GOLD DIVISION PREVIEW 2005/2006 BY TANNER RATTRAY

 

GRYPHONS (Last years record 8-14-9)

 Prediction  - 14-8/Gold Division Winner/3rd Round Playoff Boot

Best Moneyman Option - Heatley Assists/Gaborik Goals

WARNING - TOP 5 CUP-CONTENDER

After 3 dreadful seasons in a row, the Paik Gryphons look to turn things around in 2005/2006. Arguably the best drafting GM in SCHL history, GM Ryan Paik has used his lottery picks and late round snipes to put together the final pieces of the Snipers Cup puzzle. The Gryphons will see their first playoff birth since 2001, and chances are they will make some noise come playoff time.

Forwards (A+)

- Look for Heatley to form one of the NHL's deadliest duos with Jason Spezza in the nations Capital. A change in scenery will work wonders for the talented kid from Germany. A possible 100 point candidate. With a new NHL, coach Jaqcue Lemaire will take the reigns off his stud horse in Marian Gaborik. Gabby lit it up with fellow Slovaks Pavol Demitra and Marian Hossa for Dukla Trencin last year, and will pick up where he left off in Minnesota. Look for Gabby to hit the 40 goal mark for the first time.

- Prospal, Recchi, Ribeiro. Along with the Millionaires and Triads, this could be the best 3-4-5 punch in the entire league. Recchi will post his second straight 70 point season in Pittsburgh, and Prospals return to TBay will ressurrect his career. Ribeiro is turning out to be quite the player, a human highlight reel to say the least. Look for similar numbers as last year.

  - at the 6th forward slot, the Gryphons pulled another rabbit out of the hat with super rookie Thomas Vanek. In typical Gryphons fashion, they had the patience to draft a kid and wait the year on him. This guys going to be good folks, and his performance could make or break the Gryphons championship dream.

Defence (B-)

- Look for Niedermeyer to repeat last years performance in the Swamp. It might take a few games to get some chemistry going with his new team, but nce he does, he'll catch fire. Another player where a new NHL and new rules will benefit their game. 50+ in his sleep.

- After a dreadful year in the Island, look for the Hammer to regain his old 40 point form in Calgary.

- Dan Hamhuis is a guy that goes under the radar. This great, steady, rock of a defenceman will easily improve on his 26 points from 2004. A huge scorer in Jrs, and a great season of 51 points in the minors last year, look for the Gryphons 2nd "Hammer" to pump home 30+ points.

Goalie (A+)

- One of the best in the business in Tomas Voukoun folks. Nashville will suprrise many teams this year and could win their division, even over Detroit. Vokoun is a lock for 30 wins, and 40 is not out of the question. Did I mention he started 73 games in 2004? - Colorados starting goalie as an SCHL backup? Sick. Aebisher is a great weapon coming off the bench for this team. Look for him to jump in when the Avs have a 4 game week.

 
 

BARRACUDAS (Last years Record 7-13-2)

Prediction - 12-10/2nd in Gold/2nd Round Playoff Boot

Best Moneyman Option - Demitra Assists/Guerin Goals

Last year was a big step backwards for the Cudas organization. After a seemingly impossible trip to the 2nd round in their first year, the Cudas stumbled out of the blocks and missed the playoffs in 2003/2004. However, this year will be a different story, as mastermind GM Nathan Bellamy has put together a well balanced attack from top to bottom. In their third year, look for the Barracudas to have their best season yet. Bellamy fans have a reason to be excited this year.

Forwards (B)

- Solid moneymen in Demitra and Guerin. Guerin will usually get you 30-35 goals and 30 assists. Nothing great, but pretty consistent. Demitra on the other hand will have a huge year in the assists department. Feeding Frolov all year will be a thing of beauty, and his numbers will clearly benefit from it.

- Modano is a question mark at the 3rd forward slot. After a disappointing season in 2003/04, look for Modano to regain his old form and pump home 65-70 points. Modano still has electrifying speed so its just a matter of getting his confidence going. Risky situation, but the future Hall of Famer should prevail.

- Amonte will come in and help a terrible Calgary PP. Playing with Iggy and Langkow along with more ice time, should help Amonte back to the 60 point form of old.

- Holik, Roberts and York will be subbed in the 6th slot. If used correctly the Cudas will have no problem at this position. 3 nice options here.

Defence (B)

- Sergei Zubov is one of the best SCHL weapons on the blue line. Look for Zubov to get 50+ and gang up with Modano and Guerin for a lethal, 3 headed, Dallas attack. The first thing SCHL teams will do when playing the Cudas, is check how many times Dallas will be playing that week.

- Jovo plays a wreckless style which strikes fear into his boss, Nathan Bellamy. After an injury plagued 2003/04 season, Cudas management has asked Jovocop to settle down and strictly concentrate on offense. Jovo will regain his 40+ pt form in his sleep, if he stays healthy.

- Great draft selection in Robyn Regehr. His numbers have increased every year for the past 4.

The best defenceman on one of the leagues best teams, look for Regehr to hit the 30 point mark for the first time in his career. Ice Time = Points

- Grebeshkov is a highly touted prospect but is he ready to come off the bench for an injured player? Any injury to the D, could spell the end for the Cudas.

Goalie (B)

- Great insurance pickup in Dominek Hasek. Both Lalime and him should get similar numbers, but theres a slight chance Lalime could buckle in St.Loo. It wont be like Ottawa, he'll have to win some games by himself with a depleted Blues roster. Still, a pretty good regular season performer though, I'll give him credit where its due.

- Hasek, if healthy will get 30+ wins and a heap of shutouts. I think injuries will play a huge factor though, and Emery will get a fare share of games for the Sens. Even in Haseks last year as a Red Wing, he was plagued by the injury bug all season long, resulting in only 27 games played. That was 2 years ago, and now he's 40, you do the math.

- Miller could be the best one out of all three here. He's making a case as the Sabres starter after standing on his head all preseason.

 HORSES (Last Years record 11-10-1)

Prediction 11-11/3rd in Gold/2nd Round Playoff Exit

Best Moneyman Option Lemieux Assists/Yashin Goals

One of the teams that is not getting enough recognition this year is the Tarpan Horses. GM Chris Roy has worked hard this offseason to re-sign his older veterans. With new jerseys and a new "team first" mentality the Horses look to make some noise in 2005/06. Longtime Horse Captain Keith Tkachuk was already sent home for being out of shape, which goes to show you that this team truly means business. A healthy Mario and a leaner and meaner Tkachuk could lead this team to the promiseland. The odds are against them, but as we've seen before, anything is possible when you have Super Mario guding the ship.

Forwards (B)

 - Mario Lemieux's health will determine the fate of this franchise. As he goes, so do the Horses. When playing, Mario's output can take on a whole team by itself. The problem is, he's always hurt. With Tkachuks setback look for The Russian Bear to take over the goal duties for the Horses. After being awarded the C in Long Island, look for the Yashin of old to show his face again this year. He'll get 35-40 goals this year.

 - Leclair, the Prince, and Stumpel are sketchy 4-5-6 guys as theyve shown in years past. But this year will be a different story for Czerkawski, as he will be guaranteed a great centre to play with in Hogtown. 60 points would not surprise me at all, he's a gifted player when he wants to be. Stumpel and Leclair should be able to get 50 pts each at 5 and 6, and if Brule make the Blue Jackets, the Horses have a nice option coming off the bench. Great pickup he looks mint so far in preseason.

Defence (B+)

 - Very underated defensive unit here for the Horses. Tomas Kaberle's is Mr. Consistancy for the Horses franchise, and 40-50 points will be reached in his sleep.

- Modry could be Atlanta's number one Dman on a Power Play that will include the likes of Hossa,Kovalchuk and Savard. Points should come with ease once he earns the spot. Look for 35-40 from Modry.

 - Another player yet again that will benefit from a new NHL will be Lubomir Viznovsky. This small, crafty offensive dman will lead the way up the ice on the LA PP. Roenick, Frolov,Conroy, Demitra...he'll definately have his fare share of teammates to pass to. Injury's will be a concern though, but if healthy, he could easily reach the 40 point mark again.

Goalie (A+)

 - Awesome goalie in Marty Turco. Turco was very close to ending Martin Brodeurs reign of SCHL Vezinas late last year. A 30 win guarantee and a shutout monster, look for Turco to put the finishing touches on many teams this year. A serious threat in between the pipes.

 

HEARTBREAKERS (Last Years Record 9-11-2)

Prediction 11-11/4th in Gold/Wild Card Winner

Best Moneyman Option - Tanguay Assists/Lang Goals

Times have durastically changed in the legendary streets of Uptown. The Heartbreakers have lost their swagger, and will continue to slide this year. Credit Heartbreakers GM Tony Roy for realizing this mess, and putting together some deals and picks that will eventually help get this team back into its winning ways. This year will be the first "rebuilding" season in Heartbreakers history. Lets see how the story unfolds.

Forwards (C+)

 - One of the best young assistmen in the league in Alex Tanguay. He would have challenged for the Art Ross last year if it wasnt for his late season injury. Rumour has it he was flying at the Olympic cam in Whistler. Look for Tanguay to post huge numbers to solidify a Team Canada roster spot. 60 assists could happen. Robert lang will have to do as a goalman. He's not known for posting huge goal outputs, but the only real option as Bondra and Selanne are past their prime. The Heartbreakers will lose points at this position.

 - Stillman should post decent numbers in Carolina but dont expect another year like he had in TB. 55-60 Points should be popped with ease. Selanne might find his legs again in Anaheim, and Bondra could do well if he's put on the right line in Atlanta, but chances are they'll continue to slide as their careers are quickly coming to an end.

 - Hunter had a great rookie year and has a great set of hands for a big man. A nice young forward that will fill in nicely at the 6th spot. He should be able to nab 50 points again.

 - Awesome pickup in junior star Pouliot. Dont expect anything this year, but 2-3 years down the road, Uptown could have their next gem.

Defence (C+)

- Dan Boyle is quickly becoming one of the more exciting NHL dmen to watch. A PP quarterback on the highest scoring team in the league, is pretty much all you can ask for in an SCHL defenceman. 60 points wouldnt suprise me, I really like this guy.

 - Newly acquired Adrian Aucoin was a much needed asset on D, and in typical Heartbreaker fashion, they delivered. With Tuommo setting him up all year, look for Aucoins howie to find the back of the net regularly on the PP. An NHL ice time leader, he'll get his fare share just for being on the ice. Expect alot of goals but not many assists. I'd say 15 goals and 25 assists tops.

 - Adam Foote and Nathan Demspey will share the third slot this season. Foote could have a career year if hes allowed to join the rush at times. I'm not the biggest Dempsey fan, I dont see him getting anymore than 30 points. Look for Foote to beat out Dempsey for that starting role.

Goalie (B)

 - Pretty good goalies in Osgood and Esche...for now. Both teams are great no question in Philly and Detroit, but these teams have serious threats at the backup position. Manny Legace is a crowd favourite in Detroit and will be battling for that #1 role all season. Esche is in better shape than Osgood though, he proved his worth in the playoffs for Philly and had a strong showing at the World Cup. However, the Flyers have a diamond in the rough coming up in their system by the name of Anterro Niittymaki. As weve seen in years past, Philly goes through goalies like underwear.

 

Shrubdogs (Last Years Record 14-8)

Prediction - 8-14/5th in Gold/DNQ - Demotion to Silver

Best Moneyman Option - Spezza Assists/St.Louis Goals

Lost in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, vacationing Shrubdogs GM Adam Franson was recently located and helicoptered back to his office in Surrey, BC. It was too little too late for the Shrubbies, as they only had 1 week to get a plan together for the upcoming season. Now with a computer finally at hand, Adam has done his best to answer all the fan mail built up from the past month. If this is a sign of things to come, it could be a long season for the Shrubbies.

Forwards (A)

 - An absolutely wicked assortment of tasty studs on this roster. Look for Spezza to have a career year playing with Heatley and take over the assist man duties. He made a joke out of the AHL last year pumping home 117 points. At the goalman position, Marty St.Louis will have another monster year. Look for him to get 100 points and possibly 45-50 goals. 2 line passes are now legit and he had a healthy share of breakaways even before this rule was implemented. Awesome moneymen Adam.

 - Satan, Fedorov,Vyborny. Not bad at all. Satan and Yashin will light the lamp on the Island, and look for Fedorov to have a better year now that he's comfortable in Anaheim. Vyborny had a great year in Columbus and should find himself on a line with Nash at somepoint.

 - Afinigenov and Dvorak will sub in nicely at the 6th slot. Dvorak uses that nice Edmonton ice to his advanatage and Maxi-Pad will finally have the year we've been waiting for. Both should get 50-60 points.

Defence (D)

 - Brent Sopel as your #1 Dman is unacceptable. We all love "Sexy Sopes" but this is asking too much from him. He should be able to get 30-35 on the Island, but dont expect Canuck like numbers.

 - Scott Hannan is a great NHL defenceman. SJ is an up and coming team and Hannan will be on the ice more often than not, so the points will come. After playing in the World Cup and World Championships, just like Redden, look for Hannan to have a headstart on most of the players at the start of the season. He's really starting to come into his own so look out for a career year of 35 points from him. I really like this pick.

 - Jiri Slegr? I know his PPG wth Boston were good last year but Leetch will be the man there now. He should be a drop, not a starting Dman. As for Kuba he's shown small signs of promise over the years, so there is still hope. But then again, thats what they told Christopher Reeve.

Goalie (D)

 - I know Columbus is going to be alot better this year, but to rely on them for wins is way too much to ask for. Denis and Prusek will be lucky to get 30 wins combined, so acquring a starter in a trade would be the Shrubdogs best option.

 
SILVER DIVISION PREVIEWS 2005/2006
 - TANNER RATTRAY

 
 
 
TORNADOES
 
Prediction - 15-7/Division Winner/2nd Round Playoff Boot
 
Best Moneyman Option - Palffy Goals/Naslund Assists
 
Working with the 79ers brass for the past few years has definately catipulted Kevin Ma's GM awareness through the roof. After landing a job in Ma Bay as a full time GM, we will now get to witness his true hockey knowledge. I have a feeling the Tornado fans will be in for a real treat.
 
Forwards (B+)
 
 - Very scary moneymen. Huge points go to the Tornadoes and their draft day pouncing on Markus Naslund. Many new GM's were scared to gamble on the possible retiree, but Kevins confidence in his loyal Canuck paid off from the get go. Palffy, after 7 amazing seasons with Kilts, will carry the load for the Tornadoes this year. A great trade by the Tornadoes, as they bring in the slick scorer and dump the aging vet in Bill Guerin. Palffy on the Pittsburgh PP will cause nothing but an SCHL nightmare. Health will be a concern for Ziggy, as always, but a new look NHL has less wear and tear on a player of Palffys stature.
 - Lindros and Elmo are question marks due to their health. However, with Elmo reunited with Gomez, and the E train rolling in his hometown, their returns to old form would not be out of the ordinary for these 2.
- It looks as though Vasicek, Legwand, and Bell will be rotating in the 5th and 6th spots. This is really the only weakpoint I see on their roster. Legwand should do great in Nashville if he lands on a line with Kariya or Sullivan. Maybe this will be the year when he finally breaks out. Then again, how many times have you heard that. Bell and Vasicek will probably hit the 50 point mark this year for the first time. Both play on garbage teams so dont expect anything great.
 - Great pickup in Parise, but we'll have to wait till next year until he does anything extraordinary.
 
Defence (A+)
 
 - One of the best threesomes in the league. Redden always is a steady eddy at the blue line, and could enjoy a career high this year. Playing at the World Cup and Worlds kept his legs in shape, so he'll be ready to rock right from game 1.
 - Schneider is one of the most underated Dmen in SCHL history. Always putting up huge numbers and such a threat on the Detroit PP. Although hes getting up there in age, he's showing no signs of slowing down. Kronwall might take the odd point away, but he'll still pot 40-50 points.
 - Ninimaa has struggled to get going on the Island. After many years as an Edmonton QB, he finds himself in full charge of the Isles this year. With Hamrlik gone, look for Ninnimaa to bounce back to his old form. He's still young yet.
 
Goalie (A+)
 
 - Luongo will do nothing but shine for a new look Panthers club. Better D, more experienced forwards, and a first class coach in Jacque Martin will help Luongo hit the 30 win barrier for the first time. Always a shutout threat, Roberto will strike fear into his SCHL opponents, week in and week out.
 
 
 
TRIADS
 
Prediction 13-9/2nd in Silver/First Round Playoff Boot
 
Best Moneyman Option - Bertuzzi Assists/Kovalev Goals
 
After 7 long years managing numerous minor league teams, GM Dave Lee is ready to make his mark in the pro ranks. His experience has already paid huge dividends for this new franchise, all you have to do is look at his roster to see the results. With some dispersal draft thefts on forward, and a draft day smorgasboard on D, it will be nothing but high expectations for the Triads, in their inaugaral year.
 
Forwards (A+)
 
 - if used correctly, the Triads could quite possibly have the best forwards in the league. Alot will be riding on the performance of Todd Bertuzzi. Which Todd will show up? The one from 2003/2004, or the one from the year prior? I have a feeling the SCHL will be in for a nasty surprise when they see Bertuzzis game this year. I know Im scared, are you?
 - With Bertuzzi a smart choice on assists, Kovalev will have to pick up where he left off in the playoffs of '04. A one man wrecking crew, look for Alexei to find the back of the net numerous times in Montreal. Theyre going to love him there.
 - Doan, Datsyuk, and Oniell as the 3-4-5 guys. That my friends is what you call depth. After threating to play in Russia, look for Datsyuk to silence his haters. Doan is the man in the desert, and Oniells game will elevate in his home blue and whites. Nothing but talent on this roster.
 - Look for Kobasew to fill in as the 6th forward. After a huge year in the minors, he could reach the 50 point mark. A huge bonus for the Crushers if he breaks out.
 
Defence (A+)
 
 - Rob Blake will put up huge numbers on the Colorado PP. Always a lock for huge numbers. Look for 50+.
 - Marek Zidlicky, a draft day steal at the 7th spot. Theres no way he should have slipped that far down. Great pickup here, and another possible 50 point guy along with Rob Blake.
 - Liles and Souray will rotate through in the third slot. Nobody in the league has such an option quite like this. Great drafting yet again by these Lee Triads.
 
Goaltending (C-)
 
 - A close to perfect roster, and the Triads go out and get lazy with their goalies. A tale all too familiar with many GM's across this league. 
 - JS Giguere will have a tough time adapting without his Stay Puff costume, and the injury prone Sean Burke is the NHL's version of Kurt Warner. Why do people continue to think these guys are still good? Heck, at least Warner won 2 rings. Burke stinks and he's injury prone to boot. Look for him and Jon Grahme to split 50/50.
 
 
 
 
 
 
JOKERS
 
Predictions - 11-11/3rd in Silver/DNQ
 
Best Moneyman Options - Murray Goals/Sakic Assists
 
After taking a low key approach into the offseason, Jokers GM Roy Bornmann has seemed to finally come out of his shell , and show people what wheeling and dealing is all about. Great moves to bring in Sakic, Richards and Elkman. A nice blend of both young and old could lead this team into a playoff birth. It will take some time for Bornmann to get a feel, but watch out when he does. This team has the ability to do some damage.
 
Forwards (B+)
 
 - Sakic and Murray will be up there with the best of them at the moneyman position. Sakic is Sakic, and could gobble up all the points with Forsberg not around. 90+ could happen easily. 
 - Murray is a big bruiser that refuses to be knocked off the puck and 40+ goals could be reached. They might be ugly, but every goal counts.
 - Underated depth guys on this team. If Straka and Daze are healthy, the Jokers will be a threat. Straka will be reunited with Jagr in Manhattan, and Daze has been the best goal scorer in Chicago for years. Peca in Edmonton will be asked to play an offensive role, and Johnson will sub in nice at the 6th spot with Kozlov, Elkman and rookie Mike Richards, who is lighting it up in the preseason.
 
Defence (C-)
 
 - Lidstrom is still one of the best around. Like Pronger, his numbers will inflate due to the new era of the 2 line pass.
 - Sydor, Salo and McGillis round off the dmen. If this problem isnt addressed soon, the Jokers could be in danger of missing the playoffs their first year. Lidstrom though could be able to sneak them in on his own., but still, a risky situation for the first time club.
 
Goalie (B)
 
 - The Bulin wall wont be on a better team than he was last year, but chance are he'll see more ice as the Hawks dont have the luxury of a good backup. Look for similar numbers to his totals in 2003/2004 because of this reason.
 - Great pickup in Emery. A great season with the baby Sens last year has landed him in Ottawa as the backup. Look for him to get a fare share of games and develop, due to Haseks ongoing groin problems.
 
 
BEHEMOTHS
 
Prediction - 9-12/4rth in Silver/DNQ
 
Best Moneyman Option - Gonchar Assists/Arnott switch to Hedjuk goals
 
Forwards (C)
 
 - When Hejduks healthy, he lights the lamp with the best of them. Until then look for Arnott in Dallas to take over the goaltime duties when the season begins. Points will be lost here to start the season.
 - Morrison plays on one of the best lines in hockey and always puts up great numbers. Another guy where a new NHL could benefit his game of speed. Look for an all time high of 80+ for Morrison this year.
  - Comrie struggled to get going when he arrived in Phoenicx, but with loads of offensive players to line up with in the desert, Comrie might just be able to have a career year. Having the great One as a coach could help his offensive confidence. 55-60 points should be reached.
 - Rucinksy and Whitney will fill in great at 5 and 6. Rucinksy playing with Jagr is a good thing, and Whitney on a crappy team is as well. The little man always puts up great numbers in the small markets.
 
Defence (A)
 
 - Gonchar on the Pittsburgh PP with Crosby,Lemieux,Palffy, Recchi is just insane. The sky is the limit for Sergei's point total. If the NHL sticks with their plans and calls all these penalties early in the season, look for Gonchar to rack up 55-60 assists.
 - Tarnstrms numbers could drop this year with the arrival of Gonchar. I see Recchi and Gonchar on the first unit and Tarny manning the 2nd. Still, 40 points should be notched, but dont expect anything extraordinary.
 - Brewers time ran out in Edmonton. A great defensive defenceman whos numbers have never really been great. He's shown brief stints of brilliance on offence, but then goes into hibernation for months at a time. Still, a great player at all times on the defensive side of things, so minutes will never be out of the question. A fresh start in St.Loo will have Brewer getting 30+ points.
 
Goalie (B)
 
 - As much as everyone hates Dan Cloutier, I must admit, poolwise he's pretty damn good. He'll be a lock for 30 wins so the Behemoths definately ave a threat between the pipes.
 - Great pickup in Alex Auld. Although he struggled in the minors last year, this kid has got what it takes.
 
 
 
ASSASSINS
 
Prediction - 9-12/5th in Silver/Demotion to Bronze
 
Best Moneyman Option - Havlat Goals/Langkow Assists
 
After drafting a gorgeous team poised for a Cup run, rookie GM Sean Moran decided to yank the plug on his dispersal day masterpiece. A move questioned by many critics, the new look Assassins  set out to prove themselves to the rest of the league in 2005/2006. 
OUT are the older proven veterans in Mike Modano, Mats Sundin, Brian Rafalski, Bryan McCabe, and Curtis Joseph. IN are a new wave, of quite possibly the best collection of young talent in all of the SCHL. They own the rights Jeff Carter, Patrice Bergeron, and Andrew Raycroft. 3 huge building blocks for the future of this franchise, which definately looks very bright for years to come. This year however could be a long one for the first year club, as the loss of Patrik Elias to hepatitis A will be too much to make up for.
 
Forwards (C+)
 
 - Havlat on goals isnt great but will do just fine filling in for team captain Patrik Elias. Good pickup in Daymond Langkow who should enjoy a career year playing with the best player in hockey, Jarome Iginla. Look for 20 goals and 45 assists from Langkow. if Amonte plays on that line as well, 50 assists could very well happen.
 - Great job at the draft picking up Modin, Carter and Bergeron. Modin could very well be the snipe of the draft and could crack 60 points this year. Carter is pencilled in to start the year with Forsberg and Patrice Bergeron is on the verge of being one of the next superstars. Before you disagree, lets not forget here, he was born in 1985.
 - It looks as though Parrish and Williams will be sharing the 6th forward duties all year long.Theres a good chance though, that Williams will have a breakout season and end this battle very quickly.
 
Defence (B+)
 
  - Consistent studs in Kim Johnsson and Kimmo Timmonen. Both these guys are a lock for 40+ points. Two great teams in Philly and Nasvhille, Assassins fans will be treated to some great hockey.
 - Oleg Tverdovsky is still a question mark for me. A real flake here on D, and a constant threat to head back to Russia at anytime. If there was a deal to be made this should have been the guy to go, not Rafalski. As a 2-time 50 point man, Oleg still has the potential to reach his old form, especially with some wide open ice this year. However, I dont see anything close to that happening in Carolina.
 
Goalie (B)
 
 - Ater a brilliant draft day move by the Tycoons moving up and selecting Mikko Kipprusoff, Assassins GM Sean Moran was then forced to select his Beantown netminder Andrew Raycroft. A great young goalie, with a Calder Trophy already to his name, the Razor has already come out and publicly stated that he should have been the #1 goalie selected in the 2005 draft. lets keep our eye on the Kippo vs Razor matchup, it could be a good one.
 - Slick GM'ing in bringing in Tivoinnen.This highly touted prospect will prove to be great insurance in the long, 80 game grind of the NHL schedule. A veteran move by GM Sean Moran.

Bronze Division Preview 2005/2006
 - TANNER RATTRAY

 
Brahmas - (Last years record 3-18-1)
 
2005 Prediction - 12-10/Division Winner/1st Round Playoff Boot
 
Best Moneyman Option - Sundin/Assists, Shanahan/Goals
 
Great work in bringing in a new atmosphere, new jerseys, new logo, new arena.... brilliance. The dreadful losing tradition of this Mickey Mouse franchise, might just come to an end this year. Just remember Daryl to keep your mouth shut, so karma doesnt bite your hairy little ass.
 
Forwards (B-)
 
 - Nice, proven studs here... Sundin, Shanahan, Roenick, Zherdev, Yzerman, Arnason.
 - Zubrus, Horton, and Bonk should be able to fill in nicely if used correctly off the bench.
 - Look for Zherdev and Horton to have breakout years. Both have the skills to make a serious impact on the NHL. Especially Zherdev, whos stickhandling skills are equal to Pavel Datsyuks' of Detroit.
 
Defence (C+)
 
 - McCabe is a hogtown monster, definately in the upper class of SCHL Dmen.
 - Kubina, solid 35 point man on a high-scoring TB team. Could enjoy his first ever 40 pt season.
 - Numminen should do well with a fresh start in Buffalo. Has the ability to notch 40, but 30 is more likely due to age.
 - Jackman should contribute as the Pens #3 offensive dman. If Tarnstrom or Gonchar go down to injuries, his point totals will skyrocket. Until that happens, I'd say he's a 30 point guy.
 
Goalie (C+)
 
 - Nice 2 Man rotation in Cujo and Biron. Cujo should get his fare share of games in Phoenix, and Martin Biron will start the season as Buffalos starter. However, Ryan Miller has proven himself in the minor ranks and might push Biron for the starting role midway through the season. A trade could be a possibility, but in the mean time the Brahmas GM will have to sub goalies accordingly.
 
 
 
 
Tycoons - (Last Years record 8-14)
 
2005 Prediction  - 11-11/2nd in Bronze/DNQ
 
Best Moneyman Option - Pronger/Assists, Ryder/Goals
 
GM Blake Johnston has put together a brilliant offseason in order to get this once, mighty feared franchise back on its feet again. Trading #68 away to a longtime rival, was clearly the toughest decision Blake Johnston has ever had to make, but clearly the right decision at that. Picking up building blocks in Ovechkin, Ryder, Kippo and Kronwall will jumpstart this team into the playoffs in no time. Maybe this year, but most likely the following season.
 
Forwards (C)
 
 - Koivu, Sturm, Hecht and Ryder will lead the way for this young pack of hungry wolves.
 - Hemsky, Ovechkin, and Fedotenko are question marks, but all have the talent to light the lamp at a rapid rate this year. Look for Ovvy and Hemmy to get over 60 points each. The future looks bright for this nice young crop.
 
Defence (C)
 
 - Chris Pronger, the most valuable Dman in the SCHL. His long, precise, outlet passes are without a doubt the best in the game. Without a red line this year, he should be a lock for a career high of 50+ assists.
 - Niklas Kronwall was a great pickup, but is still a year away from contributing solid numbers.
 - Alexei Zhitnik should be able to notch 35 or so on the Long Island. He only has Ninnimaa and Sopel to compete with for first line PP duty.
 - Its a make or break season for the 4 year project of David Tanabe. Look for a breakout season of 30+ points for this free wheeling dman. A new look NHL should benefit his blazing speed.
 
Goalie (A)
 
 - A genius of a trade enabled the Tycoons to move up in the draft and select the showstopper Mikka Kiprosoff. Finally, after many years, the Tycoons have solved their goalie mess. Kippo will be a shutout threat and a lock for 30 wins on an up and coming Flames team.
 
 
 
Regime - (Last years Record 7-15)
 
2005 Prediction - 8-14/3rd in Bronze/DNQ
 
Best Moneyman Option - Ruutu/Assists, Jokinen/Goals
 
GM Brian Denroche has put together a youthful masterpiece of sexy young snipes. Ruutu, Perry, Brown, Johnson and Ryan will put up bigtime numbers in years to come. For now though, NHL veterans Oli Jokinen, Brian Rafalski, Brad Stuart and Jocelyn Thibault will have to lead the charge. Super sophomore Tuommo Ruutuu, could be the difference if this team wants to contend for the division crown. 
 
Forwards (C-)
 
 - Jokinen and Ruutu are the meat and potatoes of this lineup.Look for Ruutu to net between 40-45 assists, and Jokinen should easily pop 30+ goals in.
 - Big dropoff after the top two. Zednik, Cole, Cheechoo, and Reinprecht should be getting 60, but always seem to hover around the 40-50 point range.
 - After another concussion in preseason, it looks as though Patrik Stefans days are numbered in Poco.
 
Defence (B)
 
 - Great pickup in proven stud Brian Rafalski. With Niedermeyer now out of the swamp, Rafalski will now be the #1 Dman. Way to fill in that hole on D Brian.
 - Brad Stuart is a young PP specialist on an up and coming team. Just entering his prime years, Stuart could enjoy his best season yet.

 - Pronger is now out of St. Louis, so that leaves Eric Brewer as the only real competition for Barret Jackman. Look for Barret to log huge minutes this year and find somewhat of his old junior scoring touch. He should be able to register 30+ points.

 
 
Goalie (C-)
 
 - Thibault will carry most of the load for Pittsburgh this year, but watch out for Fleury getting hot at times. If he does, there could be numerous stretches where Thibault wont see any action. A backup goalie would have been a smart move on draft day, but the Regime failed to deliver.
 
 
 
Coyotes (Last Years Record 8-11-3)
 
2005 Prediction 6-16/4th in Bronze/DNQ
 
Best Moneyman Option - Frolov/Goals, Lecavalier Assists
 
The Coyotes picked up great future stars in Dion Phaneuf and Ryan Getzlaf. Both players have had great preseasons and are a lock to make their respective clubs come October 5th. This season is an interesting one for the Coyotes, as they have many young players poised for breakout seasons. Frolov, Staal and Lecavalier will decide where this team wants to place this year. In other news, newcomer Matthieu Garon will now be the go to guy in the pipes, a move that has been stirring up some controversy around the league.
 
Forwards - (C+)
 
 - Frolov and Lecavalier will provide the knockout blows for this club. Look for Frolov to net 35+ goals and Lecavalier should finally hit the 50 assist mark on a TB team that really enjoys scoring goals.
 - Newy and Zhammer will contribute some much needed veteran help. 55+ points is attainable.
 - Look for Staal to be the man in Carolina. After a quiet rookie season, it looks as though he is ready for that next step into first line status and leahue-wide recognition.
 
Defence - (F)
 
 -  Phaneuf will be awesome in 2-3 years no question, but for now he'll net 25-30 points. Still, a solid pickup at the draft and stardom is just around the corner for this young buck. He could be the next Rob Blake.
 
 - Andrei Markov will be play on Montreals 2nd PP unit. Look for Kovalev and Souray to man the point on the first. With some luck, Markov could register over 30 points.
 
 - Ehrhoff/Hutchinson/Lydman?....Griffin will be in for a long season starting these guys in the third slot. Im guessing Ehrhoff will carry most of the load, notching 25-30 points.
 
Goalie - (C)
 
 - Kolzig should be able to rebound after his worst year as a pro in 2003/2004. The Capitals wont win many games, but Kolzig will get hs hare of W's.
 - It looks as though Garon will be the man in tinseltown. A highly touted prospect for many years in the Canadiens system, garon will finally get his chance to shine as a #1 goalie. However, look for AHL legend Jason Labarbera to challlange for that role.
 - If used properly, the Coyotes shouldnt have any real problems between the pipes in 2005.
 
 
Screamin Jawas - (Last Years Record - 4-14-4)
 
2005 Prediction - 5-17/5th in Bronze/DNQ
 
Best Moneyman Option - Nagy/Goals, Gagne/Assists
 
I'll have to give the Jawas some credit for their plans. It looks as though trading Ovechkin for Malkin could pay off in the long run of the SCHL. Evgeny Malkin and Anze Kopitar, picked up via trade in the Crosby draft, will both be solid contributors for years to come. Especially Malkin, who could line up alongside Sidney Crosby for the next 10 years and form one of the most feared duos in the league. In waiting a year for these gems to come across seas, the Jawas will now better their chances in the Phil Kessel sweepstakes. If they are able to land Kessel, this team will move up to the Silver division in no time. For now, they will have to tough out an extremely long season.
 
Forwards (D)
 
 - No real moneymen on this list of forwards. Look for Gagne and Nagy to get the call for a quick fix until next year. Gagnes numbers could inflate playing with Forsie, and Nagy was destined for a breakout year last year until the injury bug bit.
 - Dumont could get 60 playing with Briere and Vanek all year.
 - The Sedins could also reach 60 as they now have a winger that can fill the net.
 - Bouchard and Hudler are question marks in the 5th and 6th spots. We'll see what happens.
 
Defence (C+)
 
 - All these Dmen are very similar. Young, fast and oozing offensive point production.
 - Pitkanen if healthy, will reach the 35-40 point mark.
 - Leopold now has more than just Iginla to pass to on the PP, 35-40 as well.
 - Look for Jacque Martin to use J-Bo in every situation this year. He had a front row seat on the bench for Bouwmeisters breakout performance at the World Cup. 35 point will be reached.
 
Goalie (C)
 
 - Lehtonen will be a monster very very soon. But for this year, look for him and Dunham to share duties. The last thing the Thrashers want to do is fatigue their young goalie in a long 80 game grind.
 - Weekes should be abe to hold the fort while Lehtonen is on the bench. Weekes is an average goalie on an average team, so dont expect too much from him. Regardless, still a great pickup late in the draft as an insurance guy.

The 2005 SCHL Entry Draft
 September 22nd - All the action gets rolling tonight at 6pm Pacific time.  16 GMs are expected to be on hand for the annual event.  It looks to be an exciting draft with many snipes out there and considering we haven't done it in 2 years, I personally can't wait.

All the action start a roughly 6pm.  Bring your money guys.  Just to inform you, I will be collecting $100 for the SCHL fees.  $20 for last years playoffs pool ($20) and the NFL Survivor Pool $20.

You won't be drafting unless you're all paid up.  Don't make me cause a scene just bring the cashola.

 

Thanks guys, see you tonight.

PS - Directions are on the message board.


**Trade Freeze in Effect**
There will be no trading until the 22nd.

Regime Add an NHL Backup?

September 15th - Dunham has been dealt again to the Regime for Tim Connolly.

Has Hell Frozen Over?

September 7th - The unbelievable has happened today, life long Tycoon Jaromir Jagr has been dealt.  "It was a tough decision for our organization, but we felt we had to move him to a contender.  We're rebuilding now and we've got a new stud to build around." Said GM Johnston in his Toronto offices.  "And of all the teams?" chuckled Johnston, "but the Rowdies produced an offer that helped the Tycoons.  I feel bad for the league, but my job is to help us win.  Some team showed interest but weren't willing to go the extra mile."  The trade goes as follows the Tycoons send Jagr, Dunham and the 45th pick in 05 to the Rowdy Kilts for Sturm, 9th and 10th picks in this year's draft.  "To have the two most dominating players in SCHL history, on one team, is a delight to our club and fans. nothing short of pure excitement."  Kilts GM said in Scotland. "Other SCHL teams will now have to pick their poison, Brodeur Hossa or Jagr...choose your death boys.  We saw that there was a deal to be had. We had loads of top picks they needed them.  End of story."  This ends a storied past on the 2001 Champs, Tycoons for Jagr.  He was caught boarding the plane to London (site of the Rowdies training camp), "Wow is right.  I mean I play hockey good but I still want win.  Rowdies good for me.  I been booed there so much I wonder how treat me when I play for them."  Jagr started to break down, "I told Mess I wouldn't do this."

A Quasi-Blockbuster

September 2nd - Long-time Coyote, Matty Ohlund was dealt today to a contender in the Kilts.  "It came as a shock", said Ohlund from his North Vancouver flat. "We recently bought a house here, but that's the biz.  It'll be nice to play for team with fire power."  The major piece headed back to the Coyotes is Chris Drury. "Whatever, I've been on so many teams lately, I forget who I play for", Drury said.  The deal goes like this Rowdy Kilts send Drury, Niewendyk and the 61st pick in the draft to the Coyotes for Ohlund, Deadmarsh and the Coyotes 2nd round Croby pick.  This deal fills the Kilts D in nicely and allows them to use their 9th and 10th picks to pick the best player avail.

Horses Add Experience

September 2nd - The Horses are at it again, this time trading the Brahmas 2nd rounder in 2006  to the Gryphons for veteran Own Nolan.  Nolan will join recent addition LeClair on the Horses, as they make a run for the Cup.