2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs Preview - Conference Semifinals

1st Round Scores:

Eastern Conference:
#1 Washington Capitals defeat WC #2 Toronto Maple Leafs (4-2)
#2 Pittsburgh Penguins defeat #3 Columbus Blue Jackets (4-1)
WC #1 New York Rangers defeat #1 Montreal Canadiens (4-2)
#2 Ottawa Senators defeat #3 Boston Bruins (4-2)

Western Conference:
WC #2 Nashville Predators defeat #1 Chicago Blackhawks (4-0)
#3 St. Louis Blues defeat #2 Minnesota Wild (4-1)
#1 Anaheim Ducks defeat WC #1 Calgary Flames (4-0)
#2 Edmonton Oilers defeat #3 San Jose Sharks (4-2)

Here's a look at the 4 Conference Semifinal match-ups:

#1 Washington Capitals vs. #2 Pittsburgh Penguins

Season Series: Washington won the season series 2-0-2

October 13, 2016: Pittsburgh Penguins 3. Washington Capitals 2 (SO)
November 16. 2016: Washington Capitals 7, Pittsburgh Penguins 1 
January 11, 2017: Washington Capitals 5, Pittsburgh Penguins 2

January 16, 2017: Pittsburgh Penguins 8, Washington Capitals 7 (OT)

Players to Watch:

Washington: Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, TJ Oshie, Justin Williams, Braden Holtby, Kevin Shattenkirk

Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Phil Kessel, Jake Guentzel, Bryan Rust, Justin Schultz

X-Factor:

Washington: Alex Ovechkin 

Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby

Playoff Leaders:

Goals: Jake Guentzel (PIT) - 5, Alex Ovechkin/Justin Williams/TJ Oshie (WAS) - 3
Assists: Evgeni Malkin (PIT) - 9, Nicklas Backstrom (WAS) - 4
Points: Evgeni Malkin (PIT) - 11, TJ Oshie (WAS) - 7
Wins: Braden Holtby (WAS) - 4, Marc-Andre Fleury (PIT) - 4
Goals Against Average: Braden Holtby (WAS) - 2.36, Marc-Andre Fleury (PIT) - 2.52
Save Percentage: Marc-Andre Fleury (PIT) - .933%, Braden Holtby (WAS) - .925%

OT Goals: Tom Wilson/Justin Williams/Marcus Johansson (WAS) - 1, Jake Guentzel (PIT) - 1

Prediction: A rematch of last year's 2nd round series, this is without a doubt the series to watch in the 2nd round (Crosby vs. Ovie never disappoints). While many people are dubbing this as the Capitals year, I'm sticking with the defending Champion Penguins in this series.

(PENGUINS IN 6)

#2 Ottawa Senators vs. WC #1 New York Rangers

Season Series: Ottawa won the season series 2-1-0

November 27, 2016: Ottawa Senators 2, New York Rangers 0
December 27, 2016: New York Rangers 4, Ottawa Senators 3
April 8, 2017: Ottawa Senators 3, New York Rangers 1

Players to Watch:

Ottawa: Erik Karlsson, Craig Anderson, Mike Hoffman, Mark Stone, Bobby Ryan, Derick Brassard

New York: Henrik Lundqvist, Mats Zuccarello, Derek Stepan, Mika Zibanejad, Ryan McDonagh, Rick Nash

X-Factor:

Ottawa: Erik Karlsson

New York: Henrik Lundqvist

Playoff Leaders:

Goals: Bobby Ryan (OTT) - 4, Mats Zuccarello (NYR) - 3
Assists: Derick Brassard (OTT) - 6, Mika Zibanejad (NYR) - 3
Points: Derick Brassard (OTT) - 8, Mika Zibanejad (NYR) - 4
Wins: Craig Anderson (OTT) - 4, Henrik Lundqvist (NYR) - 4
Goals Against Average: Henrik Lundqvist (NYR) - 1.70, Craig Anderson (OTT) - 1.94
Save Percentage: Henrik Lundqvist (NYR) - .947%, Craig Anderson (OTT) - .921%

OT Goals: Dion Phaneuf/Bobby Ryan/Clarke MacArthur (OTT) - 1, Mika Zibanejad (NYR) - 1

Prediction: This series has the potential to go either way, two teams that are thriving based on the play of their goaltenders. I think the series goes 7 games, with the Rangers just squeaking by the Senators to the conference finals

(RANGERS IN 7)

#3 St. Louis Blues vs WC #2 Nashville Predators

Season Series: Nashville won the season series 3-2-0

November 10, 2016: Nashville Predators 3, St. Louis Blues 1
November 19. 2016: St. Louis Blues 3, Nashville Predators 1
December 13, 2016: Nashville Predators 6, St. Louis Blues 3

December 30, 2016: Nashville Predators 4, St. Louis Blues 0 

April 2, 2017: St. Louis Blues 4, Nashville Predators 1

Players to Watch:

St. Louis: Vladimir Tarasenko, Jake Allen, Jaden Schwartz, Alex Pietrangelo, Colton Parayko, Alex Steen

Nashville: Pekka Rinne, Filip Forsberg, Ryan Johansen, Viktor Arvidsson, Roman Josi, PK Subban

X-Factor:

St. Louis: Jake Allen

Nashville: Pekka Rinne

Playoff Leaders:

Goals: Joel Edmundson/Jaden Schwartz/Alex Steen (STL) - 2, Viktor Arvidsson/Roman Josi/Colton Sissons/Kevin Fiala/Filip Forsberg (NSH) - 2
Assists: Ryan Johansen (NSH) - 5, Patrik Berglund/Jaden Schwartz (STL) - 3
Points: Ryan Johansen (NSH) - 6, Jaden Schwartz (STL) - 5
Wins: Jake Allen (STL) - 4, Pekka Rinne (NSH) - 4
Goals Against Average: Pekka Rinne (NSH) 0.70, Jake Allen (STL) - 1.47
Save Percentage: Pekka Rinne (NSH) - .976%, Jake Allen (STL) - .956%

OT Goals: Joel Edmundson/Magnus Pajaarvi (STL) - 1, Kevin Fiala (NSH) - 1

Prediction: Both the Blues and Wild come into this series having upset a higher seed, and we have the best two goaltenders in round 1 facing off in this series in Pekka Rinne and Jake Allen. While I think either team can win the series, I like the Predators momentum after downing the Blackhawks and have them advancing to their 1st conference finals in franchise history.

(PREDATORS IN 6)

#1 Anaheim Ducks vs. #2 Edmonton Oilers

Season Series: Edmonton won the season series 3-2-0

November 15, 2016: Anaheim Ducks 4, Edmonton Oilers 1
December 3, 2016: Edmonton Oilers 3, Anaheim Ducks 2 (OT)
January 25, 2017: Edmonton Oilers 4, Anaheim Ducks 0

March 22, 2017: Anaheim Ducks 4, Edmonton Oilers 3

April 1, 2017: Edmonton Oilers 3, Anaheim Ducks 2 (OT)

Players to Watch:

Anaheim: Ryan Getzlaf, Rickard Rakell, Ryan Kesler, Corey Perry, John Gibson, Jakob Silfverberg

Edmonton: Connor McDavid, Cam Talbot, Leon Draisaitl, Milan Lucic, Oscar Klefbom, Zack Kassian

X-Factor:

Anaheim: Ryan Getzlaf

Edmonton: Connor McDavid 

Playoff Leaders:

Goals: Ryan Getzlaf (ANA) - 3, Connor McDavid/Zack Kassian/Oscar Klefbom (EDM) - 2
Assists: Kevin Bieksa (ANA) - 4, Connor McDavid/Leon Draisaitl/Matt Benning/Andrej Sekera/Mark Letestu (EDM) - 2
Points: Ryan Getzlaf/Rickard Rakell/Shea Theodore (ANA) - 5, Connor McDavid (EDM) - 4
Wins: Cam Talbot (EDM) - 4, John Gibson (ANA) - 3
Goals Against Average: Cam Talbot (EDM) - 2.03, John Gibson (ANA) - 2.59
Save Percentage: Cam Talbot (EDM) - .927%, John Gibson (ANA) - .926%

OT Goals: Corey Perry (ANA) - 1, David Desharnais (EDM) - 1

Prediction: The Oilers proved they are for real after beating the Sharks in round 1, and they get another tough Californian opponent in the Ducks in round 2. While I think McDavid is capable of leading the Oilers to a series win, I think the Ducks overpower the young Oilers and move on the Conference Finals

(DUCKS IN 6)

This would have Pittsburgh, New York, Nashville and Anaheim advancing to the Conference Finals. The match ups would be as follows:

ECF: #2 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. WC #1 New York Rangers

WCF: #1 Anaheim Ducks vs. WC #2 Nashville Predators

Joel Forman

The Forman Faceoff - 2016/2017 NHL Season Awards

With the 2016/17 NHL Regular season coming to an end, it's time to look at what players are in line for some new hardware this summer. For a frame of reference, here is my pre-season predictions for all the awards predicted below:

Hart Memorial Trophy - Sidney Crosby

Art Ross Trophy - Connor McDavid

Rocket Richard Trophy - Alexander Ovechkin

Vezina Trophy - Carey Price

James Norris Memorial Trophy - Brent Burns

Calder Memorial Trophy - Patrik Laine

Lady Byng Memorial Trophy - Anze Kopitar

Frank J. Selke Trophy - Jonathan Toews

Mark Messier Leadership Award - Sidney Crosby

NHL GM of the Year - David Poile

Jack Adams Trophy - Mike Sullivan

Eastern Conference Champions - Pittsburgh Penguins (over Tampa Bay Lightning)

Western Conference Champions - Chicago Blackhawks (over Los Angeles Kings)

Stanley Cup Champions - Pittsburgh Penguins

Conn Smythe Trophy - Sidney Crosby

(from: http://formanfaceoffnhl.blogspot.ca/2016/10/the-forman-faceoff-201617-nhl-season.html)

Hart Trophy

Winner: Sidney Crosby (PIT)

 (75 GP: 44 Goals, 45 Assists, 89 Points, +17, 25 PP Points)

I had a really hard time picking the Hart Trophy, and let me start off by saying the season that Connor McDavid had this year was special and made this a really difficult choice. With that being said, there hasn't been a more dominant player in hockey the past year than Sidney Crosby. After winning his second Stanley Cup and World Cup last year, Crosby finished this season 1st in goals (44) and 2nd in points (89) despite playing 7 less games than McDavid. He scored 40+ goals for the 2nd time in his career en route to his 2nd Rocket Richard Trophy. What's been most impressive about Crosby is his consistent production with the carousel of linemates he's had this this season, whether it was Chris Kunitz, Patric Hornqvist, Carl Hagelin, Bryan Rust, or more recently Conor Sheary and Jake Guentzel, the line produces. There's no question that McDavid has several Hart Trophies in his near future, but my vote goes to #87 this year.

Runner Ups:

Connor McDavid (EDM) - 82 GP: 30 Goals,  70 Assists, 100 Points, +27, 27 PP Points

Despite my choice of Crosby for the Hart Trophy, I wouldn't be shocked in Connor McDavid takes home the award as many people are expecting him to. After all, the 19-year old became just the 3rd teenager in NHL history (Sidney Crosby + Wayne Gretzky) to win the Art Ross Trophy with 100 points in 82 games. He reached 30 goals/100 points for the first time in his career, including a dazzling 14-game point streak to end the season in which he amassed 25 points. The Oilers Captain has completely changed the outlook in Edmonton in the two years he's been there, changing them from a team who couldn't seem win to sending them back to the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. There's no doubt that this year has been special for McDavid, and he's poised to be the best player in the NHL for years and years to come.

Patrick Kane (CHI) - 82 GP: 34 Goals, 55 Assists, 89 Points, +11, 23 PP Points

While Kaner didn't quite have the season he had last year (46 goals, 106 points), he was quietly consistent all year and deserves to be recognized. He finished 2nd in the NHL with 89 points, and top-10 in goals with 34 while leading the Blackhawks to first place in the Central Division and Western Conference. Many expected the Blackhawks to take a step back this season with a relatively young team, but Kane's consistency has kept them as the perennial contenders they are. While you could make a good case for a guy like Brad Marchand or Nikita Kucherov to be nominated for the Hart, my choice goes to Kane.

Honourable Mentions: Nikita Kucherov (TBL), Brad Marchand (BOS), Sergei Bobrovsky (CBJ), Brent Burns (SJS), Nicklas Backstrom (WAS)

Rocket Richard Trophy

Winner: Sidney Crosby (PIT) - 44 goals {OFFICIAL}

In Range: 

Auston Matthews - 40 goals

Nikita Kucherov - 40 goals

Brad Marchand - 39 goals

Vladimir Tarasenko - 39 goals

Art Ross Trophy

Winner: Connor McDavid (EDM) - 100 points {OFFICIAL}

In Range:

Sidney Crosby (PIT) - 89 Points

Patrick Kane (CHI) - 89 Points

Nicklas Backstrom (WAS) - 86 Points

Brad Marchand (BOS) - 85 Points

Nikita Kucherov (TBL) - 85 Points

Vezina Trophy

Winner: Sergei Bobrovsky (CLS) 

(63 GP: 41-17-5, .931 Save %, 2.06 Goals Against Average, 7 Shutouts)

The biggest surprise of the NHL season has been the Columbus Blue Jackets, who went from 2nd worst in the NHL last year to 4th best. A massive part of the Blue Jackets rise has been the resurgence of goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, the 2013 Vezina Trophy winner has been nothing short of spectacular this season for John Tortorella. He currently sits atop or near all of the goalie categories: 1st in goals against average (2.06), 1st in save percentage (.931%), 2nd in wins (41), and 3rd in shutouts (7). The Blue Jackets put up a franchise-best 108 points this year, 15 more than the next best season, and Bob starting 63 on 82 games was a big part of this. He's almost a lock to take home his 2nd Vezina Trophy of his young career.

Runner Ups:

Braden Holtby (WAS) - 63 GP: 42-13-6, .925 Save %, 2.07 Goals Against Average, 9 Shutouts

The reigning Vezina Trophy winner has been as good, if not better, than he was last season where he won an NHL-record 48 wins. For the 2nd year in a row the Capitals won the Presidents Trophy, with Holby winning the William M. Jennings Award for lowest goals allowed in the NHL. Many people like to write off Holtby because of how stacked the Capitals are on offense, but that doesn't hide the fact he sits near the top of all goalie categories: 2nd in goals against average (2.07), 4th in save percentage (.925%), 1st in wins (42), and 1st in shutouts (9). There's no question that Bobrovsky has had a fantastic year and will likely win the Vezina, but that won't stop the Caps goalie from being nomianted for a 2nd year in a row.

Devan Dubnyk (MIN) - 63 GP: 40-19-5, .923 Save %, 2.25 Goals Against Average, 5 Shutouts

Much like I spoke about Holtby up above, Dubnyk was one of the best goalies in the NHL last season and has been equally if not more impressive this year. The Wild have been one of the most consistent teams in the NHL this season under new Head Coach Bruce Boudreau, and Dubnyk has been a calming presence in net like he has done so well since he arrived in Minnesota. He sits near the top of every goalie category: 8th in goals against average (2.25), 7th in save percentage (.923%), 4th in wins (40) and 7th in shutouts (5). While he hasn't had as dominant a year as the two goalies above, he's had the type of year that deserves recognition.

Honourable Mentions: Cam Talbot (EDM), Tuukka Rask (BOS), Carey Price (MTL), Craig Anderson (OTT)

Norris Trophy

Winner: Brent Burns (SJS)

(82 GP: 29 Goals, 47 Assists, 76 Points, +19, 25 PP Points)

What a season Sharks D Brent Burns had, posting a career-high 29 goals and 76 points in 82 games to finish top 10 in the NHL in scoring. After posting 60 and 75 points respectively the past two seasons, Burns lead all defenseman in goals (29), points (76) and shots (320), 3rd in assists (47), 2nd in PP goals (8) and 3rd in PP Points (25). Perhaps what was most impressive about Burns is he lead all NHL players in shots with 320, 7 more than Alexander Ovechkin who has lead the NHL in shots since 2011. On a high-powered Sharks team that went to the Stanley Cup Finals last year, Burns has been the go-to guy generating offense this year for Pete DeBoer's year. He was my pre-season Norris pick, and he remains my choice at the end of the year.

Runner Ups:

Erik Karlsson (OTT) - 77 GP: 17 Goals, 54 Assists, 71 Points, +10, 27 PP Points

While it's no question the special season that Brent Burns had, it's hard to overlook what Sens Captain Erik Karlsson has done this year. Karlsson finished 2nd amongst all defenseman in assists (54), points (71) and PP points (27) while playing 26:50 icetime a night (4th in the NHL). Many people felt he should have won the Norris last year after a career-high 82 points, while he's had another great offensive year it's been his defensive play turning heads (2nd in blocks with 201). Down the stretch he might have been the best player in the NHL, posting 9 goals and 32 points over his last 25 games. It's going to be a very difficult choice between Burns and Karlsson, but it would not shock me if the Sens Captain walked away with his 3rd Norris Trophy.

Victor Hedman (TBL) - 79 GP: 16 Goals, 56 Assists, 72 Points, +3, 33 PP Points

Completely overshadowed by Burns and Karlsson is the career season Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman is having. He finished the year with a career-high 16 goals and 72 points, which is 17 points more than his previous best. Hedman lead all defenseman in assists (56) and PP points (33), while finishing 2nd in points (72). Playing in Tampa Bay doesn't get Hedman the exposure he deserves, especially after the Lightning had a down year and missed the playoffs. In a two-horse race between Burns and Karlsson, Hedman is the logical 3rd guy to be nominated for the Vezina.

Honourable Mentions: Kevin Shattenkirk (WSH), Shea Weber (MTL), Duncan Keith (CHI)

Calder Trophy

Winner: Auston Matthews (TOR)

(82 GP: 40 Goals, 29 Assists, 69 Points, +2, 22 PP Points)

Perhaps the most exciting trophy race to watch this season has been the Calder, with many people dubbing the 2016/17 rookie group as the best in NHL history. After such a strong group last year with McDavid/Panarin and company, #1 overall pick Auston Matthews has been the talk of the NHL this year after his 4-goal NHL debut. He lead all rookies in goals (40) and points (69), and his 40 goals were 2nd to Sidney Crosby in the entire NHL. What was most impressive about the 19-year old Matthews this season is all the records he broke; most goals by a Leafs rookie, most point by a Leafs rookie, and most goals any American-born rookie. Matthews did all of this while playing on a line with fellow rookies Zach Hyman and William Nylander/Connor Brown, a feat even more impressive considering how hard it is to adjust to center in the NHL. There are a lot of other rookies in this class who in any other year might win the Calder, but to me it's pretty clear that Auston Matthews is this year's winner.

Runner Ups:

Patrik Laine (WPG) - 73 GP: 36 Goals, 28 Assists, 64 Points, +7, 14 PP Points

Before the season I chose Laine as my Calder pick, and he took the NHL by storm with 11 goals and 16 points in his first 15 games (including two hat tricks). Laine finished 2nd among all rookies in goals (36) and points (64) and would have likely finished higher had he not missed 8 games with a concussion. After such a dominant year in Finland/World Juniors last season, many people wondered how Laine's game would translate in North America, but he's proven that he will be one of the best goal scorers in the NHL for years and years to come. For most of the season he was right up with Matthews in the Calder race, it's going to be interesting to watch these two and how their careers pan out. He's my clear-cut runner-up to Matthews for the Calder.

Matt Murray (PIT) - 49 GP: 32-10-4, .923 Save %, 2.41 Goals Against Average, 4 Shutouts

Now picking a 3rd guy after Matthews and Laine was really tricky, it could be any of the 5 players that I listed below. The fact of the matter is many people either don't realize Murray is a rookie or don't think he should qualify after winning the Cup last year, but after Panarin won the Calder last year it put's Murray in that similar role. After taking the starting job in Pittsburgh from longtime goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, Murray posted an impressive 32-10-4 record this season with a .932 save percentage and 2.41 goals against average. The Penguins finished 2nd in the NHL with 111 points and Murray was a big part of that, he's going to be a top 10 goal in the NHL for years and years to come. He is my 3rd choice for Calder nomination.

Honourable Mentions: Mitch Marner (TOR), Zach Werenski (CLS), William Nylander (TOR), Sebastian Aho (CAR), Matthew Tkachuk (CGY)

Lady Byng Trophy

Winner: Johnny Gaudreau (CGY)

4 PIMs

In 72 games this season Gaudreau picked up just 2 minor penalties, while scoring 18 goals and 61 points in this process.

Runner Ups:

Oscar Klefbom (EDM) - 6 PIMs

Klefbom played all 82 games for the Oilers this season and picked up just 3 minor penalties, and offensively he had a career-high 12 goals and 38 points.

Vladimir Tarasenko (STL) - 12 PIMs

Tarasenko played all 82 games for the Blues this season and picked up just 6 minor penalties, and in the process he scored 39 goals and a career-high 75 points,

Honourable Mentions: Brandon Saad (CBJ), Aleksander Barkov (FLA), Mikael Granlund (MIN)

Selke Trophy

Winner: Ryan Kesler (ANA)

(82 GP: 22 Goals, 36 Assists, 58 Points, +8, 20 PP Points)

Kesler has improved each year since arriving in Anaheim, finishing with 22 goals and 58 points for his highest point output since 2010/11, the last time he won the Selke Trophy. He played 21:18 average icetime per night, good for 3rd best among all forwards in the NHL. Kesler won a career-best 1029 total faceoffs this year (3rd in the NHL) while winning 57.4% of his faceoffs (6th in the NHL). Kesler has been a big part of the Ducks winning the Pacific Division for a 5th straight year, look for him to add some hardware to his trophy case this summer.

Runner Ups:

Mikko Koivu (MIN) - 80 GP: 18 Goals, 40 Assists, 58 Points, +27, 20 PP Points

With the arrival of Bruce Boudreau in Minnesota the Wild transformed from a good to a great team this year, and Captain Mikko Koivu was a big part of that. He scored 18 goals and 58 points while finishing a career-best +27, pacing the Ducks to 2nd in the Central Division. While playing 19:06 icetime a game this season (32nd among all forwards), Koivu won 938 total faceoffs (5th in the NHL) and 55.2% of his faceoffs (12th in the NHL). Koivu was already named as one of 3 finalists for the Selke Trophy, so it will be interesting to see if he wins the award this summer.

Patrice Bergeron (BOS) - 79 GP: 21 Goals, 32 Assists, 53 Points, +12, 17 PP Points

For the 6th time in his career Patrice Bergeron is a Selke Trophy finalist, the three-time winner (2012, 2014, 2015) can join Bob Gainey as the only 4-time winners if he takes the award this summer. Bergeron scored 21 goals and 52 points in 79 games this season while playing 19:25 icetime a game (21st among all forwards). He won an NHL-best 1089 total faceoffs and finished 3rd in the NHL winning 60.1% of his faceoffs. While many people think that Kesler/Koivu have a good chance at winning the Selke, Bergeron's past winning history plays in his favour and it would not surprise me if he won his 4th Selke Trophy.

Honourable Mentions: Jonathan Toews (CHI), Mikael Backlund (CGY), Mark Stone (OTT)

Mark Messier Leadership Award:

Winner: Sidney Crosby (PIT)

After leading the Penguins to the Stanley Cup last season, his 2nd as Captain, Crosby paced the Pens to 111 points this year and good for 2nd best in the NHL. He also scored an NHL-best 44 goals and continues to pile on the points no matter who he plays with (see above)

Runner Ups:

Erik Karlsson (OTT)

Karlsson almost single-handily pushed the Senators into the playoffs this season, and his play at the defensive end has rounded into one of the NHL's best players. As Craig Anderson put it recently on Karlsson's leadership, "He’s starting to remind me a lot of Alfredsson, where guys are starting to kill themselves for him."

Mikko Koivu (MIN)

As I mentioned above about Koivu in the Selke Trophy, his leadership has blossomed under new Head Coach Bruce Boudreau. The Wild finished 2nd in the Central (and 5th in the NHL) with 106 points this season.

GM of the Year

Winner: Jeff Gorton (NYR)

After a disappointing 5-game series loss to the Penguins in round 1 last year, the Rangers were in for a summer of changes as many people saw them as an old team in a transition period. Rangers GM Jeff Gorton made a series of moves last summer that have played out brilliantly; the Mika Zibanejad for Derick Brassard swap, luring college free agent Jimmy Vesey, signing Michael Grabner (27 goals) and Nick Holden (34 points) and bringing Pavel Buchnevich over from the KHL (20 points in 41 games). In a talented Metropolitan division the Rangers finished 4th with 102 points and the moves made by Gorton were a big part of that. He is my choice for GM of the year.

Runner Ups: 

Lou Lamiorello (TOR)

Hasn't been a better story in the NHL this season than the turnaround of the Toronto Maple Leafs, thanks in part to a trio of super rookies in Auston Matthews/Mitch Marner/William Nylander. While Lou didn't draft Marner/Nylander, and he was gifted Matthews with the #1 pick last year, there have been a number of others moves that have helped shaped the Leafs into a playoff team. It all started with the summer trade for Frederik Andersen, who was a huge part of the Leafs success this year winning 33 games. Lou brought Nikita Zaitsev over from Russia, who has been a calming presence on the Leafs blueline playing big minutes as their shutdown guy, while also adding tough guy Matt Martin who has been noted as a big locker room guy (especially with some of the Leafs rookies). Perhaps his biggest move came at the trade deadline, acquiring towering 6'6 center Brian Boyle from the Lightning for the playoff push. Lou deserves a ton of credit for the job he has done in his short tenure in Toronto.

Stan Bowman (CHI)

Many people had the Hawks pegged for a down year this season, a team in transition after losing in the 1st round to St. Louis last year. For years Bowman has had to deal with a tight salary cap with his core players making most of the money, and that always leaves changes in the bottom half of their lineup. While the stars remain on the roster, Bowman has done a great job bringing in a mix of youth and veterans to make the Hawks into Central Division Champions this year. A group of rookies in Nick Schmatlz, Tanner Kero, Ryan Hartman, Tyler Motte and Vince Hinnestroza have all made big contributions this season for the Blackhawks. Bowman added former Blackhawk Brian Campbell in the summer, and added another former Blackhawk defenseman Johnny Oduya at the trade deadline. Bowman doesn't get enough credit for keeping the Hawks in contention year after year with little money to work with, and he deserves the recognition this year.

Honourable Mentions: Jim Rutherford (PIT), Brian MacLellan (WAS), Chuck Fletcher (MIN)

Jack Adams Trophy

Winner: Mike Babcock (TOR) 

40-27-15, 95 Points, 4th in the Atlantic Division

Mike Babcock has always been one of (if not the) best coaches in the NHL, but the job he has done to turn around the Maple Leafs in 2 short years is nothing short of remarkable. With an overload of youth injecting into the Leafs lineup this year, Babcock has changed them from a consistent lottery team to within 8 points of the division lead and most importantly a playoff team. It's also shocking to me that Babcock has never won the Jack Adams in his career, especially with all those dominant Red Wings teams of the mid 2000s, so fitting that this would be the year he finally get's the recognition he deserves.

Runner Ups:

Joel Quenneville (CHI) - 50-23-9, 109 Points, 1st in the Central Division/Western Conference

Quenneville is a 1-time Jack Adams winner, having won it years back in 1999/2000 while a member of the St. Louis Blues. Much like Babcock with all those dominant Red Wings teams, Quenneville has had the Blackhawks dynasty since he arrived in Chicago and has never won Jack Adams during that time. With a young team this year the Hawks stayed as perennial Stanley Cup contenders winning the Central Division/Western Conference with 109 points (3rd best in the NHL). Whether he wins the award over Babcock remains to be seen, but Quenneville deserves to be nominated.

Bruce Boudreau (MIN) - 49-25-8, 106 Points, 2nd in the Central Division

It's still kind of shocking to me that the Ducks fired Bruce Boudreau last summer, despite winning 4 straight Pacific Division titles it wasn't enough to overlook the 4 straight game 7 losses on home ice in the playoffs. The Wild happily pounced on Boudreau, and he took them from 87 points and a Wild Card team last season to 106 points and 2nd best in the Western Conference (5th in the NHL) this season. This 3rd spot could easily go to a guy like John Tortorella, but my choice is for Boudreau and the great job he has done in Minnesota.

Honourable Mentions: John Tortorella (CBJ), Mike Sullivan (PIT), Barry Trotz (WSH)

Masterson Trophy

Winner: Craig Anderson (OTT)

Anderson was one of the best stories in hockey this year, taking time of to deal with his wife Nicholle's sudden cancer diagnosis, only to return and play inspired and fantastic hockey for the Senators this season. Despite several weeks away from the team, Anderson started 40 games this year winning 25 and putting up 5 shutouts. Had he played all season he would be in Vezina conversation, but he showed family matters more than hockey in caring for his wife this season and made the best of a difficult situation. With the NHL community rooting for Anderson all season, he is the obvious Masterson Trophy winner

Runner Ups:

Derek Ryan (CAR)

Ryan is one of the feel-good stories of the NHL season, making his NHL debut at age 30 after years of different hockey leagues. He went from the WHL, to Canadian University, to Austria, to Sweden before his journey to Carolina in the NHL where had 29 points in 67 games this season.

Marian Hossa (CHI)

Hossa has beena model of consistency since signing with the Blackhawks in 2009, and he hit career milestones this year with his 500th goal and 1300th NHL game played. Including playoff games he has played over 1500 games and has won 3 Stanley Cups.

Honourable Mentions: Andrew Cogliano (ANA), Zdeno Chara (BOS)


Here's a few unofficial awards that I have given out:

Comeback Player of the Year

Winner: Eric Staal (MIN)

(82 GP: 28 Goals, 37 Assists, 65 Points, +17, 16 PP Points)

The longtime Hurricanes Captain had a down year last season, with just 13 goals and 39 points in 83 games for the Hurricanes/Rangers combined, both career-lows. He had just 6 points in 20 games with the Rangers and many people (including myself) were writing him off as a 32-year old free agent last summer. The Wild signed him to a 3-year $10.5 million deal, and he has responded with 28 goals and 65 points in 82 games this season, good for 2nd on the Wild in each category. He looks like a completely rejuvenated played under Boudreau and looks to have a second wind in his great career.

Runner Ups:

Alex Radulov (MTL) - 76 GP: 18 Goals, 36 Assists, 54 Points, +10, 16 PP Points

Radulov last played in the NHL in 2012, a short stint with the Predators in the playoffs before returning to the KHL until last summer. Radulov spent 2008-2011 and 2012-2016 in the KHL, and hasn't been heard of in the NHL since he was with the Predators earlier in his career. Flash forward to last summer, he became a highly sought after free agent after coming over from Russia and signed a 1-year $5.75 million deal with the Canadiens. Playing mostly on a line with Captain Max Pacioretty, Radulov scored 18 goals and 54 points in 76 games this season adding a much-needed scoring element to the Canadiens. After failing to succeed in the NHL in his 20s, Radulov finally seems to have found his game in his 30s.

Nazem Kadri (TOR) - 82 G: 32 Goals, 29 Assists, 61 Points, -7, 17 PP Points

Kadri didn't exactly have a bad year last season, 17 goals and 45 points, but on a really bad Leafs team he somehow lead them in scoring. Kadri had 44 points in 48 games during the lockout year in 2013, but hasn't been able to find his game until this season. He scored career-high 32 goals and 61 points this season while also playing the role of shutdown center against the best in the NHL. There's no question how big of an influence Mike Babcock has had on Kadri since arriving in Toronto, as he is developing into one of the best two-way centers in the NHL.

Breakout Player of the Year

Winner: Mikael Granlund (MIN)

(81 GP: 26 Goals, 43 Assists, 69 Points, +23, 20 PP Points)

Granlund lead the Wild this season with 69 points in 81 games while scoring a career-high 26 goals, but even more impressive considering his career-high before this season was 13 goals 44 points. Under Bruce Boudreau it looks like Granlund has taken the next step in his career and has turned into one of the most dynamic players in the NHL at 25-years old.

Runner Ups:

David Pastrnak (BOS) - 75 GP: 34 Goals, 36 assists, 70 Points, +11, 24 PP Points

Playing on one of the best lines in the NHL with Patrice Bergeron (52 points) and Brad Marchand (85 points), Pastrnak scored a career-high 34 goals and 70 points in 75 games this season. The 20-year old Czech winger looks like he will be one of the best goal scorers in the NHL for years and years to come.

Viktor Arvidsson (NSH) - 80 GP: 31 Goals, 30 Assists, 61 Points, +16, 9 PP Points)

Arvidsson had just 8 goals and 16 points in 56 games last season, switching between the NHL and AHL at times. Flash forward to this season and Arvidsson was one of the best players on the Predators, scoring 31 goals and 61 points in 80 games this season. He has been a mainstay on the Predators top line with Ryan Johansen and Filip Forsberg and has a bright future ahead at 24-years old.

Honourable Mentions: Cam Atkinson (CBJ), Nikolaj Ehlers (WPG), Alexander Wennberg (CBJ)


Joel Forman

2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs Preview - Eastern/Western Conference Quarterfinals

The best time of the year, the Stanley Cup playoffs are back! After 0 Canadian teams made the playoffs last year, there are 5 of them this year, what a difference a year makes. It's time to look at all 8 first-round match ups and how I predict they will play out:

#1 Montreal Canadiens vs WC #1 New York Rangers

Season Series: Montreal won the season series 3-0-0

January 14, 2017: Montreal Canadiens 5, New York Rangers 4
February 21. 2017: Montreal Canadiens 3, New York Rangers 2 (SO)
March 4th, 2017: Montreal Canadiens 4, New York Rangers 1

Players to Watch:

Montreal: Carey Price, Max Pacioretty, Alex Radulov, Shea Weber, Brendan Gallagher, Alex Galchenyuk

New York: Henrik Lundqvist, Chris Kreider, Mats Zuccarello, Mika Zibanejad, Ryan McDonagh, JT Miller

X-Factor:

Montreal: Carey Price

New York: Henrik Lundqvist

Team Leaders:

Goals: Max Pacioretty (MTL) - 35, Chris Kreider (NYR) - 28
Assists: Mats Zuccarello (NYR) - 44, Alex Radulov (MTL) - 36
Points: Max Pacioretty (MTL) - 67, Mats Zuccarello (NYR) - 59
Wins: Carey Price (MTL) - 37, Henrik Lundqvist (31)
Goals Against Average: Carey Price (MTL) - 2.23, Antti Raanta (NYR) - 2.26
Save Percentage: Carey Price (MTL) - .923%, Antti Raanta (NYR) - .926%

Prediction: Taking a closer look at this series we have two very evenly matched teams, and thus it made it a very difficult choice to pick a winner. However, I'm going with King Henrik and the Rangers moving on to the 2nd round.

(RANGERS IN 7)


#2 Ottawa Seantors vs. #3 Boston Bruins

Season Series: Senators won the season series 4-0-0

November 24, 2016: Ottawa Senators 3, Boston Bruins 1
March 6, 2017: Ottawa Senators 4, Boston Bruins 2
March 21, 2017: Ottawa Senators 3, Boston Bruins 2
April 6, 2017: Ottawa Senators 2, Boston Bruins 1 (SO)

Players to Watch:

Ottawa: Erik Karlsson, Craig Anderson, Mark Stone, Mike Hoffman, Kyle Turris, Alex Burrows

Boston: Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, Tuukka Rask, Zdeno Chara, David Pastrnak, David Krejci

X-Factor:

Ottawa: Erik Karlsson

Boston: Brad Marchand

Team Leaders:

Goals: Brad Marchand (BOS) - 39, Kyle Turris (OTT) - 27
Assists: Erik Karlsson (OTT) - 54, Brad Marchand (BOS) - 46
Points: Brad Marchand (BOS) - 85, Erik Karlsson (OTT) - 71
Wins: Tuukka Rask (BOS) - 37, Craig Anderson (OTT) - 25
Goals Against Average: Tuukka Rask (BOS) - 2.23, Craig Anderson (OTT) - 2.28
Save Percentage: Craig Anderson (OTT) - .926%, Tuukka Rask (BOS) - .915%

Prediction: This is going to be a great series to watch, two very evenly matched teams that both have goaltenders with the ability to steal a series. With that in mind, I think the Bruins squeak out a 7-game series win.

(BRUINS IN 7)


#1 Washington Capitals vs. WC #2 Toronto Maple Leafs

Season Series: Capitals won season series 2-1-0

November 26, 2016: Toronto Maple Leafs 4, Washington Capitals 2
January 3, 2017: Washington Capitals 6, Toronto Maple Leafs 5 (OT)
April 4, 2017: Washington Capitals 4, Toronto Maple Leafs 1

Players to Watch:

Washington: Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, Braden Holtby, Kevin Shattenkirk, TJ Oshie, Justin Williams

Toronto: Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, Frederik Andersen, Nazem Kadri, Morgan Rielly

X-Factor:

Washington: Alex Ovechkin

Toronto: Auston Matthews

Team Leaders:

Goals: Auston Matthews (TOR) - 40, Alex Ovechkin/TJ Oshie (WAS) - 33
Assists: Nicklas Backstrom (WAS) - 63, Mitch Marner (TOR) - 42
Points: Nicklas Backstrom (WAS) - 86, Auston Matthews (TOR) - 69
Wins: Braden Holtby (WAS) - , Frederik Andersen (TOR) -
Goals Against Average: Braden Holtby (WAS) - , Frederik Andersen (TOR) -
Save Percentage: Braden Holtby (WAS) - , Frederik Andersen (TOR) -

Prediction: I must admit that the Leafs are one of the most entertaining teams in the NHL this season, and as the underdog I'm rooting for them in this series. However, the Capitals are too good to lose in the 1st round and will overpower the young Leafs.

(CAPITALS IN 6)


#2 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. #3 Columbus Blue Jackets

Season Series: Season series tied 2-1-1

December 22, 2016: Columbus Blue Jackets 7, Pittsburgh Penguins 1
February 3, 2017: Pittsburgh Penguins 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 3 (OT)
February 17, 2017: Columbus Blue Jackets 2, Pittsburgh Penguins 1 (OT)
April 4, 2017: Pittsburgh Penguins 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 1

Players to Watch:

Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Phil Kessel, Justin Schultz, Jake Guentzel, Patric Hornqvist

Columbus: Sergei Bobrovsky, Cam Atkinson, Brandon Saad, Seth Jones, Zach Werenski, Brandon Dubinsky

X-Factor:

Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby

Columbus: Sergei Bobrovsky

Team Leaders:

Goals: Sidney Crosby (PIT) - 44, Cam Atkinson (CLS) - 35
Assists: Phil Kessel (PIT) - 47, Alexander Wennberg (CLS) - 46
Points: Sidney Crosby (PIT) - 89, Cam Atkinson (CLS) - 62
Wins: Sergei Bobrovsky (CLS) - 41. Matt Murray (PIT) - 31
Goals Against Average: Sergei Bobrovsky (CLS) - 2.06, Matt Murray (PIT) - 2.41
Save Percentage: Sergei Bobrovsky (CLS) - .931%, Matt Murray (PIT) - .923%

Prediction: Two of the top 4 teams in the NHL, who also happen to really dislike each other dating back to a 1st-round match up a few years ago, is the perfect recipe for an entertaining series. It has the potential to go either way, but I think the defending Champion Penguins will move on to the 2nd round.

(PENGUINS IN 5)


This would have Washington, Pittsburgh, Boston and New York advancing to the next round. The match ups would be as follows:

#1 Washington Capitals vs. #2 Pittsburgh Penguins
#3 Boston Bruins vs. WC #1 New York Rangers

#1 Chicago Blackhawks vs. WC #2 Nashville Predators

Season Series: Chicago won the season series 4-1-0

October 14, 2016: Nashville Predators 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2
October 15, 2016: Chicago Blackhawks 5, Nashville Predators 3
December 29, 2016: Chicago Blackhawks 3, Nashville Predators 2
January 8, 2017: Chicago Blackhawks 5, Nashville Predators 2
March 4, 2017: Chicago Blackhawks 5, Nashville Predators 3

Players to Watch:

Chicago: Patrick Kane, Artemi Panarin, Jonathan Toews, Duncan Keith, Marian Hossa, Artem Anisimov

Nashville: Filip Forsberg, Viktor Arvidsson, PK Subban, Roman Josi, Ryan Johansen, James Neal

X-Factor:

Chicago: Patrick Kane

Nashville: Filip Forsberg

Team Leaders:

Goals: Patrick Kane (CHI) - 34, Filip Forsberg/Viktor Arvidsson (NSH) - 31
Assists: Patrick Kane (CHI) - 55, Ryan Johansen (NSH) - 47
Points: Patrick Kane (CHI) - 89, Filip Forsberg/Viktor Arvidsson (NSH) - 61
Wins: Corey Crawford (CHI) - 32, Pekka Rinne (NSH) - 31
Goals Against Average: Juuse Saros (NSH) - 2.35, Scott Darling (CHI) - 2.38
Save Percentage: Juuse Saros (NSH) - .924%, Scott Darling (CHI) - .924%

Prediction: The Blackhawks defeated the Predators in the 1st round in 2013 and 2015, both years they went on to win the Stanley Cup. I think they are too good for the Predators and history repeats itself yet again.

(BLACKHAWKS IN 6)


#2 Minnesota Wild vs. #3 St. Louis Blues

Players to Watch: Blues won season series 3-2-0

October 13, 2016: St. Louis Blues 3, Minnesota Wild 2
November 26, 2016: St. Louis Blues 4, Minnesota Wild 3 (SO)
December 11, 2016: Minnesota Wild 3, St. Louis Blues 1
January 26, 2017: Minnesota Wild 5, St. Louis Blues 1
March 7, 2017: St. Louis Blues 2, Minnesota Wild 1

Minnesota: Deven Dubnyk, Mikael Granlund, Ryan Suter, Mikko Koivu, Nino Niederreiter, Charlie Coyle

St. Louis: Vladimir Tarasenko, Jaden Schwartz, Alex Steen, Alex Pietrangelo, Colton Parayko, David Perron

X-Factor:

Minnesota: Devan Dubnyk

St. Louis: Vladimir Tarasenko

Team Leaders:

Goals: Vladimir Tarasenko (STL) - 39, Eric Staal (MIN) - 28
Assists: Mikael Granlund (MIN) - 43, Vladimir Tarasenko/Jaden Schwartz (STL) - 36
Points: Vladimir Tarasenko (STL) - 75, Mikael Granlund (MIN) - 69
Wins: Devan Dubnyk (MIN) - 40, Jake Allen (STL) - 33
Goals Against Average: Devan Dubnyk (MIN) - 2.25, Carter Hutton (STL) - 2.39
Save Percentage: Devan Dubnyk (MIN) - .924%, Jake Allen (STL) - .915%

Prediction: This Blues/Wild meet in the first round for the 2nd time in 3 years, and this has the potential to be another close series. I think it could go either way, and the Wild will edge the Blues in 7 games.

(WILD IN 7)


#1 Anaheim Ducks vs. WC #2 Calgary Flames

Season Series: Ducks won season series 4-1-0

November 6, 2016: Anaheim Ducks 4, Calgary Flames 1
December 4, 2016: Calgary Flames 8, Anaheim Ducks 3
December 29, 2016: Anaheim Ducks 3, Calgary Flames 1
April 2, 2017: Anaheim Ducks 4, Calgary Flames 3
April 4, 2017: Anaheim Ducks 3, Calgary Flames 1

Players to Watch:

Anaheim: Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, Rickard Rakell, Ryan Kesler, John Gibson, Sam Vatanen

Calgary: Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, Brian Elliott, Mark Giordano, Dougie Hamilton, Matt Tkachuk

X-Factor:

Anaheim: Ryan Getzlaf

Calgary: Johnny Gaudreau

Team Leaders:

Goals: Rickard Rakell (ANA) - 33, Sean Monahan (CGY) - 27
Assists: Ryan Getzlaf (ANA) - 58, Johnny Gaudreau (CGY) - 43
Points: Ryan Getzlaf (ANA) - 73, Johnny Gaudreau (CGY) - 61
Wins: Brian Elliott (CGY) - 26, John Gibson (ANA) - 25
Goals Against Average: John Gibson (ANA) - 2.22, Brian Elliott (CGY) - 2.55
Save Percentage: John Gibson (ANA) - .924%, Brian Elliott (CGY) - .910%

Prediction: Another rematch from the 2015 playoffs, the Flames/Ducks don't like each other one bit after a Mark Giordano knee-on-knee on Cam Fowler earlier this month. This series is going to have a ton of bad blood and it will be very entertaining to watch, but I think the Ducks power past the Flames into the 2nd round

(DUCKS IN 4)


#2 Edmonton Oilers vs #3 San Jose Sharks

Season Series: Oilers won season series 3-1-1

December 23, 2016: San Jose Sharks 3, Edmonton Oilers 2 (OT)
January 10, 2017: San Jose Sharks 5, Edmonton Oilers 3
January 26, 2017: Edmonton Oilers 4, San Jose Sharks 1
March 30, 2017: Edmonton Oilers 3, San Jose Sharks 2
April 6, 2017: Edmonton Oilers 4, San Jose Sharks 2

Players to Watch:

Edmonton: Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Cam Talbot, Jordan Eberle, Milan Lucic, Oscar Klefbom

San Jose: Brent Burns, Joe Pavelski, Joe Thornton, Logan Couture, Patrick Marleau, Martin Jones

X-Factor:

Edmonton: Connor McDavid

San Jose: Brent Burns

Team Leaders:

Goals: Connor McDavid (EDM) - 30, Brent Burns/Joe Pavelski (SJS) - 29
Assists: Connor McDavid (EDM) - 70, Brent Burns (SJS) - 47
Points: Connor McDavid (EDM) - 100, Brent Burns (SJS) - 76
Wins: Cam Talbot (EDM) - 42, Martin Jones (SJS) - 35
Goals Against Average: Cam Talbot (EDM) - 2.39, Martin Jones (SJS) - 2.40
Save Percentage: Cam Talbot (EDM) - .919%, Martin Jones (SJS) - .912%

Prediction: The Oilers are back in the playoffs for the first time in 11 years and I think everyone is extremely excited to see the playoff debut of Connor McDavid. This series is wide open and really can go either way, but I am siding with the experienced Sharks to move onto the 2nd round.

(SHARKS IN 6)


This would have Chicago, Minnesota, Anaheim and San Jose advancing to the next round. The match ups would be as follows:

#1 Chicago Blackhawks vs. #2 Minnesota Wild
#2 Anaheim Ducks vs. #3 San Jose Sharks

1st Round Match Ups:

-Joel Forman - The Forman Faceoff