ahockeyguy

Patrik Laine (pictured) after Miami's game five loss to the Minnesota Storm. Minnesota won the S73 Founder's Cup with a 4-1 series win over Miami.
 
MIAMI - A lot of Marauders players and fans alike are upset after the team's 4-3 loss to Minnesota in game 5 of the Founder's Cup Finals. However, none are more upset or optimistic than Patrik Laine.
 
"You know, it's definitely tough. To go that far....and lose......leaves a sick feeling in your stomach. It was fun to win through the first two rounds, but now....the only thing in your mind is..... the fact that you couldn't get the job done."
 
Miami went all the way to the Founder's Cup Finals by sweeping Philadelphia 4-0 in round 1 and defeating San Diego in 6 in the Conference Finals. Despite these triumphs, Miami would fall to Minnesota in the finals in 5 games. Laine says it isn't all bad for Miami though.
 
"Well, it is the basic steps of building a franchise like winning a playoff series and making it to the cup finals. Rice knows what he is doing with this team and I wish him the best of luck moving forward. I also want to thank all my teammates. You guys were all fun to play with during the season and I'll miss you next year. Kiitos."
 
(220 words)
 

Thanks Wolf! The formatting from word to forum is messy but I could definitely clean it up. Good catch. 
 
and much to the excitement of my VHL team, GROOVY DOOD LIVES ON!

Review: OK this is the only VHL post I've ever seen (in my very limited experience) that has made me truly sad. You were and are a great AGM, and there will never be another like the legendary Dood! Our rivalry really is built on respect, and Wolf looks forward to seeing you in competition in the big leagues. I would have appreciated a picture on this thing, though. And also spaces between paragraphs. Oh, one final ambiguity: I couldn't tell if this means you're retiring your player or not. I assume not? Great job! Score: 8.5/10

Since my VHLM career will be coming to an end this week, I decided I will use my VHL.com article to send an open thank you to the guys in charge of Miami while I was there, both GM @Ricer13 and AGM @bigAL - this goes out to you. 
 
The VHLM is the place everyone starts - whether it is your first, second, or eighteenth player. It is especially important for VHLM management to be helpful, teaching new members everything they need to know. Starting out, I wasn't exactly sure what to do. I had no team, joining after the season and before the draft. I knew you could earn by doing some things like making graphics, but I didn't even know how to claim welfare my first week. 
 
Despite knowing I was going to be a late draft pick, I was very excited to see myself in the draft. Along with my friend @osens, we both watched the entire draft stream, and surprisingly enough, we both were drafted to the newest VHLM franchise - the Miami Marauders. I'm not even sure how Miami knew we wanted to play together, maybe it was just dumb luck. But me and osens (and eventually dart who signed as a free agent) were more than happy to be playing together.
 
Maybe I'm getting a little off track here. This is supposed to be just a long thank you to both BigAl and Krice. I loved my time in Miami. As a new member, krice was the perfect GM for me, teaching me the ways to earn TPE, the ins and outs of VHL, and giving every person on the team an opportunity to succeed both in Miami and beyond. Due to both Al and Ricer, I am now an active member of the community, and I don't see myself going anywhere anytime soon. Maybe it would've been different going somewhere else, with not as much support. 
 
Nonetheless, in my opinion, even after just 2 seasons as a GM in the VHLM, krice is ready to make the jump to VHL GM. As for Al, I am sad to see him step down as Miami AGM, but life always comes first. I wish him the best with Groovy Dood. More than happy to have had these guys as my first management team, and well, friends. ❤️

They say to always go out on top, to die a hero before you live long enough to see yourself become the villain, to retire at your peak and spare the sad, slow decline. Well, following this successful Founder’s Cup Final series against Minnesota, I’ll get my ring and be on top. What better time than now to go out?
 
Yes, that’s true. The league’s grooviest AGM, *the* bigAL, an OM (original Marauder), is stepping down. I’ll give you some space to cry and grieve.
*
Okay, back to it. Remember, there’s no(t much) crying in hockey.
 
It’s been a great run in Miami. I was a completely new member when I joined in the tail end of S71. Groovy Dood was signed on waivers to become Halifax’s 22nd, but after a one and done playoffs, The Dood entered the VHLM Dispersal Draft.
 
The S71 offseason (or would it be the S72 offseason?) was a very exciting one, and not just for me. S71 was the last season where the VHLM was *lame*. S72 introduced the league to the most frightening logo in (virtual) professional hockey: Miami’s Marauder.
 
The Marauders were introduced to the league with a newly hired general manager too. Kris Rice, aka Kr-ice, aka K-Rice, became the first GM in Miami franchise history. Riceroni had a long, successful track record as a VHLM AGM in Yukon, and deserved this newly-created GM position. But, no GM locks themselves in their office and does everything alone – he needed an Assistant General Manager.
 
Enter bigAL.
 
The Dood showed up in the S71 offseason PUMPED. He was gonna get drafted, then he’d *finally* have a team to write a media spot for, then he’ll *really* start racking up the TPE, then actually be good at virtual hockey. That’s the goal. But, I soon realized there was another way to get involved in the league. No organization as big, as complex, or as labour-intensive as ours works without the work of volunteers. The blues, the commishes, the GMs, the updaters, the VSN, (and yeah, even the lowly AGMs) are all passionate, dedicated volunteers, and without them, the VHL wouldn’t be what it is today. The thing they’ve built, and the whole world that surrounds it, is awesome. I knew I wanted to help out in some way to make this great thing even greater.
 
But I didn’t plan on being AGM. In the hiring thread I was just a nosy new nobody asking too many questions about this volunteer opportunity. Turns out my future VHL GM Enorama was the one to encourage me to apply. Looking back with S73 eyes, I can’t believe the VHLM beauties I beat out to get this job: Spyro, Z, Viper, Glade, are all already-successful AGMs in the league; rip Alex Bridges, but he would’ve done great; Tallinder the VSN celebrity. Those are some elite AGM peers, and I respect them all, but holy hell I was pumped. I got in on the ground floor of an expansion franchise, a blank slate, an *expansion draft*, just so many cool things happening at once. I’ve absolutely loved my time as an AGM, and it’s such an underrated position in the league.
 
We got to scouting and prepping for the draft right away. I was brand new to the league, and the *assistant* GM, so I asked Minute Rice what I should be looking for in a potential Miami pick. He prioritized forum and locker room activity, positivity, and general “good human-ness” above all. This led to some widely criticized picks in the expansion draft, reaching to get low-TPE first-gens like Andre LeBastard, but the joke was on them – the draft went perfectly according to plan. Miami was meant to be a fun place to be from the get-go, and drafting VHLM stars like dlamb, OhSens, Kosmo, Wolf Stansson, and Bacon got us off on the right foot. During that highly successful draft, I had the spreadsheet all drawn up, so many tabs open, the draft board so colour coded you get a headache, and all the organization you could ever want. I was killing it as the Jonah Hill to his Brad Pitt.
 
The AGM is a great job and I’ve loved doing it. I missed posting only a few press conferences, and liked to use that space to ask questions that elicit long answers and good quotes while engaging you as a VHLM player, fan, and a person. I’ve liked being a part of the leadership team in Miami, stoking the flames when they’re good ones and putting out fires that are bad ones. I’ve *loved* being in the #vhlm-gm-corner – the shit that goes on in there is wild and they should definitely make a 30 for 30 about that channel someday. The league head office says they don’t pay AGMs, but that’s not all true: posting the press conference each week is your job, and so the 2 TPE you claim from that each week is your job *pay*!
 
I’m also so so thankful to be a part of the Miami room. I was drafted by the icky Minnesota Storm, one pick before Miami would’ve snagged me. I was held ransom in that frozen hellscape, and under normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have made it into the Miami locker room. I’m so active in the VHL because of the cool cats I met in that Miami club (okay gotta shout out the 9-to-5 crew too ✌️ )
 
Hockey’s always fun, but let’s be real – it’s more fun when you’re winning. Since Miami’s been a thing, all we’ve done is win. Even when we’re not winning, we’re winning. Our inaugural season was a moral victory, blowing past everyone’s expectations. They weren’t supposed to make the playoffs *apparently*, but made it and took Round 1 to Game 7 against the stacked Minnesota Storm. This season, the moral victories turned into *actual* victories. The midget players we drafted last season grew up into juggernauts, and Miami had an absurd amount of 250-capped players before the Trade Deadline. We were winning games left, right, and centre, and had some epic winning streaks. All we do is win. At time of printing, we’re down 3-1 in the Finals to Minnesota again. Game 7 anyone?
 
Anyways, more to the point, I’m leaving it all behind at the end of these playoffs. Life’s hectic: I bought a house on the other side of the province and moved into it this weekend. I don’t work at the computer anymore. Frig, I won't even have internet for a few weeks and I'm at the local rec centre stealing free wifi to post this. I find myself struggling to keep up with the Discords. Miami deserves an AGM who can be the glue that keeps that tight-knit team together, and the honey that attracts the sweet new first-gens. I had a good run, and they always say it’s best to go out on top.
 
Win or lose this series, Miami’s been a huge success, and I’m so thankful I got to be a part of it.
✌️ & ❤️ 
 Go Dragons

Wolf Stansson approaches the podium for the press conference. He is somewhat happy, but has a scowl on his face. His team, the Miami Marauders, has just swept their first-round opponents in the VHLM playoffs, and this is the first press conference he’s taken part in for quite a while—at least that’s the way it feels. “I’m just busy, you know?” he would say later.
               Stansson, as a player this season, is a bit of an enigma. In the regular season he’s done well on points, blocked shots, and hits. However, aside from shot blocking, he has zero points in the playoffs thus far. This is the first question he is asked. “I’m not sure why this is a question,” Stansson tersely replies. “I mean, we just swept Philly. We won,” he adds, emphasizing “won” as though he were adding new information to the equation. “I’m not sure why I’m being criticized.”
 
               He has a point. He blocked shots and logged serious ice time for a team that has won every playoff game thus far. It’s difficult to ask for much more. He’s maintained a +2 while averaging nearly 26 minutes of ice time per game. He’s landed in the box four times, but given his ice time and physicality, this is hardly a surprise. In fact, while Stansson often comes off as sensitive to criticism, here he may have a point (no pun intended). He is a two-way player. This is fair to think about his offensive production. But this is a different year than last.
               Last year, Stansson was asked to carry the load on the power-play and to team up with Kosmo Kramerev to inject a needed-boost into an expansion franchise filled with growing pains. This year he’s being asked to settle in as a leader on the ice, setting the tone through big hits and the occasional power-play goal. In other words: this team is much better, and Wolf has a different role to play. A question rings out about a hit he took from a Philly forward smaller than he was. “I’m not out there keeping score on hits. Again: we won.”
               There is a near-smugness to his tone, a smile creeping on his lips that borders on arrogant. He chuckles lightly, and claps. “That’s what it’s about, isn’t it? Isn’t this America?!” He spreads his arms wide, feigning exasperation. This is the part where we note two things can be true about Wolf Stansson: he is right about the criticism from the media at this point—it’s ridiculous—and he’s still being a little too sensitive. What he needs when he moves to the VHL in Moscow next season is for an older veteran to take the young kid under his wing and show him the ropes when it comes to PR. Not simply to be liked—he doesn’t have to care about playing the game that way. But he should do it so that he can tell his story in the way he wants to frame it. The less he reacts, the less the media will keep bringing up barbs. He would do well to learn this lesson now. There’s no better time than the present

Hoping @ahockeyguy can step up into the #4 defenseman role and support either me or Pavlov on the back end! Looking forward to playing with him and our rising rooks this next season, and to working with our new prospects from the upcoming draft ❤️ 

Nice interview! I have to say, I am still confused about the Krice vs. Ricer vs. The Rice Man vs. Old Geezer, etc.  Actually I think we've eliminated Krice, so that is something at least. You know the article is good when my criticism is essentially I am still not clear on a nickname. In all seriousness, good interview, good non-pat answers. I think I would have liked to see some more specific questions demanding analysis of the team and its performance, whether it be this year vs. last year, analysis of potential playoff opponents, etc. Still good! Go Marauders! Score: 9/10

Hello everyone and welcome to this edition of GM Connected. It is where I your host Thomas Drance connect with General Managers around the VHLM to get a little behind the scenes information about the progress of their clubs and what their plans for the future hold. I don't want to keep you waiting  any longer, this week our first guest on GM Connected is a young up and comer in the VHL Minor's. He was given the responsibility of managing an expansion team in the VHLM and is currently in his second season with that very team. I am happy to welcome the General Manager of the Miami Marauders, K. Rice. 
 
Rice: Wow that was quite an intro Drancer, thank you so much for having me on your show.
 
Drance: Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to sit down with us today. Before we get into the team I have a question that I have been dying to know the answer of and that is what name do you prefer to be called? I have heard you been called Krice, K. Rice and even Ricer. Lets clear the air once and for all for the fans out there.

Rice: I had a feeling this question was coming and I am glad to get it out of the way right off the bat. The answer is I don't actually care. Some people like to call me Krice, some call me Ricer and some call me Old Man. What people want to call me is the least of my worries but I am not going to leave everyone hanging who actually do want to know. My name is Kris Rice so when people pronounce Krice its actually K. Rice. 
 
Drance: Well I am hoping that finally gives our fans out there a little bit of closure. Now on to the fun stuff, How has your tenure been as the GM of the expansion team the Miami Marauders?

Rice: Its been unbelievable, I have been extremely fortunate to have selected such a great group of players over the two seasons in Miami. They have all helped create a fun and accepting culture in Miami that I hope to be able to carry through many more seasons. 

Drance: That is something I have heard about Miami, that it is a place that players wants to be because of the amazing culture that surrounds that team. Who are some of the players that have helped create this environment in Miami?
 
Rice: This dates back to last season but players like Captain @Andre LeBastard and our goaltender @Bacon were such an instrumental part of our team last season. They created a fun and engaging atmosphere for all of our new players. Leading into this season we had many of the same guys back in Miami but were able to add some serious depth and of these players @PatrikLaine, @IamMOOSE and many others have added to what is already a great locker room and made it that much more fun and exciting. 
 
Drance: That is really something special you have got brewing over there in Miami. So special in fact that you managed to make the playoffs last season and push the number 1 team to 7 games and then in only your second season as a franchise are now the top team in the VHLM. How rewarding is it that you have been so successful right off the bat and who else do you contribute your success to so far?

Rice: What a wild ride it has been. It isn't even the winning that has been the most rewarding part it has been watching the development of all the young players who are striving for greatness in the VHL. I have seen them all go through their ups and downs over these past two seasons but watching them grow into real pros has been the most rewarding. As for who else has contributed to our success, well I think I just made that pretty clear. Its been the players who have worked night in and night out to be as successful as they can be. Its the players who have made the sacrifices so that each player on the team gets enough ice time. They are the heart and soul of this team and  if not for them we would not be where we are at right now.

Drance: So you have mentioned that its the players who really have contributed to the success of this team, how confident in them are you going into these playoffs? There are a handful of teams who have been jostling for top 5 spots all season long, how do you think your team stacks up against the rest?

Rice: My confidence is sky high at the moment. I have faith in these players that they will get the job done. They have worked their tails off for this and I fully expect them to bring a title to Miami by the end of these playoffs. You do however bring up an excellent point, there are a lot of teams are very strong this season and its going to be a test for us in each and every series but my answer remains the same this team has what it takes and I can not wait to see how they perform this post season.

Drance: Well K. Rice it has been a pleasure having you come on our show. That is all the time we have for today but we would love to have you back on the show sometime in the near future. Do you have any closing comments or anything you would like to tell the fans before we let you go?
 
Rice: Thanks so much Drancer for the taking the time. I just want to say regardless of whether we bring home a title this season I am extremely proud of this team and our staff. They put in the work and now its time to see it pay off. As for the fans, its time to buckle up because you are about to see some teams walk the plank after they have faced off against your Miami Marauders!!! GO MIAMI GOOO!!

Word Count: 1040

VHLM Top 48 Defensemen (S73 EDITION)
 
Now, after I made a top 50 on forwards, many of you requested I do separate articles for defensemen and goalies as well and of course I would say yes to it but also I was planning on doing articles for them anyways so it is perfect. Now, you may be asking yourself the following question:
 
"But Laine, how did you pump this article out so fast?”
 
To answer that I have to give a big shout out to @Plate for sorting all of the data for this article in an excel sheet in record time. The excel sheet with the data will be linked HERE! There is a good chance that if he wasn’t kind enough to help me out with the data, I would still be surfing through all of the data. Now, onto the disclaimers:
 
1. The data I have used to write this article is from Games 1-282 of the S73 VHLM Season. If you are reading this at a later date and the numbers seems a bit off, that is why.
 
2. The data is calculated averages, so if some people on the list look a little too high or a little too low, that is probably the reason why.
 
3. The way I ranked all of the defensemen for this list was by using the 5 stats listed below:
 
1. Goals per 60
2. Assists per 60
3. Plus/Minus per 60
4. Hits per 60
5. Shots Blocked per 60
 
Using those averages, I then ranked all 48 players on this list in each of those categories, added up their rankings. The total of their rankings was used for the rankings of the final list.
 
These 5 statistics here will give you a good look at how good the player is at jumping up in the rush, in their own end and how physically they play. 
 
The rankings aren’t a reflection of who has the most points, they are more of rankings of how well each played it used in reference to their ice time.
 
Without further ado let’s jump right into the article.
 
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
48. Matt Thunder (LVA)
@Matt thunder

0.00 Goals per 60 (48th)
0.51 Assists per 60 (46th)
+0.13 Plus/Minus per 60 (31st)
3.82 Hits per 60 (29th)
1.91 Shots Blocked per 60 (44th)
 
Thunder has been a good depth piece on that Aces defence. He plays a very physical game and loves to stand opposing forwards up the blue line. He also plays good in his own end and gets the timely blocks. As you can see, his offensive numbers aren’t very high so judging from the data, Thunder is a pure lockdown guy. It will be interesting to see how he develops in Vegas.
 
47. Taizo Hasebe (MIS)
@thepandaken

0.13 Goals per 60 (42nd)
0.32 Assists per 60 (48th)
-1.54 Plus/Minus per 60 (40th)
1.79 Hits per 60 (43rd)
4.81 Shots Blocked per 60 (8th)
 
Hasebe is extremely underrated for his production. Sure he doesn’t put up such good offensive numbers and isn’t very physical, but look at the shot blocking numbers. Hasebe is one of the best shot blockers in the league and it isn’t all related to luck. He frequently sizes up to the shot and if the shooter fakes, he changes his position according to where they move. I can see Hasebe developing into a lockdown defender in a few years.
 
46. Jackson Philliefan (OTT)
@Philliefan

0.23 Goals per 60 (27th)
1.05 Assists per 60 (30th)
+0.64 Plus/Minus per 60 (23rd)
2.18 Hits per 60 (41st)
0.91 Shots Blocked per 60 (48th)
 
Philliefan has had a good statistical season in Ottawa. He has had a solid offensive campaign, putting up lots of assists and a few goals here and there. He has been solid, but he needs to improve defensively. He is a good lockdown defender, that is there but what I really want to see him do is get trained for the physical part of defense. If Philliefan learns how to stand forwards up and the blue line and how to correctly judge a shot and move to the shooting lane, he can be one of the best defenders in the league next year. Time will tell though.
 
45. Nathaniel N (SDM)
@NathanN

0.13 Goals per 60 (41st)
0.89 Assists per 60 (33rd)
+0.75 Plus/Minus per 60 (22nd)
2.57 Hits per 60 (39th)
2.66 Shots Blocked per 60 (33rd)
 
Nathaniel has been an interesting player this year. He has yet to develop as this season is his first in the VHLM, but so far he has been a solid player you can slot into your bottom two pairs. The talent is there as he has repeatedly shown us his playmaking ability by jumping up into the rush and his defensive style by playing great in his own zone. I see him making major strides towards superstar status next season.
 
44. Tee Pee E II (MEX)
@Goliathus

0.21 Goals per 60 (28th)
1.06 Assists per 60 (29th)
-0.80 Plus/Minus per 60 (36th)
3.61 Hits per 60 (33rd)
2.60 Shots Blocked Per 60 (35th)
 
Tee has had a great season for Mexico. He has shown us his offensive presence, recording goals and assists on the regular. As you can see with his plus/minus and shots blocked, his defense needs a bit of work but I think with what he has shown us so far, that work can be done easily. We have also seen the physical side of his game. Tee doesn’t hit too often, but when he does it is effective and with perfect timing. I can see him being a very good player next year.
 
43. Jacoby Buckfast (PHI)
@AnthonyOuellet

0.07 Goals per 60 (46th)
0.65 Assists per 60 (40th)
-0.72 Plus/Minus per 60 (34th)
4.92 Hits per 60 (21st)
4.34 Shots Blocked per 60 (11th)
 
Buckfast has been one of the best lockdown defenders in Philly. The Reapers have given up a lot of shots this year. Buckfast and the defence have been playing great alongside their goaltender to fight for a playoff spot. Buckfast has been playing a physical game, shown by him placing 11th in Shots Blocked and 21st in Hits. He loves standing people up at the line and is good at 1 on 1 battles. However, he isn’t very good offensively, chipping in with the odd assist here and there. If he can get his offensive game going, he can turn into a pure two-way defender. Even if he doesn’t develop the offensive side, he is still a solid player who can play on a team’s shutdown pair. It will be interesting to see the steps he takes to become a more dynamic player.
 
42. Victor Grachev (MIA)
@KaleebtheMighty

0.17 Goals per 60 (33rd)
1.09 Assists per 60 (28th)
+0.63 Plus/Minus per 60 (24th)
5.27 Hits per 60 (18th)
1.72 Shots Blocked per 60 (46th)
 
Grachev has been a great fit into a hard-nosed Miami defense. Defensively, he isn’t quite the best at getting into the shooting lanes, but excels in other defensive aspects. For example, his signature move is standing up opposing superstars with the puck at the line and it fits well into Miami’s rock solid defense. Grachev also adds a little scoring touch every now and then with his passing and slapshot. It will be interesting to see how he plays when he jumps to the VHL next season.
 
41. Shawty Nananana (HOU)
@Grape

0.13 Goals per 60 (42nd)
1.99 Assists per 60 (9th)
+0.13 Plus/Minus per 60 (29th)
1.79 Hits per 60 (43rd)
3.33 Shots Blocked per 60 (25th)
 
Shawty is a true two-way defender. He has a knack for jumping into the rush which has paid off in spades for the Bulls and their high flying offense. As a result, Shawty has turned into one of the best playmaking defenders in the game. Don’t let his playmaking ability confuse you, he is still great in his own end. He always goes down to block shots and is great at taking the puck away. I can’t wait to see him transition to the next level, but the question is when? I can see him sticking around in the VHLM next season, but he could also be called up. We won’t know until a later date.
 
40. Joakim Lund (SDM)
@Bouncyelf

0.14 Goals per 60 (39th)
0.61 Assists per 60 (42nd)
+1.32 Plus/Minus per 60 (16th)
6.55 Hits per 60 (8th)
2.03 Shots Blocked per 60 (42nd)
 
Lund has been a solid defender on a surging San Diego team that is fighting for a playoff spot. He’s not the best when it comes to offense, but his defensive play has been great. Lund has been effective standing up forwards at the blue line and playing lockdown while the opponents have a power play or zone time. Lund isn’t one of those defenders who jumps up into the rush but he can still be offensive here and there. I have seen the growth in his passing game this year and if it continues this way he can become a dynamic two-way defenseman.
 
39. Heinz Gunnarson (HFX)
@Ketchup

0.24 Goals per 60 (26th)
0.43 Assists per 60 (47th)
-2.31 Plus/Minus per 60 (48th)
4.81 Hits per 60 (23rd)
7.68 Shots Blocked per 60 (1st)
 
Gunnarson has been having a great season despite the struggles of the Halifax 21st. He has been developing his defensive skills this season and it has shown as he ranks 1st on the list in average shots blocked and 23rd in hits. His plus/minus may be last, but Halifax has only won 3 games so far this year so it is justified. I see him being a nice shutdown defender next season as his development continues.
 
38. Nolan McNalley (YKN)
@Nemcnall1

0.17 Goals per 60 (32nd)
1.15 Assists per 60 (26th)
-1.73 Plus/Minus per 60 (42nd)
2.53 Hits per 60 (40th)
5.99 Shots Blocked per 60 (4th)
 
McNalley is another case just like Gunnarson, He has been coming into his own as a defensive defenseman on a below average team. He has been great at getting into the shooting lanes, ranking 4th in average shots blocked. Lately, we have seen his offensive side, more often than not chipping in with assists. It will be interesting to see how he develops with the Rush.
 
37. Kasper Kankkunen (LVA)
@Z16

0.44 Goals per 60 (16th)
1.15 Assists per 60 (27th)
+0.13 Plus/Minus per 60 (28th)
3.48 Hits per 60 (35th)
2.56 Shots Blocked per 60 (38th)
 
Kankkunen is the perfect offensive defenseman. He still stays on task in his own zone, as shown by his hitting and defensive play during his shifts, but he does a great job jumping up on the rush. He can use his speed to quickly get back if things go wrong when he jumps up and we have seen strides in his defensive game. It will be interesting to see where Kankkunen will go and how he will develop.
 
36. Chase Crosby (LVA)
@Wreckening

0.19 Goal per 60 (30th)
0.70 Assists per 60 (38th)
+1.65 Plus/Minus per 60 (12th)
4.56 Hits per 60 (27th)
2.59 Shots Blocked per 60 (36th)
 
Crosby’s year so far has been interesting. He hasn’t excelled offensively yet and he’s been good at playing physically in his own zone. The one part of his game I have seen the most growth is his lockdown game. In the first game for the Aces this season, he couldn’t lockdown any of their wingers. Since then, he has been working and it is now paying off in spades for him. He can lock up some of the top forwards now. It will be interesting to see how Crosby can take his offensive game to the next level and become a true two-way defender.
 
35. Mattymell (YKN)
@DrunnkPANDAA

0.18 Goals per 60 (31st)
0.78 Assists per 60 (36th)
-1.99 Plus/Minus per 60 (44th)
4.58 Hits per 60 (26th)
5.73 Shots Blocked per 60 (5th)
 
Mell has been another solid defender for the Yukon Rush. He is one of the league’s best shot blockers, ranking 5th in average shots blocked. He needs to improve on his lockdown and physical play, but he has the work ethic to get it done. His offensive game has also seen growth, as he has been recording more points lately. It will be fun to see how he adjusts to the VHL once he gets up there.
 
34. Eoin Byrne (YKN)
@LatinViking

0.10 Goals per 60 (45th)
0.67 Assists per 60 (39th)
+1.72 Plus/Minus per 60 (7th)
2.01 Hits per 60 (42nd)
4.69 Shots Blocked per 60 (9th)
 
After coming over in a trade from the Miami Marauders, Eoin Byrne has looked great in a Yukon Rush uniform. He has been a stable on a hard-nosed lockdown pairing. He ranks top 10 in both plus/minus and shots blocked. We have seen flashes of his offensive game and what he can do. His development offensively will be important, as he can make the jump to be a true two-way defender. It will be fun to see what happens with him in Yukon.
 
33. Erik Hjalmarsson (SSK)
@Erik

0.16 Goals per 60 (37th)
1.82 Assists per 60 (13th)
+1.66 Plus/Minus per 60 (10th)
3.00 Hits per 60 (36th)
2.30 Shots Blocked per 60 (41st)
 
Hjalmarsson has been great this season on a Saskatoon team looking to go back to back. He isn’t the best when playing physical and shot blocking, but he is great at locking down opposing forwards. He ranks 10th in plus/minus per 60 and has been a force in the defensive zone. His offensive game has improved too. He frequently jumps up into the rush and makes great plays to the net, feeding his teammates the puck. It will be interesting to see how he can carry these skills to the VHL level.
 
32. The Blob (HOU)
@JorgTheGoat03

0.11 Goals per 60 (44th)
0.65 Assists per 60 (41st)
+0.11 Plus/Minus per 60 (31st)
12.65 Hits per 60 (1st)
3.68 Shots Blocked per 60 (17th)
 
Blob has been the most physical defender when it comes to standing players up at the line, ranking 1st in hits per 60 with 12.65. He also ranked 17th in shots blocked per 60, solidifying his role as one of Houston’s shutdown guys. His offensive game has yet to blossom, but with the way he has developed so far this year rounding his defensive play, I see him becoming a two-way defender really soon.
 
31. Rick Osman (HFX)
@dylanjj37

0.26 Goals per 60 (24th)
1.16 Assists per 60 (25th)
-2.05 Plus/Minus per 60 (46th)
4.63 Hits per 60 (25th)
4.15 Shots Blocked per 60 (14th)
 
Osman has been an interesting case with Halifax. His defensive abilities are there physically, recording lots of hits and shot blocks and frequently standing players up at the line, but he needs to work on his lockdown abilities. If he can get good with lockdown, he is a dynamic player. Looking at his offensive production, it is very good. He frequently jumps up in the rush and often chips in with goals and assists on the regular. I can’t wait to see him take the next steps.
 
30. Ben Mills (MIS)
@Ben Mills

0.17 Goals per 60 (34th)
1.31 Assists per 60 (22nd)
-0.51 Plus/Minus per 60 (33rd)
3.76 Hits per 60 (30th)
4.16 Shots Blocked per 60 (13th)
 
Mills has been a great defender for Mississauga and is a natural when it comes to blocking shots. His lockdown ability and physicality have improved since the start of the season, but they will need to develop more if he wants to succeed at the VHL level. His offensive ability is there too as he frequently uses his playmaking ability to set up his teammates with good chances. It will be fun to watch his development through the rest of the season.
 
29. Tim Horton (MIS)
@tycotyco

0.16 Goals per 60 (36th)
0.82 Assists per 60 (35th)
-2.13 Plus/MInus per 60 (47th)
6.64 Hits per 60 (7th)
5.49 Blocked Shots per 60 (6th)
 
Horton has been the perfect example of a pure physical defender, ranking top 10 in both hits per 60 and shots blocked per 60. His offensive production has been hit and miss, but when it is there, he is very good. His glaring flaw so far has been his lockdown game. If he can fix this, he can turn into a complete player in the defensive zone along with being an offensive threat. It will be interesting to see how this pans out.
 
28. Kate Upton (MEX)
@OscarTheSwagDude

0.20 Goals per 60 (29th)
1.17 Assists per 60 (23rd)
-1.69 Plus/Minus per 60 (41st)
5.40 Hits per 60 (17th)
3.58 Shots Blocked per 60 (20th)
 
Upton has been an interesting case to say the least. The offensive production is there, ranking top 30 in both goals and assists. The physical play is there too, being top 20 in both hits and shots blocked. The real question is, can Upton develop into a lockdown defender. If she can, she will turn into a complete two-way defender. I personally see her doing it. Since joining Mexico City, she has been one of the hardest working players on the entire team.
 
27. Ziarie Anigbogu (MIN)
@ngine4

0.47 Goals per 60 (15th)
1.73 Assists per 60 (14th)
+1.10 Plus/Minus per 60 (19th)
0.89 Hits per 60 (48th)
2.73 Shots Blocked per 60 (32nd)
 
Anigbogu has been a solid defender for the Storm. He isn’t physical, ranking 48th in hits per 60, but he is solid at locking down opponents. His biggest strength has to be his offensive instinct. He ranks top 15 among defensemen on this list in both goals and assists per 60. He frequently jumps up into the rush and is a good two-way compliment to any lineup. I can’t wait to see him jump to the VHL.
 
26. Roseann Petal (LVA)
@Psanchez55

0.43 Goals per 60 (17th)
1.54 Assists per 60 (16th)
+0.00 Plus/Minus per 60 (32nd)
3.57 Hits per 60 (34th)
2.82 Shots Blocked per 60 (28th)
 
Petal has been one of the best defenders on the ice for the Aces all season, and not just defensively. Petal plays a mix of physical play and lockdown defence. It has worked, ranking around the top 30 in most defensive categories. Petal also plays great in the offensive zone, ranking top 20 in both goals and assists per 60. It will be fun to see the development that Petal will go through over the next few seasons.
 
25. Teriyaki Chicken (MIS)
@Hpep

0.73 Goals per 60 (5th)
0.89 Assists per 60 (34th)
-0.78 Plus/Minus per 60 (35th)
3.75 Hits per 60 (31st)
3.49 Shots Blocked per 60 (21st)
 
Chicken has been playing good for the Hounds this year. The most notable improvement has been in his physical play. He has been blocking more shots than ever before and this didn’t damage his already impressive lockdown and hitting skills. His offensive skills have picked up too. He chips in with the odd assist, but he has a booming slapshot which frequently finds a way past opposing goaltenders.
 
24. Joe Jacks (HFX)
@ashton112

0.63 Goals per 60 (8th)
0.54 Assists per 60 (43rd)
-1.95 Plus/Minus per 60 (43rd)
5.26 Hits per 60 (19th)
4.43 Shots Blocked per 60 (10th)
 
Jacks has been a force for the 21st on the defensive size of the ice. He ranks top 20 in both hits and shots blocked per 60. His lockdown game can use a bit of work, but he has the physical aspect down. His offensive production is mostly goals, coming from his booming slapshot. He often chips in with assists every now and then though. It will be interesting to see how good Jacks will get after the dispersal draft.
 
23. Lester Green (SDM)
@Smarch

0.26 Goals per 60 (25th)
0.99 Assists per 60 (31st)
+0.57 Plus/Minus per 60 (25th)
6.37 Hits per 60 (9th)
2.77 Shots Blocked per 60 (31st)
 
Green has been a solid defender for the Marlins. We have witnessed strides in his lockdown and physical game this season as he moves more towards a two-way defender. His shot blocking numbers are down, but his hits are up and when you take the puck away at the line, you don’t need to block shots. It will be interesting to watch his development continue this season.
 
22. Breeze Ladrian (MEX)
@Kelsier

0.14 Goals per 60 (40th)
1.16 Assists per 60 (24th)
-0.82 Plus/Minus per 60 (37th)
6.06 Hits per 60 (11th)
5.04 Shots Blocked per 60 (7th)
 
The best defenseman in Mexico City this season has been Ladrian. We have seen growth in his physical game this season. He has added the physical aspect in terms of shot blocking and hitting at the blue line. His playmaking game has taken strides too. Ladrian frequently hops in the rush and will feed the puck to the forwards, giving them great opportunities to score.
 
21. Emi Rune (SSK)
@Emi

0.31 Goals per 60 (21st)
2.08 Assists per 60 (8th)
+0.42 Plus/Minus per 60 (26th)
1.14 Hits per 60 (47th)
3.90 Shots Blocked per 60 (16th)
 
Rune has been a staple on the defensive side of the puck for the Wild this season. She still is one of the best lockdown defenders but the biggest defensive stride I have seen from her this season is her shot blocking. She’s always trying to get into the shooting lanes and it is noticeable on the ice. Her offensive game has also picked up, becoming a playmaker in the offensive zone. Rune is expected to stay in the VHLM next season, but it will be interesting to see if her VHL wants her up once she is drafted.
 
20. Curtis Rockwall (PHI)
@Kcoley26

0.31 Goals per 60 (22nd)
0.44 Assists per 60 (46th)
-1.37 Plus/Minus per 60 (39th)
7.98 Hits per 60 (4th)
6.43 Shots Blocked per 60 (3rd)
 
Kicking off our top 20 defenders is Curtis Rockwall of the Philadelphia Reapers. With the insane number of shots that the Reapers have been subjected to, their defense has been blocking a lot of them. Rockwall is a physical defender, playing a style which involves standing up players at the line and getting in the shooting lanes. His lockdown skills can use some work, but he looks like he is on his way to being a staple shutdown defender.
 
19. Gavin Harris (PHI)
@BigIrish

0.07 Goals per 60 (47th)
1.53 Assists per 60 (17th)
-2.00 Plus/Minus per 60 (45th)
12.12 Hits per 60 (2nd)
6.53 Shots Blocked per 60 (2nd)
 
Paired up with the recently mentioned Rockwall is Gavin Harris. Harris plays the exact same physical style as Rockwall, but puts up offensive numbers a lot more frequently. His assists keep piling up when he jumps up into the rush. It will be interesting to see if he becomes more offensive or if he becomes a stay at home. Becoming a complete two-way defender would be difficult for Harris, but I think he can do it, especially with the Reapers coaching staff’s reputation of grooming some VHL greats.
 
18. Kirishima Wakaro (MIA)
@Snussu

0.17 Goals per 60 (35th)
1.94 Assists per 60 (10th)
+1.35 Plus/Minus per 60 (15th)
5.49 Hits per 60 (16th)
2.62 Shots Blocked per 60 (34th)
 
Wakaro has been a stable defender for the Marauders since coming over from Mexico City. He has been putting up solid offensive numbers all season, ranking at 10th in assists per 60 among defensemen. His defensive game has taken strides too, becoming one of the best two-way defenders in the VHLM. It will be interesting to see how he adjusts to the VHL when the time comes.
 
17. Han Jae Kuk (SDM)
@Dtayl

0.35 Goals per 60 (20th)
2.71 Assists per 60 (3rd)
+0.90 Plus/Minus per 60 (20th)
3.71 Hits per 60 (32nd)
2.81 Shots Blocked per 60 (29th)
 
Kuk has been one of the best offensive defenders in the league. His ability to set up teammates for goals and use his booming slapshot to put the puck in the net himself is amazing for a defenseman. He is no slouch defensively either, becoming one of the league’s best shutdown defenders. It will be interesting to see him perform at the next level with the quick development he has experienced so far.
 
16. Gabriel Johnson (HOU)
@GeckoeyGecko

0.61 Goals per 60 (9th)
0.71 Assists per 60 (37th)
+2.74 Plus/Minus per 60 (1st)
6.19 Hits per 60 (10th)
1.42 Shots Blocked per 60 (47th)
 
Johnson has quickly asserted himself as one of the best lockdown defensemen in the league. He plays a physical game, ranking 10th in hits per 60 as he frequently stops opposing forwards at the blue line. His offensive game has taken big lengths too. He frequently puts assists on the board but is also a goal scoring defender, possessing a booming one timer and wrist shot. I can’t wait to see how he takes his game to the next level in the Founder’s Cup Playoffs.
 
15. Jiggly Gumballs (OTT)
@JigglyGumballs

0.70 Goals per 60 (6th)
2.24 Assists per 60 (6th)
+1.54 Plus/Minus per 60 (14th)
2.81 Hits per 60 (37th)
2.54 Shots Blocked per 60 (40th)
 
Gumballs has been a solid two-way defender for the Lynx all season long. His lockdown game has taken major strides from last year, ranking 14th in plus/minus. He doesn’t play very physical, but his offensive game has also shown growth, ranking 6th among defensemen in both goals and assists per 60. It will be interesting to see when he heads off to the Los Angeles Stars as Gumballs is nearing the VHLM’s TPE cap.
 
14. Hunter Harrison (MIN)
@I'll change this later

0.27 Goals per 60 (23rd)
1.43 Assists per 60 (19th)
+2.39 Plus/Minus per 60 (3rd)
5.74 Hits per 60 (15th)
2.02 Shots blocked per 60 (43rd)
 
Harrison has been having a great season on the Storm. He puts goals and assists on the board on the regular. His lockdown game has also seen improving, jumping up to the 3rd best in the league in plus/minus per 60 amongst defensemen. It will be interesting to see Harrison suit up for the Storm heading into the playoffs and the slow but noticeable development in his shot blocking.
 
13. Matty Socks (MIA)
@fishy

1.21 Goals per 60 (2nd)
2.27 Assists per 60 (5th)
+1.95 Plus/Minus per 60 (5th)
1.27 Hits per 60 (45th)
1.90 Shots Blocked per 60 (45th)
 
Socks has been one of the best two-way defenders in the league this season, ranking top 5 in goals, assists and plus/minus per 60. Socks only falls outside of the top 10 because he does not play a very physical game. His shot blocking has seen spades of improvement. Even though he isn’t recording a lot of shot blocks, he gets in the lanes the right way and with Miami having the best defense in the league, they do not give up a lot of shots. Socks will be a player to watch as he jumps to the VHL next season.
 
12. Agapov Askarov (SSK)
@Kachur

0.47 Goals per 60 (14th)
0.52 Assists per 60 (44th)
+1.66 Plus/Minus per 60 (11th)
5.91 Hits per 60 (38th)
3.60 Shots Blocked per 60 (23rd)
 
Askarov has been a great player for the Wild all season long. The physical side of his game has seen minimal growth, but it is still noticeable. The biggest growth has come in his lockdown game. He continues to frustrate opposing forwards every time he is on the ice. He also comes with an offensive side this year, ranking 14th amongst defensemen goals per 60. It will be interesting to see him help Saskatoon push for a second straight Founder’s Cup title.
 
11. Mikeal Keef (OTT)
@RStar

0.70 Goals per 60 (7th)
1.57 Assists per 60 (15th)
+1.18 Plus/Minus per 60 (17th)
2.66 Hits per 60 (38th)
3.40 Shots Blocked per 60 (23rd)
 
Just missing out on our top 10 is Mikeal Keef of the Ottawa Lynx. Keef has had a season to remember, both offensively and defensively. If you were to watch bits of film of his defensive play last year versus this year, it is like night and day. The growth there is extremely noticeable. He has also turned into a two-way threat, becoming a regular on the scoresheet for the Lynx. It will be interesting to see how he will slot into the Lynx defensive core come playoff time.
 
10. Fat Palloon (YKN)
@UnkemptCL4PTP

0.41 Goals per 60 (19th)
1.89 Assists per 60 (11th)
-0.86 Plus/Minus per 60 (38th)
7.39 Hits per 60 (5th)
3.34 Shots Blocked per 60 (18th)
 
Kicking off the top 10 is Fat Palloon of the Yukon Rush. Despite Yukon having an abysmal season and dropping his plus/minus rating to 38th in the league, he has had a great season and ranks in the top 20 for goals, assists, hits and shot blocks per 60. His physicality is the most noticeable part of his game this year, different from his more conservative style last year.
 
9. Zachariah Kisslinger (OTT)
@Kisslinger

0.41 Goals per 60 (18th)
0.89 Assists per 60 (32nd)
+0.89 Plus/Minus per 60 (21st)
7.00 Hits per 60 (6th)
3.64 Shots Blocked per 60 (18th)
 
Kisslinger is still a young defender with a lot of room to grow, but we saw a lot of growth in both the defensive and physical aspects of his game. He now ranks top 20 in shots blocked and just missed the top 5 for hits, ranking at 6th. He was a pure offensive defender coming into the league and has now transitioned seamlessly into a two-way defender. It will be interesting to see how his growth continues from here as his offensive game hasn’t slowed down.
 
8. Shawn Glade III (MIN)
@ShawnGlade

0.49 Goals per 60 (13th)
1.53 Assists per 60 (18th)
+1.14 Plus/Minus per 60 (18th)
5.94 Hits per 60 (13th)
3.11 Shots Blocked per 60 (27th)
 
Glade is a complete defenseman at the VHLM level, ranking 30 in shots blocked and top 20 in goals, assists, plus/minus and hits. He plays that grindy style that Minnesota is known for and it has paid off for him. He still has a lot of room to grow and it will be interesting to see how his coaches will use him at the VHL level when the time comes as he is very versatile.
 
7. Lucifer Olivier Leveque (SDM)
@InstantRockstar

1.00 Goals per 60 (3rd)
2.51 Assists per 60 (4th)
+1.71 Plus/Minus per 60 (9th)
1.25 Hits per 60 (46th)
3.11 Shots Blocked per 60 (26th)
 
Leveque has been a complete force offensively and defensively. He ranks in the top 5 among defensemen in both goals and assists per 60. He also ranks top 10 in plus/minus, solidifying his reputation for being a shutdown guy who can also pile points on the board when the offensive opportunity pops up. It will be interesting to see if he can lead San Diego on a long playoff run.
 
6. Markus Schauer (HOU)
@Plate

0.58 Goals per 60 (11th)
2.97 Assists per 60 (2nd)
+1.59 Plus/Minus per 60 (13th)
4.82 Hits per 60 (22nd)
2.54 Shots blocked per 60 (39th)
 
Just like Leveque who we just mentioned, Schauer has been all over the ice and is very effective in all 3 zones. He still has his offensive game, ranking 2nd in assists and 11th in goals, but his defensive and physical aspects have seen growth. He has become one of RJ’s staple two-way guys in Houston. It will be fun to see where he goes in the VHL. I’m sure he will be a great player wherever he goes.
 
5. Gabriel Akerstrom (LVA)
@Mason

0.14 Goals per 60 (38th)
2.23 Assists per 60 (7th)
+2.09 Plus/Minus per 60 (4th)
4.68 Hits per 60 (24th)
4.24 Shots Blocked per 60 (12th)
 
Akerstrom has been an absolute force for the Aces this season. He isn’t a noted goal scorer, but he frequently chips in production with his excellent playmaking ability. His physical game has seen growth from last year, but where the real growth is shown is by the development of his lockdown coverage. His game from the beginning of the season till now in the defensive zone looks like night and day. If I were a VHL team looking at him, I would be excited to see what he can do at the next level.
 
4. Bobby Wyman (SSK)
@Lefty_S

0.57 Goals per 60 (12th)
1.40 Assists per 60 (20th)
+0.39 Plus/Minus per 60 (27th)
11.34 Hits per 60 (3rd)
3.94 Shots Blocked per 60 (15th)
 
Wyman just missed out of the top 3 on our list, finishing in 4th. However, he is still a top defender in the league. His physical game has seen development as he ranks 3rd in hits and 15th in shot blocks per 60. His lockdown coverage has seen noticeable improvement but I think he needs a little bit more growth there to become a two-way defender for a VHL team. His offensive game also made major strides, ranking top 20 in both goals and assists per 60. It will be interesting to see how he is used in a VHL lineup and he has the work ethic to become a complete player.
 
3. Riley Knight Gee (HOU)
@KnightRiley

1.35 Goals per 60 (1st)
3.26 Assists per 60 (1st)
+1.91 Plus/Minus per 60 (6th)
4.39 Hits per 60 (28th)
2.57 Shots Blocked per 60 (37th)
 
The current VHLM points leader ranks at 3rd. Gee has been an offensive force this season, becoming the staple back end setup guy that Houston’s power play desperately needed in previous years. He ranks 1st in goals and assists which is impressive and he is also a good shutdown guy too, ranking 6th in plus/minus. The only thing his game really lacks is physicality and you don’t need to be physical to be successful. Gee is one of the top defensemen in the VHLM and I can’t wait to the him in a VHL uniform next season.
 
2. Wolf Stansson (MIA)
@ahockeyguy

0.59 Goals per 60 (10th)
1.88 Assists per 60 (12th)
+1.72 Plus/Minus per 60 (8th)
5.97 Hits per 60 (12th)
2.80 Shots Blocked per 60 (30th)
 
Stansson just missed out on the number one spot, but he is still a great defender. The ultimate two-way guy that fit into any lineup. He ranked 10th in goals and 12th in assists and has been a regular on the scoresheet in Miami. He ranks 8th in plus/minus and plays a very grindy shutdown style which proves effective against the small and elusive forwards in today’s game. He is physical at the line and ranks 12th in hits. He ranks 30th in shots blocked but just like Socks, his form is there. He only ranks low because Miami is good at keeping the number of shots opposing teams take extremely low. Stansson will grow into a staple defender for a VHL club and I can’t wait to see what he turns into once he makes the jump.
 
1. Bo Burrow (MIN)
@Walter Fizz

0.77 Goals per 60 (4th)
1.37 Assists per 60 (21st)
+2.46 Plus/Minus per 60 (2nd)
5.03 Hits per 60 (20th)
3.45 Shots Blocked per 60 (22nd)
 
Bo Burrow of the Minnesota Storm is the number one defender in the VHLM based on the rankings! He sits around the middle of the pack in terms of his physical play, but the skills portion is where he really stands out. He has become a regular on the scoresheet for the Storm, chipping in with assists and goals all the time. Defensively, his lockdown game continues to frustrate opposing forwards and usually he prevents a clean entry, leading to his shots blocked falling. I can’t wait to see Burrow make the jump to the VHL and I think he will be a great addition to any VHL roster.
 
 
(6295 words, 32044 characters)

Being my first character on the VHL it is difficult to look towards the future when the present has only just begun. However, I do enjoy the creation portion of sim-leagues very much, my current SBA and VHL characters are named Julius Caesar II and William Shakespeare II. Evidently, I enjoy going for a history theme for my characters names and I feel like that helps me add a little but extra to my media spots which let them be both more interesting to write and more interesting to read. So then the question is raised; what do my future re-creates in the VHL look like? Well the only way to answer that is to look to the past.
 
Lü Bu

When it comes to history not much is both as fun and interesting as the Romance of the Three Kingdom. Romance of the Three Kingdom’s is a historical novel set in the years towards the end of the Han dynasty in Chinese history.  The story as the name indicators heavily romanticizes the lives of the feudal lords and retainers of the time. Lü Bu is a character both within Chinese history and the Romance of the Three Kingdoms; within the romance  is a nearly invincible warrior but was a incapable leader and noted for his poor planning and management skills. Infact Lü Bu was once easily manipulated into killing his own father:
 
“Lü Bu said, "But we are father and son!" Wang Yun replied, "Your family name is Lü so you have no blood relations with him. Lü Bu agreed to join them and personally killed Dong Zhuo (His Father figure) later.”
 
Overall Lü Bu is an incredibly fun character that I think is summed up well with this he by Sanguozhi:
 
‘Lü Bu possessed the might of a tiger, but he lacked the planning skills of a talented person. He was frivolous
and temperamental, and was only concerned about the gains he could make. Throughout history, there had never been such persons like him who did not end up being destroyed.”
 
So, what does this mean in terms of Lü Bu within the VHL, well the choice isn’t as obvious as it seems. Lü Bu could be represented by a player that is unparalleled in the ability to score. But Lü Bu could also be a player that speciality is fighting. Overall, I think both are important to create an accurate representation of Lü Bu in the VHL. Looking to the past for a player example Podrick Cast has the dynamic scoring that a Lü Bu should have:
 

However, as I’m sure you have noticed Podrick has 95 leadership, Lü Bu was famous for being a terrible leader so those points can safely be put into fighting. Finally, I have come to an understating that fighting is not a stat that helps the team win. For these reasons I don’t think Lü Bu will find his way to the VHL through me until I am in a situation in which  I am free to create a character that is more for fun then for winning.

Working on it ?

Review: Wow, this was something! It was well-researched, including both stats and info on the players. When are we going to get a defenseman-oriented one? And then a goalies? You're tired out, you say? lol jk. It would be awesome to see where Bacon would go. So if I understood correctly, you weighted goals, assists, +/-, and shots equally, right? I wonder: would there have been a better way? I mean, probably not easier, but better? I really enjoyed this! You had the graphics on each team, and it might have been fun to have an overarching graphic, like the VHLM logo, or, of course, the Marauders logo haha. Awesome job, man! Score: 9.8/10

The Miami Marauders currently sit tied for second with Ottawa, both trailing Houston. Wolf Stansson has been playing well as of late, but it hasn’t always translated into wins. At present the Marauders are on a seven-game winning streak, having achieved a 9-1 record in the past 10 games. Stansson has eleven goals and 35 assists for 46 points in 47 games. He has a 10.58% shooting percentage, which is excellent for a defenseman. Seven of his 11 goals have come on the power-play unit. He’s added on 16 assists there as well. Fully half his points have come on special teams, and he’s only played one-third of his time on those units. He has nearly as many shots as he does hits, suggesting he is playing well on both sides of the game. These were his goals. So would he consider this season a success?
 
               “I can’t possibly know the answer to that at this time,” he says, appearing slightly exasperated at the question. “I will only know if the season is a success at the end, when the championship trophy is awarded. Then I can tell you.” He appears less on edge than he did the last time I interviewed him. He is relaxed in shoulders, pleasant in demeanor. Like he was in the old days before he was ever drafted into the VHLM. But he still has a slight edge to his voice. He still interprets questions to be about whether or not he is good enough.
 
               “I just wish we could get past Minny,” he breathes out ruefully. “They’ve been our rival since the inception of the franchise!” He’s not wrong. Last season, Minnesota was built not only to contend, but to win the title. Miami was not, to put it bluntly. In their very first outing, Miami was expected to be crushed by the Minnesota juggernaut. It did not happen. The Marauders enjoyed their very first victory in their very first game as a franchise! From there it went back and forth, and spilled over into the playoffs. An epic first-round battle culminated in a Game 7, where Minnesota eventually claimed victory.
 
               This season is different, with Minnesota winning most of the games so far, leading the season series 4-2, with two games left to play. The first game was an OT thriller, with Minnesota prevailing. Miami rebounded with a 3-0 win, and won again the second to last time these two teams met. The last time these two teams met was a 3-1 loss for Miami, with Stansson scoring the lone goal, on the power-play. “It doesn’t feel very good to score, looking back, when you still lost,” he laments. “It would’ve been better for me if I hadn’t scored, but we won 3-1.”
 
               He really just wants to win, and to contribute second. It’s in his competitive nature. He’s team-first, but he really wants to participate as well. Some days he gets his wish, and others he does not. Will they overcome Minnesota in their final two games against them, or in the playoffs? The VHLM will soon know.

The Miami Marauders currently sit tied for second with Ottawa, both trailing Houston. Wolf Stansson has been playing well as of late, but it hasn’t always translated into wins. At present the Marauders are on a seven-game winning streak, having achieved a 9-1 record in the past 10 games. Stansson has eleven goals and 35 assists for 46 points in 47 games. He has a 10.58% shooting percentage, which is excellent for a defenseman. Seven of his 11 goals have come on the power-play unit. He’s added on 16 assists there as well. Fully half his points have come on special teams, and he’s only played one-third of his time on those units. He has nearly as many shots as he does hits, suggesting he is playing well on both sides of the game. These were his goals. So would he consider this season a success?
 
               “I can’t possibly know the answer to that at this time,” he says, appearing slightly exasperated at the question. “I will only know if the season is a success at the end, when the championship trophy is awarded. Then I can tell you.” He appears less on edge than he did the last time I interviewed him. He is relaxed in shoulders, pleasant in demeanor. Like he was in the old days before he was ever drafted into the VHLM. But he still has a slight edge to his voice. He still interprets questions to be about whether or not he is good enough.
 
               “I just wish we could get past Minny,” he breathes out ruefully. “They’ve been our rival since the inception of the franchise!” He’s not wrong. Last season, Minnesota was built not only to contend, but to win the title. Miami was not, to put it bluntly. In their very first outing, Miami was expected to be crushed by the Minnesota juggernaut. It did not happen. The Marauders enjoyed their very first victory in their very first game as a franchise! From there it went back and forth, and spilled over into the playoffs. An epic first-round battle culminated in a Game 7, where Minnesota eventually claimed victory.
 
               This season is different, with Minnesota winning most of the games so far, leading the season series 4-2, with two games left to play. The first game was an OT thriller, with Minnesota prevailing. Miami rebounded with a 3-0 win, and won again the second to last time these two teams met. The last time these two teams met was a 3-1 loss for Miami, with Stansson scoring the lone goal, on the power-play. “It doesn’t feel very good to score, looking back, when you still lost,” he laments. “It would’ve been better for me if I hadn’t scored, but we won 3-1.”
 
               He really just wants to win, and to contribute second. It’s in his competitive nature. He’s team-first, but he really wants to participate as well. Some days he gets his wish, and others he does not. Will they overcome Minnesota in their final two games against them, or in the playoffs? The VHLM will soon know.

I'll take the reduction in points in the M any day if it means a shot at the championship. I'm a contributing member of a great team, and it feels good. The guys are cool to be around, too, which is important to me. If the LR was bad, and the team didn't care to improve, then I wouldn't be having fun. But I am!

I have built Miami over two seasons to become a juggernaut. I drafted valuable members last season that would be in Miami for two seasons in hopes they would be key pieces for this seasons cup run. After last season we have a ton of top picks in the draft so we began to fill out our roster with top players to create some serious depth. After that I made moves to bring in even more depth to help bring us to the promise land but is it worth it?
 
I am struggling to wonder if having so much talent on one roster is a good thing for the league or not. Yes we have a great chance to be champions but that is never a guarantee. The sacrifice each player is making to share ice time with one another to win a championship is big but is it worth it if they aren’t having fun? Having so many players who are elite getting less ice time is causing everyone’s production to be less but more evenly spread across the board. Yes it is a team game but it is only the VHLM right? Should players be put in a position to feel good about themselves so they want to stick around longer or does the idea of being a champion in the VHLM make them want to stick around longer?  
 
That is something I am still trying to learn as a young GM.

First let’s take a look at Cole Newhook. Drafted 35oa in season s72, the center is looking to break into the Moscow roster next year. This year he’s put up an astounding 37 points in just 25 games. Palloon, a defender drafted 33oa in s73, is off to a great start with the Yukon. He’s put up 32 points so far on the blue line, and should look great in a menace jersey in the future! Moscow’s recent 1st rounder Stansson has put up 21 points so far this season from the blue line. It looks like he’ll be a stud in the not so distant future for the Menace. Angellini, who was drafted 47oa in s72, is looking like it could be one of @Victor’s most insane draft steals of all time. Kinda like how he drafted me, but then 10x that. He racked up 40 tpe in one week somehow. Oh, and he has 45 points in the first 25 games. Did I mention he was 47oa??
 
@ahockeyguy @GrittyIsKing09 @UnkemptCL4PTP @okifenoki
Remember boys, you are the future of the MENACE!!
 
 

Review: This is highly entertaining stuff, something I have come to expect when reading your work! I especially liked the visual planted in my head of Jim Bob running away from bar bouncers, and the creativity of having him potentially faking an injury (I mean, it's probable, but I love that it's a kind of wondering in the article). Be careful of some grammar things (e.g., run-on sentences), but otherwise, I really like the structure, story, and info you give in this article. I look forward to seeing what Jim Bob is going to do next! Score: 7/10.

I'm Canadian, so....yeah ?

Awesome job! I will say that Houston is larger, population-wise, than Miami!

MY RETURN TO HOUSTON
By: Patrik Laine
 
INTRODUCTION:
As many of you may remember, I was a part of the Houston Bulls organization during Season 72. I was selected by the Miami Marauders in round 5 of the VHLM draft. This is my story about my return to Houston. Let's begin.
 
CHAPTER 1: ARRIVAL
We were coming off of a close 2-1 loss to the Las Vegas Aces. When I got on the plane, I took a look at who was next on the schedule. I seen it was Houston, and my initial reaction was one of joy. I had played there for a year, made good friends with the locals and it would be nice to see them again. All I could think about was Houston. My former home. Once we landed, the airport security that always used to see me once we landed smiled at me. One of them said "Welcome back to Houston, Laine.". I looked over with a smile and gave them a nod. We hopped on a bus and went to our hotel. I took a shower and then went to bed.
 
CHAPTER 2: DAY OFF
We had a free day in Houston before our game. I woke up early, at 7:30 and was out of the hotel room by 8. Practice was until 9:30. After practice, I went for a 2 hour walk around downtown Houston. Many fans greeted me and asked for autographs as I completed my walk. Of course, I complied. I also stopped at a hockey shop to purchase a little gift for my friend, Houston's starting goaltender Drew Minott. He had always told me how he wanted a certain stick, pads and mask that match well. I picked up a few items I had custom ordered. Those items were the CCM Axis goalie pads, a mask with a custom paint job and the CCM Extreme Flex 4 goalie stick. Both the stick and pads came with a Houston styled paint job and the mask came with a custom paint job that I asked one of my good friends to make. I texted Minott and asked him if he wanted to meet up for lunch at a cafe that we always went to for lunch back when we played in Houston. He shot me a text back and said sure and we decided to meet there at 12:00 PM. I had the stick, pads and mask in my hotel room and would give them to him later. I walked in right at 12 and he was there waiting for me. We sat down and we talked for a bit before we ordered. He was having a great season playing in Houston, while I was scoring lots of points over in Miami. Once our food came, we had lunch. Afterwards, we drove over to his house. I was sure to bring the gear with me in secret and I surprisingly did a good job hiding it. We hung out for a few hours at his house. Around 3:30, I got a text from coach telling me to be at the hotel for 4 PM. Minott offered to drive me but I said I could walk. As I left, I told him I left him a surprise in his garage which was the goalie gear. Not sure how he reacted to it, but hopefully he enjoyed it. I arrived at the hotel at 3:55 and coach and most of the team was there. We hopped on the team bus and drove about an hour down south to Galveston, Texas. We all got to relax on the beach until about 8 PM. It was a lot of fun. We drove back and arrived back in Houston at 9 PM. We went to our hotel rooms and prepared for tomorrow's game.
 
CHAPTER 3: GAME DAY
I woke up at 7, as I do on every game day. I was downstairs eating breakfast by 7:30 and we arrived at the rink at 9 for the morning skate. After the morning skate, I went to that cafe for lunch. I took one of my teammates, Dakota Lamb, with me. He said he enjoyed the food there and the people were nice. It was 3 PM and the game was set to begin at 6. As usual, I arrived at the rink first, making my entrance at 3:30. I went out to the bench and performed my pre-game rituals. I went back to the locker room at 4 and began taping my sticks. All the other guys began to roll in around 4:30. I seemed nervous before the game according to my teammates and of course I was. I went to the equipment room to get my skates sharpened and coach asked me if I had a minute. I told him my skates were being sharpened, so I follow him. He took me into the visitor's coaching office and he told me the following: "Listen, I know your nervous about playing tonight because you are back in Houston. That is all past you now. I want you to go out there and play 60 minutes of your best hockey that you have been giving us all season long. I'm moving you up to 1st line left wing tonight, so show me what you can do. You will be playing on a line with Lamb and Sens." I gave him a nod and said "I won't let you down coach." We went out for warmups at around 5:15. I went out first and I heard a little cheer from the crowd as I went out. Across the ice, Houston came out a few minutes later. I tapped Minott on the pads and stopped to chat with him for a little bit. Then went right back to skating. Houston had a few of my very good friends on their team. Goaltender Drew Minott, Forwards Venus Thightrap and Defender Markus Schauser just to name a few. I skated by Thightrap a little bit later in warmup and gave her a tap on the skates. The next time I skated by, she gave me a tap by and stopped. "So, how is Miami?" she asked. "Good, certainly a bigger responsibility over here in Miami but it has been good to me so far." I replied. "You miss Houston a bit?" she said. "Yeah, Houston is a smaller city and it is a tighter community around here, but Miami has been fun." I replied with a smile. "Well, good luck tonight" she said with a smile. I replied with a small grin "Better keep your head up, I may hit you a few times" and laughed. "Oh, just wait for when I hit you" she laughed. We gave each other a high five and skated our seperate ways. Warmups were finished at about 5:45. We went into the locker room and listened to coach's pregame speech: "Now, I know that was a big loss to Vegas the other night, but that is behind you. We have a special man in this room who is returning to his former home for the first time. Patty played in Houston last year when they were terrible. Now, Houston is good. So, tell everyone Patty, do you want to beat Houston?" he asked. "Yes, let's play 60 minutes of our best hockey and show them Miami is the real deal!" I said. "Good, Now for the starting lines" coach began, "At forward, we will have Patty, Dak and Sens. On defense we will have Howler and Matty and we will have Bacon in net. Let's go boys!" We made our way out onto the ice and I was ready for the puck drop. The referee blew his whistle and down went the puck.
 
CHAPTER 4: MIAMI VS HOUSTON
I wanted to make an impact right away. In the first few minutes, I didn't have a lot of puck time, but that all changed in one singular play. Thightrap had the puck for Houston along the boards and I gave her a nice hip check to take the puck away. I carried the puck into the zone and looked around to where to go with it. I was Andre going across the other side wide open. I fed the puck across and he one timed it perfectly, but Minott robbed him point blank, conveniently wearing the new gear I got him. We stayed on the puck. Andre got it right back on the rebound Minott gave up. He fed it back to Sens who got a shot off, but Schauser blocked it. The puck bounced right to Matty who slapped the rolling puck right into the net for the opening goal. We went to the bench after that shift energized. However, it didn't last long and it was 2-1 Houston going into the second. I started the second period off a little shaky, but around 6 minutes into the second, I had a perfect opportunity. Matty gave me a beautiful one timer pass, just the way we practiced setting them up. I blast it top right, but hit the crossbar and the rebound squirted out. I jumped into the corner to try and find it, but by the time I had tracked the puck down, so had Houston's defence and the puck was cleared out. The rest of the second period was good. I had a few hits and was good with the puck, making good choices but we still trailed 2-1 heading into the third. I told the team during the intermission that we were going to win this game and we would get these two points and they seemed to agree. We went into the third fired up and it showed. I had a pair of shots early. One was blocked and one missed the net, but it was fortunate. Wolf held it in and passed it to Sens, who gave Dak a one timer on a tee and it tied the game. I skated into the group hug and said "WHAT DID I TELL YOU? LET'S GO!". We got another power play with about 6 minutes left and we said that we were going to score here. Dak got a beauty of a shot off the faceoff but just missed. Sens went low and got the goal off of a wraparound to put us up 3-2! We had another power play a few minutes later. I got the puck off of the faceoff. Took a shot and hit the post....again. I quickly hustled to the puck and protected it with my body along the wall. I fed the puck over to Matty who fed it to King. King walked in and shot an absolute bullet shortside on Minott to extend the lead to 4-2. We won our game in Houston by a final score of 4-2. I was relieved. I gave Minott and Venus a wave as I made my way off the ice. They waved back. We went and got our stuff from the hotel and hopped right back on the bus to go to the airport. I looked up to my schedule. Next stop, Minnesota!
 
(1872 words, 9116 characters written by @PatrikLaine)
 
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With all of Wolf Stansson’s troubles with public image and the media lately, it was a bit of surprise to come across some good news with respect to the Miami Marauders defenseman. Earlier this week, Stansson could be seen volunteering at a local homeless shelter. Homeless individuals without a place to shelter during Miami’s scorching summers are invited to come to the Local City Mission, where free meals, a warm shower, and a clean bed and room are provided. Stansson’s role here is infrequent, mostly due to his hockey schedule.
 
               “He comes in when he can, he works the lunch line, talk with some of the residents, and help clean up afterward,” says Aisha Random-Lady of Stansson. “Wolf never makes a big deal about who he is; you never see him trying to get people to recognize him” This is probably a good thing, as a minor-league hockey player who tries to garner attention to how famous he is or thinks he should be is probably off-putting. Nonetheless, even as this reporter is composing this brief update, Stansson is totally unaware I am even here. He simply asks them if they would like one roll or two, places it on the tray, and moves on down. Because I did not interview him, I can only speculate as to why Stansson does what he does. This seeming dichotomy between Stansson the man and Stansson the player undoubtedly will be resolved for us one day.

With all of Wolf Stansson’s troubles with public image and the media lately, it was a bit of surprise to come across some good news with respect to the Miami Marauders defenseman. Earlier this week, Stansson could be seen volunteering at a local homeless shelter. Homeless individuals without a place to shelter during Miami’s scorching summers are invited to come to the Local City Mission, where free meals, a warm shower, and a clean bed and room are provided. Stansson’s role here is infrequent, mostly due to his hockey schedule.
 
               “He comes in when he can, he works the lunch line, talk with some of the residents, and help clean up afterward,” says Aisha Random-Lady of Stansson. “Wolf never makes a big deal about who he is; you never see him trying to get people to recognize him” This is probably a good thing, as a minor-league hockey player who tries to garner attention to how famous he is or thinks he should be is probably off-putting. Nonetheless, even as this reporter is composing this brief update, Stansson is totally unaware I am even here. He simply asks them if they would like one roll or two, places it on the tray, and moves on down. Because I did not interview him, I can only speculate as to why Stansson does what he does. This seeming dichotomy between Stansson the man and Stansson the player undoubtedly will be resolved for us one day.

1.    Miami began the season 9-0-1, a phenomenal start. How do you feel the team has lived up to the expectations set by many so far and how does the current start reflect your expectations for Miami this season?
         I think we are living up to external expectations. It's hard not to when you're #1 in the league. It's tougher living up to your own expectations, and it's harder to say if we're doing that.
 
2.    How satisfied are you with your player’s start to this season? What are your expectations as the season rolls on?
          I think I am doing pretty well overall. My PIMs recently shot up, and usually I need to be out of the box to help my team the most. I expect to improve in that area.
 
3.    A lot has been said about Miami as the Evil, the Heels of the M. Ten games in, how do you feel about that perception now?
         I've heard this said by us, but who else is saying this, and why? Stansson is so misunderstood lol!
 
4.    To bridge into the last few questions here; What part of your player’s game are you most focused on aside from SC and DF?
                Scoring and defense is where it's at. I'd like to improve in puckhandling and skating, too.
 
5.    If you could pick one skill that could be more effective in the sim, what would it be?
             Leadership. Intangibles are fun, and my understanding is leadership does little, if anything. It'd be awesome if there was a demonstrable correlation between leadership and performance of linemates, for example.
 
6.    With 16 teams in the VHL and 12 in the M, there’s plenty of space for more new members. With what took place with recruitment recently, what suggestions would you give to the recruiters of this league on how to attract new faces?
           I would give fun testimonials from players who enjoy it from different commitment levels--superstars and people who just do a little bit each week--on forums for the NHL.