CowboyinAmerica

The old logos on the alternates is a really nice touch. Love these.

S94 is about to begin! With that being said- I took it upon myself to give every team an updated set of fresh jerseys to be the “unofficial” designs for this season.
(note: I’ll be posting the NA jerseys next week in a separate article.)
 
Each team has 3 jerseys (1 Home, 1 Away, 1 Alternate) with the exception of the back-to-back Victory Cup winning team, the Malmo Nighthawks, who have an additional Alternate jersey.
There are also a handful of teams that used older logos in the past, and I wanted to incorporate them into their Alternate jerseys. Those teams will have “retro” alternate jerseys for this season- but the rest of the league will use their current logos for their alternates.
 
With that small introduction out of the way- let’s finally unveil the S94 “Unofficial” VHL Jerseys for the EU Conference!


HC Davos Dynamo
Home

Away

“Retro” Alternate


 
Helsinki Titans
Home

Away

“Retro” Alternate

 
 
London United
Home

Away

Alternate


 
Malmo Nighthawks
Home

Away

Alternate 1

Alternate 2 (Blackout)

 
Moscow Menace
Home

Away

Alternate


 
Riga Reign
Home

Away

“Retro” Alternate


 
Prague Phantoms
Home

Away

Alternate



Warsaw Predators
Home

Away

Alternate



 
Hope you all enjoy your new threads and best of luck to everyone this season!
-🔥⚡️

Honored to once again lead the team! It's a weight off my shoulders not having two A's too after last season. Great A's we have now!
 

congrats to our captains! here's to an awesome season, go DAVID! 

S94 HC DAVOS DYNAMO CAPTAINS
The rebuild is coming to an end this season, leading the way is...
 
Captain - David Jokinen @Ahma!
Now in his 8th season with the team, and 7th as captain, Jokinen embodies everything a captain should be and leads by example on and off of the ice! Jokinen will look to inspire the next generation of Davos players and continue to build off their 100+ point season that they had in S93!
 
Alternate Captain - Grimgor Ironhide @FrostBeard!
Acquired in a blockbuster trade with Moscow, Ironhide has been a vocal member in the locker room and provides a great veteran presence. On the Ice Ironhide will be looking to set some new career highs and maybe pick up an award!
 
Alternate Captain - Antonia Bucatini @CowboyinAmerica!
The S93 1st overall pick will be making their long awaited VHL debut this season! Bucatini will be looking to build off their strong VHLE campaign and just maybe be crowned the VHL's top rookie come the end of the season!

🇪🇺
 
Prague -- Every year, the World Junior Hockey Championship standings shift up and down. Sometimes, it's the USA roster that's stacked. Other times (perhaps oftentimes), it's Canada. But it's very rare that continental Europe comes out particularly strong. That's why it's special that this year, Europe may have one it's strongest WJHC rosters ever - and are prepared to potentially take the entire crown.
 
Team Europe finished the round robin part of the tournament with the best record among the five teams, losing their first game but winning the next seven to finish with 21 total points. That lined them up against Team Asia in the semifinals, and following a 5-2 win, Europe is now set to face perennial powerhouses Canada in the finals.
 
Europe has been led by a particularly strong front line, with Annie Oaks tying for the tournament lead with 8 goals, and Antonia Bucatini and Maverick Goncalves adding in 11 assists a piece. But it may be the goalie play that truly propelled this team to victory, with the two-headed goalie monster of Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen and David Slezak putting in two of the three highest save percentages in the competition.
 
"It's really been a team effort, we've been strong up and down the roster," Bucatini said after the semifinals win. "I know a lot of the press might go to the flashy forwards, but without the strong back line and goaltending, we'd be nowhere. I don't think there are many holes on this roster."
 
But will that be enough to beat Team Canada in the finals? Although they received an OT scare from Team World in their own semifinal matchup, Canada also boasts a talented netminder in Harold Benson and a strong first line led by Nathan Ecker (16 points in round robin play) and Wayne Gretzky (15 points).
 
Even going against The Great One though, Europe feels confident it can be great enough on its own. "We've got the talent for sure, we've just got to execute," Bucatini added. "It's going to be a great game though, and a great showcase for the WJHC as a whole. I'm excited to get this done for Team Europe!"

'tis correct, I'm he/him but Bucatini is she/her.
 
Thanks for the props! I'm hoping that I'll be able to come through, really just want to play up to the standard of Grimgor and Sadie and not be the weak link 😅

1. What are you most looking forward to in S94?
Just playing at the VHL level for the first time, honestly. The M and the E are fun for getting started, but I'm jazzed to really get into the meat of my VHL career.
 
2. Nearly a week out from the draft, what are your thoughts on the players we selected? 
Couldn't be happier with the way the draft turned out. Hardy is going to be a future star, mark my words, and I think both Stefano and Tsunami were absolute steals where they were drafted - both could have been Top 10 picks and had it be justified.
 
3. Adding onto this, how do you feel about the Davos roster and prospects going forward into this season?
This season may be the final year of a rebuild, albeit one with a step forward. But going into the future, I think this has the bones to be a multi-year true contender in the making.
 
4. What is one thing you would do if you were VHL commissioner for a day?
For one day? Well, I'm getting access to the donation account and making sure some of the funds are, ahem, re-allocated. What, you didn't say it had to be ethical.
 
5. What are your goals for your player this season? 
There's a lot of Rookie of the Year hype starting to build, but honestly that's not a goal for me. I want Grimgor and Sadie to come out strong - and if they're getting their numbers, I think I'm going to be just fine.
 
7. Where was the last place you traveled to?
Just got back from a wedding in Portland, Oregon last night! I do like the Pacific Northwest and the greenery and the people. But the cost of living and being so far away from family is a no go.
 

I've updated the VHL single-season records spreadsheets for S93, woo! No one set any records in S93, boo... But then we generally need some freakshow seasons for that to happen. The last big contributors to single-season records was the super-polarised league of the 50s, the madness that was S62, and the peak meta era of S80-S82. Incidentally, S82 is the date of the last record being set, creed's outrageous 460 blocked shots for a D.C. team being peppered by 99 scoring robots.
 
But we've had some additions to the top 25 lists in S93:
 
Womp Womp Womp Womp Womp Jr's @AdamEss 292 PIM are the joint ninth-most in a single VHL season, and the highest total since S66. Maybe not the most desirable record but one that feels like it should fall at some point as is less dependent on league parity of scoring levels. I don't really know why Da'Brickashaw O'Neal has held a stranglehold on this since S13 and why 300 PIM seems to be such a difficult mark to reach.
  Lower on the same list, Fradin McGryer @Fradin99 and Alfred Champagne @Anthique join Jacob Smith in 22nd place with 266 PIM, a worthy effort from those two.
  The Mediocre One @RElblein grabs 20th place in shots blocked with 262, nearly 200 less than the aforementioned creed, and not hugely surprising given the train wreck that was LA last season. LA ended with the joint-third most losses ever with 67 and eighth-least points with 14.
  And finally, for a more impressive one, Lachlan Summers' @kirbithan MVP season featured a .935 save percentage. Even one season earlier, this would have been less noticeable, but cracking the top 25 all time even after goalies stats were nuked by design is a notable achievement for the future Hall of Famer.

well I don't get to claim that one anyway so... no  

In cooperation with Tribal Gaming, the VHL Virtual Bookie is providing a chance for all VHLers to win some favorable wagers, by wagering on the predictions for the season 94 awards.  This is completely separate from the prediction on the portal and the only one getting TPE from this media spot is the Virtual Bookie, so you still need to place your predictions in order for a chance for TPE.  But, this is a great opportunity to pick up some virtual riches from a very generous VHL Virtual Bookie.  A word of advice though; the Virtual Bookie does not have much success with actual predictions on the portal, so if you want to win some TPE on the prediction portal, consider choosing the opposite than what the Virtual Bookie has picked out for you to wager on.  There is no limit to your wagers, just reply and all wagers will be processed.  Remember, the minimum wager is 100.  Just think, you could be the Virtual MoneyMaker!!  Good luck.
 
 
Continental Cup - VHL Cup Winner
 
Moscow Menace - (+24000) Wager 100 to win 24000.  Moscow is a consistent playoff threat and is due to come out on top.  With a fierce lineup this season, GM @Spartan is looking to come out on top and give the Menace the trophy.
 
Seattle Bears - (+33000) Wager 100 to win 33000.  The season 93 Continental Cup Champion is destined to repeat by some, but others have put Seattle behind Moscow, but still this could be a valuable wager considering Seattle’s depth and the interesting trades by GM @Banackock.
 
Vancouver Wolves - (+48000) Wager 100 to win 48000.  GM @Frank, has placed Vancouver in serious contention for the Continental Cup and with these odds, it could be the pick of the league.  Adding The Frenchman, @OrbitingDeath , to the offense, and Mark Calaway @Beketov to the defense are likely to be the catalysts to set the Wolves up for a successful season.  Both Frenchman and Calaway are likely to be taking home other awards as well.  Add Logan Ninefingers @Scurvy, and Riley Martin @Smarch in the mix and it bolsters the award opportunity.
 
 
Victory Cup - The Best Regular Season Record
 
This trophy has the oddsmakers in a whirlwind as there are so many teams who could take this trophy home but in the end it was a look at the schedule and the conference that locked in the odds for the makers.
 
London United (+18000) wager 100 to win 18000.  With Leonard Triller, @Triller, and Wann Kerr, @VattghernCZ, scoring goals and Merome Dilson, @MexicanCow123, in goal, London is likely to have many winning streaks, putting them as the favorite.
 
Seattle Bears (+25000) wager 100 to win 25000.  Face it, Seattle is stacked again this season.  Seattle’s schedule is a little tougher than London’s which gave them the added payout.  If Daryl Dixon, @Ricer13 and Severus Targaryen, @Banackock mentor newly acquired Eric White Jr, @Mysterious_Fish, Seattle may be a lock for this trophy.
 
Moscow Menace (+48000) wager 100 to win 48000.  Normally Moscow has more success as the underdog, but in season 94, Moscow finds a roster full of studs able to compete.  Jarmo Ruutu @jRuutu, and Axle Gunner, @Steve, are going to be leading Moscow’s offense.  Be on the lookout for George Richmond, @badcolethetitan, as he’s in his second season in the VHL, and is likely to put up trophy winning numbers.
 
 
Devon Marlow-Marta Trophy - North American Conference Champion
 
Seattle Bears - (+12000) wager 100 to win 12000.  Seattle is looking good this season.  The oddsmakers aren’t willing to risk too much.
 
Vancouver Wolves - (+22000) wager 100 to win 22000.  There’s a whole lot of talent on this team to think they don’t have a good chance of leading the conference.
 
Toronto Legion - (+36000) wager 100 to win 36000.  The oddsmakers are putting Toronto on the list given the unbelievable forwards in GM @Moon lineup.
 
 
 
Terence Fong Trophy - European Conference Champion
 
London United - (+17000) wager 100 to win 17000.  Sticking with the Victory Cup odds, it appears that London is a shoe in for the Terence Fong Trophy and the oddsmakers aren’t willing to offer higher odds.
 
Moscow Menace - (+21000) wager 100 to win 21000.  This is a good bet if London starts out slow, because Moscow is going to be a consistent threat.
 
Warsaw Predators - (+59000) wager 100 to win 59000.  Here’s a long shot and a good bet for those who like to take risks.  The oddsmakers are giving Warsaw a shot because of forwards like Maxim Anisimov, @McLovin, and Thor Reingaard, @N0HBDY, but most of all because of goalie Lachlan Summers, @kirbithan.
 
 
 
Scotty Campbell Trophy - Most Valuable Player during regular season
 
Leonard Triller @Triller - (+33000) wager 100 to win 33000.  Leonard Triller has been consistent in the past 3 seasons and its not likely for this to change.  With a high wager, the bettor is sure to get a large payout.
 
Severus Targaryen @Banackock - (+45000) wager 100 to win 45000.  Severus Targaryen is another high scorer and contributor to his team.  The oddsmakers are giving bettors a teaser with this wager.
 
Riley Martin @Smarch - (+90000) wager 100 to win 90000.  This may be too soon to put Riley Martin under this much pressure, but with the recent addition of The Frenchman and Mark Calaway, Martin is sure to reach an unprecedented level and therefore the oddsmakers were willing to risk the high payout.
 
 
 
Brett Slobodzian Trophy - Most Outstanding Player voted for by the players
 
Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ - (+25000) wager 100 to win 25000.  Coming off a career season 93, it is likely that season 94 will be even better for Kerr.
 
The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath - (+37000) wager 100 to win 37000.  Going to Vancouver with such a high pedigree, The Frenchman is looking to lead the Wolves to a successful season.
 
Axle Gunner @Steve - (+62000) wager 100 to win 62000.  This is the Brett Slobodzian long shot, although the odds are more favorable than Logan Ninefingers, its still reaching and is a good bet for the risk takers.
 
 
 
Daisuke Kanou Trophy - Most Valuable Player in the Playoffs
 
Olober Syko @Spartan - (+45000) wager 100 to win 45000.  There’s a good possibility for Moscow to win the championship and in doing so they will need a stellar performance from the all-star Olober Syko.  Just have to keep Spartan out of traffic, not because of his driving, but other idiot drivers!
 
Fuukka Rask @Jubis - (+58000) wager 100 to win 58000.  The oddsmakers are keen on goalies winning this trophy in the playoffs, and nothing has changed with this pick.   If Seattle wins it all, it will be Rask’s major contribution.
 
Liv Slater @Subject056 (+82000) wager 100 to win 82000.  Here’s another long shot that could lure only the riskier bettors, but given Slater’s outstanding history in the playoffs, it could make someone very rich.
 
 
 
Mike Szatkowski Trophy - Points leader in regular season
 
Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ - (+12000) wager 100 to win 12000.  In season 93, Kerr crushed the points and there is nothing the oddsmakers see that will change this.  The only reason the odds are what they are is because the new pool of challengers could fool us all.
 
Leonard Triller @Triller - (+42000) wager 100 to win 42000.  The oddsmakers see this as a value bet considering if Wann Kerr isn’t putting up the points as in season 93, then Leonard Triller will be, not to mention the combination of the two just adds to this favorable bet.
 
The Frenchman @OrbitingDeath - (+49000) wager 100 to win 49000.  This may seem like a long shot to some, but the oddsmakers weren’t willing to offer more due to The Frenchman’s exceptional talent and going to a new team with a scoring punch, it makes this bet more attractive.  And because The Frenchman spends little time in the penalty box, its a given he’ll spend more time scoring.
 
**Bonus Wager Offer** Tribal Gaming has authorized a bonus wager offer.  Wager on this if you believe there will be a tie for points leader.  It doesn’t matter who the players are.
 
Two way tie - (+240000) wager 100 to win 240000.  If you have 100 to spare, this is a no brainer bet.
 
Three way tie - (+800000) wager 100 to win 800000.  Now this wager is only for those who can afford losing.
 
 
 
Kevin Brooks Trophy - Goals Leader at the end of the season
 
Owen Lazaro @traphag - (+48000) wager 100 to win 48000.  The oddsmakers are throwing a bone to the bettors with Owen Lazaro.  When you look at Lazaro’s goal scoring history and you add the new teammates, there is only one outcome.  Owen Lazaro’s goals go off the chart!
 
Wann Kerr @VattghernCZ - (+55000) wager 100 to win 55000.  Here’s another opportunity to cash in.  There is no doubt Wann Kerr will put up some numbers to repeat.  The oddsmakers see Kerr as a dish master this season and making fewer goals in exchange for more assists.  This future hall of famer is going to make people rich.
 
Mac Atlas @v.2 - (+87000) wager 100 to win 87000.  This long shot is alluring to the risk takers and could be a good pay out.  The oddsmakers like Atlas’ shots on goal numbers and is anticipating that Mac Atlas could put the puck in the net a lot more this season.
 
 
 
Alexander Beketov Trophy - Assist Leader at the end of the regular season
 
David Jokinen @Ahma - (+42000) wager 100 to win 42000.  David Jokinen has been a true team player his entire career, and continues to provide laser passes to goal scorers, thus the oddsmakers have determined Jokinen to be the favorite for this trophy now that John Jameson @frank retired.
 
Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer - (+62000) wager 100 to win 62000.  Bobby Bob is another team player who prefers to let others score and there’s some scoring talent on Toronto that make this wager ripe for easy winnings.
 
Logan Ninefingers @Scurvy - (+91000) wager 100 to win 91000.  Only the most knowledgeable bettors will wager on this long shot, and the oddsmakers know that.  They are willing to put up the lucrative odds due to the additions of serious goal scorers to Ninefingers line, which gives Logan the opportunity to show off his team play.  If you’re looking to win some TPE, this is a good pick in the predictions also.
 
 
 
Sterling Labatte Trophy - Top Overall Defenseman in the VHL
 
Skor McFleury @Alex - (+58000) wager 100 to win 58000.  Skor McFleury has been eyeing this trophy for a couple seasons, and now that he’s on a new team, there’s a good chance for him to succeed.  Already famous for his assists, McFleury likes to put his body at risk and block shots.  The oddsmakers are enticing bettors with such a high payout for this pick.
 
Mark Calaway @Beketov - (+61000) wager 100 to win 61000.  The oddsmakers aren’t willing to bump the odds much higher than McFleury’s in order to attract more bettors to Mark Calaway.  Calaway is also on a new team and is a complete player.  Given the strengths of Mark Calaway, its obvious that this could be a promising bet.  This is another prediction pick that could give you TPE.
 
David Jokinen @Ahma - (+65000) wager 100 to win 65000.  Jokinen, like Calaway and McFleury, is a top defenseman and the oddsmakers are keeping things real without offering a long shot in this category.  There is just too much talent in Jokinen that gives some allure to this bet for some easy winnings.  The oddsmakers really like David Jokinen and with only two seasons remaining, they hope this future hall of famer breaks records.
 
 
 
Alexander Valiq Trophy - Top Offensive Defenseman
 
Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer - (+50000) wager 100 to win 50000.  The oddsmakers like this pick because Bobby Bob puts up impressive numbers offensively and is a major contributor to the team.  Given a solid season 93 performance, there’s a good chance Bobby Bob jumps all over the scoring in season 94.
 
Skor McFleury @Alex - (+56000) wager 100 to win 56000.  Skor McFleury has yet to let up and the oddsmakers would be remiss in putting McFleury in the running.  With a stacked list of all stars, this pick, like Bobby Bob, can only guarantee a good opportunity to score TPE as well.
 
Liv Slater @Subject056 - (+61000) wager 100 to win 61000.  This pick is another hot defenseman, and given the added strength to the Wolves lineup, the oddsmakers could have easily listed Slater as the favorite.  Given the three choices to win some bets, any of the three could fatten the wallet.  As far as TPE goes, there are still several more potential defenders who could win the award.
 
 
 
Jake Wylde Trophy - Top Defensive Defenseman
 
David Jokinen @Ahma - (+32000) wager 100 to win 32000.  This wager is a guaranteed win.  David Jokinen has every bit of talent to hold onto this trophy and the only thing preventing him from getting this is if another defender breaks out with a record season.
 
Told Yvel @Trazan - (+62000) wager 100 to win 62000.  Told Yvel is coming off a decent season and the oddsmakers have some inside knowledge that this is a break out season for Yvel.  They have made the wager attractive enough to bring in plenty of action and are not afraid of saying “I told you so” when Yvel wins the trophy.
 
Tommy Sleeves @dasboot - (+87000) wager 100 to win 87000.  If there is a long shot that makes the oddsmakers worry about multiple payouts this is the one.  Tommy Sleeves is a monster and has spent the past crushing opponents.  This season could be the “record” season to bump Jokinen right out of the running.  You risky bettors, dont be afraid to go big with this bet.
 
 
 
Aidan Shaw Trophy - Top Goalie in the VHL
 
Olober Syko @Spartan - (+48000) wager 100 to win 48000.  In order for Moscow to win it all, which they most likely will, Olober Syko is going to have a hall of famer season.  This goalie is talented, competitive, and like his Moscow GM, very crafty.  The oddsmakers debated over pushing the odds a little lower to be safer, but in the end decided to give bettors a huge opportunity to load up.
 
Fuukka Rask @Jubis - (+60000) wager 100 to win 60000.  Fuukka Rask is another legend in the VHL.  This wager is a clear enticement for bettors to pick up some easy winnings.  Rask has had a stellar career and there is nothing stopping him from another trophy.
 
Dalkr Vidalssen @KaleebtheMighty - (+95000) wager 100 to win 95000.  The numbers are not wrong here.  The oddsmakers see this goalie as a long shot and have given the riskier bettors an opportunity to cash in.  Vidalssen is now surrounded by an incredible defense and top goal scorers; this is sure to give him a boost to go above and beyond for the team.  Take advantage of the oddsmakers’ generousity on this wager.
 
 
 
Greg Clegane Trophy - Lowest Goals Against Average in the VHL
 
Merome Dilson @MexicanCow123 - (+52000) wager 100 to win 52000.  The new VHL Simon T adjustments are not having a big impact on Dilson, and this goalie is capable of keeping the puck out of the net.  Some might not like the odds on this wager, but there’s a reason for such a low number, its the confidence the oddsmakers have in the selection.
 
Lachlan Summers @kirbithan - (+55000) wager 100 to win 55000.  You dont get odds like this by not being a star goalie, and there is no doubt that Summers is a star.  The oddsmakers aren’t willing to consider what surrounds Summers as a factor in the odds, because time and time again, Summers has proven he can handle his own.
 
Olober Syko @Spartan - (+67000) wager 100 to win 67000.  This is another big teaser for the big bettors.  Olober Syko is going into the season in peak shape and will keep the puck out of the net.  The only thing keeping Syko from having lower odds is that opponents just don’t bother shooting at him much because he saves the puck with ease.  This teaser bet is also a good pick in the prediction for TPE.
 
 
 
Christian Stolzshweiger Trophy - Top Rookie in the VHL
 
Antonia Bucatini @CowboyinAmerica - (+45000) wager 100 to win 45000.  This trophy is so unpredictable which increases the odds, but Bucatini has prepared for this and is the favorite by many.  Consider this wager an easy bump in your wallet and don’t be afraid to increase your wager.  In addition, this is likely the favorite for the TPE in predictions.
 
Wayne Gretzky @MubbleFubbles - (+68000) wager 100 to win 68000.  If there is a good pick to challenge Bucatini for this trophy, its Gretzky.  Coming out of the VHLE with awards, there is no doubt Gretzky is in the running.  If his new teammates take him in and show him the way, Gretzky could be the one to take the trophy from Bucatini.  The oddsmakers have bumped up the odds on Gretzky to even the score.
 
Lucy Leitner @LucyXpher - (+84000) wager 100 to win 84000.  The oddsmakers looked to the VHLM and the VHLE to come up with this selection.  There is promise in this rookie and the oddsmakers see a high value wager for Leitner to surprise Wayne Gretzky and Antonia Bucatini to win this award.  For those who aren’t afraid of being risky, wager more than the minimum.  It only benefits the winners.
 
**Bonus Wager Offer - Once again Tribal Gaming has thrown out a teaser for the more experienced bettors, and here it is.  Only the riskiest will take this challenge.
 
Maverick Goncalves @leandrofg - (+99000) wager 100 to win 99000.  This is a true long shot who can overcome the odds and make the riskiest bettors richer.  Goncalves has nothing to prove and is expected to come into the league to learn, but because he has nothing to prove, it only means he is going to show the world their is a reason he is one of the best.  If you want to become rich, wager more than the minimum on this one.
 
 
 
Scott Boulet Trophy - Top Two-Way Forward in the VHL
 
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr - (+62000) wager 100 to win 62000.  The oddsmakers put Callahan the favorite for this award because he’s not afraid to get physical.  Callahan, like his namesake, looks opponents straight in the eyes and challenges them to out muscle him.  If you’re looking for some easy winnings, go big on this bet.
 
Owen Lazaro @traphag - (+69000) wager 100 to win 69000.  Here is another tough guy who can contribute to his team.  The oddsmakers have taken into account Lazaro’s new teammates and factor in that Lazaro is going to have a record breaking season.  Sit back and watch this monster stack up the numbers.
 
Logan Ninefingers @Scurvy - (+84000) wager 100 to win 84000.  Its not because I’m Ninefingers IRL friend, but yeah, that’s probably the reason the oddsmakers have bumped him into this category.  Ninefingers has a history of battling and being a blue collar hockey player.  And with Rip Wheeler joining his team, Ninefingers won’t be distracted on getting the opportunity to smash his face.  This is a high value wager.
 
 
 
David Knight Trophy - Top General Manager
 
London United @jacobcarson877 - (+75000) wagerj 100 to win 75000.  The oddsmakers are struggling with this trophy, therefore have raised the stakes to promote action.  Nevertheless this GM is steady and puts lineups in that compete day in/day out.  Given the high odds, this is an encouraging wager if you want to become rich.
 
Vancouver Wolves @Frank - (+81000) wager 100 to win 81000.  The offseason moves by Frank have given the oddsmakers some awe and thus the placement into the running.  Perhaps the last minute acquisition of Rip Wheeler could have adjusted the odds one way or another, nevertheless a high bet on this one will put your kids through college.
 
Moscow Menace @Spartan - (+83000) wager 100 to win 83000.  A number of GM’s could be selected in all three of these selections, but it was the remarkable trades giving Moscow the first two picks of the season 94 entry draft that gave Spartan the edge.  Given the amount to win, this is another easy pick for making you rich.
 
 
 
Dustin Funk Trophy - Most Improved Player
 
Behrens Minion @UnknownMinion - (+55000) wager 100 to win 55000.  The oddsmakers are taking a chance with this selection because they like what Minion has done as a rookie.  Minion is a hitter and is bound to increase scoring stats to go with the aggressiveness.  Look for Behrens Minion to triple his stats across the board in season 94.
 
Catia Goncalves @cLoWn - (+67000) wager 100 to win 67000.  This could be the spoiler for the Dustin Funk Trophy.  Goncalves is a hitter like Minion, and has improved every season.  The oddsmakers see this as a risky bet.
 
Adi Dassler @BOOM - (+85000) wager 100 to win 85000.  The oddsmakers are always thrown off with Boom’s signature graphic, and have decided to give Adi Dassler some credit where credit is due.  Dassler may not be the physical player like Minion and Goncalves, but Dassler can put up points.  Like Minion, the oddsmakers expect Dassler to triple the points in season 94.
 
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maybe I'm wrong but I've seen so many articles regarding Antonia Bucatini as a "He" but I'm pretty sure it's a female player guess you'd have to ask @CowboyinAmericato be absolutely certain.

Bucatini Prepares for First VHL Season
 
Davos, Switzerland -- Antonia Bucatini has hopped around during her professional hockey career. First, it was being drafted to the VHLM’s Halifax 21st. Then, midseason, she switched countries from Canada to the U.S. after she was traded to the Houston Bulls. The next year, she went back to Europe once more, landing in Scandinavia with the eventual champion Oslo Storm of the VHLE. Three countries, two continents, two seasons.
 
Coming into this year, Bucatini is moving once again. But this time, it’s different: This is likely to be her permanent home. As befitting the number one pick of the S93 Draft, Bucatini is set to make her debut for HC Davos Dynamo this season, and she’s beginning to settle into her Switzerland home.
 
“It’s nice, I like it here,” Bucatini told the Swiss press following a training camp practice. “It’s not my first time in Switzerland, you know, I’d visited before. But house hunting, meeting the neighbors, settling into a routine with practice and everything else – it’s a lot different feeling this time.”
 
Plus, there’s the weight of expectations. Davos is still emerging out of a rebuild, one that saw an additional three rookies join the prospect pool this past draft. But even so, there remain high expectations for Bucatini this upcoming season. She figures to slot into the team’s first line alongside touted veterans Grimgor Ironhide and Sadie St. Louis, both of whom have extensive VHL – and winning – experience.
 
Bucatini knows she will be counted on to hold her own from the drop of the first puck. But rather than shying away from the challenge, she says she actively embraces what’s coming ahead.
 
“I know it’s not easy to be a rookie. But even so, I think I have an opportunity to do something special here,” she added. “We have some winners here – hell, that even includes me coming up from Oslo, I suppose. Maybe we’ll be able to shock a few people this season.”
 
Could that shock include a Rookie of the Year run? It’s possible, given how much practice Bucatini has undertaken coming into the season. Still, it’s not something that she says is a priority.
 
“I told the coaching staff that I’m more focused on Grimgor and Sadie’s stats than my own, and I truly meant it,” she explained. “If they’re happy, I’m happy. I really think that’s how we’re going to grow not only this season, but into the future.”
 
Time will tell how well those proclamations play out. But for now, Bucatini is still adjusting. There’s a preseason ahead, followed by the first games against tougher competition than she has ever faced before. For better or worse, the attention will certainly be on the first player to be drafted first in all three of the VHLM, VHLE, and VHL.
 
“Sure, there are expectations, but I’m not afraid of that,” Bucatini said with a grin. “You’ve seen what I do with expectations before. And if I’m going to be great – and trust me, that’s the plan – it means people have to see greatness in you. Let’s see how well that plays out.”

With the VHLM Draft in the books, I thought it would be interesting to do a bit of a data examination into winners of the VHL's Scotty Campbell Trophy, awarded to the player deemed the most valuable player during the regular season, with a cross reference of their draft position. I've never done a media spot like this so I'm not exactly sure how to count it, and I only went back as far as the launch of the VHLE, just to have a "modern era" time frame.
 
Season Player VHL Draft Position VHLE Draft Position VHLM Draft Position 80 Duncan Idaho 3rd n/a 3rd 80 Taro Tsujimoto 9th n/a 4th 81 Justin Lose 26th n/a 18th 82 Taro Tsujimoto 9th n/a 4th 83 Saku Kotkakoivu 3rd 2nd 5th 84 Duncan Idaho 3rd n/a 3rd 84 Nico Pearce 10th  64th 3rd 85 Jerome Reinhart 3rd n/a 57th 86 Daniel Janser 8th 9th 36th 86 Dusty Wilson 44th 29th 64th 87 Sirdsvaldis Miglaskems 2nd 8th n/a 88 Xavier Booberry 1st  23rd 6th  89 John Jameson 2nd 1st n/a 90 Todd Cooke 27th  20th  10th  91 Scotty Sundin 1st  n/a 1st  92 Merome Dilson 10th  5th  6th   
 
As far as analyzing the data, at a cursory look it would appear that the VHL's MVP can come from anywhere in the draft, with an expected bias toward first round selections. To add a bit of further detail, here are the average draft spots of those MVPs:
 
 
Average (VHL) Average (VHLE) Average (VHLM) 10 17.8 15.7  
 
Can we extrapolate anything from this? Well, not much, thanks to a small sample size and a few obvious outliers (looking at you, Dustin Wilson and Nico Pearce). Perhaps the most interesting thing here is that there are two 1st overall VHL selections who went on to win the Campbell - Scotty Sundin and Xavier Booberry - and twice as many 3rd overall selections who won the Trophy - Jerome Reinhart, Duncan Idaho twice, and Saku Kotkakoivu. 
 

 
 
Maybe the biggest takeaway I got from looking at this data is that VHLE draft position is an absolute wildcard. A number of these future MVPs either opted out of going to the VHLE altogether, or were so obviously going to bypass the VHLE due to their development that VHLE General Managers didn't bother to take them until considerably later as a shot in the dark pick, see Nico Pearce at 64th overall and Xavier Booberry at 23rd overall. 
 
When I sat down to write this week's article, I didn't intend on doing a data analysis, so apologies to anyone who feels deprived of my normal weekly storytelling exercises; I fully anticipate returning to the regularly-scheduled tale-spinning next week. Either way, I hope someone other than myself found this interesting.
 

Ellis Woolfenden has accepted HC Davos's offer.

RAAAAAHHHH TEAM EUROPE WILL CLEAR!!!!
FORWARDS:
MAVERICK GONCALVES - @leandrofg
ANTONIA BUCATINI - @CowboyinAmerica
ANNIE OAKS - @Noodle Enjoyer
VANUZA KOLESINSKA - @chikn
PIERRE MARC BOUCHARD - @Gaikoku-hito
NICO BELIQUE - @Syzygy
DAN JR. - @Danzo
THE PHANTOM OF THE VHL (AND THE WJC NOW) - @Hogan
STEVE FRENCH - @Seabass
 
DEFENCE:
SCRUNGLE BUNGLE - @Novanod
ALEXANDR NOVOTNY - @Patrik Tallinder
MASA AKIMOTO - @Hokikeijot
PHIL TAYLOR - @Legacy
 
GOALTENDING:
DAVID SLEZAK - @ShawnGlade
ALEKSANTERI KASKINIEMI-KEKKONEN - @Snussu
 
Please join the WJC discord HERE and ping me so we can claim moral superiority over our competitors 

Vancouver Delays Draft & Drama


 
Heading into the S94 Draft Vancouver Wolves had a very good idea of who they wanted to draft at the 4th and 5th overall selections in the draft but management made one mistake heading into the draft when it became obvious that one of the players that the team was interested in drafting was most likely not going to be available. Call it false hope or dumb hope; as the management never confirmed with each other what they would do if said player wasn`t available.


 
Add in the fact that AGM (me) couldn`t be available at the start of the draft on his computer due to a family engagement (stupid Saturday school for the kids) and a bit of issues with discord on his phone deciding it wanted to do an update while trying to communicate during the draft proceedings. Luckily, picks came fast and furious so most didn`t really notice the 10min or more delay for what it was. GM & AGM trying to communicate with each other but needing to wait for a discord update.


 
While we had discussed moving down in the draft from this spot, I am not sure that it really was on the table but we had two players as @Frank mention in his off-season review that we were considering but never confirmed it with each other what we were going to do. Panic did set in as I watch draft stream and the slow-moving bar of a download of a update but I was able to get a hold of frank just in time to have a say in who we selected.


 
So that is why it took 10mins or more for Vancouver Wolves to make their second selection of draft day and a huge respect for Frank for waiting for this dumbass to complete his discord update and have a say in the selection. Really, he could have just made the selection without my input as I don`t think we could have gone wrong either way either selecting @mmrs617 Matteo Stefano or as we did Soju. Wish Matteo Stefano @mmrs617 all the best in Davos and not surprised @Alex seen the same potential as we did.

(graphic pending again 💀)
VSN Presents: S93 World Junior Championship Preview!
 

 
Hello everybody, and welcome to yet another season of VSN WJC coverage! As our readers know, the WJC is a highly anticipated tournament within the VHL, where prospects from all across the VHLM & E demonstrate their skills and make a significant impact both on the ice and in their draft stock! With the tournament set to start in just a few days, and the team’s all but locked in at this point, we at VSN figure it’s a better time than ever to take a look at how the WJC’s rosters might shape up over the coming weeks, and see which teams have the best shot at taking home the Gold Medal this season! With that all being said, let’s get into the preview!

 
🇯🇵 Team Asia 🇯🇵
 
Starting this list off alphabetically, we have Team Asia! As is the case with most seasons of this tournament, Team Asia’s depth sheet leaves a lot to be desired. While they have a good handful of players at key positions they could lean on, including Petit Hughie @Sen & Soju @Frank at defense and goaltending respectively, there just isn’t enough high star power, or lower line depth for me to confidently say that Team Asia will pull through all the way. That’s not saying that they might not draft well to fill the gaps, and perhaps grab players from teams with TOO much talent to spare, but if you’re matching up against those teams with the players they didn’t need, it’s going to leave a lot to be desired. Team Asia, while still being able to have a fighting chance in the tournament, probably wouldn’t be expected to go all the way off pure talent alone. Anything can happen though, so we'll see what happens for them!

 
🇨🇦 Team Canada 🇨🇦
 
Up next on our list, we have Team Canada! Canada is a very interesting team this season in terms of its potential roster. With a strong emphasis on centers to lean on and win draws, Canada is expected to be a team that will dominate games in the possession numbers. With Toddly Bobbly @ToddlyBobbly & Herald Benson @Benson representing the team in net most likely, Team Canada is gonna have a solid goaltender to lean on every single night. With such a good offense and goaltending, there had to have been a catch, and that came in the form of a weaker than expected defensive pool to choose from. As it stands right now, Carson Tripp @Cartripp14 is their best defenseman at 277 TPA. While that is serviceable, and will provide Canada with a good backbone, it may prove to be a strain on the amount of shots the goalies end up facing in games. When you measure it up against teams like Team USA or Team World, it definitely looks to be a competition of just outshooting and outscoring your opponent. We shall see if the strategy pays off for Canada in the long run!

 
🇪🇺 Team Europe 🇪🇺
 
Onto the halfway point of our preview, we got the stacked Team Europe! These guys are definitely my vote to be the ones to potentially win it all! Similarly to Canada, these guys have an absolutely stacked offense. S94 VHL first overall pick Maverick Goncalves @leandrofg, Nico Belique @Syzygy, Antonia Bucatini @CowboyinAmerica are just a few of the elite talents that Europe is bolstering this season, and could potentially be game changers for Team Europe and the tournament if they’re all put on the same line. With David Slezak @ShawnGlade in net as well, Europe is a dangerous team both in net and in the offensive zone. With that said however, they are very similar to Canada in the sense that they also lack deep defensive depth. With Scrungle Bungle @Novanod headlining Europe's defensive core at a solid 334 TPA as of writing this, it’s serviceable, but it severely drops off from that point. By a margin of 110 TPA, to be exact. Slezak has his work cut out for him, but if he and Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen @Snussu can lock it down for them, they have a seriously solid chance at securing gold for Team Europe!

 
🇺🇸 Team USA 🇺🇸
 
Nearing the end of our list, we got Team USA, and what an interesting team we have here! It’s certainly not something you see very often, but this is a team that has an eligibility sheet of almost all defensemen. With a handful of forwards across the board, and almost no VHLE goaltending representation available, this team is an almost complete polar opposite to Canada and Europe. With the likes of Gul Dukat @MSouthworth, Jillian Woods @jacobcarson877 and Lucy Leitner @LucyXpher headlining the top players of Team USA, they’re all defensemen! They have a handful of serviceable wingers thrown into the mix, but next to no elite centers or goaltenders to lean on. With this in mind, Team USA is going to HAVE to be a shutdown team. The defense is gonna be relied on HEAVILY, in 5v5, special teams, I wouldn’t be surprised to even see defensemen playing forward positions if they somehow find a way to pull that off with the commissioners (please let that happen, it would be so funny.) Either way, Team USA is a very interesting team, but has the tools to shut down some of the big offenses in the tournament like Canada and Europe where needed, so we will see what happens!

 
🌍 Team World 🌍
 
Last but not least, we have Team World! In a bit of a similar situation to Team Asia, Team World is lacking a bit in terms of great depth to lean on, but they make up for it in their high end talent spread across all positions. Olumide Anders @Theory, Sunset Moth @McWolf and Jorgen Lovstrom @Pifferfish all either at max TPA or nearly to it, they all provide solid anchors for their positions at forward, defense, and goaltending respectively. Team World has a fair amount of defensive and center depth to lean on too, with Hezeus Ohmontegue-Steinhardt X @Sisyphus and Piston Maicupp @MandyManiac being the notable players in those regards. All in all, World has the pieces it needs to make a deep run, but will a lengthy run in the round robin and medal games prove to be too much for the high end talent, and the team buckles under the pressure? Only time will tell, but this is certainly an interesting and fun team to watch going into this season's tournament no doubt!

 
With all being said, this season's World Juniors is shaping up to be a remarkable and unique tournament, especially in some of the teams interesting depth charts! If I were to predict who I think has the pieces to go all the way, my bet would be Europe, but in all honesty ANY team can do it. Round Robin only determines seeding, all you have to do in the medal round to win it all is win 2-3 games, so it’s anybody's tournament! Thank you all for reading this season's edition of the WJC preview, tune in next time when we dive deeper into the games, and see if any teams surprised us along the way!

Davos, Switzerland -- After winning the VHLE title in her only try with the Oslo Storm, Antonia Bucatini promised to take a few weeks off. It was the normal activities of course: travel to Italy, see friends and family, a quick (and secretive) vacation with Gianfranco del Rocco - the works.
 
But all good things must come to an end eventually, and the Bucatini, this change would be yet another large one. For the fourth time in three seasons, she would be reporting to a new team facility. This time, though, she would be reporting to the team which whom she could very well spend the next eight seasons, her permanent VHL home in Davos.
 
"Butterflies probably aren't right. More like I just had a lot of extra energy in my stomach that first day," Bucatini told reporters a week later. "There were a lot of hellos going around, and I think everyone was just pumped to be there."
 
Indeed, next year's Davos team will look a lot different from last year's. Not only will players such as Bucatini, Forum Content, Sunset Moth, Winston Dixon Jr. and David Slezak all be graduating from the VHLE, but a series of trades brought in a bunch of newcomer veterans including Grigor Ironhide, Sadie St. Louis, and Skor McFleury.
 
The result is that it may take some time for all the disparate parts to gel, but Bucatini thinks it will be worth the wait. "I think we can make some noise this season," she added. "I know we're probably not anyone's title favorites, but I'm excited to see where this goes. My VHL road is just beginning. Let's do this."

Davos, Switzerland -- After winning the VHLE title in her only try with the Oslo Storm, Antonia Bucatini promised to take a few weeks off. It was the normal activities of course: travel to Italy, see friends and family, a quick (and secretive) vacation with Gianfranco del Rocco - the works.
 
But all good things must come to an end eventually, and the Bucatini, this change would be yet another large one. For the fourth time in three seasons, she would be reporting to a new team facility. This time, though, she would be reporting to the team which whom she could very well spend the next eight seasons, her permanent VHL home in Davos.
 
"Butterflies probably aren't right. More like I just had a lot of extra energy in my stomach that first day," Bucatini told reporters a week later. "There were a lot of hellos going around, and I think everyone was just pumped to be there."
 
Indeed, next year's Davos team will look a lot different from last year's. Not only will players such as Bucatini, Forum Content, Sunset Moth, Winston Dixon Jr. and David Slezak all be graduating from the VHLE, but a series of trades brought in a bunch of newcomer veterans including Grigor Ironhide, Sadie St. Louis, and Skor McFleury.
 
The result is that it may take some time for all the disparate parts to gel, but Bucatini thinks it will be worth the wait. "I think we can make some noise this season," she added. "I know we're probably not anyone's title favorites, but I'm excited to see where this goes. My VHL road is just beginning. Let's do this."

CIA’s Early, Probably Wrong S94 Mock Draft
 
After actually being in the draft last season, you thought I would take a year off? Never! That’s for weaklings, wimps, and people that already have TPE banked in other ways (which to be fair, may very well be me next season). I’m here to tell you exactly what the draft will be.
 
… or I would, at least, had the draft lottery happened by now like I thought it would. But alas, the draft lottery may not happen until next week, and I need TPE this week. So I’m going to assume here that the VHL will do the same thing as the inferior NHL and have no teams move in its lottery at all. The odds of this happening are extremely slim, so by Simon T logic, it’s a near certainty.
 
How will this year’s draft shape up? It’s an interesting one, to be certain. There are more recreates than last season, but also fewer (but not none!) first generation players set to make a splash. There are also a few position differences, with more teams in need of defensemen in this draft, but also more blue liners available for selection in kind. I also wouldn’t be shocked by more trades than normal, with a rash of S85 players retiring (especially goalies) meaning we could see some rebuilds start in earnest with some real tear downs.
 
With all of that said, let’s get into some picks! I don’t really know who is friends with who or any of that jazz, so my predictions tend to be based solely on earning power and team need. All TPE levels are based on when I’m writing this on Thursday, May 9. And as always, if you’re not picked where you think you deserve, it’s because I dislike you personally and you should absolutely take offense.
 
 1. Los Angeles Stars: LW Maverick Goncalves - 385 TPE, Cologne Express, @leandrofg
 
What do you get for the team that needs everything? A defenseman like one of the Carson duo would certainly make sense, given the overall dearth of blue liners in the league and the fact that both currently on the Stars will retire this offseason. A goalie might also make sense, since Soju is the only option in the top 20 in this class by TPE and it would guarantee they fill a need. But I’ll say they go best player available with Goncalves. Already playing up a level in the VHLE, Goncalves would provide an offensive star to build around, and potentially a top-level player in terms of talent and growth for seasons to come. A lot of good options here, but nothing wrong with going with the safe one.
 
 2. HC Davos Dynamo: D Jillian Woods - 379 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @jacobcarson877
 
The Dynamo began their rebuild in earnest last offseason, taking forwards Forum Content and Antonia Bucatini as well as goalie Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen in the first round. What hole does that leave on the ice? Why, a talented young defensive star of course! Sticking neck and neck with Goncalves in terms of TPE, Woods will be a candidate for the top pick in the draft depending on the team, including the Stars or the Dynamo themselves if the lottery falls that way. But even if Woods falls to number two, I wouldn’t imagine that she would fall much further due to her growth potential and the fact that just about every team could use another strong young player on defense.
 
 3. Riga Reign: D Felicia Hardy - 343 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @JCarson
 
The Reign are in a very interesting position. First of all, they haven’t yet announced their first new general manager in more than 40 seasons, a position that would seemingly be important entering a draft. Second, a lot of their players are in the prime of their careers, but as evidenced by the fact they’re picking third in the draft, those prime players may not be the answer for the team. Third, while many teams are looking to upgrade at goalie and defense, goalie Red Panda may be the star of the team, and Riga took Lucy Leitner on defense with the third pick last season. Still, when all else fails, I don’t think best player available is a bad option. Hardy would pair with Leitner on what would become in the league’s strongest defensive pairing in a few season’s time, and Hardy provides a consistent player for a Reign team that may enter a rebuild if the new GM so wishes. Plus, as we’re about to explore, there are better landing spots for a few of the forwards available.
 
 4. Vancouver Wolves: C Pierre Marc Bouchard - 332 TPE, Halifax 21st, @Gaikoku-hito
 
Honestly, I think this pick might be more of a lock than either the first or second pick. Bouchard’s agency lives and breathes Wolves hockey, Bouchard is the best player available and fourth overall on the practice hours board, and they are a consistent earner and talented player. From the Wolves standpoint, the team also has a whole host of wings from the past couple of drafts, but the only center on the roster is S89 player Mikko Borisyuk. This combination simply makes too much sense, and I’d be fairly surprised if they go a different direction.
 
 5. Vancouver Wolves (from Calgary): G Soju - 284 TPE, Philadelphia Reapers, @Frank
 
Now this is where I’m going to start to get a bit spicy. The obvious pick here would be another forward, particularly with Left Alone set to retire after next season. A defenseman could also make sense, given that Liv Slater will be starting to show their age soon. And goalie Dalkr Vidarsson is on pace to be a future star. But with that said… if the Wolves could grab both their GM and AGM during this draft, could they avoid pulling the trigger? And especially given a potentially frothy trade market for goalies, where Vidarsson would fetch a major haul from a team like London or even D.C. looking to extend their window? I’ll go off the board here and say the Wolves steal a goalie from a number of other potential suitors.
 
 6. Helsinki Titans: LW Pombo - 317 TPE, Las Vegas Aces, @samx
 
Make it yet another team taking a GM player with their first round pick. Pombo is best player available at this point though, and I honestly wouldn’t be shocked if they go as high as #3 to Riga, depending on the new GM. In this breakdown though, Pombo steps in as the Titans prepare to potentially reload more than rebuild, given the young talent on their team like Adi Dassler and YaBoi Oven. Especially with some rebuilds coming in the European Conference, if the Titans are able to upgrade at goalie they could certainly come back to be a playoff team once again, even after last year’s trades.
 
  7. Chicago Phoenix: D Bollos de Trueno - 301 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @Thunder
 
After jumping up to a wild card bid this season, the Phoenix are a team that are looking to win sooner rather than later. Ryan Artyomov may be one of the league’s best goalies next season following retirements and regression, Joshua Schwarzer is prepped to take the leap to be a star, and I wouldn’t sleep on last year’s fifth overall pick UghSike as a Rookie of the Year candidate next year. But even after drafting Lionel Collberg and Karol Lamb in the first round in recent years, there is still a place for a potential star defensive player to round out the roster. While de Trueno wouldn’t make an impact on next year’s team, they would arrive like a thunderbolt the following season in front of Artyomov on what should still be a team looking to contend for the next couple seasons.
 
 8. Moscow Menace (from Warsaw): D Lazlo Holmes - 286 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @Gustav
 
When the Menace faced off against the Predators in the European Wild Card round, it turns out they would have gotten the eighth pick either way - they have both firsts. And with Warsaw’s selection coming first, it makes sense to me to take the best defensive player on the board in Holmes. From a talented and consistent agency, Holmes provides additional some protection against upcoming regression for Kronchy Kardashian and Nils Andersson, as well as potential upcoming free agency from Leif Reingaard, alongside last year’s first round pick Benjamin Abenduct. Plus, Moscow has so much young talent at forward that a player like The Phantom of the VHL or Maple Dogwood might struggle to find playing time on this roster without some major trades occurring.
 
  9. New York Americans: C The Phantom of the VHL - 312 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @Hogan
 
The New York Americans are another team ready to win now, and particularly in the forward core it’s getting to be now or never. Every single forward from this past season’s team was S88 or older, and two of those players (Alfred Champagne and Vinny Lecavalier) are set to retire. And while the Americans do have two forwards in Wayne Gretzky and Chris Reynolds Jr. set to provide reinforcement from the VHLE, there’s room for even more youth in the forward corps. The Phantom dropped a bit down the board due to team need, but the Americans would be a great landing spot to perhaps play immediately and find a role on a winning team.
 
  10. Prague Phantoms: D Erik Thorvaldsson - 273 TPE, Mississauga Hounds, @Tetricide
 
It’s a draft full of GM players going to their teams! While Thorvaldsson isn’t quite the best player available here by practice hours (though very close), I’d be rather surprised if Prague passes on Thorvaldsson if they’re available. In this space last season, I said it’d be one more go until a rebuild for Prague, and now we’re here. Being able to snag a GM player provides a bit of stability for both a rebuilding team and a new front office, and a defensive star provides a bit of security to last year’s first round pick, goalie Ondrej Vencko, as well. A slam dunk selection if available.
 
 11. Toronto Legion: RW Maple Dogwood - 275 TPE, Halifax 21st, @dogwoodmaple
 
For years since being drafted first and third in the S87 Draft, Mac Atlas and Jimi Jaks have been the stars of Toronto’s dreams. But all dreams must end sometime, and indeed, both Atlas and Jaks enter this offseason facing some rough depreciation and only two seasons left in the league. The Legion focused last draft on defense with a great selection in Gul Dukat, but this time, an infusion of youth into the forward corps is well needed. Dogwood is not only best player available, but they also some real top-end talent upside that is rare to find with the 11th overall pick.
 
12. Los Angeles Stars (from Malmo): D Andrew Skilton - 248 TPE, Halifax 21st, @ace_five_
 
One of these picks, some team is going to take a chance on a first generation player. I think it happens here. Skilton has been extremely impressive since coming into the league last offseason, chasing down multiple notable recreated players on the practice hours charts with ease. They developed well under the watchful eye of Halifax, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Skilton ends up shooting into the top 10 when all is said and done. Here at the 12th pick, Skilton would be the stone that L.A. would rebuild their defense around and pair with the first overall pick Goncalves to really get the Stars rebuild going in earnest.
 
 13. Helsinki Titans (from D.C.): LW Wally Lose - 256 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @youloser1337
 
The Titans would normally be another team that I’d expect to look at a first generation player. However, with last year’s first round pick Tyler Lawson having not shown up to practice for a few weeks, I’m wondering if they go with a more high-ceiling recreate, particularly at forward to pair with Pombo in the future. That almost perfectly describes Lose, whose agency has had plenty of success with past players in the VHL. While Lose’s practice hours do trail behind some peers that also entered the VHLM as the S92 Trade Deadline, as a consistent force, Lose would be sure to have a spot in Helsinki for seasons to come.
 
 14. Moscow Menace: RW Matteo Stefano - 208 TPE, Mississauga Hounds, @mmrs617
 
With two first round picks, the Menace can afford to take a few big swings. This is one that I think would connect. Despite only joining Mississauga about halfway through the VHLM season, the first generation player Stefano has already secured his promotion to the VHLE next season through maximum practice, an impressive record for a newcomer. As a passing-focused player, Stefano would also provide a bit of playmaking in a Menace forward corps that has a lot of scoring-focused players. Moscow is perhaps one of the best homes to develop new players, and the two would be a great match here. Similar to Skilton, don’t be shocked if a team falls in love with Stefano in the back half of the top ten.
 
 15. Riga Reign (from Seattle): C Johnny Tsunami - 234 TPE, Houston Bulls, @Vice
 
After so many Houston Bulls taken in the first round of last year’s draft, it’s a bit surprising to see the first one fall all the way to pick 15 in this mock. But the Reign wouldn’t mind, picking up a talented forward in Tsunami. Although a recreate, Tsunami didn’t actually join the Bulls until partway into the season, resulting in just 54 games played. During that time, however, Tsunami has been very consistent in showing up to practice and provides a lot of top-end upside to a Riga team in need of exactly that. No matter who the new GM is, they should be able to find a place for this type of center.
 
  16. London United: LW Eugene Ryanheart - 195 TPE, Las Vegas Aces, @jesse115
 
What I said about Prague last season applies to London this season - it’s probably one more year, then it’s rebuild time. And that rebuild may come even sooner if London doesn’t find a replacement for future Hall of Famer Jesse Teno in goal. That means London can really go any direction with this pick, because it’s expected that the player will be a part of the next generation of London rather than this one. So, why not go for a quick riser? After going just 50th in last season’s VHLM Draft due to some early welfare earning, Ryanheart has consistently put in the practice work in recent weeks, including even a Biography from his agency just this very week. That has gotten GMs’ attention in the top part of second round, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he even sneaks into the first with another week or two of strong practice before the draft.
 
If you weren’t mentioned here, remember: There’s still a lot to shake out! Make sure to chat with GMs as they reach out, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see some second or third round picks in this draft become stars. Best of luck to all draftees, and happy drafting!
 

1. Going into the offseason, what do you believe Davos needs to become competitive once more?
It's actually an interesting question - does Davos want to be competitive? I could say sell the farm, but I think a momentary hit for longer-term success makes more sense.
 
2. How would you reflect on your player’s season individually? Is there anything you would’ve wanted to improve on or see from them?
Absolutely spectacular, honestly couldn't have asked for any more. Especially with the title and Bucatini's playoff performance, I'm very happy.
 
3. To those who have just graduated from the VHLE, welcome to Davos! What do you hope to bring to the team? To our veterans, what would you like to see from our rookies next season?
Right now, I know there might be high expectations, but I want to mold to the players around me. If I can help players like MacEvoy, Walker and Content be the best they can be, then I'm happy.
 
5. In a Game 7 shootout situation, which active VHL starting goalie would you want in net for you?
I know they're about to retire, but it's tough to pick anyone other than Teno. Just so clutch, and may very well pick up another title tonight.
 
6. How did you find out about the existence of the VHL?
It was a long, long time ago now, but the VHL was an affiliate of an old football league I used to be a part of. Shared some of the same leadership too. Happy that this place is somehow still going.
 
7. Thoughts on this year’s NHL draft lottery? 
I'm not a Blackhawks fan per se, but I've got some affinity for them after living in Chicago during the Toews/Kane era. It would have been very funny to see them get another #1 pick, but props to San Jose for having something good happen, I suppose.

CIA’s Early, Probably Wrong S94 Mock Draft
 
After actually being in the draft last season, you thought I would take a year off? Never! That’s for weaklings, wimps, and people that already have TPE banked in other ways (which to be fair, may very well be me next season). I’m here to tell you exactly what the draft will be.
 
… or I would, at least, had the draft lottery happened by now like I thought it would. But alas, the draft lottery may not happen until next week, and I need TPE this week. So I’m going to assume here that the VHL will do the same thing as the inferior NHL and have no teams move in its lottery at all. The odds of this happening are extremely slim, so by Simon T logic, it’s a near certainty.
 
How will this year’s draft shape up? It’s an interesting one, to be certain. There are more recreates than last season, but also fewer (but not none!) first generation players set to make a splash. There are also a few position differences, with more teams in need of defensemen in this draft, but also more blue liners available for selection in kind. I also wouldn’t be shocked by more trades than normal, with a rash of S85 players retiring (especially goalies) meaning we could see some rebuilds start in earnest with some real tear downs.
 
With all of that said, let’s get into some picks! I don’t really know who is friends with who or any of that jazz, so my predictions tend to be based solely on earning power and team need. All TPE levels are based on when I’m writing this on Thursday, May 9. And as always, if you’re not picked where you think you deserve, it’s because I dislike you personally and you should absolutely take offense.
 
 1. Los Angeles Stars: LW Maverick Goncalves - 385 TPE, Cologne Express, @leandrofg
 
What do you get for the team that needs everything? A defenseman like one of the Carson duo would certainly make sense, given the overall dearth of blue liners in the league and the fact that both currently on the Stars will retire this offseason. A goalie might also make sense, since Soju is the only option in the top 20 in this class by TPE and it would guarantee they fill a need. But I’ll say they go best player available with Goncalves. Already playing up a level in the VHLE, Goncalves would provide an offensive star to build around, and potentially a top-level player in terms of talent and growth for seasons to come. A lot of good options here, but nothing wrong with going with the safe one.
 
 2. HC Davos Dynamo: D Jillian Woods - 379 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @jacobcarson877
 
The Dynamo began their rebuild in earnest last offseason, taking forwards Forum Content and Antonia Bucatini as well as goalie Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen in the first round. What hole does that leave on the ice? Why, a talented young defensive star of course! Sticking neck and neck with Goncalves in terms of TPE, Woods will be a candidate for the top pick in the draft depending on the team, including the Stars or the Dynamo themselves if the lottery falls that way. But even if Woods falls to number two, I wouldn’t imagine that she would fall much further due to her growth potential and the fact that just about every team could use another strong young player on defense.
 
 3. Riga Reign: D Felicia Hardy - 343 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @JCarson
 
The Reign are in a very interesting position. First of all, they haven’t yet announced their first new general manager in more than 40 seasons, a position that would seemingly be important entering a draft. Second, a lot of their players are in the prime of their careers, but as evidenced by the fact they’re picking third in the draft, those prime players may not be the answer for the team. Third, while many teams are looking to upgrade at goalie and defense, goalie Red Panda may be the star of the team, and Riga took Lucy Leitner on defense with the third pick last season. Still, when all else fails, I don’t think best player available is a bad option. Hardy would pair with Leitner on what would become in the league’s strongest defensive pairing in a few season’s time, and Hardy provides a consistent player for a Reign team that may enter a rebuild if the new GM so wishes. Plus, as we’re about to explore, there are better landing spots for a few of the forwards available.
 
 4. Vancouver Wolves: C Pierre Marc Bouchard - 332 TPE, Halifax 21st, @Gaikoku-hito
 
Honestly, I think this pick might be more of a lock than either the first or second pick. Bouchard’s agency lives and breathes Wolves hockey, Bouchard is the best player available and fourth overall on the practice hours board, and they are a consistent earner and talented player. From the Wolves standpoint, the team also has a whole host of wings from the past couple of drafts, but the only center on the roster is S89 player Mikko Borisyuk. This combination simply makes too much sense, and I’d be fairly surprised if they go a different direction.
 
 5. Vancouver Wolves (from Calgary): G Soju - 284 TPE, Philadelphia Reapers, @Frank
 
Now this is where I’m going to start to get a bit spicy. The obvious pick here would be another forward, particularly with Left Alone set to retire after next season. A defenseman could also make sense, given that Liv Slater will be starting to show their age soon. And goalie Dalkr Vidarsson is on pace to be a future star. But with that said… if the Wolves could grab both their GM and AGM during this draft, could they avoid pulling the trigger? And especially given a potentially frothy trade market for goalies, where Vidarsson would fetch a major haul from a team like London or even D.C. looking to extend their window? I’ll go off the board here and say the Wolves steal a goalie from a number of other potential suitors.
 
 6. Helsinki Titans: LW Pombo - 317 TPE, Las Vegas Aces, @samx
 
Make it yet another team taking a GM player with their first round pick. Pombo is best player available at this point though, and I honestly wouldn’t be shocked if they go as high as #3 to Riga, depending on the new GM. In this breakdown though, Pombo steps in as the Titans prepare to potentially reload more than rebuild, given the young talent on their team like Adi Dassler and YaBoi Oven. Especially with some rebuilds coming in the European Conference, if the Titans are able to upgrade at goalie they could certainly come back to be a playoff team once again, even after last year’s trades.
 
  7. Chicago Phoenix: D Bollos de Trueno - 301 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @Thunder
 
After jumping up to a wild card bid this season, the Phoenix are a team that are looking to win sooner rather than later. Ryan Artyomov may be one of the league’s best goalies next season following retirements and regression, Joshua Schwarzer is prepped to take the leap to be a star, and I wouldn’t sleep on last year’s fifth overall pick UghSike as a Rookie of the Year candidate next year. But even after drafting Lionel Collberg and Karol Lamb in the first round in recent years, there is still a place for a potential star defensive player to round out the roster. While de Trueno wouldn’t make an impact on next year’s team, they would arrive like a thunderbolt the following season in front of Artyomov on what should still be a team looking to contend for the next couple seasons.
 
 8. Moscow Menace (from Warsaw): D Lazlo Holmes - 286 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @Gustav
 
When the Menace faced off against the Predators in the European Wild Card round, it turns out they would have gotten the eighth pick either way - they have both firsts. And with Warsaw’s selection coming first, it makes sense to me to take the best defensive player on the board in Holmes. From a talented and consistent agency, Holmes provides additional some protection against upcoming regression for Kronchy Kardashian and Nils Andersson, as well as potential upcoming free agency from Leif Reingaard, alongside last year’s first round pick Benjamin Abenduct. Plus, Moscow has so much young talent at forward that a player like The Phantom of the VHL or Maple Dogwood might struggle to find playing time on this roster without some major trades occurring.
 
  9. New York Americans: C The Phantom of the VHL - 312 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @Hogan
 
The New York Americans are another team ready to win now, and particularly in the forward core it’s getting to be now or never. Every single forward from this past season’s team was S88 or older, and two of those players (Alfred Champagne and Vinny Lecavalier) are set to retire. And while the Americans do have two forwards in Wayne Gretzky and Chris Reynolds Jr. set to provide reinforcement from the VHLE, there’s room for even more youth in the forward corps. The Phantom dropped a bit down the board due to team need, but the Americans would be a great landing spot to perhaps play immediately and find a role on a winning team.
 
  10. Prague Phantoms: D Erik Thorvaldsson - 273 TPE, Mississauga Hounds, @Tetricide
 
It’s a draft full of GM players going to their teams! While Thorvaldsson isn’t quite the best player available here by practice hours (though very close), I’d be rather surprised if Prague passes on Thorvaldsson if they’re available. In this space last season, I said it’d be one more go until a rebuild for Prague, and now we’re here. Being able to snag a GM player provides a bit of stability for both a rebuilding team and a new front office, and a defensive star provides a bit of security to last year’s first round pick, goalie Ondrej Vencko, as well. A slam dunk selection if available.
 
 11. Toronto Legion: RW Maple Dogwood - 275 TPE, Halifax 21st, @dogwoodmaple
 
For years since being drafted first and third in the S87 Draft, Mac Atlas and Jimi Jaks have been the stars of Toronto’s dreams. But all dreams must end sometime, and indeed, both Atlas and Jaks enter this offseason facing some rough depreciation and only two seasons left in the league. The Legion focused last draft on defense with a great selection in Gul Dukat, but this time, an infusion of youth into the forward corps is well needed. Dogwood is not only best player available, but they also some real top-end talent upside that is rare to find with the 11th overall pick.
 
12. Los Angeles Stars (from Malmo): D Andrew Skilton - 248 TPE, Halifax 21st, @ace_five_
 
One of these picks, some team is going to take a chance on a first generation player. I think it happens here. Skilton has been extremely impressive since coming into the league last offseason, chasing down multiple notable recreated players on the practice hours charts with ease. They developed well under the watchful eye of Halifax, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Skilton ends up shooting into the top 10 when all is said and done. Here at the 12th pick, Skilton would be the stone that L.A. would rebuild their defense around and pair with the first overall pick Goncalves to really get the Stars rebuild going in earnest.
 
 13. Helsinki Titans (from D.C.): LW Wally Lose - 256 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @youloser1337
 
The Titans would normally be another team that I’d expect to look at a first generation player. However, with last year’s first round pick Tyler Lawson having not shown up to practice for a few weeks, I’m wondering if they go with a more high-ceiling recreate, particularly at forward to pair with Pombo in the future. That almost perfectly describes Lose, whose agency has had plenty of success with past players in the VHL. While Lose’s practice hours do trail behind some peers that also entered the VHLM as the S92 Trade Deadline, as a consistent force, Lose would be sure to have a spot in Helsinki for seasons to come.
 
 14. Moscow Menace: RW Matteo Stefano - 208 TPE, Mississauga Hounds, @mmrs617
 
With two first round picks, the Menace can afford to take a few big swings. This is one that I think would connect. Despite only joining Mississauga about halfway through the VHLM season, the first generation player Stefano has already secured his promotion to the VHLE next season through maximum practice, an impressive record for a newcomer. As a passing-focused player, Stefano would also provide a bit of playmaking in a Menace forward corps that has a lot of scoring-focused players. Moscow is perhaps one of the best homes to develop new players, and the two would be a great match here. Similar to Skilton, don’t be shocked if a team falls in love with Stefano in the back half of the top ten.
 
 15. Riga Reign (from Seattle): C Johnny Tsunami - 234 TPE, Houston Bulls, @Vice
 
After so many Houston Bulls taken in the first round of last year’s draft, it’s a bit surprising to see the first one fall all the way to pick 15 in this mock. But the Reign wouldn’t mind, picking up a talented forward in Tsunami. Although a recreate, Tsunami didn’t actually join the Bulls until partway into the season, resulting in just 54 games played. During that time, however, Tsunami has been very consistent in showing up to practice and provides a lot of top-end upside to a Riga team in need of exactly that. No matter who the new GM is, they should be able to find a place for this type of center.
 
  16. London United: LW Eugene Ryanheart - 195 TPE, Las Vegas Aces, @jesse115
 
What I said about Prague last season applies to London this season - it’s probably one more year, then it’s rebuild time. And that rebuild may come even sooner if London doesn’t find a replacement for future Hall of Famer Jesse Teno in goal. That means London can really go any direction with this pick, because it’s expected that the player will be a part of the next generation of London rather than this one. So, why not go for a quick riser? After going just 50th in last season’s VHLM Draft due to some early welfare earning, Ryanheart has consistently put in the practice work in recent weeks, including even a Biography from his agency just this very week. That has gotten GMs’ attention in the top part of second round, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he even sneaks into the first with another week or two of strong practice before the draft.
 
If you weren’t mentioned here, remember: There’s still a lot to shake out! Make sure to chat with GMs as they reach out, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see some second or third round picks in this draft become stars. Best of luck to all draftees, and happy drafting!
 

I'd like to thank Seattle for making my draft order wrong within 10 minutes of this being posted. Glad to live up to the title.

CIA’s Early, Probably Wrong S94 Mock Draft
 
After actually being in the draft last season, you thought I would take a year off? Never! That’s for weaklings, wimps, and people that already have TPE banked in other ways (which to be fair, may very well be me next season). I’m here to tell you exactly what the draft will be.
 
… or I would, at least, had the draft lottery happened by now like I thought it would. But alas, the draft lottery may not happen until next week, and I need TPE this week. So I’m going to assume here that the VHL will do the same thing as the inferior NHL and have no teams move in its lottery at all. The odds of this happening are extremely slim, so by Simon T logic, it’s a near certainty.
 
How will this year’s draft shape up? It’s an interesting one, to be certain. There are more recreates than last season, but also fewer (but not none!) first generation players set to make a splash. There are also a few position differences, with more teams in need of defensemen in this draft, but also more blue liners available for selection in kind. I also wouldn’t be shocked by more trades than normal, with a rash of S85 players retiring (especially goalies) meaning we could see some rebuilds start in earnest with some real tear downs.
 
With all of that said, let’s get into some picks! I don’t really know who is friends with who or any of that jazz, so my predictions tend to be based solely on earning power and team need. All TPE levels are based on when I’m writing this on Thursday, May 9. And as always, if you’re not picked where you think you deserve, it’s because I dislike you personally and you should absolutely take offense.
 
 1. Los Angeles Stars: LW Maverick Goncalves - 385 TPE, Cologne Express, @leandrofg
 
What do you get for the team that needs everything? A defenseman like one of the Carson duo would certainly make sense, given the overall dearth of blue liners in the league and the fact that both currently on the Stars will retire this offseason. A goalie might also make sense, since Soju is the only option in the top 20 in this class by TPE and it would guarantee they fill a need. But I’ll say they go best player available with Goncalves. Already playing up a level in the VHLE, Goncalves would provide an offensive star to build around, and potentially a top-level player in terms of talent and growth for seasons to come. A lot of good options here, but nothing wrong with going with the safe one.
 
 2. HC Davos Dynamo: D Jillian Woods - 379 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @jacobcarson877
 
The Dynamo began their rebuild in earnest last offseason, taking forwards Forum Content and Antonia Bucatini as well as goalie Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen in the first round. What hole does that leave on the ice? Why, a talented young defensive star of course! Sticking neck and neck with Goncalves in terms of TPE, Woods will be a candidate for the top pick in the draft depending on the team, including the Stars or the Dynamo themselves if the lottery falls that way. But even if Woods falls to number two, I wouldn’t imagine that she would fall much further due to her growth potential and the fact that just about every team could use another strong young player on defense.
 
 3. Riga Reign: D Felicia Hardy - 343 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @JCarson
 
The Reign are in a very interesting position. First of all, they haven’t yet announced their first new general manager in more than 40 seasons, a position that would seemingly be important entering a draft. Second, a lot of their players are in the prime of their careers, but as evidenced by the fact they’re picking third in the draft, those prime players may not be the answer for the team. Third, while many teams are looking to upgrade at goalie and defense, goalie Red Panda may be the star of the team, and Riga took Lucy Leitner on defense with the third pick last season. Still, when all else fails, I don’t think best player available is a bad option. Hardy would pair with Leitner on what would become in the league’s strongest defensive pairing in a few season’s time, and Hardy provides a consistent player for a Reign team that may enter a rebuild if the new GM so wishes. Plus, as we’re about to explore, there are better landing spots for a few of the forwards available.
 
 4. Vancouver Wolves: C Pierre Marc Bouchard - 332 TPE, Halifax 21st, @Gaikoku-hito
 
Honestly, I think this pick might be more of a lock than either the first or second pick. Bouchard’s agency lives and breathes Wolves hockey, Bouchard is the best player available and fourth overall on the practice hours board, and they are a consistent earner and talented player. From the Wolves standpoint, the team also has a whole host of wings from the past couple of drafts, but the only center on the roster is S89 player Mikko Borisyuk. This combination simply makes too much sense, and I’d be fairly surprised if they go a different direction.
 
 5. Vancouver Wolves (from Calgary): G Soju - 284 TPE, Philadelphia Reapers, @Frank
 
Now this is where I’m going to start to get a bit spicy. The obvious pick here would be another forward, particularly with Left Alone set to retire after next season. A defenseman could also make sense, given that Liv Slater will be starting to show their age soon. And goalie Dalkr Vidarsson is on pace to be a future star. But with that said… if the Wolves could grab both their GM and AGM during this draft, could they avoid pulling the trigger? And especially given a potentially frothy trade market for goalies, where Vidarsson would fetch a major haul from a team like London or even D.C. looking to extend their window? I’ll go off the board here and say the Wolves steal a goalie from a number of other potential suitors.
 
 6. Helsinki Titans: LW Pombo - 317 TPE, Las Vegas Aces, @samx
 
Make it yet another team taking a GM player with their first round pick. Pombo is best player available at this point though, and I honestly wouldn’t be shocked if they go as high as #3 to Riga, depending on the new GM. In this breakdown though, Pombo steps in as the Titans prepare to potentially reload more than rebuild, given the young talent on their team like Adi Dassler and YaBoi Oven. Especially with some rebuilds coming in the European Conference, if the Titans are able to upgrade at goalie they could certainly come back to be a playoff team once again, even after last year’s trades.
 
  7. Chicago Phoenix: D Bollos de Trueno - 301 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @Thunder
 
After jumping up to a wild card bid this season, the Phoenix are a team that are looking to win sooner rather than later. Ryan Artyomov may be one of the league’s best goalies next season following retirements and regression, Joshua Schwarzer is prepped to take the leap to be a star, and I wouldn’t sleep on last year’s fifth overall pick UghSike as a Rookie of the Year candidate next year. But even after drafting Lionel Collberg and Karol Lamb in the first round in recent years, there is still a place for a potential star defensive player to round out the roster. While de Trueno wouldn’t make an impact on next year’s team, they would arrive like a thunderbolt the following season in front of Artyomov on what should still be a team looking to contend for the next couple seasons.
 
 8. Moscow Menace (from Warsaw): D Lazlo Holmes - 286 TPE, Saskatoon Wild, @Gustav
 
When the Menace faced off against the Predators in the European Wild Card round, it turns out they would have gotten the eighth pick either way - they have both firsts. And with Warsaw’s selection coming first, it makes sense to me to take the best defensive player on the board in Holmes. From a talented and consistent agency, Holmes provides additional some protection against upcoming regression for Kronchy Kardashian and Nils Andersson, as well as potential upcoming free agency from Leif Reingaard, alongside last year’s first round pick Benjamin Abenduct. Plus, Moscow has so much young talent at forward that a player like The Phantom of the VHL or Maple Dogwood might struggle to find playing time on this roster without some major trades occurring.
 
  9. New York Americans: C The Phantom of the VHL - 312 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @Hogan
 
The New York Americans are another team ready to win now, and particularly in the forward core it’s getting to be now or never. Every single forward from this past season’s team was S88 or older, and two of those players (Alfred Champagne and Vinny Lecavalier) are set to retire. And while the Americans do have two forwards in Wayne Gretzky and Chris Reynolds Jr. set to provide reinforcement from the VHLE, there’s room for even more youth in the forward corps. The Phantom dropped a bit down the board due to team need, but the Americans would be a great landing spot to perhaps play immediately and find a role on a winning team.
 
  10. Prague Phantoms: D Erik Thorvaldsson - 273 TPE, Mississauga Hounds, @Tetricide
 
It’s a draft full of GM players going to their teams! While Thorvaldsson isn’t quite the best player available here by practice hours (though very close), I’d be rather surprised if Prague passes on Thorvaldsson if they’re available. In this space last season, I said it’d be one more go until a rebuild for Prague, and now we’re here. Being able to snag a GM player provides a bit of stability for both a rebuilding team and a new front office, and a defensive star provides a bit of security to last year’s first round pick, goalie Ondrej Vencko, as well. A slam dunk selection if available.
 
 11. Toronto Legion: RW Maple Dogwood - 275 TPE, Halifax 21st, @dogwoodmaple
 
For years since being drafted first and third in the S87 Draft, Mac Atlas and Jimi Jaks have been the stars of Toronto’s dreams. But all dreams must end sometime, and indeed, both Atlas and Jaks enter this offseason facing some rough depreciation and only two seasons left in the league. The Legion focused last draft on defense with a great selection in Gul Dukat, but this time, an infusion of youth into the forward corps is well needed. Dogwood is not only best player available, but they also some real top-end talent upside that is rare to find with the 11th overall pick.
 
12. Los Angeles Stars (from Malmo): D Andrew Skilton - 248 TPE, Halifax 21st, @ace_five_
 
One of these picks, some team is going to take a chance on a first generation player. I think it happens here. Skilton has been extremely impressive since coming into the league last offseason, chasing down multiple notable recreated players on the practice hours charts with ease. They developed well under the watchful eye of Halifax, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Skilton ends up shooting into the top 10 when all is said and done. Here at the 12th pick, Skilton would be the stone that L.A. would rebuild their defense around and pair with the first overall pick Goncalves to really get the Stars rebuild going in earnest.
 
 13. Helsinki Titans (from D.C.): LW Wally Lose - 256 TPE, Ottawa Lynx, @youloser1337
 
The Titans would normally be another team that I’d expect to look at a first generation player. However, with last year’s first round pick Tyler Lawson having not shown up to practice for a few weeks, I’m wondering if they go with a more high-ceiling recreate, particularly at forward to pair with Pombo in the future. That almost perfectly describes Lose, whose agency has had plenty of success with past players in the VHL. While Lose’s practice hours do trail behind some peers that also entered the VHLM as the S92 Trade Deadline, as a consistent force, Lose would be sure to have a spot in Helsinki for seasons to come.
 
 14. Moscow Menace: RW Matteo Stefano - 208 TPE, Mississauga Hounds, @mmrs617
 
With two first round picks, the Menace can afford to take a few big swings. This is one that I think would connect. Despite only joining Mississauga about halfway through the VHLM season, the first generation player Stefano has already secured his promotion to the VHLE next season through maximum practice, an impressive record for a newcomer. As a passing-focused player, Stefano would also provide a bit of playmaking in a Menace forward corps that has a lot of scoring-focused players. Moscow is perhaps one of the best homes to develop new players, and the two would be a great match here. Similar to Skilton, don’t be shocked if a team falls in love with Stefano in the back half of the top ten.
 
 15. Riga Reign (from Seattle): C Johnny Tsunami - 234 TPE, Houston Bulls, @Vice
 
After so many Houston Bulls taken in the first round of last year’s draft, it’s a bit surprising to see the first one fall all the way to pick 15 in this mock. But the Reign wouldn’t mind, picking up a talented forward in Tsunami. Although a recreate, Tsunami didn’t actually join the Bulls until partway into the season, resulting in just 54 games played. During that time, however, Tsunami has been very consistent in showing up to practice and provides a lot of top-end upside to a Riga team in need of exactly that. No matter who the new GM is, they should be able to find a place for this type of center.
 
  16. London United: LW Eugene Ryanheart - 195 TPE, Las Vegas Aces, @jesse115
 
What I said about Prague last season applies to London this season - it’s probably one more year, then it’s rebuild time. And that rebuild may come even sooner if London doesn’t find a replacement for future Hall of Famer Jesse Teno in goal. That means London can really go any direction with this pick, because it’s expected that the player will be a part of the next generation of London rather than this one. So, why not go for a quick riser? After going just 50th in last season’s VHLM Draft due to some early welfare earning, Ryanheart has consistently put in the practice work in recent weeks, including even a Biography from his agency just this very week. That has gotten GMs’ attention in the top part of second round, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he even sneaks into the first with another week or two of strong practice before the draft.
 
If you weren’t mentioned here, remember: There’s still a lot to shake out! Make sure to chat with GMs as they reach out, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see some second or third round picks in this draft become stars. Best of luck to all draftees, and happy drafting!