Johnny_HX

1. This is amazing. This is my rookie season in the VHLE and I am so proud of how far we have come.
2. My player performed quite well this season. He started to drop off at the end of the year, but managed to stay consistent throughout the season and in the playoffs.
3. Not to this degree no. I have been in a playoff scenario before, but this run has been monumental.
4. I like seeing the excitement from the teammates in the discord. It makes me happy to see them excited and proud of us.
5. Not really. I try to keep superstitions out of my routine because I feel as it messes with my mental preparation. 
6.I think it should be a train conductor. His name should be funny, but I dont know exactly what. Maybe Skipper because that APPARENTLY is what the captain of a train is often called (Thanks Google)!

INDEX
 
Index is here and up, so for the @VHLE GM that are in the playoffs that means send in your lines. For those that aren't, it means I had to sadly tag you with one thing because it's so much easier. For everyone else playoffs begin tomorrow, good luck to everyone.  

1. I think the management is doing great. They understand what we need and are not being hesitant, which I appreciate.
2. I really do. We are kicking some ass and I am confident in the team.
3. It is always important. Having defensemen who are able to score at this rate always benefits the team, especially since they can be considered the full package hockey player.
4. I am not, but I am trying to create a player who is efficient on both sides of the ice, being a main contributor to goals, but also helping keep the puck out of the net.
5. My favorite team is the Montreal Canadiens. It has been since I was born.
6. I have not done many spring break trips, but I had a winter reading week trip a few years ago with my University and we went to New York. It was a very exciting experience.  

1. Absolutely. I believe in this team!
2. This team should push to the top together. We don’t need a change.
3. It’s an honour to play with them. I feel I’m getting better playing with them.
4. The penalty shoutout when it’s creative.
5. I worked want to have some games that are just for fun and for the players who don’t get as much playing time as others.
6. It absolutely is. Everything about it interests me.

1. I am surprised on how many goals I am scoring. I always seen myself as an assist first player, but I’m not mad about it.
2. What a great pickup. He’s killing it already.
3. We can absolutely keep it up. We are a deep team and have a solid back end.
4. I’d say Duncan Idaho and Jerome Reinhart.
5. Id probably go with Rome. It’s always been at the top of my list.
6. I would drink a some vodka cran out if it. Get drunk from the cup. And I would just show it off for everyone.

Cologne receives:
Kakapo Bushtit
S84 VAS 4th

Vasteras receives:
Napoleon Bonaparte
S83 COL 1st
S83 COL 3rd


This trade has been accepted by all parties and is pending league approval.

The Part Where I complain:
Friends, rivals, competitors, and colleagues, I come to you today as a VHLE General Manger entering my second season, and I am PISSED. The way that the current talent shortage has manifested itself in the VHL this season is to take all of the remotely good players from VHLE rosters. This is one thing if they were taken at the end of the previous season, or even the night before the draft, but no, they are still being called up to the VHL and removed from the VHLE TODAY, the day the season BEGINS! How are myself and my fellow General Mangers in the VHLE supposed to field an active, competitive, and fun locker room when we can't even predict whether our players will be on our rosters as soon as the DAY OF THE SEASON OPENER. The thing is, the VHL General Managers who are taking these players are in large part adding these lower than 400 TPE players, in some cases lower than 300, to play actual vital roles on their team.... holes that are there due to some mistake that GM made, that we as the VHLE have to pay for.
 
The Part where I show you what I mean:
So anybody can complain, so let's show you exactly what I mean. 
VHL Team A : 1 player above 500 tpe on the roster; 2 players below 350 tpe
VHL Team B : 1 player above 450 tpe; 5 players below 305 TPE, no goalie
VHL Team C : 1 player above 500 tpe; 2  players below 255 tpe; 3 other players below 400 tpe
(and this is just in one conference)
Meanwhile this is the Stockholm roster, a VHLE team which cannot have any players over 400 TPE:

This team's only weakness is goalie, and their D core could stack up against any VHL team I mentioned above.
 
Frankly, my VHLE team from last year which came in 2nd place in the regular season standings would have beaten any of these teams in a best of 7 series, and I think Stockholm would've beaten any of them too. This is the root of the problem, because the VHL is the main product of the league, they deserve the best players, best resources, and then the best chance to compete. The thing is, we have this middle league now, the VHLE, where teams have plenty of active players, players invested in the league, players who are confused why it seems like the league acts like they don't exist! I've spoken to players that didn't know they were being called up by their GM, players who given the option would've stayed down in the VHLE, players who for the first time ever were getting a chance to see their player among the top scorers in the league! The VHLE is fun for players who otherwise would not have had this opportunity, it's what a competitive lower level league looks like, and it is largely getting ignored by the BOG and the blues for fundamental problems that have existed since day 1 which need to be fixed IMMEDIATELY.
 
The Part where I propose my solution:
Anyone can write a media spot complaining about the league, and anyone can demand changes, but here's my solution: RELEGATION. Yes, I know it, can be scary, but I believe that relegation is the ultimate solution for these problems, and it would involve the VHL swallowing the VHLE. 
 
By implementing relegation there would be legitimate punishment for VHL teams that try to tank, because they would of course then have to go play in the VHLE, which clearly none of them want to do. The VHLE in its first season would get end of the round draft picks in the regular VHL draft, and then thereafter would get entered into the draft lottery with all of the other lottery eligible teams with a medium chance at getting a good pick. This way the VHLE teams have a legitimate chance to compete their way out of the lower division of the league, and into the VHL. We would see 2 VHL teams go down to the E every season based on losers of the draft lottery tournament, and 2 VHLE teams go up to the VHL, based on which two teams are in the finals, winner picks which conference to join if there is an option. 
 
This also will most importantly give a punishment to bad GM's who aren't maintaining their roster by drafting fresh talent, and also make it near impossible to tank, which will ruin player experience. At the end of the day, this will increase competitiveness, team unity, and again make a better player experience. This of course will reward VHLE GM's who work their butts off for their team by rewarding them with what all of the lower tier GM's really want, a chance to run a VHL team. 
 
I don't have all of the answers here, the TPE cap would need to be something we figure out, trading between the leagues would need to be figured out, etc, but I think this is the ultimate solution to the problems we have in the VHLE, and I finally took the time to write it out on a day where I was VERY FRUSTRATED to feel like my season was over before it even started by losing 2 of the cornerstones of my roster.
 
Anyways, I haven't written something this long in a very, very , very long time (3 years IRL????), so you know I must feel strongly about this. I would appreciate you all to have constructive thoughts in the comments, tell me what you like, dislike about the idea if you made it this far. Point out problems this creates, point out problems this solved that I might've missed! Overall, I am a big fan of this league, all of these leagues, and want us to retain members, amaze new members, and keep everyone as competitive and happy as possible.
 
Word count: 1002!!!! so 2 weeks to claim it
 
EDIT:
 
To clarify, to start the VHLE would have to relinquish their players rights if a VHL team has them, but can keep players "on loan" until the VHL wants them. This way when they enter the VHL draft the VHLE teams can slowly start to acquire rights to their own players. This way the VHLE teams will not be as strong for the first couple of seasons, but then catch up to skill tier of the VHL over time while VHL teams fall out of favor.
 
 

1. They were pretty relaxing. A nice break from regular life
2. Hopefully just a better year in general I guess
3. We just gotta trust ourselves and play hard. We can do it.
4. I am, but I think it could have been better
5. I would say Maxx
6. Spending time with family and eating

Let's GO Canada! Let's win this tournament!
Offense
LW- James glove Dropper/ @Jamomayo
LW- Mason Jones/ @Masu Chan
LW- Bob Chicoine/ @PoignardLeclerc11
 
C- Johnny Xavier/ @Johnny_HX
C- DB III/ @wcats
C- Alex TheGreat/ @Alex Thegreat
 
RW- Alexandre Leduc/ @Lemorse7
RW- Weenuk Warrior/ @KnightRiley
RW- Ashton Komaryk/ @Komaryk
 
Defense
D- Wattson Power/ @Tape-to-Tape
D- Marshall Maxx/ @lemonan
D- AirRig GoodBrandSun/ @Rhynex Entertainment
D- James Teerkique/ @Mongoose87
 
Goalie
G- Alex Parise/ @Joker_TM
G- Brandt Fhur/ @Tate
 
https://discord.gg/wrseBnu7
Here is the link of the WJC Discord. Join the locker room to be a real part of this journey.
 
 

1. I am still proud of the team for forcing a game 7 against a team as skilled as Ottawa. No regrets.
2. I think I’ll improve my defence a bit more.
3. I think the season was pretty good for me. I was able to contribute well and help the team make it this far.
4. Thank you JB! You are such a friendly guy to have in the room and you always made the people in the discord feel welcome.
5. I have become quite a fan of the Assassins Creed series.
6. Sweet Chili Heat Doritos.

1. I’m feeling great! I can’t wait to play.
2. I think my player played well. Hopefully I can keep it up in round two
3. Absolutely. They’re very tough but that makes it more fun.
4. It was amazing. We had a fun time as a team and celebrated like we already won
5. I think yes for both
6. currently it’s Tick, Tick… Boom

1. They were pretty relaxing. A nice break from regular life
2. Hopefully just a better year in general I guess
3. We just gotta trust ourselves and play hard. We can do it.
4. I am, but I think it could have been better
5. I would say Maxx
6. Spending time with family and eating

Hello and welcome back to another addition of VSN through the VHLM. Today we will look at the final power rankings of S81 as well as a preview of this season's playoffs and more specifically at the matchups that will take place. In order to not make this article 10 hours to read, there will be a short recap on power rankings represented by a graphic, then a more detailed segment of the playoffs preview.
 
 
Power Rankings
 
The Ottawa Lynx have been the top team in the VHLM in S81 and lead the charge through the final power rankings of the season heading into playoffs.
 

 
Shoutout to @KaleebtheMighty for the graphic used here!
 
 
S81 Playoff Preview
 
 
Round 1
 
 
 (1) Ottawa Lynx vs.  (8) Mexico City Kings
 
The league favorite Ottawa Lynx will take on the Mexico City Kings in the first matchup of the first round. These teams met six times throughout S81 with Ottawa winning five out 6 games. Ottawa has torn up the league all season and has sat top of the standings since the second week of sims. Ottawa's power starts from their brick wall capped TPE goaltender Ed Nu @npuBeT who tied for first in wins for goalies and has seen majority of starts since the trading of Wumbo earlier on this season. Ottawa's success then branches out to a wide variety of players such as Gunnarwolfe Vomacka @Wolfe, Perry Lapperriere @KaleebtheMighty, and Matty Live @Mattylive3k, who all reached the top 10 this season in points. Matty Live looks to continue his playoff domination after last season's playoff MVP performance. For some of you who may have forgotten, Live scored the Founder's Cup game winning goal in Ottawa's game 7 victory over Yukon. Live holds the single season playoff record of points by defenceman with 31 and people are excited to see if he can match his performance from last season's playoffs. With the depth of Ottawa's roster and the amount of capped players they have, I'm curious to see if other players will step up in these playoffs as Matty Live did in the S80 playoffs for Ottawa. Mexico City Kings are determined underdogs of these playoffs. Mexico missed the S80 playoffs and look to bounce back against a strong Lynx team. Mexico definitely has some work put ahead for themselves and will need to rely on their capped TPE goaltender Boris Tsezar @comrade cat who has been a key factor in Mexico's playoff hopes this season. Tsezar played for the Halifax 21st in S80 and helped Halifax reach the second round, so Mexico's hopes for this series are for sure on his back. To bring life to Mexico's scoring, Ronan Lavelle @Arce will be the main star. Lavelle is the only player on the Kings to achieve a point per game this season and the rookie looks to continue his tear through the playoffs.
 
Ottawa wins this series 4-0.
 
 
 (2) Las Vegas Aces vs.  (7) Saskatoon Wild
 
The Las Vegas Aces meet up with the Saskatoon Wild in the second matchup of the first round. These teams met ten times throughout S81 with Las Vegas winning nine out of ten games. Las Vegas has been a top 3 team and just recently found themselves passing the Houston Bulls in standings for the second seed late this season. The main source of Las Vegas' success this season has been through Alex TheGreat @Alex Thegreat who has shot off like a rocket, leading the league in points and assists. TheGreat has been the Connor McDavid of the VHLM this season and looks to continue his domination through playoffs after a disappointing first round exit with the Philadelphia Reapers in S80. Las Vegas' power doesn't just come from TheGreat though. Girts Galvins @Girts, Julien Bernier @Julien_Bernier, and Adeline Delle Donne @Dtayl have inflated TheGreat's stats while playing on the same line as him this season, all three players achieved over a point per game. On the back end, S79 veteran Patric Twist @Patty has also achieved a point per game this season and secured the blue line for his goaltender Thomas Price @Thunderidge. Price is arguably in the conversation for best goalie in the league right now and will be looking for revenge after his Founder's Cup loss in S80 while playing for the Yukon Rush. The Saskatoon Wild have the short end of the stick this series. Saskatoon has been hovering around the 7th seed all season and look to bounce back these playoffs after missing the S80 playoffs. After the trading of Cole Pearce, Saskatoon doesn't have any star players when it comes to statistics. They will need to rely on top defenseman Jeff Buffy @Strider who put up just under a point per game this season, and Bob Vladovechsenkchuskin @Grape who is the only capped player on the team. This will be a tough series for the Wild and their young guns will really have to show their talents in hopes for a second round appearance.
 
Las Vegas wins this series 4-0.
 
 
 (3) Houston Bulls vs.  (6) Philadelphia Reapers
 
The Houston Bulls face off against the Philadelphia Reapers in the third matchup of the second round. These teams met six times throughout S81 with Houston winning four out of six games. Houston has been a strong power house all season, challenging Ottawa for first seed many times. Houston's strength revolves around their menace of a goaltender, Juha Jarvinen. Jarvinen has put up insane numbers all season and leads the league in most stats for goalies. This includes his 0.91 SV% and 2.46 GAA, both top of the league. Houston also produces high numbers off their blue line. Mikhail Kovalchuk @Banackock and Cameron Elsby @Spence King are a dynamic duo on the point, both achieving over a point per game this season. Connor Johnson @MrMonkey also holds his own for Houston's defense with 64 points in 44 games after being traded to Houston midway through the season. All three defenseman sit in the top 10 in the league for points by defenseman. On the front end, the star of the show is Mikhail Lospenov @Gretzky didnt lift da puck. Lospenov has played a huge role for Houston this season with over a point per game after being only one of four players in Mississauga in S80. Philadelphia should not be counted out of this series though. Sebastien dokis @Sebastien and Philadelphia's AGM's player Mason Jones @Masu Chan have brought life to the Reapers score sheet this season, both with over a point per game. Although Philadelphia may not have the scoring defensemen that Houston has, they do even out when it comes to capped players. Seymour Butts @Squidward2, Nagy AL @bigAL, and Rusty Cannon @Advantage are all key factors on the blue line. Since being traded to Philadelphia, AL and Cannon have boosted the Reapers back end greatly. Another huge trade for the Reapers this season is their new starting goaltender Cole Pearce @N0HBDY. With four 100 TPE+ goaltenders now for the Reapers, there's definitely no panicking happening if one has a bad game. Something to notice with this series' outcome - Juha Jarvinen, Collusion's player, is retired for being a multi account. If Jarvinen is still able to be part of the Bulls roster, I see Houston winning this series. If not, Philadelphia could see themselves advancing to the next round for sure.
 
Houston wins this series 4-3.
 
 
 (4) Mississauga Hounds vs.  (5) San Diego Marlins
 
On to the last matchup of the first round, the Mississauga Hounds take on the San Diego Marlins. These teams met six times throughout S81 with Mississauga winning five out of six games. The Mississauga Hounds are the last of the top 4 teams in the league and rightfully deserve to be there. After an early 11 game straight series with the Miami Marauders this season, people around the league (including myself) had doubts that the Hounds could continue their success when facing the rest of the teams in the VHLM. Those doubts were wrong, Mississauga has continued where they left off with Miami and dominated through the rest of S81. Vasile Lamb @dlamb made everyone understand why he was drafted 2nd overall in the S81 Dispersal Draft, leading the league in goals and finishing second in points. His partner in crime and line mate Kakapo Bushtit @Esso2264  carried his own weight this season finishing 3 points shy of 100. On the back end, the main source of Lamb's goals was James Teekirque @Mongoose87 who accomplished 85 assists this season and lead all defensemen in points, also being the only defenseman to reach 100 points this season. Mississauga wins the totally made up top 3 players award, having all three players sit in the top 5 for league points. These scoring stars don't take any shine away from capped TPE goaltender Miervaldis Arpa @Zack though. Arpa had an impressive season and finished tied for first in wins for goalies. The San Diego Marlins may not be the favorites in this series, but they do have a lot of talent to help them take down the Hounds. Although the Marlins don't have any top scorers like Mississauga, they do have a wider range of scorers with 5 skaters reaching a point per game. the great jr @Jake Sumner, Christopher Young @Laflamme, and Johnny Xavier @Johnny_HX all achieved this goal and led the Marlins offense going into these playoffs. An honorable mention would be The Board Game Clue On Skates @MubbleFubbles who put up 69 points this season. The point per game players don't stop there, Nikita Eklund @Ekky, and Maxwell Mathias @Underclass_Hero lead the Marlins in scoring this season as the top defensemen on the team. San Diego has powerful top 5 players who will all be key factors in determining the outcome of this series. Capped TPE goaltender Bubbles Utonium @fishy will also play a role in this series. Utonium had an impressive stat line this season and will be the last piece to the puzzle for the Marlins success. With both teams having capped goalies, scoring talents, and depth, this matchup in my eyes will be closer than the 5-1 season record between these teams. If Mississauga's top dogs come out to play, the Marlins will be struggling; if the Marlins can hold them back, they will find success in this series.
 
Mississauga wins this series 4-2.
 
 
Round 2
 
 
 (1) Ottawa Lynx vs.  (4) Mississauga Hounds
 
The first matchup of the second round will see the Ottawa Lynx face off against the Mississauga Hounds. These teams met nine times throughout S81 with Ottawa winning five out of nine games. I feel as if the close season matchup will repeat itself this series. Ottawa is an absolute power house with 11 of their players being TPE capped and their worst player having 111 TPE, their backup goalie. Mississauga is also a very strong team when it comes to their star players. Vasile Lamb up front and James Teekirque on the back end could be a huge problem that Ottawa will have to face. Although we have seen this story before, the S80 playoffs had the number one seed Yukon Rush up against the fifth seed Halifax 21st in the second round. Yukon had a team similar to Ottawa with insane depth and a lot of TPE capped players, Halifax had a team similar to Mississauga with a couple top players who all lead the league in scoring through the regular season. The outcome was a 4-0 series sweep for the Yukon Rush. At the end of the day, it is impossible to count out Ottawa from this series, but Mississauga has been able to figure them out this season and maybe they can do the same in these playoffs.
 
Ottawa wins this series 4-2.
 
 
 (2) Las Vegas Aces vs.  (3) Houston Bulls
 
The second matchup of the second round involves the Las Vegas Aces taking on the Houston Bulls. These teams met ten times throughout S81 with Houston winning seven out of ten games. Something to mention is that in seven of these Houston wins, three of them went to a shootout. So taking the shootout games away, (since obviously there are no shootouts in playoffs) the Bulls won four out of seven games against the Aces. Besides that, the Houston Bulls have for sure shown their dominance over Las Vegas this season. The Bulls had been ranked above the Aces all season until late when Las Vegas passed them in the standings for second seed. This series will be a dog fight as both teams own the best two goalies in the league - Juha Jarvinen for Houston and Thomas Price for Las Vegas. As well, while Houston has more depth, Las Vegas has more scoring stars. If Houston can stop Alex TheGreat's point domination and figure Price out, then the Bulls should be skating their way to the Founder's Cup final. But like the Houston/Philadelphia series, if Jarvinen doesn't play, Las Vegas might see themselves in the finals.
 
Houston wins this series 4-3.
 
 
Founder's Cup Finals
 
 
 (1) Ottawa Lynx vs.  (3) Houston Bulls
 
The Founder's Cup series should see the 1st ranked Ottawa Lynx meet up with the 3rd ranked Houston Bulls. As for power rankings, these are the top two teams in the league so it makes sense that they would see each other in the finals. These teams met six times throughout S81 with the series even at three wins for each team. Predicting this series is hard as the regular season series between these teams was tied, and both teams have amazing rosters. But stated many times before in this article, Ottawa is too good. Everything about their roster makes you think that they are hands down the best team and will win the cup, it's been known since the very first game this season. In Houston's case, they have the talented players, they have players that can score, and their one up on Ottawa is their goaltender being statistically the best goalie in the league. I doubted Ottawa last playoffs in S80 when they ended up winning the Founder's Cup, but this time around it's too hard to look past what they've built this season and the assets they bring to the table.
 
Ottawa wins this series 4-2.
 
 
 
Finally, I asked the GMs of the VHLM a couple of questions for their thoughts heading into the S81 playoffs.
 
Which team has the best chance at winning the Founder's Cup?
 
Ottawa (6), Las Vegas (2)
 
Which team(s) would be considered an underdog?
 
Philadelphia (4), San Diego (4), Mexico City (1)
 
Which team(s) will pull off a sweep?
 
Ottawa (6), Las Vegas (6), Houston (3), Philadelphia (1)
 
Which team(s) do you not want to have to face in the playoffs?
 
Ottawa (4), Mississauga (2), Las Vegas (1), Philadelphia (1), San Diego (1), None (2)
 
Will Ottawa go back-to-back this season?
 
Yes (4), No (3), Maybe (1)
 
 
 

1. How do you feel about the team now that  Scotty and Igor in the locker room now?
I feel pretty good about the team. We just got stronger and new faces can spark a flame in us.
2. What's your favorite Christmas tradition (or if you don't celebrate it what's your favorite tradition around this time?)
I don’t really have a tradition, but I love getting to see my family.
3. How are you spending the holiday break?
By doing nothing and eating too much food.
4. Are you excited for 2022? Yes I am. Let’s hope it’s better than 2021.
5. Thoughts on the frontrunners to get Chychrun being the Flames and Bruins?
Good for them I guess. Both teams would benefit adding him to their lineup, but I don’t think it would immediately make them a larger contender for the cup.
6. Would you rather play tic tac toe or rock paper scissors to win a million dollars?
Tic Tac Toe. I can’t leave it to chance.

1. How do you feel about the team now that  Scotty and Igor in the locker room now?
I feel pretty good about the team. We just got stronger and new faces can spark a flame in us.
2. What's your favorite Christmas tradition (or if you don't celebrate it what's your favorite tradition around this time?)
I don’t really have a tradition, but I love getting to see my family.
3. How are you spending the holiday break?
By doing nothing and eating too much food.
4. Are you excited for 2022? Yes I am. Let’s hope it’s better than 2021.
5. Thoughts on the frontrunners to get Chychrun being the Flames and Bruins?
Good for them I guess. Both teams would benefit adding him to their lineup, but I don’t think it would immediately make them a larger contender for the cup.
6. Would you rather play tic tac toe or rock paper scissors to win a million dollars?
Tic Tac Toe. I can’t leave it to chance.

1. How do you feel about the team's performance coming into the trade deadline? I think the team has been doing pretty well. There are some very strong teams in this league and I think we have been able to stand our ground against them.
2. How do you feel about your player's performance coming into the trade deadline? I think my player has played quite well. He isn't getting superstar numbers, but he is producing well and contributing to our wins.
3. What is the best post game meal? The best post game meal is some chicken alfredo. Heavy and puts me right to sleep.
4. Johnny Xavier was seen being swarmed by women after a recent win. Thoughts? (and Johnny when you answer this what happened?) Well, when fans want an autograph I need to deliver. They were just some fans of the team and they seemed to take a liking to me. Though, one of them asked me to go back to their place with their friends, but I had practice in the morning, so I told them maybe some other time.
5. Whatever NHL team you cheer for, how do you feel about their play recently? Sadly, I cheer for the Montreal Canadiens. With the injuries they have been getting all year, and just poor performance, I am hoping for any form of a spark that may help them crack a wild card spot.
6. What is your dream VHL team to play for? I would love to play for any team, but my dream team is the Helsinki Titans.

1. How do you feel about the team's performance coming into the trade deadline? I think the team has been doing pretty well. There are some very strong teams in this league and I think we have been able to stand our ground against them.
2. How do you feel about your player's performance coming into the trade deadline? I think my player has played quite well. He isn't getting superstar numbers, but he is producing well and contributing to our wins.
3. What is the best post game meal? The best post game meal is some chicken alfredo. Heavy and puts me right to sleep.
4. Johnny Xavier was seen being swarmed by women after a recent win. Thoughts? (and Johnny when you answer this what happened?) Well, when fans want an autograph I need to deliver. They were just some fans of the team and they seemed to take a liking to me. Though, one of them asked me to go back to their place with their friends, but I had practice in the morning, so I told them maybe some other time.
5. Whatever NHL team you cheer for, how do you feel about their play recently? Sadly, I cheer for the Montreal Canadiens. With the injuries they have been getting all year, and just poor performance, I am hoping for any form of a spark that may help them crack a wild card spot.
6. What is your dream VHL team to play for? I would love to play for any team, but my dream team is the Helsinki Titans.

1. What do you think this team needs to get to make us more of a contender? I think we need to have more offensive chances. Need to put the puck in the net.
2. Are we at the point where we sell for picks next season or go all in for this season and try to turn it around? We shouldn't give up yet. We have a good team and I know we have a shot.
3. Who is the hardest player to play against at practice? Marshall Maxx. He likes to hit and he hits hard.
4. GM JB was again spotted at the San Diego Zoo, this time having what seemed like an urgent conversation with some dolphins. Thoughts? Must have been an important topic. Hopefully they weren't trying to hit on a dolphin.
5. If JB goes back to the Zoo do you have something you want him to tell the sea life there? Do you ever get thirsty? Just curious.
6. Does pineapple go on pizza? I don't personally think so, but I don't judge.

1. What do you think this team needs to get to make us more of a contender? I think we need to have more offensive chances. Need to put the puck in the net.
2. Are we at the point where we sell for picks next season or go all in for this season and try to turn it around? We shouldn't give up yet. We have a good team and I know we have a shot.
3. Who is the hardest player to play against at practice? Marshall Maxx. He likes to hit and he hits hard.
4. GM JB was again spotted at the San Diego Zoo, this time having what seemed like an urgent conversation with some dolphins. Thoughts? Must have been an important topic. Hopefully they weren't trying to hit on a dolphin.
5. If JB goes back to the Zoo do you have something you want him to tell the sea life there? Do you ever get thirsty? Just curious.
6. Does pineapple go on pizza? I don't personally think so, but I don't judge.

1. What do you think this team needs to get to make us more of a contender? I think we need to have more offensive chances. Need to put the puck in the net.
2. Are we at the point where we sell for picks next season or go all in for this season and try to turn it around? We shouldn't give up yet. We have a good team and I know we have a shot.
3. Who is the hardest player to play against at practice? Marshall Maxx. He likes to hit and he hits hard.
4. GM JB was again spotted at the San Diego Zoo, this time having what seemed like an urgent conversation with some dolphins. Thoughts? Must have been an important topic. Hopefully they weren't trying to hit on a dolphin.
5. If JB goes back to the Zoo do you have something you want him to tell the sea life there? Do you ever get thirsty? Just curious.
6. Does pineapple go on pizza? I don't personally think so, but I don't judge.

1. We are smack in the middle of the league in 5th place, what can we do as a team to really get to that next level? We have stay consistent and grow as a team. We have a strong team and I think we are ready to charge.
2. How are you feeling about your season so far? I think my season has been going pretty well. I am supporting my team and playing well on both sides of the ice. I plan on keeping that up.
3. What is your pregame routine? I always take a pregame bathroom trip. It helps me feel light.
4. Is there any teammates superstitions that you have seen or almost interfered with? No. I try to stay focused a few minutes before the game, making sure I don't bother someone during their rituals.
5. Erik White, Budnik McDangle, and Brian Payne all were seen parading the streets of San Diego singing Christmas carols while very drunk after the win against Las Vegas, any thoughts? That is what I like to hear! I'm upset I wasn't there with them. 
6. Is a hot dog a sandwich? Absolutely not. If anything, its a breaded taco. Controversial I know.

Welcome to the S81 VHLM Power Rankings Tracker! Power rankings will be shown in this format for the rest of the season so that I will be able to update it every week. With this format we will be able to showcase standout players (selected by each team's GM or AGM) in order to shine a light on some players in the VHLM who might not get much attention otherwise. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please let me know!
 
NOTE: Stats and Standings are updated as of Sunday, November, 28th.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 1
Record: 8 - 1 - 1
Last 10 Games:  8 - 1 - 1
Place in Standings: 2
Standout Player(s): Adeline Delle Donne @Dtayl - 10 goals, 6 assists, 16 points in 10 games played
 
The Las Vegas Aces have been defying the odds set by most of the league and even myself. I don't believe most people thought they would be doing so well. Veteran defenseman Patric Twist @Patty, centremen Alex TheGreat @Alex Thegreat and Adeline Delle Donne, and winger Cooper Skambraks @CSkams15 have all been leading the way for the Aces success with S80 Founder's Cup finalist, Thomas Price @Thunderidge, shutting it down in between the pipes. With some STHS luck and the great core of players they have, Las Vegas could see themselves sitting with the top competitors for the remainder of S81.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 2
Record: 9 - 1 - 0
Last 10 Games: 9 - 1 - 0
Place in Standings: 1
Standout Player: Milan Dvorak @solas - 9 goals, 5 assists, 14 points in 10 games played
 
Now I may get some hate for putting my team above Ottawa but bare with me. Ottawa on paper is the best team in the league, but 7 out of 10 of their games played have been against under .500 teams, with their only loss being to one of those teams. Either way, Ottawa has been on a tear lately leading the league standings and most team stats. Ottawa has a very impressive defensive core with S80 Playoffs MVP Matty Live @Mattylive3k, partner Milan Dvorak, and Max Torq @Steve all contributing for the Lynx's blue line and in stats. Jason Lajeunesse @ThatCanadian has been giving the forwards their shine and both Ed Nu @npuBeT and Wumbo @Fire Vigneault have been standing on their heads in net for Ottawa. The Lynx shouldn't be ranked at number two for much longer.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 3
Record: 7 - 3 - 0
Last 10 Games: 7 - 3 - 0
Place in Standings: 4
Standout Player: Dylan Dubnyk @ThatsGreissy - 5 wins, 0.912 SV%, 2.34 GAA in 5 games played
 
The Houston Bulls have been living up to expectations. Houston has a very deep roster consisting of top line forwards Mikhail Lospenov @Gretzky didnt lift da puck, Ashton Komaryk @Komaryk, and Ernie King Jr @Greg Ernest leading the way for the Bulls. Second line centreman Charlie @Bigchuck01 has been a key factor in this success as well. For the back half of the team, Mikhail Kovalchuk @Banackock, Houston's biggest waiver signing, has made their impact strong on the league. Standout player Dylan Dubnyk has been the last piece to the puzzle, with 5 wins in 5 games starts and being in the top of the league for SV% and GAA. Houston is projected to be a top 3 team all season.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 4
Record: 7 - 3 - 0
Last 10 Games: 7 - 3 - 0
Place in Standings: 3
Standout Player: Vasile Lamb @dlamb - 12 goals, 10 assists, 22 points in 10 games played
 
Mississauga sits in a situation like Ottawa, third in the standings but not third on the rankings. The reasoning for this is because the Hounds have seen the Miami Marauders, a team projected to not perform very well this season, 6 times out of the 10 games played. Looking past that, the Mississauga Hounds have their big names shining so far this season. S81 2nd overall pick, Vasile Lamb, has been destroying the league, leading in points and goals. Igor Zubov @Russianmenice, Big Bob @M0XI, and Big Eli @Elijah (Fong's Son) have all been taking care of their blue line duties as well as putting their names on the score sheet. In the crease, Miervaldis Arpa @16z has seen the majority of games and has an impressive 7 wins in 9 starts.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 5
Record: 6 - 3 - 1
Last 10 Games: 6 - 3 - 1
Place in Standings: 5
Standout Player: The Board Game Clue On Skates @MubbleFubbles - 7 goals, 7 assists, 14 points in 10 games played
 
San Diego has been a middle of the pack team to start the season, but this could easily change soon. The Marlins have an insanely strong core with waiver players to fill out their roster. The Board Game Clue On Skates has been a stud so far, helping their team find success early. Line mates Christopher Young @Laflamme and Johnny Xavier @Johnny_HX are right behind on the stat sheet to lead the way. San Diego's defense have been the real MVPs for the team with Nikita Eklund @Ekky, Tavish DeGroot @rory, Marshall Maxx @lemonan, and Maxwell Mathias @Underclass_Hero all accomplishing over a point per game. I really do believe that as the season goes on, San Diego can find themselves in the top 3.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 6
Record: 6 - 4 - 0
Last 10 Games: 6 - 4 - 0
Place in Standings: 6
Standout Player: Juha Jarvinen @Collusion - 5 wins, 0.913 SV%, 2.55 GAA in 7 games played
 
The Philadelphia Reapers are still finding their way, currently 3rd in the East only 2 points behind Mississauga. Capped TPE goalie Juha Jarvinen has been a huge contributor for the Reapers, sitting in the top 5 in the league for SV% and GAA. Sebastien dokis @Sebastien and Logan Clark @logansgc have been giving the Reapers a chance in games as well, being the only two skaters with a point per game or more. With time, Philadelphia will find more wins, but at the moment they are just a mid tier team.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 7
Record: 2 - 8 - 0
Last 10 Games: 2 - 8 - 0
Place in Standings: 7
Standout Player: Bob Vladovechsenkchushkin @Grape - 4 goals, 5 assists, 9 points in 10 games played
 
The Saskatoon Wild sit in a spot where the league starts to lose parity, being the first team of four with a losing record. All around, the Wild have been struggling to find much success. Although a massive win came for Saskatoon in their 7th game, taking down the top team in the league, the Ottawa Lynx. This does show that Saskatoon can compete with the league, but as for now they are just finding their stride.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 8
Record: 2 - 8 - 0
Last 10 Games: 2 - 8 - 0
Place in Standings: 8
Standout Player: Maximilien Gaudreau @Icelantel - 2 goals, 8 assists, 10 points in 10 games played
 
Like Saskatoon, the Miami Marauders are having a tough start to the season. A main reason for this would be the schedule Miami faces as they are currently participating in a 10 game straight series against the Mississauga Hounds. 6 out of 10 games played for the Marauders so far have been against the Hounds. Even with this tough schedule, Jeremy D @lioneatingsnail and Maximilien Gaudreau have been finding ways to produce. Both skaters lead their team in points and have a point per game. Miami could definitely bounce back after this long series against the Hounds, but for now they just have to push through and find success where they can.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 9
Record: 1 - 8 - 1
Last 10 Games: 1 - 8 - 1
Place in Standings: 9
Standout Player: Boris Tsezar @comrade cat - 0.883 SV%, 3.98 GAA, 1 SO in 8 games played
 
As projected, Mexico City isn't doing too well. With an underdeveloped team made up of waiver players, I believe the main goal for this season is to get better and learn from every game that passes. A positive to this season would be Ronan Lavelle's @Arce ability to produce, leading the Kings in points with a 6 goal, 6 assist stat line in 10 games played. Boris Tsezar has been the backbone to the Kings as well, having this strong goaltender in net has been the difference between close games and blow outs. With some more development as the season goes on, I believe Mexico City can find themselves a playoff spot.
 
 

 
Current Rank: 10
Record: 1 - 8 - 1
Last 10 Games: 1 - 8 - 1
Place in Standings: 10
Standout Player: Nic McMuffin @Ente2997 - 2 goals, 6 assists, 8 points in 10 games played
 
The award for the biggest under performing team goes to the Halifax 21st, but they have a fair excuse. The 21st have seen a tough schedule so far, facing off against the strong league favorite Ottawa Lynx five times out of ten games. As Halifax sees different teams throughout the season, I believe their record should improve. Players to help their success grow will be S80 6th overall pick Nagy AL @bigAL, who leads Halifax in points and is the top defenseman on the team. Nic McMuffin and Ariane Leblanc @Horcrux have also been able to find life for Halifax as they go through this rough start to the season. As stated before, Halifax should be able to compete as the season goes on, but for now they own the last spot on these power rankings.
 
 
Current Team Versus Standings
 
 
  Halifax Houston Las Vegas Mexico City Miami Mississauga Ottawa Philadelphia San Diego Saskatoon Halifax   0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 4 - 1 0 - 2 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 Houston 0 - 0 - 0   1 - 2 - 0 2 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 2 - 0 - 0 Las Vegas 0 - 0 - 0 2 - 0 - 1   3 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 2 - 0 - 0 Mexico City 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 1 0 - 3 - 0   0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 Miami 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0   1 - 5 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 Mississauga 1 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 5 - 1 - 0   0 - 1 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 Ottawa 5 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0   1 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 Philadelphia 2 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 0 - 1 - 0   1 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 San Diego 1 - 0 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0 0 - 0 - 1   1 - 0 - 0 Saskatoon 0 - 0 - 0 0 - 2 - 0 0 - 2 - 0 1 - 1 - 0 0 - 0 - 1 0 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 1 - 0 - 0 0 - 1 - 0  

C - the great jr #99 @Jake Sumner
A - Johnny Xavier #82 @Johnny_HX
A - Tavish DeGroot #1 @rory

We held a team vote. Both the great jr and Johnny Xavier were alternates last season, with DeGroot joining the team this season. Congrats to all three of you, and if you weren’t chosen, you can still lead!! #Fillthetank #Marlins 

INDEX
 
@VHLM GM Please review your rosters and make sure your lines are in for tomorrow! If you see anything wrong with the index let me know as soon as possible so I can have it fixed.
 
As Bek said: "To send in your lines please use the Team Management section of the portal. The process for downloading the client file and using STHS to make your lines is still the same, and if you have manual requests due to waiver pick ups or other roster changes please PM me your notes.  Either discord or forum PM is fine."
 
Live sims will all be on YouTube on the following channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnvyyltNdRxKljanSti1aZw

Just wait till Miami shocks everyone Mia Khalifa our defenseman is gonna pop off