Shindigs

Very underwhelming road rage at the end. I am disappoint. But this is turning into a nice inception of a rule break within the penalty of another rule break.

Hello all @Members!
 
Another absolutely amazing charity drive has come and gone, our largest one yet! The total amount donated through the league was $2063.04 (CAD) to which the league will add an additional $1000 which means both SickKids and St.Jude’s will be receiving $1531.52! We’ll be making that donation shortly.
 
But wait, I said this was our biggest donation drive ever didn’t I? Well that’s because the above does NOT count all the amazing direct contributions people made. Add those in and, even without the league’s $1000 matching, we raised a total of $3607.73!
 
That means of course that we have some amazing rewards for everyone! All of our reward tiers were hit which means everyone can claim 20 uncapped TPE plus a PT doubles week! To claim just link to this post, you can claim all the 20 at once and the doubles week can be claimed with any PT made between now and the end of January 2023.
 

 
Of course you can! Hitting all those tiers also means we get some bonus gifts from myself, @nurx, @Phil, and @DarkSpyro so get ready for some ridiculous streams and things in the new year. We’ll get the dates for their drops figured out and added to the events calendar soon.
 
Speaking of adding things to the events calendar: I’ll be streaming the results of the 12 days raffle sometime in the coming weeks so I’ll let you all know when that’s gonna be.
 
Thank you to everyone for once again making the VHL holiday season an amazing time and for your great donations to worthwhile causes. Go and enjoy your TPE and we’ll see you later today for sims!
 
- @Commissioner
 
Edit: It has been pointed out that math and I don’t get along well, I have corrected the post to 20 uncapped as it should have been rather than the 18 I originally said.

1. I make sure all my #blamecole are ready and warmed up. Just in case.
2. Pretty much all comes down to how many times I've chanted #blamecole in front of the statue of the Burger King outside the LR.
3. I did not, because all I want for Christmas is #blamecole.
4. Very hyped about the possibility of outcomes that allow for me to #blamecole. And I'm in banking mode for the rest of the career now.
5. I'm not, and I wholly #blamecole for this. Not that I've ever played for Mexico, but still. It seems only fair.
6. All I want for Christmas is #blamecole by the one and only Mariah Coley.

Moscow losing in the finals is a bit of a cop out prediction seeing as it has 100% success rate.😅

Moscow losing in the finals is a bit of a cop out prediction seeing as it has 100% success rate.😅

Moscow losing in the finals is a bit of a cop out prediction seeing as it has 100% success rate.😅

Moscow losing in the finals is a bit of a cop out prediction seeing as it has 100% success rate.😅

Moscow losing in the finals is a bit of a cop out prediction seeing as it has 100% success rate.😅

Moscow losing in the finals is a bit of a cop out prediction seeing as it has 100% success rate.😅

@leandrofg
 
Welcome to VSN’s VHL playoff preview and predictions, in this article we’ll break down each series and discuss what players could be key to turning the tide of the series and potentially pulling off an upset. This was truly an incredible season and we could be in for a few upsets in the playoffs. While you’re here be sure to check out some of the other recent VSN articles.
 
the "VHLE Math Show", a VHLE Playoff Picture Story | "An Ice Cream Story", a tale of the S87 Draft Class
 
Wildcard Series
 
London (4) vs. Davos (5)
 
In what was a rather disappointing season for Davos as they found their way quickly trending down the standings from 1st. London on the other hand had a very good season and kept up with the top teams in the EU. In the season series both teams won 3 games so this could be a very tight series that could very much come down to goaltending with both teams having elite starting goaltenders with Xavier Booberry @CowboyinAmerica and David Davis @Josh. While on paper Davos may appear as the stronger team their offense is heavily reliant on 50 goal scorer James Teekirque @Mongoose87, and their 2 elite defensemen in Siyan Yasilievich @badcolethetitan and Jake Thunder @Thunder. For London they will be needing Hari Singh Nalwa @Dil to continue their play and for Molly the Cat @JCarson to take another step forward. This could be a very close series, but we have London edging out Davos. Below is our original prediction but the next round has been edited to reflect recent results.
 
Prediction: London in 5
VSN vote: LDN 9 DAV 6
 
Vancouver (4) vs. Seattle (5)
 
Possibly one of the most interesting matchups we will see this playoffs as the two teams were expected to be at opposite ends of the standings at the start of the season. In the regular season Vancouver won 4 of the 6 games, including a 6-1 win in the most recent game. Seattle will need Dusty Wilson @dustywilson22 to stand on his head and for their offense to produce on an elite level to advance past the Wolves. Vancouver on the other hand should by all means make quick work of Seattle, their offense is just simply too strong. We could be in for a quick series, but there is potential for one of the biggest upsets in recent history.
 
Prediction: Vancouver in 4
VSN vote: VAN 7 SEA 4
 
Conference Semi-Finals
 
Chicago (2) vs. D.C. (3)
 
The defending Continental Cup champions have a bit of an uphill battle again this season. In the regular season series it was all Chicago with them winning 4 of the 6 matchups in spectacular fashion. This was mostly on the back of Bo Johansson @Shindigs and Baby Bob @Baby Boomer, both of whom led the VHL in assists and goals respectively. D.C. on the other hand will be needing S85 playoff MVP Ronan Lavelle @Arce to take the league by storm yet again and reach another level in the postseason, Bubbles Utonium @fishy will also need to be on top of their game in order to stifle the Chicago offense. While D.C. could potentially come out on top in this series we believe that Chicago could just be too much to handle.
 
Prediction: Chicago in 6
VSN vote: CHI 11 DCD 3
 
Calgary (1) vs. Vancouver(4)
 
Possibly what could be the most interesting series of maybe the entire playoffs, Calgary and Vancouver are two of the most evenly matched teams in the league and either team could take the series. In the regular season it was all Calgary with them winning 5 of the 6 games. Primarily due to their ability to really shut down Vancouver’s offense in part thanks to AirRig Good BrandSun’s @Rhynex Entertainment incredible defensive play. For Vancouver they are going to need to figure out a way to best Calgary’s defense and goaltender, that starts with Sergey Preobrazhensky @Bulduray_1 and Alexandre Leduc @Lemorse7. This should be a series to keep an eye on and should come down to the wire.
 
Prediction: Calgary in 7
VSN vote: CGY 11 VAN 3
 
Warsaw (2) vs. Prague (3)
 
Prague took a big step forward this season when GM @acyd decided to buy just about everyone in the offseason bringing in Saku Kotkakoivu @DollarAndADream , Erlantz Jokinen @jRuutu, Nils Godlander @Moon, and more, the massive addition to Prague already solid core has the potential to push Prague all the way to the Cup. Warsaw on the other hand may just be having their last run with their current core as the majority of the roster is a UFA after this season. Warsaw’s offense has carried them consistently over the past few seasons and Girts Galvins @Girts was the driving force this time around with 54 goals and 55 assists for 109 points. Brendan Marner @MetalToday also produced well with 113 points, 47 of which were goals. This series could be a tight one, but Prague may just be able to limit Warsaw’s offense and then tear them apart.
 
Prediction: Prague in 7
VSN vote: WAR 5 PRG 9
 
Moscow (1) vs. Davos (5)
 
Moscow is still the top team in the European conference despite the majority of players that led them to their cup finals appearances in the early 80s now being retired. The main reason for this is Papa Emeritus @Beketov and the spectacular defensive play from AK92 Wit Da Hoodie @hedgehog337. This series could be closer than anticipated as the teams are fairly even on paper, although Moscow won 4 of the 5 regular season games. If Davos is to stand a chance they will need their forward core to really get to Papa Emeritus and that all starts with their first line of James Teekirque, Mason Jones @Masu Chan, and Sunrise Van De Schubbekuteveen @Thunfish. With that being said Moscow wins this one.
 
Prediction: Moscow in 5
VSN vote: MOS 5 DAV 2 (Original vote: MOS 14 LDN 1 (ONLY @nurx))
 
Conference Finals
 
Calgary (1) vs. Chicago (2)
 
I feel like this series has been talked about all season, Calgary and Chicago were in a tight race throughout the season for the #1 seed in the North American Conference. This series really has the potential to be an offensive battle with both teams having players that can produce on an elite level with Daniel Janser @Daniel Janser and Baby Bob. With that being said the best chance Chicago has to win this series is Cole Pearce @N0HBDY who was spectacular this season. In the regular season Calgary won 3 of the 5 games, and with that in mind, we have Calgary advancing to the finals.
 
Prediction: Calgary in 7
VSN vote: CGY 9 CHI 4
 
Moscow (1) vs. Prague (3)
 
This series we have here could be very interesting as Prague is without a doubt the most improved team from last season, while Moscow will be looking to finally win a cup after being one of the best teams in the league over the course of the past 10 seasons. Moscow took the season's series 4-2, although it is important to note that each game was only won by 1 goal. With that being said Moscow has had a considerable roster change since the last time these 2 teams played… Nico Pearce @Spartan is back in Moscow and has been on fire with 52 points in 42 games played with Moscow this season, this could be the factor that puts Moscow over the top this season and at least should get them past Prague. Prague will likely be reliant on Clueless Wallob @DMaximus this series as he could be getting peppered with shots. Moscow will likely win this nailbiter of a series in quick fashion with a series of very close games.
 
Prediction: Moscow in 5
VSN vote: MOS 10 PRG 2
 
Continental Cup Finals
 
Calgary (1) vs. Moscow (1)
 
This is a place where Moscow is all too familiar having made it to 5 of the last 6 Continental Cup Finals. Calgary on the other hand will be making their return to the finals for the first time since S72. However Moscow won their 1st and only Continental Cup in S70, when they crushed the hopes of Wrangler fans everywhere by winning the series in 6. Both these teams are absolutely stacked, but it is worth considering how Calgary’s offense has just smothered teams all season with Daniel Janser, Leandro Goncalves @leandrofg, and Landon Wolanin @jacobcarson877 all being above a point per game which is truly impressive. Moscow will be reliant on their defense as they have been for most if the season which is centered around Hammar Voss @BOOM and AK92 Wit Da Hoodie. This should be an incredible series that could really go either way. We have Calgary taking the win here and winning their first cup since S62.
 
Prediction: Calgary in 7
VSN vote: CGY 7 MOS 4
 
Thank you to everyone for reading and best of luck to each and every team in the playoffs! If you have any predictions of your own feel free to post them in the comments.
 

Hello @Members!
 
First off, great job all with the charity auction and what has been raised thus fair with the donation drive! We’re going to be tallying everything up soon but I would wager we’ve done very well from what I’ve seen and it should be a large donation to some great causes yet again! Raffle entries wrap up tomorrow and I’ll be doing the draw for those prizes a little after Christmas most likely.
 
Now to the matter at hand. Obviously myself and the other members of the @Simmer crew don’t take a lot of vacations or breaks. Daily sims are honestly one of the great things that sets the VHL apart.l, however we are still human and it is still Christmas, playoffs or not. For that reason I would like to point out that there will be no sims on the 25th or 26th so the simming team can spend some time with family instead of you all, as much as we love you. I hope you all can understand.
 
So, sims will run tomorrow and Saturday but will only resume on Tuesday after that regardless of what stage the playoffs are at.
 
Thank You,
@Commissioner

#blamecole at least you got MoscoL losing in the finals right (most likely).

Me neither. Despite indisputably being Cole's fault, I fixed it for you. 

And I'm gonna keep that autocorrect as is

Graphic courtesy of Leandrofg
(Marcel's stats/Daniel's stats)
 
An other exciting regular season came to an end, where Calgary won the Victory Cup for the first time since the S75 season. They also have the best goal scorer as well as the best point producer in their ranks for the second consecutive season. A feat which was last achieved in the S34/35 season by a Wrangler (Chershenko and Wozniak respecively). Daniel is the first in the Red/White/Black who was able to repeat this success back-to-back. It is also of note that it is the first time in the league's history that there is a threeway tie on the goal scoring title with Galvins and Bob scoring 54 goals as well. Congratulations to this achievement.
Wolanin, Strasmore, M. Janser, Justice, GoodBrandSun and Vladovechsenkchushkin all showed improved offensive numbers and Gonçalves had to adapt to his new role first but scored more goals than last season.
 
Here are the Jansers' stats for the regular season:
Marcel: 72gp, 4g, 44a, 48pts, +11, 96 PIM, 124 hits, 125sb, 2ppg, 1 First Star Award
Daniel: 72gp, 54g, 66a, 120pts, +39, 118 PIM, 276 hits, 35sb, 11gwg, 8ppg, 62.90FO% and 17 First Star Awards
 
We had a chance to talk to the brothers in a pub in Calgary and here is what they had to say:
 
Jean-Luc Lieuxperroux (JLL): 'Marcel, Daniel, thanks for taking the time talking to us. The Wranglers do take home the Victory Cup. Do you feel a sense of achievement?'
Marcel (MJ): 'Hi Jean-Luc, nice to see you again. Well, yes and no. Yes, because we have proven to be the most consistent team in both conferences over a span of 72 games. No because that means nothing if you do not repeat the performance in the post-season.'
JLL: 'Daniel, the scoring race was neck-to-neck this season and for the last ten games or so you were trailing to Chicago's Bob and were even threatened to drop to third place by Bo Johansson. Were you worried that you may lose the race?'
Daniel (DJ): 'No, I wasn't. But not for the reasons you may think. I was not worried, because our team was performing well and consistently getting points. I do my best to help my team in any way possible. However, if I have a dry spell on the scoring sheet, but Calgary wins, that is fine for me. Honestly, I was not expecting to intercept Bob at the goal line, but my team wanted to give me that trophy so much, that they laid up for me left, right and center. Sometimes even refusing to shoot and instead pass to me for a tap-in, when they could easily have scored themselves. Of course, I reprimanded them for such risqué behaviour, but for once they did not heed my call.'
JLL: 'Wolanin fell short one point of a three digit number in this season. Was he heartbroken?'
MJ: 'If he was, he hid it well. He knows that he had an excellent season and carried the team in the first half where he scored a half a dozen game winners. He mentioned it feels a little unsatisfying to get a sniff at the 100 but not to get there. But as we all, the satisfaction to be a success as a team, outweighed whatever underachievement he felt in his own game. I am convinced he will get an other chance as he is still young and I do not see him getting worse anytime soon.'
JLL: 'Marcel, you have doubled your point production. Is this something you are proud of? Do you see anything you do not like on your score sheet.'
MJ: 'I mean it is always cool if you can double your production AND having success as a team. However, I scored less goals and none of them was a game winner. I also spent too much time in the sin-bin for my taste. I probably got carried away by Dan's beaming example of physical play and lost a little bit of my ways. Which probably reflected on the +/- rating as well. But all in all I am not unhappy about my performance. One finds always areas where one could improve still.'
JLL: 'We already heard from the rainbow press that the Wranglers are a hot candidate for the title. What is your take on it?'
DJ: 'Well, the scores are reset now and whatever one has achieved in the regular season does not bear any weight in the playoffs. Having said that, I believe in our team, and I think we have proven that we can beat any team in the league. Every match needs to be won first, though. We cannot lay back and think 'We have won the regular season, what can possibly go wrong?'. We need to work for our success, as every team who makes the playoffs have the same goal. To hoist the cup in their last game of the season. Lady Luck is a fickle deity and we need to do, what we can to make sure that we do not have to rely on her to win games.'
JLL: 'Gonçalves was the only star-player on the team to not exceed last years' production. Do you wish to comment on same?.'
MJ: 'I know that forwards are often measured by their goals and assists. There is nothing wrong with that per se, it is just not painting the whole picture. You see Leandro has scored two short handed goals for us this past season and had chances for a few more. The opposing teams have noted that and have to play more defensively in their power play to counter Leandro's speed. This impedes their chances to create opportunities and at the end of the day makes our job to kill penalties easier. One just does not like to take risks, if you know that the other team has a player on the ice, who just lurks for you to make a misplay and to profit from same. And let's not forget that switching from the wing back to center takes a while to settle in. All considered, I think Gonzo had an excellent season, even if it is not obvious to some who only look at the score sheet'
JLL: 'Okay that was all the questions I had. Thanks for your insight and good luck in the playoffs.'
DJ, MJ: Thanks for having us and take care.'
 
 
https://vhlforum.com/topic/130233-a-tale-of-two-brothers-quarter-and-diming/
https://vhlforum.com/topic/130353-a-tale-of-two-brothers-a-captains-disclaimer/
https://vhlforum.com/topic/130505-a-tale-of-two-brothers-halftime-summary/
https://vhlforum.com/topic/130553-a-tale-of-two-brothers-another-brick-in-the-wall/
https://vhlforum.com/topic/130908-a-tale-of-two-brothers-the-final-quarter-s86/
https://vhlforum.com/topic/130952-a-tale-of-two-brothers-the-final-stretch/
https://vhlforum.com/topic/131086-unofficial-vhl-s86-playoff-predictions/
 
 

Unofficial VHL S86 Playoff Predictions
 

 
**DISCLAIMER: I haven't really paid attention religiously to every single VHL team this season, and I am lacking on my knowledge about a lot of the NA teams. I just did this for fun so I hope everyone can enjoy!**
 
Wildcard Round:
 
 (4) Vancouver Wolves vs. (5) Seattle Bears
 
In the NA conference, we'll be seeing the Vancouver Wolves taking on the Seattle Bears in the wildcard round of the playoffs. The Vancouver Wolves come in at 43-27-2, which is good for 88 points and barely missing out on the third seed at the end of the season, by losing one of their final games and unfortunately sliding to the wild card. Regardless, Vancouver has found their way into the post-season led by defenseman Biggie Cheese, who has 85 points, 20 goals, and 65 assists to lead the team. Scoring is fount everywhere on this roster, as they have seven players over the twenty goal mark, so scoring really isn't a problem for the Wolves. Their goaltending is not too shabby in Brandt Fuhr, who held a 35-27-2 record, with a .918 sv% and a 2.59 GAA. The star player in this series for the Vancouver Wolves is certainly going to be Biggie Cheese and what he can bring to the team in the playoffs, coming off a hot regular season finish for him. On the other side, their opponents the Seattle Bears made it into the playoffs at the last second, scraping in because of goal differential. Seattle has had ups and downs during their season, but they are led by the dynamic duo of Tavish DeGroot and Hulk Hogan 2, who seem to be carrying the workload for the team. Their goaltending too is what got them here, as Dusty Wilson has a 30-29-3 record, with an impressive .934 sv% and a 2.22 GAA. The Bears will be relying on their duo to carry them in the wildcard round, as they don't really have the scoring depth that the Vancouver Wolves have in their arsenal. All in all, this should be an easy series for the Vancouver Wolves unless Dusty Wilson can steal Seattle a game.
 
Prediction:  3-1
 
 (4) London United vs. (5) HC Davos Dynamo
 
On the other side of the bracket, we have the London United taking on HC Davos Dynamo in the other wildcard round of the playoffs. London United had a better season than some anticipated, as they found themselves at 43-25-4, good for fourth in the already tough European Conference. This team is led by none other than Molly the Cat, as I'm pretty sure Dil literally has a shrine of Molly the Cat that he prays to every single night. This team has some pretty solid scoring depth too, as they've got five players with twenty goals or more, something you're going to have to have for a deep playoff run. On top of that, this team has had very good goaltending in the regular season, whether it be from David Davis or Jesse Teno, both have very good numbers. This team overall has a pretty solid lineup and I'd expect London to do some damage to Davos in this series. On the other side, we have the HC Davos Dynamo who were expected to be towards the top of the conference this season, but weren't able to get there. Davos has had a lots of ups and downs during this season, but they weren't able to stay consistent at the end of the day. Davos is led by Forward James Teekirque, who put up 50 goals on the season and also had 44 assists, impressive to say the least. They also have the one-two punch of Jake Thunder and Siyan Yasilievich who are going to provide a challenge for London, however they don't have the scoring depth as much as London does. On top of that, Xavier Booberry had an off-season, going 35-22-7 between the pipes with a 0.926 sv% and a 2.52 GAA. This series in my eyes will be much closer than the other wildcard series, and I could honestly see either team taking at the end of the day. However, with how much Davos has a curse on them and they consistently choking, I'll be giving it over to London to move on.
 
Prediction:  3-2
 
NA Conference Semifinals:
 
 (1) Calgary Wranglers vs. (4) Vancouver Wolves
 
Now we finally move onto the real playoffs! The Calgary Wranglers will be taking on the Vancouver Wolves in the NA Conference Semifinals and I think this'll be a pretty entertaining series. Looking at Calgary, they've had an unbelievable season, especially Daniel Janser who had 54 goals, 66 assists and a 120 points. When I say this team is absolutely stacked, they are extremely stacked, with having three players above ninety points, and having four point-per-game players. Ben Dahl in net has also provided some stable goaltending, he isn't a superstar goalie, but he gets the job done and that's what Calgary realistically needs. This team has great players across the board and they're going to be tough to beat at the end of the day. I've already covered Vancouver a bit, but they'll need their forwards to step up big time if they want to be able to take down and upset Calgary. With the likes of Daniel Janser and Landon Wolanin leading the way, I think this'll be a series win for the Wranglers.
 
Prediction:  4-1
 
 (2) Chicago Phoenix vs. (3) D.C. Dragons
 
Heading to the other side, we've got the Chicago Phoenix taking on the D.C. Dragons in the NA Conference Semifinals! Now, I am pretty excited for this series because I think it's going to be an absolute banger and here's why, starting with Chicago. Chicago coming into this is absolutely star-studded with offense, with their three superstars being Baby Bob, Bo Johansson, and Scotty Sundin. This trio does a ton of the heavy lifting for Chicago, but it's not to say that other players on the team don't do their job also. The Board Game Clue on Skates also has to be talked about, as they put up 42 goals, 37 assists, good for 79 points on the season. I think the most impressive player on this team though in my opinion is Bo Johansson, who has put up 94 assists in the regular season, an impressive feat to say nevertheless. They've also got star goaltending Cole Pearce in net, who went 43-18-3, with a .933 sv% and a 2.05 GAA. I really like what Chicago has going for them and I think they have the potential to go far, but let's talk about the D.C. Dragons next. D.C. comes in as the 3rd seed, and with good reason. They're led by Ronan Lavelle, who put up 51 goals on the season and 43 assists, good for 94 points on the year. This team seems to have some great forwards, as they have four forwards who are above that 84 point mark, but after that it seems to fall off hard in the point production. On top of that, they have Bubbles Utonium in net, who went 35-21-8 with a 0.923 sv% and a 2.54 GAA in net, a goaltending duel is for sure going to take place! At the end of the day though, I think Chicago's offense is going to be too much for D.C. to handle and they'll unfortunately bite the dust in the first round.
 
Prediction:  4-2
 
EU Conference Semifinals:
 
(1) Moscow Menace vs. (4) London United
 
Now we're heading over to the EU, where the Moscow Menace will be taking the London United on in the first round of the playoffs. Moscow coming in has shown that they consistently can stay at the top of the EU conference and it's a masterclass by Spartan. This team has scoring depth across the board, not really relying on a superstar to do most of the heavy loading. You could basically pick out any player on the roster and say that they're an important part of Moscow, because that's just how their team is built. However, their team leading in points was Tomas Sogaard putting up 32 goals, 48 assists, good for 80 points on the season. In net, they have the one and only Papa Emeritus, who in his last season went 43-17-4 with a 0.929 sv% and a 2.46 GAA, very solid between the pipes. London will have some games under their belt heading into this series, but I don't really think they can stand up to the titans that are the Moscow Menace in the playoffs. This team has shown time and time again that they're going to go to the finals, one way or another and sadly London is in their path. Moscow should be able to take down London pretty easily in my eyes and should be eyeing at minimum heading to the EU conference finals.
 
Prediction:  4-1
 
 (2) Warsaw Predators vs. (3) Prague Phantoms
 
The final series for the EU Conference Semifinals is the Warsaw Predators taking on the Prague Phantoms. I personally think out of every single series in this round, this one will be the closest, but lets start with talking about the Warsaw Predators. The Warsaw Predators have found themselves in the playoffs as the 2nd seed, under N0HBDY with his first regular season under the belt. Warsaw is all about offense, and scoring goals, attempting to outscore their opponent in high scoring games. This team almost has four players above 100 points, which is extremely impressive and not many teams can match that. This team has two 50 goal scorers in Girts Galvins and Vasile Lamb, so goalscoring is not a problem for this team. On the defensive front, they've really only got Brian Payne as the other two defenseman are not the strongest and they also have a bot defenseman. They also have Wumbo in net who went 42-18-4 with a 0.929 sv% and a 2.55 GAA, very solid between the pipes. On the other side we have the Prague Phantoms who shocked some people and were able to actually finish 3rd in the European Conference. I will say Warsaw has a slight edge on Prague mainly on offense, but defending is where I believe Prague has a fairly big advantage. Not only does Prague have four defenseman, but they have a disgusting one-two punch of Erlantz Jokinen and Mikhail Kovalchuk who will prove scary for the Warsaw Predators to handle. They also have Clueless Wallob in net, who went 34-22-8 with a 0.926 sv% and a 2.55 GAA, almost identical stats to Wumbo. This series is going to be an absolute banger, but I'm going to have to go with an upset in this one and give the win to Prague, due to the fact of that extra defenseman being very key for them.
 
Prediction:  4-3
 
NA Conference Finals:
 
 (1) Calgary Wranglers vs. (2) Chicago Phoenix
 
For the NA Conference Finals, we have the Calgary Wranglers taking on the Chicago Phoenix, in which is in my opinion, the better of the two Conference Finals series. Both of these teams are evenly matched and throughout the regular season, all of their games were decided by two goals or less, with only one of them being a two goal game and the rest being a single goal. I seriously think this is going to go to seven games and all these games will be decided by two goals or less. You can literally pick any matchup and it's going to a banger player matchup, but I'm going to have to go with the duo of Daniel Janser and Landon Wolanin vs Baby Bob and Scotty Sundin. Both of these duo teams are extremely talented and the fact that we can possibly see them faceoff is going to be a treat to watch. This is not to discredit anyone else on the roster, because both of these teams are deep with depth on their roster and maybe all they need is for someone further down on the point sheet to have a great series to push one team over the other. I hope this matchup ends up happening as it'll be one of the best series in the playoffs, but at the end of the day I'm going to have to give Calgary the win, just barely.
 
Prediction:  4-3
 
EU Conference Finals:
 
(1) Moscow Menace vs. (3) Prague Phantoms
 
On the other side of the playoffs, in the EU Conference Finals we have the Moscow Menace taking on the Prague Phantoms. I wish this series would be as hype as the other series, but this series itself will be determined by defending overall. I think that both these teams do have the offense capabilities to put up goals, but they're not like Calgary and Chicago where they'll be in an offensive shootout on who will win the game. The season series between these two teams were actually all one goal games, so this series in my eyes will be fairly close. However, all these games were played at the beginning of the season and the rosters have changed a bit, but it should still be a good series. The matchup I'll be looking forward to most is AK92 Wit da Hoodie vs Erlantz Jokinen, two defenseman who I feel like will play very big roles for their team in this series. As I said, I think defense will be the name of the game for this series, and that's why I've highlighted these two players, as they lead their team defensively. While this series might not have the fireworks and high-octane offense like the other series, it'll still be a close one at the end of the day, where I think Moscow will edge out Prague.
 
Prediction:  4-2
 
S86 Finals:
 
(1) Calgary Wranglers vs. (1) Moscow Menace
 
We've finally made it, all the way to the finals where the Calgary Wranglers, the NA champions, take on the Moscow Menace, the EU champions. Now I know it's not very original, picking the two first seeds to make it all the way to the finals, but I truly believe that these two teams have the best chance to make it all the way to the finals, I mean they were first for a reason. These teams played each other four times during the regular season, where the series was split 2-2, so it really could go either way for these teams. Both of these teams are in the finals for one reason over the other teams and one reason only, scoring depth. Both of these teams have proven that they don't just need a couple players to carry there team, they have deep rosters with offensive and defensive capabilities across the entire lineup. I'm going to have to pick one of these two teams to win it all, and it's going to be tough, because in my eyes they're really close in skill. However, I'm going to have to give it over to Calgary for one reason and one reason only, Moscow always finds a way to fumble in the finals. It seems like this curse has been going on forever now and Moscow cannot find a way to win the finals, they can always get there, but they can't finish it off at the finish line. If I were to pick one player in this finals who is going to have an impact that isn't really one of the main players for the team, I'm going to go with Leandro Gonclaves. He has had a really solid season so far and seems to always show up when playoffs come around, being a PPG in both of the playoff runs that Calgary had previously. Maybe he's the secret to Calgary winning the cup, maybe not, who knows?! At the end of the day though, I'm going to give the cup to Calgary!
 
Prediction:  4-3
 
Winner: Calgary Wranglers
Playoff MVP: Daniel Janser
 
Alright, that'll be all! I hope you enjoyed reading this article, I didn't really put too much time into it analytically and I haven't really followed a ton of storylines so I'd like to apologize for that. This is just my thoughts of what'll happen in the playoffs and I'm sure I'm going to be completely wrong. I tried to mention players who had great season and even some who maybe were hiding behind superstars. At the end of the day, there's a reason why it's a "prediction", because it might not even happen. I might write an M one, maybe not, but I've paid attention more to the M so they'll be a bit more accurate. Regardless, I hope you liked the article and enjoy!
 
2000+ words, more stuff to claim yay!
 
Players Mentioned:
 

Deal.

Now make sure that in your Bio you mention that he is B(j)orn in Vasteras. That way you come from the same town as STZ's player (and make sure the two of you will never, ever get drafted by @Shindigs (I know he does not hold a post which positions him to draft anyone, but there is still time...))

Another #blamecole

With Bo's 93 Assist so far this season that's a new hybrid era record, and he's got his sights set on trying to beat Moreau's 112 point record for dmen. Though after two awful games where he only put up 1G 0A, it's looking like a very tall ask. Needing to score 9 points in the final 4 games of the season to do it. Now Bo has scored at 2 PPG pace for quite a few sims this season, including multiple performances in the 14 game point streak that just ended, with the best sim arguably being one where he put up 8 points in 3 games. So to set that record he's going to have to really clutch up these last 2 sims. But it's not impossible.
 
The interesting thing to note about Bo's season is that as much as he's had an amazing season. It's been far from perfect, sitting on a somewhat laughable 4.56 S% he's left with about 10 fewer goals than you'd project him to have with his shot totals. So had Simon favored his shooting to a slightly more normal degree this season, Bo likely would have slammed the record that was set by Frank in S83 with a 10.10 S%, putting up almost twice Bo's goals with ~70 fewer shots on the season.

With Bo's 93 Assist so far this season that's a new hybrid era record, and he's got his sights set on trying to beat Moreau's 112 point record for dmen. Though after two awful games where he only put up 1G 0A, it's looking like a very tall ask. Needing to score 9 points in the final 4 games of the season to do it. Now Bo has scored at 2 PPG pace for quite a few sims this season, including multiple performances in the 14 game point streak that just ended, with the best sim arguably being one where he put up 8 points in 3 games. So to set that record he's going to have to really clutch up these last 2 sims. But it's not impossible.
 
The interesting thing to note about Bo's season is that as much as he's had an amazing season. It's been far from perfect, sitting on a somewhat laughable 4.56 S% he's left with about 10 fewer goals than you'd project him to have with his shot totals. So had Simon favored his shooting to a slightly more normal degree this season, Bo likely would have slammed the record that was set by Frank in S83 with a 10.10 S%, putting up almost twice Bo's goals with ~70 fewer shots on the season.

With Bo's 93 Assist so far this season that's a new hybrid era record, and he's got his sights set on trying to beat Moreau's 112 point record for dmen. Though after two awful games where he only put up 1G 0A, it's looking like a very tall ask. Needing to score 9 points in the final 4 games of the season to do it. Now Bo has scored at 2 PPG pace for quite a few sims this season, including multiple performances in the 14 game point streak that just ended, with the best sim arguably being one where he put up 8 points in 3 games. So to set that record he's going to have to really clutch up these last 2 sims. But it's not impossible.
 
The interesting thing to note about Bo's season is that as much as he's had an amazing season. It's been far from perfect, sitting on a somewhat laughable 4.56 S% he's left with about 10 fewer goals than you'd project him to have with his shot totals. So had Simon favored his shooting to a slightly more normal degree this season, Bo likely would have slammed the record that was set by Frank in S83 with a 10.10 S%, putting up almost twice Bo's goals with ~70 fewer shots on the season.

So, another week has passed and there is a lot going on in the league.  Some amazing point scorers, a stacked EU conference, a defenseman lighting it up, and a new PIM leader making a name for himself.  So, let’s do episode three of Around the league in 500 words.
 
EU CONFERENCE IS INSANE:
 
As of right now, two teams in NA (Chicago and Calgary) are taking off from the rest with some amazing wins and huge numbers.  In the EU there are 5 teams vying for playoff berths and probably 2 teams who could win the division.  Moscow, Warsaw, Davos, Prague, and London are all making huge win streaks as the season comes close to an end.  Most impressive has been Prague as of late.  They have been putting lots of goals on the board and are #2 in goals scored in the EU.  Excited to see it come down to the wire.
 
 
Defenseman in race for scoring Title:
 
I make it no secret I always root for the defensive players in the league.  I would love to see a D-person with the scoring title once in my career.  Bo Johansson @Shindigsis absolutely tearing it up for Chicago this season.  He’s in 3rd place overall at 104 points in 68 games, 10 back from Baby Bob for #1.  Unless something crazy happens, I don’t see him getting the #1 spot but huge shout out to him for an amazing season.  I hope there are many awards for his performance this season and I secretly hope he still loses to Warsaw in the finals.  LOL 
 
Sophomore Dman showing his toughness: 
 
The last two seasons have seen familiar names like Brian Payne and Vinny Detroit at the top of the PIM leader board.  This season NY’s monstrous Dman Jared Carter the 2st has knuckled his way to the top and shows no signs of slowing down.  He has an amazing 8 fights on the season with 5 fight wins!  With 4 games left in the season he has a whopping 239 minutes in the sin bin and 276 hits, which is no small feat for a defenseman.  Great season @jaredc7and I hope that Payne and Jared Carter can mix it up sometime, just don’t hurt me!   
 
 
SHOUT OUT VHLE Tough guy!
 
Ok so I normally don’t cover the VHLE or M but I should.  I wanted to offer a quick shout to Bratislava Watchman defenseman Womp Womp Womp Womp Womp Womp Jr (yes the name is correct) @AdamEssAdam.  The S85 Malmo draftee (18th overall) has racked up 193 PIMs in 68 games and an amazing 300 hits!!!   I want to tell him his name absolutely sucks in my effort to praise him but am afraid he might actually make me eat my words.  I love giving shout outs to tough guys and thought I’d shed some light on Womp x5 jr.  I hope to see him flourish in the VHL next season and maybe someone will knock an letter or two off his name next season so its easier to type!!   LOL
 
 
Until next time
 
 
 
 

Always hard to tell what is/isn't working with builds. I've tried to keep a 4-5 gap between Skating and Passing on purpose to make Bo skate the neutral zone instead of trying to pass through it, but I do agree it's a bit weird the difference between Poopy and Bo is as big as it is just looking at this season. Previous seasons I think we've never really been *that* similar. At least different enough that having very different outcomes make some sense. Bo's first two seasons had neither SC or CK, then 3rd season was SC but no CK and 4th season was SC+CK. The DI+LD add didn't happen until this season, and with how much STHS seems to just love high TPA. It's almost hard to tell how much Bo's performance comes from what I've actually added to, and how much is from STHS going "big number good, ooga boga!"
 
The main reason I've added to DI is cause I don't want Bo taking 100+ PIM like last season, and since neither LD or PO depreciate it's the only things I can still add to and be able to deal with the new depreciation while also peaking Bo at 1337 TPA, because it's a funny number.
 
And really, I probably wouldn't recommend Bo's build to people. Thunder's build makes more sense unless you're degen earning like I am. I'm basically just brute forcing performance by earning all the things. His is significantly more "efficient".

I'd add 15$ and make a joint bid of 50$ with you. You'd get 9 emotes, I'd get 3.
 
What do you say? You wanna share? 😏
 
(Also, @Shindigs, would this be alright with you?)