Western Canadian Hockey League

Rebuilding is painful

2012-02-29T12:52:00.001-05:00

So young, they should be illegal

While several teams are ramping up for a WCHL Cup push this year, there are always a handful of teams who have elected to blow things up and retool their teams for next year.

The Chicago Blackhawks and Dallas Stars have done just that, and while the road might be full of riches long-term, right now it contains nothing but heartache.

"This sucks," said Hawks GM Nick Barretta, watching on as his team got beat 3-1 by the San Jose Sharks last night. "It's for a good reason, we will be good down the road, but man does this team friggin blow right now."

Like a Thai hooker offering a two-for-one coupon, the Hawks indeed do blow, long and hard. Losers of their last ten games, Chicago has mustered a league low 15 points so far this season and are already 19 points out of a playoff berth.

"It's hard to get up for the games," said veteran forward Shawn Horcoff. "In fact, it's hard to get up for anything. My wife was complaining about my erectile dysfunction last night. I can't score on the ice or at home."

An artists rendition of the Blackhawks season thus far

While many fans and pundits felt Chicago was overdue for a rebuild, the Dallas Stars implosion this year caught many by surprise. After former GM Darren Mathieu's left to head north to Winnipeg to take over the Jets, new GM Owen Lin took the helm and immediately made it clear he was doing a full rebuild of the Stars.

The result, a club with the league's lowest winning percentage at just .222 who are scoring at a league worst clip of 2.17 goals per game.

"It's been difficult, but we need to stay the course," opined Lin. "I just know Patrick Eaves and Wotjek Wolski are the answer."

The answer to what is the question. The Stars have a bright future with 10 first round picks in the next five drafts, but until then there is precious little to go on. Only three players in the entire organization under the age of 24 are under contract, with only defenseman Justin Schultz expected to amount to anything from that group.

"This team's play stinks like dirty ass on a hot Alabama afternoon in a swamp. I can't believe I have to wrap up my career playing for this shithole of a team. FML," said 40-year-old blueliner Sean O'Donnell who is tied for the second worst plu-sminus on the squad at -22.

Dallas took a clear directional change when they started their rebuild

Not all teams started the rebuild early. Florida has just begun their rebuild under new GM Jason Dupras, who was hired last week.

"We hope to install a new vision for the future. That will come through the draft," explained Dupras.

That doesn't sit well with everyone.

"I'm tired of the motherf$%^ing rebuilds on this motherf%^&ing team," exclaimed Ray Whitney. "All we ever do is trot some new f%^&ing kids in here and go all bat $h!t crazy over them, then let the f^&*ers go in the motherf&^%ing waiver draft. This is hogcum."

The Panthers salute all 17 of their fans after another loss, 5-3 to Montreal on Monday night.

Power Rankings return

2012-02-21T09:50:00.001-05:00

From Philly to failure, the power rankings capture all

As we approach the half way point in the season, I approached Trent about bring back the power rankings. So while I sit here in the airport in Toronto I look at the hottest current teams in the league. In this edition of the new power rankings it will be a short version briefly giving only the top ten and two quick risers and two teams that look to be going in the wrong direction.

1. Philadelphia Flyers, currently sitting in 4th in the eastern conference and quickly shooting up the ladder with 9-0-1 record looks to be challeneging to move up still.

2. San Jose Sharks, have move in to 2nd spot in the west with just a solid performance as the top team with a 9-1 record, this team seems to be rounding in to form simiar to last season.

3. Pittsburgh Penguins are sitting in the top spot in the after a slower start, however this team has plenty of talent to make and continue to hold that spot, with a 8-2 record in their last ten games.

4. Calgary Flames are holding down the top spot in the west and overall lead by a marginal lead over the other leaders in the power rankings, recording 8 wins in their last ten and a 6 point lead on the competition, time will tell if this will hold.

5. Anaheim Ducks, are only a few points behind the leaders despite their recent loss they continue to hold their own in the tough upper half in the west, this team is 6-4 in their last ten. The big question for this team can martin Brodeur hold up over the whole season to lead them to a playoff run like his younger days.

6. Carolina Hurricanes this team looks to begin hitting its stride, with two consectutive wins over the Ott-sens to hold off and be a lead in this weaker division that seems to have built some strenght and move towards competiting

7. New York Rangers, have built up a head of steam to get themselves in to this edition going a strong 8-2. And move into a playoff position.

8. Vancouver Canucks this team may not be at the top but with a solid GA this team finds it self in a play off position, and if they contiue to get solid goaltending, should able to move up.

Well I had good intentions of going further but vacation calls so 9. Boston Bruins 10. Montreal Canadiens.

Two hot teams 1.Phoenix Coyotes. 2. Buffalo Sabres these could continue to push the competition and move up.

Now two teams that are looking forward to the draft, and could use a win Florida Panthers and also the Chicago Blackhawks. Well first call to vacation, have a good week hope you enjoy this short rushed version.

-Noel Harrison
Ottawa Senators General Manager

Valentine's Day madness in the WCHL

2012-02-14T10:35:00.001-05:00

Plenty of puckster puckering up

It's Valentine's Day today and despite what some may think, the league filled with some of the manliest men in the world does indeed have a soft side for those they love.

"I'm going to get him, ah, shit, um, yeah I meant her, I'm going to get her some chocolates, and roses, and tickets to the opera," said Winnipeg Jets General Manager Darren Mathieu of his plans on what some dub the most romantic day of the year.

Others started early, as two St. Louis Blues players were caught sharing their feeling on the bench during game action earlier this week.

(Left) Marian Gaborik and Tomas Kopecky, friends with benefits? (Right) Ville Leino kisses Mikhail Grabovski after the two combined for a goal

Is all this man love normal? According to the Toronto Maple Leafs Drew Doughty, it' shockingly normal, at least in Toronto.

"Like totally," said Doughty. "It's just a great bonding experience, nothing can replace it. It's totally awesome, OMG. Seriously, you have to try it, it's like candy. Is that why they call gay guys fudge packers?"

The Maple Leafs in fact were the first time in the history of life to announce they were drafting only gay players. Their farm club has adopted the unofficial name "Toronto Love Tunnelers" and each time a player scores, he is serenaded with a chorus of "Hey, big fella," from the crowd. The team has even gone as far as to hold a leather and whips night, with anyone wearing assless pants getting in free.

The Toronto "Love Tunnelers" gather for a team photo following a 6-1 loss.

It's not always this easy to express your love for a hockey player on St. Valentine's Day.

"Sometimes you got to be a bit secret about it," admitted Habs GM Marco Castillo. "I mean, you an't just go out and French kiss a guy at centre ice. One time, this guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew me needed some help. He was all in love with one of former players Clarke MacArthur, like big time crush. It was really sickening, ball gags and ass beads. Really messed up stuff. So we traded Clarke to Philadelphia where this guy lives. You know Philadelphia, city of brotherly love and all. I figured if anyone knew who to settle some man-lovin, it'd be Doug Van Strepen in Philly."

Van Strepen celcined comment on the issue, and MacArthur is no longer with the team. Van Strepen did say that "ass play" isn't tolerated in the locker room though.

"We play like ass most of the time anyways, they want to get into the hanky-panky, they can do it on their own time," said Van Strepen.

The rumours of man-love aren't limited to the liberal east either. Out in Calgary, the Flames are quietly being nicknamed the 'Flamers" after a series of rumours came out about nude wrestling during practice.

"We were practicing fighting technique, that's all," said Lawson Cham, Flames GM. "Doing it nude is normal, that's what my peewee coach taught me."

Artists rendition of a fight in Calgary

"Only steers and queers come from Calgary, and none of those hockey players have horns so that kind of narrows it down," said the San Jose Sharks Zdeno Chara. "I bet they could suck a golf ball through a garden hose," he added, stealing a line from Full Metal Jacket.

However Valentine's Day is celebrated around the WCHL, the man love is sure to keep going well beyond that. And that's ok to the league brass.

"I don't give a crap, really," said New York Rangers GM and Player Agent Andrew Don. "Those mofos can do whatever they want, just don't come callin around this baller. My poop chute is a one way street yo, I ain't never going to be into that shiznit. For real, dog."

Shocking faces rise in the East

2012-02-08T16:39:00.001-05:00

Canes; B's rule roost at quarter-mark

When predictions for the top teams in the Eastern Conference came about, the usual names surfaced. Pittsburgh, who won the Season 12 WCHL Cup and the always great in the regular season New York Rangers were most common, but the defending Eastern Conference Champion New York Islanders also had their supporters. Even the annually playoff struggling Philadelphia Flyers were given a nod or two as possible regular season champions for the Eastern Conference title.

But the Bruins and Hurricanes?

Few predicted that after 20 games, these two teams would rank one-two in the conference, but that's what has happened. Boston is riding a six game winning streak to a 17-3 record, including a perfect 5-0 record in extra time. Bruins General Manager Brett Hudson couldn't be happier.

"It's awesome. I knew we'd kick ass, but this is kicking the ass of the ass kicking I thought we'd give everyone. It's like a double ass-kicking adventure," wooted Hudson, before proceeding to punt a midget dressed as a leprechaun. "It's good luck to kick a leprechaun," stated Hudson, adding he wants to "get those lucky charms."

This little guy went for quite the ride after Bruins GM Brett Hudson celebrated another victory by kicking him across the room.

The charge shouldn't come as a big shock given Boston was up 3-2 in the first round over the Islanders before falling in seven games. They came the closest of any Eastern Conference team to beating the Islanders in the post-season.

"We're suffering from PPS -Post Playoff Syndrome - and there's no cure baby other kicking some ass. So it's boots out boys," exclaimed Hudson.

Mike "Pedro can pump my gas" McFarland was just as excited about his team's performance.

"I told Blake Wheeler he better start to use his 6'6 asthmatic ass to score some Mother%*&^ing points or he's out on his ear to Gnome, Alaska by dogsled, and he'd be the dog," said McFarland, gripping a picture of Sam Pollack in one hand, clearly smudged by the lipstick McFarland was wearing earlier in the day. "He did. Like Sammy said, sometimes the best trades you make are the ones you don't make. Right, Sammy? Sammy says I'm right. Sammy's good to me. I love Sammy."

The Canes are 11-6-2, but thanks to being the best in the weak Adams Division, they sit second in the Eastern Conference, despite holding fewer points than four teams below them.

"If those teams don't like it they can, in the words of Sean Connery on Saturday Night Live, suck it long, and suck it hard. Just like Trebek's mom," uttered McFarland, before emphatically crotch-chopping the throng of reports around him, climbing to the top of Roberto Luongo's locker, cracking open a beer, pouring it in his mouth and then spewing it all over the crowd of reporters and photographers below.

"It's time to open some cans of whoop-ass yo boyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy," shouted McFarland before taking a pic and hammering into a keg in the midle of the locker room.

Time will tell if this is a matter of fact for the Bruins and Canes, or if it's just a short term burst of energy and the real leaders of the East will emerge. Until then, Boston and Carolina can stand in the spotlight for a while longer at last.

Full court press

2012-02-03T10:36:00.001-05:00

League stocked in GM's once more

After a mini-shuffle and one new face, the WCHL is moving forward with a full slate of General Managers one again.

"It's always good to have all the teams filled," said WCHL Commissioner Trent Allen. "It makes things more enjoyable for everyone and opens up trade talks and communication lines that otherwise wouldn't be there.

The Chicago Blackhawks filled their temporary shortage at GM Thursday night, announcing the hiring of Nick Barretta as the clubs first new lead hand in several years. Former GM Will Englesby left the club and relocated to Detroit last week to take over as General Manager with the Red Wings.

"I'm excited to be here and I think I can make this team epically awesome," said Barretta in Japanese for some reason. "Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto."

Fans celebrate the hiring of Nick Barretta as new Red Wings GM by breaking out in an impromptu mass robot dance

Barretta is already rumoured to have placed the Hawks best player, Lubomir Visnovsky, on the trading block. Clearly unafraid to make changes, the new GM is eager to make changes to a Chicago franchise which only two seasons ago were one win away from a WCHL Cup.

In Detroit meanwhile, Englesby hasn't made any definitive plans yet, preferring to stay the course with his roster.

"What??? Speak into my good ear dang it," was all Englesby would say when repeatedly asked what his plans were with the Wings, before going into a tirade, yelling about "young whippersnappers being on his lawn." Eventually Englesby nodded off into a slumped over sleep, allowing his false teeth to dangle precariously from his mouth before landing on the floor where his 28-year-old dog, named Skelly after the 1950's TV icon Red Skelton, picked them up.

Yes, another memorable Will Englesby moment for sure.

Will Englesby and Flyers GM Doug VanStrepen seen discussing a possible trade at last years GM meetings.

2010 Draft Rankings

2012-02-01T15:24:00.001-05:00

Here are the updated 2010 draft rankings, guys. There are as of Feb 1/2012:

Flames; Ducks dominating early

2012-01-27T12:43:00.001-05:00

The Western Conference is normally the domain of the San jose Sharks in the regular season. The perrenial powerhouse have captured more regular season titles than can be counted off the top of ones' head, but this year those same Sharks could be in tough to repeat last seasons dominating 134 point effort.

Starting the year 7-3-2 is a good start, but the Sharks face stiff opposition from the Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks, two teams who have underachieved at times in recent yeas themselves.

The Flames are rolling along on a nine-game winning streak at the moment and sit tops in the WCHL with a a12-2 record. During their nine game onslaught, the Flames have torched the opposition, outscoring them 42-18 along the way. Five of those wins have come against conference opponents.

"We are playing the way we should be," said GM Lawson Cham. "This team is a beast and I've just let them out of their cage, baby. Roooaaaaaarrrrrrrr!"

Flames GM Lawson Cham was in full groove mode with girlfriend Ivanna Humpya after the Flames won their ninth straight game.

Leading the way are forwards Steven Stamkos, Mike Richards and Daniel Briere, who have combined for 29 goals and 65 points in 14 games this season. Defenseman Dustin Byfuglien has posted 17 points in 14 games as well to rank second in league scoring for defensemen.

"I'm just giving 100 per cent every night, sticking to our system, when we play our game we can compete wth anyone, give respect to the opposition, insert cliche here," said Steven Stamkos who is the only player in the WCHL still to have scored in every game of the season for his team.

Mike Richards just shook his head while listening to Stamkos sound off.

"What a dork," said Richards to his young teammate. "We are hotter than a habinaro pepper and we'll burn your ass even worse. Booooyyyaaaaaaaaa!"

Richards then gave a shout out to Carolina Hurricanes GM Mike McFarland for no apparent reason.

"The Canes are doing a good rebuilding their team. Looks like the Cornrow Kid is getting smart. Maybe he stopped being a cheap (deleted) bastard and learned it's not just (deleted) who should be pumping his (expletitive deleted)...I mean gas," said Richards of the Hurricanes who are leading the Adams Division currently.

Mike "Cornrows" McFarland was the subject of praise and scorn from the Flames' Mike Richards.

The Flames aren't alone in their hot streak though, as the Anaheim Ducks are also rolling along on their own seven game winning streak, leaving them just two points behind the Flames with a record of 11-2.

"We rock out with our sticks out," said the normally bashful Sidney Crosby.

Crosby has a lot to brag about though, as he leads the entire league is scoring with 32 points in 13 games, a pace that will see Crosby score 202 points if he maintains the pace for all 82 games. The next highest total is 24 from fellow Ducks teammate Logan Couture.

The Ducks and Flames have a lot more to prove other than they are hot right now though. Both teams have been blessed with talented rosters for several seasons, but in recent years have failed to do much in the playoffs. The Flames have been bounced in the first round the past two years, both times in five games. The Ducks have reached the second round both years after struggling to even make the playoffs, including knocking out th Flames last year. Both times though the Ducks have been dropped in the second though, including a four-game sweep at the hands of the Sharks last year.

"We want that silver mug. Beer tastes good out of it," said long-time Duck Duncan Keith. "The ladies love you long time too when you win it. They think it's hot. When we won it a few years back, I partied so hard the day I had with the cup. It was crazy, like The Hangover movies or something. I woke up in Switzerland sleeping with Kathy Bates under a sheepskin blanket with a pet orangutan named Jim and a tattoo of a she-male on my left butt cheek. It took four days for the cup to turn up in Mongolia. No idea how it got there but when they found it it was full of only orange Reese Pieces and had cobra fangs sticking out of it. It was a really messed up time and I had to go through detox for a meth addiction. It was awesome."

Duncan Keith has no memory of it, but he was spotted in the German gay pride parade during a wild bender with the WCHL Cup.

The Ducks and Flames will be eyeing getting their hands back on that prize this post-season, but until then it's time to make some hay in the regular season nd earn a good seed.

"Yep, you want that top spot," agreed Ducks netminder Martin Broduer. "It's key. It means you get to face some crap team that sucks monkey balls. That reminds me of a story about the Pittsburgh Penguins cup celebrations after Season 12 year. Long story short, (Penguins GM) Patrick Matthews has a restraining order against him from the San Francisco City Zoo. That monkey still sits in the corner. Just smokes cigarettes all day, shake uncontrollably and scream if you show him a banana. Really weird."

George the monkey hasn't been the same since a visit from the Penguins Patrick Matthews last summer.

League full of GM's; activity

2012-01-19T17:15:00.001-05:00

The pace continues to heat up for the WCHL, as a new season has bred a flurry of activity.

The league has started off on fire, as a very active waiver draft was followed up with a busy first week of the season. Several teams have combined to commit to over a dozen deals since the season started, all in hopes of bettering their squads for a playoffs push - and beyond.

"This deal will set us over the top for sure," said Otto Graf, fan of the Nashville Predators, following his teams five-player swap that saw the Predators nab forwards Chad LaRose and Greg Campbell, and defenseman Dennis Wideman. "Greg Campbell is awesome!"

What a tool Fulmore is," said Heywood Jabuzzoff, a fan of the San Jose Sharks. "He deals Glencross and Daley for that. What an idiot."

The Sharks three cup titles are long in the rearview mirror.

Clearly not all fans are proud of their General Managers.

But at least now all fans have a GM, as the Columbus Blue Jackets finally filled their open seat with Serge Niles. Niles is expected to do big things for the Blue Jackets.

Blessed with talent such as Claude Giroux and Jason Spezza, firepower up front shouldn't be a problem. With Nikolai Khabibulin and Johan Hedberg in net though, the Blue Jackets have moreto be concerned about when it comes to keeping the puck out.

"It's like a retirement home between our pipes," said Blue Jackets fan Harry Nipples. "It's the Shady Pines Blue Jackets."

It will be just one of many situations to keep your eyes on for the rest of the season, as teams continue to mold their ever-changing squads in hopes of post-season glory.

Bad goaltending has always been a problem for the Blue Jackets.

Predators land new GM; Allen ends sabbatical

2012-01-13T12:30:00.001-05:00

After a year away from the General Managers chair, Trent Allen is back in the hot seat.

The veteran GM announced he has accepted the task of turning around a disfunctional Nashville Predators team, signing on to be their General Manager for the season.

"It's good to be back in the thick of things. Hopefully I can help the team out," said Allen.

Trent Allen was all smiles after being named the new GM of the Nashville Predators

Technically this will be the fifth team Allen has managed in the league, by far the most of any GM in league history. Allen though refutes this claim, pointing out that stints of one season in Anaheim, and just three games with the Panthers last year, were more custodial duties than anything else.

Indeed, Allen will likely be best remembered for seven seasons at the helm of the Calgary Flames, where he helped reconstruct a broken franchise into one which would go on to have three 100-plus point seasons and capture the WCHL Cup in Season 12.

Now Allen is hoping to replicate that success in Nashville.

"I think this team is actually better off than Calgary was, by far," said Allen. "That team had Petr Prucha, Jiri Hudler and then pretty much nothing. I remember Jason Ward as the top winger on the team. It was pretty slim pickings. Here, there is Zach Bogosian, Ondrej Pavelec, there are pieces. "

Zach Bogosian is deemed a piece of the future for the Nashville Predators by Allen, but the new GM quickly added that "no one is safe here."

"More importantly though, the Preds are in better shape off the ice than the Flames were. Calgary was almost bankrupt when I came onboard, and we had to gut the payroll severely for two seasons just to correct that problem. I remember trading draft picks for cash at one point."

Allen wasn't ready to determine any plans for the club, but did state there will likely be some trades done in order to turn around some issues for the club he's noticed. The primary focus will be to get some assets added to the club's farm team and prospects chart, both of which are pretty thin.

"You build a team from the draft out, I've always beleived that. I call it the revolving door, where if you draft well and properly, you should most of the time have a player who can step in and play in place of one that leaves for whatever reason. That's essentially what we built in Calgary, and we did it with only one first round pick. Granted that was Stamkos, but still, it can be done, it just takes hard work," said Allen.

Allen only signed a one-year deal, but said he was open to the possibility of extensions to the deal if both sides agreed. For now, he's just ready to get the work started.

"No one is being shopped, but at the same time no one is safe here," said Allen. "For to long this team has been at or near the bottom of the league standings. That has to change. I'm not saying it's the current crop of players' faults, but something needs to give to make this work here. I'm here to see that happens."

It's time to do some clean up in Nashville.

Blues claim big prize of off-season

2012-01-06T09:35:00.001-05:00

Gaborik expected to provide huge results after signing huge contract

In what was a very active free agency period, the St. louis Blues feel they landed the biggest fish in the pond, as star forward Marian Gaborik elected to bring his goalscoring prowess to the moonshine state of Missouri.

"I'm excited to be here. I feel this team can do good things next year and I hope to be a part of it," said the Slovakian sniper.

The Blues are a work in progress under General Manager Jesse Funkster, missing the playoffs last year by a narrow margin in the Western Conference. The hope is Gaborik will help push the Blues over that hump and into the post-season.

The golden-sticked Gaborik will be living like a King off his $51.25 million dollar deal he signed with the Blues.

"We feel we have added a great deal to our offense," explained Funkster. "With Ales Hemsky and Mike Cammalleri already here, this adds another top line element to our team and takes a lot of pressure off of our current players."

Gaborik, whose five-year, $51.25 million dollar deal was the largest of the off-season, is well accustomed to having success with a team. In Season 11, Gaborik was part of the Calgary Flames squad which found their way to winning the WCHL Cup.

I hope to repeat that here. It'd be a thrill," said Gaborik.

Ovie on the move

2011-12-30T11:57:00.001-05:00

Stars deal winger in big swap

After spending his entire career as a Dallas Star, Alexander Ovechkin awoke to the news he was shuffling off to Buffalo.

"Didn't see that coming," said the bulking Russian who had been the face of the franchise for several seasons. "We all knew changes were coming but I thought I'd be part of the future. I guess not."

The changes Ovechkin referred to are the ones the team expected to come after Owen Lin took over as the new General Manager of the Dallas Stars last week. Lin took over from long-time GM Darren Mathieu's, who recently left the Stars to go to Winnipeg in a similar role for the newly minted Winnipeg Jets.

Ovechkin, defenseman Mike Lundin and a 7th round pick in 2010 are moving to Buffalo, with a hefty ransom returning to the Stars. Phil Kessel and defenseman Ryan Whitney are the main pieces returning to the Stars, along with prospect Justin Schultz and two 1st round picks in 2013 and 2014 respectively. The Stars also received Chicago's 3rd in 2011 as part of the deal.

Looking to make a big splash as the new Sabres GM, Sahil Soni did just that, bringing in arguably the biggest name in the sport in Ovechkin. It is expected Ovechkin, as well as several other moves completed by Soni, will help bring the Sabres back to the playoffs after missing out by a single point last season.

Lin, meanwhile, was quoted recently as saying "I like to build through the draft and with youth," and this deal will afford him the luxury to do both. In addition to other recent trades, the Stars have added four first round picks to their arsenal.

"It's good for the league, but it's a shock for sure," said Trent Allen, WCHL Commissioner, on the deal. "You don't see guys like Ovie moving very often, but it does happen. I didn't think Crosby would be dealt, and he was, to a divisional rival of all places. Moves like these spur interest in trades and in the league."

It's not going to be all babes and booze for Ovechkin in Buffalo.

Can't Stop an Avalanche

2011-12-26T20:30:00.001-05:00

Avalanche win epic seven-game series

It was one for the ages.

One year after witnessing the upstart Detroit Red Wings nearly go the distance only to lose in a hard-fought seven game series to the Pittsburgh Penguins, the same thing happen last week in the WCHL as well. This time the Colorado Avalanche finally ended the improbable run of the New York Islanders with a seven game victory that was arguably the closest finals in league history.

"After watching the Avalanche roar out to a 2-0 series lead, then the Islanders come back and win three straight only to watch the Avalanche tie the series in game six in overtime -after tying the game with just four seconds left in regulation - I knew I would have no problem handing the WCHL Cup to whoever won it. Both were just so deserving," said WCHL Commissioner Trent Allen.

Indeed. Both teams battled hard to get to the finals, most notably the Islanders. One year after missing the playoffs with one of the most underachieving teams in league history, the slanders rolled back into the playoffs with a 107 point season. They then rallied from a 3-2 deficit to the Boston Bruins in round one to win 4-3 before once again rallying from a 2-0 deficit in round two against the Eastern Conference champion New York Rangers. In the third round they then proceeded to sweep the defending WCHL Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins.

Even in the finals, the Islanders rallied from being down 2-0 to go up 3-2 and held a one goal lead with four seconds left in game six before allowing the tying goal.

"To come that close and not get it, that's going to be tough," said long-time Islander Jarome Iginla. "But we have to build off this and try and return next year."

"Thank f%^king goodness," said Colorado Avalanche GM Ryan McClanahan, nearly floating from having a weight as heavy as a 10-ton brick come off his shoulders. "We've had these expectations for years and we kept coming up short year after year. When the Islamders came back after we won the first two, I was worried it was happening again. The guys really rallied, and that's a testament to their abilities and strengths."

When asked how he would be celebrating, McClanahan stated he had some stuff in mind, but wouldn't ellaborate. According to a receipt observed falling from McClanahan's pocket during the on-ice cup celebrations, the long-time GM purchased a pallet of whip cream, four canoe paddles, a car battery and nipple tassles. No word on if they are related to any post-Cup celebrations.

It could be a repeat performance. The Avalanche have every one of their players returning for next year and several elite prospects on the rise, meaning they could be even better.

"That's our goal," said McClanahan. "We want to be better every year and we know if we want to repeat, we will have to be."

Only one team in league history, The San Jose Sharks, have repeated as Cup champions. This year, the Pittsburgh Penguins became the only team other than the Sharks to win a cup one year and advance to the third round the following year. Pittsburgh didn't go home comepletely empty-handed though, as their farm team, the Wilkes-Barre Penguins, won the ACHL championship in seven games over the Abbotsford Heat.

Atlanta out; Winnipeg in and Canucks get a facelift

2011-12-13T11:50:00.001-05:00

The Winnipeg Jets are back in the WCHL.

After a season of anticipation, the WCHL has finally done what many expected all, along. The Atlanta Thrashers are now no more, and are on the move to Canada.

But the Thrashers are not moving to Winnipeg as many initially thought. Rather, the Thrashers are moving to Vancouver.

But wait, doesn't Vancouver already have the Canucks? How is this going to work.

"It's a bit complicated, but it's a deal we felt was for the best interest of the league," explained WCHL Commissioner Trent Allen. "The Thrashers boast the names of a few weel known former Vancouver Canucks players, such as Daniel and Henrik Sedin, Mason Raymond, Alexander Edler and Bryan Allen. We felt moving this team to Vancouver would be a way to make the market more appealing to new ownership."

So what is the new Vancouver franchise going to be called?

"The Canucks," said Allen.

Ummm....WTF?

"The current Vancouver Canucks are moving to Winnipeg. I'm pleased to announce the WCHL is returning to a market it never should have left, and Winnipeg is rejoining the WCHL as the Winnipeg Jets," said Allen.

Only downside to Atlanta moving is the lack of hot ice girls, but it's a fact Canucks women show more of the goodstuff anyways.

So, in summary, the Vancouver Canucks are now the Winnipeg Jets, and the Atlanta Thrashers are now the Vancouver Canucks.

It can make your head hurt.

"We felt there was plenty of excitement, even from within the league, to see a team in Winnipeg, so having a viable ownership for Winnipeg wouldn't be a problem, even as bad as the team has been playing," Allen explained.

The announcement comes on the heels of the Anaheim Ducks and Buffalo Sabres ownership changing hands. Allen stated he felt resolution on ownership for Vancouver, Winnipeg, Florida, Boston and Columbus would be finalized soon as well.

"We have some good candidates we are weighing out. There are no guarantees however."

The transfer of the Thrashers to Vancouver and the Canucks to Winnipeg is expected to be resolved in the coming days.

Jets fans go crazy in the streets at the news the WCHL is coming to Winnipeg.

"This is serious news for all of us," said long-time Jets fan Hue Ghwang. "It's been hard to handle being away from prime time hockey like this for so long."

The Jets have several tasks at hand, but announced they had signed on to a deal with Abbey Clancy to be the main ice girl for the upcoming season.

Abbey Clancy will be on the ice for the Jets in Season 14.

"That's easy to handle," confessed Hue Ghwang. "This day just keeps getting better and better."

Gary Bettman, for WCHL Commissioner who was responsible for having the Jets relocated to Phoenix 15 years ago, tried to call an impromptu press conference to defend his initial action all those years ago, but his feed was replaced in Winnipeg by a 30 minute revolving slideshow of

As Bettman (left) blabbered on, Irina Shayk graced the screens of TV's across Winnipeg and much of Canada Tuesday. More pictures of Irina Shayk from the TV broadcast are found below.

Final four holds no surprises

2011-12-10T16:37:00.001-05:00

In past years, the final four teams in the WCHL usually fields at least one Cinderella team. Last year it was the Detroit Red Wings, who powered through three of the best squads the WCHL had to offer before finally being closed out in seven games in the WCHL Cup finals by the Pittsburgh Penguins.

This year, that's not the case. In the Western Conference, the San Jose Sharks and Colorado Avalanche have ripped through the competition, losing a combined three games thus far, with both teams sweeping their second round opponents.

In the Eastern Conference meanwhile, the closest there is to an upset is the New York Islanders, who shocked the top seeded New York Rangers in the second round. Even then, the Islanders finished the season with 107 points and boast a whose who of elite names, so their presence in the conference finals is anything but a Cinderella story.

What will be interesting is to see whether two teams who have made a sport of failing to meet expectations can get the better of two teams who have succeeded in reaching them. The Sharks and Penguins both have cup rings to their name, with the Sharks having won four titles and the Penguins currently the defending WCHL Cup champions. As for the Avalanche and Islanders, despite having elite level talent for a number of seasons, both have failed miserably in the playoffs, with only one prior appearance in the conference finals each to their credit.

Will the proven prevail, or will the Avalanche and Islanders finally reach their long overdue goal of a finals appearance?

Western Conference

(1) San Jose Sharks vs. (3) Colorado Avalanche

The Sharks were the toast of the WCHL all-season long, and look like they are heating up again, having swept through a tough Anaheim Ducks squad in the second round. A pair of 15 game winning streaks are to the credit of the Sharks this season already, proving they can be hard to stop when they get hot. And right now they are hot.

For the Avalanche though, no one has been hotter these playoffs. Losing only once so far, the Avalanche have won seven in a row and blew through the Red Wings in the second round, one season after the Wings upset them in the second round. Looking like a team possessed, the Avalanche will likely face their toughest challenge here in this round against San Jose.

The Avalanche will need to reverse their regular season fortunes against the Sharks, where they lost all three games by a combined score of 10-4. One of those game did go to a shoot out however, an option that won't be available to San Jose this time around.

Prediction: San Jose in six games.

Eastern Conference

(3) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (4) New York Islanders

The Penguins are aiming to become only the second team in WCHL history to repeat as WCHL Cup champions, and they took a huge step towards that goal by beating the Atlanta Thrashers in round two. Only the Sharks have ever won a WCHL Cup one year and advanced to the third round the next year before Pittsburgh did just that this year, so the odds of a repeat grew dramatically.

For the Islanders though, playing nail-biting hockey is nothing new to them this post-season, so taking on the defending champs won't likely be very intimidating. One year after missing the playoffs entirely, the Islanders have knocked off the Boston Bruins in seven games in round one after trailing the series 3-2. They did one better in round two, defeating the top seeded Rangers in six games after trailing that series 2-0.

If the Islanders can avoid failing behind the Penguins here, they could push past the champs, as Pittsburgh has looked somewhat erratic these playoffs.

Prediction: New York Islanders in seven.

Ducks the lone Cinderella

2011-12-04T15:56:00.001-05:00

The big dogs in the WCHL playoffs certainly were barking loud in round one. Only two teams, which didn't have home-ice advantage, advanced to round two, both in the Western Conference.

The Detroit Red Wings did the trick, but as the fifth seed and last years Western Conference Champions, knocking off the surprising Edmonton Oilers, who were back in the playoffs for the first time in four seasons and just six points ahead of the red Wings in the regular season, it was hardly a shocker.

What was was the Anaheim Ducks. Coming in as the seventh seed, the Ducks finished 30 points behind the Calgary Flames in the regular season, the same Flames who were one of only four teams to win 50 games in regulation in the regular season. No problem for the Ducks, who sent the Flames flying home in five games, including two overtime victories. That matched the number of victories in extra time the Ducks had all season.

But now the Ducks are faced with trying to be the Cinderella story for the rest of the post-season, not an easy fact to face when every other team in the playoffs but the Atlanta Thrashers had at least 100 points in the regular season.

Here's a look at my predictions for round two in the WCHL:

Western Conference

(1) San Jose Sharks vs. (7) Anaheim Ducks

The Sharks were once again the model of consistency in the regular season, racking up 134 points to easily claim the President's Cup. They weren't the model of consistency in the playoffs, however, as the Dallas Stars pushed them to a hard-fought six game victory, including two overtime games which were split between the two teams. San Jose also got no help from starting netminder Cam Ward, who posted a.852 save percentage.

The Ducks meanwhile took hold of their series early against the Flames and, after a game two loss, rattled off three straight victories to earn a dance in round two. This is the second straight year the Ducks have struggled mightily for the first 50 games of the season, only to turn it on down the stretch and into the playoffs. In their last 27 games, including the playoffs, the Ducks are 19-6-2.

The Ducks were stopped last year by the Dallas Stars in round two, so expect Anaheim to be ready to ward off any post-season meltdown this time around, while San Jose is trying to get back to playoff glory after several strong regular seasons have faded away with early exits from the post-season.

The key to this series will likely be Cam Ward. A .852 save percentage won't fly against Crosby and Co.

Prediction: Anaheim in six.

(2) Colorado Avalanche vs. (5) Detroit Red Wings

Colorado is the poster child of playoff disappointments in the Western Conference. Year after year of great regular seasons have faded away under playoff scrutiny, and this year could be the same unless the Avs knock off the Red Wings and move on to round three.

No easy task to achieve though. The Red Wings looked like easy cannon fodder last year, only to defeat the Flames, Avalanche and Dallas Stars before finally being dropped in seven games by the Pittsburgh penguins in the cup finals. The Red Wings are off to a good start this year as well, having bounced the Oilers in six games.

If the Avalanche can get a realistic return from their stars, they will win this series, but hasn't that been the case for the past several seasons?

Prediction: Colorado in seven.

Eastern Conference

(1) New York Rangers vs. (4) New York Islanders

Two teams who not only share a geographical area but also a level of talent few others have achieved finally square off in one of the longest overdue match-ups in the playoffs.

The Rangers once again dominated the regular season and the first round, but now they need to see that carry over to the second round after being bounced last season by the Philadelphia Flyers. The Rangers will do just that if Henrik Lundqvist and his lights out .950 save percentage continue.

The Islanders meanwhile are working hard to erase the joke of a season they had last year when they failed to even make the playoffs for the first time in WCHL history. Sneaking past the Bruins in seven games after trailing 3-2 in the series is a good step, but the Rangers are on a whole other level. Jerome Iginla's six goals in seven games will need to continue to see the rebound season move along to round three.

Prediction: New York rangers in six games.

(2) Atlanta Thrashers vs. (3) Pittsburgh Penguins

With rumours swirling around of their eventual relocation, the Thrashers looked dead in the water against the Flyers in the opening round, suffering two straight home defeats to open the series. Wondering if they would ever play in Atlanta again, the Thrashers showed they have plenty of moxie in the tank, winning four straight games after that, three in Philadelphia, to make it to round two and a date with the Penguins.

Pittsburgh may not have home ice advantage this round, but the Thrashers can only thank a very weak division for that. Pittsburgh actually posted 25 more regular season points than the Thrashers and is the defending WCHL Cup champs. Knocking off the Flyers is nothing compared to taking down the Penguins, who are trying to become just the second team in WCHL history to win back-to-back WCHL Cup titles. Of note, not only has no team other than the Sharks won back-to-back titles, no other has won more than one WCHL title period, so that is something working in Atlanta's favor.

Prediction: Pittsburgh in six games.

The playoffs are ready to roll

2011-11-27T14:48:00.000-05:00

The playoffs are now here, and for sixteen teams, it's a chance to show they are the elite force in the WCHL. The Pittsburgh Penguins will try to do what only one other team has ever done; repeat as cup champions, but it won't be easy. The sixteen team field features seven teams which at one point have won the WCHL Cup, including the past four winners and the mighty San Jose Sharks, who have won four WCHL Cups in their history.

But to get to hoist the cup, the first step is getting out of the first round alive. Many teams have been upset in the opening round of the playoffs, while many a cinderella team showed their true colors right about now.

Who will win and live on, and who will fade out early? Read on to see my predictions for the first round of the 13th WCHL playoffs.

Western Conference

(1) San Jose Sharks vs. (8) Dallas Stars

The Sharks have long been the class of the WCHL, and their four cup rings shows that. They look to be back there again, as the club topped the WCHL standings again this year with a 132 point season. The Sharks have been streaky. however, twice posting winning streaks of 15 games or more. Take away those winning streaks and the clubs record is 33-14-2; still impressive but not unbeatable. The Sharks just ended a 17 game winning streak, so it's possible they are on the downswing now, perfect timing for the Stars.

The Stars will be motivated to go out in style as well. Entering their first playoff in a while without Roberto Luongo between the pipes, the Stars will also be witnessing the swan song of long-time Star Mike Modano, who announced he will be retiring after the season is over. Alexander Ovechkin meanwhile will also be out to prove something after a regular season that saw him post just 69 points.

It will be a much closer series than the Sharks want, but they will be hard to stop right now. The Stars won't fade out into the night, but midnight will strike pretty quickly for this cinderella candidate.

Regular season: Series tied 1-1, San Jose outscored Dallas 7-3.

Prediction: San Jose in six games

(2) Calgary Flames vs. (7) Anaheim Ducks

If there is an upset potential in the West Conference, this series is it. The Ducks this season what they did last year; struggle for the first 50-plus games of the regular season, only to turn it on down the stretch and enter the playoffs hot. The Ducks were 15-6-1 down the stretch and have far to much talent to be a run of the mill depth playoff squad. Like last season, when the Ducks came into the playoffs hot and bestest the Sharks in the first round, the Ducks will be looking to do the same to a Flames squad which has been very solid all year long.

In Calgary though, expectations are much higher. After winning it all in Season 11, the Flames bottomed out in Season 12, coming in as the fifth seed and being bounced far to easily by the Detroit Red Wings in five games in the first round. This team, loaded with arguably the most depth of any team in the league and 101 point scorer Steven Stamkos, is looking for a much better post-season than last year.

Despite the Flames depth, the Ducks have the defense and goaltending to get it done this year. If Broduer can steal a game, the Ducks likely will have enough to push the Flames over the brink.

Regular season: Series Calgary won both games, outscoring Anaheim 12-6.

Prediction: Anaheim in seven games.

(3) Colorado Avalanche vs. (6) Chicago Blackhawks

If the Colorado Avalanche players enjoy playing together, they want to win a cup this year.

The Avalanche are likely the hardest-luck team in the Western Conference, having not made the finals in WCHL history despite having some of the best teams in the regular season most years. This season is no different, as the club posted a 54 win season and 116 points, but all of that matters little as the playoffs are now here.

The Chicago Blackhawks meanwhile have always been the team that hangs around; sometims getting into the playoffs and other years missing out. In or out, the Hawks have rarely made much noise in the post-season, but they have the ability to do so this year. Star netminder tim Thomas is looking to guide the team to a cup, just like he did with th Flames two years earlier.

It will be a good effort from Thomas, who always brings his A-game, but the Avalanche just have to much for one player to manage.

Regular season: 1-1-1 with the Avanlanche winning one game in a shootout. Colorado outscored Chicago 10-9.

Prediction: Colorado in five games.

(4) Edmonton Oilers vs. (5) Detroit Red Wings

The Oilers were one of the biggest surprises of Season 13, rocketing back from a dismal season last year to post 106 points this year and earn home ice in the opening round. Rookie GM Keith Foster and netminder Tomas Vokoun have led the Oilers rebirth, and will be seeking to advance the oilers to the second round of the playoffs for the first time in WCHL history.

The Red Wings though know all about surprises, having rocked the WCHL world last year. After knocking off the defending cup champions in the first round last season, the Red Wings went on to beat the Avalanche and Stars before finally losing in seven games in the WCHL finals to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Having come one win away from WCHl glory last year should serve as motivation for the Wings this year.

Two GM's who obviously know how to get the most out of a line up which features more grit than talent should be an entertaining series. The Wings experience could be the winning factor, however.

Regular season: Detroit won the series 3-1, outscoring the Oilers 18-10.

Prediction: Detroit Red Wings in seven games.

Eastern Conference

(1) New York Rangers vs. (8) New Jersey Devils

After a so-so first half by their standards, the Rangers absolutely destroyed the opposition in the second half of the season, going 32-5-3 in the final 40 games. After a second round defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Flyers last year, the Rangers are ready to step up and prove they are the force of the Eastern Conference.

The Devils on the other hand are just glad to be in the playoffs, having secured their berth on their final game of the season. They are hardly entering on a hot strecth though, having gone 6-6-1 in 13 games after a six game winning streak. Now the club has to work on beating the Rangers who only lost 21 games all year. Hardly an easy task.

This series will likely be the closest to a sweep that will happen in the playoffs this year, unless the Devils have some of their old playoff magic stuck away someplace.

Regular season: New York rangers won both games, outscoring the Devils 9-5.

Prediction: New York Rangers in five games.

(2) Atlanta Thrashers vs. (7) Philadelphia Flyers

The Thrashers, with rumours of their departure swirling around they, may be the second seed in the eastern conference, but only due to winning a very week conference. Their 97 points would have placed them sixth otherwise, just five points ahead of the Flyers, making this series much closer then the seeding would appear.

If there is a motivated team for playoff success, it should be the Flyers. After missing out on a cup finals berth by one win last year, the Flyers looked lost at times this year, and had to get a bit hot down the strecth to even make the playoffs. Clinching their playoff berth on the final game of the season, the Flyers lucked out potentially in lining up with the Thrashers and still have the horses to pull their team that led them to the third round last year.

Both teams have looked unmotivate this year, so whichever one finally shows they have a pulse is likely to be the winner of this matchup.

Regular season: Atlanta won all three games, winning two in a shootout. Atlanta outscored Philadelphia 14-10

Prediction: Philadelphia in six games.

(3) Pittsburgh penguins vs. (6) Montreal Canadians

After years of playoff disappointments, the Penguins finally came into their own last year, winning their first WCHL Cup. Now tasked with repeating the feat, the odds are stacked against them and they will try to do better than last years defending champions, Calgary Flames. The Flames won just one game in the series, losing in five games.

The Habs have to best the best in this series, and the Penguins are the best. After a great start, the Canadians have really settled down and will need to ramp up their efforts in a hurry or this series will be a blow out quickly. Montreal will have the benefit of the playoff hangover from Pittsburgh, but it will take more than that to beat the Penguins.

This series will be closer than it should be on paper, but it will be hard for Montreal to keep Pittsburgh from advancing to the second round.

Regular season: 1-1, with Pittsburgh outscoring Montreal 10-8.

Prediction: Pittsburgh in six games.

(4) New York Islanders vs. (5) Boston Bruins

There is little to seperate the Islanders and Bruins, who each posted 107 points and 40 regular season wins. The islanders though did it after a season last year that ranks as one of the most disappointing in league history. Despite having nearly the exact same team, the Islanders finished as one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference, so they have a lot of motivation this year.

In Boston, they have nearly no identity, having gone through three General Managers this year. After long-time GM Cole Wilkinson stepped down, Pat Blais was around long enough to have a cup of coffee before also stepping down. Now Roman Chrencik is in place, and is still introducing himself to his players. Talk about having to hit the ground running.

How fast Chrencik and his players can get on the same page will likely determine who will take this series.

Regular season: 1-1 with the Bruins outscoring the Islanders 4-3.

Prediction: Boston in seven games.

Three's company

2011-11-25T11:46:00.001-05:00

Who stays and who goes?

With one game left on each of their schedule's, the Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils and Philadelphia Flyers are engaging in a winner takes all of epic proportions.

"We can't fail; we mustn't fail," said Sabres General Manager Jordan Snyder, hammering his fist down on his desk after suffering a 6-4 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks Thursday night.

All three teams were in the post-season dance last year, with Buffalo and Philadelphia actually playing each other in the first round. While Buffalo succumbed to the Flyers and the Devils were also ousted in the first round, the Flyers actually made their deepest playoff push to date, advancing to the third round before finally bowing out to the eventual cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins in seven hard-fought games.

Expectations were as high as Cheech and Chong in Philadelphia as a result. But one year later, the club may need help just getting into the playoffs.

"This is a big, stinky pile of fermented hog $h!t," Flyer GM Doug VanStrepen sounded off when questioned Friday morning. "But we still control our own destiny and if we get in, anything can happen."

Indeed, the Flyers are in the driver's seat between the three clubs. Sitting with 90 points, if the Flyers win, they are in; it's that simple for them. They can also suffer a loss and get in, as long as that loss is in overtime or the shootout. The Devils, who are one point back, will also be in if they win their final game. Buffalo, who has 88 points, will make the playoffs if they win and New Jersey loses or if Philadelphia loses in regulation.

Philadelphia also gets in if New Jersey loses in regulation or if Buffalo loses in any manner. If Buffalo wins, New Jersey gets a point and Philadelphia fails to get a point, the Flyers will miss the post-season.

Confused yet? The GM's are.

"So we get in how?" questioned Devils GM Trevor O'Neill. "I really wish we hadn't lost to Tampa Bay three times this year, I'm not good at math and this is starting to give me a headache."

New Jersey started out hot, going 8-2 to start the season, but losses in six of their next seven brought them back to earth. Since then, their season has been filled with more streaks than a mid-70's prom night.

"If consistency was the key, we'd be locked out of our home by now," said centre Vincent Lecavalier, who is pointless in 15 straight games.

The playoff chase caused at least one major deal, as the Flyers sent long-time Flyer Henrik Zetterberg packing to conference rival Montreal Canadians in a deal which netted the Flyers Clarke MacArthur and Matt Bradley. The deal hasn't boosted the Flyers much, if any.

New Jersey wraps up their season tonight against the Columbus Blue Jackets in Columbus. While Columbus isn't a playoff team, don't expect this to be an easy one for the Devils. New Jersey is 1-1 against Columbus this year, and is a paltry 17-21-2 on the road this year.

Tomorrow night is the final game of the season, and nothing officially will be decided for the Flyers and Sabres until then. While a Devils win over Columbus assures them of a playoff berth, a Flyers regulation loss tomorrow coupled with a Sabres win puts the Sabres in the playoffs. Anything other scenario puts the Flyers in the post-season.

Philadelphia is taking on the New York Islanders, who have rebounded after a brutal season last year. The Flyers, who are 14-5-1 in their last 20 games, are at home where they have gone 24-15-1 this season. The Flyers are just 1-3 against the Islanders this season, but their lone win came at home. The Sabres meanwhile are in Anaheim to take on the Ducks, who have had another last season resurgence. Buffalo is 17-18-5 on the road, but they won their only other encounter with the Ducks at the mid-way point of the season, besting Anaheim 7-5 in a shootout in Anaheim. Anaheim is 24-14-5 since that defeat, however, including 20-9-4 in their last 33 games.

How will all play out though is anyone's guess, as this game isn't played on paper. By tomorrow night, everyone will finally know who is in and who is out in the Eastern Conference.

Relocation looming? Jets soar once more?

2011-11-09T16:01:00.001-05:00

Could the Atlanta Thrashers be moving to Winnipeg?

While league sources have been tight-lipped, there are rumours the WCHL has come to terms with a group of investors to help salvage the struggling Atlanta Thrashers franchise.

Citing a source close to the negotiations, the league is expected to announce the Thrashers will be moving from their southern home to another city. While several options were being considered, such as Las Vegas, Quebec, Kansas City and the Portland, Oregon area, as well as possibly even adding another team in New York or Chicago, it appears the WCHL is returning to Winnipeg.

The source declined to be identified as the deal has not been finalized and as such has not been confirmed.

Trent Allen, WCHL Commissioner, declined to speculate on the rumour, but did confirm Atlanta has proven to be a hard sell.

"I mean come on. This is the second time around in Atlanta. you guys f*%&ed it up the first time, b!*$%ed and moaned until the lague came back, and still don't show up? We have about 14,000 towns across Canada that could draw more fans than Atlanta, so for a rumour like this to come out is not surprising," Allen ranted.

While Atlanta team officials originally were claiming incredible numbers through the gates -estimating 20,405 fans per game this season, or nearly 95 per cent capacity- that estimate was shot down last week by a member of the Thrashers front office.

"We made that up," said Phil McGroin, Director of Marketing for the Atlanta Thrashers. "A lot of those were give away nights. We even dropped tickets from a Good Year blimp once, and another game was attended by inmates from Folsom Prison on a sort of day parole thing. Even then, we had to tell them Johnny Cash was coming or they would have rather stayed in their cells. They've been in Folsom so long, they didn't know he had died."

Tits McGee, the WCHL Ice Girls Management Team Co-ordinator, said it's likely a good thing the team is slated to move.

Did you know this is a man?

"You ever see women from Atlanta? It's hard enough to get three girls that aren't so badly inbred they can't skate. I think from this years girls team of 14 skaters, we have eight that can't even spell hockey. Five girls' had such bad gingivitis we had to pay them in teeth," said McGee, who later refused to confirm or deny that three members of the Thrashers Ice Girls team were in fact really skinny men who liked to wear their mom's make up.

It'll be a big deal if the Jets return to Winnipeg

Allen said a further update would be made on the Thrashers franchise at a better time, so as not to take away from the appeal of the playoff push and the WCHL trade deadline.

"It's an exciting time of year, lets keep it that way," Allen said.

Allen didn't shy away from labelling Winnipeg as a viable market for the WCHL to return.

"I wasn't the A-hole who helped move the Jets to a f^&*ing desert, so you won't catch me saying some bull$h!t about how the league was different back then like that Bettman guy," sad Allen. "The WCHL should never have left here. Winnipeg is awesome. they love hockey, and more importantly they get hockey. They know when to cheer and when not to cheer. They started the whiteout which has since gone around the world as a hockey symbol. This place went ape$h!t for hockey once before, it will again," attested Allen.

According to the inside source, the league won't simply move Atlanta to Winnipeg, but rather a third team could be involved. The source was unclear on how that other team would be implicated in the transition if one does happen, however.

"Us leave? That's unpossible," said Thrashers diet guru Dustin Byfuglien.

Caps hire new GM; Thrashers post now open

2011-11-07T11:07:00.001-05:00

The GM carousel continues to spin in the WCHL. Just days after filling the Washington Capitals front desk, the WCHL once again finds itself with five teams open as Braydn Ericckson stepped down from his position with the Atlanta Thrashers.

"It was disappointing to see Braydn go, especially after a great regular season last year, but he choose to move on," stated WCHL Commissioner Trent Allen. "It's a sad day."

But the positive was the fact the Capitals have a new front man, as Steven Bruce was introduced as the newest GM for Washington.

"We're excited to have Bruce here," said Allen, noting Bruce prefers to be referred to by his last name. "We look forward to seeing him work with a team that has a lot of intriguing parts which could be a good team if molded properly."

The Capitals are 5-4-1 in their last 10 games, but still sit with a record of just 29-37-6, leaving them 14 points out of a playoff position. As such, there are plenty of names on the trade block.

While the club is expected to try and shed some veteran players like Todd Bertuzzi, rumours persist that younger forwards such as Brandon Dubinsky and Pierre-Marc Bouchard are also available to be had for the right price.

Bruce would neither confirm nor deny the reports.

"We are looking to make moves that nenefit our hockey team first and foremost," said Bruce. "If we can do that, we'll look at making the move, regardless of who it involves."

Could Brandon Dubinsky be New York bound? Rumours have it the Capitals would like to move the young power forward, who has long cited a love for the New York Rangers.

Want a team? Apply within

2011-10-19T10:27:00.000-04:00

In a quest to see activity in the WCHL increase, the league has released General Managers from the Florida Panthers and the Vancouver Canucks Tuesday evening, bring the total number of teams vacant to five.

“We want to see the league be as vibrant as possible,” said WCHL Commissioner Trent Allen. “It’s no fun for anyone if GM’s don’t participate and contribute to the league.”

Wanting what he called a “family atmosphere,” Allen stated he hopes to see positive thinking and enthusiastic GM’s manning the phone lines for these teams in the near future.

“We want people in place who aren’t just hockey fans, but fans of making the league better as well,” stated Allen. “We want GM’s who are ready to bring positive ideas and a positive attitude to the league. We will leave these teams open until that happens, and I don’t care how long that takes.”

Currently, the Canucks and Panthers are joined by the Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals and Columbus Blue Jackets as open teams, awaiting a new GM. Allen stated he has one GM lined up who would like to join in the off-season, and has said he will also take over a team at some point. That still leaves three teams which will need to be filled.

If anyone interested in applying to be a GM in the WCHL, or if anyone has someone to recommend as a possible GM candidate, they are asked to contact Commissioner Trent Allen at trentallen1@hotmail.com

Western Conference risers

2011-10-11T10:21:00.003-04:00

While in the Eastern Conference little looks like it will change on the playoff lanscape this season -albeit the Philadelphia Flyers are sitting outside the post-season at the moment- all is not quiet on the Western front.

The battle lines were drawn long ago and with just one-third of the regular season to go, four of the eight teams in the West currently in the playoff picture weren't there last year.

The Edmonton Oilers, St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks and Phoenix Coyotes all find themselves ready for the playoff berth one year after hitting the golf courses earlier than most teams.

"We've just kicked @$$ this season," said Oilers General Manager Keith Foster. The Oilers not only are in the playoff picture, but sit seemingly locked into home ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs with a record of 35-17-4. "I expected big things, but not this big I'll admit."

While offense has been largely scoring by committee, and only forward jason Pominville seems likely to reach the 30 goal plateau, the Oilers have been stingy on defense, backed by MVP candidate Tomas Vokoun. In 53 games this season, Vokoun has been 34-14-2 with a .903 save percentage and a 2.42 goals againast average.

"Vokoun rocks," said Pominville. "I'm going to rename my first born after him in the off-season."

Maybe not as secure as the Oilers, the Blues also find themselves ready to post-season action for the first time in a while. A recent 1-7-2 skid has put a damper on those ambitions, but the Blues are still well in control of their own destiny.

"We need to be better no question," said Blues GM Jesse Funkster. "But we're excited with where we are at too."

If you thought the Oilers offense was a scoring by committee function, the Blues take it one step further. Sporting a line up with several former Oilers no less, only one player, Ales Hemsky, figures to reach 20 goals this season and no one looks likely to break the 60 point barrier. Netminder Niklas Backstrom, the long-time Philly Flyer, has been red-lights out this season, posting a .909 save percentage and a 2.43 goals against average. Backstrom is tied for the league lead for best save percentage with Colorado Avalanche's Ilya Bryzgalov.

"We need to score some goals here and help out Backy," said forward Ryan Smyth. "If we could score like Ron Jeremy, we'd be 82-0 this year."

For the Blackhawks, they are currently in the most enviable situation of the Blues, Blackhawks and Coyotes. Chicago has only played 50 games this year, well below some other teams and seven fewer than St. Louis, giving them plenty of room for error. Chicago's winning percentage of .590 is actually sixth best in the conference and if they get hot, could reach as high as fifth in the West.

"Honestly, I thought we'd suck like a Hoover vaccuum, or worse, like Jenna Jamieson," said Blackhawks GM Will Englesby. "Apparently one hooker per goal is a great motivational technique."

Comparing himself to the great Sam Pollack, Englesby stated he expects the tgeam to grow further as the season progresses.

"Hey, if I can squeeze 18 goals so far out of that plug Evgeni Artyukin, I can do anything," proclaimed Englesby.

While these three teams are a bit of a shock to be in the playoffs, the biggest shock of all has to be the Phoenix Coyotes. Fresh off the heels of drafting first overall in the 2009 WCHL Entry Draft, the Coyotes have used a mixture of muscle, mojo and magic to get themselves into a playoff berth at the moment.

"I don't know what happened actually," admitted GM Phin Liew. "I kind of went to bathroom before game one and got locked in there. I only got out three days ago, so obviously this is a great surprise to me."

Holding a used toliet paper roll which he had nicknamed 'Wilson,' Liew proclaimed his Coyotes would not fade down the stretch.

"Never," cried Liew, wrapping himself toga-style in a Coyotes flag. "If Alexander Frolov and Marc Savard ever extract their heads from their collective @$$e$, we'd be great."

These four teams are in at the expense of the Anaheim Ducks, Dallas Stars and Vancouver Cancuks, teams which have been contenders for years. Dallas managed to get within one game of another WCHL Cup finals appearance last year, but currently sits six points back of Phoenix for eighth. Anaheim, just like last year, is bouncing between eighth and ninth in the standings. The team hoping to repeat last years finish as well, when they were one of the hottest teams down the stretch before finally getting knocked out in the second round of the playoffs by Dallas.

The real shocker is Vancouver, who have been brutal this season after years in the playoff picture. Saddled with an 11-41-2 record, the Canucks have had almost everything possible go wrong for them this year, and sit 13 points behind the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Minnesota Wild for worst record in the league.

Same faces atop the WCHL

2011-09-06T11:33:00.009-04:00

Sharks GM Kurt Flumore puts on his game face to cheer his team on during their 16-game winning streak earlier this season.

While there has been significant overhaul in the ranks of the WCHL, bringing with it some increased activity in a number of cities, change takes time. At least change that will result in seeing a few of the lower ranked teams move up the conference ladders.

As we are nearly 40 per cent of the way through the season, the elite are once again separating themselves from the pack, and it's some familiar faces near the top of the leader board.

In the Western Conference, the San Jose Sharks, fueled by a 16-game winning streak, reside as the top team in the league. Not a big shock considering the Sharks illustrious history.

"We are just (expletive deleted) awesome," said GM Kurt Fulmore, lying on a massage table getting worked over by a male Swedish masseuse named Thor.

Fulmore went on to explain that that 16-game run was no fluke, and he expects his team to do that again in the future.

"We will (expletive deleted) kick all those (expletive deleted) back to their holes," said Fulmore, seemingly oblivious to the 6'6 male masseuse who was struggling to keep his mini-skirt from riding up and revealing his Swedish meatballs to everyone in the room. "All you (expletive deleted) are gonna pay. You are the ones who are the (expletive deleted)-lickers. We're gonna (expletive deleted) your mothers while you watch and cry like little (expletive deleted). Once we get to your arena and find those (expletive deleted) who are playing on that team, we're gonna make 'em eat our (expletive deleted), then (expletive deleted) out our (expletive deleted), then eat their (expletive deleted) which is made up of our (expletive deleted) that we made 'em eat. Then you're all you (expletive deleted) are next. Love, Kurt and the Sharks."

The Sharks are followed closely by the Colorado Avalanche once again, and GM Ryan McClanahan isn't quite as bold as the Sharks.

"Who gives a flying squirrel's right testicle where we are in the standings at this moment," said McClanahan when asked if he was happy with his teams 23-5-4 record thus far. "We haven't won (expletive deleted) yet. Every year, we win in the regular season and then (expletive deleted) the bed in the playoffs. I want to win in the playoffs, cal me when we are winning in the playoffs mother (expletive deleted).

In the Eastern Conference, the scene is also familiar, as the defending WCHL Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins are riding on top with a 25-8 record, including a league high 24 wins in regulation.

"This is better than sex," said GM Patrick Matthews. "Well, not really, but it's up there, so you get my drift."

Matthews' club is lead by the ageless wonder Teemu Selanne, who has 37 points in 33 games, despite being old enough to be teammate Patrick Kane's dad.

"The dude is a freak," said Matthews, referring to Selanne. "Not just in the sack either."

Matthews later retracted the statement, complaining of the effects of "heat stroke." When Matthews was told heat stroke is not a sexual term, Matthews declined further comment and abruptly ended the interview.

One change from past years sees the Montreal Canadians as having the second best winning percentage in the Eastern Conference, thanks largely to the current eight game winning streak the club is on. The club also has a point in 10 straight games and overall is 12-1-1 in their last 14 games.

"Vive le Habitants," proclaimed GM Marco Castillo.

"We are ready to be the most dominate force in the league once more," added Castillo, speaking in a fake French accent that sounded almost strangely Chinese. "We will be more addictive than poutine, more aggressive than a French man after a hot tourist and more annoying than a referendum."

How the rest of the season plays out will be interesting, but all four of the top teams in the WCHL as of this point certainly have their swagger on. Who will be able to back it up come the post-season will be the true test, however.

New faces, a draft and some long overdue congratulations

2011-08-23T23:31:00.004-04:00

Well, it's been a while since I've written about the league, and plenty has happened.

First and foremost, the Pittsburgh Penguins finally shock off that obese gorilla that was on their back and captured their first ever WCHL title, edging the shocking Detroit Red Wings in seven games.

"I feel more excited than when i lost my virginity," said Penguins General Manager Patrick Matthews, recalling back to when he was 11-years-old. "And that was hard to top. It involved a nun, a trapeze bar, several gallons of olive oil and a dirty barbecue. Yep, that was a good weekend."

Without prompting, Matthews went on to explain that the lone connection between that night and Pittsburgh's cup title was that "they both involved multiple penguins."

The club celebrated the event in style, riding through downtown Pittsburgh on the back of an elephant after arriving for game seven in Pittsburgh riding a modern day Hindenburg.

"We knew we were a great team, but this guarantees it," said centre Patrick Marleau, one of many Penguins who have been around for multiple playoff disappointments. "Now it's time to get hammered."

For the Penguins brass, and the rest of the WCHL, there wasn't much time to celebrate, as the league almost immediately jumped into the 2009 WCHL Entry Draft. Shocking few, John Tavares was claimed with the top pick by the Phoenix Coyotes.

"I couldn't believe he was still available," proclaimed an intoxicated Phin Liew, Phoenix GM. "I thought he'd have been snapped up for sure by now."

Few surprises took place at the draft, and even fewer trades. While the draft is the key to the future, most GM's were already looking to the present, as free agency opened right after the draft concluded.

A few elite players were available, including blueliner Dan Boyle, who spurred offers from the Penguins to go to the open market. Boyle cashed in with a five-year; $40-million dollar deal with the Dallas Stars.

"It's hard to leave the cup champions, but Dallas is constantly in it year after year and it's hard to not imagine they can't reach the finals again with Ovechkin and Luongo," said Boyle.

Perhaps the biggest shocker in free agency was the Ryan Miller, and the elite netminder captured a five-year; $55-million dollar deal with the Boston Bruins.

"We may have overpaid, but whatever, it's not my money," said Bruins GM Cole Wilkinson, tossing $100-dollar bills into the air. "Now I'm off to buy shares in Enron and the Edmonton Oilers."

As the season approached, the waiver draft came and went, and a few players were selected, including Chris Drury and Corey Crawford, who found new homes in Toronto and Carolina respectively.

"Didn't see that coming," said Drury. "But this should be interesting to play in the maddest hockey town in the world."

"Well ****," said Crawford, clearly not a fan of the move. "This sucks donkey ****. Who would want to go to that backward, redneck, cousin-humping, backwater hole? Not me. They can all suck my hairy *** and go **** themselves with a pitchfork in the *****."

"We respect his opinions. It's not the first time we've heard opinions like that either," said Carolina GM Mike "fire sale" McFarland. "I actually liked what he had to say, it gives me some ideas for later tonight when I'm alone."

The regular is currently underway, and with several new faces as the league continues to push out any dead weight. New faces appeared in managers seats in Toronto, Minnesota, Nashville, Ottawa, Los Angeles, Washington and several other locals, including Calgary, where long-time GM Trent Allen stepped down, only to be replaced by fellow long-time WCHLer Lawson Cham.

"I don't have to do jack," said Cham. "I can kick back, suck down a margarita and watch the wins roll in."

And so far, Calgary is one of a few teams piling up the wins, going 15-9 to start the season. San Jose looks to be back to their tradition self, winning 12 straight games and counting to rest atop the entire WCHL.

Close behind? Well that'd be those Penguins, aiming to repeat.

"Only one team has ever repeated," said Matthews, referring to the Sharks. "I aim to make it two."

Just like the NHL after all

2011-06-09T00:35:00.003-04:00

It's the WCHL's goal to mirror the NHL in many ways, so it seems only fitting that the to teams in the finals are the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins, a duo which met in back to back years in the Stanley Cup finals.
Anyone looking to those series' to gain some insight into who will win the WCHL Cup this year might want to look somewhere else; both teams each won one cup.
In this match up, it features a Red Wings squad with a little less swagger than the NHL version. One year after finishing dead last in the Western Conference, the Wings have won the conference title are are poised to pull off one more upset in their quest to gain the clubs first WCHL crown.
Facing them is the Pittsburgh Penguins, perhaps the most unlucky playoff team in the WCHL. One year after winning the league's regular season point title, only to be defeated in the first round by the eighth seeded New Jersey Devils, the Penguins have roared back these playoffs, bouncing the Bruins and Thrashers with conviction before bouncing back from a 20 series deficit against the Philadelphia Flyers to earn the club's first WCHL cup finals berth.

Who will prevail? Read on to find out:

(4) Detroit Red Wings vs. (4) Pittsburgh Penguins

In a match up of fourth seeds, the Wings and Penguins have had to prove a lot along the way. Of note, both teams have started the last two series without home ice advantage and yet still came out on top, with the Wings doing so on the backs of two straight game seven road wins over the Colorado Avalanche and the Dallas Stars.
In this series it will be the Penguins who hold home ice advantage, and given the steely nerves of the Wings, the boys from the Steel city better thing long and hard about getting this series over early. A game seven on the road is right up the Wings alley.
As for Detroit, they busted out of a cold funk at the right time. After roaring to a 3-1 lead over the Avalanche in round two, the Wings would lose five of their next seven, narrowly getting past Colorado in seven games, in overtime no less, before falling behind 3-1 to Dallas. What a difference a few days can make and now the Wings enter the finals as what has to be the favored team mentally. Unlike Pittsburgh, who have the weight of past post-season failure hanging over them, Detroit has already far eclipsed what was expected of them. They are in a win-win situation.
One trend could hold true these playoffs, however. Despite some incredible series in the early rounds, most WCHL Cup finals have become blow outs, with a number of sweeps having been registered over the years. Even last year, when elite teams in the Calgary Flames and New York Rangers matched up, the Flames still blew past the Rangers in four straight.

Prediction: It won't be a sweep but the Penguins have been nearly unstoppable, minus a minor bump against the Flyers. This should finally be the Penguins year. Pittsburgh in five.

Half way home

2011-06-02T23:56:00.005-04:00

Early on, round two appeared to be full of potential blow outs, as several teams sprang ahead in their respective series. Impressive comebacks by both the New York Rangers and Colorado Avalanche provided a lot of entertainment however, despite falling short in the end.

The question that could linger though is, will those failed comebacks have any impact on the victors? Both the Philadelphia Flyers and Detroit Red Wings may have gotten through, but they will be facing well rested and extremely talented teams in the third round.

The following is a look and predictions for the third round:

Western Conference

(1) Dallas Stars vs. (4) Detroit Red Wings

The Stars finished tops in the Western Conference and have rolled through the post-season, having little trouble with either the Columbus Blue Jackets or the Anaheim Ducks. The dispatching of the Ducks was particularly impressive, as the Ducks appeared to be legitimate contenders to regain their cup status.

So do the Stars however, and they will have to get through the Red Wings to do so. The Wings have been the darling of the playoffs, first bouncing the defending champion Calgary Flames then extending the Colorado Avalanche's run of playoff futility in seven games in round two. Netminder Evgeni Nabokov has been particularly impressive, posting a .903 save percentage throughout the playoffs.

If the game is decided based on goaltending alone, the Wings should take the series, given that Stars' netminder Roberto Luongo has been decided pedestrian thus far. But with the dynamic duo of Brian Gionta and Alexandre Ovechkin pushing the Stars, that seems unlikely.

Prediction: Stars in six.

Eastern Conference

(3) Philadelphia Flyers vs. (4) Pittsburgh Penguins

The Eastern final comes down to two teams which have been long overdue for playoff success. Despite some great teams, both the Flyers and Penguins have struggled to find playoff glory. Now, in the first ever battle of Pennsylvania, one team will achieve that success at the expense of the other.

For the Flyers, they boast a strong offensive core and a defense which can both score and play gritty. Netminding has been the question in the past but, with his team backed into a corner in game seven against the Rangers, Chris Mason pulled out a huge win, allowing just one goal and pushing his team into the third round.

Pittsburgh though is full of potential, blessed with arguably the most talent on one team in the entire league. Lead by Norris Trophy candidate Dan Boyle, who nearly became the first WCHL defender to ever score 100 points in a season, Pittsburgh claims three scoring lines and a defense which is very mobile. If Marc-Andre Fluery can continue a strong playoff, Pittsburgh could be hard to stop.

Prediction: Pittsburgh in six.

Next: Finals prediction!

Not many surprises from round one

2011-05-26T21:50:00.006-04:00

After round one, there were a few surprises but by and large the teams that were supposed to get through to the second round did so.

The defending cup champions, the Calgary Flames, were knocked off by the Deroit Red Wings while the Anaheim Ducks bested the third seed San Jose Sharks in six games. Neither can be described as a major upset however, and the Wings actually held home ice advantage in their series with Calgary.

As such, it's doubtful there will be anything considered as an upset this round either, but a few teams with longstanding cup droughts are certainly hoping so.

The following is predictions for round two of the WCHL playoffs:

Western Conference

(1) Dallas Stars vs (6) Anaheim Ducks

The Stars and Ducks series features a match up of two teams with recent WCHL Cup titles to their credit, and the core of both teams is based on veterans from those seasons.

Dallas has built their team around two scoring threats in Alexandre Ovechkin and Brian Gionta, and arguably the best goaltender in the game today in Roberto Luongo. After that it's a ragtag collection of supporting players who do enough to not mess things up for what might be best trio of players in the WCHL this past season.

Anaheim meanwhile is a dynasty in the making and are eager to reestablish that after a shocking upset in the playoffs last year by the Vancouver Canucks. Anaheim struggled for much of the season, explaining the sixth place seeding, but were one of the hottest teams down the stretch and pushed the Sharks aside in six games in round one.

This series will be a high tempo and likely high scoring one, but with the Ducks struggling in net, it could be a bit much to overcome Luongo's ability. On the flip side, if the Ducks can shutdown Ovechkin and Gionta, they might not need to.

Prediction: A close series, but Luongo should be able to steal a game, and that will be enough. Stars in seven.

(2) Colorado Avalanche vs (4) Detroit Red Wings

The Wings are about as close to a cinderella team as there is in the WCHL playoffs still playing. The Wings one season ago were a mess, finishing dead last in the Western Conference with 55 points and looking for direction. ne year later and the Wings doubled their point total and bested the defending champions in just five games in round one. Detroit can already label their season a success and have no pressure on them. Anything from this point on is pure gravy for a frnachise long suffering from failure.

Colorado meanwhile has failed to make much noise at all in the playoffs despite several strong regular seasons and the pressure is on them to not have the same fate face them yet again. Colorado is looking to reach at least the third round, a land which has alluded them almost every year in the WCHL despite some impressive line ups over the years.

If Colorado can get some offensive support from a deep line up and get to Evgeni Nabokov, they should be able to topple the upstart Red Wings, but it won't be an easy task.

Prediction: Nabokov will get some saves, but it will be hard to shutdown a very determined Avalanche line up. Colorado in six.

Eastern Conference

(1) Atlanta Thrashers vs (4) Pittsburgh Penguins

There just isn't a team hotter than the Thrashers. The New Jersey Devils did win game four of their first round series, but that was the first loss for Atlanta in 20 games. How did they respond? By winning game five, eliminating the Devils and moving on to round two.

It's not likely the Thrashers will be running up another 19 game winning streak any time soon, as the Pittsburgh Penguins stand in their way. The Penguins are a team which, much like Colorado, has been a long time WCHL playoff disappointment and just last year were ousted in the first round after finishing with the best record in all of the WCHL. Needless to say, motivation is not a factor.

Plenty of firepower can be found in this series and it will be interesting to see who outscores who; the Sedin brothers or the veteran duo of Teemu Selanne and Patrick Marleau.

Prediction: Pittsburgh's going to make it tough but the Trashers are just to hot right now. Atlanta in six.

(2) New York Rangers vs (3) Philadelphia Flyers

One year after making it to the WCHL finals the Rangers are trying to earn their third straight trip to the third round, a task never acheived before in the Eastern Conference. To do so they'll need to get past the Flyers, whose line up boasts the regular season scoring leader Jeff Carter.

Much like Pittsburgh and Colorado, the Flyers are trying to push past some playoff demons, and looking for a rare appearance in the third round. A change in net from past seasons see Chris Mason between the pipes for Philadelphia, who are hoping that change will lift them to the promised land for the first time in franchise history.

Prediction: Staying motivated this playoffs seems to be a difficult thing for last eyars top clubs and it will likely be the same this time around for the Rangers. Philadelphia in seven.

Next: Round three predictions

Round one is here!

2011-05-19T00:36:00.013-04:00

It's time for the WCHL Playoffs to begin, and for a few teams it's more than just a long time coming.

The Columbus Blue Jackets and Tampa Bay Lightning are in the post-season after several years looking in from the outside. While they are facing an uphill climb to make much of an impact this year, upsets are a near guarantee for the WCHL playoffs, especially in the Eastern Conference.

That was the case last year, as the top seeded Pittsburgh Penguins were knocked off by eighth seeded New Jersey in the first round, while another perennial powerhouse, the Philadelphia Flyers, stumbled in round two.

Will that be the case this year, or will the top seeds take advantage of what should be weaker opposition and roll into the second round?

Below is a first round prediction for both the Western and Eastern Conferences:

Western Conference

(1) Dallas Stars vs. (8) Columbus Blue Jackets

The Stars are a past winner of the WCHL Championship and finished the regular season second overall in the WCHL. Columbus meanwhile may just be happy to get to the playoffs.

Whatever the case, the Stars will be eager to not overlook the Blue Jackets, who have some potent offense coming from centre Jason Spezza and blueliner Brent Seabrook. With the Stars though, they rely on three things; Alexandre Ovechkin's scoring, Roberto Luongo's goaltending and their collective experience, and all three top the Blue Jackets in those areas.

Prediction: Dallas in four.

(2) Colorado Avalanche vs. (7) Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver began a rebuild midway through the season and it's likely this will be the last playoff action the Canucks see for a few seasons. With that in mind, it's likely the Canucks will be an inspired group, eager to win in their last hurrah.

And who better to do it against than the Avalanche, who are as hard luck of a playoff team as there is in the Western Conference. The Avalanche, despite some great teams, have had little luck in the playoffs, and were once again sent home in the second round last season.

That said, expect the Avalanche to get back to at least round two before they face a serious threat to their playoff lives, though Vancouver will make it interesting.

Prediction: Colorado in six.

(3) San Jose Sharks vs. (6) Anaheim Ducks

In an all California battle there may not be a greater expectation of an upset as to be found here.

The Ducks might have finished 16 points behind the Sharks in the standings, but no team was hotter down the stretch in the west than the Ducks. After sitting outside the playoffs well into the season, the Ducks rattled off a series of winning streaks to finish 17 points up on the ninth place St. Louis Blues.

Both the Sharks and Ducks are previous WCHL Cup winners, and both teams could go far once again this year. Anaheim may have the league's best team on paper while the Sharks are the most storied franchise in WCHL history. Recent history however dictates things won't be so good for the Sharks, and the Ducks will likely make that continue in a tough series.

Prediction: Anaheim in seven.

(4) Detroit Red Wings vs. (5) Calgary Flames

The changing of the guard may be found in this series. Last year the Red Wings finished with the worst record in the Western Conference while the Flames captured their first WCHL title.

Fast forward one year and the Red Wings finished ahead of the frustratingly inconsistent Flames and served notice they intend to stake their claim to elite status in the WCHL. Add in the constant rumours that Flames General Manager Trent Allen may be leaving his post with the Flames after the playoffs, and there truly is change blowing in the wind.

That change will come a little slower than the Red Wings would like as any team with the firepower that Calgary possesses likely can't be completely tamed for an entire post-season.

Prediction: Calgary in five.

Eastern Conference

(1) Atlanta Thrashers vs. (8) New Jersey Devils

Can the Devils do it again? That'll be the question for New Jersey who, just one year after knocking off top seeded Pittsburgh in the opening round are left trying to duplicate the feat against the Thrashers.

It won't be easy, as the Thrashers are riding a 16 game winning streak into the playoffs and finished with a whopping 129 points, good for best in the entire WCHL.

New Jersey will put up a good fight, but the Thrashers aren't WCHL pushovers and it's doubtful lightning will hit twice in the same spot.

Prediction: Atlanta in six.

(2) New York Rangers vs. (7) Tampa Bay Lightning

After making the conference finals two seasons ago and then pushing that one step further last year with their first ever WCHL finals appearance, the Rangers are seeking to take that final step and capture their first WCHL title. Opposing their run in the first round are the Lightning, who are making a somewhat surprising playoff appearance.

For Tampa Bay, it will require some top end goaltending, some unexpected playoff heroes and likely a small collapse on the part of the Rangers for the Lightning to advance, but in the wacky Eastern Conference, stranger things have happened. That said, expect the Lightning to just soak up the experience and build on it for next year.

Prediction: New York Rangers in five.

(3) Philadelphia Flyers vs. (6) Buffalo Sabres

In a rematch of the second round from last years playoffs, the Flyers will seek to best the Sabres, who won last year in a hard fought seven games.

The Flyers are long overdue for some playoff success, and looked like one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference all year long. The Sabres meanwhile couldn't decide if they were rebuilding or contending, and swung several trades along the way. Regardless of the paths to the playoffs, one things for sure; the Flyers have all the pressure on them.

It may not be enough to halt the Flyers this year however, though the Sabres will go down swinging.

Prediction: Philadelphia in seven.

(4) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (5) Boston Bruins

For teams with 112 and 111 points respectively, the Penguins and Bruins flew well under the radar all season. Funny status for two teams with a lot to prove.

If there were ever two examples of WCHL teams with a mountain of regular season success and little to show for in the playoffs, it'd be Pittsburgh and Boston. Pittsburgh is looking to avenge one of the biggest heartbreaks last year, when they were the top team in the WCHL, only to be defeated in the opening round by the New Jersey Devils.

Whichever team fails to advance far is likely to see significant changes in the off-season. This one could go either way, but Pittsburgh has a lot more to rectify after last year, and that should be the extra edge to get them to round two.

Prediction: Pittsburgh in seven.

Next: Round Two predictions

Saturday Night Updates

2011-05-16T01:21:00.001-04:00

New York Rangers (2) vs Montreal (4)..........
The Rangers looked to continue their climb up the Eastern Conference standings as they visited the Habs in Le Province. Montreal had other plans as they scored two powerplay goals in the second and led 3-2, but it was P.J. Axelsson's third period tally early on that was the insurance marker and temporarily de-railed the Rangers climb. Alex Pietrangelo scored once and had an assist to led the Canadiens. It was a selfish unsportsmanlike penalty by Rangers Fedor Tyutin that gave Montreal the led the needed and never reliquished. Jonathan Quick stopped 17 shots for his 29th win.

Buffalo (2) vs Pittsburgh (4).............
The Penguins stretched their home unbeaten streak to 9-0-0-1 in their last ten games at the Igloo as the doubled up on the Sabres. Teemu Selanne's 35th of the season (and second of the game) was the insurance marker scored on the powerplay with just 1:15 remaining in regulation. Along with Selanne's two goals, Bobby Ryan had (1-1-2) to help led the Pens. Tomas Plekanec's first period goal was his 37th of the season and his team leading 100th point for Buffalo. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 26 shots for his 45th win.

St. Louis (3) vs Nashville (4).................
Thomas Vanek's second goal of the game (his 40th) tied the game for St.louis and sent it into overtime. Nashville scored three goals in just 19 shots in regulation and OT, and Steve Downie scored the winning goal in the shoot-out to improve the Preds to 5-5 in their last ten games. St.Louis missed out on a chance to catch Columbus for the 8th seed in the West with the loss. Kevin Bieksa led the Preds with a goal and an assist in regulation.

Washington (1) vs Anaheim (4)...........
Three goals in 10 minutes of the opening frame was more than enough for the Ducks as they beat the Caps. Duncan Keith scored twice and added an assist, Sidney Crosby scored his 39th of the season and had on helper to led the offense for Anaheim. Todd Bertuzzi was the only Cap to beat Tuukka Rask who stopped 20 shots for his 46th win. The win assured the Ducks 7th place in the West as they cannot be caught by Columbus.

Edmonton (5) vs Columbus (8)........
The Blue Jackets scored four goals in the first and three in the second to cruise to a 8-5 win. Kris Versteeg scored a hat-trick and had one assist to power Columbus. While rookie Yannick Riendeau had two goals for Edmonton. Columbus is in the eigth and final playoff spot in the West but the Blues can still catch them as they have a game in hand. Edmonton lost defenseman Paul Mara in the first period with a broken finger on his left hand and will not play in the Oilers final regular season game versus the Penguins.

LA (1) vs San Jose (4)..........
Evgeni Malkin staked the Kings to a 1-0 first period lead but the Sharks scored four goals in the second on nine shots to top LA. Zach Parise scored his 44th of the season along with an assist, Eric Staal and Lee Stempniak duplicated Zach's output to power the Sharks. Cam Ward won his 54th of the season stopping 26 shots. The Sharks have one more game remaining but cannot catch Dallas for top spot in the West and will have to settle for third in the Conference. Malkin was injured off the second period face-off as he took an undetected two hander across his right arm and will most likely miss LA's final two games.

Reporting for WCHL Network......
Peter Pucker

Saturday Night Highlights

2011-04-18T21:32:00.001-04:00

Washington (2) vs New York Islanders (3) O/T............
The Islanders jumped out 2-0 by the halfway mark of the first but the Caps used two powerplay goals in two periods to draw even before the end of regulation. Patrik Hornqvist with his 20th of the season won it for Isles just 3:12 into OT as he put in his own rebound during a scramble around the Caps net. Islanders defenseman Mike Del Zotto had (1-2-3) while Hornqvist had (1-1-2), Carey Price won his 24th, stopping 22 shots. Scoring for Washington was Niklas Bergfors and Sergei Samsonov.

St. Louis (3) vs Montreal (1).......
The Blues moved one point clear of ninth in the West with their 3-1 win in Montreal. St.Louis built a 3-0 lead after two periods before J.P Dumont scored his 20th in the third period but it was a case of alittle too little too late. Steve Mason stopped 15 shots for the win while Peter Forsberg, Jason Strudwick and Alexandre Bolduc scored for the Blues.

Edmonton (1) vs Anaheim (3)..........
Anaheim won their 5th in a row and stayed three points ahead of St.Louis with a 3-1 win over the Oilers. Two third period goals by the Ducks was the difference in the win, the last by David Backes (his 16th) into an empty net. John Oduya (1-1-2) and Patrice Bergeron (0-2-2) led the Ducks. The only Oiler to score was Saku Koivu with his 12th on the powerplay just twelve seconds into the third period. Tuukka Rask wins his 36th game stopping a mere 10 shots.

Philly (1) vs Atlanta (3)..........
The Flyers couldn't solve Martin Brodeur on this night as they fired 42 shots at him and only scored once, while the Thrashers scored three times on just 19 shots. Two powerplay goals by Martin St.Louis, his 28th and 29th powered Atlanta to their second straight win and vaulting them three points clear of Philly for the lead in the East. Henrik Sedin had two assists while his brother (Daniel) was suspended two games for (unsportman-like) cross checking Ryan Getzlaf across the head, late in the second period during a goal mouth scramble. The lone Flyer goal was scored by Mike Green midway through the third period on the powerplay, his 19th of the season.

Minnesota (2) vs Dallas (3)..........
Dallas had a more difficult time than they should have with the Wild, as Alex Ovechkin (with two goals) scored the winner with just fourty-nine seconds remaining in regulation. Jakub Voracek scored the other goal for Dallas while Roberto Luongo stopped 17 shots for his 35th victory of the season. Martin Hanzel and Pavel Kubina scored for Minnesota who have lost three in a row. The win keeps Dallas four points ahead of Calgary for third in the Western Conference.

LA (2) vs Columbus (6).............
The Blue Jackets de-throned the Kings and LA looked more like jesters, losing 6-2. Columbus won their 3rd straight game as they closed within one point of eighth placed St.Louis. Los Angeles has lost nine straight games and inching ever closer to being eliminated from the playoffs. Leading the scoring for the Blue Jackets was Jamie Langenbrunner with his 36,37,38 of the season, while Ian White had a trio of helpers. Johan Hedberg continues his solid play in net as he stops 15 shots for his 30th victory of the season. For LA Evgeni Malkin potted his 22nd.

Tampa Bay (2) vs NJ (1)......
Tampa continues their strong play of late as they improved to (8-1-1) in their last ten games beating a surprisingly slumping Devils 2-1. The Lightning were seventeen seconds away from shutting out the Devils but Steve Sullivan scored his 12th of the season. Scoring for Tampa were Bill Guerin and Robert Lang, who scored his team leading 29th of the season. Brian Elliott won his 31st start, stopping 17 shots. Craig Adams of the Devils was ejected for instigating a fight with Curtis Glencross in the second period.

Reporting for The WCHL Network...........
Peter Pucker

The Saturday Recap - April 9th

2011-04-11T21:03:00.001-04:00

New York Islanders (3) vs Boston (5)
Center Brendan Morrison scored twice for Boston as the Bruins defeated the Isles 5-3. The Bruins lead 3-0 before the ten minute mark of the opening stanza. Brad Richards potted two for the Isles before the period ended but the Isle's season of misery continued with their 34th defeat in their 62nd game. Mikko Koivu and Milan Hedjuk had (1-1-2) for the Bruins and Craig Anderson stopped 28 shots for his 43rd win of the season.

San Jose (4) vs Buffalo (2)
Tonight in Buffalo it was the Staal show. Younger brother Jordan out-scored his brother Eric 2-1 as they single handedly beat the Sabres. Dany Heatley chipped in with a goal and an assist. Brian Boyle and R.J Umberger scored for Buffalo who lost for only the third time in ten games, and fell four points behind the Rangers for 4th in the East. The win enabled SanJose to re-claim 1st place in the West. Cam Ward won his 43rd of the season stopping 18 shots.

Edmonton (2 ) vs St. Louis (3)
Two teams heading in different directions lately met in St.Louis. The Blues won their 5th in a row and are now just a single point out of a play-off in the West. With four straight losses Edmonton slipped seven points behind eighth placed Anaheim. Scoring for the Blues were Daniel Paille, Thomas Vanek and Ryan Smith, while Steve Mason won for just 12th time stopping 32 shots. Tomas Vokoun dropped his record to 29-32-4 in the loss, as Ian Lapperiere and Marcus Johansson replied for the Oil.

Phoenix (0) vs Washington (5)
The Caps were less than gracious hosts as they nutered the heavily under dogged Coyotes by the score of 5-0. Jordan Eberle scored twice and Steve Begin and Todd Bertuzzi had a goal and an assist each, while Jose Theodore registered his 4th shut-out of the season. The play-offs are still a long shot for Washington as they are 22 points out with 22 games remaining but stranger things have happened.

Atlanta (5) vs Anaheim (4) S/O
This game was a see-saw affair that saw Anaheim's David Backes send it into O/T and then a S/O with just twenty-five seconds remaining in regulation. Atlanta depended heavily on their powerplay as the scored three time on six attempts. Martin St.Louis was the only shooter to score in the shoot out giving the Thrashers the two points and enabling them to move into a first place tie with idle Philadelphia for first in the East. James Neal (1-2-3) and Tom Poti (0-3-3) led Atlanta. While Sid the Kid had a goal and an assist for the Ducks.

Tampa Bay (6) vs Montreal (4)
The home team lead 3-1 after one, but three goals in 3:30 for the Lightning in the second period turned this game around, Tampa would add another two in the third and leave Quebec with the two points. Alexei Zhitnik registered four assists and David Legwand scored twice for Tampa who with five straight wins moved into a tie for 8th in the East. J.P Dumont (2-0-2), Jaromir Jagr and Ryan Kesler (1-1-2) replied for Montreal, who with three straight losses trail eighth place by twelve points.

Chicago (0) vs Dallas (3)
Roberto Luongo stopped 30 shots for his 4th shut-out of the season while Alex Ovechkin scored his 51st goal of the season to pull eleven goals ahead of both his teammate (Brian Gionta) and the Flame's Marian Gaborik. Mike Modano had a pair of helpers for the Stars. The win vaulted Dallas past the Flames for third and are just three points behind San Jose for tops in the West.

Reporting for WCHL Network...
Peter Pucker

The Saturday Recap - March 12th

2011-03-15T14:42:00.001-04:00

Vancouver (2) vs Detroit (1)
Mattias Ohlund's second goal of the season broke a 1-1 tie in the third period to stretch the Canuck's win streak to three games and moved them within 8 points of Detroit in 4th place in the West. Wojtek Wolski also scored for Vancouver while Miikka Kiprusoff stopped 23 shots in net for his 26th victory. Nik Antropov replied for Detroit who lost for just the 3rd time in their last ten games, Evgeni Nabokov was outstanding for the Wings in the loss, stopping 31 shots. Steve Ott was injured just 29 seconds into the game as he pulled his groin while stepping on the ice for his first shift, Ott was listed day-to-day.

NJ (4) vs Calgary (3)
In this chippy rivalry things looked rather tame through two periods until Nik Hagman's kneeing major on John Madden at the end of the second period with teams tied at two. Marty Reasoner was injured at the 14:20 mark (when he suffered a strained knee and will be lost to the Flames for at least two games), then just about minute and a half later there was a line brawl with the main combatants being Jamie Benn and Brad Winchester (in which Benn got the better of and left Winchester leaving for repairs), Benn was ejected from the game for instigating and received an automatic two game suspension. Joe Corvo and Vinny Lecavalier also dropped the gloves but that was a saw off as the linesmen got in to break that one up quickly.When the gloves were all picked up the Devils left Cow-town with the two points. Dwayne Roloson stopped 26 shots for his 26th win of the season for New Jersey.

Washington (6) vs Toronto (0)
Toronto lost to the Capitals for the third time this season and second time by a 6-0 score on Saturday. The Leafs must have known they were in trouble early as they were outshot in first period 14-4 and trailed 2-0. T.J. Oshie (2-1-3), Anton Volchenkov (1-2-3) and Brett Clark (0-3-3) were a major reason for the Caps success on the night as was Jose Theodore as he bounced back from a poor outing in his last game (a 5-1 loss to Calgary) by stopping 16 shots for his third shut-out of the season.

Buffalo (3) vs New York Rangers (2)
The Sabres went into the Big Apple and left with a well deserved, much needed two points in their hopes to secure a playoff position as they out-lasted the Rangers 3-2. Tomas Plekanec scored the winning goal for Buffalo just 14 seconds into the third. Shane Doan with his 14th and Tomas Fleischmann with his 16th scored for the Rangers. Chad Larose (11th) and Zbynek Michalek added markers for the Sabres in the second period. Jimmy Howard stopped 35 shots for his 25th win.

Boston (1) vs Atlanta (3)
The Bruins dropped their second straight game after running off 14 straight wins, this time to Atlanta, who themselves are having trouble stringing W's together. After allowing the first goal, the Thrashers rang the next three off for the win and closed within 6 points of idle Philadelphia for top spot in the East. Rene Bourque scored for Boston while Henrik Sedin, James Neal and Mason Raymond tallied for Atlanta. Martin Brodeur continues to rack up wins with his 29th. Bryan Allen was ejected early in the first when he used his stick as a toothpick for Mikko Koivu and earned himself a butt-end major and game misconduct.

Phoenix (0) vs LA (5)
The Coyotes were caged in LA as the Kings shut-out Phoenix 5-0. It was 4-0 before the Coyotes showed any bite, but they insisted on using their fist instead of their sticks, the result was a line brawl with Dan Lacouture taking on David Steckel and getting Hazel Mae's nod. Rusty Klesla and John Zeiler fought to a draw but Zeiler was ejected when he broke away from the official and tried to get into the LA penalty box after Klesla earning him an automatic three game suspension. Jared Boll also destroyed Mark Streit in the mis-match of the night. When the scoring ended, rookie Oliver Setzinger (2-1-3) was the offensive star and Radek Bonk added (1-1-2) for LA. Ryan Miller had an easy night kicking aside a measly 14 shots.

Minnesota (4) vs Nashville (7)
The Wild were tamed by Nashville as Ondrej Pavelec stopped 23 shots for his 11th win of the season. The Preds built a 6-0 lead before Minnesota showed any signs of life. Marcel Hossa and Steve Downie both had a pair of goals and Jiri Hudler (1-2-3) were the stars for Nashville. Sergei Fedorov with two goals and Tuomas Pihlman (1-1-2) scored for Minny.

New York Islanders (3) vs Montreal (4) S/O
The Canadiens had a 3-1 lead halfway through the third period but with less than five minutes remaining in the game, Patric Hornqvist and Alex Frolov tied the game up for the Islanders and sent the game into OT, where no scoring was done so it was onto the shoot out. After four rounds no one had scored then Frolov was stopped by Jonathon Quick and Owen Nolan would tuck a beautiful forehand-backhand deke between Carey Price's legs for the winner. Ruslan Salei had (1-1-2) for Montreal as Quick collected his 18th win of the season. Frolov added an assist to his goal late in the third for a two point night.

St. Louis (2) vs Columbus (6)
Jason Spezza with his first hat-trick of the season led his Blue Jackets to a blow out win over the Blues from St.Louis. The Blues scored the first and last goals of the game but couldn't amass anything in the other 58 minutes. Columbus has won two straight and are 9-1 in last 10 at home. The win allowed them to leap-frog Anaheim and into 7th place in the West. Also scoring for Columbus were Kris Versteeg (2-1-3), Daymond Langkow (1-2-3) and Vaclav Prospal added three helpers. Johan Hedberg won his 18th stopping 17 shots. Jarred Smithson (1-1-2) and Daniel Paille (1-0-1) scored for St.Louis.

Colorado (5) vs Anaheim (1)
The Avalanche went into Anaheim and froze them out winning 5-1. Mike Cammalleri led the way with a pair of goals. Keith Ballard and Derek Roy both had (1-1-2). Cammalleri scored his 27th and 28th in the second period to put Colorado ahead 4-0 and pretty much seal the win. Andrew Brunette scored the lone goal for Aanaheim who are 3-6-1 in their last 10 home games. The Avs took over 1st place in the West with the win (their 3rd in a row) and are now 2 points ahead of SanJose. Ilya Bryzgalov won his 32nd of the season. Mike Comodore of the Avs was assessed a five minute major and an automatic game ejection for his head butt on Mike Ribeiro. who wasn't injured on the play.

Pittsburgh (2) vs Tampa Bay (7)
It's fair to say Pittsburgh left their "A" game back in the Steel City as they were thoroughly embarrassed by Tampa by a score of 7-2. Tampa who are on a bit of a tear in the WCHL are 8-1-0-1 in their last ten games strengthened their hold on a play-off spot with the win. The Lightning led 3-1 after one, added a three spot in the second and one more in the third to finish off the Pens. Robert Lang and Curtis Glencross both had (1-2-3), while Karlis Skrastins had three assists for Tampa. Brian Elliot was outstanding kicking out 24 of 26 for his 18th win. Teemu Selanne (1-1-2) and Alex Semin replied for Pittsburgh. Fernando Pisani left the game late in the first with a sprained left ankle and is listed day-to-day.

Chicago (6) vs Edmonton (4)
The Blackhawks arrived in Edmonton on a 5 game win streak and the streak looked to be coming to an end as the Oilers led 3-1 after one. Key the come back as Chicago scored four goals in the second period, two of those on the powerplay, as the Hawks escaped with a 6-4 victory. Rookie Sean Backman was a major contributor as he scored twice and assisted once for his first three point game in the WCHL. Recently acquired Kyle Cuminsky had three assists and Chris Drury had a pair of goals. Ryan Clowe had a great game in a losing cause with (2-2-4), while Jordan Leopold had a goal and an assist. Tim Thomas registered his 18 victory of the season. The win moved Chicago within five points of eighth in the West. All was not good news for Chicago as they lost defenseman Tom Gilbert with a cut wrist tendon and will be lost for at least a month.

Reporting for The WCHL Network.........

Peter Pucker

The Saturday Recap - March 5th

2011-03-08T11:49:00.006-05:00

Florida (7) vs New York Islanders (5)
The Panters and Isles engaged in an offensive display forgetting about the defense on Saturday. Matt Stajan had what has to be his best offensive performance to date of his career in the WCHL. Stajan scored five times.......... YES FIVE TIMES people !! To lead his Panthers to victory, oh ya he added an assist for a season high 6 points. If the Isles hadn't scored two late markers to make the final 7-5, this game would have looked ugly. Andrej Meszaros, Phil Kessel and Ruslan Fedotenko all collected three assists nights for Florda. Roman Hamrlik (2-1-3), Brad Richards (1-2-3) and Corey Perry (0-3-3) all played a large part in New York's scoring. With the win Florida moves withing 6 points of 8th place Tampa in the East.

Anaheim (4) vs Minnesota (2)
Two goals in thirty seconds had Minnesota leading 2-1 after 40 minutes, and carrying the play out shooting Anaheim 20-13. However a three goal third period on seventeen shots by the Ducks (two on the powerplay) and Anaheim left Minnesota with the two points. Defenseman Johnny Oduya (1-2-3), and Brad Stuart (2-0-2), and forward Ryan Malone (1-2-3) lead the Ducks. Raffi Torres and Aaron Miller both scored for Minnesota. Tuukka Rask stopped 23 shots for his 21st win. Anaheim was 3 for 6 on powerplay and with the win have now won three straight.

Atlanta (1) vs Detroit (4)
Peter Olvecky had two goals to lead the home town Wings past the high potent offense of Atlanta. Lubomir Vinovsky's goal at 7:46 of the second period broke a 1-1 tie and Steve Reinprecht scored late in the third for Detroit to squash any chance of a Thrasher comeback. Jan Hejda scored the lone marker for Atlanta who lost for the first time in three contests. Evgeni Nabokov stopped 22 shots for his 26th win of the season.

NJ (9) vs Phoenix (0)
This really wasn't a contest at all. New Jersey completely and utterly embarrassed the Coyotes on their home ice (but at least the fans still went home happy on Snuggie night at the arena). A four goal first period was more than enough, the Coyotes should have been euthenized after 20 minutes as they refused to put up any resistance, being out-shot 41-10 by the Devils through the game. Tyler Bozak (2-2-4) lead the offense for New Jersey, seven Devils had two point nights, with David Perron and Niklas Hagman each chipping in a pair of goals. Dwayne Roloson had his easiest game in awhile as he turned aside all 10 shots he faced for his 3rd WCHL shut-out of the season.

St. Louis (3) vs Colorado (8)
Loui Eriksson scored a hat-trick and two assists to lead the Avalanche to a 8-3 dismantling of the Blues. Matt Cooke had a pair of goals during a five goal first period, and a host of other Avalanche players had two point nights. Ilya Bryzgalov stopped 20 shots for his 29th win. Alex Svitov had two goals and rookie Blake Evans had the other for the Blues who have dropped three of their last five games.

Edmonton (2) vs Chicago (5)
Bryce Salvadore scored a hat-trick while teammates Nick Boynton and Ryan Potulny each contributed three assists as the Blackhawks beat the Oilers 5-2. Two goals in twenty seconds in the second period was all Chicago needed to bury the Oil. Tim Thomas turned aside 17 saves for his 14th victory of the season. Ryan Clowe with a goal and Yannick Riendeau with a goal and an assist were the offense for Edmonton.

Ottawa (5) vs Toronto (4)
This edition of the Battle of Ontario was played in "The Big Smoke" otherwise known as Toronto. The Leafs started out great as they notched three in the first period on ten shots, then it was Ottawa's turn as they scored three in the second to take a 4-3 lead. Toronto tied it in the third but a very late goal by Sen's Jarkko Ruutuu with 1:21 remaining in regulation would be the winner and the Ottawa fans that had travelled down for the game errupted in celebration. Jarkko Ruutuu had (1-2-3) and Antti Miettinen (2-0-2) lead the Sens, Manny Legace came in in relief for Ottawa and was credited with the win saving 10 of the 11 shots he faced.
For the Leafs it was defenseman Wade Redden with (1-2-3) and forward Tim Jackman (1-1-2) that led the way.

Calgary (2) vs New York Rangers (1)
This tightly contested game played by two of the league's better teams was not disappointing. After a scoreless first Mike Richards scored his 19th to put the Flames on top at 7:28, but the Rangers replied just 1:05 later on a goal by Anze Kopitar, his 20th. David Clarkson would score the winner for the Flames with Ranger's Shane Doan serving a penalty for holding at 4:18 of the third and Jonas Hiller would do the rest shutting down New York, he stopped 26 shots for his 16th victory of the season. The win was somewhat bittersweet as the Flames lost both Nick Foligno (a slight sprained left ankle) for about a week and Jamie McBain (bruised left foot) is listed day-to-day afte blocking a shot.

Dallas (5) vs Washington (2)
The Stars jumped all over Washington, after surrendering the first marker, by scoring three straight to end the first 3-1 and added two more in second to blow game wide open. T.J. Oshie scored his 14th of the season on the powerplay early in third period but the game was out of reach by then. Mike Lundin had a trio of assists for the Stars while Brian Pothier, Jakub Voracek and Tore Vikingstad all had (1-1-2). Roberto Luongo won for his 23rd time this season as he stopped 24 shots. Jose Theodore surrendered 4 goals on 14 shots before being replaced by Marty Turco in the Capitals net. Oshie had an assist to go along with his goal and Anton Volchenkov had a pair of assists for the Caps.

LA (2) vs Nashville (0)
Evgeny Dadonov and Jay Bouwmeester (on powerplay) scored goals for LA while Ryan Miller stopped 27 shots to register his 18th victory and his 4th shut-out of the season. LA has won 3 straight and is now within 5 points of the eighth and final playff spot in the West. Nashville lost their third straight and is 3-7 in last ten games and are starting to see the possibility of missing the playoffs become a reality. Ondrej Pavelec stopped 26 shots in the loss.

Pittsburgh (2) vs San Jose (5)
The Sharks feasted on Penguin on Saturday night, winning easily 5-2. San Jose scored three in the first and another two in the third. The Pens had 15 extra man chances and scored on just two of them. The Sharks were 3 for 6 with the extra man. Dany Heatley scored a goal and two assists while Eric Staal added a pair of helpers for San Jose. Alex Semin and Jarret Stoll found the back of the net for Pittsburgh. Cam Ward stopped 33 shots for the win, his 34th. Pittsburgh failed to make up any ground on Conference leading Philly but San Jose seems to have gotten back on the track now with their second win in a row and are 5-5 in last ten.

Philly (2) vs Boston (5)
Philly went into Boston and took on the leagues hottest team as the Bruins had a 11 game streak going into Saturday's match. Boston evened up the season series with a 5-2 victory. Actually if not for Chris Mason's play on the night (stopping 38 shots) the game could have easily hit double digits. The Flyers were only able to fire 10 shots in the game (not period) at Craig Anderson who had an easy night for his 30th win on the season. Jeremy Williams had a pair of goals for Boston while Brendan Morrison, Chris Pronger and Colby Armstrong all had two assists for Pittsburgh. Mike Green and Scott Hartnell scored for Philly. The Flyers lead in the East shrunk to just three points with the Bruins victory.

Reporting for The WCHL Network...............
Peter Pucker

The Saturday Recap - Feburary 26th

2011-02-28T16:08:00.006-05:00

Sorry for the delay (and the missed weeks). Without further ado...

Colorado (4) vs Edmonton (2)
Two goals and an assist by Av's Matt Cooke paced Colorado to a 4-2 win over the Oilers at Rexall Center in Edmonton. Colorado led 3-1 after 40 minutes. Edmonton would cut the lead to one on a Ray Whitney powerplay goal at the 5:23 mark of the third. Matt Cooke's second of the game restored the Av's two goal lead and helped move Colorado within two points of San Jose for 1st in the Western Conference. Francois Beauchemin and Patrick Sharp both added (1-1-2) and Michael Cammalleri had two helpers for the Avs, while Ilya Bryzgalov stopped 34 shots for his 25th win. Yannik Riendeau scored Edmonton's other marker while defenseman Jordan Leopold assisted on both goals.

Nashville (4) vs Columbus (7)
The Predators hit a sour note as they were thoroughly beat by Columbus. A three goal first period powered the Blue Jackets to the win, led by Dean McAmmond's hat-trick and Michael Handzus' one goal and three assists the game was never in question for Columbus. Marcel Goc tossed in three helpers and Johan Hedberg made 17 saves for the win. Jiri Hudler had a pair, Glen Metropolit and Zach Bogosian had the other goals for Nashville.

Calgary (4) vs San Jose (1)
San Jose's losing streak has reached a season high four games with this most recent loss to the Flames. Calgary scored all four of their goals on the powerplay, the Sharks seemed to be a step behind Calgary all night as most of their penalties (14) were for hooking and holding. Four different players scored for the Flames, while Joe Corvo and Steven Stamkos had two asists each. Calgary's Jonas Hiller made 21 saves for the win, his 13th. Zach Parise scored on the Sharks first shot on net at the 0:21 mark of the first, Jamie McBain destroyed Trevor Daley, leaving him leaking all over the ice, in a fight just five seconds later during a line brawl which seemed to light a fire under the Flames as they didn't look back. McBain was ejected for intent to injure.

St. Louis (5) vs Dallas (2)
Steve Mason stopped 27 Star's shots as he backstopped the Blues to a 5-2 win over the talented Stars. Jarred Smithson had two goals and an assist, while Thomas Vanek had three assists to power the Blues. David Krejci (1-1-2) and Alex Ovechkin (0-2-2) were the offense for Dallas. Roberto Luongo took over for John Grahame in Star's net after the latter yielded four goals on 20 shots. Despite the loss the Stars played in front of a sold out house of 21,500 and continue to be one of the better draws in the league, averaging almost 21,000 fans. With the loss Dass failed to make up any ground on Colorado for second in the West.

Pittsburgh (3) vs Philly (7)
The Pens travelled down the turnpike to Philly and had hoped to build on a two game win streak including a 5-1 win the last time these two teams met just four nights ago. The Flyers returned the favor as they would score four in the second period with Philly up just 2-1 and add two more in the third to ground the flightless birds. Jeff Carter led the charge with a hat-trick including his team leading 24th on the powerplay early in the third period to put the game out of reach before the Pens added two late goals to make the score a bit more respectful. Jason Pominville also scored a pair for the Flyers who are 9-1 in their last ten games at Wells Fargo Center, with the win Philly stretched their lead ver the Pens by five points. For the Pens, Alex Semin had a goal and an assist while Andrei Markov had two helpers.

Anaheim (2) vs Phoenix (1)
Vesa Toskala stopped 27 shots for Phoenix but the offense in front of him dried up as the desert dogs dropped the tenth game of their last twelve. Anaheim got goals from Rick Nash and Mike Ribeiro,while Hugh Jeesiman tallied for the Coyotes. With the win Anaheim moved within one point of Edmonton for the eighth and final playoff spot in the West. Only just over 7,000 fans came out of the heat in Glendale to watch the Coyotes drop their 25th game.

Atlanta (3) vs NJ (4) OT
Daniel Sedin scored a hat-trick, his third on the powerplay in the third to send the game into OT, but the Devil's Brook Laich spoiled the effort as he scored his 17th of the season 1:10 into the extra frame and sent the Devil faithful home happy. Henrik Sedin assisted on two of his brothers goals and Martin Brodeur stopped 17 shots in suffering his 8th loss this season. Devil's Dwayne Roloson stopped 19 and won for his 19th time this season. Laich added an assist for a two point night, Tomas Kaberle and Vincent Lecavalier both registered a pair of assists for the winners.

LA (2) vs Vancouver (4)
Vancouver would score twice in the first and would be up 3-0 by the 3:38 mark of the second before LA showed any push back. LA would score the next two goals to come within one of the Canucks but Alexei Ponikarovsky would score his second of the night into an empty net with just twenty seconds remaining to put game away. Vancouver won for the second night in a row and kept within 5 points of 5th place Calgary. Steve Ott led the Canucks with (1-2-3) while Marc-Andre Bergeron had (1-1-2). Miikka Kiprusoff won his 20th of the season while stopping 25 shots. Paul Stastny led LA (1-1-2), Ryan Miller lost his 18th of the season in net for LA.

Reporting for WCHL Network...
Peter Pucker

The Saturday Recap - February 5th

2011-02-08T00:01:00.006-05:00

San Jose (2) @ Florida (6)
The most dominate team in the WCHL was thoroughly dominated in Sunrise Fla., as the Sharks came into the game having only lost twice in 25 games this season before tonight. Florida scored early (:34 second into the first) and often, scoring six times on 35 shots. Cam Ward was pulled for the first time this season after surrendering four goals on nineteen shots. Chris Campoli scored two powerplay goals in the Panther's three goal burst in ther first. Others having a great night for Florida were, Phil Kessel and Adrej Meszaros (1-2-3), Pekke Rinne stopped 27 of 29 shots for the Cats. The lone shinning star for the Sharks was Dany Heatley (0-2-2).

Anaheim (2) @ Detroit (4)
The Ducks were motored down by Detroit as the 'Wings scored four times with the extra skater- three of those in the first period. Lubomir "Lubey" Visnovsky tallied twice giving him eight on the season for Detroit, Nik Antropov had three assists giving him the team scoring lead with 29 points. Ryan Malone and rookie Logan Couture scored for Anaheim, while Tuukka Rask stopped 21 shots in the loss. Evgeni Nabokov moved his record to 12-8-2 on the season with the win.

Phoenix (5) @ Minnesota (4)
The Coyotes had a 4-0 lead after just 30 minutes and seemed content to sit back. Although the third period started well for them as they stretched their lead to 5-1, Minnesota for their part did not fold up as they scored three times to close the period however that is as close they would come as they fell just short of the improbable come back. Petteri Nokelainen (2-1-3) was first star for Phoenix, three other players had (1-1-2) for the 'Yotes. Gilbert Brule had a pair of goals (and a fight) while Paul Kariya had a trio of assists for the Wild.

Carolina (6) @ New Jersey (2)
The season seems to be getting away from the Devils as they suffered their fifth lost in six games in a demoralizing 6-2 beat down at the hands of the 13th placed Hurricanes. It was 4-0 'Canes by the 5:48 mark of the second period, powered by two extra man markers. Cristobal Huet stopped 27 shots for the win and Scott Gomez (2-2-4) was amazing, Brendan Witt (0-4-4), and Mike Fisher (2-1-3) also were stand-outs. Brooks Laich (1-1-2) led the Devils, while Dwayne Roloson was pulled after giving up four goals on fifteen shots for New Jersey. The lone sore spot for Carolina was the injury suffered by Justin Williams, team reps say Williams aggravated an old injury to his left knee and will be out for two days for precautionary measures.

Ottawa (3) @ Pittsburgh (5)
Bobby Ryan led the Penguins with his two goal second period outburst to help Pittsburgh past the Sens. The game was up for grabs in the third at 3-2 Sens, but then the Pens' struck for three goals in three minutes late in the third including two straight on the powerplay to put the game away. Marc-Andre Fleury won for the 15th time this season stopping 15 shots while defensemen Dan Boyle and recently acquired Ron Hainsey had a goal and an assist for Pittsburgh. Ales Kotalik (2 goals) and Brad Lukowich (2 assists) were the offense for Ottawa. Senator's Antti Miettinen left the game in the second period with a bruised arm after being hit into the boards by Nathan Horton but is won't miss any time.

St.Louis (2) @ Vancouver (3) S/O
Jerred Smithson's fourth goal of the season with just over four minutes remaining in regulation tied the game for the Blues and sent the game into overtime. Daniel Alfredsson was the only skater to score in the shoot out sending the Canuck faithful out on the street in a jovial mood. Defenseman Milan Jurcina had a pair of assists for Vancouver while Miikka Kiprusoff stopped 22 shots for the win. All wasn't positive for Vancouver as Shawn Thornton was lost to the team for atleast a week with what the team is calling a lower body injury. Steve Mason played well in the loss, stopping 30 shots.

Calgary (3) @ Philly (4) OT
Ryan Getzlaf scored at the 2:43 mark of OT on the Flyers second shot of extra time for their fourth straight win. The Flyers had a 3-1 lead at the 1:26 mark of the third and seem to be satisfied with that, Calgary on the other hand had other ideas as they scored twice in the period, the tying goal coming on the powerplay while Getzlaf was in the box for slashing. Getzlaf paid back his team for kiling the penalty off when his shot in OT found the back of the net. Jeff Carter seems to be fully recovered from an injury earlier this season as he fired (1-2-3), gritty Scott Hartnell scored a pair while young Kyle Cumisky had a pair of helpers for the Flyers. Chris Mason was outstanding as he stopped 45 shots in the win as the Flyers were out-shot 48-21 in the game. Jonas Hiller stopped three of four shots he faced in relief of Flames starter Sergei "Bob" Bobrovsky who allowed three goals on 17 shots.

Washington (3) @ Columbus (4) S/O
The Capitals were comfortably ahead 3-0 after two periods while being out-shot 21-10. The Blue Jackets made their shots count in the third as they scored three on ten shots to tie the game at three. No further goals were scored in the period so it was off to extra time but they could not settle it there and it was off to the exciting art of the shoot-out. Jason Spezza scored the only goal in the shoot-out to complete the come back for the Blue Jackets. Jamie Langenbrunner had a goal and an assist for Columbus while Johan Hedberg had 14 saves in the win. T.J Oshie and Tim Connolly both had a pair of assists and Jose Theodore made 29 saves in regulation and overtime. Tyler Kennedy left the game for Columbus halfway through the first and didn't return, he is listed as day-to-day with what is believed to be a right knee injury.

Reporting for The WCHL Network........
Peter Pucker

Season 12 Power Rankings - 3rd Edition

2011-02-05T20:23:00.004-05:00

WCHL players seem to be having trouble with empty nets...

The San Jose Sharks are in the process of one of the most amazing stretches to start a season in WCHL history. After 24 games, the Sharks sport a 22-1-1 record with their only blemishes coming to the middling Oilers and a shootout loss to Nashville. Zach Parise and his linemate Dany Heatley are continuing their hot starts and sit in 5th and 7th respectively in league scoring. Scoring 6 or more goals seven times so far, the Sharks are nearly doubling their opponent's in every game. A recent poll of a few WCHL GM's suggests that there is some jealousy league-wide about the Sharks' season so far, as most GMs are suggesting this team will be unable to win more than 34 out of their final 58 games, which would be needed to top 120 points. With the Sharks currently on pace for 153 points, it's pretty safe to say you can pencil the Sharks into the post-season perhaps earlier than any other team in WCHL history.

At the other end, the Ottawa Senators have announced they'll be wearing bright orange jerseys from now on to better reflect their new defensive "pylon" system. Doug Weight might be the worst 1st line centre in the league with only 6 points, and one can't help but feel bad for Antti Miettinen who seems to be the only player who actually shows up to each game. With only two wins so far this season, it's fairly safe to argue that the Sens are gunning for that top pick in the Tavares/Hedman/Duchene lottery.

Elsewhere in the league, Marian Gaborik of the Calgary Flames has created some space between himself and Dallas' Alex Ovechkin for the scoring lead. Gaborik's 140 point pace will be tough to maintain, especially for a player that is notoriously made of glass, but there's no doubt he's making a case for himself as a potential WCHL MVP.

Finally, in what has perhaps become the weirdest phenomenon in the league, empty net goals have become virtually non-existent. Only twice in 371 games has there been an ENG. On first glance, one would assume that goalies aren't being pulled in the last minute, but that's actually not the case. The best guess seems to be that the goalies may be tying fishing line across the posts to prevent goals while no one else is looking...

Here's this week's Power Rankings:

Rank	Previous Rank	Team
1	1	San Jose
2	6	Colorado
3	4	Atlanta
4	2	New York Rangers
5	7	Philadelphia
6	3	Pittsburgh
7	16	Buffalo
8	9	Calgary
9	5	Dallas
10	12	Boston
11	21	Montreal
12	8	Vancouver
13	18	Detroit
14	14	New Jersey
15	17	Anaheim
16	13	Edmonton
17	15	Tampa Bay
18	24	Columbus
19	19	Washington
20	25	Florida
21	27	Los Angeles
22	23	St. Louis
23	10	Chicago
24	11	New York Islanders
25	26	Nashville
26	28	Toronto
27	30	Phoenix
28	22	Carolina
29	20	Minnesota
30	29	Ottawa

The Saturday Recap - January 29th

2011-01-30T22:58:00.004-05:00

St. Louis (4) @ Detroit (3)

The Blues drove into The Motor City and clipped the Wings 4-3. Detroit tried as they might to come out on top by firing 41 shots at Nik Backstrom but he was the difference in this one by turning aside 38 of those shots. Devin Setoguchi scored twice in the game, including the winner for the Blues on the powerplay midway through the third, in fact three of St.Louis' four goals were scored on the powerplay. Ryan Smyth and Peter Forsberg had a pair of assists also for St.Louis. Eight different players registered a point for Detroit but it wasn't enough. Evgeni Nabokov who was tagged with the loss for the Wings, made 18 saves on 22 shots.

Calgary (3) @ Carolina (1)

The Flames scored all the offense they would need, in the second period as they scored three times in the period, two of those on the powerplay. Carolina would score once in the third to ruin rookie Sergei "Bob" Bobrovsky's shot at his first career WCHL shut-out. Joe Corvo (1-1-2) and Marian Gaborik (0-2-2) led the offense for Calgary. Ales Hemsky half way through the third was the only 'Cane to find the back of the net.

Toronto (0) @ Washington (5)

Unlikely goal scorer Scott Nichol instilled he's own style of Capital punishment on the Maple Leafs as he fired three goals in a 5-0 white-wash of Toronto. Anssi Salmela (0-3-3) and Sean Avery (0-2-2) also had great nights for the all checking line scoring line. Jose Theodore stopped all 23 shots he faced to record his second shut-out this season. The game wasn't the only thing the Leafs lost, rookie center Ryan Stone was lost to the team for at least a week with what the team is calling a lower body injury.

Tampa Bay (7) @ New Jersey (1)

No I didn't write the score backwards, The Lightning went into "The Swamp" and made New Jersey's night a living hell as they handed them their second straight loss (after eight straight wins). Tampa scored twice in the first and second periods while turning the trick in the third, the only blemish on Brian Elliot's record for the night was a Chris Kunitz's goal midway through the second. Brian Rafalski and Jere Lehtinen led the Lightning (2-1-3). The Devils fired a low 12 shots at Brian Elliot in Tampa's net.

NY Rangers (4) @ Philly (3)

The Rangers broke the Philly's three game win streak with a 4-3 road win. The game started well for the Flyers as they jumped out 1-0 at the 1:18 mark of the first period, but it was pretty much downhill from there as the Rangers would score four of the next six goals. Anze Kopitar (0-3-3) and Shane Doan (2-1-3) led the Rangers while King Henrik made 25 saves. Matt Moulson (0-2-2) continued to carry a hot stick and Scott Hartnell (1-1-2) led the way for the Flyers, who are 6-4 in their last ten home games. The Rangers are alone atop the Eastern Conference with a 8-2 record in their last ten games. Scott Hartnell and ex-Flyer Chris Phillips renewed acquaintances as they dropped the gloves in the third period, with Hazel May's grey skirt calling it a draw.

Nashville (3) @Colorado (6)

Colorado got out to a 2-0 lead after one pretty evenly played period but the two teams exploded for seven goals on 30 shots in the second and after the smoke settled the Avs had sent Nashville packing on the wrong end of a 6-3 drubbing. Troy Brouwer not known for his goal scoring did most of the damage for Colorado as he had a career four goal game, Blake Comeau and Nick Lidstrom both had three helpers. Guillaume Latendresse and Jesse Niinimaki led Nashville with (1-1-2), Jiri Hudler chipped in a pair of assists.

Atlanta (6) @ Boston (3)

The Thrashers, trying to keep pace with the Rangers doubled up on the Bruins 6-3. The Bruins kept it close after two as they were only down by one after fourty minutes but Atlanta came out in the third and put the game away with three goals. Atlanta had five players with two points including James Neal (2-0-2) but it was Mason Raymond and Patrik Berglund that led the way (0-3-3). Brendan Morrison led the Bruins (1-1-2). Martin Brodeur got his 14th win of the season.

Phoenix (3) @ Dallas (1)

The game was tightly played for two periods as the two teams were deadlocked at one. Phoenix came out in the third and scored two early period goals to put the game away. Eric Brewer had two goals for Phoenix and Alex Auld had 20 saves for his fifth win of the season. Brian Gionta had the lone marker for Dallas as Roberto had an off night allowing three goals on twenty shots.

Reporting for The WCHL Network
Peter Pucker

The Saturday Recap

2011-01-24T10:14:00.004-05:00

Columbus (5) @ St.Louis (3)

The Blue Jackets went into St.Louis on a two game win streak and early on it looked like that's where it would stop but then, cue the come back. The Blues were up 3-1 just three minutes into the second period, then just eighteen seconds later the Blue Jackets started their come back. Four goals in an eleven minute span was more than enough to send the Blues' faithful home signing a sour note again. Leading the way for Columbus was Jason Speeza (1-2-3), Johan Hedberg registered the win stopping 21 of 24 shots. Daniel Paille scored twice for the Blues and Steve Mason stopped all 6 shots he faced after relieving Niklas Backstrom (in the second period), who allowed 5 goals on 20 shots. Marcel Goc was lost to Columbus in the second period with what the team is calling back spasms but is not expected to miss any games.

Vancouver (4) @ Calgary (1)

The Canucks went to Cowtown and doused the Flames by a score of 4-1. Vancouver scored 4 goals on 22 shots and led 4-0 after two. Calgary finally decided to play some hockey in the third as they fired 17 shots on Miikka Kiprusoff beating him just once, alittle too little, too late. Alex Ponikarovsky (0-3-3) and Pavel Datsyuk (1-2-3) led the offense for the Canucks, while Marion Gaborik was the only Flame to beat Kipper who stopped a total of 29 shots.

Dallas (6) @ Chicago (4)

A total of eight goals were scored in the game's first 16 minutes as the Stars put up a five spot and led 5-3, each team scored one more in the third. Both teams used their back ups in the game in hopes of swinging the momentum. Rookie Mike Lundin had a pair of goals to led Dallas. Jason Blake (1-2-3), Bryce Salvador (1-1-2) and Evgeny Artyukhin (0-2-2) led Chicago. Roberto Luongo perserved the win for John Grahame, as he stopped all seven shots he faced in relief.

Colorado (5) @ NY Islanders (1)

The Avs went to Uniondale and left the Isles feeling stranded after a 5-1 defeat. Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov lost his shut-out bid with just over a minute remaining in the third on the powerplay with Brendan Morrow serving a questionable interference penalty, Brzy stopped 32 of 33 shots he faced for his 11th win of the season. Mike Cammalleri had three helpers while, Braydon Coburn and David Jones both had (1-1-2) for the Avs. Mike Rozsival was the only one to find the back of the net for the Isles.

Anaheim (6) @ Tampa Bay (4)

The Ducks must love playing on Saturday nights as they won for the third time in a row playing on Saturday. This game was looked to be a laugher early as the Ducks jumped all over the Lightning, perforating Brian Elliot for 5 goals in 19 shots before being replaced by Dan Cloutier who surrendered the final goal of the half sack before Tampa woke up and struck for four goals on 16 shots in the final sixteen minutes of the game but came two goals short of a come back. Andrew Brunette scored a pair while four other Avs had two points in the game. Adrian Aucoin (1-1-2) and Curtis Glencross (0-2-2) led the attack for Tampa Bay.

Minnesota (3) @ Florida (5)

The Wild out-shot Florida 11-2 in the first but the game was tied after the first twenty, and that could very well have been the turning point of the game as the Panthers came out and scored the next three goas to take a 4-1 lead by the 6:41 mark of the second. Minny scored twice in the third to cut the lead to a signle goal but Florida would score the insurance marker on the powerplay late to secure their sixth win in their last ten games. Matt Stajan (1-1-2) and Chris Campoli (0-2-2) led the Panthers and Pekka Rinne registered his 8th victory. Minnesota was led by Paul Kariya (1-1-2). Rookie Darcy Campbell was lost to the Wild early in the first period to what team reps are calling an upper body injury and could be out of the line up as long as three weeks, Campbell is the latest to join the ever growing list of injuries to the Wild, which now sits at five players.

Edmonton (2) @ Nashville (0)

The Oilers went hunting for a victory in Nashville and came away with a 2-0 win. The game was as close as the score would dictate as were the shots with Edmonton winning that stat also at (24-23). Nashville never could find an answer for Jordan Leopold's powerplay goal midway through the first which ended up being the winner. Kurtis Foster had Edmonton's other marker while Tomas Vokoun registered his first shut-out of the season, stopping 23 shots. Ondrej Pavelec stopped 22 shots and played very well for Nashville.

Toronto (1) @ New Jersey (4)

New Jersey's latest win streak reached five games as they powered past the Maple Leafs, 4-1. The Devils lead 2-0 after one and 3-0 after two periods before Toronto got one back on the powerplay in the first minute of the third. Vinny Lecavalier scored eight and a half minutes later also on the PP to restore New Jersey's three goal lead. Dwayne Roloson keeps piling up the wins as he recorded his 12th of the season putting him third in the league in that catagory. Chris Kunitz and Dan Cleary had (1-1-2) on the night for the Devils. Eric Fehr scored the lone goal for the Leafs.

Washington (1) @ Buffalo (3)

The Caps had hoped to build on their modest one game win streak with a visit to Buffalo but the Sabres proved poor hosts as they handed the road team a 3-1 defeat. The game was tied at one after one but the Sabres added a goal in each of the next two periods to salt the game away. Tomas Plekanec and Marian Hossa each had a goal and assist to lead Buffalo. The Caps lone goal was scored by Niklas Bergfors. Jimmy Howard got the win for Buffalo while Jose Theodore was tagged with the loss for Washington.

Pittsburgh (3) @ Boston (4)

Boston is currently riding a three game win streak after defeating their Eastern Conference rivals from Pittsburgh 4-3. These two very good teams left it all out on the ice but if not for the heroics of Marc-Andre Fleury it could have been alot worse as he stopped 29 of 33 shots he faced before being pulled in favor of Martin Gerber who stopped all seven shots he faced in relief. The reasoning for Fleury's hook was being down played by Pens GM Pat Matthews who was quoted as saying "Mind your damn business !!" when questioned after the game. It was rumoured that Matthews was unhappy with the way Fleury had whiffed on the winning goal by Marek Zidlicky and sent the message down to the coach to pull him. The Bruins were led on the score sheet by Chris Pronger (1-1-2) while another defensemen Dan Boyle led the Pens (0-2-2). Bruins' Craig Anderson stopped 18 shots for his 12th win of the season. Pittsburgh lost two players to injury in the game, Andrei Markov took a shot off his right foot and Pat Marleau seemed to be favoring his groin as he exited the locker room after the game. It was thought Markov's injury is nothing more than a stinger and won't miss any time but Marleau could be lost to the team for upto 3 weeks with a badly strained groin.

Atlanta (4) @ Philly (3)

Could the season get any worse for the Flyers? Once the toast of the league, they lost their third in a row and now see themselves in a four-way tie for 2nd in the East. The Flyers were up 3-0 on Atlanta with less than a minute remaining in the second period but surrendered a Tom Poti powerplay goal which seemed to deflate the team and when they returned for the third only one team came to play. Atanta would strike for three straight in the period, on the strength of two James Neal pwerplay goals. Three other Thrashers had two point nights. Jeff Carter had a pair of helpers for the losers, Chris Mason looks as if he maybe tiring having played all 18 of the Flyers games so far this season, allowing four goals on 15 shots. Another one of Philly's troubles was the fact that the team failed to score on ten man advantages on the night.

Reporting for The WCHL Network.........
Peter Pucker

Season 12 Power Rankings - 2nd Edition

2011-01-14T14:08:00.006-05:00

The Dallas Stars celebrate their 7th goal in an 8-0 win over the Leafs

The second edition of the Season 12 Power Rankings sees a lot of movement as every team moves beyond the 10 game mark of the season. Moving up the ladder, Dallas jumped 12 spots by reeling off 5 straight wins including an 8-0 thumping of the lowly Toronto Maple Leafs. Going the other way, the biggest drop belongs to the New Jersey Devils who fell 12 spots due to 5 losses in 6 games after starting the season 6-0.

Toronto has been the league's stat-padder so far as they've been shutout 5 times already, and have losses of 10-0, 8-0, 8-0 7-0 and 5-0. Two of those big losses came at the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins who also have a 10-0 tally over Florida that has helped vault them to a league leading 4.55 goals per game.

Surprisingly, there is a 4 way tie at the top of the scoring race, with two Canucks (Datsyuk and Alfredsson) an Av (Ericksson) and a Flame (Gaborik) all stuck on 18 points. The surprising part isn't that these players are at the top, as they're all big names, but rather none represent a team in the top 5 of this week's Power Rankings.

Here are the second edition of the Power Rankings for Season 12:

Rank Previous Team
1 1 San Jose
2 13 New York Rangers
3 3 Pittsburgh
4 11 Atlanta
5 17 Dallas
6 8 Colorado
7 4 Philadelphia
8 5 Vancouver
9 18 Calgary
10 20 Chicago
11 12 New York Islanders
12 14 Boston
13 21 Edmonton
14 2 New Jersey
15 7 Tampa Bay
16 15 Buffalo
17 6 Anaheim
18 9 Detroit
19 26 Washington
20 16 Minnesota
21 10 Montreal
22 23 Carolina
23 29 St. Louis
24 25 Columbus
25 30 Florida
26 24 Nashville
27 22 Los Angeles
28 28 Toronto
29 19 Ottawa
30 27 Phoenix

The Saturday Recap

2011-01-10T00:32:00.003-05:00

Vancouver (6) @ Philly (1)

After the Flyers ripped off seven straight wins, they have allowed eleven goals in the past two loses including six tonight against the Canucks. The game was tied at 1-1 after one period with the Flyers out-shooting the Canucks 12-5, but an early goal (eight seconds in) by Alfredsson and two subsequent powerplay goals before the end of the second period had the Canucks up by a pair. Vancouver would add two more in the third to complete the rout. Ex-Flyer Scottie Upshall led the Nucks with (2G, 1A) and Wojtek Wolski had three assists. Scottie Hartnell had the lone goal for Philly while being (-3) on the night.

Colorado (3) @ Chicago (5)

The Blackhawks avenged an overtime loss at the hands of the Avs just three nights earlier with a 5-3 win on home ice. Colorado was up 2-1 after one, but Bryce Salvador's second of the season tied things after two. The 'Hawks scored three in the third (two by Josef Vasicek) including the insurance marker by Geno Artyukhin who also had three asists to lead Chicago,Tim Thomas stopped 27 of 30 shots in the win. Ex-Hawk Patrick Sharp led the Avs with (1-1-2).

New Jersey (0) @ Buffalo (4)

Another of the Eastern Conference elite (so far this season) lost their second of the season. The Devils not only lost but were shut-out on the road by the Sabres who presently occupy eighth place in the East. Matt Cullen led the way for Buffalo with (1-1-2), Jimmy "Howie" Howard got his first goose egg of the season stopping all 21 shots he faced. Dwayne Roloson allowed all four goals on 16 shots before being replaced by Jonas "the Monster" Gustavsson just short of the five minute mark of the third for New Jersey.

New York Islanders (1) @ Atlanta (3)

One of the league's top teams that seem set to stay on top won yet again, this time beating a struggling Islander squad 3-1. The Thrashers took a 2-1 lead into the third period where Sergei Gonchar's 4th of the season on the powerplay at the 1:53 mark was the insurance marker. Daniel Sedin and Martin St.Louis both had a pair of assists for Atlanta while Martin Brodeur stopped 23 of 24 shots for his 6th win of the season. With his two points on the night Daniel stretched his team scoring lead over his brother Henrik by two. Corey Perry with his 3rd of the season was the lone goal scorer for the Isles.

Detroit (6) @ Minnesota (7) S/O

Two Western Conference teams that are struggling to find their indentity went toe-to-toe right to the end. The Wild led 4-1 just six minutes into the second period and seemed to sit back a bit, that is all the Wings needed as they scored three times in just over six minutes to tie things up after 40 minutes. Both teams scored twice in the final frame and nothing could be settled in the extra five minutes, so off to the shoot-out where Sergei Fedorov burned his old team as he was the only player to score and Halak stopped Mike Knuble on the final shot to perserve the win for Minny. Six Wild players had two points on the night including the team's leading scorer Martin Hanzel (1-1-2) on the night. Steve Reinprecht (2-1-3) and Marco Sturm (0-3-3) led the Wings.

Edmonton (2) @ Nashville (1)

Yet another Western Conference battle saw the Oilers go into "Music City" and tune the Preds by a 2-1 score. Nashville took a 1-0 lead into the middle of the third on a first period goal by defenseman Kevin Bieksa but goals by Yannick Riendeau and Oilers scoring leader Ray Whitney on the powerplay with four and half minutes remaining, dashed any hopes of a home ice win. Tomas Vokoun stopped 20 of 21 shots, while Ray Emery took the loss stopping 18 of 20 shots for Nashville.

St.Louis (0) @ Anaheim (5)

Two teams at the opposite end of the standings met in "Disneyland" and the Blues must have thought they were an amusement ride (without the amusement) as the Ducks scored early and often in their 5-0 white-wash of the Blues. If it wasn't for Nik Backstrom's heroics in the Blues net the score could very well have been in the double digits as he stopped 39 of 44 shots. Four Ducks had two point nights leading the way was Ryan Malone (1-1-2). Tuuka Rask stopped 21 shots for his first shut-out of this early season for Anaheim.

Season 12 Power Rankings - 1st Edition

2011-01-02T18:57:00.004-05:00

The Wings are a bit embarrassed following the Canucks' 7th goal in last night's action

The first week of the season saw some huge blowouts with Pittsburgh embarrassing Florida 10-1, Calgary avenging an opening game loss to their provincial rivals in Edmonton with a 8-1 thrashing of the Oilers and in Vancouver, the Canucks crushed the Red Wings 7-1 on home ice. In all, teams managed to score 5 or more goals 32 times in the first 60 games of the season, and though it's incredibly early, San Jose's Eric Staal and Zach Parise are on pace for 180 points each. Is this the start of a new high-scoring era in the WCHL?

Here are the opening set of Power Rankings for Season 12:

1. San Jose
2. New Jersey
3. Pittsburgh
4. Philly
5. Vancouver
6. Anaheim
7. Tampa Bay
8. Colorado
9. Detroit
10. Montreal
11. Atlanta
12. New York Islands
13. New York Rangers
14. Boston
15. Buffalo
16. Minnesota
17. Dallas
18. Calgary
19. Ottawa
20. Chicago
21. Edmonton
22. LA
23. Carolina
24. Nashville
25. Columbus
26. Washington
27. Phoenix
28. Toronto
29. St Louis
30. Florida

Season 12 starts Sunday!

2010-12-22T23:00:00.002-05:00

Season 12 will begin on Boxing Day and all GMs are expected to get lines in to Trent before the season starts.

And here's to a happy and safe holiday for everyone in the WCHL. Enjoy!

Free Agent Contract Demands

2010-11-20T10:20:00.001-05:00

Click "read more" to see the contract demands of the UFAs.

FORWARDS

*Note* Any forward not listed below will sign for the top financial offer as determined by the Player Agent

Eric Belanger..PP and PK playing time and long term contract
Shawn Horcoff...PP and PK time, with highest money
Radim Vrbata...money
Dominic Moore...oney
Marian Hossa...term+dollar figures, with the better cup chance being the tiebreaker in the situation of multiple max offers

Cory Stillman...contender
Rob Niedermayer...contender
Todd White...top 6 minutes
Brendan Morrison...contender
Kristian Huselius...contender and long term contract
Steve Sullivan...top 6 minutes and short term for playoff team
Nik Antropov...money
Ian Laperriere...money
Sergei Fedorov...money
Mike Knuble...top line playing time and money
Todd Marchant...contender
Ethan Moreau...money
Todd Bertuzzi...money

DEFENSEMEN

Adrian Aucoin Playoff team, $
Aki Berg Chance at pro or Europe will treat him just fine
Alain Nasreddine Chance at pro or Europe will treat him just fine
Ales Pisa Europe...
Alex Henry A contract..ANY contract...More of a plead than a 'demand'
Alexander Karpovtsev Chance at pro or Europe will treat him just fine
Alexander Khavanov Top 9 D
Anders Eriksson Shot at pro time, $
Anders Myrvold European league....
Andrei Zyuzin Top 7 or bust (Europe)
Andy Roach A contract...ANY contract...More of a plead than a 'demand'
Aris Brimanis European league....
Brad Norton A contract... ANY contract... More of a plead than a 'demand'
Brendan Witt Playing time, $
Brooks Orpik Playoff contender, $
Bryan Berard $$$
Bryce Salvador Playing time, term
Chris Phillips Long term, stability, contender
Christian Backman Top 7 or bust (Europe)
Craig Rivet Playoff team, $
Dick Tarnstrom $$$
Dmitri Kalinin Stability, term, $
Duvie Westcott Shot at pro time, $
Eric Brewer $$$
Garrett Stafford Top 9 D
Greg deVries Long term, stability, contender
Greg Zanon Stability, term, $
Hal Gill Playoff team, $
Jamie Allison A contract...ANY contract...More of a plead than a 'demand'

Jamie Rivers Top 9 D
Jassen Cullimore Shot at pro time, $
Jiri Slegr Top 7 or bust (Europe)
Joel Kwiatkowski $$$
John Erskine Shot at pro time, $
Jonas Frogren Top 7 or bust (Europe)
Josef Boumedienne A contract. Any contract. More of a plead than a demand
Josef Melichar Top 7 or bust (Europe)
Karel Rachunek Playing time, term
Lubomir Sekeras Chance at pro or Europe will treat him just fine
Marek Malik Shot at pro time, $
Martin Skoula Playing time, term
Michal Rozsival Long term, $
Mike Mottau Stability, term, $
Niclas Havelid Contender, $
Ossi Vaananen Stability, term, $
Paul Mara Playing time, term
Petteri Nummelin Top 7 or bust (Europe)
Rick Berry A contract... ANY contract... More of a plead than a 'demand'
Rob Scuderi Long term, $
Robyn Regehr Long term, contender
Sheldon Souray Long term, $
Sven Butenschon A contract. ANY contract.. More of a plead than a 'demand'
Tom Preissing $$$
Toni Lydman Stability, term, $
Vladimir Chebaturkin European league....
Yannick Tremblay A contract. Any contract. More of a plead than a 'demand'
Zenith Komarniski A contract. Any contract. More of a plead than a demand

GOALIES

Alex Fomitchev Contract
Cristobal Huet $$$
David Aebischer Backup job
Evgeni Nabokov $$$, Playoff contender
Fredrik Norrena $/Europe
Jussi Markkanen Shot at pros, term
Martin Gerber Shot at pros, $
Marty Turco Contender, $
Ty Conklin Top 3

Top Ten Free Agents

2010-11-19T11:38:00.004-05:00

The ten-day Free Agency period begins on Saturday (here is the Free Agents List) and we're looking at some interesting names on the free agent market looking for the right fit with prospective teams. With the new RFA compensation system a number of RFAs who would never have been given offer sheets in prior year are now in play as well. Here's the top ten UFAs available in this year's free agency period.

1. Marian Hossa - Far and away the top player available in this year's free agency group, Hossa is coming off a WCHL Championship with the Calgary Flames, who simply couldn't afford his large salary. While he probably won't get max dollars now that the salary limit has been raised to a lofty $11.88 million/year, there's a good chance he'll be the highest earning player in the WCHL next season and perhaps years to come.

2. Kristian Huselius - Huselius might be a surprise pick at number 2 on this list, and perhaps it's a sign of the gap in quality between Hossa and the rest of the pack, but don't let his name fool you. He has the stuff to be a first line winger on the vast majority of teams in the league. His passing and puckhandling are excellent and his 16 points in 20 playoff games for the Rangers contributed significantly to the Rangers' playoff run. His previous salary of $2.75 million could be doubled this off-season.

3. Mike Knuble - The 38 year old former Penguin might not have a lot of gas left in the tank, but he'll easily be a top line option for a couple more seasons. Knuble was essentially the odd man out in Pittsburgh with Markov, Kane, Jackman, Brown, Ryan and Fleury all needing new contracts and like Huselius, he could be due for a huge raise from him $3 million salary he was previously earning. However, there are some big questions about his ability to come up big when needed as his Pens have always struggled at the end of the season. Was he the problem? We'll see.

4. Evgeni Nabokov - This guy spent the year living out of a suitcase jumping from Anaheim, to Minnesota and finally to Toronto, sliding down the ladder from a top team to one of the worst. He's not in the NHL anymore, but that doesn't mean he isn't extremely useful to a WCHL team looking for a high-end goalie. Currently a top-5 goalie in the league, his value over the next two seasons should be maintained, though any team that signs him long term takes on some risk. It wouldn't be far-fetched to see him take in $7 million+ on a 3 or 4 year deal, particularly for a team with a rather large hole to fill in net.

5. Sergei Fedorov - Fedorov isn't the guy he was ten years ago, but on a one year deal, he is definitely a guy any team looking for leadership and experience might want. In a free agent period devoid of strong centremen, he's perhaps the best option out there. Playing on the second line of a stacked Pittsburgh squad, he could easily fill a similar role or better on most teams in the league.

6. Chris Phillips - Considering Montreal's lack of depth on defense, it was a surprise that Phillips was not re-signed during the season. Perhaps he simply saw himself as the top defenseman up for grabs and the Habs simply couldn't meet his contract demands? If that is the case, he and his agent guessed correctly and he'll be in for a raise on his $4.25 million contract. While it might seem insane, supply and demand might dictate that Phillips is worth $6 million+ to a team this off-season.

7. Michal Rozsival - The first of two Islanders blueliners on this list, like Phillips it was a surprise Rozsival was not re-signed this off-season. Averaging almost 4 hits per game in the playoffs, he's bound to be an attractive addition to any team, and the competition for his services could be deep.

8. Robyn Regehr - The 30 year old Regehr is a stronger, less-skilled version of Rozsival. It wasn't too long ago that he was in the discussion as one of the top defenseman in the league, so his name alone might be enough to fetch a large contract. He should slot in on someone's second defensive pairing, though it also wouldn't surprise anyone to see him land on a weaker team in a quest for more ice time and a greater role.

9. Toni Lydman - The New York Rangers had no room for Lydman with a group of younger defensemen leap-frogging him on the depth chart. He is probably due for a raise from his previous $1.75 million salary but he should slide in to the 2-3 slot on someone's roster and would act as a great counter-balance to a run-and-gun defensive partner.

10. Brooks Orpik - The former Flyers defenseman who made $3.35 million/year in his last contract is coming off a rather disappointing playoffs but will probably be looking at more cash in his pocket this off-season. He brings a rough and tumble game and while he certainly won't lead any corps of defense in scoring, he'll be a stabilizing force in his own end. The big question is whether he can stay out of the penalty box, which he had trouble doing in the playoffs averaging almost 4 minutes per game.

Calgary Wins Season 11 WCHL Cup

2010-10-28T13:43:00.004-04:00

Calgary Flames fans take to the Red Mile to celebrate their first WCHL Championship

The Calgary Flames are season 11's champs after defeating the New York Rangers in a 4 game sweep. Losing only 4 games throughout the playoff drive, the Flames found little opposition that could counter their attack. Marian Gaborik and Patrik Elias were stellar throughout the playoffs putting up 27 points each. Gaborik has to be seen as the favourite for this year's Conn Smythe Award as he finished the playoffs with a 6-game goal scoring streak and a 7-game point streak. In between the pipes, Tim Thomas had a remarkably short leash throughout the playoffs but sported an 11-2-1 record including 3 shutouts. Rarely does a backup play better than a starter and not get the opportunity to take the reigns but that is exactly what happened as Jonas Hiller put up a 5-1 record, a 1.23 GAA and a .935 SV%. It will be interesting to see what happens going forward as Thomas still has $22.5million on his contract and Hiller has 2 more years on his contract.

The Flames' opponent in the finals was a New York Rangers squad that had to have expected to win at least a game in the finals, if not the whole thing. Tim Connolly was head and shoulders the best player on their roster putting up 8 more points than the next closest Ranger forward. Certainly the Rangers would have liked to have seen more scoring from Simon Gagne who only managed a single point (a goal) in the final 5 games of the playoffs and they would have expected Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist to play much better than the 4.25GAA and .847 SV% that he registered.

Can either of these teams make it back to this point? The Flames will be losing a key piece in their puzzle as Marian Hossa will not be resigned, though it looks like Dustin Byfuglien will be making the jump to replace him. In New York, two key names looks as though they are leaving: Kristian Huselius and Steve Sullivan. However, like Calgary, there are reinforcements ready to fill these holes with Tomas Fleischmann and Frans Nielsen expected to make the short move from Hartford to Manhattan. As we saw this year, it is extremely tough to make it back to the finals and both teams will have their work cut out for them as a number of teams that made early exits this year will be hungry for the cup next season.

3rd Round WCHL Playoff Preview

2010-10-24T11:48:00.005-04:00

The finals in each conference are set and in both we find teams that have been on the cusp of success in the past and teams that have been Cinderella stories so far. With the number of upsets we've seen so far, it's anyone's guess who will win advance to the Finals, but one thing is for certain: We will have a first-time winner of the WCHL Cup this season.

Calgary - Vancouver
Season Series: Tied 1-1 (6-5)

Calgary (2nd – 102 points)
Beat LA 4-2 and Colorado 4-1
Leading Scorer: Patrik Elias - 7-9-16
Goaltending: Tim Thomas – 5-1-1 2.22, 0.900
Special Teams: PP-21.43% (3rd), PK-79.63% (12th)
Vancouver (6th – 95 points)
Beat Dallas 4-3 and Anaheim 4-0
Leading Scorer: Valtteri Filppula – 4-7-11
Goaltending: Miikka Kiprusoff – 8-3-1, 2.02, 0.931
Special Teams: PP-12.24% (10th), PK-93.18% (3rd)

The Vancouver Canucks were the heavy underdogs going into their series against the Ducks but came out guns ablazin' and knocked out the defending champs with ease. They've now taken down the 3rd and 1st seeds in successive rounds and will now look to complete the trifecta. Third liner Valtteri Filppula is turning into a local folk hero and many kids around town are bleaching their hair to show their support for the Finn. Questions still abound about the play of Pavel Datsyuk who has been rather silent thus far with only 5 points in 12 games. He'll need to come up big in this series. Their opponent has looked extremely focused on getting to the finals and won't be easy to pushover. The Flames have had one of the most interesting goalie situations of these playoffs as Tim Thomas has started every game but has also been pulled 4 times (3 in the last series). The short leash is causing some pundits to question how much faith the team has in their unorthodox netminder and it'll be intriguing to see if this idea of Hiller as a "closer" will become a new fad in the league should the Flames continue their success. Up front, the line of Hossa, Richards and Elias have been dominant so far and will be leaned on to produce even more in this series. The other interesting point is that this is the first time that the winner of this matchup will be the first Canadian team to make the finals since the Leafs did it in the early days of the league.

Prediction: The Canucks get burned by the Flames in 6.

New York Rangers – Buffalo
Season Series: Rangers 3-1 (9-7)

New York Rangers (3rd – 117 points)
Beat NYI 4-1 and NJ 4-3
Leading Scorer: Tim Connolly – 6-8-14
Goaltending: Henrik Lundqvist – 9-3-1, 1.89, 0.916
Special Teams: PP-19.57% (4th), PK-97.67% (1st)
Buffalo (7th – 106 points)
Beat Pittsburgh 4-2 and Philly 4-3
Leading Scorer: Tobias Enstrom - 2-11-13
Goaltending: Jimmy Howard – 8-7-0, 2.38, 0.901
Special Teams: PP-9.84% (12th), PK-80.60% (10th)

The Battle of the Empire State features two clubs that almost didn't make it to this point. Buffalo was all but done, down 3-1 against a stronger Philly club but managed to pull off one of the greatest comebacks in WCHL history. Jamie Langenbrunner's late 3rd period goal in game 7 gave the team a 4-3 victory in a 4-3 series and now this team that no one thought would make it out of the 1st round finds themselves only a few games from a final. Buffalo's strength has been it's 5-on-5 play as it goes into this series with the worst special teams of the remaining clubs. The big question is how long can this club continue its poor special teams play and expect to win? Their opponent struggled against the far weaker New Jersey Devils and nearly blew a 3-1 lead to get to this point. Tim Connolly and Scott Niedermayer have been leading this team throughout the playoffs but GM Andrew DOn will certainly be looking for Kopitar, Gagne and Doan to have a strong series. The season series would suggest that the Rangers have an advantage in this one, but two of those wins came in OT/SO and you have to wonder if momentum is going to be a key factor here.

Prediction: Sabres can't stand the big city pressure in New York and falter to the Rangers in 5.

The King is Dead: Canucks sweep the Ducks

2010-10-17T11:23:00.003-04:00

In what surely will go down as one of the biggest surprises of this WCHL season, the Vancouver Canucks absolutely had their way with the defending champion Anaheim Ducks in 4 games. It wasn't just that this was an upset, or a sweep, it was how soundly the Ducks were beaten. After a close game one, the Ducks folded like a cheap suit in game two's 5-1 loss. The Canucks then went home with a surprising 2-0 lead and were fired up going into game three. On the other hand Anaheim seemed deflated and put up a lackluster performance. The result was the most lopsided game of these playoffs: a 7-0 drubbing. Then last night down 2-0 going into the 3rd, the Ducks finally showed a bit of life, scoring two goals in the first 7 minutes. It wasn't enough though. Daniel Alfredsson would pot the winner 40 seconds into OT to give the Canucks a TKO.

This has to be seen as a disappointment for everyone in Anaheim. The defending champs didn't show much desire to win throughout this playoffs and one has to wonder if Coach Pete DeBoer or GM Watt will take responsibility for this one.

The Canucks will now await the winner of the Calgary-Colorado series which sits at 3-1 for Calgary.

2nd Round WCHL Playoff Preview

2010-10-13T12:34:00.005-04:00

The first round saw 3 lower seeds advance with a chance to follow in the Bruins Season 10 footsteps as a Cinderella team. The Ducks and Rangers are the clear cut favourites to meet in the finals if only they aren't lulled to sleep by weak opponents in this round. Here is the preview of all four WCHL playoff series.

Anaheim - Vancouver
Season Series: Vancouver 3-2 (10-9)

Anaheim (1st – 116 points)
Beat Edmonton 4-0
Leading Scorer: Ilya Kovalchuk – 5-3-8
Goaltending: Steve Mason – 4-0, 2.44, 0.875
Special Teams: PP-25.00% (3rd), PK-68.42% (16th)
Vancouver (6th – 95 points)
Beat Dallas 4-3
Leading Scorer: Radek Dvorak – 0-7-7
Goaltending: Miikka Kiprusoff – 4-2-1, 2.31, 0.924
Special Teams: PP-13.64% (10th), PK-93.10% (3rd)

The Canucks knocked off one of the hottest teams in the league (Dallas) to get to the second round and will be looking to keep the momentum going against the top team in the West. Radek Dvorak was a man possessed by the ghost of Adam Oates as he set up 7 goals in the first round. The Canucks can also feel good knowing that they took the season series against the Ducks and have to feel good about their chances. This might be one of the first times ever that we can say that a team that swept their first round opponent is struggling. The Ducks were taken to OT 3 times against a comparatively mediocre Oilers squad, and their PK was abysmal (worst of all teams in the 1st round) against the team with the worst PP in the regular season. The Kovalchuk-Nash-Crosby line carried the team through that series and will need to continue their pace otherwise the Canucks could be in line for a second upset.
Prediction: The quack attack gets sacked – Canucks in 6

Calgary - Colorado
Season Series: Calgary 4-1 (22-8)

Calgary (2nd – 102 points)
Beat LA 4-1
Leading Scorer: Mike Richards and Patrik Elias – 4-4-8
Goaltending: Tim Thomas – 3-0-1, 1.49, 0.927
Special Teams: PP-22.22% (4th), PK-83.33% (8th)
Colorado (4th – 102 points)
Beat San Jose 4-2
Leading Scorer: Doug Weight 5-5-10
Goaltending: Ilya Bryzgalov – 3-2-0, 3.77, 0.865
Special Teams: PP-29.73% (2nd), PK-91.30% (4th)

These two clubs might have tied for first in the Norris Division but looking at the season series, it would be difficult to suggest that Colorado has a chance against the Flames. The Flames simply had their way with the Avs this year including 8-2 and 6-1 drubbings. However, the Avs knocked off the always strong San Jose Sharks, winning three straight to finish off the series. They’re going to need Bryzgalov to turn things around as his GAA and SV% were horrendous and can’t continue against the high-octane offence the Flames can throw at them. The other big question is whether Doug Weight can continue his 1st round turn-back-the-clock performance? For the Flames, Tim Thomas has been nothing but stellar allowing only 7 goals in 5 games including 2 shutouts. Although Richards, Elias and Hossa had great 1st rounds, Steven Stamkos was unable to find the back of the net and I’m sure GM Allen would like to see him turn his game around in this series.
Prediction: Flames melt away the Avalanche in 5

New York Rangers – New Jersey
Season Series: Tied 2-2 (16-12)

New York Rangers (3rd – 117 points)
Beat NYI 4-1
Leading Scorer: Tim Connolly – 1-5-6
Goaltending: Henrik Lundqvist – 4-1-0, 2.12, 0.897
Special Teams: PP-17.65% (7th), PK-100% (1st)
New Jersey (8th – 95 points)
Beat Pittsburgh 4-2
Leading Scorer: Ryan Suter 1-4-5 Bryan McCabe 0-5-5
Goaltending: Dwayne Roloson – 4-2-0, 1.77, 0.914
Special Teams: PP-10.00% (12th), PK-88.00% (6th)

So I said two things last round about New Jesey’s series with Pittsburgh: It would be ugly, and the Devils would need Roloson to come up big. Both happened, only the ugliness was on the part of the Pens’ play and not New Jersey’s. The Devils have to be riding a high after knocking off the top team in the league and now they get a chance to knock off #2. They’re going to need more production from the forwards to have a chance since it’d be difficult to lean on Suter and McCabe to provide the offense. They also need Antropov to improve upon his 1 point first round. The Rangers will be looking to steamroll another local rival. The Islanders didn’t put up the fight that we all expected and now one has to wonder if the Rangers will be at risk of looking beyond the Devils to the conference finals. If not you have to think this Rangers team is the favourite to come out of the East.
Prediction: The Rangers end Cinderella’s ball early – Rangers in 5.

Philadelphia - Buffalo
Season Series: Philadelphia 3-1 (13-8)

Philadelphia (4th – 111 points)
Beat Boston 4-1
Leading Scorer: Ryan Getzlaf – 2-4-6
Goaltending: Niklas Backstrom – 4-1-0, 1.89, 0.913
Special Teams: PP-20.00% (5th), PK-82.61% (9th)
Buffalo (7th – 106 points)
Beat Atlanta 4-3
Leading Scorer: James Langenbrunner – 2-3-5, Tobias Enstrom – 1-4-5
Goaltending: Jimmy Howard – 4-3-0, 2.00, 0.916
Special Teams: PP-4.76% (15th), PK-80.65% (11th)

If you just looked at the seeds then the Sabres win over Atlanta was a big upset, however, as we pointed out in the 1st round preview, there wasn’t much to distinguish the two teams and we suspected it would be a close series. The Sabres made it much closer than it should have been though by blowing a 3-0 lead and nearly losing in game 7. The Sabres need to make some adjustments to keep pace with a Flyers team that is much better than the Atlanta team they faced. Their special teams were atrocious and by far the worst of the remaining teams and they’ll need every player to contribute to keep pace. The Flyers will be looking to continue their strong play from the first round that provided them with a break while they waited for the Sabres to finish their series. They got strong goaltending from Backstrom but Jeff Carter and Mike Green were snake-bitten only scoring once on 31 shots between them. On paper the Flyers are just too strong with too many weapons to be considered as an upset candidate so it wouldn’t be a surprise for this to end early.
Prediction: The drought in Western New York continues as the Flyers take it in 5.

Playoff Recap - 2nd Edition

2010-10-12T09:57:00.003-04:00

Only two series will go to 7 games in this first round of the WCHL playoffs. We've already seen one huge upset in the East and we're looking at a second one if the Sabres don't blow a 3-1 lead.

But first, the big news in the East is the fall of the Presidents Trophy winning Pittsburgh Penguins. This is the second year in a row that the top regular season team has been knocked out in the first round. When everyone though the Pens had too much firepower to lose this one, their crop of highly-skilled forwards didn't show up, only out-shooting the Devils in 1 of the 6 games. It'll be interesting to see what happens this off-season to the Pens as they've had to make some tough choices regarding contracts, and GM Matthews can't be pleased with the play of some of his players (namely the pointless Dustin Brown).

In what shouldn't be a surprise to many people, the battle of New York went to the Manhattan club with the Rangers winning soundly in 5. The Islanders really couldn't get anything going throughout the series and their only real show of life was a 4 goal second period in game 4 when their backs were up against the wall. NYI's Corey Perry and Bran Richard have been lambasted in the media for their performances and are shouldering some of the blame for the quick exit. On the other hand, the Rangers saw all but one player get a point in the series.

The other completed series in the East saw the Flyers cruise to a 5 game win over the Boston Bruins. Many people are blaming the "Cory Sarich incident" from game 1 for creating a distraction within the Bruins dressing room, but ultimately the series was much closer than it appeared with every game seeing balanced play and close scores. Philly will need to be in a New York State of Mind for the next series as they'll take on either the Rangers or the Sabres.

In the West, the Ducks became the first team to advance to the 2nd round with a sweep of the Oilers. The series was much tougher than it appeared on paper with Anaheim needing OT in 3 games to take the series. The Kovy-Nash-Crosby line was just too much for the Oilers as Kovy and Nash put up 8 points and all three were +9.

Second seeded Calgary knocked out the Kings in 5 dominating much of the series. The series started off looking like it could be tight but the Kings had trouble scoring only putting 1 goal by Tim Thomas in their final three losses. The Flames are looking like early favourites to advance to the West final as they've dominated both of their potential Round 2 opponents this season (vs. Colorado: 4-1, Dallas 3-0).

The other completed series in the West saw the Avs take three in a row to close out the series in 6 over the Sharks. The highlight of the series was a 7-6 OT win for Colorado in game 5, which saw the Sharks needing to come from behind and score a last seconds goal to tie the game, only to lose it on a Loui Eriksson goal. Eriksson would be the game 6 hero as well, scoring the game winner. The other surprise is the Avs' Doug Weight leads all playoff scorers with 10 points.

Playoff Recap - 1st Edition

2010-10-08T13:05:00.005-04:00

The story in the first two nights of the WCHL playoffs has been the number of overtime games that have taken place. 7 of the 16 games needed extra time to be decided and if this continues throughout the playoffs then cardiac wards across the continent should be seeing an upswing in fans needing assistance.

In the West, in what everyone thought would be a blowout type of series, we've seen Anaheim and Edmonton go to back-to-back OTs. Both have been settled quickly with game 1 hero Ilya Kovalchuk scoring 8 seconds in and game 2 hero Rick Nash scoring with 19:42 still on the clock. It's hard to tell who has the momentum heading back to Edmonton as the Oilers must be happy with how they've played but unhappy with the results, and Anaheim vice versa.

The Calgary-LA series started off tight with Calgary winning a double OT off the stick of Patrick Elias. People expecting a similar type of game in game 2 were left highly disappointed as the Flames put 42 shots on net on route to a 7-1 thrashing. The Kings will need a return to their game 1 form if they have any chance of getting back into this series.

The Dallas Stars are up 2-0 on the Canucks and have outplayed their opponents soundly in both games. The Canucks took game 2 to OT but the heavily leaned upon Mike Commodore came up big with a winner 8 minutes in. The Canucks' Pavel Datsyuk has been held off of the score sheet and was -2 in last night's game causing the phone lines at the local radio stations to light up this morning calling for him to step up big in game 3.

The Sharks and Avs series is the only one tied at 1 after two games. Colorado struggled from the gate in game one and found themselves down 3-1 going into the 3rd when Zach Parise made it 4-1. A goal by Brayden Coburn brought them back to within 2 and the team started peppering Sharks goalie Cam Ward (who faced 20 shots in the 3rd). Unfortunately this push made for some risky plays and Kyle Okposo took advantage of it with a SH goal to put the win away. Game 2 was all Colorado, as they used that 3rd period in game 1 as momentum to put 5 by Cam Ward. Mike Cammalleri's 3 assists led the way. The series now shifts to San Jose.

Over in the East, New Jersey stunned the Penguins with a 1-0 win in OT in game 1. The goaltending duel was ended by Chris Kunitz and as was pointed out in the preview to this series, the Devils got a game stealing performance from Dwayne Roloson. The Pens then got back on form in game 2 using a 3 point night by Bobby Ryan to propel them to a 4-2 victory. The Devils have to feel good about going back home with a tied series and home ice advantage.

Atlanta has looked horrible since being shell-shocked by the Sabres 3 unanswered first period goals in game 1. The Sabres nearly doubled the Thrashers' shot total and Chad Larose was the unlikely hero with 2 key goals. One would have thought that the Thrashers would come out revved up after the poor showing in game 1 on home ice, but that wasn't the case. Buffalo outshot the home team 9-2 and took a 2-0 lead on two goals by Jamie Langenbrunner. Langenbrunner would later set up Pavelski to make the final 3-0, giving the Sabres a 2-0 lead heading back to home ice.

The Battle of New York has been one sided everywhere but on the score sheet. The Rangers have taken it to the Islanders outshooting them 68-32 in the first two games, but both games were only settled by 1 goal. However, both games were marred by bad reffing with the Islanders not receiving a PP in game 1 and the Rangers not receiving a single PP in game 2. With the Rangers up 2-0 heading to Nassau County, it looks like the Islanders will need to pull out all of the stops to slow down their opponent.

Finally, the Flyers are up 2-0 on two big wins where they outplayed their opponents but could only outscore them by a single goal in each game. The big story in game 1 was the actions of Boston's Cory Sarich which resulted in his ejection. Sarich took a hit from Flyer Stephane Yelle and apparently didn't like it. Unfortunately despite there being 10 cameras in the arena televising the game, cameras didn't catch what happened next, but the ref sure saw it, resulting in a 5 minute major and 10 minute misconduct. In a bit of irony, Yelle would go on to score the winning goal in the final minute of the game as Sarich watched from from the dressing room. Cooler heads would prevail in game 2, but that didn't change the outcome as the Bruins head home looking for answers.

WCHL News

2010-10-05T11:50:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone,
I'd like to direct your attention to the message board for the latest WCHL News bulletin. The release can be found here:
http://wchlforum.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=leaguea&action=display&thread=3124
If you can't access the message board, because I was told at least one GM has difficulties with this, please let me know and I can e-mail you a copy of what is posted.
Trent Allen
WCHL Commissioner

Eastern Conference Round One Preview

2010-10-05T11:33:00.005-04:00

It's almost unfair that 4 of these teams will be eliminated so soon. The quality in the Eastern Conference is as good as ever and it'll take a team at the top of their game to make it through this bracket. There are a number of teams that have been on the precipice of success and are looking to take that step towards a WCHL championship.

Pittsburgh – New Jersey

Season Series: Pittsburgh 4-0 (21-5)

Pittsburgh (1st – 124 points)

Leading Scorer: Alex Semin – 39-42-81

Goaltending: Marc-Andre Fleury – 57-14-2, 2.51, 0.899

Special Teams: PP-23.72% (1st), PK-82.67% (16^th)

New Jersey (8th – 95 points)

Leading Scorer: Vincent Lecavalier – 31-39-70

Goaltending: Dwayne Roloson – 36-21-9, 2.59, 0.886

Special Teams: PP-16.16% (10^th), PK-82.48% (17th)

This has the makings for an ugly series. Pittsburgh has been phenomenal this season finishing atop the final two Power Rankings, scoring more goals than any other team and dominating on a power play whose closest competitor was 3% behind. They’re the hottest team coming into the playoffs (9 game win streak) and this team is deep and talented with a coach in Babcock that knows how to win. They also had their way with the Devils this year including wins of 5-1, 6-1 and 7-1. The Devils went to the Conference finals last year and the long playoff run seemed to cause a bit of a hangover as they drop to an 8^th seed this year. It’s a good team in a great conference but the quality of their depth just can’t match the Pens this season. They’re going to need Roloson to come up huge and steal the series for them to have any chance of moving into the 2^nd round.

Prediction: The march of the Penguins starts here. Pens in 5

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Atlanta – Buffalo

Season Series: Tied 1-1 (3-4)

Atlanta (2nd – 108 points)

Leading Scorer: Henrik Sedin – 26-44-70

Goaltending: Martin Brodeur – 49-23-10, 2.38, 0.893

Special Teams: PP-17.39% (15th), PK-84.29% (9^th)

Buffalo (7th – 106 points)

Leading Scorer: Joe Pavelski – 29-34-63

Goaltending: Jimmy Howard – 33-21-4, 2.26, 0.902

Special Teams: PP-15.94% (10^th), PK-87.50% (1st)

Only two points separated these two clubs in the regular season, yet these teams find themselves in the 2-7 matchup. There really isn’t a lot between these two clubs especially when you consider that Atlanta was able to take advantage of playing in the weakest division in the league. The Thrashers will depend on the Sedin twins and Martin St Louis to lead the way and they’ll be looking to take advantage of the lack of experience in Buffalo’s net in Jimmy Howard. In Buffalo, there is a scoring by committee approach and they’ll need everyone to continue their “defence-first” mindset that lead them to the least goals against in the league. Like previous Sabres squads they’ll need a hero to put them over the top. The only question is, who will be this year’s “May Day”?

Prediction – They’ll be doing the “Sedin Cycle” in the clubs in Hotlanta once this one is over in 6.

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New York Rangers – New York Islanders

Season Series: Tied 2-2 (10-8)

Rangers (3rd – 117 points)

Leading Scorer: Simon Gagne – 33-38-71

Goaltending: Henrik Lundqvist – 55-21-4, 2.55, 0.890

Special Teams: PP-18.98% (8th), PK-83.33% (14^th)

Islanders (6th – 107 points)

Leading Scorer: Nicklas Backstrom – 30-34-64

Goaltending: Carey Price – 29-15-5, 2.50, 0.890

Special Teams: PP-19.89% (4^th), PK-83.57% (11th)

It seems goalie controversies are synonymous with Carey Price. Kari Lehtonen has outplayed Price this season with a better win%, better GAA, a better sv% and twice as many shutouts in 15 less games. The media in New York has gone crazy trying to figure out what Kari needs to do to secure the spot over Price, and it’ll be fascinating to see just how short Price’s leash might be. One thing is for certain; they’re in tough in this series against their local rivals from Manhattan. The second best team in the league is also the second hottest heading into the playoffs. In what will be Scott Niedermayer’s swan song, they’ll be looking to avenge their 1^st round upset of last season when they were the President’s Trophy winners. Another early exit and we could be pinning the “chocker” label on this club, and so the pressure will be on in that media hotbed of New York City.

Prediction: Like Yogi Bear, the Islanders will be stealing this one from under the Rangers nose in 6.

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Philadelphia – Boston

Season Series: Philadelphia 3-1 (11-8)

Philadelphia (4th – 111 points)

Leading Scorer: Jeff Carter – 44-45-89

Goaltending: Niklas Backstrom – 49-21-6, 2.20, 0.903

Special Teams: PP-19.78% (6th), PK-87.33% (2nd)

Boston (5th – 109 points)

Leading Scorer: Mark Recchi – 29-36-65

Goaltending: Craig Anderson – 50-24-7, 2.25, 0.902

Special Teams: PP-17.37% (16^th), PK-86.25% (4th)

Last year’s WCHL finalists surprised everyone as the 8^th seed, knocking off the top two seeds in successive rounds but falling short. This year, they hope to repeat that success but the road back to the final goes through Philly. Philly’s special teams is tops in the league and the 1-2 punch of Carter and Getzlaf puts the Flyers in a position to score at any time. That’s not to say goals will just come from down the middle on this club. A defence that includes Mike Green, Sheldon Souray and Dan Boyle is extremely potent and will force the Bruins to make tough decisions about defensive zone strategy. Bean Town’s Mark Recchi has a resurgence this year as a 41 year-old, but you have to wonder if at this point he’s running out of gas? A number of players on this Bruins team are on the down slope of their careers and this could be Boston’s last kick at the can in a tough conference.

Predictions: Flyers soar passed the Bruins and take it in 5.

Western Conference Round One Preview

2010-10-04T16:56:00.004-04:00

Round One of the WCHL Season 11 Playoffs features some intriguing matchups in the Western Conference. The WCHL defending champs are looking at an easy start while some intriguing rematches from last year's playoffs means some renewed rivalries and bad blood could be in store.

Anaheim – Edmonton

Season Series: Tied 1-1 (8-6)

Anaheim (1st – 116 points)

Leading Scorer: Rick Nash – 39-51-90

Goaltending: Steve Mason – 54-21-6, 2.26, 0.901

Special Teams: PP-20.23% (3^rd), PK-82.19% (18^th)

Edmonton (8th – 88 points)

Leading Scorer: Rod Brind’Amour – 21-39-60

Goaltending: Tomas Vokoun – 44-28-8, 2.43, 0.898

Special Teams: PP-11.63% (30^th), PK-81.60% (22^nd)

The defending champs in Anaheim have been a juggernaut this season leading the WCHL Power Rankings in 2 of the 7 editions. Few teams have the ability to match the line of Kovalchuk-Crosby-Nash or a top pairing of Weber and Keith. The Ducks can roll 4 lines and 3 D pairings without losing a step and it would be safe to say that the Oilers’s top D-man (Paul Mara) probably wouldn’t even crack this lineup. On the other side, the Oilers were one of the hottest teams after the halfway mark but struggled in their final 10 games and having to depend on a Hawks loss in the final game of the season to claim the 8^th spot. The team’s PP is last by a significant margin and it’s hard to imagine how this team will score some goals unless Rod Brindamour (who will be retiring after this playoff) carries the squad on his back.

Prediction: Unlike in the BP oil spill, the Ducks are going to survive Oil Country with ease, 4-0.

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Calgary – Los Angeles

Season Series: Calgary 2-0 (7-4)

Calgary (2^nd – 102 points)

Leading Scorer: Mike Richards – 34-52-86

Goaltending: Tim Thomas – 30-27-1, 2.59, 0.894

Special Teams: PP-16.76% (17th), PK-85.22% (6^th)

Los Angeles (7^th – 91 points)

Leading Scorer: Evgeni Malkin – 39-56-95

Goaltending: Ryan Miller – 42-33-6, 2.65, 0.892

Special Teams: PP-20.57% (2nd), PK-83.44% (12th)

In a rematch of last year’s first round, this 2-7 battle might be the most likely candidate for an upset on this side of the bracket. The Flames are stacked up front with two formidable scoring lines featuring a who’s who of top forwards in the league, However the Kings top 4 D of Pronger, Bouwmeester, Campbell and Liles might be unmatchable. The Kings also have the 2^nd best PP and the leading scoring in the league in Geno Malkin, a player capable of winning games on his own. In net, the Kings have an edge in Ryan Miller over Tim Thomas (who was brought in near the deadline). It seems this one might come down to the age-old argument of which leads to a championship: putting pucks in the net, or keeping them out.

Prediction: Ask the French - thrones burn. The Kings turn to ash in 7.

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Dallas – Vancouver

Season Series: Vancouver 3-1 (10-8)

Dallas (3^rd – 105 points)

Leading Scorer: David Krejci – 27-44-71

Goaltending: Roberto Luongo – 48-26-6, 2.16, 0.904

Special Teams: PP-14.16% (27th), PK-84.84% (7^th)

Vancouver (6^th – 95 points)

Leading Scorer: Pavel Datsyuk – 31-39-70

Goaltending: Miikka Kiprusoff – 42-29-8, 2.55, 0.893

Special Teams: PP-20.57% (2nd), PK-83.44% (12th)

Back in mid-July, Dallas and Vancouver made a deal which saw David Krejci move from the Canucks to Dallas and go on to collect 31 points in 37 games. The question is whether this deal will come back to haunt the Canucks? The Stars sat out of a playoff spot midway through the season but went on winning streaks of 10 and 7 games on route to finishing the season with 23 wins in 32 games. They’ll need Krejci to continue his hot play, but also they’ll need an unusually quiet Alex Ovechkin to step it up after a sub-par 68 point regular season. In net, Luongo has been the top goalie in the league this season and could steal a game or two on his own. The Canucks have had a bit of an identity crisis this year with many trades creating a bit of a revolving door in the roster. They’ll need very strong performances from Kipper and top line of Ponikarovsky-Datsyuk-Alfredsson or else they really have no chance, particularly with a defence that Ovechkin can turn inside-out on a bad day.

Prediction: LOUUUUUUUU and the Stars shine in 5 games

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Colorado – San Jose

Season Series: Colorado 3-0 (12-5)

Colorado (4th – 102 points)

Leading Scorer: Patrick Sharp – 35-38-73

Goaltending: Ilya Bryzgalov – 48-27-4, 2.75, 0.881

Special Teams: PP-19.25% (7th), PK-86.42% (3rd)

San Jose (5^th – 99 points)

Leading Scorer: Eric Staal – 41-43-84

Goaltending: Cam Ward – 41-26-9, 2.81, 0.880

Special Teams: PP-18.87% (9th), PK-79.34% (27th)

If “names” won games then San Jose would take this in a walk. The Avs turn back the clock with former greats like Forsberg and Jagr, but depend highly on fresh faces like Derek Roy, Patrick Sharp, Michael Cammalleri and Loui Eriksson. Lidstrom is about as close to star power as the Avs have but they’re able to role four hard working lines that weaker opponents can’t compete with. The Sharks on the other hand have some of the biggest names in the game with Staal (two of them), Heatley, Parise, Toews and a workhorse d-man in Chara that might be the league’s only match for the Avs’ Lidstrom. This is a hard matchup to predict - The Avs dominated the season series against the Sharks’ high-octane offence yet when one looks at the Avs’ season they were blown out more times than any other team of their stature.

Prediction: In an identical result as last year’s 2^nd round matchup between these two clubs, the Avalanche melt when the Sharks attack and lose in 6.

Trade Deadline

2010-09-18T19:02:00.003-04:00

The trading deadline is on September 21st at Midnight (EST). All deals must be posted and accepted by both GMs before the deadline for the trade to be valid.

Season 11 Power Rankings - 7th Edition

2010-09-18T18:56:00.005-04:00

With the trade deadline days away, this Power Ranking is a reflection of the teams making a big move for the playoffs. Pittsburgh maintains its top spot and some familiar names sit close to the top. The race in the West is heating up and based on these rankings it looks like Chicago and Edmonton might be in the drivers seat. This is the final Power Ranking of the regular season and the next Power Ranking will be a playoff preview.

Rank Previous Team
1 1 Pittsburgh
2 6 Anaheim
3 9 Calgary
4 16 NYI
5 8 Atlanta
6 5 NYR
7 7 Dallas
8 2 Boston
9 4 Colorado
10 12 Buffalo
11 3 Philly
12 14 New Jersey
13 18 Chicago
14 11 Edmonton
15 10 San Jose
16 27 Toronto
17 13 Vancouver
18 15 Montreal
19 19 Los Angeles
20 21 Florida
21 20 Columbus
22 24 Nashville
23 26 Tampa bay
24 28 Minnesota
25 17 Washington
26 22 Carolina
27 29 Detroit
28 23 Phoenix
29 30 St. Louis
30 25 Ottawa

Top teams:
Week 1 - Anaheim
Week 2 - Calgary
Week 3 - Anaheim
Week 4 - Atlanta
Week 5 - Philly
Week 6 - Pittsburgh
Week 7 - Pittsburgh

WCHL News: Results of Rules Voting

2010-09-11T12:55:00.002-04:00

The results of the rules voting is completed, and is now posted on the message board. Please follow this link to see the results: http://wchlforum.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=leagued&thread=3088

Any comments, please post them on the forum.

Season 11 Power Rankings - 6th Edition

2010-09-04T15:25:00.011-04:00

The 6th Edition of Season 11's Power Rankings sees another team from Pennsylvania at the top and some other teams who are coming on strong with final pushes just in time for the playoff race. With the trade deadline around the corner, the big swings in the power rankings might force some GMs to give a second thought about whether they're buyers or sellers over the next few weeks.

Top teams:

Week 1 - Anaheim
Week 2 - Calgary
Week 3 - Anaheim
Week 4 - Atlanta
Week 5 - Philly
Week 6 - Pittsburgh

Rank	Previous Rank	Team
1	3	Pittsburgh
2	6	Boston
3	1	Philly
4	12	Colorado
5	7	NYR
6	2	Anaheim
7	17	Dallas
8	4	Atlanta
9	16	Calgary
10	5	San Jose
11	20	Edmonton
12	9	Buffalo
13	10	Vancouver
14	14	New Jersey
15	23	Montreal
16	11	NYI
17	13	Washington
18	21	Chicago
19	8	Los Angeles
20	15	Columbus
21	22	Florida
22	19	Carolina
23	24	Phoenix
24	28	Nashville
25	29	Ottawa
26	18	Tampa bay
27	25	Toronto
28	26	Minnesota
29	27	Detroit
30	30	St. Louis

Welcome to the new WCHL website!

2010-08-24T15:06:00.005-04:00

Welcome to the new home of the WCHL.

It's still a work in progress and we will hopefully be adding new elements in the offseason as well as updating some areas of the site, such as the Rules section and the GM Bios. This new site will be a lot easier to manage, update and add content to as well as allow you to comment on news and updates. Furthermore, everything posted to the site will be archived, so you can go back and look at old news, power rankings, etc. We can also categorize all the news as well. Both of these features can be found on the right sidebar. The site is also RSS and Atom compliant so if you use those you'll be able to get instant updates when the site gets updated. Overall, it'll be a huge improvement over the makeshift site we had before.

Currently the website will redirect from the www.wchlhockey.com address to this blogspot one. We're sorting out how to make this site use the old address, but in the meantime we hope you're not too annoyed by the quick redirect. The site also might not work for you if you use Internet Explorer 6.0 or older. The newest version of Explorer (as well as many other popular browsers) works perfectly with the site though.

Also if you find anything that needs fixing or have any ideas for the site please let me know. If you want to help by writing articles, doing GM interviews or in any way that you'd like to contribute feel free to do so by getting in touch with Jim or Trent. Every little bit helps.

Enjoy!