Seattle Kraken Mock Expansion Draft

Wednesday is when the hockey world will know who will make up the first ever roster for the Seattle Kraken (am I just going to copy-paste what I wrote four years ago? Maybe). Since here is less than 24 hours left, I figured that I might as well do up an expansion draft as well. I'm not going to do what I did last time and draft two rosters (one I though who would be pick, and the other being who I'd want them to), instead I'm going to impose a few rules. Besides the basics such as position and salary, there are a few guidelines I'm drafting by:

•  One this is that I'm trying to keep the cap as low as possible. I ended up higher than I wanted to, but left a sizeable enough room for them to operate afterwards.
• No currently-impending UFAs. RFAs are okay as they still retained the rights. I get that they would have a week to negotiate a contract, but given some of the bigger fish are looking to go to free agency I'm going under the assumption they won't be signed.

Once again using CapFriendly's expansion draft tool, here is who I think Seattle will take, going team-by-team:

Anaheim Ducks

Who I think Seattle picks: Alexander Volkov (LW) - $700,000

Reason: Haydn Fleury seems like a popular pick, and I sort of agree. However the Ducks were one of the last teams I picked from and needed to reach the forward minimum. Volkov has another year under contract and is an RFA after. At worst he's minor-league depth (which every team needs).

Other Considerations: Haydn Fleury (D)

 

Arizona Coyotes

Who I think Seattle picks: Christian Fischer (RW) - $1,000,000

Reason: Given my restrictions this was one of the harder teams to choose from, as a lot of options were UFAs this year. RFA's didn't seem as appealing, so Fischer gets it almost by default.

Other Considerations: Michael Bunting (LW)*

 

Boston Bruins

Who I think Seattle picks: Ondrej Kase (RW) - $2,600,000

Reason: Kase would be in interesting pick. Has potential as he's still relatively young at 25. The oft-injured winger could bounce back and proved a boost to the Kraken's offense.

Other Considerations: Nick Ritchie (LW), Mike Reilly (D)*

 

Buffalo Sabres

Who I think Seattle picks: Colin Miller (D) - $3,875,000

Reason: Unfortunately passing isn't an option. Zemgus Girgensons was my initial pick, but then I remembered Miller was picked by Vegas and thought it would be cool to have one guy that got picked by both recent expansion teams.

Other Considerations: Zemgus Girgensons (C)

 

Calgary Flames

Who I think Seattle picks: Mark Giordano (D) - $6,750,000

Reason: One of the big fish available that I think Seattle will go for. He's still productive at 37 and only has a year left, so if he doesn't work out it's not going to hamper Seattle long-term. So say hello to your new captain Seattle.

Other Considerations: Matthew Phillips (C), Oliver Kylington (D)

 

Carolina Hurricanes

Who I think Seattle picks: Jake Bean (D) - $863,333

Reason:The young defender is an RFA and just completed his rookie season after putting up good numbers in the AHL for the past two years. If Seattle were to start with a younger core he would be a key part of the defense.

Other Considerations: Nino Niederreiter (LW), Dougie Hamilton (D)*

 

Chicago Blackhawks  

Who I think Seattle picks: Adam Gaudette (C) - $950,000

Reason: Not much that was appealing. Gaudette is a decent young player who will likely bounce back after a terrible season.

Other Considerations: Brandon Pirri (LW)*, Malcolm Subban (G)

 

Colorado Avalanche 

Who I think Seattle picks: Joonas Donskoi (RW) - $3,900,000

Reason: My no-UFA policy takes out some appealing options (Gabriel Landeskog, Brandon Saad) so I'll go with the next best forward in Donskoi, how is still good in his won right. He could provide middle-six support or be flipped.

Other Considerations: Gabriel Landeskog (LW)*, Brandon Saad (RW)*

 

Columbus Blue Jackets

Who I think Seattle picks: Max Domi (C) - $5,300,000

Reason: Skimming through the Blue Jackets roster, there weren't may interesting options. At least with Domi, Seattle gets a good center that is looking to have a bounce-back year.

Other Considerations: None.

 

Dallas Stars

Who I think Seattle picks: Julius Honka (D) - $700,000

Reason: Most options were UFA or still projects. I thought about Ben Bishop but between age, cap hit, and having an NMC I don't think it would be too appealing to Seattle. Instead I'm picking Honka, mostly to see if the great analytics war over him will re-ignite if it happened.

Other Considerations: Jamie Oleksiak (D)*, Mark Pysyk (D)*, Ben Bishop (G)

 

Detroit Red Wings

Who I think Seattle picks: Troy Stecher (D) - $1,700,000

Reason: Surprisingly some decent options from a team that is still in rebuild mode. I think the consensus is Stecher getting picked, and it would be a good one, as the Richmond, B.C. native would go back to the west coast (and likely annoy Canuck fans who really want him back).

Other Considerations: Frans Nielsen (C), Vladislav Namestnikov (RW), Evgeny Svechnikov (LW)

 

Edmonton Oilers

Who I think Seattle picks: Oscar Klefbom (D) - $4,167,000

Reason: The Oilers left a few interesting options exposed, but I think the pick is to go with arguably the best available in Klefbom. Injuries sidelined him last year, but at 27 he still has some productive years left. Plus, take him and Giordano and pair them together (combined with Stecher) and watch western Canada meltdown.

Other Considerations: Jujhar Khaira (C), Dominik Kahun (LW)

Florida Panthers

Who I think Seattle picks: Chris Driedger (G) - $850,000

Reason: A cheat pick as Seattle has basically signed him.

Other Considerations: Markus Nutivaara (D), Frank Vatrano (RW)

Los Angeles Kings

Who I think Seattle picks: Carl Grundstrom (LW) - $725,000

Reason: There are some options on the Kings, mostly relating to youth as they look to rebuild. Grundstrom would be a good pick as he's only 23 and still has potential to be a decent piece of Seattle's future. If not, then he can be flipped.

Other Considerations: Kale Clague (D), Martin Frk (RW)*

 

Minnesota Wild

Who I think Seattle picks: Kaapo Kahkonen (G) - $725,000

Reason: Nick Bjugstad was what I was initially thinking, but it seems like Kahkonen has become the popular pick after a good rookie campaign. Might be worth the gamble given he's still on a cheap deal for another year.

Other Considerations: Nick Bjugstad (C), Carson Soucy (D)

 

Montreal Canadiens

Who I think Seattle picks: Brett Kulak (D) - $1,850,000

Reason: Lets just get this out of the way: I very much doubt Seattle will pick Carey Price. Yes, he would be an instantly marketable star for them, but between his age, contract (both amount and remaining) and the news he may need surgery to start the season makes him unappealing to them. Who knows, maybe on wrong and Bergevin's bluff is called (and to a lesser extent leaving Shea Weber and Jonathan Drouin unprotected). Kulak is a good bottom-paring defenseman who can be flipped if Seattle chooses to.

Other Considerations: Jonathan Drouin (LW), Cale Fleury (D)

Nashville Predators

Who I think Seattle picks: Calle Jarnkrok (LW) - $2,000,000

Reason: Nashville has quite a few non-immediate UFA options. Matt Duchene and Ryan Johansen highlight them, and while Johansen may be the most appealing between the two (younger, has some connection to the west coast given he played in Portland in junior), I don't foresee Seattle taking on that kind of cap hit given his drop in production. Jarnkrok is a pretty solid pick at a reasonable cap hit, and is only under contract for next season.

Other Considerations: Ryan Johansen (C)

 

New Jersey Devils 

Who I think Seattle picks: Scott Wedgewood (G) - $700,000

Reason: There were a few options on defense that were intriguing, but in the end I think they go for a cheaper option in Wedgewood. He's has one year remaining so either a low-risk gamble/minor league goaltending depth or someone that gets flipped shortly after the draft.

Other Considerations: P.K. Subban (D), Will Butcher (D), Andreas Johnsson (LW)

 

New York Islanders

Who I think Seattle picks: Sebastian Aho (D) - $725,000

Reason: Jordan Eberle and Josh Bailey are the go-to options, but given the cap implications I'm guessing they go a different route. Aho is still young and shows promise. Plus, it would be funny to see his name announced and have Carolina freak out for a second before realizing it's the other Aho.

Other Considerations: Jordan Eberle (RW), Josh Bailey (RW)

New York Rangers

Who I think Seattle picks: Julian Gauthier (RW) - $863,333

Reason: Looks like slim pickings from the Rangers, and I don't think that the Kraken are eager to take on Barclay Goodrow's new contract. Gauthier is probably the best out of all the options.

Other Considerations: Ty Ronning (C)

 

Ottawa Senators

Who I think Seattle picks: Vitaly Abramov (LW) - $730,833

Reason: Evgeni Dadonov was the first player I looked at, but again the cap hit may be too high for what Seattle wants. Maybe they take a flyer on an RFA here and see how it goes.

Other Considerations: Evgeni Dadonov (RW)

 

Philadelphia Flyers   

Who I think Seattle picks: Shayne Gostisbehere (D) - $4,500,000

Reason: The only interseting options from the Flyers may also be the most expensive ones. Gostisbehere is the younger of the bunch and it may be easier to move a defenseman if they so choose to (like Vegas did).

Other Considerations: Jakub Voracek (RW), James van Riemsdyk

 

Pittsburgh Penguins 

Who I think Seattle picks: Zach Aston-Reese (LW) - $1,000,000

Reason: Almost a no-brainer. Aston-Reese is a solid shutdown winger. Being an RFA, that cap hit will likely be higher, but for now the $1,000,000 price tag is a bargain.

Other Considerations: Marcus Pettersson (D), Evan Rodrigues (RW)

 

San Jose Sharks

Who I think Seattle picks: Ryan Donato (LW) - $1,900,000

Reason: Another one were there doesn't seem to be much to choose from. Donato is a decent winger who is a pending RFA. Another pick that has the potential to be flipped.

Other Considerations: Matt Nieto (LW)

 

St. Louis Blues

Who I think Seattle picks: Vladimir Tarasenko (RW) - $7,500,000

Reason: Another big fish that I think Seattle goes for. His time in St. Louis is basically over at this point and he may miss the start of the year due to surgery, so there is a risk. However, Tarasenko can still put the puck into the net, and - beside the draft - it's not a skill that comes around for free too often.

Other Considerations: Jaden Schwartz (LW)*, Vince Dunn (D), Samuel Blais (RW)

Tampa Bay Lightning

Who I think Seattle picks: Yanni Gourde (C) - $5,166,666

Reason: I've been light on center picks so far, so the Lightning give me a chance to correct. As much as Seattle probably wanted multiple picks from them, they can only choose one. Gourde is probably the best available, as he's shown he can produce for the Lightning.

Other Considerations: Ondrej Palat (RW), Tyler Johnson (RW), Alex Barre-Boulet (C)

Toronto Maple Leafs

Who I think Seattle picks: Jared McCann (LW) - $2,940,000

Reason: I'm not too sold on the leaked video of Seattle picking Alex Kerfoot. Sure, he was rumoured to be a target of theirs, but if you have someone of similar profile who is younger and cheaper (like McCann is), I can't see why they would pass on that option.

Other Considerations: Alex Kerfoot (C), Travis Dermott (D)

Vancouver Canucks

Who I think Seattle picks: Jay Beagle (C) - $3,000,000

Reason: The Canucks didn't have much that was interesting. I did start warming up to the idea of Beagle being picked and used as a defensive shutdown/penalty killing center then flipped during the season. Given that he one has one year left it's not a terrible gamble to make.

Other Considerations: Sven Baertschi (LW), Travis Hamonic (D)*

 

Washington Capitals

Who I think Seattle picks: Vitek Vanecek (G) - $716,667

Reason: As much as it would be amazing, I'm not so sure the Kraken would take Ovechkin. Vanecek seems like the popular option given his performance last season, and is another low-risk goalie gamble/trade chip.

Other Considerations: Alex Ovechkin (LW)*, Carl Hagelin (LW)

 

Winnipeg Jets

Who I think Seattle picks: Dylan Demelo (D) - $3,000,000

Reason: Another solid defenseman with term. Seattle will have plenty of options with Demelo (whether they choose to play him or trade him).

Other Considerations: Mathieu Perreault (LW)*

* Notes considerations that are UFA this year.

Name	Position	Former Team
Vitaly Abramov	Forward	Ottawa Senators
Zach Aston-Reese	Forward	Pittsburgh Penguins
Jay Beagle	Forward	Vancouver Canucks
Max Domi	Forward	Columbus Blue Jackets
Ryan Donato	Forward	San Jose Sharks
Joonas Donskoi	Forward	Colorado Avalanche
Christian Fischer	Forward	Arizona Coyotes
Adam Gaudette	Forward	Chicago Blackhawks
Julian Gauthier	Forward	New York Rangers
Yanni Gourde	Forward	Tampa Bay Lightning
Carl Grundstrom	Forward	Los Angeles Kings
Calle Jarnkrok	Forward	Nashville Predators
Ondrej Kase	Forward	Boston Bruins
Jared McCann	Forward	Toronto Maple Leafs
Vladimir Tarasenko	Forward	St. Louis Blues
Alexander Volkov	Forward	Anaheim Ducks
Sebastian Aho	Defenseman	New York Islanders
Jake Bean	Defenseman	Carolina Hurricanes
Dylan Demelo	Defenseman	Winnipeg Jets
Mark Giordano	Defenseman	Calgary Flames
Shayne Gostisbehere	Defenseman	Philadelphia Flyers
Julius Honka	Defenseman	Dallas Stars
Oscar Klefbom	Defenseman	Edmonton Oilers
Brett Kulak	Defenseman	Montreal Canadiens
Colin Miller	Defenseman	Buffalo Sabres
Troy Strecher	Defenseman	Detroit Red Wings
Chris Driedger	Goalie	Florida Panthers
Kaapo Kahkonen	Goalie	Minnesota Wild
Vitek Vanecek	Goalie	Washington Capitals
Scott Wedgewood	Goalie	New Jersey Devils

To summarized: 16 forwards, 10 defensemen, and 4 goalies were picked, with 22 under contract for next year. The cap hit is just shy of $71.4-million, leaving about $10-million in cap space to use, which leaves Seattle with a good chunk to use on free agency (or to sign some of the RFAs). It was lighter on centers than I expected, but given some of the picks were done with trades in mind there is the possibly to shore up that position. Same with goalies, as much as it would be tempting to pick a big name there, age and contracts may lead to them looking to acquire it elsewhere. On the other side, Seattle will have a pretty strong defense.

Will any of this be what Seattle does? Maybe a few picks. We'll find out tonight.

2020 NHL Stanley Cup Series Review: (2) Tampa Bay Lightning vs. (3) Dallas Stars

The Final came down to two teams that both started from the round robin portion of the playoffs, as the Tampa Bay Lightning (East) took on the Dallas Stars (West). Both teams were looking for their second Cup win, having won it once before (Dallas in 1999, Tampa Bay in 2004). Only one southern State-based team walked away champions though, as the Tampa Bay Lightning won in six games to win the 2020 Stanley Cup.

Games

Dallas Stars - 4

Tampa Bay Lighting - 1

 

The scoring was opened from an likely player: Joel Hanley. About six minutes into the first, the Stars forward took a pass from Roope Hintz and shot it over the blocker of Andrei Vasilevskiy to put Dallas in the lead. Jamie Benn had a chance to extend the lead moments later, thanks to an awkward bounce, but was not able to convert. A scrum a few minutes later resulted in play becoming 4-on-4. While the Lightning didn't get a shot during that time, they did use to to gain some momentum. It paid off later on, as a point shot from Blake Coleman was stooped, but rebounded off the skates of Yanni Gourde and Hintz before entering the Stars net. The period ended tied at 1-1, as neither team managed much in the way of shots after the Lightning's goal. The early part of the second period saw Tampa Bay get into some penalty trouble, as twice Blake Coleman was sent to the box (slashing and hooking respectively). Dallas wasn't able to capitalize on the man advantage though, as the closest they got was an Alex Radulov shot that hit the post. The Stars kept up the pressure though. Just over 12 minutes into the period, Radulov would find an open Jamie Oleksiak. The Stars defenseman's first shot was stopped, but he managed to get the rebound and lift it over a sliding Vasilevskiy to put Dallas back in the lead. It was them Tampa Bay's turn to put on the pressure, but failed to result in an equalizer. Just under 30 left i the period, it was Dallas' breakout star of the playoffs, Joel Kiviranta, who managed to beat Vasilevskiy to extend the Stars lead. The period didn't end overtly peaceful though, as Patrick Maroon shot the puck into the Stars bench at the buzzer (he was assessed a misconduct penalty for the action). The third period started off with Tampa Bay in control, as they managed five shot sin the first three minutes. Even an early powerplay though wasn't able to help the Lightning solve Anton Khudobin. Just over seven minutes into the third period, the Stars would get their first shot on net in the period. Tampa Bay's dominant play continued, but their efforts (along with two powerplays) went unrewarded. Jason Dickinson capped off the scoring with an empty netter (it was also the second, and last, shot Dallas had in the third). The 4-1 win gave Dallas the lead in the series.

Dallas Stars - 2

Tampa Bay Lighting - 3

Dallas got a few shots to start the game, but the story early on was Nikita Kucherov. The Lightning forward was banged up in the early going, taking a bad collision then a high-stick shortly after. A collision at the board minutes later though would cause him to go to the locker room (he would return to the game). The Lightning powerplay would come alive midway through the first. It was Brayden Point first, as his one-timer from the slot fluttered past the glove of Khudobin. Three minutes later, it was Ondrej Palat's turn, as he beat a sliding Khudobin (to note, Kucherov got the primary assist om both goals). The powerplay's momentum fed into their even strength play, as less than a minute later, Kevin Shattenkirk's point shot found it's way through a couple bodies (tipping off Esa Lindell) and into the Dallas net. A late powerplay didn't help the Stars much though, as the Lightning's 3-0 lead stood to end the period. Both teams exchanged powerplays early in the second, but neither could capitalize on them. Play did shift Dallas's way in the second, as the Stars looked to get on the board. They would do so later in the period, as on the powerplay, John Klingberg's shot was tipped by Joe Pavelski on it;s way into the Lightning net. Things got rough soon after, as a hit on Blake Comeau by Ryam McDonagh was followed by goaltender interference by Patrick Maroon. Jawing after the whistle also resulted in a couple players from each team getting sent off for roughing. Dallas failed to score on the powerplay, as the period ended with Tampa Bay still up by two. Play was rough to start the third, but things would calm down (surprisingly, with no penalties called). Mattias Janmark scored just over five minutes into the period, as he redirect a pass inform Klingberg into the Lightning net. Tampa Bay looked to have restored their tow-goal lead midway through the period, as Mikhail Sergachev's point shot found its way through a screened Khudobin. However, a challenge by Dallas showed that the play was offside, resulting in the goal being neglected. Dallas had a short offensive burst afterwards, but it was mostly Tampa Bay the rest of the way. Even with the net empty for an extra attacker, the Stars could not find the tying goal. Tampa Bay. The Lighting took the game 3-2, tying the series at a game a piece.

 

Tampa Bay Lighting - 5

Dallas Stars - 3

The story before this game was Steven Stamkos, as the Lightning forward made his playoff debut after being out since February with a core muscle injury. It took just over five minutes the first big mistake of the game to be a costly one. A turnover by Miro Heiskanen proved to be costly, as the puck went right to an open Kucherov. Kucherov skated in on a breakaway and snap it past Khudobin to make it 1-0 Lightning. Less than two minutes later, it was Stamkos who extended the lead, as he took the puck, slid past a Stars defender, and beat Khudobin blocker side. Dallas got a powerplay minutes later, but despite moving the puck well, was not able to solve Vasilevskiy. The powerplay was cut short though, as Kiviranta was called for interference. It ended up working out for Dallas though, as Jason Dickinson scored shorthanded to put the Stars on the board. Dallas started to take over from there, as they peppered Vasilevskiy with shots, looking for the tying goal. There was in interesting moment later in the period, as Dickinson had dislodged the Lightning net, however, as the Lightning had control of the puck, play resumed for about another 30 seconds before being whistled. Tampa Bay held on though, and escaped the period leading 2-1. Starting the second period on the powerplay, it didn't take long for the Lightning to add to their lead. Victor Hedman's snapshot from the slot beat Khudobin, making it 3-1 Lightning. It was a sign of things to come, as the period was dominated by Tampa Bay. Despite this, it did take them until the 12-minute mark to get another goal. This time, it was Point, who finished off a 3-on-1 by one-timing it past a sliding Khudobin. Palat capped off the scoring for the Lightning late in the period, burying a rebound to make it 5-1. New period, new goalie for Dallas, as Jake Oettinger relieved Khudobin in the Stars net. The third was less about shots and more about beating each other up, starting three minutes in with Palat and Janmark getting roughing penalties. 40 seconds later, it was Jan Rutta and Benn who were penalized after wrestling each other. The Stars did get one, as Heiskanen 's shot bounced off and over Vasilevskiy before trickling into the net. Dallas had two powerplays later on, but were not able to score on either. Just under two minutes left, things started to boil over, starting with Pavelski cross-checking Goodrow, and devolved to both teams having players sent off for roughing. Tampa Bay ended the game with a powerplay, but didn't do much with it. The 5-2 win put Tampa Bay in the series lead.   

 

Tampa Bay Lighting - 5 (OT)

Dallas Stars - 4

Tampa Bay looked to continue their momentum in this one, as they had the puck for most of the early part of the game. It was Dallas who opened the scoring though, one their first shot of the game. Just over seven minutes in, Klingberg had his first shot attempt blocked, but managed to get it back and quickly fired off a shot that went past the glove of Vasilevskiy. Dallas remained in control for a short time after, but it wasn't until late in the period when they found the back of the net again. Benn would pass to a streaking Pavelski, who finished off the play by quickly shooting it past a sliding Vasilevskiy. Just a minute later, the Lightning answered back. Palat sprung Point on a breakaway, and the Lighting forward made no mistake in deking out Khudobin and chipping a backhander into the Stars net. The first period ended shortly after, as Dallas went into the intermission up 2-1. A powerplay early in the second helped Tampa Bay tie the game. It was Point once again, as he batted the puck out of the air and into the Dallas net. Things got worse for Dallas, as minutes later, Roope Hintz would trip over a stick and crash into the boards. The Stars forward did get up, but was assisted off the ice and would not return to the game. Dallas did managed to regain the lead though, thanks to their counter attack. Tyler Seguin would fight off a check as he went to the Lightning net. He managed to slide the puck past Vasilevskiy and into the crease, where a streaking Corey Perry got just enough of the puck to push it past the goal line. Once again, a goal gave the Stars momentum, as they looked to extend their lead. Nick Caamano came close, but could not lift the puck over the outstretch pad of Vasilevskiy. A powerplay wasn't much help to the Stars either. The Lightning did tie the game late in the period, thanks again to another powerplay of their own. Yanni Gourde put home a deflected puck to tie the game. The score remained for the rest of the period, as both teams entered the intermission tied 3-3.It stayed tied for the first six minutes of the third. That was when Alex Killorn's shot managed to find a way over Khudobin's shoulder and right into the top corner of the net. While Dallas wasn't able to convert on a powerplay midway through the period, it didn't take long after it for them to do so. Pavelski's shot bounced off Vasilevskiy, hit the knee of Shattenkirk, and went into the Lightning net. Near the end of the period, Perry (hooking) and Point (embellishment) were called for penalties. Regulation time ended with both teams at 4 goals each, meaning overtime was needed. Early in the extra frame, Sergachev was called for holding, giving the Stars the man advantage. Much like the rest of the game though, Dallas'  powerplay expired without a goal. Minutes later, it was the Lightning's turn on the powerplay, as Benn was called for tripping. Much like the rest of the game, Tampa Bay's powerplay converted. Shattenkirk snapped a shot that beat a screened Khudobin. winning the game in the process. The 5-4 win put Tampa Bay up 3-1 in the series, leaving them one win away from winning the Cup.

Dallas Stars - 3 (2OT)

Tampa Bay Lighting - 2

It was back-and-forth early one, with both teams getting shots but failing to hit the back of the net. After a lot of play with very few whistles, it was the Dallas Stars who opened the scoring. Oleksiak started the play by keeping the puck in the Lighting zone and passing it to Seguin. Seguin tried to get by a defender, but it was Perry who took the puck and snapped it past Vasilevskiy. Perry's goal was the lone one of the period, as Dallas led 1-0 after 20 minutes. Perry had a chance early in the second, but his one-timer was stopped by Vasilevskiy. Four minutes into the period, Tampa Bay tied the game. Palat took a pass from Kucherov, cut across the crease, and tucked it by the pad of Khudobin. Tampa Bay continued to pressure after the goal, looking to take the lead. Dallas did get a few chances of their own in the period, thanks to a powerplay. Neither team though could break the tie, as the second period ended with the score at 1-1. IT didn't take too long in the third for the tie to be broken. Just over three minutes in, a point shot from Sergachev found it's way through a screened Khudobin and into the Stars net. Dallas looked to catch a break when they got a powerplay midway through the period. However, it was shortly after it expired when they struck, as Joe Pavelski buried a rebound to toe the game. The Lighting almost regained the lead moments later, as Anthony Circelli's shot took a deflection and bounced off the post. That ended up being the closest either team got, as the third period end 3-3, leading to overtime being needed for a second game. Tampa Bay was in control for most of the period, as they had have majority of the shots in the period. There was a bit of unseen controversy late in the extra frame, as Dallas was called for icing, but upon the broadcast review, the puck had actually hit the toe of Vasilevskiy. Not being reviewable, or noticed by anyone, the play was considered an icing. The Stars did get their first shot of the period 17:53 into it. Tampa Bay end the extra frame leading in shots 7-2, but none of them resulted in the winning goal. A second overtime period was needed. The second overtime was more even in play, as both teams had spurts on offense to being the period. This period needed all of 9:23 before it ended. A point shot from Klingberg was blocked, but Perry was in front of the net, and would eventually put the puck into the Lightning net. Perry goal gave the Stars the 3-2 win, and kept them alive in the series.

Tampa Bay Lighting - 2

Dallas Stars - 0

Neither team looked good in the being, highlighted by the fact there were three shots combined in the first six minutes. The Lightning were awarded a powerplay, but failed to register a shot on net. They were back on the powerplay minutes later though, and this time the outcome was different. Point had is initial shot stopped, but managed to pounce on the rebound and whack it past Khudobin. Tampa Bay looked much better after the goal, as they continued to pressure, looking to extend lead. Dallas did get a powerplay of their own late in the period, but only managed to take a few shots. Tampa Bay ended the first period up 1-0. The second started similar to the first, as it was relatively uneventful. Seven minutes into the period, that changed. A giveaway to a changing Lightning bench led to them entering the Stars zone. Cedric Paquette found Coleman with a cross-ice pass, which the Lightning winger one-timed past a sliding Khudobin. Dallas did get a powerplay a minute later, but again failed to capitalize on it. The powerplay didn't last the full two minutes though, as Perry was called for goaltender interference, resulting in 4-on-4 for a short time before Tampa Bay went on the man advantage. Between the powerplay and sustained pressure afterwards, the Lightning were unable to extend their lead. The Lightning remained in the lead as the second period ended, as they entered the second intermission up 2-0. Dallas came out in the third playing with more urgency, and ended up controlling play for most of the period. Vasilevskiy and the Lightning defense stood tall though, not letting the Stars find their way onto the scoreboard. Vasilevskiy himself stopped 22 shots in the shutout effort. The Tampa Bay Lightning's 2-0 win was their fourth of the series, making them Stanley Cup Champions.

Three Thoughts on the Series

1. It was pretty cool that the Stanley Cup was positioned above the ice. Although security may want to keep an eye on it though.
   
2. I didn't realize Vasilevskiy's agent was Allan Walsh.
3. The Lighting won because they SHOOT!
4. It does suck that the pandemic limited plans for the players regarding having their day with the Cup.
5. I know they talked about it, but the NHL should have piped in boos for Bettman. Here a proper version of the Cup being awarded.
   
6. And finally: The Stars - unlike their captain - finally went down.
   

Picture of the Series

The Lightning win their first legitimate second Cup in their franchise's history.

Highlight of the Series

 

Since the Lightning won, Steven Stamkos' time on ice of 2:47 will likely be stuff of Stanley Cup lore. Here's his lone goal in the playoffs.

 

 

 

2020 NHL Stanley Cup Series Review: (2) Tampa Bay Lightning vs. (6) New York Islanders

A well-rested Tampa Bay Lightning faced off against a plucky underdog in the New York Islanders. The rest-versus-rust debate was settled after the Lightning blowout in Game 1, while the rest of the series was - for the most part - closer than expected. It may have taken a few games more than they would have liked, but the Tampa Bay Lightning got by the New York Islanders in six games, earning a spot in the Stanley Cup Final. 

Games

New York Islanders - 2

Tampa Bay Lightning - 8

 

It didn't take long for the Lighting to get on the board, as a minute in Brayden Point's power move at the net led to him reaching past Thomas Greiss and sliding the puck into the net. A powerplay minutes later helped the Islanders tie the game. Matt Barzal's shot was block (by teammate Anders Lee), but Jordan Eberle managed to fish out the loose puck and put it past Andrei Vasilevskiy. Tampa Bay would get a powerplay goal of their own four minutes later, as Victor Hedman blasted one by the blocker of Greiss. Tampa Bay's defense kept up it's offense, as Ryan McDonagh beat a screened Greiss moments later to extend the Lightning's lead. Early in the second, Patrick Maroon would skate around Semyon Varlamov and tried to pass it out front. Yanni Gourde was there for the loose puck, but it initially looked like Andy Greene got his stick in the way of a sure goal. Play went on for about 15 seconds before the horn of doom sounded, as the play was reviewed. It  was determined the puck fully went in before being knocked out by Greene's stick. Gourde was given the goal as Tampa Bay was now up 4-1. Later in the period, a powerplay led to the big three for Tampa Bay (Nikita Kucherov, Hedman, and Point) connecting for a goal. Tampa kept up the scoring in the third. Just under six minutes in, Point and Kucherov went in on a 2-on-2 rush, resulting in Kucherov redirecting Points pass into the Islanders net. New York did one back minutes later, as Nick Leddy snapped one past the glove of Vasilevskiy. Just a minute later, a turnover in the Islanders zone resulted in another Lightning goal, as Ondrej Palat got around Varlamov and tucked it into the net. Yanni Gourde capped off the scoring for Tampa Bay later in the period, getting his second of the game on a powerplay. The game was never in doubt for the Lightning, as they blow out the Islander 8-2 to take the first game.

New York Islanders - 1

Tampa Bay Lightning - 2

 

New York looked to put the last game behind them, and a quick goal to start the game help them do just that. Matt Martin chipped the puck over the shoulder of Vasilevskiy to give the Islanders their first lead of the series. About six minutes in, Tampa Bay would lose Alex Killorn for the game, as he was given a five-and-a-game for boarding Brock Nelson. The Islanders couldn't do much on the five minute powerplay though, as the game remained 1-0. It sayed that way until late in the first, when Tampa Bay won an offensive zone faceoff back to Hedman. The Lightning defender didn't take long to got a shot off, as it found its way through a mass of bodies, hit the post, and bounced into the net to tie the game. Things got rougher in the second, starting with Martin and Luke Schenn getting into a fight. Minutes later, Gourde was penalized for punching Scott Mayfield. Nelson returned to the game, but was hit and cross-checked by Barclay Goodrow. This led to Martin and Pat Maroon getting into a shoving match. Things were a little more peaceful in the third, as both teams continued to look a for a go-ahead goal. As the third period was coming to a close, Tampa Bay put on the pressure. Eventually, McDonagh found Kucherov with a cross-ice pass, and Kucherov connected on it. Varlamov wasn't able to stop it, as the puck enter the Islanders net. The goal with just over eight seconds left sealed the victory for Tampa Bay, as they take a two game series lead.

Tampa Bay Lightning - 3

New York Islanders - 5

 

Both teams came out firing in this one, but it took a little longer for one of them to open the scoring. Midway through the first, Cal Clutterbuck took a loose puck and shot it between the post and Vasilevskiy's blocker to give New York the lead. The lead didn't last too long, as less than four minutes later, Mikhail Sergachev lifted a backhand over Varlamov to tie the game. This time, it was the Islanders getting the go-ahead goal. Midway through the second, a quick passing play resulted in Adam Pelech getting the puck. The Islander defenseman proceeded to snap a shot under the glove of Vasilevskiy to give New York the lead. The play wasn't over though, as a battle in front of the net saw Lee and Cedric Paquette get sent off for roughing. Two minutes later, Nelson circled the Lighting net and fed Anthony Beauvillier in the slot, whose quick shot snuck past Vasilevskiy. Now down two, Tampa Bay looked to crawl back in this one. They got a break with a powerplay early in the third, as Palat redirected Kucherov's pass into the Islanders net. Ten minutes later, Tyler Johnson deflected Erik Cernak's point shot past Varlamov to tie the game. New York managed to retake the lead minutes later, as this time it was Beauvillier finding Nelson with a pass that the latter put into the net. J-G Pageau added in empty netter late in the period, which also saw Sergachev hack Pageau's leg in the during the play. Once the goal was scored a scrum ensued, resulting in a handful of misconduct penalties (Pageau and Sergachev being two of them). Seconds later, Martin and Goodrow capped off the night with a fight. The game ended with the Islanders winning 5-2, giving them their first win of the series.

 

Tampa Bay Lightning - 4

New York Islanders - 1

 

The Lightning looked to correct things from last game, but even with the shot advantage, could not get anything by Varlamov in the first. The ending of the first wasn't a friendly though, as a shot after the buzzer by Martin resulted in both teams getting into a scrum. Things would pick up in the second, as midway through the period, Nelson snapped one over the glove of Vasilevskiy to open the scoring. The Islanders lead would last all of 15 second, as Blake Coleman was sprung on a breakaway, deked out Varlamov, and tucked it into the Islanders net. Just 12 seconds after that, the Lightning took the lead. Palat took Kucherov's pass in the slot and fired it on net, and while Varlamov got a piece of it, the puck still found its way past the post and into the net. Both teams swapped powerplays later in the period, but neither manage to make much of them. Early in the third, it was Palat's time to set up a goal. The Lightning forward would feed Point in the Islanders crease, as all Point needed to do was redirect the pass into the net. New York's efforts to get back into it would fall short. Patrick Maroon added an empty netter to finish it off, as Tampa Bay took the game 4-1, and became one game closer to a spot in the Final. 

New York Islanders - 2 (2OT)

Tampa Bay Lightning - 1

 

The start was slower in this one, neither team getting anything of quality early. A powerplay later in the period did open things up for the Islanders, as Ryan Pulock's one-timer found the back of the Lighting net. Tampa Bay's responded early in the second period. Coleman's initial shot would be stopped, but a trialing Hedman pounced on the rebound and blast it past Varlamov to tie the game. Carter Verhaeghe looked to have put the Lightning in the lead halfway though the second, snapping it over Varlamov. A challenge by the Islanders begged to differ, as a review showed the play was offside. The go-ahead goal was negating, as the game stayed tied at one each. Tampa Bay had a chance to once again in a game in the dying minutes, as Beauvillier was given a double-minor for high sticking with about a minute-and-a-half left in regulation. Their powerplay couldn't get much going though, as regulation came to a close. For the first time this series, overtime was needed. Still on the powerplay, Kucherov did get an early chance for the Lighting, but Varlamov managed to get his pad in the way. For the extra 20 minutes, the four shots each team managed did not get past the goal line. A second overtime was required. Once again, it was Kucherov getting an early chance, but the Lightning forward would be stifled by the post this time. Later in the period, a turnover at the Islanders blueline ended up being costly for the Lighting. Lee would take the puck and skate down on a 2-on-1. He passed it over to Eberle, whose one-timer beat a sliding Vasilevskiy for the win. The 2-1 win kept the Islanders in the series, and helped them extend it at least one more game.

Tampa Bay Lightning - 2 (OT)

New York Islanders - 1

 

The Islanders didn't take as long to get on the board this time. Just over four minutes in, some sustained pressure in the Lighting zone led to Devon Toews getting the puck and being able to put home a wraparound attempt. Two minutes later, it was Hedman responding for Tampa Bay. The Lighting defender once again capitalized on a rebound, snapping it past the blocker of Varlamov. Much like last game, once it was tied it would stay that way for a while. Tampa Bay had control of the shot counter during regulation, as they were eager to put the series away. For the second game in a row, overtime was required. The Lightning would start the extra frame on the powerplay, as late in the third Greene was called for double-minor high stick on Kucherov. The Lighting could not capitalize on the extended man advantage though. It might have been New York who had the best chance during that time, as Nelson caused a turnover and went in on a breakaway. Vasilevskiy stood tall though and made the save. The Islanders got a powerplay of their own later in overtime, but failed to score on it. It took just over 13 minutes, but the Lightning would get the winning goal. Cirelli too a feed from Goodrow in front of the net and snapped it over the shoulder of Varlamov. The win was Tampa Bay's fourth of the series, as they move on to the Stanley Cup Final.

Three Thoughts on the Series

1. Have to give credit to the Islanders for making it this far. I know their style of hockey isn't very entertaining, but damn if it doesn't work for them.
   
2. Vasilevskiy angling for that Pull-Ups endorsement.
   
3. Varly shooting meme. That is all.
   

Picture of the Series

Prince of Wales Trophy Family Portrait (Steven Stamkos Sighting!)

Highlight of the Series

 

Lets go with Eberle's overtime goal. Him scoring such a big goal in an Orange and Blue jersey is what we all pictured when he was drafted in 2008 right?

 

 

2020 NHL Stanley Cup Series Review: (1) Vegas Golden Knights vs. (3) Dallas Stars

A couple of teams from the round robin portion of the playoffs meet again, as the top-seeded Vegas Golden Knights took on the third-seed Dallas Stars. Unlike the round robin though, the results would be much different. Thanks to (among other things) strong goaltending, Dallas managed to knock off Vegas in five games, and earned a spot in the Stanley Cup Finals.

  

Games

Dallas Stars - 1

Vegas Golden Knights - 0

Dallas managed to get an early lead in this one. Minutes into the period, Jamie Benn's shot would be blocked, but John Klingberg was there to take the loose puck and wrist it past Marc-Andre Fleury. Shot were traded during the first, but the score would remain the same. Nick Cousins may have had the best chance to tie the game for Vegas, but he could not bury the rebound attempt. Dallas would control most of the second, while it took Vegas about nine minutes to get their first shot of the period. Roles reversed in the third, as Vegas dominated the shot counter while Dallas was limited in their attempts. Khudobin was up to the task though, as the Stars goaltender ended up saving 25 shots in the shutout effort. Klingberg's goal ended up being the lone one of the game, as Dallas taking the first game of the series.

 

Dallas Stars - 0

Vegas Golden Knights - 3

A relatively uneventful first gave way yo a much better second period. The Golden Knights finally got on the board in the series, as about five minutes into the second, Paul Statsny redirected a pass from Max Pacioretty in to the Stars net. Dallas soon were getting into penalty trouble, which would cost them. One one of their powerplays, William Karlsson wrist shot found its way under the pad of Khudobin to extend Vegas' lead. The Golden Knight looked to have another powerplay goal minutes later, as Shea Theodore's one-timer beat Khudobin. The goal was challenged by the Stars though, as Pacioretty bumped into Khudobin during his save attempt. The challenge proved to be successful for Dallas, as the goal was waved off. Vegas ended up getting their third goal later in the period, as Tomas Nosek finished off a 3-on-1, tic-tac-toe play. Dallas changed goalies to start the third, as Jake Oettinger made his NHL debut. The rookie netminder did well, stopping five shots and letting none get by him. The other end saw Lehner stay perfect through the 60 minutes, stopping 24 shots for the shutout. The 3-0 win helped Vegas tie the series.

 

Vegas Golden Knights - 2

Dallas Stars - 3 (OT)

Khudobin looked to rebound after getting pulled last game, and the Stars goalie was up to the task. While Vegas dominated the shot counter in the first period, Khudobin wasn't letting anything by him. Lehner was much of the same, just with a lighter workload. The board finally saw a tally late in the second. After blocking a shot, the Stars countered immediately, as Miro Heiskanen sent Jamie Oleksiak on a breakaway. The Stars defenseman showed he had some offense as well, deking out Lehner and sliding the puck between Lehner's pad and the post to put Dallas in the lead. A powerplay in the third helped Vegas tie the game, as Shea Theodore's  shot deflected off a defender;s stick and over the shoulder of Khudobin. About four minutes later, Jamie Benn took back the lead for Dallas, as the Stars forward beat Lehner five-hole. Dallas' new lead would last all of five minutes. In the Stars zone, Alex Tuch circled with the puck and snapped a shot, which deflected off of Mark Stone and into the net. Dallas challenged the goal as it looked like Stone may have interfered with Khudobin. It would be unsuccessful though, as the goal stood. Vegas had a couple chances to take the lead on the ensuing powerplay, but Khudobin managed to get in their way. Benn had a chance to win the game in the dying seconds of regulation, but Lehner got in front of the shot to keep it out. Overtime was needed to determine a winner of this game.Just 31 seconds was needed in the extra frame, as Alexander Radulov's wrist shot beat Lehner's blocker and pinged off the post before entering the net. The overtime win put Dallas back in the series lead.

Vegas Golden Knights - 1

Dallas Stars - 2

Like the past few games, the first period remained goalless. Once again, Khudobin was the busier of the two goalies, stopping 13 shots in the first 20 minutes (Lehner, by comparison, stopped five). Vegas looked to get one early in the second, as Karlsson's shot managed to sneak by Khudobin. However, the Dallas goalie managed to drop and turn his pads quick enough to stop the puck from getting across the goal line. The Golden Knights did open the scoring minutes later, thanks to their third powerplay of the game. From a faceoff, the puck was won back to Nate Schmidt. Schmidt hit his defense partner Alec Martinez with a quick pass, leading to Martinez one-timing it toward the Stars net. Khudobin wasn't about to get a piece of it, as the puck snuck under his blocker and into the net. Vegas didn't think one goal was enough, and kept up the pressure, looking to extend their lead. Khudobin stood in the way though, not wanting to give up another goal. Midway through the period, Joe Pavelski got Dallas on the board, as his shot hit Schmidt's stick and floated pass Lehner. Things didn't look good for the Vegas netminder, as minutes later he was shaken up after taking a shot to the neck. After staying down for a brief moment, he would get up and remain in the game. Dallas would get a powerplay goal of their own late in the period. A shot from Klingberg was stopped, but Benn collected the rebound and put it on net, as the puck bounced off Lehner's arm en route to the back of the net. The late goal gave the Stars the lead for the first time in this game. Vegas got a couple good chances in the third, including Pacioretty ringing one off the post. However, even a 5-on-3 wasn't enough to get the Golden Knights the tying goal. The Stars hung on to take the game 2-1, and were one win away from advancing.

 

Dallas Stars - 3 (OT)

Vegas Golden Knights - 2

For the first time since Game 1, there would be a first period goal. Just over eight minutes in, Theodore sprung Chandler Stephenson on a breakaway. The Golden Knights forward made no mistake on his breakaway attempt, tucking the puck past Khudobin to give Vegas the lead. Much like the last game, Vegas didn't want to leave it to just one goal, and pressed to extend their lead. While they lead in shots through two periods, they could not get another goal. Dallas had a few chances of their own (highlighted by a Denis Gurianov breakaway attempt), but could not get on the board. Things did change in the third period. Just 15 seconds in, a 2-on-1 by Vegas saw Reilly Smith keep the puck and snap it over the glove of Khudobin, making it 2-0 for the Golden Knights. Halfway through the period, a scramble in front of the Vegas net resulted in Benn corralling the loose puck and beating a screened Lehner, bringing Dallas to within a goal to tie. Later in the period, a powerplay for the Stars helped them tie the game. Klingberg's shot was blocked and tricked to the side of the net. Joel Kirivanta was there though, as Dallas' hero from the previous series lifted the puck over a downed Lehner to make it a 2-2 game. Regulation time would end with no other goals scored, resulting in overtime being needed for the second time this series. Just minutes into overtime, Zach Whitecould was called for a delay of game penalty after hitting the puck out of play. During the latter-half of the powerplay, Dallas worked the puck around the perimeter. It wound up going to Gurianov, whose one-timer went under the glove of Lehner and into the back of the net. Thjs goal secured the series win for the Stars, as they moved on to the Stanley Cup Final.

Three Thoughts on the Series

1. Jamie Benn's team, still not going down.
   
2. Maybe the Golden Knights should work on their penalty kill in elimination games.
   
3. "WE'RE NOT GOING HOME"
   

Picture of the Series

That ones gotta sting. Even as a goalie I never got why some guys don't play with a throat protector on their mask.

Highlight of the Series

 

The passing by the Golden Knights on this goal is very nice.