LucyXpher

Great article, it'll be fun to see how tonight's sims go!

Really well written article! Thanks for doing this as it is always fun to look ahead and speculate! It’ll be really interesting to see how it holds up come draft day!

Wow, 0-100 real quick

1. We made it to playoffs and we're doing pretty darn good! Houston currently leads San Diego 3-2 in our first round matchup. What are your thoughts on Houston's play through the first 5 games? - A: I like the way we're playing! I think our depth is going to come in clutch as the series goes on and as long as we can continue to shut down their scorers, we should be able to find a way to win one more game. Vencko has been unreal in this series too so he is also a huge part of our success so far. 2. Goaltender Ondrej Vencko @Mutti has been a stud between the pipes for us this season and will start every game for Houston these playoffs. What kind of difference does having a hot goalie in net make? - A: It can make all the difference! Just look at Philly and how much of an impact their goalie has made. On paper, Philly should not be THE top team, but they have the best goalie in the league in Lovstrom @Pifferfishand that has really given the team confidence in front of him. I think Vencko has been doing that for us lately too, but we actually have an incredible team top to bottom so I like our chances! 3. I know we're still in season, but I bet a lot of you still have the VHL and VHLE drafts in the backs of your heads! What team/What pick do you predict you will be drafted? Do you have any VHL or VHLE teams you'd prefer to go to? - A: I don't like this question because I don't want to predict where I go in the draft , there are so many good players that deserve to get picked so whatever number I land at will be awesome! There are a few teams I really like (Helsinki, Malmo, and Seattle are probably my top 3, I also like Vasteras in the VHLE), but I'd honestly be happy to join any team that wants me. The odds I end up on the team I would chose for myself are pretty low so it's not something I'm really concerned with. No matter what happens, it's going to be exciting! 4. VHLM playoffs are closer than we thought with each series needing 6 games minimum! Has there been any series which have surprised you? Did you predict the parity of matchups to be this good? - A: I expected Saskatoon to give Philly a better fight than some might have predicted, on paper these teams are actually pretty evenly matched, except for Philly's goaltending which is a clear advantage. Ottawa has done well to win a couple games as well! I predicted Vegas would take care of them in 5 games, but they've shown some great resilience and it's been fun to watch! As for Mexico and Miami, that is a super close series that I still think will go 7 games. Our series against San Diego, as well, has been pretty close. I like our chances of closing out at home, but I also wouldn't be shocked to see it go 7. San Diego is a good team too and we're definitely not looking past them even though we were up 3-1. 5. OUCH!! I stubbed my toe on the corner of my desk and I need the day off. The pain, the suffering... it's too immense. I told AGM @Nathan_8 to take over for the day and he wants to bag skate everyone?... WTF NATHAN!?!? We need to figure out a plan to get revenge on him for his tyrant actions. What prank/revenge act are you and the team pulling on our AGM for making everyone bag skate? - A: I call this prank "The Mysterious Fish" lol. Here's what we do: Nathan leaves his car keys on his desk quite often when he's at the arena so we could quickly borrow them and hide a fish in his car. It gets pretty hot in Houston so his car is not gonna smell nice if he doesn't find it quick. And when he does find it, we could leave a little sign on the fish for him to find that says SDM. 6. It's reading week in Canada for most universities and a lot of people are making me jealous while on their vacations. It's probably daddy's money I get it, but still, I want a Miami Vice under the Cuban sun right now! If you could pack your bags this week for vacation where would you like to go? - A: I've got two more weeks 'til reading break, but for a week long vacation I'd love to go check out London, England. I've never been there (except flying through Heathrow) and I'd love to actually just visit the city for a week for a change of scenery! I'm not the biggest fan of beach vacations because I always get a bit stir crazy. They're fun for a couple days, but then I want to do something. Plus, it's stupid hot here a lot of the year so I don't really feel the need to go on a warm vacation lol. 02/25/24

Nice piece! Go get that drink, you definitely earned it tonight!

Oh no! I did not mean to step on any toes, I had no idea! You could still write it, I'm sure we don't agree on everything lol. Or maybe you do a PiffCast where you explain why I'm wrong about all my predictions? Secretly, I just want another PiffCast, your podcasts are fire and really fun to listen to, btw!

Congrats on an incredible season, both the Nighthawks and your player! Hope you have a great playoff! I’m rooting for you to go all the way!

In @AJW I trust, but I will give you credit, you've built a great team

Lol, what's the saying...mess with the bull, get the horns? For me, I think I fancy some fried fish! Best of luck to you!

I'm here for it! I meant no disrespect lol, best of luck to y'all!

Thanks! And good luck to you and your team!

Noted on Goncalves, thanks! As for not believing in the Marlins, I just believe more in the Bulls lol, how could I not?

Have you ever wondered where the word "playoff" comes from? No? Just me? Okay then... Well, I'm going to tell you what I learned anyway. The term, playoff, is a combination of two English words, "play" and "off" (duh). What is interesting is that the two words have somewhat contrasting definitions. "Off" is a word commonly used as a preposition to describe the position or place of something, usually a non-primary or negative location. It has also been traditionally used to describe something being sent away or ended, an antonym of "on". It's why we might say a deal is off, or we turn off lights. "Play", on the other hand, is a term that commonly refers to the beginning or engagement in an activity, usually a game. While off is typically a term of negation, play is a positive term referring to the start and continuation of some action. At the beginning of the season, you might hear the phrase, "play on", signaling the commencement of the game. "Play off", on the other hand, suggests the beginning of the end, a call to wrap up action and determine a winner. The first known use of the term was in the 1607 play, “Lests to Make You Merie” by Thomas Dekker and George Wilkins. Eventually, the term would be used with more and more frequency in the sporting world. While the literal meaning, to begin to end, is retained in the contemporary definition, the term gained a more specific attachment to the particular set of post-season games leading up to the awarding of a championship. Those games became known as playoffs-- games played with the sole purpose of concluding a season by determining a winner. And so, as the VHLM regular season comes to a close, so commences the playoffs, the beginning of the end of Season 92. Though the regular season has already concluded, the season is far from decided with the most important games yet to be played. Two teams (Halifax and Mississauga) have already been eliminated from contention, but the remaining 8 teams will matchup to determine who will raise the Founder's Cup as VHLM champions this season. With the linguistic lesson out of the way, let's look at the four first round playoff series that will kick off the endgame of Season 92. (1) Philadelphia Reapers vs. (8) Saskatoon Wild Coming off of a dominant regular season which saw them win 54 of 72 games, amassing 112 points, the Philadelphia Reapers are the favorite in this series. There is, however, a lot of intrigue around this series as it sees this season's top regular season team against the Season 91 Champions, albeit with a very different roster from the team that actually won the Founder's Cup. Saskatoon enters the playoffs with 68 points, just over half as many as Philadelphia, and only 28 wins in 72 games. Despite the extreme disparity in regular season record, this series may prove to be a lot closer. On paper, many analysts have been critical of this Reapers roster which boasts only 1 bona fide all star skater in Yermolai Nabokov @fonziGG. With that said, the Reapers are full of players punching above their weight, providing offense and defense well above their projected value. Players like Enn Jinn @jhatty8, Magni Jinn @DontCallMeCarson, and beaubeau primetime @Bobo are making the most of their ice time and are contributing greater value than their attributes might predict. Behind all of this is probably their most important player, goaltender Jorgen Lovstrom @Pifferfish, who has made a strong case to be considered the top goalie in the VHLM this season with a .918%, 2.34 GAA, 3 shutouts, and 48 wins in 62 starts. With his importance to the Philadelphia roster, it is this writer's opinion that he should also be in consideration for MVP honors. It's difficult to imagine where the Reapers would be without Lovstrom's stellar play and he may well be the difference between winning the Founder's Cup or a disappointing first round exit. Lining up against the Reapers, Saskatoon actually compares favorably on paper-- in fact, if Saskatoon had retained Annie Oaks, Forum Content, and UghSike at the trade deadline, they would probably line up as the favorite in terms of team composition. Even with the departure of these players, Saskatoon still boasts a forward group that compares to Philadelphia's collection, and I'd be tempted to give Saskatoon the edge on defense with Carson Tripp @Cartripp14 leading the way from the back end. Where Saskatoon falls behind is at the goaltending position. Austin Goulet III @Tuchy is a fine goalie prospect, but he frankly does not hold a candle to the aforementioned Lovstrom, and if Saskatoon is going to win, Goulet III is going to have to find another level. Prediction: Philadelphia comes into the playoffs riding the high of regular season dominance, the impact of this run of form is high player chemistry and team morale and I don't think that evaporates overnight. Look for Philadelphia to continue their strong play into the postseason, but don't be surprised if the Wild make things interesting. I predict the Reapers take the series in 6 games (4-2) and move on to the semifinals. (2) Las Vegas Aces vs. (7) Ottawa Lynx After the stunning acquisition of phenom, Annie Oaks @Noodle Enjoyer, from the Saskatoon Wild at the trade deadline, Las Vegas enters the playoffs with one of the most potent top-6 forward groups in the VHLM. Oaks, along with Caeser Monterrey @CaptainGatsby, Piston Maicupp @MandyManiac, Elle Aura Ashe @Lynersify, and Stinky @taylorherd are among the most dynamic forwards in the league and are the stuff of nightmare for opposing defenses. On the back end, Vegas also boasts the league's top scoring defenseman in Bric Sheithaus @Oldhead91. Vegas also has solid depth throughout the rest of their forward and defense corps and should matchup favorably against almost any opponent in this year's playoffs. Goaltender Hugo Boss @Dil is a solid option between the pipes, but will need to be on his "A" game (pun very much intended) if the Aces are to make good on their championship aspirations. Vegas GM, @McLovin, possessed a solid hand in a competitive team this season and decided to play it aggressively, going all-in at the trade deadline to strengthen his forward group and give his team every chance for success. Time will tell if this gamble pays off. On the other side, Ottawa is lead by the two-headed monster that is Wayne Shotzky @Kenamatic and Ivan Ivanov @KmaddFPS. The two of them are tied for the league lead in points with 111 in 72 games, with Ivanov scoring a stunning 50 goals and Shotzky not far behind with 48. To say that the Lynx's success hinges on these two players is a bit of an understatement. Beyond their big two, Ottawa has Steve French @Seabass and The Phantom of the VHL @Hogan on offense, as well as WWumbo @Fire Tortorella on the back end as their top option. After these players, Ottawa's depth falls off fairly quickly and their goaltender, Alexander oviechkin jr @penguinb19 leaves something to be desired in goal. With another season of development, the rest of this roster will likely round into contending form, but at the moment it is difficult to see how Ottawa wins this series if Ivanov and Shotzky are kept at bay. Prediction: Vegas' scoring depth proves to be too much for Ottawa's defense and goaltending and Vegas powers their way to a decisive series victory in 5 games (4-1). (3) Mexico City Kings vs. (6) Miami Marauders The series between Mexico City and Miami may well be one of the most intriguing in the first round because of how well these two teams compare with one another entering the post-season. Though Mexico City managed a better record through the regular season, it wasn't by much with 87 points compared to Miami's 81. The two teams split the season series with an even 4-4 record against one another. The parity goes deeper as each team scored exactly 23 goals and allowed 23 against, with Miami holding a slight edge in the shots department with 244 to Mexico City's 221. By all accounts, this is going to be very close series between two evenly matched teams. Mexico City has a well balanced group of skaters with notable names such as Trey Daniels @Tdan04, Loona Buckzo @WildfireMicro, and French Fries @solyom leading the way up front, and Free Gorlab @eaglesfan036 and Chuck E Cheese @a_Ferk their head honchos on defense. In goal, Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen @Snussu is among the top goalies in the VHLM and should give Mexico a shot to win every night. It is hard to find holes in the Mexico roster, but if one had to be named it would be their depth outside of their top three forwards and top two defensemen. They'll be relying on big performances from players deeper in the roster if they hope to make a long run in these playoffs. Their regular season record shows that they are capable of such performances, but consistency will be the key to their playoff success. Miami, not unlike Mexico City, also boasts a well balanced roster. They do seem to have an advantage in the forward department with deadline acquisitions Forum Content @frescoelmo and UghSike @UghSike bolstering an already strong corps featuring Matthew Highmore @NineIQ v2, Joe Shmo @matt sovick, and Vanuza Kolesinska @chikn. On paper, their defense also seems to matchup favorably against Mexico City with Pierre Ennis @DeciBell4 and Gul Dukat @MSouthworth being their big two, while Bilbo Teebaggins @SackButter has had a strong showing this season as well. The one possible area of weakness for Miami might be in goal with Shaunca @shaun1979 having an inconsistent season at best. If he can find his game and peak at the right time, the Marauders have the tools to beat Mexico City, but it's a lot of pressure to put on a young goalie and the jury is still out on whether he has what it takes to lead the way. Prediction: There is so little between these two teams so it's difficult to see how this series doesn't go the distance. I'm going to hedge my bets with Shaunca and Miami's depth and say that the Marauders edge the series in 7 (4-3). (4) San Diego Marlins vs. (5) Houston Bulls In a first round full of intrigue, this series between the Marlins and the Bulls might have the most eyes on it. San Diego features one of the strongest forward groups in the league while Houston owns the distinction of being the leagues most improved team, growing from a group of green rookies into a legitimate championship level team over the course of the 72 games season. The Marlins owned the Bulls in the season series, winning 6 out of 8 games between the two sides, but it should be mentioned that a good number of these games were played earlier in the season and the Houston roster has changed quite a bit since then. The Bulls have bounced back with wins later in the season, proving that they can beat San Diego and adding to the intrigue surrounding this series. The Marlins, like Las Vegas, ice a lethal top-6 forward group. Dietrich Reingaard @JigglyGumballs, Gianfranco Del Rocco @Victor, Jean-Pierre Devote @eagle_3450, Wayne Gretzky @MubbleFubbles, and Dwight schcrute @Jamomayo (a former Houston Bull) make up the Marlins top five players, and could all be top line players on any team in the VHLM. Maverick Goncalves @leandrofg is also a strong player who provides excellent depth for San Diego, however there is a fairly steep drop-off beyond him. If you asked the Marlins, they'd probably tell you that they are as deep as they need to be, allowing their top players to play more minutes instead of having lower roster players eat up time, but it remains to be seen whether this strategy will hold up over a 7 game series. On defense, San Diego is strong and actually boasts decent quality through all 6 of their defensemen. Dustin Moore @Maxx leads the way as their top defender, but Jillian Woods @jacobcarson877 is a strong up-and-comer that the Marlins will also be leaning on in these playoffs. Finally, at goaltending, Samuel Wazinski @samthemancub has had a stellar season with a .904%, 2.91 GAA, and 35 wins in 64 starts. Some scouts would argue that he's probably been the beneficiary of a good team defense in front of him, but he certainly has shown the capacity to deliver the quality performances when called upon. The Houston Bulls are probably the deepest team in the VHLM. GM @AJW (who is expected to be a GM of the year candidate) has done an exceptional job of scouting new talent and building an environment in which these young players can grow and ultimately flourish. The team he has built is strong all the way through the lineup with 4 lines, 3 defensive pairings, and 2 quality goaltenders that can be rolled out at any time. In the forward group, captain Trimiskez Artav @jake led the way this season with 43 goals and 45 assists for 88 points. Joining him at the top of the depth chart are trade deadline acquisition, Antonia Bucatini @CowboyinAmerica, Chris Reynolds Jr. @Crstats23, Barry McOckiner @LanerDUST, Nathan Ecker @Nathan_8, and Tyler Lawson @Nyx. Quality depth options Murray Connolly @Blakemac22, Filip Zinek @FiZi, and Jack Dickens @Mystery_boy98 complete the top 3 lines for the Bulls. The Bulls' 4th line is home to one of the leagues most infectious leaders, Miner VHLer @Rhynex Entertainment, affectionately known in the Houston Locker-room as "SuperBot". Micah Cederbaum @MicahC and Dylan Boland @shadowbloxgame round out the forward corps, both having solid campaigns for the Bulls in minor roles. The Bulls are among the league's strongest on defense with Benjamin Abenduct @Schnee at the top of the chart with 81 points in 68 games. Frequent defense partner, Lucy Leitner @LucyXpher, has also had a strong showing this season for the Bulls, as well as one of the league's most physical players in Cody Toland @ctoland102. Bufert T Smustice @Crummer77, Toby Cook @KRZY, and Charles Losfeld @losfail round out the defense. The Bulls also boast what is possibly the best backup goaltender in the VHLM in Herald Benson @Benson. Starting goalie, Ondra Vencko @Mutti, should see the majority of starts in the playoffs, but should he falter, Benson is more than capable of shoring up the net. I've spoken to scouts about Vencko and I've learned that he's made some adjustments in his game recently that have really unlocked some of his potential. His recent starts have reflected this and, lately, he's been well above his season average of .892%. He could be a bit of a sleeper, I'm told, when it comes to playoff MVP candidates, provided the Bulls go far. Prediction: Those who have followed my writing throughout the season should know that I cover the Bulls regularily. Despite that, I want to give San Diego some love. I believe their top-6 forwards certainly have what it takes push Houston to the limit, but they'll be up against strong competition on the Bulls' blueline. It's a close series in every respect and I'd be shocked to see one team or the other run away with it. I'm still going with the Bulls, but I think it's going to take 7 games (4-3) with an overtime winner to decide it. --- And so it begins: The playoffs kick off tonight and I, for one, cannot wait to see how the VHLM shakes out. I'll be following these story lines through each round and updating you on the series so stay tuned for more! If you have any comments or disagree with one of my predictions, feel free to tell me! Lauren Lambert for VHL.com Claim for 11/25/24 (2651 words)

Great article, AJ! It's been a blast to be part of this team this season and that's because of all the work you did building the roster and a positive environment around the team! Can't wait to see what we can do in the playoffs!

Another awesome podcast! Really love your interviews and the humor you bring is always on point! Can't wait for the next! Also, let's do that interview soon! I'm ready anytime!

1. The regular season is almost done and playoffs are just around the corner. What is your favourite thing about playoffs? What is your least favourite? My favorite thing about playoffs is that it's a clean slate. Sure, home ice advantage goes to to the higher ranked team, but once the second season starts, nobody cares how many wins you racked up in the regular season, or how many points you scored. It's a brand new game and anyone who's in the dance has a chance. My least favorite part is the stress and the nerves, haha, I get way too nervous watching my team sometimes. It's exciting, of course, but I'm just a nervous wreck... 2. On the topic of playoffs, Houston is projected to finish this season 4th-6th place in the VHLM standings. What does walking into the first round of playoffs as a 'middle of the pack' team mean? Are we underdogs? Are we just a first round exit? We may not be the most intimidating team in terms of what our regular season record shows, but it's better that way. I'd rather our opponents underestimate us and take us lightly than have them game planning every scenario. Of course, I want our opposition to bring their best game-- gotta beat the best to be the best-- but I'd rather be underestimated and overperform than overestimated and underperform. Less pressure that way...less nerves lol. 3. How was this season in the VHLM for you/your player? Were there any milestones reached? Any goals set that you accomplished? It was a fun season! The best part of it for me was watching our team grow week after week, everyone coming together and pulling towards the same goal. We all kind of knew that we probably wouldn't win the regular season, but we've been preparing for playoffs the whole time. In light of that, I'm happy with my individual performance. My main goal was to help the team in any way I can, whether that means scoring points or shutting down the opposition. Also, being a positive player in the locker room is important to me. I don't want to be someone who gets overly fixated on my own personal success at the detriment of the team or too down when the team goes through a rough patch. Sure, points are fun and recognition makes you feel nice, but I want to win a championship here in Houston, and everywhere I play for that matter, and on that front, we still have work to do. 4. The Houston Bulls are hosting a charity event where fans and community members can purchase their tickets to this weekend's "Bulls in the Spotlight". Each player on the team must perform a song of choice and sing it to the crowd... what song is your player choosing to sing? Wow, that is a good question! I guess I'm an okay singer, I play a bit of guitar too, but singing in front of a big crowd is definitely something that gets the nerves going. I think I'd probably sing Without Me by Halsey, but idk... Way too many good songs and way too little singing talent on my end to do anything too crazy. 5. The charity event was a smash hit (pretend we are in the future)! We raised so much money that we could buy every bitcoin ever invented, we're RICH rich!! With unlimited money in the bank account, what should the team spend all this money on? A new arena? Team private jet? A 10ft tall statue of your favourite GM (me)? I have a hard time believing that the event was a smash success with me and Vencko singing, but whatever you say! 10ft statue?!?! Don't sell yourself short! With unlimited money, we're building you something at least 100ft tall! Think Colossus of Rhodes, but bigger! Also, we're throwing a party and we're inviting everyone's favorite musicians/bands to play live, cost be damned. Wait... wasn't this event for charity? Maybe we should actually do the charity thing, start up a hockey program for kids in Houston who might not have the resources to play. That would honestly be a lot of fun to be a part of, so yeah, let's do that. Don't worry, @AJW, we'll still build your statue. That's a non-negotiable. 6. Last but not least, it's Valentine's Day on February 14th. I will personally be studying for my midterm while eating chocolates alone, what will you be doing for Cupid day? I've got class all day, ugh, but I've got a date tomorrow night! Wish me luck!

Love the style of this, great graphic!

Thanks, I appreciate that!

1. I believe 100% that Ovechkin will beat Gretzky's goal record. I just don't see him retiring until it's done, even if that takes a year or two longer than anticipated. I also think he's just been unlucky this season and that his current goal scoring rate doesn't reflect the chances and opportunities he's produced. 2. My favorite active player in the NHL is Joe Pavelski. He was always just an inspiring player, being a late round pick and working his way up to become a top line center for the Sharks, and then going on to set new career highs in Dallas in the twilight of his career. He was my favorite Shark of all time and my favorite captain of the team. Still choked that they never re-signed him, but glad he'll have a shot at winning with Dallas. My favorite women's player is Claire Thompson. Even though she's Canadian, I was just super impressed with her play on the international level and I'm excited to see her play more for NY in the PWHL. It's also pretty cool that she's finishing med school while continuing her pro hockey career. 3. How many days are left until the end of the season? Yeah, that many. The parade is on! Cancel the parade! God, who knows, I'm so glad I'm not a Leafs fan. No offense to Leafs fans! --- 1. If you could have the skillset of any hockey player, past or present, which player would you choose? And why does their skillset appeal to you? 2. Everybody has their favorite team, and many people have a second team that they'll root for after their main is eliminated, but who is your guilty pleasure team? Which team do you quietly root for but kinda feel guilty about it or embarrassed to admit it? (E.g. As a Sharks fan, right now that team is the Ducks for me) 3. The VHL/VHLE/VHLM playoffs are coming up, what is your most memorable playoff moment in real life?

In this article, I'll be highlighting 3 players who were added to their current team midway through this current season. Each of these players have come into their respective locker rooms and have been immediate contributors on the ice, quickly becoming one of their team's top players. The nature of the beast is such that midseason additions are more likely to have success on a team with available ice time and holes in the roster than on a competing team at the top of the table. These players, however, have made the most of their opportunities and have managed to step into top roles, despite being late additions, and should be well sought after in the drafts this offseason. C - Tyler Lawson @Nyx - Houston Bulls (49GP - 20G - 30A - 50P) A late addition to the Houston Bulls roster, Tyler Lawson immediately grabbed the opportunity to play on the Bulls' top line alongside Trimiskez Artav and Chris Reynolds Jr. He's since been replaced on that line by trade deadline acquisition Antonia Bucatini, but has continued to be a regular contributor for the Bulls in a second line role. His current line with Zinek and Ecker has been heating up as of late, in no small part because of Lawson's contributions. Lawson is a high-end scorer and his 20 goals in 49 games punctuate that claim. He also demonstrates well-balanced peripheral attributes which make him a solid player wherever he ends up in the lineup. Since joining the Bulls, he's shown consistent development and determination and could be steal for whichever team drafts him if his current trajectory continues. RW - Anthony Simmons II @Starchychaff - Mississauga Hounds (31GP - 17G - 19A - 36P) Though he's not a first generation player, Anthony Simmons II has joined up with a struggling Mississauga squad with the promise of opportunity this season. The right winger has played primarily on the Hounds' first line alongside Loic Trepagoat and Wernher von Braun. At 6'8" and 200lbs, Simmons II is a big body that will be highly coveted in upcoming drafts. He compliments his size with well balanced passing, scoring, skating, and puck handling abilities that are above average for his age category. Perhaps most revealing of his positive impact on the ice is his +3 rating on a Hounds team that has a -73 goal differential this season. Though the Hounds aren't going anywhere quickly, the future is bright for Anthony Simmons II. D - Carson Tripp @Cartripp14 - Saskatoon Wild (44GP - 11G - 32A - 43P) A first generation player for the Saskatoon Wild, Carson Tripp is the team's top scoring defenseman, despite joining the team after the start of the regular season. He's currently playing on the second pairing alongside Cale Makar, but with solid scoring and passing ability, he's been able create offense from the blueline, taking advantage of minutes on the team's top powerplay. He does leave something to be desired in terms of defensive ability, but so far he has been able to outscore his deficiencies, even on a Saskatoon team that has committed to resetting for next season. If Tripp can continue his development, he promises to be a quality option for a number of teams in the upcoming drafts. Lauren Lambert for VHL.com Claimed for 02/18/24

In other news, chatter is heating up about GM AJW as a frontrunner for GM of the year, and the competition is not even close!

It's another week in the books for the Houston Bulls and the headlines continue to write themselves, especially as they pertain to rookie Czech goalie, Ondra Vencko @Mutti. Last week, we had an exclusive opportunity to sit down with Vencko to discuss the early season controversy and learn a little about what makes him tick, both on and off the ice. As he was leaving our studio that very same afternoon, the eclectic puck stopper was assaulted by a man who was apparently shouting at him in German. This story was first reported by Ben Icio del Torro of the Houston Gossiper who reached out to Vencko for comment after the incident. "It was more of a scare than an attempt on my life," said Vencko, reflecting on the attack. Concluding his article, del Torro expressed concern about the incident affecting Vencko's game in a negative way, however it seems that perhaps a good slap was exactly what he needed to find his true form. DISCLAIMER: We do not condone violence of any kind! Since the assault, Vencko has had an outstanding week, recording the first shutout of his VHLM career and backstopping the Bulls to a 4-1 victory over the league-leading Philadelphia Reapers just last night. In the words of legendary Pittsburgh Penguins commentator, Mike Lange, "Slap me silly!" In all seriousness, perhaps the catharsis and adrenaline rush of the incident was exactly what Vencko needed to get him out of his own head. Goalies are known to be notoriously cerebral and there's no doubting Vencko's drive to perform. Maybe this was a case of Vencko just gripping the stick a little too tightly, getting lost in the game between the ears and missing the one on the ice in front of him. Leave the rusty razorblades and hacksaw-backscratchers at home, Mr. Lange, this time a slap seems to have done the trick. Sticking with Lange-isms, Vencko seems to have reacquired his liquor license and the brews are flowing freely . . . maybe a little too freely. I spoke with a reputable source yesterday who claimed that Vencko, along with a good number of other Bulls players, have taken up the practice of drinking beers before each game. It's hard to complain with the team's solid play as of late, but one does wonder if this kind of ritual pre-gaming is what management had in mind when emphasizing preparation. We reached out to GM @AJW on the matter, but for now he has declined to comment. It is important to note, however, that while Vencko himself is 22 and of legal age, there are a number of young Bulls who are well below the legal drinking age. Nathan Ecker @Nathan_8, for example, is still only 16. Here's another Lange line for ya, "Let's go hunt moose on a Harley!" A batch of pre-game brews might explain why the Bulls have been called "bush league" by some critics this season, though "beer league" is perhaps more apropos. The Bulls are the VHLM league leaders with 1611 hits through 65 games this season. Unfortunately, their physical play has at times been reckless, leading to the 2nd most penalty minutes in the league with 713. Compounding the issue, their penalty kill hasn't been up to snuff, currently sitting 2nd lowest in the league at 76.58%. They have done well to compensate for a bad PK with the league's best powerplay, clicking at a rate of 25.28%. If the Bulls can reign in the penalty minutes while maintaining their physicality and powerplay success, they'll be in good shape for a long playoff run-- beer bellies not withstanding. "Oh, Lord Stanley, Lord Stanley! Bring me the brandy!" Another legendary Lange line that the Bulls surely hope to hear adapted should they make it to the Founder's Cup Final. Oh, Founder, Lord Founder bring them them . . . a pounder of beer? Yeah, the rhyme still needs work. Recent power rankings have the Bulls a close 2nd to the Las Vegas Aces, while the Reapers, who have scarcely struggled all season, remain a legitimate threat to any team's playoff aspirations. The Season 92 playoffs are shaping up to be a hotly contested affair with contenders throughout the bracket. With less than one week left in the regular season, it's time to put the pedal through the floor. "Get in the fast lane, Grandma! The bingo game is ready to roll!" With the number of contenders in the VHLM, Mr. Lange's bingo analogy is a good one. It really could come down to luck of the draw as teams fight for home ice advantage and favorable first round matchups. In my view, there are no easy outs and each round promises to feature fantastic battles between the league's best. Come Wednesday night, we'll know who the Bulls will draw in the first round. The team is certainly rounding into form and is resembling the contender we were promised at the beginning of the season by Bulls brass. I, for one, have the Bulls on my bingo card, so let's hope that this young core is ready to run come playoff puck-drop. .·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·. Lauren Lambert for VHL.com Claimed for 02/18/2024

I have since realized this lol and will be using the index for any future inquiries. Thanks though!

Got it, just purchased the second one. Thanks for your help!

ah gotcha! Ok I'd like to recall OV from 23 --> 13, and then from 13 --> 3 I bought a second recall for that so there should be the two now.