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Squids McKenzie
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Posts posted by Squids McKenzie
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On 10/3/2022 at 11:24 AM, Thunder said:
Press Conference
Week ending 10/09/2022
(Answer Questions for 2 Capped TPE!)
- Recent trades have made an immediate success. What are our chances of advancing deep into the playoffs now?
2. Have you ever suffered a concussion playing sports?
3. Jeremy Swayman has faced almost 1400 shots so far this season and he’s still standing. How resilient is he and how much of an impact is he having on Mexico City’s success?
4. Have you welcomed our new players, The Mediocre One and Ross Glagau? Do you think they miss their old team and they are happy with the trade?
5. If you could have one super power, what would it be?
6. What is your favorite cookie?
1. Recent trades have made an immediate success. What are our chances of advancing deep into the playoffs now?
I like our chances. We had a real rough go of it at the start. We picked up some scoring at the deadline and it’s elevated the whole team. QSW has been racking up assists and we seem to be moving the puck significantly better. Pressure’s come off Swayman a bit having a legit backup and an offense to provide a buffer.
2. Have you ever suffered a concussion playing sports?
Nope. Never a concussion (knock on wood). Broke my nose in a mosh pit before, though.
3. Jeremy Swayman has faced almost 1400 shots so far this season and he’s still standing. How resilient is he and how much of an impact is he having on Mexico City’s success?
He’s faced quite a bunch of shots. His resilience is without question as he’s worked through some struggles this season. I’m sure the pressure’s been tough without a legit backup for the front half of the season. It was kill or be killed.
4. Have you welcomed our new players, The Mediocre One and Ross Glagau? Do you think they miss their old team and they are happy with the trade?
I have, a little bit. Been on vacation, but look forward to talking some more now! I bet they do. I would’ve hated to leave Mexico, but I’ve seen them start to integrate pretty well. We have a stellar locker room that will welcome them with open arms.
5. If you could have one super power, what would it be?
Student loan forgiveness.
6. What is your favorite cookie?
Asking the hard hitting questions tonight. Personally, I’m a huge fan of fresh, hot red velvet crinkle cookies.
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4 hours ago, Spartan said:
There's a lot of chatter in here about getting people more aware of the forums once they create. I'll just chip in and say that there is a system in development that aims to solve most of the concerns in this thread such as new folks being unaware of forums, new creates being unaware of contract offers, or new users being without guidance immediately after creation. Once that is ready for implementation, I hope we'll see more new members sticking with the league instead of just going AWOL right after creation.
That would be huge. Tbh as a pretty new person I bookmarked the “How to Get TPE” post Ricer posted. I use the links in there to get to Media spots and graphics and the bread and butter of the forum. The forum isn’t great for new people — no shade to whoever set this up, I’m not a web designer and I know this stuff isn’t easy — as It’s daunting and filled with nested content within nested content.
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12 hours ago, Thunder said:
Press Conference
Week ending 10/02/2022
(Answer Questions for 2 Capped TPE!)
1. Have you pre-ordered NHL 23? If not, do you plan on getting it when it comes out?
2. How many different video games did you play last week?
3. Sticking with the video game theme, what is your all time favorite video game?
4. If your player was sponsored, what would it be and why?
5. Which teammate do you consider to have the best player graphic?
6. Have you ever eaten a kronut?
1) Probably not. I used to play the hell out of sports games but they feel like they’re pushing out games with half-complete “story” modes now, with the exception of FIFA.
2) Uhhhh. I played the Nonogram game on my phone lmfao. Got my wife Dreamlight Valley for Switch and that’s been a lot of fun to watch.
3) Probs Legend of Zelda, either Majora’s Mask or Ocarina of Time for the N64. Rediscovered them back in March and it was a total blast. I try not to be nostalgic but when I fall, I fall hard
4) Quinn would 110% have a Chapstick and a HydroFlask sponsorship. Addicted and my HydroFlask doesn’t leave my side
5) Hands down, Jeremy Swayman. Those side profile drawings are flawless.
6) Negative. But croissants kick ass
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Official Statement On Trade Rumors
from the camp of Quinn Saint-Willes
Earlier today, my teammate in Mexico City confirmed that the rumors have been true. There have been at least a few GMs enquiring about the likelihood of a trade. Like Womp said, GM Cole called us both in and gave us the rundown. Some mid-table teams were desperate for some defensive reinforcements to try and make a push. While my line mate gave a significantly more colorful presser than I — opting instead for a simple written statement — I share his feelings. I will not be leaving La Ciudad.
Ultimately, I know Mexico City is not my forever home, but why would I want to cut my time here even shorter? Mexico City is one of the few teams to have recruited and held discussions with me, in earnest, leading up to the draft. This is a team that cared about my own personal goals. I made the jump from Brighton to play in North America to start my journey to the VHL. That’s a lot to uproot. I’m not about to uproot again to be a hired gun for a team that had no interest in scouting me from the jump. Additionally, I’m not going to uproot simply to be knackered in the first round of the playoffs. To be frank, that’s horrible business, on my part.
This is a development league. Yes, winning is great. The stadium and the atmosphere and fans lighting up is what makes the game worth playing, but ultimately we are here to blossom into the players and people we want to become. The Kings prioritize me and my teammates; the family we’ve built in the locker room. Cole and the crew want to amplify our strengths, not fit us into whatever mold they need to win some hardware. If you develop properly, the hardware will come. That is what the M is about. That is what we're building here in Mexico City.
!Viva la Ciudad! Estamos juntas.
–– QSW ––
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Week of Sept 25; final TPE claim — 4 of 4
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On 9/19/2022 at 12:15 PM, Thunder said:
Press Conference
Week ending 09/25/2022
(Answer Questions for 2 Capped TPE!)
1. One third into the season and we are holding up in last place. Are you disappointed in your player? What changes are you planning on making to your build if any?
2. How much of an impact do you see the teams’ struggle will affect your value to the E and VHL?
3. Womp Womp Womp… continues to dominate on defense. What do you think his diet consists of to be such a destroyer?
4. Nanashi Mumei and Quinn Saint-Willes are on the Defensive Leaderboard. How quickly will they move up the leaderboard and represent Mexico City as top defenseman?
5. What VHLM team will fall victim to Mississauga? (Better not be Mexico City!)
6. What is your favorite candy?
1) Quinn’s fresh. She’s had some great all-around games but I think when she gets ghosty it has a big impact on the team. Going to continue focusing on DF/SK and then home PH/PA to get those playmaker abilities up.
2) I’m a defender. No such thing as decreasing value.
3) 7 square meals a day, each with a cocktail of gin and vodka cut with white rum.
4) Tonight. Bombest D core in the M.
5) Miami would be funny as hell.
6) Tough choice but think I gotta go with the classic Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers, especially those blue-pink ones. They beat more ass than Womp.
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Hockey’s Back in CDMX!
Meet Los Guardias Rojos
‘CDMX Tourism’, Squids McKenzie
MEXICO CITY (MX) —
Hockey is back in the Ciudad de los Palacios. The Kings look to follow their deep run from season 84 by bringing home the hardware in season 85. GM Coleh has taken diligent steps to balance the defence and offense, while returning last year’s back-up goaltender Jeremy Swayman to take over G1 duties.
With all of the diligence paid on-ice and in the front office, the supporter section in Mexico City is making sure to bring the heat to visitors of El Palacio — sometimes literally.
Los Guardias Rojos (Red Guards) bring a unique experience to hockey in Mexico City. More raucous than any other fandom in the VHLM, Guardias Rojas post up behind the visitor’s zone, causing trouble for opposing goaltender’s in the first and third. Sometimes, Los Rojos will even occupy standing room in the visitor’s zone in the second period.
Vuvuzela blasts, stadium sing-alongs, pounding drums, and waving flags and banners are all a part of the Los Guardias Rojos experience. With big games, you can even catch Los Rojos with flares — safety concerns be damned.
If you have the chance, catch a gameday at El Palacio. You won’t be sorry!
- kirbithan and jacobcarson877
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Now that I have my 100 TPE, let’s try this again
+10 Quinn Saint-Willes
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Sept 18 - Week 3 of 4, TPE claim
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12 hours ago, Thunder said:
Press Conference
Week ending 09/18/2022
(Answer Questions for 2 Capped TPE!)
1. The first week has passed and it looks like we have some improvement. What do you recommend?
Tbh I feel like the lines are solid. We’ve had some truly standout performances, even. Feels like we haven’t had everything click at the same time though. Curious how the STHS adjusts as the season continues. Does feel like we’ve been victims of tough luck and early-season dogfighting with solid teams .
2. Are you happy with your player’s performance thus far?
Not really. While Quinn is a “playmaker” pass-first type with a greater eye to defense, she’s proven to be off-and-on. Can have a goal and an assist in a game and five blocks in another with and absolute goose egg sandwiched between them. All about consistency and not getting too ghosty out there.
12 hours ago, Thunder said:3. Our tough guy has been intimidating this season. What impact does Womp Womp Womp .. have against the opponents and will Womp Womp Womp .. be the hit leader again next week?
If he’s not the hit leader, I’ll eat my shorts. Womp’s been an absolute beast. Getting ejected 15 minutes into the season and being the direct cause of an opponent’s ejection rules. Blah blah, lack of discipline, sure. But it gets the team hyped to have a tough guy. Provides a great foil on the pairing with Quinn.
4. Nikolas Kauppi leads the team in points and is at an amazing 15.22% shot percentage. Can Nikolas continue that pace? What do you want to say to Nikolas?
I think he can keep it close. Kauppi has been a damn force. Keep it up! Definitely a key cog to the machine we’re building and I can’t wait for it to fire on all cylinders.
5. How have you been doing with the Trivia questions thus far?
First two times, I guessed outright. Took a point each time. This last time, I was able to find both answers. Hell yeah!
6. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween! I love the pastel Halloween deco that’s become en vogue. Fall is my favorite season. And I’ll be straight, I think cheesy couples costumes are cute af.
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Fresh Cut Magazine, ‘Gamechangers’ Profile
QUINN SAINT-WILLES
Brighton, England
#8, Defence || Mexico City Kings
Fresh Cut Mag: Sitting down with us today we have Sussex County Sea Devils Defender and Elite Ice Hockey League Champion, Quinn Saint-Willes. Thanks so much for chatting with us!
Quinn Saint-Willes: Of course, the pleasure’s all mine! Elated to have this chance. It’s been a truly incredible season.
FCM: To say the least! [laughs] You set the EIHL on fire in your first full season… And you are just age 20. 30 regular season matches — 8 goals and 59 assists as a defender. 8 playoff contests — 1 goal and 22 assists. That’s an absolutely torrid run!
QSW: [laughs] It was a lot of work! With the first round bye, we managed to sweep Cardiff in the semis after they went all 5 matches with Belfast in the quarters. Our finals with Sheffield were incredible. Watch out for them next season! But really, I’m out here to be the best. Alex [Nolan, Sussex County 1C] and I are out here to prove we can do more than just “hang” with the boys. We can beat them. Handily [laughs].
FCM: That’s a great segue into the deeper talking points. You and Alex have known each other for years. Rumor has it, she’s the one that got you into hockey. Tell us about that.
QSW: Oh yeah! She’s been my best friend since we were kids. Our dads are still in the transit workers’ union together. Even with an ocean between them, Alex’s uncle [ex-NHL and Olympic ice hockey player Owen Nolan] always kept in touch with his brother. Her family was always into Sea Devils matches. I even went with them a few times… But I was always more into footy, myself. Y’know, as most English kids tend to [laughs]. Brighton lass, here. [laughs]
I played football since I was able to walk. Played on bags of community squads as a central midfielder. I loved being able to play the field. I could defend and I could score. I was there to captain the team in transition. What sucks is that recruiting for women’s teams wasn’t what it is today, even three or four years ago… By the time I started to get a scout coming to my games, Alex had pretty much worn me down.
FCM: What do you mean by “worn you down”?
QSW: [laughs] Get ready for another roundabout. Like I said, I caught some Sea Devils matches with her and she’d also come with my family to the Amex to catch the Seagulls. Funny enough, we never caught a lot of each other’s matches. Didn’t get to support each other in the stands. A lot of times, they overlapped. It wasn’t until we were getting ready to finish up Secondary that we’d caught each other’s games. I loved what Alex did; she forced her way onto that team. She was the only girl at Falmer Freeze H.C. She played harder and better than anyone else on the ice.
From the jump, her parents were huge advocates. They were supportive and had to fight the gaffer to get her a try-out, even. At least U17 football had girls’ squads. She never squandered her chance. It drove her. She played with a chip on her shoulder. Look at me, all this fawning! [laughs]
Anyway, we’d skated together with our families and I was quite good, not to brag [laughs]. She caught me on the pitch and said something along the lines of “that’s the kind of command you need on the power play” and “you can skate… you have the eye for the field, you know exactly when to play selflessly and when you can take the shot.” She kept prodding and told me to come with her to training. They were down a defender, the “1D” and power play captain. She said the pairs were getting shuffled and I had a real chance. At least she thought so. We were 17 [laughs]. I’d finally had a scout at my last football match, but it wouldn’t hurt to try out for hockey. Turns out it definitely didn’t hurt!
FCM: So she wore you down and got you to show up. Tell us what that training was like.
QSW: It was the most “feel-good sports movie” thing... Alex and I practiced the basics at the rink for a week or two before I went with her and her mum to training. Somehow, the coach [now, former coach] still didn’t have solid pairings. Alex told him she brought a solution to the problem. He was an ass. He laughed at us. Given, this was early 2019, and god forbid one girl play hockey, let alone two. At the same time, he gave an exasperated, “Well, dress. Show me what you got.” I did some pretty simple stick handling and skating exercises. Weaved through some cones and took some shots. He told me to stick around. By the end of practice, I had some of the guys coming after me like they were trying to play enforcer. It felt very old school. I wasn’t about it. Why get blood on the ice when I could trip them up? I could skate better, poke check the puck away, and get possession quicker than any of them could’ve spelled “fight”. Alex was class. There’s a reason she was their first-line center at 17. The guy they had between the pipes in training had no solution to her backhanders and wrist shots. Gaffer had me slide directly into that 1D spot. It was pretty surreal. Like I said, real “sports movie”.
FCM: Ironically, you weren’t with Falmer Freeze H.C. long enough to truly solve their problem. You and Alex were a class above and both received contracts and call ups to the English National League’s Brighton Whitecaps. They were toward the backend of the table and needed an injection of new life.
QSW: Exactly. We just took the piss out of the league and Whitecaps couldn’t watch us dominate as they floundered. They didn’t care what our gender was, we got results. Right before the regular season wrapped, we were hit with the COVID-19 pandemic. It was horrifying and dreadful. So much loss and despair. I was able to keep up my conditioning and in the backyard, I’d done up some makeshift, bastardized field hockey set up. Something for a semblance of reps. As 2020 progressed, later in the year I was able to skate on ponds, which wasn’t really all that safe and the ice wasn’t the same. It was something though! I’d YouTube old Stanley Cup games, EIHL games, and then I’d even caught onto the Victory Hockey League. That was incredible! It was totally normal to see non-men players on a team with men. Everyone was class, too!
FCM: With that, the ENL resumed play with a tournament, best-of-3 series, at the start of 2021. Whitecaps made a surprise run, falling in the semi-finals to the Cardiff Fire, who ultimately won the league.
QSW: Yeah! It was a pretty magical run. Everyone came back reinvigorated. We had been through a traumatic event together and had renewed outlooks on life. I’d only fallen more in love with the sport. Wish we could’ve gone all the way, though.
FCM: To start the 2021/22 season, you thought you’d be back with Brighton?
QSW: Yep! We were ready to challenge for the championship.
FCM: Instead, you and Alex both got the call to EIHL parent club, Sussex County Sea Devils. Your top pairing defence partner, Trent Arnold, also got the call.
QSW: Yeah! That’s right. It was mental! We were all 19 and already in the English top flight — an aside, Trent could be paired with a bag of toffee this upcoming season and they’d still be the best pairing in the league. No way he doesn’t crack the NHL soon... But it was all so surreal. I’d started playing at 17!
FCM: Sussex County had been a bang average, mid-table team since their championship in 2012. As we talked about earlier, you had a miraculous run. What’s next?
QSW: Of course, I have to talk about my best friend [laughs]. Alex is returning to Sea Devils as the odds-on 1C. She’s the best in the league, bar none. She’s also started some organizations looking to get more girls and non-binary kids involved in hockey. A team is a great way to build leaders and share ideas and perspectives. We want England to have a women’s team that gets mentioned in the same breath as Canada or Sweden or Finland.
I have decided not to return to Sussex County. I’m making a run at the VHL. I want to show the girls and enbies here that they can go play at the world’s largest stage. These are the best of the best. I want to take this challenge. I declared for the VHLM draft as a virtual unknown. GM Cole took a big chance selecting me 17th overall to the Kings. I’m ecstatic to hit the ice in Mexico City. Let’s see what this footballing girl from Brighton can do!
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Sept 11 - Week 2 of 4, TPE Claim
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2 hours ago, Thunder said:
Press Conference
Week ending 09/11/2022
(Answer Questions for 2 Capped TPE!)
1. The new season is almost upon us. What would you like to tell your teammates about your player and how do you plan on contributing?
Excited for the season! I’m Squids (they/them) and my player’s Quinn Saint-Wilkes (she/her). Aiming to be a playmaker/PP quarterback defender that plays a finesse style of D. Tbh probably a perfect foil to my line mate, Womp.
2. Having the top goalie in the league, what do you expect from Jeremy Swayman this season?
Shutouts. Every night, jk. Especially with a growing defense in front of him, I expect Swayman to be the top goalie in the VHLM, easily.3. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being best), where do you rate GM Cole’s drafts, trades, and free agent acquisitions to put Mexico City in the running?
So far, I’d say pretty much a 10, but I’m a little biased haha. Overall, think we have a great forward core and Swayman between the pipes is absolutely A-1. Think Womp’s a great defender.
4. Which team do you consider as our biggest rival and how will we fare this season against them?
I’m pretty fresh but I’m feeling Vegas. As far as I know, bounced the Kings from the play-offs last season. I’ll project a pretty even series in the season and Mexico City comes out on top after a knock-down PO series.5. What is your favorite hockey team outside of VHL?
For now, our local ECHL team, the Wheeling Nailers. ECHL games rule! NHL, the Flyers and, of course, the Kraken. I’ll be keeping an eye on Philly’s favorite son, Claude Giroux, in his return home to Ottawa though.
6. What is your favorite pie, and do you add ice cream to it?
Cherry. Fresh and warm. Hold the ice cream plz
- Thunder and badcolethetitan
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On 8/29/2022 at 11:45 AM, jacobcarson877 said:
SAN DIEGO MARLINS (ft. the JST) PRESS CONFERENCE
Week Ending 8/28/2022 or 9/4/2022
Answer 3 questions for 1 capped TPE, all 6 for 2.
1. VHLM Draft will be sometime this week! Take a crack at guessing who is going to draft you!
I’ve had a few really great talks. But I’m going to roll the dice and go with Mexico City?
2. We are leading into September this week, what do you have going on in September that is exciting?
This month is mostly pretty low-key, but I do get to see Elton John on his farewell tour. That should be incredible.
3. If you were a GM, what would be the most important thing to consider when drafting someone?
I think commitment is a good word. Are they committed to being a good part of the locker room? Committed to growing as a person? Committed to making this community the best they can (and earning all the TPE in the process haha)
On 8/29/2022 at 11:45 AM, jacobcarson877 said:4. What is something that has always confused you about the VHL?
Some of the stats everyone is told to ignore like fighting or leadership, etc. I think it would be really awesome for the algorithm to take more “flavorful” stats like these and do something with them
5. Any ideas on what your next player is going to be? (In like a year and a half after you retire this one)
Absolutely. Go for another name inspired by my other cat, Docka Lapagos. She’ll be another Defender, this time from the Caribbean, but less of the finesse I’m going for with Quinn.
6. I've been craving Kraft Dinner all week since all my friends have had it, what is a food you'd love to have right now?
Linguistics rules. I love that you can tell a Canadian wrote this because instead of “Mac ‘n cheese”, it’s “Kraft Dinner”. Love dialects and language. Anyway! I’m stoked for it to start getting colder, because cold weather means potato soup time.
@Minion @BabeBaptista @CreamTeam @Novanod @vincentlg2007 @Bedirhan @Zylen @Mint @John Cimarno @sadie @TxtBammer @CODENAMEJIMMY @kirbithan -
+10 Quinn Saint-Willes
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Squids McKenzie’s
Draft Recap
Season 85 || VHL
Squids McKenzie here with Victory Sports Network.
And well, everyone. It finally happened! After loads of speculation from the fans and some crunch time scouting by the teams, the picks are in. There were a few buzzer-beater trades to shuffle the draft order. Today, we’re going to recap the first round of the VHL Entry Draft, along with one of the more surprising later picks. Finally, we’ll cap it all off with a discussion on the dearly beloved “Mr. Irrelevant”.
What do you think? What’s your favorite pick of the draft? Who’s a superstar and who’s a sleeper? Sound off in the comments!
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Pick 1 - Vancouver Wolves
Henry Eagles (RW, Poland)
E/ Bratislava Watchmen, M/ Houston Bulls
The case could be made that Eagles going first overall is a bit of a surprise. Looking strictly at the numbers last season with Bratislava, 25 points (11g, 14a) over 72 regular-season games played may not exactly jump off the page. If you jump back to season 83 with Houston, the numbers absolutely leap off the page — 17 goals, 14 assists over 16 games played. Those points totals are impressive. Eagles has a proven track record of doing the work and being an active member of the team, tying for third in total TPE in the draft. Eagles does have a precedent for production, even if it tailed off in season 84, and exhibited the intangibles that managers love. With a 200-foot game at age 19, it’s no surprise why the rebuilding Wolves went after him.
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Pick 2 - Prague Phantoms
John Jameson (C, Ireland)
M/ Philadelphia Reapers [San Diego Marlins]
The projected number one overall. With a chunk of Prague’s offensive corps staring down retirement, the draft room has to be elated that Jameson “slid” to them. This is a big “stats department” pick. The numbers are undeniable, with Jameson averaging over a point per game. The plus-minus, with the point total, may be an area of concern but could be bolstered by team performance as well. The league highly values scoring and Jameson has shown the drive to make great strides — just ask the European league that he will not be touching.
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Pick 3 - Calgary Wranglers
Phil Strasmore (D, England)
M/ Houston Bulls [San Diego Marlins, Mississauga Hounds]
Calgary traded up for the third pick, even after already trading up to pick 5 prior to the draft. Projected to select Strasmore, Calgary sealed that Strasmore was theirs. Like the NFL, in the VHL, there is a tendency to draft for need. Strasmore fills a definite need of rounding out the team’s top four Defenders. Collecting a point per game during his VHLM tenure and posting a positive plus-minus over 42 games with Houston, Strasmore tends more toward an offensive defender. At 6’2 and 215 lbs, Strasmore is not afraid to use his size to his advantage as a defender, as evidenced by his 85 hits over 42 games with the Bulls. Unsure if trading up was necessary, though.
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Pick 4 - New York Americans
Daniel Weaver (LW, Australia)
M/ Houston Bulls [Miami Marauders]
An offensive dream. Weaver is a by-the-book sniper and should immediately slot into the top 6, if not top 3. While there may not be much to the defensive game and backchecking, Weaver is a textbook example of the old joke “the best defense is a good offense.” The best jokes have a kernel of truth to them. During season 84, Weaver put up 35 goals and 45 assists and proved especially lethal in the playoffs for the Bulls, putting up 9 points in 7 games. Weaver is the highest TPE earner in the draft, showing bags of potential. New York just gained some remarkable firepower.
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Pick 5 - London United
Astro Singh (LW, Canada)
M/ Saskatoon Wild
A bit of a surprise pick here. London had their pick of the litter when it came to available goalies and opted not to select a potential franchise goalie in Matthew Murdock. Instead, United went with Singh, a left winger from the Saskatoon Wild. Singh was a prolific goal scorer with the Wild, putting up 72 points (38g, 34a) over 72 regular season games. Singh also plays a 200-foot game and understands how to play with defense in mind. Playing for a lower-tier team in the minors, Singh had a pretty notable appearance in the playoffs — 3 goals and 5 assists over 6 appearances. Singh is an unselfish player, knowing when to make the extra pass and knowing when to finish. Should stay the course with his development and make an impact for United come season 86.
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Pick 6 - Malmo Nighthawks
Tater Tottingham (D, Canada)
M/ Mexico City Kings [Halifax 21st]
@N0HBDY had Singh going to Malmo, which would have been a great pick for the Nighthawks, as they are still looking for the franchise face they had during Condor Adrienne’s tenure. Tater Tottingham will be making Sweden their home with a probable slide into the defensive middle pairing after another season of development. Tottingham has a penchant for playmaking, with 62 assists for Mexico City last season, in addition to finishing opportunities himself with 27 goals. There is a hope Tottingham continues to develop deking and stick handling; there is a chance for Malmo to have also secured a potential defensive standout, as well.
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Pick 7 - Moscow Menace
Matthew Murdock (G, USA)
E/ Istanbul Red Wolves, M/ Houston Bulls
Matt Murdock is the first goalie off the board, as anticipated, but Moscow traded up in the draft to secure their services. Murdock was between the pipes for Istanbul’s championship run this last season, posting a playoffs save percentage of .927% with a number of 2.7 goals against. In the regular season, Murdock posted a .927% again and a GAA of 2.39. In the VHLM with Houston, they posted similar numbers. Murdock should slot in automatically as a great VHL back-up and has shown earning consistency. As Papa Emeritus inches closer to eventual retirement, the potential of Murdock starting should bear out that Moscow’s netminding does not miss a beat.
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Pick 8 - Riga Reign
Henry Tucker, Jr. (G, Cocos)
M/ Mexico City Kings [Halifax 21st]
Considerations have to be made by Riga as Tobias Reinhardt’s retirement looms. Henry Tucker, Jr. is the big goaltender from Cocos Islands. Playing 48 games last season as Mexico City’s goalie tandem, HTJ saved .906% of shots against (971 saves). It is possible Tucker, Jr. sees some time with Riga this upcoming season, but the Reign is in no rush to pull him up. There is a curiousity as to how HTJ handles a larger workload throughout a probable full VHLE season. This is a great building block for Riga moving forward.
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Pick 9 - Malmo Nighthawks
Reid Johnson (D, USA)
M/ Vegas Aces
Malmo is in desperate need of Defenders. Johnson is a max-earning Defender from Las Vegas. He will still need to develop for a season, but Malmo needs to build from the back and are not in a position to rush any development. Johnson should slot in come season 86 as a top-pairing defender, especially with the rate at which he acquires TPE. Over 72 games, Johnson has shown solid offensive vision —especially for a defender — by racking up 52 assists, and displayed great discipline by accumulating less than .5 PIM per game.
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Pick 10 - London United
Jesse Teno (G, USA)
M/ Saskatoon Wild
Here we go! London gets their goaltender of the future as Cole Pearce departs. Teno is a first-gen player and put up a .904% save percentage with the lower-tier Saskatoon Wild. A victim of some rough play in front of them, Teno has every opportunity to develop into the franchise goaltender London has been desperate for. Though, it will be another season before Teno has the chance to crack the roster for United. High risk, high reward!
---Pick 11 - Prague Phantoms
Alfred Champagne (RW, France)
M/ Philadelphia Reapers [San Diego Marlins]
A consistent-earning right wing who really came into their own in 43 games with Philadelphia, accumulating a whopping 63 points over those appearances. Champagne was a playmaker (43 assists) for the Reapers and while Prague will ship him out to the VHLE, he looks very likely to bolster his finishing ability. Champagne will make a great right-hand to number two overall pick, C John Jameson. Prague seem to be on track to a proper build.
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Pick 12 - Helsinki Titans
Lloyd Braun (D, USA)
M/ Houston Bulls [San Diego Marlins]
Braun has shown outstanding work ethic over season 84. Titans GM Rayzor_7 identified that and did not risk Braun falling any lower. Braun plays as a two-way defender, generating chances in the offensive zone (14g, 40a in the VHLM) and is a physical presence in his own half. Should continue well-rounded development and land in the Titans’ top 4 come season 86.
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Pick 13 - New York Americans
Babay Shrimp (RW, Canada)
M/ Philadelphia Reapers [San Diego Marlins]
Interesting pick from New York, as currently Shrimp appears to be on track for second or third-line development. Has a defensive streak to their game and will look to refine some scoring ability. Has shown an eye for finding the open path, but will continue to develop before joining the Americans.
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Pick 14 - Toronto Legion
Isamu Knievel (D, Japan)
M/ Houston Bulls
A more defensive-minded pick with potential to be the defensive complement in a top 4 pairing. Sting Chameleon is likely to depart Toronto by the time Knieval cracks the lineup for the Legion. Knieval takes advantage of some offensive chances but it would be beneficial to see the offensive vision increase. At the least, they would like the numbers to look similar at the next step up — 10g, 35a.
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Pick 15 - L.A. Stars
Sunglasses Joyo (C, England)
M/ Halifax 21st
Most boards expected the Stars to build out from rookie sensation Art Vandelay in the net, putting a two-way defender in front of them. Instead, they opted to continue to stock the forwards pool with Sunglasses Joyo. Joyo has become a more consistent TPE earner and put up a total of 81 points in 63 appearances for the Halifax 21st. L.A. is hoping they struck gold and Joyo continues to bloom into a top six center.
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Pick 16 - Calgary Wranglers
Larry Abass, Jr. (LW, Canada)
M/ Vegas Aces
Calgary is in need of Defensive prospects, so opting for a winger in the first is a bit of a headscratcher with some notable D prospects remaining. What Calgary is getting with Larry Abass, Jr. is a player that accumulated over a point per game with Las Vegas and had a pretty remarkable +/- of 70. Calgary is hoping that Abass’ continues the momentum of his playoff performance, 7 goals and 13 assists over 15 games in Vegas’ championship run with a plus-minus of 13. While a headscratcher now, could very well end up a steal for the Wranglers.
+ + + + +
Surprise FallerPick 29 - Toronto Legion
Jeremy Swayman (G, USA)
M/ Mexico City Kings
After a great showing with Mexico City, most had Swayman as a mid-to-late first-rounder, as opposed to going late in the second round. In 25 games with the Kings, Swayman posted 21 wins and 3 losses with a fourth loss coming in overtime and a GAA under 2. The biggest concern is just gametime up to this point, as Swayman has demonstrated a penchant for being a solid TPE earner. This is a steal for Toronto as Squids thinks Swayman has the chance to become America’s next Dusty Wilson.
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Mr. Irrelevant
Pick 64 - Warsaw Predators
Andrew Tate (D, Romania)
M/ Vegas Aces
Everyone’s most beloved pick. The league needs defenders. Romanian Defender Andrew Tate last played in season 83, registering 4 points across 18 appearances. Averaging a hit per game and a +/- of 5, Tate’s game seems to strike a balance between offensive and defensive ability. Whether that ability translates to the world’s highest level is to be determined. There is just too small a sample size. Tate is 42 years of age, making it easy to root for them as they pursue their dream of playing at the international level.
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2,031 words — using for TPE for weeks of Aug 29-Sept 4, Sept 5-Sept 11, Sept 12-Sept 18, and Sept 19-25
Edits: typos and clarity
Edits 2: Date adjustments for clarity
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1 hour ago, JB123 said:
1. I'm not sure when the last time a team won a cup with a bot player being a starter. Do you think B-WAR D1 deserves to be on the banner? Interesting question, I see the argument that could be made for it. I’ll say no just for a sense of continuity and tradition.
2. We are heading into the off-season. What are you players plans during the break? Hitting free agency for the first time should be fun, then training for the new team and season.
3. Someone is forcing you eat a pop-tart, what flavor are you grabbing? Just looking at all the flavors now, cinnamon is probably the most enticing.
1. Way too early predictions for next season? Who wins the VHL, and/or VHLE/VHLM?
2. Is 13 truly the unluckiest number, or is there one that’s more unlucky, in your opinion?
3. Who is the best goalie in the NHL right now?
1) “Way too early predictions…”I’m going to go with Seattle. They went back and forth with Warsaw. Dusty is a beast between the pipes.VHLE, I’ll go with Bratislava over Istanbul. VHLM, Vegas seems pretty well-recruited but I’ll go with a spicy pick, Miami.
2) “Is 13 the unluckiest number…”
13 is a great number. Most unlucky number is 31. Just not an aesthetically pleasing numeral combo.
3) “Best goalie in NHL right now…”
I don’t want to be “that guy”, but it’s still really hard to diss on Vasilevsky. He’s just *got it*. Unfounded hot take though, career year from Cam Talbot in Ottawa this season.
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1) What VHL player(s) would you want to be on a team with?
2) What other sports are you into, if any?
3) What’s your oddly specific favorite color, if you have one (i.e., the shade of blue that a green traffic light is when you look at it through sunglasses)?
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10 hours ago, jacobcarson877 said:
SAN DIEGO MARLINS (ft. the JST and also Team Europe!) PRESS CONFERENCE
Week Ending 8/21/2022 or 8/28/2022
Answer 3 questions for 1 capped TPE, all 6 for 2.
1. The final VHL Playoff series between Seattle and Warsaw is likely closing up (or has just closed up) by now. What would winning a championship in the VHL mean to you?
Obviously, it means success. But to me, a large part of success means building a team that gels together, on and off the ice. Camaraderie and passion, that’s what it means.
2. The World Juniors in real life has just finished and the World Juniors in the VHL are just beginning. How do these tournaments help prospective players in the big leagues?
You have to take quite a few players in order to fill out these teams. Scouts can find a diamond in the rough or a hidden gem and this big stage can vault them to greater heights. You want to be the ”story” from the juniors.3. Do you feel as though you're ready for the upcoming season?
I do. I’m excited to see where it goes! After a day, I’m already looking to get my feet under me and so many of the folks in the JST camp have been incredible.
10 hours ago, jacobcarson877 said:4. I am off to a concert (The Strokes and the Red Hot Chili Peppers) today! Who would you most love to see in concert?
Enjoy your time! Sounds great!
That’s tough. It had been years since I’ve gone to any shows but I’ve been to several over the last year. I’d love a chance to catch Soul Glo touring behind Diaspora Problems (probs AOTY, check them out!) or see Kississippi.
5. What strategies do you use to balance real life and also the VHL?
Haha. Wish I could tell you! We’ll see how this first full week plays out. Ask me again later.
10 hours ago, jacobcarson877 said:6. Since this is the last week of the month, what was something great that happened this month?
This month has been so incredibly busy, but had a chance to kick it off with a friends and family camping trip and get to bookend it with another show this weekend! Stoked to catch Turnstile and MCR
@Minion @BabeBaptista @CreamTeam @Novanod @vincentlg2007 @Bedirhan @Zylen @Mint @John Cimarno @sadie @TxtBammer @CODENAMEJIMMY @kirbithan -
2 minutes ago, Ledge said:One thing I like doing is browsing the player list and finding a player with the stats that I want, and figuring out which attributes they prioritized and essentially trying to mimic their path. Of course, there's no shame in trying to concoct your own winning build, so just do a little research (like you're already doing) and have fun with it.
Thanks! I’ll def keep that in mind, just check out other players with similar “play styles”. Probably throw a bit more into scoring with the next TPE I get
Also love the profile pic! Hopefully this next season we can make a deeper playoff run. That series with Ft Wayne was real chippy! Army’s doing some good stuff.
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50 minutes ago, jacobcarson877 said:
Hey @Squids McKenzie! I am the GM of the Brigade in the Junior Showcase Tournament! We are currently 1st in the tournament, so if you'd like to join our roster and learn what it takes to dominate in the VHL, quote this message and reply with #WeAreBrigade and I will add you to the roster! Regardless, you should join the JST Discord!
#WeAreBrigade
Tried to join @ the discord link, but comes up invalid
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Thanks a lot! Will do. Going through “Gustav’s Guide to Building” now. Looking to make a quick D-person with a 200 ft game
- diacope and jacobcarson877
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Player Information
Username: Squids McKenzie
Player Name: Quinn Saint-Willes
Recruited From: Other (Instagram)
Age: 20
Position: D
Height: 70 in.
Weight: 160 lbs.
Birthplace: United Kingdom
- diacope, jacobcarson877 and Ricer13
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Mexico City Kings Press Conference
in Team Press Conferences
Posted
1) Picking up The Mediocre One has been money (on top of the recreates). Cole addressed the need of pure scorers and it’s really elevated everyone. With the depth, players can fill the role they are meant to and not be stretched so thin. That’s the making of an A-1 GM right there.
2) I’m gonna go with Skor. That eye test, his name’s always up there. The +14 and points totals say it all.
3) Blubeury McFleury
4) I expect to be popping champagne and getting that series win. Nothing wrong with a celebratory smoke, either.
5) Definitely excited, but can’t let the emotions get the best of you. Play harder. At the end of the day, it’s just another day at the office. Got ice in my veins.
6) Too easy. Gotta get on that baconator game. Ginger ale, please.