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KaleebtheMighty
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Posts posted by KaleebtheMighty
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I’m willing to partake in this highly sophisticated form of stat tracking to determine if one of us was more fortunate than our other fellow players.
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With the S73 VHLM draft now complete, Miami selected a number of players to join their ranks including the all too familiar Victor Grachev. However, panic arose once players began to make their way into the Miami Marauders Ice Arena. More specifically, the locker room. It was crowded, full of new players becoming acclimated with current players, coaches, and staff. It wasn't until a few moments had passed when someone first made a comment in the locker room.
With all of the players selected, they might not have enough lockers for each player.
In a mad dash, some players immediately lay claim to certain lockers of choice, edging out others to secure their desired position. For players like Victor Grachev who just walked into the locker room, he was left with what was available at the moment. "I am happy to be Marauder," Grachev said in his trademark broken english. "But now I am worried, I have only fold out chair to use. And I must share today with others. What of this 'social distancing'? Who all will use Victor's chair?"
The sentiment was all jokes and good spirits in the locker room regardless of the many bodies in a relatively small space. With the draft complete and some trades now underway, Miami will look to solidify its roster to prepare for the next season and a possible playoff push. They may also look to create enough lockers in the room for all of the players. At least Victor Grachev hopes they will from his chair out in the hallway. -
With the S73 VHLM Dispersal Draft now complete, the VHLM teams are gearing up to prepare in the off season for another exciting season of hockey. But one team in particular feels especially ready. From all of the buzz regarding the first few rounds, it was the first round that drew everyone's attention. Rightfully so, it is the first round where the highest prospects are drafted. However, three teams in this draft had 3 first round picks. The San Diego Marlins had the 1st, 9th, and 12th, the Ottawa Lynx had the 2nd, 6th, and 10th, and the Miami Marauders had the 4th, 5th, and 7th picks. With that much weight to throw around from all three teams, it feels almost necessary to compare the overall star power each team chose in this draft now that the final player has been chosen. Each team will be listed with either a Good, Better, or Best grade as well as a quick analysis on their picks and why they received the rating chosen in this article.
To begin with, let's take a look at the far west coast with the 1st overall pick, the San Diego Marlins.
Not only did they get the player with the highest TPE in the draft, they garnered two excellent prospects with their other 2 picks. John Merrick needs no further examination, he is a highly skilled center with a bright future in the VHL. Along with Ryan Schwarz, the offense looks to hum like an absolute machine next season. Additionally, the prospect that really stood out amongst their picks in the draft was selected 9th overall, John LeClair II. Not only was he a S74 creation, he hit the ground running in his short time in the VHLM before the draft. Already amassing 135 TPE, the future looks bright for San Diego this year as they are poised to break away from their recent 10 win season with him as one of their top LWs.
SAN DIEGO: GOOD
Holding the 2nd overall pick plus two additional picks, the Ottawa Lynx look to further improve upon their 36-30-6 season. With Alec Volchenkov as their star of the draft, they arguably could make a deep playoff push if everything operates accordingly this upcoming season. Along with the assembly of picks S Kuchar (6) and Jiggly Gumballs (10), it's hard to imagine Ottawa not putting together a viable season worthy of a potential cup run in the S73 playoffs.
OTTAWA LYNX: BETTER
Even without a top 3 pick in the draft, the Miami Marauders made waves with their selections. Each of the prospects chosen in the draft have all been earning an average of 10.0 TPE or more consistently each week. And with two of their picks selecting the top 2 defensemen in the draft, they bolstered their defensive core tremendously. Matty Socks has the offensive prowess to effectively quarterback the ice and garner a high amount of assists while Victor Grachev seems to focus on shutting the opposition down as a true defensive defenseman. Even before selecting these two, the 4th pick addition of Kevin King not only ensures Miami's offense will be a force to reckon with but could push them to hoisting their first ever Founder's Cup.
MIAMI MARAUDERS: BEST
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Users mentioned: @Steve @Enorama @flyersfan1453 @SirRupertBarnes @S. Kuchar @JigglyGumballs @fishy @KaleebtheMighty @IamMOOSE- bigAL, SirRupertBarnes, Andre LeBastard and 4 others
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Although the Philadelphia Reaper's were knocked out of the playoffs, Victor Grachev seemed to be in better spirits the day after Game 7. With the VHL and VHLM drafts right around the corner, it's looking like Grachev will have his hands full. Already, some teams from the VHL have reached out to the defense-man to garner interest and details on the Russian prospect.
"I can't say who," Victor Grachev told Orson Brouwer of Center Ice Sports Media. "But they call Victor and ask questions, see what I am like. Even ask my favorite movie and favorite food!"
The talented Russian defense-man has been slowly climbing the rankings of the S73 draft class with his continued effort to better himself and his game. Currently sitting at the #29 rank among the draftees, Grachev could go in the second or even be a late first round pick. But with all of this going on, what is Victor Grachev up to now that the playoffs are over for the Reapers?
"Dinosaurs. And ice cream," the Russian said while walking through The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University with a large ice cream cone. "You see these? They're big bones!" Although his current interests may lie outside of the world of Hockey, rest assured the Russian prospect is ready for the next level and is preparing for his name to be called in the draft. -
It's fitting that today in Philadelphia brought about a cloudy, wet, and cool day. The mood around the city is grim. People seem to shuffle around their lives without that pep in their step from a week ago. Not a smile was seen for miles around. It almost seemed like no one wanted to process what happened last night, the terror on the ice.
"The Line Change", as it is now known. The dark reality of an unfortunate circumstance.
Game 7 of the Semifinals between the Philadelphia Reapers and the Saskatoon Wild was a battle. Period after period the two juggernauts of the VHLM battled until it went into overtime. One goal separated either team from advancing to the finals. One opportunity. One dream. Until a powerplay put Saskatoon into a prime spot to take advantage of overtime. For the most part, the Reapers held them off. Multiple shots were fired, but none found their way into the back of the net. And it seemed like the Reapers were going to be able to escape without giving up a goal. But as time expired on the powerplay, the unfortunate happened.
"We killed penalty, and I was told to change by the bench," Victor Grachev of the Philadelphia Reapers said. "I skated to bench, saw puck go into their zone. And suddenly I heard yelling, and they scored." It was that moment that was burned into the minds of many Reapers fans. The puck had been recovered by the Wild and moved up into the neutral zone when the penalty expired, causing the 2nd Penalty Killing unit of the Reapers to be exchanged for the 3rd Normal Line. And right there, that decision to change, may have cost them. While the Reapers were changing, Kazimir Komarov skated unopposed into the Reapers zone, fired a shot, and scored. Most of the fans in the arena failed to get up out of their seats for minutes after the game had ended. They couldn't believe it.
"We had them!" a disgruntled fan yelled when leaving. In fact, the Reapers nearly did. Halfway through the contest, the Reapers held a 3-1 lead over the Wild. "We just let them back," Grachev continued. "We played well, had the lead, and then stopped playing well. I don't know why..." Even the Reapers defense-man seemed off and distant throughout the post game interview. Whether it was over confidence or fatigue that got to the Philadelphia Reapers, most fans can now tell you exactly where they were when "The Line Change" occurred that knocked the Reapers out of the playoffs with no hardware to show for it. With such a star studded team bolstered by trades leading up to the deadline, the Reapers were seen as the #1 team in the power rankings and destined to win it all. But that's what makes the playoffs so incredibly special. It's a war between organizations that brings out the best and worst in each player. And last night, it brought about "The Line Change" for the Philadelphia Reapers. -
23 hours ago, Spence King said:
Philadelphia Reapers S72 Press Conference #8For week ending July 12
Answer ALL 6 for 2 TPE!
1) This Series with Saskatoon has been an all-out war every night for 60+ minutes. This series could have easily been the finals with debatable the two top teams. Tonight June 6th 2020 its do or die for the legendary S72 Reapers, How are you personally going to ensure victory in game 7?
2) Each game so fat in the 2nd Round has been some of the best hockey and most intense/exciting back and forth play… Other than game 4 where your team only managed a season low 8 Shots on net, WHAT HAPPENED !?
3) Who runs the music in the dressing room and what genre, or artist is usually playing on the team stereo before games?
4) Many of you this could potentially be the last time wearing a Philadelphia Reapers Jersey, whether you’re going into the VHLM dispersal draft or graduating to the pros, What has been your most memorable experience as a member of the Reapers Organization ?
5) With almost a dozen playoff games under your belt, How do you feel about your personal performance compare to your expectations ?
6) Are there any changes or improvements to increase activity and teammate communication that could be made in the Reapers Discord LR ?
1). Just play my game, give it my all, and hope the team comes out on top!
2). I don't know if it was how we slept or what, but we laid a serious egg. We couldn't get anything going. Passes weren't connecting, breakouts weren't forming the way we wanted, we just fell flat for the whole night.
3). I actually pop in my headphones for a majority of the locker room time before games. I like to get in my own head and really focus before I hit the ice.
4). I think the whole experience has been memorable, the fans and the organisation have really been there for me the entire time of my career beginnings. I'm very thankful to have worn a Reapers jersey in my career.
5). I'm still looking to improve, my +/- ratio is still too low for my liking. However, I have notched an assist so my passing has been improving!
6). I've found the locker room interaction level to be just about perfect. Nothing too crazy but some talk and planning going on. -
5 hours ago, Spence King said:Philadelphia Reapers S72 Press Conference #7
For week ending July 5th
Answer ALL 6 for 2 TPE!
ITS PLAYOFFS !!!!!!! #ReaperNation #Reaper4Life
1) For many of you this was either your first playoff series or first playoff series win, what is it that makes playoff hockey so much more intense?
2) With round one down after a smooth 4-1 victory in round one defeating Mississauga, what are your thoughts going into next round?
3) After round one if you had to name a team MVP who would you put the "Team Cape" on?
4) What has been your personal highlight of this S72 season?
5) Round 2 looks like the Reapers will be matched up against either SSK or MEX depending on the winner of the big game 7 between MIN and MIA. Regardless of either foreign Country (Canada/Mexico) Which team would you rather be matched up against? And if you honestly do not care, what make you think that way?
6) What skills have been your main focus on developing going into and as the playoffs progress?
1). In the playoffs, each game really counts. The regular season games can sometimes not matter as much, but here, each game is critical. Really brings out an energy on the ice.
2). Just gotta keep our heads in the right place and keep battling. We can't let one series win get to our heads too much, we could easily lose the next one.
3). Spencer Elsby, really showing up on the blue line with 8 points. He's been a rock in our D-core.
4). My personal highlight was netting my first goal with the Reapers. I'll remember that first one throughout my entire career.
5). SSK, I like being the lower team in the standings compared to our competition. Helps keep me focused on playing my best and not letting up. SSK has a crazy goal differential in the playoffs, and I think they might come out a little too sure of themselves after their 1st series win.
6). Passing and Puck Handling. My +/- rating is low so I'm really looking to improve my quality of passes and staying with the puck throughout the playoffs. -
3 hours ago, Spence King said:
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
Appreciate the analysis!
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CENTER ICE SPORTS MEDIA with a one on one interview with Victor Grachev, 06/29/2020 @ 15:13
Orson Brouwer: Good afternoon! Spencer Brouwer here with Center Ice Sports Media, and I'm here with Victor Grachev who has been slowly climbing the ranks of the Pre Draft rankings for the next season of the VHL with plenty of teams taking notice. But what is especially enticing is the possibility of being selected by one of the newest expansion teams to the VHL. Victor, when you came to the league, I presume you had dreams about playing for Moscow when you grew older. Looking at mock drafts, it may look like you will be headed somewhere else. Comments?
Victor Grachev: You know, as much as I want to play for Moscow, I just want to play. I go where my draft team needs me. If I play New York, I play. If I play London, I play.
O: Right, you could have the unique chance of being a relatively new player to that franchise, give people a new player to root for.
V: When put that way, it is nice! Victor want to play hockey, and doesn't matter what team it is.
O: Another reality that a lot of new players face in the league is the idea of being traded. I know when you played in St. Petersburg, you tried out, signed with the club, and played two solid seasons there. Do you think about what it would be like to be traded at all in the future as a hockey player?
V: I do think about this sometime, and it is important to remember this is business. Must be professional about it and go where I am traded, even if I love team I already play for.
O: Already with a professional mindset! Is that something you figured out on your own, or...
V: My father, he taught me how to behave and act. He was great to me as father and mentor.
O: I see, and I am absolutely sure he is proud of the player you are today. Victor before you head out to the ice to get ready for tonight's game, the story is that you have a fan group called The Pucking Russians who are now trending after a viral video of last night's game and the interview you gave in the locker room describing them. Any further comments on them?
V: Great group of friends, always good to have guys cheering me on at games.
O: You think they want you to end up somewhere specific in the upcoming draft?
V: Anywhere with vodka. Moscow could be nice, but we make anywhere fun. Thank you Orson.
O: Thanks Victor, good luck tonight.
V: Thanks, go Reapers. -
"Ублюдок, это была поездка!" a fan cried out in the 2nd period of the Philadelphia Reapers recent 2-1 win over the Mississauga Hounds. A few other fans nearby turned their heads to the call out in Russian, some in disgust and others with confusion. Russians were not commonplace in Philadelphia, especially in the stands of a VHLM game. But one thing drew them here. "GRACHEV! GRACHEV!" They cried out after seeing the Reaper defenseman connect with a solid hit on a Hounds forward. When asked who they were, hardly any of them gave a response. Mostly laughs, other Russian phrases until finally their name was called out in unison by the group.
They call themselves The Pucking Russians.
None of them stayed around for any sort of interview after the game. In fact, most disappeared fairly quickly when the final horn called out the end of the 3rd period, seemingly headed for bars in the surrounding area. Any sort of clarification of the group could only be described by the Reapers defenseman himself, Victor Grachev. "My guys! They support me as I come here to play!" Grachev said with a large grin after the game in the locker room. "Best buds around, make Philly home away from home. Sorry, were they loud?"
The Pucking Russians hail from Grachev's hometown of Cherepovets, Vologda Blast, Russia. Some hail as childhood teammates, others as friends according to Grachev. The group grew up together playing both competitive and recreational hockey in the surrounding region. Although Grachev is the only one who has made the jump over to the VHLM to play, he swears he isn't the best of the bunch. "Honor belongs to Aleksandr. Very good with puck, very scary hitter. But lot of.....drunk," Grachev laughed. "Take away bottle, well he kill you, but he would play very good. Very good." When asked if any others from his area would think about making the jump from Russia to the big leagues of the VHL, Victor stated that many considered it, but it would depend on how much he himself makes in terms of money. Why? "They need a LOT of drinking, you know how much vodka Aleksandr has? Scary amounts, I don't know how he stand sometimes," Victor said with a cheeky smile.
It might help Grachev to have some hometown support during the playoffs. Although the Reapers are winning their series 3 games to 1, Victor has one of the team's worst +/- ratings at -3 in the first 4 games. It could be nerves for the russian prospect, being that this is his first playoff run in his first season with the VHLM. The coaches of the Philadelphia Repears seem to grasp that fact, limiting Victor's ice time in the playoffs to around 14:08 compared to his regular season cap at around 18 minutes. Whatever the case, Grachev does have a small but loyal group of fans cheering him on every step of the way. If the Reapers do win this series, it might surprise nobody if The Pucking Russians try to grab Grachev after the game for some hometown celebrations in Philly. -
For the youth hockey players of Philadelphia, every day spent playing is a great day. But it's an even better day when they get the opportunity to meet a Philadelphia Reapers hockey player.
Victor Grachev spent the morning at Rizzo Ice Rink signing autographs, jerseys, and whatever else kids and adults alike brought with them. It was a fairly decent turn out of fans for the Russian Prospect set to be drafted potentially in the second round of the upcoming VHL draft. He spent every minute of that morning with a smile on his face, and the kids were overjoyed.
"I remember being kid once," Victor said. "Hockey is fun, and I bring joy when kids see hometown player here at rink." Even after handling a long line of eager fans, Victor was even more eager to lace up the skates and step out onto the ice to skate with the youth hockey players.
"I don't know if he sees it, but he's making these kids' days," the Mites youth hockey coach stated as he watched Victor skate around. "Some of these kids will remember it for a long time, especially having the ability to actually skate with him." Even with kids falling all over him and clinging to his legs, Victor was all smiles as he swiftly handled the pucks that were thrown his way. Already making his way into the heart of Philly, Victor Grachev looks ready to keep playing at a greater level with playoffs right around the corner.- DMaximus and mediocrepony
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44 minutes ago, Spence King said:Philadelphia Reapers S72 Press Conference #6
For week ending Jun 28
Answer ALL 6 for 2 TPE!
1) Legendary Sports analyst, from Channel 4 News Sports Champ Kind Just hit Philly with his famous “WHAMMY’ this morning announcing that the Philadelphia Reapers are the “Best Sports Team on the Planet”. What was your initial reaction to the news?
2) Who on the team is always the most vocal and always talking in the Locker Room and truly the biggest leader on the team vocally?
3) The Reapers have brought on A LOT of new faces since the trade Deadline. One of the more interesting names was the waiver pickup of Victor Grachev (New User+100% New to Sim leagues like VHL) However within two weeks Victor hit the ground running and looks so determined. Having already well surpassed the 100 TPE mark. Tell us more about Victor, what is he like in the Locker Room?
4) The VHL Draft and VHLM draft are looming around the corner, how important of a focus is your personal draft stock and how much are you paying attention to the draft rankings? If already VHL Drafted what are your thoughts knowing these are your potentially last dozen games in the M?
5)Overlord & GM Dmaximus was able to make several waiver claims after the Trade Deadline last week and most recently Philadelphia native Goaltender Kevin Malone who will be making his first start in a Reapers uniform tonight, With the video Jer posted online has gone viral over the weekend, Where Kevin is making his stepping into the Locker Room for the first time Kevin carrying a massive pot of his world famous chilly was quoted “Im Here and Im Here to Bring the Spiiiiiiiiiice” right as his feet slide out from under him and he threw chilli EVERYWHERE. ?
6)Expand in detail what it is that was the game changer enticing you as a player to sign with the Reapers this season/ For the rest of the team tell us something special from this season making you proud to be a Reaper and what are the best perks of playing for the Reapers Organization ?
1). I'm not surprised by this. The Reapers are rolling and look like an amazing team out on the ice. We work hard and will continue to put our best efforts out on the ice until we win the cup.
2). Bob Helminen is always vocal in the locker room and pushes us to win. He's very adamant on winning it all this year, and seeing that fire in practice everyday is really motivating.
3). Well, being that I am Victor, I would like to turn this around and thank the organization for giving me the opportunity to join the team when I did. Everyone here has been really great and I have had a lot of fun being a Philadelphia Reaper!
4). Although I do want to improve my draft stock, the more important thing for me is to win the cup this year with the Reapers. That's my main focus.
5). Some of that chili landed in my skates. I had to spend like an hour trying to rinse it out and get rid of the smell. But definitely a highlight in the locker room this year, what an entrance.
6). I felt that the Reapers were going to be my best chance at learning from talented individuals and bettering myself as a player. I still feel that they are and I continue to improve everyday with this organization. -
Hockey is life. Hockey is one of the only lives that matters. That’s what my father, Boris Grachev, told me as a young boy when I first laced up my skates. I did not know what he meant, for are other lives also worth living?
But the sound of steel cutting into the ice, the speed, the game....I realized this was the greatest sport in the world. I was born to play it. Born to love it.
I started out my hockey career at the age of 3. I found out quickly that I was quite good. Even as I grew older, I presented a challenge to some of the age groups ahead of me. My father also saw my potential. He believed in me. After years of competing, I was sent to train for a team in Moscow. And it was there that I saw my first professional game, and saw the Moscow Menace. The fire that burned within me burned even brighter. That was where I wanted to play. The professional league, the VHL. This was Victor Grachev’s Dream.
I skated harder and trained harder than ever before. I wanted more. Eventually, I found myself on a team in St. Petersburg. I played there for two years. The first year, I was decent. Ok point production, ok defense. At the end of the first year, however, that was when my father grew very ill. In the off-season, I moved back to my small hometown to help him. I cooked for him and cared for him when he was bedridden. In July of 2018, my father got worse. I’ll always remember his last words to me. They mean so much coming from my dad.
”Victor, I want you to win. Be great. But know that even if you fail, and don’t make it, I am so proud of you. Of the hockey player and man you’ve become.”
When he died, there was a small funeral. But through that entire time, the fire that was in me burned hotter than ever before. I would not be stopped. I would make my dad proud. And that pushed me to have one of the best seasons in St. Petersburg I’ve ever had. And from that came the offer to join the VHLM with the Philadelphia Reapers.
Someday I hope to be the best I can be. I may not score the most goals or assists. I may not be the toughest and fiercest player on the ice. But I will make my dad proud. I will make it to the VHL. When I walked into my first home game in Philadelphia, and walked past the multiple kids wearing hockey jerseys extending their arms out for high fives, I saw myself in those kids. The fire burns within me.
Victor want to play hockey. Victor want to win.
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+ 10 Victor Grachev
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10 minutes ago, Spence King said:Philadelphia Reapers S72 Press Conference #5
HUGE POST-TRADE DEADLINE NEWS
For week ending Jun 21
Answer ALL 6 for 2 TPE!
1) The Reapers have clearly gone ALL IN trading for SUPERSTARS over the weekend with a flurry of trades Including THREE players/Teammates from Ottawa in the Top 10 VHLM Scoring Leaders. Philly brought over 2 players from last years VHLM 1st All Team, First of all the current league leader in PTS Adam Syreck and first player in S72 to crack the 100 PTS Plateau. As well as fetching debatably leagues most pure sniper the only player that has as many goals as our Captain Big Bob Helminen The man, The Myth,The Legend ”Big Chungus” Along arguably the best Defenceman in the M, also S71 VHLM 2nd All Team a lock for Defenceman of the year Ballot The Legendary “Defenz Mann”. Lastly But definitely not least "Rich-Dickbutt Mcfudderdudder" a VHLM Vet going into his last season (RDM and Mann are both in the top 10 for Shots Blocked). With all of these new faces in the LR who has made the biggest impression on you and expand on that ?
2) After the Trade Deadline passed Philadelphia has clearly gone made their intentions clear with picking up 4 players from last years playoff Champions for this season their goal is obvious and that’s nothing other than raising the founders cup. Where you surprised by the and the big moves if so , please explain
and if you were a player in that trade what were your first feelings after hearing the news?
3) With the VHLM being so widely spread across North American. Which team do you least look forward to the road trip and what is it you hate the most about the commute/City/Arena?
4) AGM Spence King made his First official Trade and First Official Waiver signing as Front office in the VHLM. What are your thoughts on Mr.Kings philosophies and any specific personality traits we should know of?
5) We have made it to the 3rd place in the standings, as of late the wins are still coming however we have had 3 Shootouts in the last 10 games. Are you a fan of the Shootout if not why? Who is the best Shootout Specialists on the team in practice?
6)Philadelphia is known for many things most commonly the obvious Philly Cheese Steak (And the Reapers duh) however Philadelphia has produced dozens on Celebrities, Musicians, Comedians and Sports Stars. Which Philadelphia Native do you Admire the most?
1). Of the recent trades, Defenz Mann. An absolute force on the blue line that, as a young gun, I can model my game after and observe him to get better. It's great to learn from someone with such an incredible work ethic that leads the team as the best D-man.
2). I sure was. After I signed with Philly, hearing the blockbuster trades we made was surprising but incredible. It was one of the reasons I signed as a waiver pickup; I wanted to walk into a team determined to win it all.
3). Regarding distance and climate, Mexico City. It's hot, it's incredibly far away, and I'm very out of my element there in that arena. The fans in Mexico City are ruthless, you definitely know you're on the away team there.
4). From my understanding, I think I was that first official waiver signing. I was very impressed with his professionalism and his drive to pursue players to help this team succeed. I am thrilled I signed with the Reapers and do not regret that choice in any way.
5). I don't mind it, I get the arguments for only overtime and including the shootout. It gives a chance for the goalies and players to duel which can be thrilling for the fans. Out of the games I've been a part of, Adam Syreck has been incredible to watch both in practice and during those two shootouts I was on the bench for.
6). I love Kevin Hart. He can really be hilarious and I enjoy seeing his comedy routines and movies! -
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It did not take long for the news to break. Only 5 hours after it was announced that Russian defenseman Victor Grachev was potentially entering the VHLM as a free agent, his signing with the Philadelphia Reapers was made apparent in hockey news.
"Victor want to play hockey. When contacted from club like Philadelphia, you don't say no," Grachev said after stepping off the plane at the Philadelphia International Airport. "It is [my] dream to play hockey in VHL, this is [the] best way to live." Although a Russian native, his hockey career looked destined for the VHLM. He was a prolific defenseman in St. Petersburg, commanding the ice with an average of 28:13 minutes per game. At just 16 years old, he's hopefully stepping into a position on a promising playoff team that could make their run for the cup this year. His 8G, 34A in just 52 games in St. Petersburg was among some of the best in Russia this year. Scouts report that Grachev's key strengths lie in his passing, defensive awareness, and puck handling. Although his weaknesses from the scouting report indicated a need for improvement in his skating and fighting abilities, there doesn't seem to be much concern from the Reapers front office in their quick offer. For the Philly faithful, there's hope that this signing will bring the personnel needed to raise the cup at the end of the year.When asked about the decision to quickly sign instead of waiting for a longer period of time for potential offers from other teams, Grachev merely shrugged. "Philadelpia looks good. They are making playoffs; Victor wants to play in playoffs. They have experience that will help Victor [get] better. Why wait for others when one of [the] best wants Victor? Victor want to play hockey." Armed with a bag of hockey gear and a small backpack, Grachev walked out of the terminal to await his ride, eager to play.
The sudden signing and determination from Grachev to play can only mean great things for Philadelphia. Upon asking how he would feel meeting players like Bob Helminen or Spencer Elsby, Grachev could only smile. "Victor want to play hockey and learn from great players. Players like them [can] really help young players new to team," he indicated before flagging down a BMW in the pickup lane. Russian pleasantries were discussed before Grachev entered the vehicle and drove off.Either way, it seems like the Philadelphia Reapers netted themselves some great help on the blue line with signing Victor Grachev. Stepping out of a 4-3-0 run of games over the past few weeks, Grachev could be that extra push for the Reapers to net some more crucial wins at the tail end of the regular season to secure a playoff spot. Will they make a deep playoff run with the new Russian defenseman? Grachev all but guaranteed that the Reapers were making the playoffs when grabbing his bags. Well, at least Victor will get to play hockey. That seems to be the most important thing on his mind.
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5 hours ago, Spence King said:
Good day and Welcome to the VHL ! Hi @KaleebtheMighty My name is Spencer Elsby, aka Spence King AGM of the Historic Philadelphia Reapers Hockey Organization , Our General Manager @DMaximus are offering you a contract.
We have a very strong core built here of great characters and would love to have you as a member of the Philly Family and Reaper Nation. The fans in Philly are by far the loudest and most dedicated and the league knows it. I can vouch on Dmax's behalf that you will not find anymore patient and amazing guide as a mentor when getting used to the VHL and making sure you wont miss out on any opportunities.
Our Goal as managers in the minors is to help develop and make this the most engaging fun experience possible, and that a guarantee in the Philly family! Our Philosophy is to ensure that our players are getting the absolute best experience possible in the VHLM, we understand the importance of one on one interactions and will be there for you anytime and the Locker Room is also full of amazing people that are more than happy to help you develop and understand ,MOST OF ALL feel comfortable and part of the Philly family , #OnceAReaperAlwaysAReaper. This season we have a very strong roster with some great veterans putting us as a legitimate contender this season for a playoff push.
Now lets get to business
This is a real unique opportunity as Philadelphia have the skill to make a run for the Cup this season however unlike the only 3 other powerhouse teams all have a STRONG D core and these are minutes that we can offer you right away that those teams just cant. We can offer you Top line minutes and the opportunity to play alongside a future Hall of Famer as your Mentor and D Partner. We also want you playing PP and PK minutes right away. We recognize hard work and reward it, effort is HUGE to us and it never goes unrecognized. We would be honored to sign you and get your Name Plate printed and get you on the Ice with some legends asap . We see a lot of bright things in your future and can only hope to be a part of your journey/story to Stardom in the VHL.
“Quote” This message with the hashtag #FearTheReaper, or “Accept” and we will have a contract sent to your inbox and get you in the LR right and you can ask all your question about more info about how to be the best in the league, and join our team locker room! Enjoy your stay!
-Spence King | Philadelphia Reapers
Accept #FearTheReaper
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Player Information
Username: KaleebtheMighty
Player Name: Victor Grachev
Recruited From: Reddit
Age: 16
Position: D
Height: 75 in.
Weight: 211 lbs.
Birthplace: Russia
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1). I’m excited! It will be great to be a part of a new team and solidify the franchise going forward in the next few seasons.
2). Granted I’ll be down in the VHLM, but I think acquiring draft capital or more prospects would be a great focus to build us up.
3). To develop as functionally as I can to ensure Grachev comes in full force to the VHL.
4). Regarding the VHL draft, I felt like we did very well with who was available and who we picked. It may not show this season, but each player selected should develop nicely and really help our team out.
5). I like to push the puck way out far to my right and keep it on the toe of my stick. I’ll look for the goalie to commit to a move and go with either a Kucherov, a quick pull back short side, or fire it quick five hole if I freeze him.
6). Keep doing you, your motivation has been great!
7). London. Both expansion teams, I could see something budding from that soon.
8).
9). I usually go for tomato smoothie if anything.
10). Chicago Blackhawks!