stallion said to a scouting panel. “That is a strength that I have, it comes from the way I was raised and the values my parents gave me, I am team first guy, I would rather do awful statistically but be able to help my team thrive than be a top player taking points away from my team and causing us to lose because of selfish plays.”
 
“I know I need to grow defensively and I need to get more accurate in my shooting but I also know that the Vancouver coaching staff and my teammates are going to help me grow in these aspects, I was draft by one of the top organizations in the league and I want to show them that they drafted the right guy, I am ready to win in Vancouver.” A visibly excited Gregg Stallion told the media minutes after getting drafted 15th overall. “Watch out Vancouver, The Belgian Beauty is coming soon.” Stallion said with a wide smile in between excited laughter.
603 Words

VHL Virtual Draft, May 16, 2020
Prospect Showcase: Gregg Stallion, Belgium.
 
It was a season that should have been an absolute disaster for the Houston Bulls, they had no right to be a competitive team but as the season progressed it became clear that the Bulls were an exciting team that was not able to get a lot of wins but it placed a spotlight on many players who thrived on the ice for a Bulls team that had no right to be as competitive as it was.
 
Arguably the standout player of the team was the 20 year old from Belgium; Gregg Stallion. Stallion came to the VHLM with many question marks and many people wondering if his skills would translate from a much lesser league into the highly competitive VHLM. “I had a lot of focus on me, and it added a lot of pressure to me coming over from Belgium.” Stallion stated in an exclusive interview. “At 17 some hockey videos of me went viral and people began to call me the ‘Belgian Beauty’ for some of the dekes and moves I was making, I was scared to get that much attention to be honest I felt like it added a ton of pressure for me to do well.” Sure enough on March 28th 2020 Gregg Stallion was able to go to the free agency for the VHLM, and received only one offer; from the tanking Houston Bulls.
 
“I was dissapointed to only get one offer to be honest but it made me want to prove all the teams that passed me over wrong.” Stallion set out to make teams regret not sending him an offer in the only way he knew how “I was going to score on them a lot” Stallion said laughing in the interview. Surely in retrospect all of the Gms wish they did what the Bulls did and simply send him an offer as Stallion thrived in Houston scoring at a better pace than many star players on other teams. By the time the season 72 VHL draft came around no one was going to overlook the Belgian Beauty anymore and he was drafted in the early second round by a Vancouver Wolves team that absolutely won the draft with there four top picks.
 
“I think the Wolves were able to draft a dynamic player who can score in all areas of the ice and play to help his line mates thrive, I am a very unselfish player and I want to see my team win in all circumstances.” Stallion said to a scouting panel. “That is a strength that I have, it comes from the way I was raised and the values my parents gave me, I am team first guy, I would rather do awful statistically but be able to help my team thrive than be a top player taking points away from my team and causing us to lose because of selfish plays.”
 
“I know I need to grow defensively and I need to get more accurate in my shooting but I also know that the Vancouver coaching staff and my teammates are going to help me grow in these aspects, I was draft by one of the top organizations in the league and I want to show them that they drafted the right guy, I am ready to win in Vancouver.” A visibly excited Gregg Stallion told the media minutes after getting drafted 15th overall. “Watch out Vancouver, The Belgian Beauty is coming soon.” Stallion said with a wide smile in between excited laughter.
603 Words

SCOUTING REPORT:
 
Liam was recently drafted sixteenth overall by the DC Dragons. Liam has played 1 season in the VHLM with the Philadelphia Reapers. In sixty-nine games played for the Reapers, Liam scored two goals and added twenty-nine assists. He finished the season also with seventy-one hits and was a plus twenty-three player. In the playoffs, Liam played his best hockey, by contributing five assists in seven games before they were eliminated in seven games by the Las Vegas Aces. Liam will look to imporve his game this next season in the VHLM before looking to be called up by his VHL club. 
 
PROS:
 
Poise: Liam has demonstrated an immense amount of poise and composure for such a young player. He was a rock for the Reapers in the playoffs, and never seemed to be too shaken up by the emotions of the game. He has a patient and calm personality which definitely translate to his game. This gives him the opportunity to not make many mistakes when the pressure is on.
 
Skating: Smooth skating defencemen is almost a must have in today's game of hockey, and Liam is no exception. He has an incredible stride, and can really take advantage of a forward that over commits to one side and burn right past him. We were able to watch him go end to end with his incredible speed and agility. Liam has game winning skating and we are sure that it will only imporve from here.
 
CONS:
 
Confidence: We have watched Liam sometimes hesitate when he has has the puck, and you can tell that he is debating whether or not he wants to pass the puck away, or skate past the forechecking forward. There is the occasional time where he is unsure about what he wants to do with the puck, and it has cost him in giving the puck away. Liam needs to become more assertive with the puck. He has the ability and know how to dominate from the backend, he just needs to get out of his head. 
 
Scoring: Liam definitely does not have a shot that is to be envied by other players. He only scored 2 goals on the season. His shot was inaccurate and slow. Liam has expressed that this was an area that he would like to improve this upcoming offseason, so it will be interesting to see if he contributes more to the score sheet this upcoming season. If he can improve his shot, Liam will be a deadly force on the ice. 

Season 72 VSN Mock Draft
 
Hello VHL, and welcome to one of the most entertaining and energetic days of the entire Victory Hockey League seasons: it's draft day! The Seattle Bears may have just won their third Continental Cup in four years, but they'll be facing plenty of new challenges soon. The HC Davos Dynamo have been in a rebuild, looking to rise like the mighty Phoenix. With three picks in the first four selections (with one since traded), today is the big day for General Manager Jerry Garcia. Today is a pivotal step for the Dynamo, but they won't be the only team that needs a big draft. The Vancouver Wolves need to make the most of their picks, for their aging forwards won't be able to chase cups forever. It's going to be a wild day, is what I'm getting at here.
 
As is annual tradition, the VSN is here with our annual mock draft! It's been a lot of work, a lot of pulled hair… but we wouldn't do it if we didn't enjoy it! @Doomsday, @Berocka, @Mr_Hatter, @Esso2264, @McWolf, @Erik Summers and @Patrik Tallinder have all come together to keep this tradition alive. The first two rounds have been ranked, with the average rankings determining our draft order. We've got a really quality draft class on our hands, and today they find their forever homes in the VHL.
 
And now, the Season 72 VSN Mock Draft!
 
DISCLAIMER: All draft picks/rosters do not reflect any transactions after MIDNIGHT on Thursday, May 14th, 2020.
 

 First Round 
 
 
 #1. HC Davos Dynamo 
SS Hornet | @McWolf | C |
Las Vegas Aces | TPE: 377
Hatter: 1 | Doomsday: 1 | Berocka: 1 | Esso: 1 | Summers: 2 | Tallinder: 1
 
The first overall pick is a selection that can sometimes change the direction of an entire team in mere seconds. After picking defender Roque Davis second overall in last season’s draft, the Dynamo look to add to the core of their team, with this season’s first and second overall selections. By taking Hornet first overall, they get a future superstar centre, who will serve as a great leader for an already impressive group of up-and-coming forward prospects. Hornet had an equal 41 goals and assists and added another 17 points in 12 games in the playoffs. He’s responsible in his own end, but his biggest strength is really his arsenal of scoring methods. With a lethal shot, some great hands, and some nice speed, Hornet has the tools to find ways around any defenseman. In terms of earning TPE, Hornet has done that unbelievably well. On top of earning every available capped TPE to this point, he has earned 19+ TPE in 10 of his 13 weeks so far. SS Hornet is a fantastic player, and Davos will be thrilled with what they receive from him.
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #2. HC Davos Dynamo (From NYA via SEA) 
Robin Winter | @Sonnet | LW |
Minnesota Storm | TPE: 325
Hatter: 2 | Doomsday: 2 | Berocka: 2 | Esso: 2 | Summers: 1 | Tallinder: 2
 
After adding SS Hornet with the first overall pick, Davos continues to build their forward core by adding Robin Winter with the second pick. After Winter's agent had numerous issues with the Calgary Wranglers' brash front office in the past, Jerry Garcia spares him from having to deal with them again. With Davos' rebuild now coming full circle, they need to build their forward core. With 57 goals and 120 points with the Minnesota Storm in the M last season, Robin Winter is a bonafide stud at left wing. After the extraordinary success of Roque Davis in Season 71, the HC Dynamo now will have similar potential with an up and coming group of forwards. Winter is already a skilled shooter, arguably already possessing a pro-grade shot. He's a solid skater and capable of avoiding hits, but his puck handling could lead to some growing pains until it improves. Either way, this is two can't-miss prospects in a row for Davos, whose rebuilding project simply could not be going any better. 
- Doomsday

 
 #3. Calgary Wranglers (From HSK) 
Latrell Mitchell | @dasboot | D |
Minnesota Storm | TPE: 303
Hatter: 4 | Doomsday: 3 | Berocka: 6 | Esso: 4 | Summers: 6 | Tallinder: 4
 
With the third overall pick, the Calgary Wranglers will almost certainly be in the market for a defenceman who can hop right into a starting spot. They currently only have three rostered defenceman, with no other prospects, and will be looking to fill that fourth spot with this pick. Luckily for them, they will have their pick of a few high TPE players. We see them going with Minnesota’s Latrell Mitchell. The Australian put up impressive numbers last season in the VHLM, scoring 81 points in 72 games; this was second-highest out of all S72 draftees for defencemen. Mitchell is built to compete in the VHL from the start, focusing on his defence and scoring ability. His skating and puck handling are particularly impressive for a player of his experience. There are some questions as to how he will adapt to the increased physicality of the VHL; he only registered 79 hits, compared to some of his competitors hitting in the 200s. Regardless, expect big things from the land down under coming up soon. Berocka Sundqvist who? 
- Mr_Hatter

 
 #4. Vancouver Wolves (From TOR via DAV) 
Gino DiGiannantonio | @pennypenny | RW |
Yukon Rush | TPE: 305
Hatter: 5 | Doomsday: 6 | Berocka: 3 | Esso: 5 | Summers: 7 | Tallinder: 3
 
 With the 4th overall pick, VSN experts and I think that the Vancouver Wolves will select sharpshooting right-winger Gino DiGiannantonio. If there's one thing that the American-born skater does well, it's to shoot the puck at the net. His wristshot's precision is matched only by the speed at which DiGiannantonio manages to unleash it. With both halves of the Wolves two-headed giant, Hunter Hearst Helmsley and Julius Freeman, entering the penultimate season of their respective career, it makes sense for the Western Canadian team to start looking at prospects with a knack for putting the puck in the back of the net, a feat which DiGiannantonio has done an impressive 58 times while dressing with the Yukon Rush last season. He has also shown that he can perform under pressure, scoring 12 goals and 9 assists over 15 games in the most recent playoffs. He was not able to carry his team to the conquest of the Founder's Cup, but this is more a testament to how strong the S72 roster of the Ottawa Lynx was. Some experts have suggested that the winger of Italian descent was a unidimensional player, a one-trick pony relying on his shot to set the value of his full game; the embodiment of a meme both on and off the ice. But upon watching his VHLM highlight reel, it was evident to me that he is literally never caught out of position in his own zone. Coupled with his above-average speed and puck-carrying abilities, this exceptional defensive awareness allows him to quickly counter-attack whenever he manages to steal the puck from his opponents. Give him some time to round out the rest of his game, and Gino DiGiannantonio will be a deadly weapon for the Vancouver Wolves before you manage to correctly spell his name.
- McWolf

 
 #5. Seattle Bears (From MAL) 
General Zod | @Matt_O | D |
Las Vegas Aces | TPE: 276
Hatter: 6 | Doomsday: 4 | Berocka: 4 | Esso: 8 | Summers: 3 | Tallinder: 5
 
In an era where most players learn to shoot before they learn to skate, General Zod's skillset is a breath of fresh air. The American blueliner absolutely shines in a defensive role. He is never caught out of position, is a skilled takeover artist, and he doesn't shy away from big hit opportunities. Most players nowadays enter the VHL with a defensively sound mindset, but it particularly resonates in the case of Zod, when you realize that it's mostly to the detriment of its offensive skills. While other prospects tighten their play in their own zone to complement their offensive performances, Zod is one of the very few defence-first players. While his shot is bad, even by VHLM standards, he has still been able to get on the scoreboard a lot last season. In fact, his haul of 65 assists shows that he's all but a liability as a quarterback, even without shooting much. The Seattle Bears, despite winning the last Continental Cup - and 3 of the last 4 - somehow managed to find a way to be picking a top 5 prospect once again. To be fair, they are the defending champions and their roster suggests that they should still be competitive next season, but the salary cap is going to hit them hard again soon. They'll need prospects at every position if they don't want to skip a beat and Zod, at this spot, is the best available.
- McWolf

 
 #6. Calgary Wranglers (From PRG) 
Randy Marsh | @oilmandan | D |
Las Vegas Aces | TPE: 278
Hatter: 3 | Doomsday: 5 | Berocka: 5 | Esso: 6 | Summers: 5 | Tallinder: 6
 
Although we predict that Calgary will take a defenseman with the third pick, it would almost be a crime for them to let Randy Marsh fall any further than sixth. And, with their wealth of offensive talent already on the roster, it makes sense that they may be looking to strengthen their blue line significantly in this draft. Built to produce at both ends of the ice, Marsh played a more solidly defensive role for the Las Vegas Aces last season. Randy played a big role in helping the Aces reach their first semi-final round since S67. He put up forty-six points, one hundred hits, and seventy-two shots blocked while playing a very disciplined style, earning just fifty-two penalty minutes last season. Hopefully, with the scoring capabilities, we have seen in spurts from the young defenseman, we will get to watch him have the opportunity to use those skills to their fullest potential. Wherever Randy Marsh ends up, he is certain to slot right into the roster and you should be prepared to see him make waves in the coming year.
- Erik Summers

 
 #7. Vancouver Wolves (From CGY via HSK) 
Jungkok | @tfong | RW |
San Diego Marlins | TPE: 249
Hatter: 7 | Doomsday: 8 | Berocka: 7 | Esso: 7 | Summers: 4 | Tallinder: 9
 
After grabbing Gino DiGiannantonio several selections ago, the Wolves continue to add prospects at forward by grabbing Jungkok here. The San Diego Marlins produced four first-round picks in the Season 71 VHL Entry Draft, they add another first-round selection in Season 72. It’s no secret that the Wolves will need  Jungkok soon, but it may not be this season. With him being just at the cutoff of VHLM eligibility, don’t be surprised if the Marlins get another season out of their latest first-round draftee. He’s a dangerous two-way player, recording 278 hits, 53 goals and 102 points for San Diego last season. Jungkok is certainly at a point where he could prove to be a solid depth player for Vancouver right now, but if the Wolves' roster is a bit full, General Manager Keaton Louth could allow him to season a bit more while space frees up. Regardless of where he spends Season 72, Jungkok, paired with Gino DiGiannantonio, look to be the next faces of the Vancouver Wolves, assuming these selections hold up.
- Doomsday

 
 #8. Malmo Nighthawks (From DCD via NYA 
Andrew Su | @Da_Berr | C |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 247
Hatter: 11 | Doomsday: 7 | Berocka: 8 | Esso: 9 | Summers: 8 | Tallinder: 7
 
Traded mid-season from the Mississauga Hounds to the Ottawa Lynx, Andrew Su has the rare seventy-three game season. In those games, he scored ninety-nine points with an excellent fifteen per cent shooting accuracy. He also played physically for a centre with one hundred and seven hits and sixty-seven shots blocked, proving himself as a true two hundred foot player. After joining the Lynx, Su quickly became an integral part of the championship team. The Lynx had a truly stacked roster, but no matter who is playing beside you, twenty playoff points shows a maturity you look for in young players. Andrews biggest strength is his shot, but goals are much harder to come by in the major league, so I would expect him to get off to a slower start in the VHL. However, with Malmo looking like they may want to retool now and wait for a window in a couple of seasons, that would be timed perfectly with the peak of Su’s development. If he does manage to maintain his offensive efficiency in the VHL, Andrew Su will be a very exciting player to watch in the coming season.
- Erik Summers

 
 #9. HC Davos Dynamo (From RIG via VAN) 
Alex Letang | @Spartan | D |
Las Vegas Aces | TPE: 215
Hatter: 8 | Doomsday: 11 | Berocka: 11 | Esso: 11 | Summers: 11 | Tallinder: 8
 
Coming up with the ninth pick in the draft, the Dynamo will start to look towards the blueline after solidifying their forward core with the first two picks of the draft earlier. The Ace’s Alex Letang will fill their prospect pool nicely, a high-potential player that only needs a little more development to be VHL-ready. This works well for Davos, as they have their defencemen more or less set for the coming season with the recent acquisition of Jerry Garcia. But with retirement looming for the former Malmo star, the Dynamo will want to look towards the future. Expect Letang to spend another season developing in the VHLM before he is ready to slot into Davos’ pairings. Letang is a pass-first defenceman, whose high hockey IQ will be an asset in any team. He can shut down opposing forwards with his confident play, and he has the speed and agility necessary to get in the passing lane and break up plays. He certainly needs development; despite decent production (15th in points for defencemen), his stats aren’t what you would hope for the 9th overall pick. What you are getting here is a value pick with a lot of talent and potential, and the drive to reach that potential. 
- Mr_Hatter

 
 #10. Helsinki Titans (From VAN) 
Valtteri Vaakanainen | @Jubo07 | LW |
Minnesota Storm | TPE: 341
Hatter: 10 | Doomsday: 10 | Berocka: 10 | Esso: 10 | Summers: 10 | Tallinder: 10
 
Helsinki claims Vaakanainen with the tenth overall pick, and they are able to do so because his user, Jubo07, is the General Manager of the Titans. This pick looks phenomenal for the team, given that in the scenario that they weren't able to select him in this way, he would be pushing for first or second overall. What he brings to the table is a strong, balanced forward who can score at will. Vaakanainen rarely turns the puck over, due to his fantastic puck control and strength on his skates. His scoring instincts are also elite, and he proved that in the regular season, with 49 goals and 97 points with Minnesota. The Finnish forward has earned every possible capped TPE, and close to an additional 100 uncapped TPE. Helsinki adds onto a solid group of wingers here, with names like Jim Bob, Erik Draven, Jared Spaz and Vladimir Shaposhnikov already in the mix. With Jubo’s last player recently being inducted into the Hall Of Fame, taking his next one will be a great and easy pick for the Titans.
- Patrik Tallinder
 
 #11. Moscow Menace 
Lucas Brandt | @twists | C |
Halifax 21st | TPE: 212
Hatter: 9 | Doomsday: 9 | Berocka: 12 | Esso: 12 | Summers: 12 | Tallinder: 12
 
After their repeat bid ended in a 4-1 defeat in the Continental Cup Finals to the Seattle Bears, the Moscow Menace will be a very different team moving forward. Smitty Werbenjagermanjensen and Gritty, two staples of the team, are gone, their rights traded to the Prague Phantoms over the off-season. Jet Jaguar isn’t getting any younger either, so the selection of Lucas Brandt here would make perfect sense. Brandt will likely need another season in the M to develop, but the first-generation player will likely factor in as soon as he makes the Moscow roster. A scoring threat that is responsible in his own end, he put up a very respectable 87 points in his first VHLM season, including scoring 41 goals. Brandt will need to work on protecting himself when he has the puck before he makes the jump to the bigs, as the young centre would make an excellent target for physical opponents. While no one at VSN slotted him to be taken here, Lucas Brandt to the Moscow Menace makes a lot of sense and I wouldn’t be surprised at all if it happened.
- Doomsday

 
 #12. Seattle Bears 
Spencer Elsby | @Spence King| D |
Philadelphia Reapers | TPE: 208
Hatter: 12 | Doomsday: 12 | Berocka: 9 | Esso: 13 | Summers: 13 | Tallinder: 11
 
And with the ultimate pick of the Seattle Bears, the VSN experts and myself think that the defending champions will select two-way defenseman Spencer Elsby. Now, I know we had the Bears selecting fellow blueliner General Zod with their previous pick and, while I think they should add at least one defenseman to their prospect pool via their two first-round selections, I suppose they wouldn't go with both Zod and Elsby; they're more likely to select a forward with one of the two. That being said, I also think that, with the shortage of quality blueliners in this draft class, I highly doubt that Elsby slips farther than the back-end of the first round, so let's pretend for a minute that the Finnish blueliner's name is called here. Elsby is a great all-around defenseman, who possesses great speed and an out-of-this-world hockey IQ. He's able to make strong plays both in the offensive and defensive zone. However, he's physically not as VHL-ready as some other prospects, as he rarely delivers pace-changing hits, and he's easily pushed around by opposing players. He might need one more season in the minors to develop his game and really grow as a professional athlete, but that might fit with the Bears' timeline, as their roster from last season is pretty much all returning to defend their title next season and the open spots for rookies are fairly limited.
- McWolf

 Second Round 
 
 
 #13. Vancouver Wolves (From DAV) 
DeFenz Mann | @Mike | D |
Ottawa Lynx | TPE: 200
Hatter: 14 | Doomsday: 14 | Berocka: 13 | Esso: 14 | Summers: 15 | Tallinder: 13
 
Now up to their third pick in the draft, Vancouver has already selected two forwards, and will likely want some variety in their selections. The best solution to this is picking the player who’s name is literally DeFenz Mann. Besides the name, Mann is a prospect who already possesses a very impressive resume in his young career. Not only did he win the Founder’s Cup with Ottawa, but he also had 22 more assists than anyone else in this draft class. If that wasn’t already enough to justify this pick, he was the only S72 defenseman to crack 100 points in the regular season, and lead the entire league in plus-minus too. Ironically, the French defender’s build is more geared toward a mobile two-way defenseman with a great shot, despite his assist numbers being so prevalent this season. Mann earns around 11 capped TPE per week, along with some uncapped TPE here and there. He will definitely be a big help on the blueline, and will almost surely hit the VHL ice by S73.
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #14. Helsinki Titans  
Timothy Brown | @a_Ferk | RW |
Saskatoon Wild | TPE: 191
Hatter: 15 | Doomsday: 15 | Berocka: 17 | Esso: 15 | Summers: 9 | Tallinder: 15
 
Despite none of us having Timothy Brown in this spot, it could easily be a move that works out for the Titans. While most of us see the Titans moving for a defenceman, a winger could be what they need to help their rebuild along (in fact the two of us who didn’t predict a defenceman here predicted Chris Hyland instead, another winger in the same TPE range).  Brown has a highly developed shot that should translate well to the VHL. In general, his skill set matches that of recent HOF inductee and Titans’ legend Julian Borwinn, something the Titans’ GM will be sure to take note of. Brown will likely spend another year of development in the minors, where he should spend some time rounding out the other aspects of his game. With his heavy-hitting playstyle, he would do well to bulk up a little to be able to match the VHL for physicality. In a few years time, he could fill the Titans’ roster nicely with a great scoring option on the wing. As the Titans have a variety of other winger prospects, Brown will need to raise his game to guarantee ice time, but his hard work in his first VHLM season has proven he can do just that. 
- Mr_Hatter

 
 #15. Vancouver Wolves (From TOR) 
Chris Hylands | @Hylands33 | RW |
Mexico City Kings | TPE: 196
Hatter: 13 | Doomsday: 13 | Berocka: 14 | Esso: 16 | Summers: 14 | Tallinder: 17
 
Is it time yet? It honestly feels like an eternity since the last time the Vancouver Wolves didn't ice a competitive roster but, with both Hunter Hearst Helmsley and Julius Freeman entering their 7th season, it seems like the Wolves might finally be ready to turn the page and start an actual rebuild. In Chris Hylands, the team would get an offensively-gifted right-winger, whose best asset is easily his sharp shot, but his game is not simply limited to that. The Canadian forward is equally as good in his own zone as he is good at putting the puck in the back of the net. His skillset is also rounded by above-average playmaking abilities and great skating speed. All that being said, Hylands is still probably a full season of development away from being ready to swing in the major leagues. He can use this time to work on all aspects of the game, so that he jumps in the VHL as a great all-around prospect, ready to help Vancouver forget the eventual departure of their two stars.
- McWolf

 
 #16. D.C. Dragons (From NYA) 
Gregg Stallion | @SweatyBeaver | RW |
Houston Bulls | TPE: 173
Hatter: 16 | Doomsday: 16 | Berocka: 16 | Esso: 19 | Summers: 18 | Tallinder: 16
 
This is the part of the draft where things get the most interesting to me. Many of the picks as we get later in the second round will spend the coming season in the minors, which means that we will have to wait an extra season to see how the payoff. However, this can also be a great opportunity to pick up essential pieces of a future competitive core. The Houston Bulls had a rough go of it this past season, but one of the few bright spots was Gregg Stallion. His ninety-five points came from a very good balance of goals and assists and he proved to be extremely clutch. On a team that only had eighteen wins on the season, Stallion accounted for four of the game-winning goals. Picks this deep in the draft can certainly be gambling, but I think the odds are very good for whatever team ends up selecting this exciting young right-winger. Where Stallion is certainly a lock is the VHLM draft, where he will almost certainly go early if he isn’t drafted by a team that intends to call him up.
- Erik Summers

 
 #17. Riga Reign (From PRG via DAV) 
Viktor Alexei Kamenov | @BigTittySmitty | D |
Mexico City Kings | TPE: 167
Hatter: 17 | Doomsday: 18 | Berocka: 16 | Esso: 21 | Summers: 23 | Tallinder: 14
 
With their only pick in the first two rounds of the draft, we expect the Riga Reign to attempt to shore up their defensive pairings. With only 3 currently rostered defencemen, the Reign will need to make a move to secure their fourth spot. While they may yet achieve this via trades or free agency, they should certainly look to the draft as a way to fill this gap for the future. Considering Hackett isn’t getting any younger, their prior levels of defensive stability aren’t looking so secure. Enter Kamenov. The Russian giant stands at a huge 6’ 8”, weighing in at 210 pounds. He struggled somewhat offensively in the VHLM, with only 37 points, but considering his place on a struggling Mexico City side, his numbers don’t look too bad. Also considering his 163 hits and 152 shots blocked, and you can start to get a clearer picture of just how the big man can be utilized. It’s unclear as to whether or not Kamenov will stay down another season; he could certainly use the time to develop, but Riga also needs another defenceman now. It may be a trial of fire, but he has shown he can handle the heat. And at the very least, his defence first attitude will be invaluable on the second-pairing.  
- Mr_Hatter
 
 
 #18. Helsinki Titans (From MAL via VAN) 
Zamboni Driver | @Tape-to-Tape | G |
San Diego Marlins | TPE: 179
Hatter: 18 | Doomsday: 17 | Berocka:   | Esso: 17 | Summers: 16 | Tallinder: 18
 
Finally, nearly halfway through the draft, we have our first goalie off the board! Not only is the new goaltender for the Mexico City Kings (listed as a San Diego Marlin since he played there in Season 71) the first one off the board, but it turns out that Zamboni Driver is the only goaltender to be drafted in the first two rounds of the draft in the eyes of VSN. With their current goaltender situation, the Helsinki Titans are a perfect fit for him. Starting goaltender Michael Johnson has three seasons to go before retirement, with inactive backup Owen May set to retire after next season, assuming he’s even still there. Zamboni Driver will have another season in the VHLM, where he will likely be the major favourite to bring home the Benoit Devereux Trophy as the VHLM’s top goaltender. The Titans can afford to allow him to develop this season, and Driver would be able to make the roster as Johnson’s backup next season, likely pushing for more and more starts by Season 74. A future franchise goaltender at 18th overall would be great value for Helsinki here.
- Doomsday
 
 
 #19. HC Davos Dynamo (From CGY via TOR) 
Joe Exotic | @Joe Exotic | LW |
Philadelphia Reapers | TPE: 164
Hatter: 19 | Doomsday: 19 | Berocka: 20 | Esso: 20 | Summers: 19 | Tallinder: 20
 
Joe Exotic is a curious prospect because he joined the Philadelphia Reapers nine games into the season and was a very undeveloped talent at the time. Therefore, his stats for last season look very lack-lustre, scoring just seventeen points and shooting at less than a ten per cent conversion rate. However, if you watched his development closely, you noticed that he improved rapidly late in the season. This means that a team could get an absolute deal on a top-tier prospect late in the second round. If there is any team that is going to be flooded with top-tier prospects this season it is going to be HC Davos and if they secure Joe Exotic as well they are likely to get a great value. Exotic could very well end up on a squad that looks poised to make a lot of noise in the next two to three seasons.
- Erik Summers

 
 #20. Malmo Nighthawks 
Michael Mac | @LastOneUp | RW |
VHLM Team | TPE: 171
Hatter: 20 | Doomsday: 20 | Berocka: 18 | Esso: 18 | Summers: 24 | Tallinder: 21
 
Michael Mac is a prospect who could end up as a huge piece of Malmo’s future if he maintains his weekly output of TPE that he’s had so far. For a later second-round pick, Mac is of outstanding value, because of his potential as a consistent offensive threat at the VHL level. The Canadian winger has fine scoring instincts and sees the ice really well. He has progressed rapidly since joining, earning every possible capped TPE up until last week. That is not much of a concern though, with him rebounding perfectly this week. He has earned 20+ TPE in four of his 7 full weeks to date, which is also very nice to see. Despite playing for one of the VHLM’s weaker teams this season, Mac still put up nearly a point-per-game, and 25 goals. This is a player who could very well end up far outperforming his draft slot, and if Malmo is the team to take him, their winger depth could see quite the boost.
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #21. Vancouver Wolves (From RIG) 
Joseph Gainer | @joeg | LW |
Mississauga Hounds | TPE: 146
Hatter: 22 | Doomsday: 30 | Berocka: 19 | Esso: 22 | Summers: 20 | Tallinder: 22
 
The Wolves have done a lot this draft to secure their future core, and so with this pick are looking to have some good prospect depth to round out their roster of tomorrow. Joseph Gainer of the Mississauga Hounds fills this gap perfectly. The word that comes to mind with this player is balance. He is steady across the board and is the perfect kind of player that any GM would love to work with and develop into a VHL-calibre star. He certainly could use the extra season in the VHLM to work on his game, but that will be afforded by Vancouver’s current offensive core. Gainer has a bit of steel about him, and the drive to succeed that holds a value above statistical output. Given the fact that the Hounds were struggling as a whole, the Wolves would be wise to look past the numbers and recognize Gainer for what he is; a fighter. 
- Mr_Hatter

 
 #22. Vancouver Wolves 
Bobby Wyman | @Lefty_S | D |
Saskatoon Wild | TPE: 141
Hatter: 23 | Doomsday: 21 | Berocka: 22 | Esso: 23 | Summers: 25 | Tallinder: N/A
 
With the 22nd pick in the draft, Vancouver takes German defenseman, Bobby Wyman. Wyman has been around since the draft’s first week of eligibility, so his larger sample size leads to more confidence that he will stick around long term. On the ice, he is a menacing defensive defenseman who hits like a truck. Every great part of his game is defined by his absurd strength. He is able to knock forwards off the puck in his own zone and is hard on the puck himself. When in the attacking zone, Wyman’s shot is an absolute cannon that the opposing team always has to be aware of. The Saskatoon defender put up 53 points, which is very nice to see from a defenseman who isn’t primarily focused on points. On top of that, his 278 hits tied him for first in the entire VHLM. Even though Bobby Wyman’s TPE earning has been a little sporadic, he has still managed to update every week, ranging from 6-10 per week in most cases. He will provide depth on the Wolves’ blueline, with his physical presence and standout defensive abilities.
- Patrik Tallinder

 
 #23. Moscow Menace 
Liam Flaten | @flatl99 | D |
Philadelphia Reapers | TPE: 158
Hatter: 21 | Doomsday: 24 | Berocka: 30 | Esso: 21 | Summers: 21 | Tallinder: 19
 
Approaching the end of the second round, we have Liam Flaten, a defenseman that our ranking team found themselves fairly divided on. Something of a late-bloomer last season, Flaten had a solid performance in the postseason. Despite playing for the Philadelphia Reapers, who were knocked out in the first round, Liam managed five points and came in at a plus three over the course of their seven games in which they were outscored by eight goals. One would think that Moscow’s window may be closing after the string of success they have had recently, but if that happens, Flaten should be developing out of the minors just in time to join a once again ascending Menace squad. One of the things I am most interested to see in the coming season from Liam is what type of player he intends to be. He currently is not very specialized in any particular direction, so it will be interesting to see what influence whichever teams that draft him has on his focus in training and development.
- Erik Summers

 
 #24. Seattle Bears 
Remy Moreau | @Da Trifecta | RW |
Las Vegas Aces | TPE: 143
Hatter: 25 | Doomsday: 23 | Berocka: 21 | Esso: 24 | Summers: 22 | Tallinder: N/A
 
As we wrap up our mock draft, the second round ends with the Seattle Bears grabbing Remy Moreau, a right-wing that will be spending a third season with the Las Vegas Aces in Season 72. Moreau is an interesting case and for sure a project player. He scored seven points in 18 games with the Aces in Season 70, but after being drafted by Vegas and spending Season 71 with them, he only scored four points all season. With a major drop in his work ethic, it would explain the drastic reduction in playing time, but he appears to be back at it, making Moreau a boom or bust type of pick. His agent has produced some stellar players, but a reputation of them retiring early does exist with them. For Seattle’s ageing core, Moreau could fit in nicely if he continues to update. He would be coming into his own right around the time some of them would be exiting the VHL. General Manager Ambrose Stark knows that sometimes you need to gamble big to win big, and rolling the dice on this Las Vegas prospect could help towards keeping the winning streak going for Seattle.
- Doomsday
 
Best of luck to all teams and draftees this year!
 
Love,
 
VSN

Welcome to the S72 VHL Recruitment Mock Draft!
 
In this mock draft I will be, to the best of my abilities, predicting the selections of the S72 VHL Entry Draft. Without further ado, lets get into the mock draft:
 
Round #1
 
#1. HC Davos Dynamo
 
C - SS Hornet- @McWolf - 377 TPE -
 
Davos is coming into the draft hot, with both first and second overall picks. Davos, a team who has struggled for countless seasons, seems to have an opportunity to turn things around in this draft. After a very succesful showing by Davos' second overall selection in last seasons draft, Roque Davis, Davos needs to keep it going by selecting two more players to help lead their team into the future. With the first of these picks, I see SS Hornet being taken. Hornet, a 6'2" 210 lb. monster, would be an excellent choice for Davos' future #1 centre. After a strong showing in both his S70 and S71 season's in the VHLM, one can say Hornet is practically VHL ready. He is on pace to hit the VHL with around 400 TPE, so his scoring defence, and skating will be a huge factor in helping set him apart from his fellow draftees.
 
#2. HC Davos Dynamo
 
LW - Robin Winter - @Sonnet - 325 TPE -
 
Robin Winter, a 6' 1" 200 lb. winger who finished off an exceptional season with the Minnesota Storm, is who I see being Davos' second selection. Two big, fast, and talented forwards are just what Davos needs to build it's team for the future. Winter is a do-it-all kind of player, with excellent abilities in skating, puck handling, passing, scoring, defence, and some great strength. I expect Winter to compliment Hornet very well playing on his wing. Both of these players, along with Roq.Sue Davis selected last season, will be a force to be reckoned with.
 
#3. Calgary Wranglers
 
D - Latrell Mitchell - @dasboot - 305 TPE -
 
With Brady Stropko Jr retiring after this season and Charlie Paddywagon the season after, Calgary is going to need someone to help keep their d core alive along with Edwin The Encarnacion.  After a great showing for the Minnesota Storm last season, Latrell Mitchell would be the best bet to give Calgary a young face to partner up with Encarnacion. Calgary has a strong core for their future, including names like Encarnacion, Lafontaine, Kris Rice, Sigard Gunnar, and Mikko Lahtinen. Bringing in Mitchell, a player with strong defence, scoring, passing, puck handling, and skating stats, is a very smart move for Calgary with two of their top defenceman eyeing retirement.
 
#4. Vancouver Wolves
 
RW - Jungkok - @tfong - 249 TPE -
 
With Vancouver's star players in Hunter Hearst Helmsley and Julius Freeman heading into retirement after the next two season, the Wolves need to begin planning for the future. A large peice of that, is winger Joe Proto who was selected 8th overall by Vancouver just last season. I believe Jungkok will be Vancouver's selection at #4 overall to assist Joe Proto in giving their forward core a fresh and future focused revamp. Jungkok put up some great numbers last season playing for the San Diego Marlins, where he put up 102 poits, 278 hits, and 53 shot blocks.
 
#5. Seattle Bears
 
D - Randy Marsh - @oilmandan - 278 TPE -
 
After a cup-winning performance by Seattle this past season, Seattle looks to bolster their squad for future, so that they can success longterm. This makes Randy Marsh a great prospect for Seattle, as it will allow Seattle to cycle out Berocka Sundqvist and Hulk Hogan, their top two defencemen. Although they have 3 more seasons a piece left in their careers, it's never a bad idea to plan for the future. Randy is a hard-hitting and fast moving defenceman, who has the ability to laser a puck.
 
#6. Calgary Wranglers
 
D - General Zod - @Matt_O - 276 TPE -
 
Calgary is back on the clock with their second pick in the first round, this time at 6th. The Kryptonian can be an excellent fit along with Latrell Mitchell, as stated above, and a great addition to Calgary's defensive core. Dru-Zod, other than his exceptional defensive ability, was able to use his his skating, puck handling, strength, and passing to put up 74 points for Las Vegas last season.
 
#7. Vancouver Wolves
 
C - Andrew Su - @Da_Berr - 247 TPE -
 
If Vancouver wants to build their forward core for the future, they are going to need more than wingers like Joe Proto and Jungkok. They are going to need a centre like Andrew Su. Su put up a nearly 100 point pefromance for the cup-winning Ottawa Lynx this past season. His scoring, defense, puck handling, and skating abilities make him a great asset for any team. He would make a great addition to Vancouver's offense.
 
#8. Malmo Nighthawks
 
D - Alex Letang - @Spartan - 215 TPE -
 
Maml makes their first appearance on the board here with pick 7. Malmo's defense, in it's current state, is lackluster. With only one standout defenseman in Condor Adrienne, the Nighthawks are in need of another impact player for their blueline. Alex Letang, fits that role to a tee. Letang is a 6'0" 180 lb. defenseman with great skating, puck handling, scoring, and defense. Although he put up only 56 points in a season which saw 5 defenseman surpass the 100 point mark, Letang has great potential to be a start for the Malmo Nighthawks, which is exactly what they need.
 
#9. HC Davos Dynamo
 
RW - Gino DiGiannantonio - @pennypenny  - 305 TPE -
 
Davos comes back with their final pick of the first round, by taking Gino DiGiannantonio. Gino will help round out Davos' future forward core along with the likes of Robin Winter and SS Hornet. Gino has arguably the best shot in this draft class, which is seen in his 58 goals last season with the Yukon Rush. Gino helped push Yukon into the finals, where the ultimately lost against the Ottawa Lynx.
 
#10. Helsinki Titans
 
LW - Valtteri Vaakanainen - @Jubo07 - 341 TPE -
 
With the loss of Julian Borwinn, Alexander Pepper, and Kronos Bailey to retirement, it's time for a few new faces to lead Helsinki to their future. Valtteri Vaakanainen is set to help the Titans begin their next era along with the likes of Jim Bob and Hiroshi Okada. Valtteri is right up there with Gino in terms of having a lethal shot, posses great puck handling skills, solid defensive abilities, and top tier speed. He is a top 3 talent in this draft class and will be the face of Helsinki's franchise.
 
#11. Moscow Menace
 
C - Lucas Brandt - @twists - 212 TPE -
 
With stars Jet Jaguar and Mat Tocco looking at retirement in just two seasons, Moscow needs to bring in some prospects who can replace them in due time. Lucas Brandt, can be a major part in that. The 6'0" 180 lb. centre for the Halifax 21st last season put up a respectable 87 points in his 72 games. He put his body on the line for  106 shots blocked and threw up 76 hits. He has great defensive ability, great shooting, puck handling, and skating.
 
#12. Seattle Bears
 
D - Spencer Elsby - @Spence King - 208 TPE -
 
Spencer Elsby would be a great future linemate with Randy Marsh, who I also predicted to go to Seattle. Spencer, along with his great defensive ability, has respectable passing, skating, and puck handling abilities. For a player as tall as him, at 6'3", he is a mere 160 lbs. This makes him a practical twig on skates, but if he works hard enoug at improving his skill he can overcome his size.
 
Round #2
 
#13. Vancouver Wolves
 
D - DeFenz Mann - @Mike - 200 TPE -
 
Hey would you look at that, Vancouver is back on the clock (you'll be seeing alot of that in this second round). I see DeFenz Mann coming at 13th overall for Vancouver, purely because of his excellent two way ability. His defensive, skating, scoring, and puck handling skills are up to par with many others in this draft class. Mann is a big boy, coming it in at 6'3" and 200 lbs., and I can see him being plenty useful on Vancouver's blueline.
 
#14. Helsinki Titans
 
RW - Timothy Brown - @a_Ferk - 191 TPE -
 
Don't judge Timothy Brown just based off his size. At only 5'11" and 165lbs., Timothy through up 144 hits for Saskatoon last seson. Along with his good scoring, defense, skating, and puck handling, this little guy isn't afraid to throw his body up against his opponents.
 
#15. Vancouver Wolves
 
RW - Gregg Stallion - @SweatyBeaver - 173 TPE -
 
Well this kid is an absolute... Stallion. Although he missed 4 games last season, he put up an outstanding performance for the struggling Houston Bulls last season. His 95 points, 107 hits, and 43 shot blocks are incredible for a player coming it at just 6'0" 180lb.
 
 
#16. D.C. Dragons
 
RW - Chris Hylands - @Hylands33 - 197 TPE -
 
Although he only managed to put up 34 points last season, Hylands is one of the top ranked players for the next VHLM season. He prides himself in his scoring and defensive ability, with his passing and skating not that far off aswell. He continues the trend of little guys who arent afraid to put up hits, as he had 103 of them with his 6'0" 175lb. frame.
 
#17. Helsinki Titans
 
RW - Michael Mac - @LastOneUp - 171 TPE -
 
Here comes Michael Mac, a player with great abilities in both passing and scoring. His defense, puck handling, and skating are also some of his biggest strengths. His 61 point performance for Mississauga last season was far more than what was expected from this newcomer, and has shown he has the ability to go above and beyond for his team taking 56 shot blocks and giving 94 hits last season.
 
#18. Riga Reign
 
D - Viktor Alexei Kamenov - @BigTittySmitty - 168 TPE -
 
Kamenov will be a great pick here for Riga in my opinion. He's a big guy coming it at 6'8" 210lbs., and his more than willing to sacrifice his body for his team, as seen in his 152 shots blocked. His big frame allows him to be feared by the opposing team, and should be because hes not afraid to hit. This is seen in his 163 hits last season for the Mexico City Kings.
 
#19. HC Davos Dynamo
 
G - Zamboni Driver - @Tape-to-Tape  - 179 TPE -
 
Zamboni Driver will be the first goalie selected in the S72 VHL Entry draft, and I expect it to be Davos with pick #19. He had a good showing last season for San Diego in both the regular season and the playoffs. Davos could use a goalie to either backup Joakim Bruden or take the starter mantle for himself, and I believe that would be Zamboni Driver.
 
#20. Malmo Nighthawks
 
LW - Joe Exotic - @Joe Exotic - 164 TPE -
 
Joe Exotic struggled last season with Philadelphia, only managing to put up 17 points in his shortened 64 game season. He has made strides for improvement, and it remains to be seen how he will produce with one more season in the VHLM. Assuming his production picks up, this could be an excellent pick by Malmo, here late in the second round.
 
#21. Vancouver Wolves
 
D - Liam Flaten - @flatl99 - 158 TPE -
 
Liam Flaten put up a respectable 31 points as a defenseman last season for Philadelphia, and still has a shot to prove himself in the VHLM in this upcoming season. By playing his cards right and giving it his all next season, he could make himself a spot on the Vancouver Wolves roster the season after that, as I believe it will be Vancouver who takes the 6'2" 210lb. defenseman at #21.
 
#22. Vancouver Wolves
 
C - Jay Jones - @TTtheT - 142 TPE -
 
Jay Jones is a sniper who played for the Saskatoon Wild last season putting up 42 points and 110 hits. He has a big frame coming it at 6'3" and 210lbs. With the right development he could definately crack the Vancouver roster after one more VHLM development season. His prized asset would be his great shot, which will be a deadly force next season in the minors.
 
#23. Moscow Menace
 
LW - Joseph Gainer - @joeg - 146 TPE -
 
A player with with good scoring, defense, passing, and puck handling is who Joseph Gainer is in a nutshell. Although he is 6'0" and 210 lbs., Gainer isn't really the type to put up alot of hits or blocked shots. He makes up for this though in his offensive ability, putting up 33 points in 56 games for Mississauga last season.
 
#24. Seattle Bears
 
D - Riley Knight Gee - @KnightRiley  - 133 TPE -
 
To close out the second round the S72 VHL Entry Draft, I expect the Seattle Bears to select Riley Knight Gee. Knight Gee put up an outstanding 63 points, 127 hits, 193 shots blocked in 68 games played. Going off stats alone, he is already better than some of the players selected above him in the second round. He has equally worked on his passing, scoring, defense, and skating, which make him a threat on ice both offensively and defensively.
 
 
And that concludes the S72 Recruitment Team VHL Mock Draft. If you disagree with my choices, feel free to comment below what you would change and why. With that being said, good luck to both the players and teams involved in the S72 VHL Entry Draft, which will be happening TOMORROW @ 3PM EDT
 

Enjoyed this. Was well written and broken down in all different categories. Art work added sealed the deal for me. 9/10 Good job.

Nice read! I don't know enough about VHL/M to know the stats, but your guy has 12.72% shooting pct; in the NHL, at least, that's nothing to be ashamed of!