Week 2 Power Rankings
by Cuban
#1 Arizona 8-1 for week 2
Week 2 for the Coyotes started with a matchup vs NJ which was their only loss for the week. They bounced back nicely winning out and finishing the week at the top spot
Week 3 with only 2 games against winning opponents STL and Tor it seems to be a easy week for the best team in SP
Quick Hits:
Fwds- Tommy (70P 16GP) Fluri (55P 12GP) and Fish (61P 16GP) are scoring machines and have been giving opposing Goalies nightmares
Def- Iam-beanzy (34P 11GP) Xtracts07 (20P 10GP) are benefiting from the amazing play of those forwards
Goalie – Dophares and TopCheeseNeon statistically not put up strong numbers but in the ice they have been more than solid for this team and made timely saves when needed
#2 St. Louis 8-1 for week 2
With no drop off from week 1 STL had a great week 2. They settled in defensively and went to work this week allowing only 2 games with over 5 goals ( Sea W 7-5 and Ari L 6-4) the rest of their opponents had to really battle to find the net on this squad. They may be #2 this week but this team is very close to #1
Arizona and STL will be battling all season for the top spot
Week 3 sets up a matchup of the top 2 teams which could flip these two teams next week
Also their schedule for week 3 contains some other matchups against top teams such as Toronto and New Jersey and tough middle teams of NYI and MTL
If a early week loss to Arizona and maybe a Loss to one or both top East teams could spill into a hard week for this squad
Quick Hits:
Fwds- Talk about some scoring from Arizona St. Louis isn’t far behind
Kid (68P 16GP) PistolPete (67P 16GP) and XKonecny11X (50P 10GP) then sprinkle in cpenn (32P 6GP) and that’s a recipe for lots and lots of goals
Def- The pair of curtisx18x (18P 16GP) and ExE-_-53 (10P 13GP) have been obviously solid for this group
Goalie- Polar-1387 and Jeiel9876 have 13 total games between the two of them and Jeiel9876 posting the better record at 6-0 but this maybe the question mark for this team moving later into the season
#3 Toronto 7-2 for week 2
The Maple leafs are in the 3 spot after week 2 and these guys have been in close games versus the top teams and winning by the slimmest of margins BUT winning!!! (It’s not about the flash it’s about the W!!!!)
Week 2 was a bit easy for the Leafs with only one game against a winning opponent in NJ which they won. They dominated the rest of their opponents this week except for their two losses to FLA (5-0) and MTL (3-2)
Week 3 is big for Toronto with games against all the top teams in NJ STL and Arizona and if they win those games it will lead to a great week and some serious momentum for this team going into week 4
Quick Hits:
Fwds- GrammyHands (48P 10GP) and toslick (40P 10GP) carry the load for this team and add in contributions from Kakkox24x (27P 9GP) and shepard-88- (24P 7GP) they put enough goals up to get the job done
Def- Uberpwned_6969 (19P 10GP) and Sugarcoatz (12P 10GP) and shepard-88- (8P 7GP) are a perfect trio at the blue line making things as difficult as possible opposing teams
Goalie- one name says it all and is the driving force for this team
chadkillz134
#4 New Jersey 6-3 for week 2
After week 1 most were saying that this team will own the East but then week 2 happened and that’s why we play a full season. Week 2 started strong for NJ with a win against top Arizona (4-1) and then went on to finish the night at 3-0 to then go 3-3 the rest of the week with losses to Toronto, Montreal and Florida. NJ will need to clean it up for week 3 to make any moves in the rankings and separate themselves from the pack.
Week 3 will provide them opportunities with games versus Toronto and Montreal Monday and Friday they finish the week with games against St. Louis and Arizona.
Quick Hits:
Fwds- True (69P 18GP) and bstieboydp (48P 14GP) are among the top duos in SP this season. Now add in cHELIOS-7x (31P 9GP) NTyrrell14(23P 7GP) and MayhemX113 (17P 6GP) and there is plenty of able bodied that are able to put the luck in the net for these Devils
Def- The pair of DetAjax17 (17P 9GP) and Cuban (9P 15GP) have shown that they don’t look as good as they did 3years ago but they aren’t as bad as most thought either
Goalie- Arguably the best pick and steal of the draft in my opinion thrice01
He is carving a name for himself every night out. Definitely staking his claim for Rookie of the year and Goalie of the year
#5 Montreal 5-5 for week 2
Now I know everyone is going to wanna talk about this but Hey…these are week 2 power rankings and these guys had an amazing week 2
Now with El Rookie at the helm this long time vet has turned things around and if they keep this trend up they find themselves in the hunt come playoff time
As for their week they did struggle in losses to STL (9-1) ARI (12-6) and TOR (8-2) they did beat NJ (2-1) and avenged that loss to TOR with a win (3-2) They outplayed their lower ranked teams but they will need to build off those wins against NJ and Toronto if they want to compete the rest of the season
Week 3 hold matchups vs NJ STL ARI which wins against any of them plus the wins against the lower teams on the schedule could turn out to be another solid week for these guys and even if they lose all 3 and win out 6-3 is still a solid week by any teams standards (Except maybe ARI or STL)
Quick Hits:
Fwds- The scoring machine known as xHAC_Rambo (32P 10GP) is leading this group which consists of Xx_Kapanen_Xx (22P 10GP) and SE7ENTEE (22P 11GP) This group will need to build more chemistry in the weeks to come to be able to keep up with the higher scoring teams
Def- Royalkc85 and EL_R_O_O_K_I_E will look to also build some chemistry going forward with hopes to help their goalies out when playing those higher ranked teams
Goalie- KQ31 is solid in net but will definitely look for some more support from this team if they are to make any sort of push to the playoffs
#6 NYI 4-5 for week 2
These guys finished week 2 with a losing record but that doesn’t take away from how dangerous this team can be when they play that physical style of hockey. They struggled week 2 and didn’t play well in the games they should have won landing them in the 6 spot. Solid win against COL (3-1) but losses to NJ (5-2,7-6) TOR (8-3) MTL (4-3) and FL (4-2) set these boys back for the week
Week 3 they will need to come out strong to show they are a playoff team. They play all the top teams and even games against MTL and FL but if they stumble it will be a long fall with the rise of MTL and FL looming
Quick Hits:
This team is the SP version of the Broad Street Bullies. They will literally go after you the second you touch the puck
Fwds- Randymarsh2012 (92H 35P) Pfarrcyde23 (54H 40P) then you have Lo-Maximus (35P) these boys will take that puck and put it in the net faster than you can make your outlet pass
Def- Mpurch (80H 15P) and PghFANATIC (54H 11P) are proving to be a up and coming pair
Goalies- IceyAsylum23 and Eddie2708_ are paying the price for this teams aggressive style but they will need to stand on their heads in net to really make a push for this squad to be truly dangerous in the playoffs
#7 Colorado 4-5 for week 2
At the 7 spot are Plisk and his Avs
This team started week to with some potential but ultimately a 4-5 week lands these guys in the middle of the pack. With all 4 wins coming from lower teams PHI LA x2 CHI
Their losses to ARI x2 (5-2, 6-5) SEA (6-3) STL (6-2) NYI (3-1)
Week 3 for this team is a defining week with games versus all the top teams STL NJ TOR then sprinkle in NYI MTL FL and it can get ugly quick
Quick Hits: If there is one thing I spotted quickly about this team is depth.
Fwds- NJs-XCVI (51P 18GP) Whitetees41 (41P 13GP) Heedlessjem420 (21P 6GP) illbe_Backe (20P 7GP) as you see the top 2 guys are carrying the load for this lineup until illbe_Backe is up front which this could turn them into something to lookout for
Def- Teamrun420 (9P 12GP) SA_Pliskin (7P 8GP) captstalechips (4P 7GP) illbe_Backe (9P 6GP)
Teamrun seems to be the anchor here with a mixture of partners throughout the week. Definitely something to watch for as lack of chemistry later could be a issue
Goalie- ItsFatDino (10GP 74SV%) and SA_Pliskin (8GP 75SV%) have shared the duties here and are statistically average but with the right lineup out front could be lights out
#8 Florida 3-6 for week 2
Florida finds themselves in the 8 spot after 2 weeks. They came out flat early in the week with 4 losses in a row SEA, STL, MTL, NJ but finished Friday with 2 big wins in convincing fashion against TOR (5-0) NJ (5-2)
Now did Cook figure out his lineup going forward or was it just one good night of hockey for these guys? We will find out week 3 with games versus NYI TOR ARI STL. If they can gets some wins against these teams and they aren’t on the rise anymore. They are HERE! Lose them and any of the other games on the schedule and week 4 might turn into a fire sale
Quick Hits:
Gui (Guiskiii/waitxr-30P 8GP) and newly acquired Triix (LL_CHIEF2STEP_LL 28P 14GP) Are the top scorers and time will tell if they find more chemistry out on the ice
Note: (Name changes are stupid)
With added help from Dxrk9ness (23P 6GP) and I_am_bruce_lee69 (22P 9GP) and even add in Cook_Da_Monster with (15P 5GP) there should be more consistent lineup coming soon now with Triix added
Def- there is a mix of Fivestarcoock (how’s the weather in Chicago little bird?)
IceColdCaptain (9GP 6P) and eXecuti0n80 (7GP 6P)
Can’t say anything bad about this bunch but honestly a quite group so far but potential for more
Goalie- ROLLaBACKWOODS (6GP 74SV%) should see more time between the pipes as he is the best goalie currently rostered
Shootersteele19 (4GP 3-1 record) needs to play more to show he’s the better option
#9 Chicago 3-6 for week 2
This teams under performance is by far the biggest surprise thus far into the season. On paper they appeared to be a team to be reckoned with but so far they have not even come close to these expectations. Week 2 was rough for this squad losing 5 games versus top teams NJ (3-2) ARI (16-2, 8-6) STL (3-0, 8-3) but they did find wins against NYI (3-2) SEA (7-2) LA (6-4)
Week 3 has potential for these guys with a lot of winnable games early in the week before it gets tough at the end of the week. If they get some early chemistry against SEA LA MTL FL it could lead up to some wins when they face TOR or NJ later in the week
Quick Hits:
Fwds- Hype leads the team with (29P 10GP) followed by X-_-Pulver-_-X (25P 6GP) and
i9i-stamkos-i1ic (19P 8GP) rounds out the top scorers but Heroic_veil2 (12P 4GP) and Fialah (11P 3GP) have better points per game and maybe should see some more ice time
Def- Bostonbruins_4_ is a hitting machine that destroys anything that moves (92 hits) along with HoneyBakes (43 hits)
Rookie Dedstarks (23 hits) needs to pick up the pace ( just kidding Rook. Keep up the good work)
Goalie- in net Bmarche2001 (78.5SV%) and Spencer_Knight30 (75SV%) are doing what they can to keep this team in games
#10 Seattle 3-6 for week 2
Reapers team barely made it out of week 2 and except for wins against FL (7-2) LA (4-2) COL (6-3) this team did not perform to par when facing the higher teams with losses to TOR (6-3) STL (7-5) ARI (6-4) and then a loss to CHI (7-2) to top it off. Good thing for this team is there is always next week and week 3 gives them a chance to avenge that CHI loss and then put some pressure on teams like ARI NJ TOR but they also play risers MTL and FL which with losses to the top teams and to these other 2 could spell the end for this team
Quick Hits:
Fwds- As always Reapz2313 (17GP 43P) and LeCupidon (15GP 41P) are hoping that Yesc__ (8GP 25P) can be the missing link for them to create a top scoring lineup
Def- CaptCanada_ (13GP 11P) and X_beaster_x (10GP 8P) are managing the blue line for this team which I’m sure most of the time do a great job but need to put it together against the better teams moving forward
Goalie- Bufford80 (5GP 76.9SV%) and Matrikstl (5GP 71SV%) have shared the time in net and also spent some time on Defense with each playing another 5 games there when not in net. Don’t statically see anything bad with this pair other than a possible lack of consistency upfront from the fwds which hopefully was addressed with adding Yes
We will see
#11 LA 2-7 for week 2
With 2 wins PHI (4-3) SEA (2-1) this team was loss the rest of the week and except for a really bad game versus COL (12-1) they were competitive the rest of the games (losses by 2 or less goals in 5 games) and maybe a lucky bounce here or there and they’d sneak a couple wins out. Week 3 is not shaping up to be real promising with only games versus CHI and PHI looking as potential wins and then 7 games against top teams looking to make sure LA does not get that lucky bounce against them.
Quick Hits:
Not really going to get into too much statistically here just pure observation and opinion
The fwds don’t seem to have much chemistry there and Sports may be looking to build something there or just looking to finish the season with guys who want to play
Def is where Sports and his partner DrWally playing most of the games
Goalies SgtVandoos and Duckyy315 are just looking to do the best they can night in and night out while Sports looks to figure out this lineup up front
#12 Philadelphia 0-9 for week 2
This last place team is going through some changes and things may be looking up if the guys still on the roster build some chemistry
Week 2 did not show much promise and week 3 with games versus LA CHI SEA all which can be won and give this group a much needed shot of confidence and even toss in the we don’t care and we will ruin your week win against teams like MTL FL COL and they could end up with 4 wins
Quick hits:
Just want to shout out Sergein for taking the squad and hopefully you can turn things around for PEACEKEEPER500-
Also props to probablekoz for being the only guy still left from the draft on the team
So there you have it Cuban’s week 2 Power Rankings
Let the debate begin and obviously Mr. K.O.D may have put his hex on a few squads but hey what fun would it be if I just went down the standings and let that decide the ranks
Now on to week 3

click this link to see a very well written deep analysis by tommy,  The article below is also in this link, the statistical break down will not post properly on the site, please click the link to see this article in full.  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LXE6EYZ34T_9fIQweUXMjLcovwnsekUQBmUdI_zgYJU/edit
 
Let’s get into the team analysis:
Eastern Conference
Philadelphia Flyers (6th in East, 12th in the league) Z-Score: -15.806 (12th)
Fucking yikes…. Long time vet Peacekeeper is out, long time vet Sergein is in, after what I believe was an impressive draft, the Flyers are looking down in the dumps.  “This team’s success comes down to availability, it is the difference between a 20 win and 35 win season in my opinion.” (Man I’m a fortune teller)  After losing top picks Blades, DC, moving Cpenn for Buckley who’s been traded once prior to reaching PHI.  The team is on a 14 game losing streak, it is gonna take a lot of dedication and a lot more availability from remaining players on this roster.  1st overall pick seems like a decent goal for this team
Prediction: 9-34-2 (Tank)
Montreal Canadiens (5th in East, 10th in the league) Z-Score: -11.389 (11th)
So, Tripz couldn’t handle the heat so he upped and elected to quit, another vet stepped up, El Rookie is back! After an abysmal start to the season the Habs went 5-4 this week and are starting to show some promise. Rambo leads their forwards with 32 points in 10 Gps. Some other guys like Kap, 7tee, clark and viz will help fill out the line to make a decent core. Picking up RoyalKC from Philly is huge for this team, gives them a legit #1 dman (if his avail is decent). He will be partnered with Rook most likely, other than that the back 3 look scary, who is going to play G other than KQ? “Is 2 wins really a lot?” Thanks for proving me wrong.
Prediction: 21-20-4 (Bubble)
Florida Panthers (4th in East, 7th in the league) Z-score: -1.927 (8th)
Hey it’s a GM who didn’t change! After 2 mediocre weeks, Cook and the Panthers capped off his 3-6 week with 2 wins on Friday night only losing to New Jersey. Acquiring Chief2step (Triix) for Yesc is a deal that helps out his Panthers in the availability department which is what they really needed. Gui leads the team with points with 30 in 8 games, between him and Triix they can help lead this Panthers offence. Dark, bruce and cook will fill out this line, backend looking weak other than Execution, in net Rolla with a 2-4 record leads the team in GP and save% with a 74.7%.
Prediction: 22-21-2 (Bubble)
New York Islanders (3rd in East, 5th in the league) Z-score: 1.079 (6th)
Icey, I’m proud of you man the team is doing better than a lot of people expected. After having another average week at 4-5, the Islanders have a slight lead on 3rd spot in the East. The offence is led by Pfarrcyde who has an impressive 42 points in 12 games played, Randy and Lomax are also having good seasons up to this point. On defence Purch and PGH are also putting up rather impressive stats with both over 1ppg and 25+ takeaways. Eddie and Icey are both 4-4 with 72 save%, nothing to write home about but it’s doing the job.
Prediction: 21-20-4 (Bubble)
New Jersey Devils (2nd in East, 4th in league) Z-Score: 9.083 (2nd)
The Devils have been killing it this season, True and company are looking like favorites. With a 6-3 record on the week (losing to Toronto twice), they are right on the cusp on getting that top spot. True is leading the way with 69 in 18 games, that’s good enough for 2nd in the league, his supporting cast of Bstie, Chelios, Tyrell and Mayhem are all having great seasons. Backend of Ajax and cuban is shaping up to be one of the best in the league, Ajax has 17 points in 10 games, good enough for top 5 among dmen, Cuban with 42 takeaways and is also near the top in this stat. Thrice in net is having a vezzy caliber season as well, 11-4 with an 81% save%, everything seems to be working with this team.
Prediction: 33-10-2 (Contenders)
Toronto Maple Leafs (1st in East, 3rd in league) Z-score: 8.814 (3rd)
Speaking of teams that are killing it, how about them Leafs? Chad and company are looking to keep this great season going after going 7-2 although losing twice on Friday. My dear friend Grammy and toslick are shitting on the league both putting up over 4ppg. The depth on this team includes some question marks (rumour has it people quit, but idfk or trust anyone). Shep, kakko supply that depth and will fill out the rest of this forward line nicely. On defence, Uber and Sugar both over 1ppg, Uber top 5 in points (Chad dont be lazy take the extra screenshot and do the proper +/-). In net, Chad is a vezzy candidate (didn’t see that coming) with a 10-2 record with an over 80% save%.
Prediction: 34-8-3 (Contender)
Western Conference
Chicago Blackhawks (6th in the west, 11th in league) Z-score -4.137 (9th)
On paper the team looks respectable but in terms of playing, Hype’s team falls short going 2-7 this week,  Hypey’s backpack is looking roomy with 29 points in 10 games but the rest of the forward core is under performing. Defensively drop in hero BB4 looks basically invisible out there, Honeybaked has some respectable numbers tho. In net Spencer with a 4-3 record and 75% save% is just average.
Prediction: 12-29-4 (Tank)
Los Angeles Kings (5th in the west, 9th in league) Z-score -9.628 (10th)
The kings are currently on the outside of the playoffs looking in but they are in striking distance although they went 2-7 this week. Up top, NowYoDead leads the team with 22 points in 10 games, Dptickler and foosty, bert and poitrazz fill out the ugliest looking forward core in the league. Backend, DrWally is greatly under performing with only 1 point and a minus 20, in net Vandoos and Ducky both seem to be struggling. Yikes
Prediction: 14-26-5 (Tank)
Colorado Avalanche (4th in the west, 8th in league) Z-Score -1.132 (7th)
When I saw that Colorado is only 7-11 I was surprised, Pliskin’s squad is one that is definitely not talked about enough. The team went 4-5 this week which is an improvement from week 1, expect them to continue in this trend. NJ leads the team with 51 points in 18 games, whitetees also putting up a good season, Sean, heedless, backe and sickmotion will fill out the 3rd forward spot. Teamrun, plisk and backe have been holding down the fort on defence, Backe has a 1.5ppg in 6games and teamrun has 38 takeaways, enough to put him in the top 3. In net, Pliskin and Dino have quietly been a solid tandem with save % ‘s around 75%.
Prediction: 25-17-3 (Playoffs)
Seattle Kraken (3rd in west, 6th in league) Z-score 2.438 (6th)
RELEASE THE KRAKEN. The Kraken went 4-5 last week which is meh but they went 2-1 Friday night with newly acquired Yesc. Reapz and Cup both have 40+ in 17 and 16 games respectively, Yesc is going to play most games on that top line. On the backend Capt leads the team with 11 points and 33 takeaways in 13 games, 38 takeaways for Beaster puts both of them in the top 5 for this stat. In net, Buff and Matrik have average stats, nothing outstanding but are getting it done.
Prediction: 26-17-2 (Playoffs)
St. Louis Blues (2nd in west, 2nd in league) Z-score 7.711 (4th)
Sigh, yes Vis after many tries you finally put a good team together, congrats! After an amazing 8-1 week (losing to the Coyotes) hahahahahahahaha, they sit 2nd in the west and the league at an insane 15-3 record. Kid, Pete and Tkonency are all killing it with over 50+ points, Kid and Pete both sit in the top 5 in the league in terms of points. On the backend, Curtis leads the way with Norris-like numbers with 18 points in 15 games and 54 takeaways (1st in the league). Exe, Vis compliment him nicely, this team shows no signs of slowing down and will be contenders for that President trophy.
Prediction: 36-7-2 (Contenders)
Arizona Coyotes (1st in west, 1st in league) Z-score 14.894 (1st)
Feel like if I talk about my team I’m going to sound like an asshole so for everyone’s sake, I’ll let the stats speak for themselves.  (see the link at the top for stats and a full breakdown.)
 
Thanks for reading!
Tommy

Week 1 Review SPNHL SzN 38
Since nobody else will do anything while DD is gone ill go ahead and give it a shot. This is just a very biased opinion of what went down through the first nine games of the season.
Biggest disappointment- Florida Panthers With wins over MTL, a very depleted CHI team and a COL who still haven’t found their identity, it is safe to say they have had an underwhelming start. Yesc and gui still seem to have the capability to score that is still prevalent but as far keeping the puck out of their net it’s a disaster of a story. Giving up 4+ in all but one game. Rollabackwoods seems to be doing the best that he can but clearly its not enough and with that contract I don’t believe they can manage to do anything to help.
Biggest Surprise- St. Louis Blues Kudos to Vis for shaping up his team for the better. Pete and Polar have been good additions. From the start of the season looked like a middle of the road team seems to be in the upper tier for the time being. Games for them have been close for the most part and that’s always scary from week to week, so am I completely sold as of right now no. Let’s just say they go ahead and repeat what they did week one then they are for sure here to stay. The x factor to do that is start getting some consistent goal tending.
WE ARE WHO YOU THOUGHT WE WERE—New Jersey Devils With savy vets and decent goaltending the devils are exactly who we thought. Bstie and True legend manging the load making sure the put enough pucks in the net. Beating up on the bad teams and edging out the tougher teams, NJ is here to stay. AJax being one of the better d-mans in the league should keep the back line in check for the remainder of the season. This team will not be moving much in the standings from here on out.
WE ARE YOU THOUGHT WE WERE- Arizona Coyotes Contrary to Reapers beliefs if you are looking solely on talent you should have not been surprised where they sit on the standings. With the deepest roster in the league, they have shown nearly no cracks in the shield. With only one loss to STL in a game they dominated on the scoreboard they have not much to be upset about. With their defensive pairings seemingly unstoppable and the discord firing on all cylinders, it should be a smooth sailing to the playoffs as long as RICKYBOBBY stays in his lane.
Boys that will wrap it up for Week 1 if I have the desire to do it again next week ill try to grab some other teams for ya –FISH p.s. SLAP!

So, I put in a lot of work trying to put individual stats together for every roster player in the league using a spreadsheet. I am sad to tell everyone that the screenshots from the sheet will not work when posted to the site. If you’re interested in seeing your team or all teams let me know and I’ll show you my work (I’m pretty proud of it).  Shout out to everyone who tried to do media in the past, it is a ton of work and everyone appreciates it. If you don’t like what I said, prove me wrong and go do your own article, let’s get started.
 
Eastern Conference
Florida Panthers
 
Game 7 Line
LW: Waiter
C: Yesc__
RW: eXecution80
LD:  Cook_Da_Monster
RD: fivestarcoock
G: ShooterSteele19
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Cook_Da_Monster
Goals: Waiter
Assists: Yesc__
Points: Waiter
Dmen Points: Fivestarcoock
+/-: Waiter
Giveaways: Waiter
Takeaways: Cook_Da_Monster
Wins: ShooterSteele19
Save%: Dxrk9ness
 
Initial reaction to this squad is they have a lot of star power uptop with players like Gui and Yesc, Exe will fill out that top forward line.  Defensively they are one of the deeper teams in the league with guys like execution, fivestar, cook, ice cold and king. These guys are all proven vets in the league, Exe is a guy who may play both forward and defence.  In the crease, Shooter, Rolla and Dxrk (possibly) make a great tandem that will steal some games if need be.  The one question mark I see is offensive depth, if rookies like Dxrk, Brucelee can perform, this will be a team to look out for come playoffs
 
Status: Playoffs
 
Montreal Canadiens
 
Game 7 Line
LW: xHAC_Rambo
C: xxBert–
RW: EL_R_O_O_K_I_E
LD: tripZ504
RD: Matrikstl
G: JoshuaDuhaime
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: xHAC_Rambo
Goals: xHAC_Rambo
Assists: xxBert–
Points: xHAC_Rambo
Dmen Points: Matrikstl
+/-: No one gets better than -50
Giveaways: EL_R_O_O_K_I_E
Takeaways: tripZ504
Wins: Is 2 wins really a lot?
Save%: Polar-1387
 
Oh what could’ve been. With the first overall pick the Montreal Canadiens selected: PistolPete, however after pulling an Eric Lindros, he was shipped with fellow defence partner Curtis (we will look at them later).  Now, if I put a bunch of names on a dartboard then blindly threw darts at it, I would probably make a better looking squad than this one (sorry Tripz).  Let’s take a look at some positives about the team, a forward line of Bert, Kap and Rambo isn’t the worst thing in the world, on the backend tripz and matriks look to prove themselves.  In net, Polar is an SP vet with Vezina trophies to his name and Josh is coming off a Stanley cup with the Lightning.  The team’s depth is horrendous but they do have some players that can play multiple positions like Elrookie, Clark and beaster.
 
Status: Bust
 
New Jersey Devils
 
Game 7
LW: TrueLegend07
C: Chelios24x7
RW: bstieboydp
LD: Cuban1616
RD: DetAjax17
G: thrice01
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Truelegend07
Goals: TrueLegend07
Assists: bstieboydp
Points: TrueLegend07
Dmen Points: DetAjax17
+/-: DetAjax17
Giveaways: TrueLegend07
Takeaways: bstieboydp
Wins: thrice01
Save%: thrice01
 
Now, if this roster was assembled 3 years ago, look the fuck out SP, however this team in 2020 is still is one of the better ones assembled this season.  Offensively, True, chelios and Bstie make up a solid forward line that will score at will.  Defensively Cuban and norris candidate Ajax make a solid #1 d-pair that is reliable and will log some games for you.  Depth wise, NTyrrell in round 6 is a steal and is a great 4th forward, mayhem and dobbsy I don’t have any information on but I trust True’s choices.  In the crease he is rocking a rookie duo of thrice and Poehling, these sweaty Frenchies are going to help put this team over the edge.
 
Status: Contender
 
New York Islanders
 
Game 7
LW: Schmidty34_
C: Pfarrcyde23
RW: Lo-Maximus
LD: CastroNY516
RD: MPurch
G: Eddie2708_
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Lo-Maximus
Goals: Lo-Maximus
Assists: Lo-Maximus
Points: Lo-Maximus
Dmen Points: CastroNY516
+/-: Pfarrcyde23
Giveaways: Lo-Maximus
Takeaways: Lo-Maximus
Wins: Eddie2708_
Save%: Eddie2708_
 
Here’s the thing, I don’t hate how Icey drafted his team however, let’s see how long he keeps it together.  On offence, long time vet Lo-max plays with Pfarrcyde and Schmidty which looks like it can be an interesting line.  The depth for the forwards is actually pretty good, Randymarsh as a 4th forward is decent and Mason will be able to fulfill a backup role well.  In net, Eddie and Icey look to prove themselves, Eddie is coming off a fantastic season with the Red Wings and Icey might learn how to stop a puck instead of playing dodge ball. The asterisk next to this team is their defensive core, Castro, Coffee, Mpurch and PGH do not impress me at all, could very possibly be the worst group this season next to Montreal.  These forwards will have to put up 5+ goals a game just to get some wins.
 
Status: Bubble
 
Philadelphia Flyers
 
Game 7:
LW: ItsNotEzPz
C: cpenn4204
RW: Blades-l59l
LD: Royalkc85
RD: DCLightt
G: PEACEKEEPER500-
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Royalkc85
Goals: Blades-l59l
Assists: Blades-l59l
Points: Blades-l59l
Dmen Points: Royalkc85
+/-: DCLightt
Giveaways: cpenn4204
Takeaways: Royalkc85
Wins: PEACKEEPER500-
Save%: cpenn4204
 
First off, shout out to Peace for picking mostly rookies and making my job a little bit easier!  Peace had a very good draft, with his 2 first round picks he acquired rookies Blades and DC. If you don’t know who these studs are, you’ve been living under a rock and will find out soon.  Offensively Blades has slim pickens for wingers but he does have some decent rookies in Cpenn and SAK to play with. EzPz I don’t have a lot of information on but his SP and other league stats didn’t really wow me, long time vet Serg will fill in on both offence and defence interchangeably if I had to guess.  This d pair of Royal and DC will be gross, arguably the best in the league, junepon is a question mark for me, heard good things but never played with him.  In the crease Peace, koz and maybe cpenn make a weird looking group, Koz sucks dont @ me, Peace and cpenn are both very good though.  This team’s success comes down to availability, it is the difference between a 20 win and 35 win season in my opinion.
 
Status: Playoffs
 
Toronto Maple Leafs
 
Game 7:
LW: GrammyHands
C: xGrhymes
RW: toslick
LD: Uberpwned_6969
RD: shepard-88-
G: Chadkillz134
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Chadkillz134
Goals: toslick
Assists: GrammyHands
Points: toslick
Dmen Points: Uberpwned_6969
+/-: shepard-88-
Giveaways: toslick
Takeaways: GrammyHands
Wins: Chadkillz134
Save%: Chadkillz134
 
Man SP really needs a trade committee, everyone was distracted by the Pete/Curtis deal no one noticed Shepard got dealt to Toronto for a bag of potato chips.  Regardless, even without Shep, Chad built himself a beast team but now, they’re looking even better.  Offensively, stars like Toslick and Grammy are two of the most dynamic wingers in the league, xGrhymes will slot in nicely with them.  On the backend, Uber and Shep make another solid defensive pair in the East, both are very good and will make each other better.  Depth wise, I’m not really seeing any big names but Kakko will be able to fill on offence interchangeably, Devon although signed up as G can help out on Defence as well.  In net they’re all set with Chad, he’s proven to be the best in the league without a question, Devon and Kakko can also hold their own if needed.
 
Status: Contender
 
 
Western Conference
Arizona Coyotes
 
Game 7:
LW: Sendthemnoods
C: xToxiCBoY-_-
RW: Fishhure
LD: Iam_Beanzy
RD: Fluri37
G: Dophares2000
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Fluri37
Goals: Fishhure
Assists: xToxiCBoY-_- 😉
Points: xToxiCBoY-_- 😉
Dmen Points: Iam_Beanzy
+/-: Iam_Beanzy
Giveaways: Iam_Beanzy
Takeaways: Fluri37
Wins: Dophares2000
Save%: TopCheeseNeon
 
I mean, I’d like to think I had a good draft, definitely a few question marks surrounding the characters on my team but, if everything goes according to plan, I think we have legit shot at the cup. In my opinion I built the deepest roster in the league, if anyone thinks differently go write your own article.  These toxic yotes are gonna be on everyone’s shit list by the end of the season I can guarantee it.
 
Status: Contender
 
Chicago Blackhawks
 
Game 7
LW: Buckleyx18
C: i9i-stamkos-i1ic
RW: hypey-
LD: Honeybakes
RD: Bostonbruins_4_
G: Spencer_Knight30
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Bostonbruins_4_
Goals: hypey-
Assists:  i9i-stamkos-i1ic
Points: hypey-
Dmen Points: Bostonbruins_4_
+/-:  i9i-stamkos-i1ic
Giveaways: Bostonbruins_4_
Takeaways: i9i-stamkos-i1ic
Wins: Spencer_Knight30
Save%: Spencer_Knight30
 
Well, stam and hypey are back and hypey has gone and built himself another solid team.  Buckley with stamkos and hypey is a line to look out for, they will score goals and also play an amazing 200ft game.  This defence of Honeybakes and Bostonbruins is sketchy to me, I have no information on Honey but I trust Hypey’s choice. Bruins on the other hand, put up rather impressive numbers the past few seasons very quietly, I always viewed him as a drop-in hero but maybe I am missing something.  Depth wise they are flooded with rookies, Fialah, demy and nico all have played LG and put up respectful numbers, Dedstarks works just fine as a 3rd dman.  In the crease they have the man himself SpencerKnight, hopefully he doesn’t quit in playoffs games for the Hawks, Demy will serve as the backup and do it very well.
 
Status: Contender
 
Colorado Avalanche
 
Game 7
LW: Whitetees41
C: SA_Pliskin
RW: NJs-XCVI
LD: illbebacke
RD: teamrun420
G: itsfatdino
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: SA_Pliskin
Goals: Whitetees41
Assists: Whitetees41
Points: Whitetees41
Dmen Points: teamrun420
+/-: Whitetees41
Giveaways: Whitetees41
Takeaways: SA_Pliskin
Wins: itsfatdino
Save%: Dudnastyy
 
Alright, time to roast the boss and catch a ban.  First off, amazing trade to acquire Whitetees, after scoring over 100 goals 2 seasons ago this is the stud upfront Plisk chose to build his team around.  Unfortunately after that, I am not so impressed.  Whitetees NJ and Plisk look to fill out the top line.  Depth wise, Heedless, Backe and stxrto are all rookies who will get a shot to prove themselves to play on that top line.  Defensively Plisk has chosen multiple rookies (Backe, Six, Kmatt and stalechips) and long time sp vet Teamrun to fill out his d-core, after diving through some stats on the players, overall “meh”.  Dudnastyy and Dino in the crease also have some question marks surrounding them, Dud is a proven G in LG Dino however not so much.  One really good thing about this squad is Pliskin’s ability to play F, D and G, I can see him playing everywhere this season.  Let’s hope Tees has a big enough backpack.  (pliskin edit: nIn (o.o) nIn  )
 
Status: Bubble
 
Los Angeles Kings
 
Game 7
LW: DPtickler
C: SE7ENTEE
RW: NowYoDead
LD: OG_KJ-_-
RD: DrWally
G: SgtVandoos
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: DrWally
Goals: DPtickler
Assists: NowYoDead
Points: DPtickler
Dmen Points: DrWally
+/-: DrWally
Giveaways: NowYoDead
Takeaways: DrWally
Wins: SgtVandoos
Save%: Duckyy315
 
Well Sportyspice I’m not sure why you decided to run a team of 14 players but hey whatever floats your boat.  So you resign Shepard, then you draft 4 other defenders then trade Shep for absolute garbage, 1000 iq buddy, keep up the good work.    Let’s start with the backend, going up against all of 6’7 240 lbs of DrWally is gonna be a pain in the ass this season, he pairs next to KJ who will probably quit like he always does.  Owen actually fairs nicely as your number 3 dman with McAvoy and sports filling out the rest. I got a quote from Sports: “Side comment I think my team will be more defensive than offensive” NO KIDDING.  Up top you have proven defenseman in NowYoDead and DPtickler with SE7ENTEE (was acquired in Shep trade).  The wild last season won a 6 game playoff series only scoring 8 goals, that’s an average of 1.25 G/GP, this tactic will not work with Vandoos, Ducky and possibly Sports in the net.  Depth wise up front, this team has nothing to write home about, Joki had decent LG stats, other than that, very unimpressed.  If this team averages more than 2 goals a game I’ll be shocked.
 
Status: Bust
 
Seattle Kraken
 
Game 7
LW: Reapz2313
C: LL_CHIEF2STEP_LL
RW: Lecupidon
LD:XxDiiStOrTeDxX
RD: CaptCanada_
G: KQ31
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: Lecupidon/Reapz2313
Goals: Lecupidon
Assists: Lecupidon
Points: Lecupidon
Dmen Points: XxDiiStOrTeDxX
+/-: Reapz2313
Giveaways: Lecpuidon
Takeaways: Reapz2313
Wins: KQ31
Save%: Bufford80
 
Reap had yet another good draft, nothing new here.  Lecupidon and Reap picked Diirty Trix (AKA Chief2step) to be their center, I believe Trix has played with these boys in the past and will definitely be a top forward line this season.  Forward depth is quite lacking having only Fox as a registered forward as depth however, diistorted and buff could possibly fill in for the 3 games trix wont play.  On the backend Distorted and Capt make one of the weirdest looking pairings this season, not to knock diistorted but I don’t view him as a stud LD.  Capt on the other hand can hold her own,  she was a gem for my Jets last season and is a great defensive defenceman.  In the crease KQ, Buff and Phenom will split the duties, Buff was an absolute stud in the cup last season, KQ has some very respectable numbers with a career .779 save% and 2.83 GAA.  Expect a lot of goals from this squad.
 
Status: Playoffs
 
St. Louis Blues
 
Game 7:
LW: bluedevil631
C: KIDMON3Y
RW: XKonecny11X
LD: PistolPete7788_
RD: curtisx18x
G: jeiel9876
 
Statistic Leader Predictions:
Games Played: PistolPete7788_
Goals: bluedevil631
Assists: KIDMON3Y
Points: KIDMON3Y
Dmen Points: PistolPetet7788_
+/-: bluedevil631
Giveaways: PistolPete7788_
Takeaways: curtisx18x
Wins: jeiel9876
Save%: jeiel9876
 
So here’s the thing, I was so ready to roast and pick apart Visibilty’s team but he did okay.  Other than his pointless shenanigans prior to the draft, he was able to field a decent looking team.  Up top Bluedevil and Kid look kinda lonely but they have guys like Konecny, Pete or even Vis who will jump up and fill in as a forward.  Defensively they are very deep, Pete, Curtis, exe, headcase, vis makeup probably the deepest defensive core in the league (holy shit I’m complimenting Vis).  In net Jeiel doesn’t have impressive stats but I know he can play, Bruh will serve as the backup, don’t know much about him.  This team is 1 Center away from being dangerous.  Although I always give you shit, you did well Vis.
 
Status: Playoffs
 
Standings Prediction:
Western Conference

• Arizona Coyotes 😉
• Chicago Blackhawks
• Seattle Kraken
• Louis Blues
• Colorado Avalanche
• Los Angeles Kings

Eastern Conference

• Toronto Maple Leafs
• New Jersey Devils
• Philadelphia Flyers
• Florida Panthers
• New York Islanders
• Montreal Canadiens

 
Individual Awards Candidates:
Jack Adams: xToxiCBoy-_- ;), hypey-, Chadkillz134
Hart: Lecupidon, Waiter, Whitetees41
Conn Smythe: i9i-stamkos-i1ic, Truelegend07, Chadkillz134
Selke: i9i-stamkos-i1ic, Reapz2313, Fluri37
Clancy: SA_Pliskin, WheelChairDevon8, Media team
Bill Masteron: tripZ504, Sportsgeek5, IceyAsylum23
Lady Byng: Truelegend07, Reapz2313, Yesc__
Maurice Richard: Lecupidon, Whitetees41, toslick
Art Ross: Lecupidon, Reapz2313, hypey-
Norris: DetAjax17, BostonBruins_4_, Iam_Beanzy
Vezina Trophy: Chadkillz134, Chadkillz134, Chadkillz134  (plisk edit: HA HA HA love this)
Jennings: Chadkillz134, Spencer_Knight30, Dophares2000
NHL +/-: Reapz2313, hypey-, Truelegend07
Calder: Blades-l59l, DCLightt, thrice01
 
GM Stanley Cup Appearance Predictions (Anonymous):
Arizona: 4 (1 picked to win)
Chicago: 4 (3 picked to win)
Colorado: 2 (2 picked to win)
Florida: 1 (0 picked to win)
Los Angeles: 0
Montreal: 0
New Jersey: 3 (1 picked to win)
New York: 0
Philadelphia: 4 (1 picked to win)
Seattle: 1 (1 picked to win)
St. Louis: 0
Toronto: 3 (2 picked to win)
 

Welcome to the first SPNHL season for NHL 21.  we are very excited to see how the new game effects our league and team strategies.  Please join us to watch the draft live  by clicking right here .
The draft can also be witnessed by watching the GMs make each selection as it happens by joining us on your discord draft channel by clicking here
Finally the the best place to enjoy this seasons draft is to view our live coverage on twitch.  Watch Kozmo, reapz, bufford and cookieman discuss the draft with numerous guests.
https://www.twitch.tv/probablekoz

SPNHL friends
I would like to thank everyone over my great seasons in SPNHL from the start way back in season 8. The past 2 season definitely been a roller coaster from missing the draft and having a very disappointing season to say the least to absolutely turning it around and finishing the president trophy winner then onto winning the Stanley Cup with an amazing group of guys. I would first and formally like to thank the man in charge of league SA_PLISKIN he gave me numerous opportunities to run teams in the league to assisting him back in the beginning the man is an absolute class act. I commend him for all his hard work the years of keeping the league going and the success he has running the league for many seasons.
This season was by far the most entertaining and exciting to be part of. From the 1st round battle against the NJD taking most games to OT or a 1 goal game. such an absolutely thrilling series. the 2nd being the Flyers which was a highly anticipated series of the 2 best teams in the east. 6 games that could of went either way I loved watching most of that series. The finals was everything I excepted it to be, strong defensive minded and carrying out for 7 games. anything else would have been disappointing.
I want to especially thank every single one of my guys this season for making it such a great success. This was by far my most favorite team to manage of them all, every guy on this team was great in whatever role we need to fill. Whether it be from a starter or to a role player. I thank them all every step of way for their efforts and realizing what their role was either from day one or from joining us by a trade.
I9I-Stamkos-I1I this was my 1st overall pick and he lived up to for the first puck drop to the finally horn . Hands down the best 2 way center I’ve had the privilege to watch play the position.
Hypey my work horse. Played great all season whether it be on the wing or at center to fill in. Always in the right spot at the right time to make a play or finish a play off. couldn’t have ask for more positive guy.
bluedevil631 what more can I say about the guy. He showed up and raised the team to another level. His play was relentless and wonderful to watch scoring some big goals. a great guy and teammate from start to finish.
Dbs one of my 2 shutdown dman all season. The man was assist machine, always found the open guy or was there to pick off pass when needed. A great teammate always positive and up beat I couldn’t of asked for more respectful player.
shootersteele19 was excellent all season in any role I asked of him whether it be filling in on wing or in net where he carried most of the season. His pre game talks will be missed.
X-Z3tt3rbergzz-x came up clutch in games when we needed it. From TC to making roster. he had a big hand in the NJD series by giving us the kick we needed in the end lol.
JoshuaDuhaime filled in amazing this season and was also a big reason we got past the NJD. Couldn’t have asked anything less of this player.
XxDiiStOrTeDxX another great role player that made clutch plays every game, especially throughout the playoff run. At time he was a little much in chat but on the ice his play was amazing. (Minus the back pass in game 3 on a breakaway :rofl:)
PistolPete7788_ the final piece of the team. I couldn’t of done it without his help, from stats, lines, trades and being a great leader when the time came. His play on the ice throughout the season was fun to watch. From coming just of the century mark as defenceman to the clutch performance in the playoffs. But most of all after last season horrible start and having to trade him away to this season of having him the whole way and winning a cup along side him was a pleasure.
I’m grateful for my time in the SPNHL but it’s time to step away and enjoy sometime away from the game. I want to thank all those who I have met over the past few seasons . The media team that did amazing job all season with the shows each week and to Dirty-Dietrich with his write ups. A great job by this man. Thank you to my Tampa Bay Lightning on my 1st cup in the league and I wish the league nothing but great success in upcoming seasons.
Bufford80 aka buff aka buffy

SPNHL players and staff,
Hats off to everyone after an incredibly competitive season in both conferences – what a remarkable mix of talent. A special shout-out to the Devils, Flyers, and Jets for challenging our Lightning with the sweatiest, most palpitation-inducing playoff I’ve ever experienced. Any of these teams could’ve won it, and all were full of deserving players.
After a full calendar year off, I returned to the league with the hope of winning with my buddy and SPNHL Media legend, Dirty-Dietrich. The draft didn’t go our way, but I need to thank you for encouraging my return and congratulate you and the Oilers on a great season. Your resilience and success after draft night is completely unsurprising to me – you’re one of the best.
Winning with Dietrich wasn’t to be, but I couldn’t be more grateful to be sharing this with another old SP friend. As Bruins GM way back in 2017, Pete gave me my first opportunity to become a regular/top pairing defenseman in this league. Witnessing your offensive power and holding down your right side this season was truly an honour, and it feels entirely fitting that our first SP cup comes three years after we first united on the blue line. You’re a great player, person, and friend.
To the rest of the Lightning:
Bufford, you’re an incredibly supportive GM who always puts the team first. The environment here has been the least toxic and most welcoming I’ve ever seen in a league, which played a huge part in our ability to stay composed and come out on top. Thank you for your phenomenal play, and a special congrats for winning this thing after a rough S36. Worst to first, this is for you.
Stamkos, your no-bs, Mamba-like attitude makes everyone around you better. Your execution in every zone is flawless, and you kept the team honest through a mix of support and constructive criticism. I’ve learned a ton playing with you. Keep that dryer running.
Hypey, feeding you is easy af. You’re always in the right spot, we clicked with each other perfectly from game one, and you padded my assist line. Having a winger like you will elevate any defenseman – thanks for making me look good and for being such a fun locker room presence.
BlueDevil, you’re a man of few words but incredible talent. You’re quickly becoming one of the best finishers in the league and you deserve all of the draft hype that’s coming your way this offseason. You’re a perennial first rounder, what an amazing run.
ShooterSteele, you’re a character and a great goalie. You consistently stabilized the team and came up with those big saves when we needed them. I’ll miss our pre-game pump up chats.
Distorted, we didn’t play together a ton, but you were always on point serving as a swiss army knife on the wings. Not gonna lie, you’re a bit toxic in the community chat, but you’re a great team guy.
Zetterberg, you’re one of the most coachable teammates I’ve played with. You committed to finding a style that blended with the team, and you elevated your game in a huge way. Scoring for us in OT against NJ in a 7-6 game four win after being down 4-0 and 6-4 was a turning point for our team.
Josh, you have one of the best attitudes I’ve experienced in a league. Thanks for being so humble and competing so hard, no matter the result. Your work against NJ in games five and six was nothing short of remarkable.
Everyone contributed, everyone made mistakes, everyone picked each other up. That’s what great teams do. That’s what champions do.
With that, I’m hanging them up in SP. If you’re still reading this then we likely had some form of personal relationship, so thank you for the memories, healthy rivalries, and for dealing with my frequent trolling. Wishing you all the absolute best going forward, and wishing Pliskin and staff many successful seasons to come in ‘21 and beyond.
DBS

SPNHL, Season 37: Round 1 – Players of the Week
By: ProdigyToLegend
Welcome back to SPNHL Players of the Week, round 1 edition. Back from my little hiatus, round 1 of playoffs have passed and we are now down to four teams. The Bolts, Flyers, Jets and Wild. We had lots of fun games in round 1 with lots of spectacular play, but there were a select few players who stood out above the rest, and here they are.
Forwards:
xSilky93: 5 GP, 10 G, 11 A, 21 P, 4.2 PPG, +8, 61 GV, 10 TK.
Silky wins player of the week for round 1 amongst all forwards and this one wasn’t even a question. He led all forwards in round 1 in not only points, but points per game. With an even distribution goal scoring and passing, he helped his Flyers knock out the Detroit Red Wings. The Flyers will need the same type of production from Silky and I think he’s going to be up to the task.
Honorable Mentions:
i_Zinczy_i_TV: 5 GP, 10 G, 5 A, 15 P, 3.0 PPG, +4, 62 GV, 13 TK
Bunzy-62: 5 GP, 8 G, 11 A, 19 P, 3.8 PPG, +8, 70 GV, 10 TK.
Elfpha: 6 GP, 4 G, 12 A, 16 P, 2.7 PPG, +3, 82 GV, 18 TK.
Defence:
PistolPete7788_: 6 GP, 5 G, 6 A, 11 P, 1.8 PPG, +1, 47 GV, 9 TK
One of the best offensive performances I have ever seen among a defender in SP, Pete proves that he can do it in the playoffs as well. With 5 goals and 6 assists in round 1 for the Tampa Bay Lightning, Pete helped his team move on to the second round with his production. The Tampa Bay forwards may be the one getting all the attention from Phili, but Pete is going to chip in as well and he will also need some attention in order to be slowed down.
Honorable Mentions:
Yesc__: 4 GP, 0 G, 7 A, 7 P, 1.8 PPG, +9, 23 GV, 5 TK.
DudNastyy: 5 GP, 0 G, 7 A, 7 P, 1.4 PPG, +8, 18 GV, 15 TK.
Goalie:
chadkillz134: 5 GP, 4-1, .897 SV%, 1.40 GAA, 2 SO.
Chad put the team on his back and had an incredible performance in round 1, allowing under 2 goals per game and getting 2 shutouts along the way, in a 4-2 series victory over the Edmonton Oilers. The Wild will be facing their next test, the Winnipeg Jets, in round 2. If Chad is able to replicate his performance in round 1, the Jets are in for a world of trouble. If one player on the ice is going to steal any series, it’s going to be Chad.
Honorable Mention:
ciulla19: 6 GP, 2-4, .822 SV%, 1.33 GAA, 0 SO.

SPNHL, Season 37: Playoffs, Round One – “Two Thirds”
By: Dirty-Dietrich
 
We’re past the regular season, so now it’s time to break out the big guns. So, I’m gonna start doing these reviews about some of the albums that I love. I discussed doing reviews of new-wave albums at the beginning of the season, and while I’ve strayed from that concept a little bit, it’s time to go back to that genre. Let’s start off our playoff coverage by talking about one of the greatest albums to come from that genre: Tears for Fears’ 1985 triumph “Songs from the Big Chair”.
“Songs from the Big Chair” starts off with one of the band’s most well known hits in “Shout”, an incredibly creative tune with a catchy, sing-along chorus. While the middle section of the album contains international hits like “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” and “Mothers Talk”, the album really hits its stride in the closing three tracks. “Broken” is a prototypical new-wave song, while “Head Over Heels” showcases the band’s pop sensibilities, and “Listen” is a dreamy, experimental experience that boasts some of the most creative segments of this record. Is it an album that’s all over the place? Maybe. Is it an album that encapsulated how much you could do within the confines of this new and exciting style of music? Absolutely.
 
Two thirds of a team’s potential nine week season (6 weeks of the regular season, plus three weeks of playoffs) have concluded. That number is primarily written as 0.666 (THE NUMBERRRR OFFFF THE BEAST!), and the last week of the season has unfortunately eliminated 6 teams from contention. With that being said, I’d like to say thank you to the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Vegas Golden Knights, the Ottawa Senators, the San Jose Sharks, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Vancouver Canucks for making it to the end of the season. For a lot of these teams, they were at the bottom of the conference and/or league all season long, and it takes dedication to ride it out for the season.
With those six teams out of the way, eight teams remain as they look to win the Stanley Cup in the thirty-seventh season of the SPNHL. From the Eastern conference, we have the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Detroit Red Wings, the Philadelphia Flyers, and the New Jersey Devils. In the Western conference, we got the Winnipeg Jets, the Edmonton Oilers, the Minnesota Wild, and the Anaheim Ducks. The East has some of the best offensive lines in the league, while the West has some of the best defensive cores in the league. However, for a team to make it to the playoffs, they must be far from one dimensional.
I’m gonna change it up this season: we’re gonna look at each playoff series and I’ll give you my prediction. We’ll recap the two teams’ regular season performance, talk about their MVPs and X-factors, and discuss who has the advantage in offense, defense, and goaltending. From there, we’ll make an educated guess about the results of the series and ruffle some feathers. Sound good? Cool. Let’s get to it.
 
EASTERN CONFERENCE
 
Tampa Bay Lightning (1) vs. New Jersey Devils (4)
1. Tampa Bay Lightning.
Regular Season Record: 41-10-3.
Notable Stats: 282 goals for (2nd), 43.2% powerplay conversion (1st).
MVP: hypey- (108 goals for, second in the league).
X-Factor: PistolPete7788_ (led defenders in goals (30) and assists (68)).
4. New Jersey Devils.
Regular Season Record: 35-15-4.
Notable Stats: 241 goals for (4th), 34.9% powerplay conversion (5th).
MVP: TrueLegend07 (142 points, fifth in the league).
X-Factor: Pfarrcyde23 (2.5 points per game, sparked a massive turnaround in NJ).
Season Series: New Jersey won 3-2.
 
Offense: with the addition of Pfarrcyde23 to their line, TrueLegend07 and bstieboydp found their anchor and gave AAli-21 a new weapon to pass to. New Jersey also has better depth options (eye2797 and Imcensored55) than the Lightning, but when you only need to play backups one game a series, Tampa Bay will be running their incredible top line of hypey-, i9i-stamkos-i1ic, bluedevil631, PistolPete7788_ , and DodgesBlueShells for 6 games a series. The Bolts simply have the better top line. Advantage: Tampa Bay.
Defense and Goaltending: we’re gonna lump these two together to make my job easier. New Jersey has the aforementioned AAli-21 spearheading their breakout, and is usually paired with either DJ_DeaThSlapz85 or malf922 in front of Fivestarcoock. A respectable back-end, but one that isn’t as strong as the best defensive duo in the league in PistolPete7788_  and DodgesBlueShells. A duo with years of chemistry, they’ve thrived in front of Bufford80 and Shootersteele19, and they’ll give Tampa the defensive edge Advantage: Tampa Bay.
Everything Else: another shortcut perhaps, but I’m writing this and you aren’t, so piss off. Tampa bay has the special teams advantage, leading the league in powerplay conversion (43.2%) and penalty kill (83.9%). New Jersey may not have the best penalty kill, however, Tampa Bay has one thing against them, per my inside sources, and that’s composure. I feel that New Jersey has more experienced players who have played in these big games and know what it takes to get it done. Let’s see if the Devils can use that to their advantage this series. 
Advantage: New Jersey.
The Verdict: the Lightning’s lethal top line with some of the best forwards and defenders in the league is going to be too much for the Devils to overcome. Prediction: Lightning in 6.
 
Detroit Red Wings (2) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (3)
2. Detroit Red Wings.
Regular Season Record: 38-15-1.
Notable Stats: 328 goals for (1st), 57.1% penalty kill (14th).
MVP: LeCupidon (led the league in goals (110) and assists (135))
X-Factor: mjvoell4 (second on the team in points per game with 4.3).
3. Philadelphia Flyers.
Regular Season Record: 37-14-3.
Notable Stats: 126 goals against (1st), 37.5% powerplay conversion (3rd).
MVP: xSilky93 (led the Flyers in goals with 46).
X-Factor: DudNastyy (led the Flyers in assists (57) and points (94) between forward and defense).
Season Series: Philadelphia won 3-2.
 
Offense: the Flyers are ripe with offensive weapons throughout their roster, with a lethal top line of xSilky93, Bunzy-62, and Duchesne_x_10 and versatile players who can play forward and defense. However, Detroit comes to this series with the only two players to eclipse the 200 point mark this season in LeCupidon and Reapz2313. mjvoell4 and KIDMON3Y are the other two forwards who make up this team’s forward core, and any combination of those four give the Red Wings a good chance of winning the game. Advantage: Detroit.
Defense and Goaltending: Detroit has a very balanced back end, with a great offensive pairing in curtisx18x and Faaa_Kueue, and a defensive duo in Matrikstl and Dedstarks. Eddie2708_ and CapBan_Clark1999 are a solid goaltending tandem, but Philadelphia has Detroit beat in this category. With last season’s Vezina winner in Spencer_Knight30 and NHLBEAST- as his backup, they have a top tier goaltending duo that’s playing behind a Norris favourite in DudNastyy and his variety of reliable partners that include PXSTRNAK-_-, DUPERMAN13, and Yesc__. Advantage: Philadelphia.
Everything Else: Detroit has the composure and experience edge over Philadelphia, that’s for sure. The Red Wings have the better powerplay (capitalizing on 38.9% of their chances compared to the Flyers’ 37.5%), but their penalty kill is disastrous. Many people have criticized Detroit’s defensive efforts in the past, but the best defense is a good offense. However, when the Flyers have a good offense (197 goals for), a good defense, and something to prove, and they’re going to be too much of a match for the Red Wings. Advantage: Philadelphia.
The Verdict: Philadelphia may have trapped their way to the team they have now, but as long as they win the Cup, they don’t care. They’re on their way. Prediction: Philadelphia in 6.
 
WESTERN CONFERENCE
 
Winnipeg Jets (1) vs. Anaheim Ducks (4)
1. Winnipeg Jets.
Regular Season Record: 38-9-7.
Notable Stats: 141 goals against (3rd), 79.3% penalty kill (3rd).
MVP: Elfpha (46 goals for, 4.3 PPG, leads team in both).
X-Factor: ProdigyToLegend (led team in assists (57)).
4. Anaheim Ducks.
Regular Season Record: 30-22-1 (???).
Notable Stats: 73.7% penalty kill (3rd), 99 penalties (11th).
MVP: toslick (led team in goals (71) and assists (70)).
X-Factor: Fluri37 (62 goals and assists each, 4,3 PPG (led the team)).
Season Series: Winnipeg won 5-1.
 
Offense: toslick and Fluri37 have a ton of chemistry together, and bring out the best in anybody they play with, whether it be Dptickler, xSalda-, or SMOKESHOWJOE. They’ve got a good offensive core, but the Jets have them beat. They have (arguably) the best forward in the league in Elfpha (the former PBM_TroyJ), their leading scorer in Bartlett–98 (92 points), Boston’s MVP in i_Zinczy_i_TV, and scorers in BRANN-THE-MANN and Gallagher_11x. They can build the better top line between the two. Advantage: Winnipeg.
Defense and Goaltending: ExE-_-53 took over the team halfway through the season, and brought in NowYoDead to be his defensive partner. While angl3dangle_ can play defense, he will likely be the Ducks’ starting goalie in these playoffs. ProdigyToLegend has assembled a great defensive trio comprised of himself, CaptCanada_, and the dynamic and versatile ttommyboiii. Those three have exceeded expectations all season, and have provided support for Glachs and dophares2000, who have gotten better over time. Advantage: Winnipeg.
Everything Else: Anaheim definitely has the chemistry edge, with Fluri37 and NowYoDead winning the cup in Calgary last season, and having extended history with their teammates. They have as much championship experience, as the Jets players who have won the Cup are ProdigyToLegend, CaptCanada_, and Elfpha. However, the Jets are better in every statistical category than the Ducks, and in this amateur sports journalist’s opinions, are the overall better team. Advantage: Winnipeg.
The Verdict: I promise I’m not being salty because toslick torches us every time we play him. This is just numbers, and the numbers don’t lie. Prediction: Winnipeg in 5.
 
Edmonton Oilers (2) vs. Minnesota Wild (3)
2. Edmonton Oilers.
Regular Season Record: 40-12-2.
Notable Stats: 134 goals against (2nd), 76.5% penalty kill (4th).
MVP: JonFromEarth (led the team with 60 goals and 60 assists).
X-Factor: DeathClxwn (wanted to start playing defense, we haven’t lost a game since).
3. Minnesota Wild.
Regular Season Record: 29-18-7.
Notable Stats: 83.3% penalty kill (2nd), 143 goals against (4th).
MVP: chadkillz134 (led all goalies with 46 GP, had a 2.83 GAA with a .835% save percentage).
X-Factor: GrammyHands (the team’s highest scorer, averaged 2.9 PPG over his 42 GP).
Season Series: Edmonton won 4-2.
 
Offense: ugh. This is an easy one, I’m sorry Minnesota. Don’t get me wrong, GrammyHands is one of the best players and teammates in the league, and Beantwn_beatdwn and Heroic_veil2 can support him on a respectable top line. However, they’re squaring off against one of the best offensive cores in the West, spearheaded by JonFromEarth. With options on the wing including standout rookie Buckleyx18, versatile forwards in l9lTKJOSl8l and I, as well as II-C-_-O-_-W-II and fmoham6627, the Oilers have the better offense. Advantage: Edmonton.
Defense and Goaltending: Ciulla19 had the most wins out of any goalie this past season, winning 33 of his 41 games. Edmonton also has a deep defensive core to play in front of him, the weight of which has been carried by ChiefTrout and rharmer3, but also now employs DeathClxwn and Porteous1436. However, Minnesota has the most experienced defensive duo in shepard-88- and SNAKE_-_PLISSKIN, and the best goalie in the league in chadkillz134. This is a close one, but I’ll give the nod to the Wild. Advantage: Minnesota.
Everything Else: when it comes to playoff experience, Grammy has won multiple cups while DeathClxwn, ChiefTrout, and I have seen multiple Cup finals (I even won a cup in one of them!). We have a few combustible elements, but the Oilers have begun to cooperate after some inner conflicts. Aside from penalty kill, the Wild are subordinate to the Oilers in most statistical categories, and will unfortunately be the downfall of them in this series. Advantage: Edmonton.
The Verdict: I love Grammy, Sportsgeek, and Chad, but sorry guys, we’re out for blood. We’re looking to make a statement. See you tomorrow. Prediction: Edmonton in 5.
 
This is the beginning of the three most important weeks in the SPNHL. These next three weeks will test teams physically, mentally, and emotionally. How will teams respond to falling behind in a series early, or availability issues within their squad. Will they be able to adapt to teams’ different styles over the course of their series, or will they try to make their opponents play their kind of game. Will superstars live up to the hype, or will they fall flat when push comes to shove? Will underachievers step up to the plate and be their team’s MVP? So many of these questions will be answered over the course of the next three weeks.
Hopefully, we’ll get the show back up and running and Fluri, Pliskin, and I can bring you all of our hot takes (sometimes terrible takes, but we do what we can). You can catch these on SPNHL: Off the Ice live on https://twitch.tv/thespnhl_media, and it looks like it will traditionally be on Sunday nights going forward. If you miss it, you can always watch this episode and all of our older broadcasts by using the same link. You can also subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a show!
You know the drill: give it all, bust your ass, and try to bring the Cup home.
Good luck to all the teams this week, we’ll see you on the ice!
Cheers,
DD.
 

SPNHL, Season 37: Week Five – Players of the Week
By: ProdigyToLegend
 
Welcome back to SPNHL Players of the Week, week 5 edition. We’re on the last stretch of the season, the trade deadline has passed and every team has 1 week left to prepare for the playoffs. This season is wide open as a wide variety of teams can make their case for the cup. Trade deadline was relatively quiet with one big-ish trade, but other than that most teams stayed the same and in my opinion, a lot of teams have glaring weaknesses going into the playoffs. So it’s going to be interesting to see how teams try to fix it with their in house options. But anyways, in week 5, we had yet again a lot of scoring in this high scoring season and many players in contention for player of the week.
 
Forwards: 
LeCupidon: 9 GP, 23 G, 18 A, 41 P, 4.6 PPG, +16, 99 GV, 10 TK.
Cupidon had a goal scorer’s week, totaling 23 goals for the team to help them have a strong week for that final push into the playoffs. Adding 18 assists, him and reapz make for a potent duo going into the playoffs for teams in the East to try to handle. If these two can keep their momentum going into the playoffs, they are going to be a difficult duo to stop, and you add in the 3rd guy in MJ, good luck.
Honorable Mentions: 
vxWoytkiw8xv: 9 GP, 17 G, 20 A, 37 P, 4.1 PPG, +17, 118 GV, 16 TK.
hypey-: 8 GP, 21 G, 9 A, 30 P, 3.8 PPG, -3, 95 GV, 28 TK.
bstieboydp: 7 GP, 11 G, 17 A, 28 P, 4.0 PPG, +26, 65 GV, 23 TK.
 
Defence: 
AAli-21: 7 GP, 7 G, 10 A, 17 P, 2.4 PPG, +30, 74 GV, 16 TK
Ali puts up another great week, after getting an honorable mention last week. This time, he goes over the top and earns player of the week amongst defenders, putting up a goal per game and adding 10 assists along with it. He was a tremendous +30 and will be the leader of the defence for New Jersey going into the playoffs. NJ is going to need Ali to continue helping the offence and still shut down opposing teams to make a deep playoff run.
Honorable Mentions:
Bostonbruins_4_: 9 GP, 6 G, 12 A, 19 P, 2.1 PPG, +17, 33 GV, 30 TK.
DudNastyy: 4 GP, 2 G, 7 A, 9 P, 2.3 PPG, +13, 36 GV, 17 TK.
ProdigyToLegend: 7 GP, 0 G, 13 A, 13 P, 1.9 PPG, +14. 64 GV, 17 TK.
 
Goalie:
Ciulla19: 9 GP, 7-2, .816 SV%, 2.30 GAA, 1 SO.
Ciulla earns goaltender of the week with a strong 7-2 showing for the Edmonton Oilers. He had a .816 save percentage and only allowed about 2.3 goals per game this week. With performances like this, the Edmonton Oilers will be able to make a strong playoff run. Ciulla is going to need to be on top of his game to allow his team to do what they do best, which is just grind out wins.
Honorable Mention:
Eddie2708_: 9 GP, 6-3, .787 SV%, 3.3 GAA, 0 SO.
Chadkillz134: 6 GP, 2-4. .841 SV%, 2.8 GAA, 0 SO.
Dophares2000: 4 GP, 4-0, .889 SV%, 0.8 GAA, 0 SO.