Chicago and Moscow both eliminated, what's next?

[badcolethetitan 938]

Chicago and Moscow both eliminated, what's next?

 

Another unfortunate year for Chicago

 

The Chicago Phoenix fell to the Seattle Bears in the wildcard series, losing 3-1. Chicago was unfortunately outclassed across the board, where they just weren't able to get over the hump to take them further in the playoffs. With two overtime losses, the bounces were just not going in there way and unfortunately, they fell short. Looking forward to the next season, they'll be losing Francesco Mancini and Legacy Gaming, two important depth pieces for the team. Mancini in his final season put up 72 points in 72 games played, and was a +35, playing on the first line. Legacy Gaming on the flip side had 54 points in 72 games played, with a -19 on the second line. Regardless, they're going to have to find some replacements as they'll be losing 55 goals scored between the two and they'll have to find them fast. The team's window is closing and it might be one last run with this team before their goalie retires, once that happens the team is basically done for barring a miracle. It'll be interesting to see what Chicago does next off-season, as they'll probably be selling and they'll load up on picks.

 

Moscow falls just short

 

The Moscow Menace coming into the season looked like favorites to win the cup and with their regular season performance, it looked more solidified. However, we all know that's know how it works, as Moscow ended up falling to Davos in the second round. An intense series which was much closer than people will see on face value, especially a goaltending masterclass by Merome Dilson who helped carried his team to the next round. As for Moscow, they were able to take out Malmo, but fell short of getting another ring and the team most likely is going to be split up. On the out is most likely Catia Goncalves, or Jarmo Ruutu, as they're the oldest parts of the roster (aside from David Rashford and Joseph Reed). A mix of these players will most likely be shipped and it's looking like George Richmond will finally be the top center and have to carry a lot of the heavy load. Richmond had a great regular season, finally eclipsing the 100 point mark, with 43 goals and 66 assists in 72 games played. In the playoffs, Richmond put up 13 points in 10 games played and led all of Moscow in points in the playoffs. He'll have to step up against next season with the departures of these players said above, but ultimately, he should be able to start carrying most of the load for Moscow. Richmond's contract is now up and people are wondering if he's going to stay with Moscow, but he has expressed interest in staying with the team. There is a very small chance he gets moved, but I wouldn't count on it as it wouldn't make much sense for Moscow unless the value is huge. Richmond hasn't publicly stated what his plans long term are, but he wants to stay with Moscow for a while. It'll be interesting to see if he ends up going somewhere else in his career, or if he decides to stay with Moscow until retirement.