Which David Can Beat Goliath?

[Erik Summers 451]

Which David Can Beat Goliath?

 

There is a problem in the VHLM. A super-team has formed and, for the moment, they look unstoppable. It seems unlikely at the midpoint of the season that any team with unseat Saskatoon for the top spot in the regular season. However, playoffs are a different beast, so lets look at the top contenders to knock off the giant and see who has the best shot.

 

Philadelphia Reapers

The Reapers' roster won't wow you, in fact, outside of Bud Knight, there probably isn't anyone on it that you have ever heard of. However, Philadelphia's biggest asset is their depth. Star players can't be on the ice all the time, and goals scored by your fourth line count just as much as goals scored by your first. Could the Reapers beat the Wild today? If the recent massacre that the league is trying to pass off as a hockey game between these two teams is any sign, then no. However, if player development at the Reapers' organization can grow talent across all four lines, they might stand a chance by the playoffs.

 

Chances of beating Saskatoon: They'd make a movie out of it if it happened.

 

Mississauga Hounds

At the end of last season, if you had asked me to predict the winner of the next cup, I would have put my money on Mississauga. They had it all is S68, well, except a goalie. That lacking spot in net was their downfall last season, but now they have Spyro and, while he isn't necessarily an all-star, he is miles ahead of whoever they pulled off the street and stuck in the net last year. However, the early season trades were not kind to the Hounds, as they watch top players from around the league flock to their competition it exchange for picks that Mississauga simply couldn't offer. And, after hording picks for one of the shallowest draft classes in recent memory, the Hounds found themselves a bit underwhelming. Nevertheless, they look to be a series contender at the midway point of the season. Defense is going to be key in taking down Saskatoon, and that is the Hounds' specialty. If Spyro can continue to develop into a top-tier net minder, Mississauga might just have a shot.

 

Chances of beating Saskatoon: Do you believe in miracles?

 

Mexico City Kings

The only team to beat Saskatoon this season, the Kings are probably are best hope of seeing the giant fall. Sure, that was before the Wild added stars like Edu Stava and likely defenseman of the year, Danny DeYeeto, but even in their more recent meetings, Mexico City has played Saskatoon closer than any other team. Just as with the Hounds, defense is going to be the Cartel's only chance against this scoring machine and the Kings' defensive core is the strongest in the league. Erik Summers, Odin Omdahl, Oscar Lagesson, and Alex Armstrong have combines to block more shots than any other team in the league. This group of defenseman also specializes in controlling puck possession, which is going to be essential about the Wild. They can't score if you don't give them the puck! This biggest factor for the Kings going forward is going to be figuring out their goalie situation. Nicolas Fomba wasn't great early in the season, but he has certainly been making strides in the right direction. If the young goalie continues to progress, the Kings have the best chance to upset Saskatoon in the playoffs.

 

Chances of beating Saskatoon: James “Buster” Douglas KO's Mike Tyson.