Round two starts tomorrow, so here is a look at each series.
(A2) Ottawa Senators vs. (W1) New York Rangers
Initially, it looked like New York would have the advantage, but then the first round happened. For the Rangers, they got by a Montreal Canadiens teams that lacked the ability to score. New York's offenses did chip in a bit, and Henrik Lundqvist was his usual self, but they also got by despite their deficiencies on the back end. The Rangers were also pretty up-and-down, managing to get hot one minute and go cold the next. For most of the series though, they were losing the possession battle. Ottawa meanwhile, managed to get by a depleted Boston Bruins team (who, by the end of it, was icing an AHL lineup). Erik Karlsson was a stud (as usual) and Bobby Ryan started turning things on, while in net Craig Anderson was solid. The Senators were the slightly better possession team in that series. Overall, Ottawa has been the more consistent team between the two, and it seems like New York may not be able to handle them if they can find a way to beat Lundqvist. Ottawa in six.
(M1) Washington Capitals vs. (M2) Pittsburgh Penguins
Ah yes, a good old Sid vs. Ovi series. Washington got by Toronto after six games in what was a very tight (and entertaining) series. While Ovechkin only managed three goals, line mates T.J. Oshie and Nicklas Backstrom managed to pick up the offense (along with Justin Williams). Holtby played well, sporting a save percentage of 0.925. The other series saw Pittsburgh take care of Columbus in five games. It's no surprise that Malkin, Kessel, and Crosby lead the way in points (11, 8, and 7 respectively). What is a surprise is who's scoring the goals. Jake Guentzel (5) and Bryan Rust (4) have been filling the net. Taking over for an injured Matt Murray, Marc-Andre Fleury showed that he is still reliable, putting up a 0.933 SV%. It's hard to go with a team that has some key players injured (along with Murray, Kris Letang is out). However, the Penguins do own some real estate in this Capitals team's head, which accounts for something. One thing we're all hoping for is this to be another long series. Pittsburgh in seven.
(C3) St. Louis Blues vs. (W2) Nashville Predators
A tale of two different (yet similar) teams. St. Louis was completely outplayed in their series against Minnesota, but one man, Jake Allen, was there to propel the team to the next round. Allen stood on his head, and ended the series with a 0.956 SV%. All the while, St. Louis didn't have one player being an offensive game breaker (Jaden Schwartz led the team with 5 points). The other series saw the more offensive-minded Nashville Predators take care of Chicago in four game. Pekke Rinne was lights out in goal, only giving up three goals in the four games, good enough for a 0.976 SV%. Ryan Johansen led the team with 6 points, as scoring on the team was spread out. This series is set up to be a repeat of round one for St. Louis, with Nashville expecting to control play while Allen turns into Jaroslav Halak circa 2010. Unfortunately, it's hard to see the Blues advance if they can't beat an even better Rinne at the other end. Nashville in five.
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (P2) Edmonton Oilers
The good news for both teams is that their travel schedules are similar to round one. Anaheim swept Calgary in four games, in a series that was closer than the amount of games played indicates. What helped the Ducks end the series early was some not-so-good goaltending from Calgary. It shows in the stats, as Anaheim has 5 players (Ryan Getzlaf, Rickard Rackell, Shea Theodore (!), Kevin Bieksa (!!), and Nate Thompson (!!!)) at a point per game or better pace. The other series saw Edmonton need six games to get past San Jose. Edmonton was the better possession team in that series. It's no surprise that Connor McDavid leads the team offensively (four points in six games). Cam Talbot held the fort in goal, earning two shutouts in the series and finishing with a 0.927 SV% (which includes the five goals the Sharks scored in the 7-0 drubbing). Edmonton is a quicker team, which helped them get past San Jose, but Anaheim should be able to keep up with them. The Ducks defense is better (and should get a boost as Cam Flower may be back soon). The Oilers will likely win a few, but right now it's the Ducks for the taking. Anaheim in six.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Monday, April 24, 2017
2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 2
Eastern Conference
(A2) Ottawa Senators vs. (W1) New York Rangers
Brad: Ottawa Senators
MDK: Ottawa Senators
(M1) Washington Capitals vs. (M2) Pittsburgh Penguins
Brad: Pittsburgh Penguins
MDK: Pittsburgh Penguins
Western Conference
(C3) St. Louis Blues vs. (W2) Nashville Predators
Brad: Nashville Predators
MDK: Nashville Predators
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (P2) Edmonton Oilers
Brad: Anaheim Ducks
MDK: Edmonton Oilers
After Round 1
Brad: 3-5
MDK: 4-4
Thursday, April 13, 2017
2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs - Round 1 Preview
A day late, but better than never. Here's a quick preview of each series.
(A1) Montreal Canadiens vs. (W1) New York Rangers
Ah yes, Carey Price vs. Chris Kreider round 4,324. The division-winning Canadians have been one of the hottest teams in the league since they hired Claude Julien as the head coach. There is a good team in front of Price, with Max Pacioretty leading the offense and Markov, Weber, and co. on the blueline. The only issue is if they ever give Alex Galchenyuk his rightful spot at center. It can be argued that New York has a slight advantage with forwards. The defense is another story, as their blueline has mostly been Ryan McDonagh and...well that's about it. Combined with Henrik Lundqvist showing his age (especially after last year's playoffs), it's hard to see the Rangers going too far. They'll win a few games, but it looks to be the Canadiens for the taking. Montreal in six.
(A2) Ottawa Senators vs. (A3) Boston Bruins
Ottawa is the higher seed, but the Bruins look to be the better team. Ottawa does have their weapons though, as Erik Karlsson once again leads the team in points, with Mark Stone and Mike Hoffman up front. Craig Anderson is pretty solid in net, and does show up in the playoffs. The Boston line of Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, and David Pasternak has been straight fire for the Bruins though, and they look to have more depth than Ottawa. Tuukka Rask is a solid goalie as well. Anderson may steal a game for the Sens, but the Bruins look to be the better overall team. Boston in six.
(M1) Washington Capitals vs. (W2) Toronto Maple Leafs
CAPS IN THREE!!! Joking, joking. While Washington is the favourite to win (and with good reason), due has to be given to Toronto. The Leafs team has a young core that can play, a couple of good veterans, and a great coach in Mike Babcock. The Presidents Trophy-winning Capitals are the most established team, with firepower aplenty, and a Vezina-winning goaltender in Braden Holtby. It seems like the time for this Caps team to finally break through to the third round, while the Leafs will be happy for the experience (for now). Washington in five.
(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (M3) Columbus Blue Jackets
This will be an interesting series. There is the usual Sidney Crosby vs. Brandon Dubinsky headline, but these teams can create a good series. Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Phil Kessel lead the offense for Pittsburgh, and Matt Murray has proven to be a starting goalie (who at the time of writing, is injured). Injuries do hurt the Penguins, especially losing defenseman Kris Letang. Columbus is no slouch though, as they do have some viable offensive weapons. Their defense does look a little better on paper, thanks to the emergence of Zach Werenski. Sergei Bobrovsky has also returned to Vezina form. Injuries do hinder the Penguins, but in the end they are the better team. Pittsburgh in seven.
(C1) Chicago Blackhawks vs. (W2) Nashville Predators
Usually every year it seems like there is one first round matchup were it feels like the winner of it will go on to the Cup. This is that series. Both teams are solid offensive and defensively. The difference may come down to goaltending. Last time the teams met, Corey Crawford was replaced by Scott Darling, who helped the Blackhawks win that series. This time around Crawford should be better. Pekka Rinne is the question mark, as his play has decreased over the years. It's a close one, but I can see the Blackhawks eeking it out in a long series. Chicago in seven.
(C2) Minnesota Wild vs. (C3) St. Louis Blues
Minnesota seems like the favourite and it's not too hard to see why. They have a more balanced attack and Devan Dubynk is pretty solid in goal (despite a recent sputter). Bruce Boudreau is also a damn good coach (just might want to avoid seven game series). St. Louis is a little more top heavy on the attack, led by Vladimir Tarasenko. The Blues are coming into the playoffs on a hot streak, so they have a bit of momentum. Still, the Wild look to be the better team, and I'm still not completely sold on Jake Allen backstopping the Blues to playoff success. Minnesota in six.
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (W1) Calgary Flames
Talk about home advantage, the Flames haven't won in Anaheim since 2004. Despite this, Calgary has a team that can cause a few upsets. Led offensively by Johnny Gaudreau, rolling the 3M line, and having one of the best defense core in the league, Calgary should be poised for playoff success. Anaheim is still Anaheim though, and they are a pretty solid team. Ryan Getzlaf can still put up the points, Ryan Kesler looks to be regaining his form from years ago, and they also have a pretty good defense core. Despite the Flames having an edge in net (I like Brian Elliot over John Gibson), it seems like Calgary is still a year away from being a serious contender, while the Ducks Cup window is still open, even though it's a sliver. Anaheim in six.
(P2) Edmonton Oilers vs. (P3) San Jose Sharks
I guess all those first overall picks finally paid off, as the Oilers are back in the playoffs for the first time since their Cup run 2006. They will be in tough, as they face last year's finalist, the Sharks. Edmonton is lead by Connor McDavid and...well mostly McDavid (ok, Leon Draisaitl has been good as well). Cam Tablot has had a decent season in net for the Oilers. San Jose is still San Jose, with guys like Joe Thronton, Brent Burns, Joe Pavelski, and Logan Couture leading the way. The Sharks also have the better goalie in Martin Jones. Edmonton will get a few in the series, but San Jose will end up the winner. San Jose in six
(A1) Montreal Canadiens vs. (W1) New York Rangers
Ah yes, Carey Price vs. Chris Kreider round 4,324. The division-winning Canadians have been one of the hottest teams in the league since they hired Claude Julien as the head coach. There is a good team in front of Price, with Max Pacioretty leading the offense and Markov, Weber, and co. on the blueline. The only issue is if they ever give Alex Galchenyuk his rightful spot at center. It can be argued that New York has a slight advantage with forwards. The defense is another story, as their blueline has mostly been Ryan McDonagh and...well that's about it. Combined with Henrik Lundqvist showing his age (especially after last year's playoffs), it's hard to see the Rangers going too far. They'll win a few games, but it looks to be the Canadiens for the taking. Montreal in six.
(A2) Ottawa Senators vs. (A3) Boston Bruins
Ottawa is the higher seed, but the Bruins look to be the better team. Ottawa does have their weapons though, as Erik Karlsson once again leads the team in points, with Mark Stone and Mike Hoffman up front. Craig Anderson is pretty solid in net, and does show up in the playoffs. The Boston line of Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, and David Pasternak has been straight fire for the Bruins though, and they look to have more depth than Ottawa. Tuukka Rask is a solid goalie as well. Anderson may steal a game for the Sens, but the Bruins look to be the better overall team. Boston in six.
(M1) Washington Capitals vs. (W2) Toronto Maple Leafs
CAPS IN THREE!!! Joking, joking. While Washington is the favourite to win (and with good reason), due has to be given to Toronto. The Leafs team has a young core that can play, a couple of good veterans, and a great coach in Mike Babcock. The Presidents Trophy-winning Capitals are the most established team, with firepower aplenty, and a Vezina-winning goaltender in Braden Holtby. It seems like the time for this Caps team to finally break through to the third round, while the Leafs will be happy for the experience (for now). Washington in five.
(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (M3) Columbus Blue Jackets
This will be an interesting series. There is the usual Sidney Crosby vs. Brandon Dubinsky headline, but these teams can create a good series. Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Phil Kessel lead the offense for Pittsburgh, and Matt Murray has proven to be a starting goalie (who at the time of writing, is injured). Injuries do hurt the Penguins, especially losing defenseman Kris Letang. Columbus is no slouch though, as they do have some viable offensive weapons. Their defense does look a little better on paper, thanks to the emergence of Zach Werenski. Sergei Bobrovsky has also returned to Vezina form. Injuries do hinder the Penguins, but in the end they are the better team. Pittsburgh in seven.
(C1) Chicago Blackhawks vs. (W2) Nashville Predators
Usually every year it seems like there is one first round matchup were it feels like the winner of it will go on to the Cup. This is that series. Both teams are solid offensive and defensively. The difference may come down to goaltending. Last time the teams met, Corey Crawford was replaced by Scott Darling, who helped the Blackhawks win that series. This time around Crawford should be better. Pekka Rinne is the question mark, as his play has decreased over the years. It's a close one, but I can see the Blackhawks eeking it out in a long series. Chicago in seven.
(C2) Minnesota Wild vs. (C3) St. Louis Blues
Minnesota seems like the favourite and it's not too hard to see why. They have a more balanced attack and Devan Dubynk is pretty solid in goal (despite a recent sputter). Bruce Boudreau is also a damn good coach (just might want to avoid seven game series). St. Louis is a little more top heavy on the attack, led by Vladimir Tarasenko. The Blues are coming into the playoffs on a hot streak, so they have a bit of momentum. Still, the Wild look to be the better team, and I'm still not completely sold on Jake Allen backstopping the Blues to playoff success. Minnesota in six.
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (W1) Calgary Flames
Talk about home advantage, the Flames haven't won in Anaheim since 2004. Despite this, Calgary has a team that can cause a few upsets. Led offensively by Johnny Gaudreau, rolling the 3M line, and having one of the best defense core in the league, Calgary should be poised for playoff success. Anaheim is still Anaheim though, and they are a pretty solid team. Ryan Getzlaf can still put up the points, Ryan Kesler looks to be regaining his form from years ago, and they also have a pretty good defense core. Despite the Flames having an edge in net (I like Brian Elliot over John Gibson), it seems like Calgary is still a year away from being a serious contender, while the Ducks Cup window is still open, even though it's a sliver. Anaheim in six.
(P2) Edmonton Oilers vs. (P3) San Jose Sharks
I guess all those first overall picks finally paid off, as the Oilers are back in the playoffs for the first time since their Cup run 2006. They will be in tough, as they face last year's finalist, the Sharks. Edmonton is lead by Connor McDavid and...well mostly McDavid (ok, Leon Draisaitl has been good as well). Cam Tablot has had a decent season in net for the Oilers. San Jose is still San Jose, with guys like Joe Thronton, Brent Burns, Joe Pavelski, and Logan Couture leading the way. The Sharks also have the better goalie in Martin Jones. Edmonton will get a few in the series, but San Jose will end up the winner. San Jose in six
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 1
The playoffs start tonight with five games on the docket. Here is our predictions for who will win the first round. Previews will be out tomorrow.
Eastern Conference
(A1) Montreal Canadiens vs. (W1) New York Rangers
Brad: Montreal Canadiens
MDK: Montreal Canadiens
(A2) Ottawa Senators vs. (A3) Boston Bruins
Brad: Boston Bruins
MDK: Ottawa Senators
(M1) Washington Capitals vs. (W2) Toronto Maple Leafs
Brad: Washington Capitals
MDK: Toronto Maple Leafs
(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (M3) Columbus Blue Jackets
Brad: Pittsburgh Penguins
MDK: Pittsburgh Penguins
Western Conference
(C1) Chicago Blackhawks vs. (W2) Nashville Predators
Brad: Chicago Blackhawks
MDK: Nashville Predators
(C2) Minnesota Wild vs. (C3) St. Louis Blues
Brad: Minnesota Wild
MDK: Minnesota Wild
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (W1) Calgary Flames
Brad: Anaheim Ducks
MDK: Calgary Flames
(P2) Edmonton Oilers vs. (P3) San Jose Sharks
Brad: San Jose Sharks
MDK: Edmonton Oilers
Monday, March 6, 2017
Recapping (Most) of the 2017 Trade Deadline
It's been a while (damn this thing called "studying"!), and the trade deadline just past, so why not say something about a couple of trades. Not all trades, as this deadline lacked in names getting traded. Also, since some of the bigger trades happen, lets start a week prior and work up to March 1st.
To Pittsburgh: Ron Hainsey
To Carolina: Danny Kristo, 2017 2nd-round pick
Analysis: Pittsburgh needed defense as they have half their normal blue line out, and Carolina does have defensemen. The veteran Hainsey should provide good cover while the Pens defense heals. The Hurricanes get Kristo, who is one again on the move in the AHL, and a 2nd-rounder.
To Anaheim: Patrik Eaves
To Dallas: 2017 2nd-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: One of the bigger moves of the deadline, Patrick Eaves gets traded to Anaheim for a 2nd-round (it becomes a 1st if the Ducks make the conference finals and Eaves plays 50% of playoff games). Eaves provides additional scoring for the Ducks, while the Stars reap the benefit of the career year Eaves is having.
To Los Angeles: Ben Bishop, 2017 5th round pick
To Tampa Bay: Peter Budaj, Erik Cernak, 2017 7th-round pick, 2017 pick (conditional)
Analysis: What are the Kings thinking?!?! Budaj has been pretty good in Quick's absence, and could have served as the backup. The Kings instead traded for Bishop, who is a good goalie, but having a down year. The Kings also get a 5th round pick. The Lightning shed salary (which may not have much effect outside of overages, as Bishop was a UFA after this year), and get Budaj to be backup and Cernak as a prospect. The Lightning also get a 7th-round pick and a conditional pick which can turn into a second.
To Minnesota: Martin Hanzel, Ryan White, 2017 4th round pick
To Arizona: Grayson Downing, 2017 1st-round pick, 2018 2nd-round pick, 2019 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: It's easy to go back-and-forth on this deal. Hanzel probably was overpaid for, but he did seem to be highly-coveted, so getting him out of reach for other teams is a good idea. The Wild are also a good team, and would want to bolster up for a long playoff run. Ryan White and a 4th also go to the Wild. Arizona continues with their rebuild, getting a prospect in Downing, and picks galore.
To Arizona: Teemu Pulkkinen
To Minnesota: Future considerations
Analysis: So...couldn't add Pulkkinen in the deal you guys made the day before?
To Toronto: Brian Boyle
To Tampa Bay: Byron Froese, 2017 2nd-round pick
Analysis: It seems like Boyle was destined for Toronto for a while, and now it's happened. The centre will bolster the Leafs depth down the middle. Lightning get Froese, who is expected to contribute for their AHL team, and a 2nd-round pick in this year's draft.
To Montreal: Jordie Benn
To Dallas: Greg Pateryn, 2017 4th-round pick
Analysis: Well, at least Pateryn's girlfriend will be happy, as I don't think there are many french people in Dallas. It's a depth deal for both teams.
To Ottawa: Alexandre Burrows
To Vancouver: Jonathan Dahlen
Analysis: Uh, what happened here? Ottawa trades for a 35-year old Burrows (and give him an extension) and gives up a Swedish prospect who's being compared to Filip Forsberg. When did the Canucks get smart?
To Washington: Kevin Shattenkirk, Pheonix Copley
To St. Louis: Zach Sanford, Brad Malone, 2017 1st-round pick, 2019 2nd-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: Ladies and Gentlemen, your 2017 Trade Deadline Champions, the Washington Capitals. Yes, the Capitals land the big fish, getting Shattenkirk to help lead the attack from the blue line. Pheonix Copley also heads back to Washington, after going to the Blues in the T.J. Oshie trade. The Blues didn't get much regarding players, as Sanford and Malone aren't likely to be more than depth guys. They get a 1st and a conditional second, which was gloriously explained by Jay Baruchel. As an aside, I'd love to be the person in the NHL office taking the trade calls, just to hear both GM's explain each condition (assuming that's how trade calls work).
To New York R: Brendan Smith
To Detroit: 2017 3rd round pick, 2018 2nd-round pick
Analysis: So someone was sour that they lost out on Shattenkirk. This definitely feels like an overpay on the Rangers part. Granted, Smith will bolster their blue line. Meanwhile, the Red Wings get picks to gear up for the inevitable re-build/re-tool/re-whattheheckever.
To Chicago: Johnny Oduya
To Dallas: Mark McNeill, 2017 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: It's the annual "Welcome Back" trade Chicago makes. This year, Oduya comes back and will likely pair with Hjalmarsson. Going to the Stars is an AHL center and a conditional pick.
To Montreal: Brandon Davidson
To Edmonton: David Desharnais
Analysis: DESHARNAIS GOT TRADED! NO MORE FOXHOLE! Sorry, sorry. Desharnais goes to Edmonton, and will provide depth at forward. Davidson goes to Montreal, in their everlasting quest to collect all the undervalued defensemen.
To San Jose: Jannik Hansen
To Vancouver: Nikolay Goldobin, 2017 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: This deal makes sense as is, with San Jose improving up front now in return for a prospect and a pick. Goldobin should turn out to be a pretty good player for the Canucks in the future. The pick is interesting, as it goes from a 4th to a 1st if the Sharks win the Cup. A lot of people in Vancouver just became Sharks fans.
To Montreal: Steve Ott
To Detroit: 2018 6th-round pick
Analysis: Every damn time I think Bergevin knows what he's doing, he goes out and does a trade like this. But hey, who needs scoring when you can get sandpaper! Thankfully it's just a 6th, could have been worse.
To Florida: Thomas Vanek
To Detroit: Dylan McIlrath, 2017 3rd-round pick
Analysis: The Red Wings keep collecting picks, getting a 3rd rounder and someone on defence in exchange for Vanek. The Austrian forward should provide an offensive boost for a Florida team that looks to make a deep run in the playoffs.
To Montreal: Dwight King
To Los Angeles: 2018 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: It's a travesty that the guy named "King" is traded away from the "Kings". Besides that, good depth move from the Habs, and at a reasonable cost.
To Los Angeles: Jarome Iginla
To Colorado: 2018 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: The Kings get Iginla for what could be nothing. Seriously, if they don't make the playoffs or re-sign him, that 4th disappears. Age has caught up to Iginla, but the Kings are a good fit for him, and he's back with Darryl Sutter. It would be nice to see Iginla get one more shot at the cup.
To Montreal: Andreas Martinsen
To Colorado: Sven Andrighetto
Analysis: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! *cries forever*
...
...
...
*deep breath* Ok, I'll go on. It's sad to see a player you'd like for a while get traded away. Andrighetto is bound to get a better chance to show is skill with the Avalanche. The Habs get another guy who is size and not much else. For the heck of it, here's a picture of Andrighetto in his QMJHL days with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.
To Philadelphia: Valtteri Filppula, 2017 4th-round pick (from Tampa Bay), 2017 7th-round pick (conditional) (from Tampa Bay)
To Tampa Bay: 2018 4th-round pick (from Pittsburgh)
To Pittsburgh: Mark Streit
Analysis: Might as well combine trades, as this is as close as this league will get to a three-way trade. Philadelphia get a body back for trading Streit, and a couple of picks. Tampa Bay only get a 4th after everything, but they open up plenty of cap room for re-signing their younger players. Pittsburgh gets another defenseman to cover for their injuries.
To Nashville: P.A. Parenteau
To New Jersey: 2017 6th-round pick
Analysis: So is Parenteau's goal to play with every team? Nashville will be his 6th team since leaving the Islanders in 2011-12 (and one of those teams was the Islanders, who waived him before this season). He'll provide some offense for the Predators, while the Devil settle for a 6th-round pick.
To Calgary: Curtis Lazar, Mike Kostka
To Ottawa: Jyrki Jokipakka, 2017 2nd-round pick
Analysis: Lazar was a guy that looked to need a change of scenery, and Calgary might be a good place, as he'll fit in with their young forward core. Credit to Ottawa for creating the 2nd-round value for him, and reducing a contract by throwing in Koskta. Fun-sounding name guy Jokipakka should boost Ottawa's depth as defense a bit.
To Toronto: Eric Fehr, Steve Oleksy, 2017 4th-round pick
To Pittsburgh: Frank Corrado
Analysis: Poor Corrado, can't get ice time with the Leafs, then is traded to a team that already traded for two defenders. Its hard to imagine he'll see increased playing time (unless its in the AHL...which he was sent down to). Oleksy (AHLer) and the 4th are ok, but the headliner is Fehr. While all he does for them currently is provide depth at forward, I do like the theory about the expansion draft. Not only does he fulfill the experience exposure requirement (need to expose 2 players who have played 40 games this year or 70 over the last 2), but being a former player of George McPhee, he could be the player picked from Toronto in the expansion draft.
To Boston: Drew Stafford
To Winnipeg: 2018 6th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: Last one, and the one everyone was surprise by, as Winnipeg actually made a trade. Stafford provides depth up front for Boston.
To Pittsburgh: Ron Hainsey
To Carolina: Danny Kristo, 2017 2nd-round pick
Analysis: Pittsburgh needed defense as they have half their normal blue line out, and Carolina does have defensemen. The veteran Hainsey should provide good cover while the Pens defense heals. The Hurricanes get Kristo, who is one again on the move in the AHL, and a 2nd-rounder.
To Anaheim: Patrik Eaves
To Dallas: 2017 2nd-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: One of the bigger moves of the deadline, Patrick Eaves gets traded to Anaheim for a 2nd-round (it becomes a 1st if the Ducks make the conference finals and Eaves plays 50% of playoff games). Eaves provides additional scoring for the Ducks, while the Stars reap the benefit of the career year Eaves is having.
To Los Angeles: Ben Bishop, 2017 5th round pick
To Tampa Bay: Peter Budaj, Erik Cernak, 2017 7th-round pick, 2017 pick (conditional)
Analysis: What are the Kings thinking?!?! Budaj has been pretty good in Quick's absence, and could have served as the backup. The Kings instead traded for Bishop, who is a good goalie, but having a down year. The Kings also get a 5th round pick. The Lightning shed salary (which may not have much effect outside of overages, as Bishop was a UFA after this year), and get Budaj to be backup and Cernak as a prospect. The Lightning also get a 7th-round pick and a conditional pick which can turn into a second.
To Minnesota: Martin Hanzel, Ryan White, 2017 4th round pick
To Arizona: Grayson Downing, 2017 1st-round pick, 2018 2nd-round pick, 2019 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: It's easy to go back-and-forth on this deal. Hanzel probably was overpaid for, but he did seem to be highly-coveted, so getting him out of reach for other teams is a good idea. The Wild are also a good team, and would want to bolster up for a long playoff run. Ryan White and a 4th also go to the Wild. Arizona continues with their rebuild, getting a prospect in Downing, and picks galore.
To Arizona: Teemu Pulkkinen
To Minnesota: Future considerations
Analysis: So...couldn't add Pulkkinen in the deal you guys made the day before?
To Toronto: Brian Boyle
To Tampa Bay: Byron Froese, 2017 2nd-round pick
Analysis: It seems like Boyle was destined for Toronto for a while, and now it's happened. The centre will bolster the Leafs depth down the middle. Lightning get Froese, who is expected to contribute for their AHL team, and a 2nd-round pick in this year's draft.
To Montreal: Jordie Benn
To Dallas: Greg Pateryn, 2017 4th-round pick
Analysis: Well, at least Pateryn's girlfriend will be happy, as I don't think there are many french people in Dallas. It's a depth deal for both teams.
To Ottawa: Alexandre Burrows
To Vancouver: Jonathan Dahlen
Analysis: Uh, what happened here? Ottawa trades for a 35-year old Burrows (and give him an extension) and gives up a Swedish prospect who's being compared to Filip Forsberg. When did the Canucks get smart?
To Washington: Kevin Shattenkirk, Pheonix Copley
To St. Louis: Zach Sanford, Brad Malone, 2017 1st-round pick, 2019 2nd-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: Ladies and Gentlemen, your 2017 Trade Deadline Champions, the Washington Capitals. Yes, the Capitals land the big fish, getting Shattenkirk to help lead the attack from the blue line. Pheonix Copley also heads back to Washington, after going to the Blues in the T.J. Oshie trade. The Blues didn't get much regarding players, as Sanford and Malone aren't likely to be more than depth guys. They get a 1st and a conditional second, which was gloriously explained by Jay Baruchel. As an aside, I'd love to be the person in the NHL office taking the trade calls, just to hear both GM's explain each condition (assuming that's how trade calls work).
To New York R: Brendan Smith
To Detroit: 2017 3rd round pick, 2018 2nd-round pick
Analysis: So someone was sour that they lost out on Shattenkirk. This definitely feels like an overpay on the Rangers part. Granted, Smith will bolster their blue line. Meanwhile, the Red Wings get picks to gear up for the inevitable re-build/re-tool/re-whattheheckever.
To Chicago: Johnny Oduya
To Dallas: Mark McNeill, 2017 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: It's the annual "Welcome Back" trade Chicago makes. This year, Oduya comes back and will likely pair with Hjalmarsson. Going to the Stars is an AHL center and a conditional pick.
To Montreal: Brandon Davidson
To Edmonton: David Desharnais
Analysis: DESHARNAIS GOT TRADED! NO MORE FOXHOLE! Sorry, sorry. Desharnais goes to Edmonton, and will provide depth at forward. Davidson goes to Montreal, in their everlasting quest to collect all the undervalued defensemen.
To San Jose: Jannik Hansen
To Vancouver: Nikolay Goldobin, 2017 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: This deal makes sense as is, with San Jose improving up front now in return for a prospect and a pick. Goldobin should turn out to be a pretty good player for the Canucks in the future. The pick is interesting, as it goes from a 4th to a 1st if the Sharks win the Cup. A lot of people in Vancouver just became Sharks fans.
To Montreal: Steve Ott
To Detroit: 2018 6th-round pick
Analysis: Every damn time I think Bergevin knows what he's doing, he goes out and does a trade like this. But hey, who needs scoring when you can get sandpaper! Thankfully it's just a 6th, could have been worse.
To Florida: Thomas Vanek
To Detroit: Dylan McIlrath, 2017 3rd-round pick
Analysis: The Red Wings keep collecting picks, getting a 3rd rounder and someone on defence in exchange for Vanek. The Austrian forward should provide an offensive boost for a Florida team that looks to make a deep run in the playoffs.
To Montreal: Dwight King
To Los Angeles: 2018 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: It's a travesty that the guy named "King" is traded away from the "Kings". Besides that, good depth move from the Habs, and at a reasonable cost.
To Los Angeles: Jarome Iginla
To Colorado: 2018 4th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: The Kings get Iginla for what could be nothing. Seriously, if they don't make the playoffs or re-sign him, that 4th disappears. Age has caught up to Iginla, but the Kings are a good fit for him, and he's back with Darryl Sutter. It would be nice to see Iginla get one more shot at the cup.
To Montreal: Andreas Martinsen
To Colorado: Sven Andrighetto
Analysis: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! *cries forever*
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*deep breath* Ok, I'll go on. It's sad to see a player you'd like for a while get traded away. Andrighetto is bound to get a better chance to show is skill with the Avalanche. The Habs get another guy who is size and not much else. For the heck of it, here's a picture of Andrighetto in his QMJHL days with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.
To Philadelphia: Valtteri Filppula, 2017 4th-round pick (from Tampa Bay), 2017 7th-round pick (conditional) (from Tampa Bay)
To Tampa Bay: 2018 4th-round pick (from Pittsburgh)
To Pittsburgh: Mark Streit
Analysis: Might as well combine trades, as this is as close as this league will get to a three-way trade. Philadelphia get a body back for trading Streit, and a couple of picks. Tampa Bay only get a 4th after everything, but they open up plenty of cap room for re-signing their younger players. Pittsburgh gets another defenseman to cover for their injuries.
To Nashville: P.A. Parenteau
To New Jersey: 2017 6th-round pick
Analysis: So is Parenteau's goal to play with every team? Nashville will be his 6th team since leaving the Islanders in 2011-12 (and one of those teams was the Islanders, who waived him before this season). He'll provide some offense for the Predators, while the Devil settle for a 6th-round pick.
To Calgary: Curtis Lazar, Mike Kostka
To Ottawa: Jyrki Jokipakka, 2017 2nd-round pick
Analysis: Lazar was a guy that looked to need a change of scenery, and Calgary might be a good place, as he'll fit in with their young forward core. Credit to Ottawa for creating the 2nd-round value for him, and reducing a contract by throwing in Koskta. Fun-sounding name guy Jokipakka should boost Ottawa's depth as defense a bit.
To Toronto: Eric Fehr, Steve Oleksy, 2017 4th-round pick
To Pittsburgh: Frank Corrado
Analysis: Poor Corrado, can't get ice time with the Leafs, then is traded to a team that already traded for two defenders. Its hard to imagine he'll see increased playing time (unless its in the AHL...which he was sent down to). Oleksy (AHLer) and the 4th are ok, but the headliner is Fehr. While all he does for them currently is provide depth at forward, I do like the theory about the expansion draft. Not only does he fulfill the experience exposure requirement (need to expose 2 players who have played 40 games this year or 70 over the last 2), but being a former player of George McPhee, he could be the player picked from Toronto in the expansion draft.
To Boston: Drew Stafford
To Winnipeg: 2018 6th-round pick (conditional)
Analysis: Last one, and the one everyone was surprise by, as Winnipeg actually made a trade. Stafford provides depth up front for Boston.
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