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Category: NHL

San Jose Sharks Stick to the Plan

The San Jose Sharks stick to the plan as they continue their rebuild into the 2023-24 season, and look to the future.

2022-23

Record: 22-44-16 (60 pts) – 7th in Pacific

Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

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Key Losses

James Riemer (G – DET), Steven Lorentz (F – UFA), Erik Karlsson (D – PIT)

Key Additions

Anthony Duclair (F), Mackenzie Blackwood (G), Filip Zadina (F), Mikael Granlund (F), Jan Rutta (D), Mike Hoffman (F). Kyle Burroughs (D)

2023-24 Preview

The San Jose Sharks had a mixed performance during the 2022-2023 season. They finished with a record of 22-44-16, earning 60 points. Unfortunately, this placed them in 7th position in the Pacific Division, and they did not qualify for the playoffs.

Looking ahead to the 2023-2024 season, the San Jose Sharks have their sights set on improvement. Players like Kevin Labanc and Logan Couture will play vital roles in leading the team’s offensive efforts. The Sharks’ management and coaching staff are working towards developing a strong and competitive roster to strive for a more successful season.

The San Jose Sharks stick to the plan as they continue their rebuild into the 2023-24 season, and look to the future. – Photo Courtesy of the San Jose Sharks

What happens with Logan Couture?

Logan Couture, the veteran center for the San Jose Sharks, is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s upcoming 2023-2024 season.

Couture has consistently been a key player for the Sharks, known for his ability to score goals and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. With his experience and hockey intelligence, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the team and serves as a mentor to younger players.

In the 2022-2023 season, Couture showcased his offensive prowess by leading the team in scoring with 24 goals and 36 assists. Going into the 2023-2024 season, it is expected that he will continue to be a reliable source of offense for the Sharks.

Aside from his offensive contributions, Couture also brings a strong defensive presence to the team. He is known for his two-way play, often making important defensive plays and winning crucial faceoffs. His ability to excel in all facets of the game makes him an invaluable asset to the Sharks.

Overall, fans of the San Jose Sharks can expect Logan Couture to continue playing a significant role in the team’s success in the upcoming season. His offensive skills, leadership, and defensive abilities will make him a player to watch as the Sharks strive for improvement and aim for a more successful season.

Logan Couture will lead the San Jose Sharks as they stick to the plan as they continue their rebuild into the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the San Jose Sharks

What does the year hold for first time GM Mike Grier?

GM Mike Grier, the general manager of the San Jose Sharks, is heading into the 2023-2024 season with high expectations and a clear vision for the team’s success. Grier, who brings a wealth of experience as a former NHL player, is determined to build a competitive roster and guide the Sharks towards a more successful season.

Grier’s primary focus will be on building a balanced and competitive team that can perform well in all aspects of the game. He will strive to find the right blend of offensive firepower, solid defensive play, and reliable goaltending to give the Sharks a competitive edge.

Overall, GM Mike Grier is determined to lead the San Jose Sharks to a more successful season in 2023-2024. With his experience as a player and his commitment to building a competitive roster, Grier aims to make strategic moves that will propel the Sharks towards a spot in the playoffs and ultimately contend for the Stanley Cup.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI, NYR, OTT, PHI, PIT

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October 1, 2023
Pittsburgh Penguins Look to Regain Form

The Pittsburgh Penguins look to regain form as they enter the 2023-24 season with the goal of going back to the playoffs.

2022-23

Record: 40-31-11 (91 pts) – 5th in Metropolitan

Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

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Key Losses

Mikael Granlund (F – SJ), Jan rutta (D – SJ), Jeff Petry (D – MON), Casey DeSmith (G – VAN), Jason Zucker (F – ARI), Brian Dumoulin (D – SEA), Josh Archibald (F – TB), Ron Hextall (General Manager, Brian Burke (President of Hockey Ops)

Key Additions

Reilly Smith (F), Ryan Graves (D), Lars Eller (F), Noel Acciari (F), Matt Nieto (F), Kyle Dubas (President of Hockey Ops and General Manager), Erik Karlsson (D), Rem Pitlick (F)

2023-24 Preview

The Pittsburgh Penguins had a mixed season in 2022-23. They finished with a record of 40-31-11, earning a total of 91 points. This placed them in 5th position in the Metropolitan Division. Unfortunately, the Penguins did not qualify for the playoffs that year.

Sidney Crosby is going look to lead the Pittsburgh Penguins as they look to regain form as they enter the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Penguins

Who steps up in net for the Penguins?

Ultimately, to get to the promised land of the Stanley Cup Finals, you need solid goaltending throughout the playoffs.

The goaltending situation in Pittsburgh for the upcoming 2023-24 season will be an area of intrigue and importance. After the departure of Casey DeSmith to the Montreal Canadiens, the Penguins will rely on a new tandem to protect their net.

Leading the way is Tristan Jarry, who had a solid season last year. Jarry played in 54 games, recording a 29-18-6 record, a 2.63 GAA, and a .917 save percentage. He demonstrated his ability to be a reliable starter and made some noteworthy saves throughout the season. However, consistency will be key for Jarry as he aims to solidify his position as the team’s primary goaltender.

In the backup role, the Penguins brought in free agent signing Alex Nedeljkovic. Nedeljkovic is a young, seasoned goaltender with experience playing for the Detroit Red Wings. He is known for his competitiveness and ability to make timely saves. While he may not see as much playing time as Jarry, having a capable backup like Nedeljkovic is crucial to provide rest and support when needed.

Overall, the goaltending situation in Pittsburgh appears promising. With Jarry as the starter and Nedeljkovic as the backup, the Penguins have a duo that can potentially provide stability and confidence in the crease. The team will rely on their performances to help them compete and make a push for the playoffs in the upcoming season.

Kris Letang will have offensive support with the addition of Erik Karlsson as the Pittsburgh Penguins look to regain form as they enter the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Penguins

How will Erik Karlsson fare in the black and yellow?

Erik Karlsson, the talented defenseman, is set to embark on his first season with the Pittsburgh Penguins. After joining the team as a key addition in the offseason, there is much anticipation surrounding how Karlsson will perform in the black and yellow.

Known for his smooth skating, offensive prowess, and exceptional puck-moving abilities, Karlsson has proven to be a valuable asset throughout his career. With two Norris Trophies to his name, he brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Penguins’ blue line.

In Pittsburgh, Karlsson will have the opportunity to contribute to an already formidable defensive corps alongside the likes of Kris Letang. His ability to generate offense from the back end and his hockey IQ should complement the team’s offensive firepower, led by superstars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

However, like any player, Karlsson may face challenges as he adjusts to a new system and teammates. It will be interesting to see how he integrates into the Penguins’ style of play and how quickly he can establish chemistry with his new teammates.

Penguins fans are filled with anticipation and excitement as they eagerly await Karlsson’s debut in the black and yellow. If he can stay healthy and showcase his elite skills, there is no doubt that he has the potential to make a significant impact and contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI, NYR, OTT, PHI

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September 30, 2023
Philadelphia Flyers Continue Their Rebuild

The Philadelphia Flyers continue their rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season. Continued development will be the key to the season.

2022-23

Record: 31-38-13 (75 pts) – 7th in Metropolitan

Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

Key Losses

Ivan Provorov (D – CLB), Kevin Hayes (F – STL), James van Riemsdyk (F – BOS), Tony DeAngelo (D – CAR via Buyout), Justin Braun (D – Retired), Brendan Lemieux (F – CAR), Kieffer Bellows (F – UFA)

Key Additions

Marc Staal (D), Garnet Hathaway (F), Sean Walker (D), Cal Petersen (G), Ryan Poehling (F)

2023-24 Preview

The Flyers finished the season with a record of 31 wins, 38 losses, and 13 overtime losses, accumulating a total of 75 points. Unfortunately, this was not enough to secure a playoff spot, as they did not qualify for the postseason.

Joel Farabee is going to look to have a strong season as the Philadelphia Flyers continue their rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Philadelphia Flyers

Looking ahead to the 2023-2024 season, the Flyers have some promising players to watch out for. Carter Hart and Joel Farabee, are expected to play crucial roles in the team’s success.

The 2022-2023 season was a challenging one for the Philadelphia Flyers, as they fell short of a playoff berth. However, with new additions to the roster and talented players in their lineup, they will aim to kick off their re-build in 2023-2024.

2 Young Goalies, Who Steps Up?

The Philadelphia Flyers have an interesting goaltending situation heading into the 2023-2024 season. The team currently has two young goalies, Carter Hart and Cal Peterson, who will be competing for the starting role.

Carter Hart, a highly touted prospect, has shown flashes of brilliance in his career. Despite struggling with consistency in recent seasons, Hart has the potential to be a top-tier goalie in the league. The Flyers will be looking for him to regain his form and become a reliable presence between the pipes.

Carter will look to continue to be the number one goalie as the Philadelphia Flyers continue their rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Philadelphia Flyers

Cal Peterson, the newest addition to the Philadelphia Flyers’ roster, brings a wealth of talent and potential to the team’s goaltending department. As the Flyers head into the 2023-2024 season, let’s take a closer look at what we can expect from Peterson.

A skilled netminder, Peterson has displayed his abilities during his time with the Los Angeles Kings. Known for his athleticism, composure, and ability to make key saves, he has proven himself as a capable starting goaltender in the NHL.

While it’s difficult to predict exact statistics or outcomes, Peterson’s presence in the Flyers’ lineup is expected to bolster their goaltending depth and provide valuable goaltending options. His experience and skill set will be crucial in maintaining strong defensive performances and giving the team the best chance to win.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI, NYR, OTT

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September 29, 2023
Ottawa Senators Look Forward for Next Step

The Ottawa Senators look forward for their next step as they aim to make the playoffs during the 2023-24 season.

2022-23

Record: 39-35-8 (86 pts) – 6th in Atlantic

Playoffs: Did not Qualify

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Key Losses

Alex DeBrincat (F – DET), Cam Talbot (G – LA)

Key Additions

Vladimir Tarasenko (F), Joonas Korpisalo (G), Dominik Kubalik (F), Zack MacEwen (F)

2023-24 Preview

The 2022-2023 season was a mixed bag for the Ottawa Senators. They had a record of 39-35-8, earning 86 points and finishing 6th in the Atlantic Division. Unfortunately, they did not qualify for the playoffs.

Looking ahead to the 2023-2024 season, there is optimism surrounding the team. Players like Tarasenko and Brady Tkachuk are expected to make an impact. Can they take that next step in their re-building and make it back to the playoffs?

After signing a one year deal, the Ottawa Senators look forward for their next step as they aim to make the playoffs with Vladimir Tarasenko in the lineup. – Photo Courtesy of the Ottawa Senators

What lies ahead for Brady Tkachuk?

Brady Tkachuk is a key player for the Ottawa Senators heading into the 2023-2024 NHL season. Known for his physicality and scoring ability, Tkachuk is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s performance.

With a solid 2022-2023 season under his belt, Tkachuk will be looking to build on his success. He recorded impressive numbers, contributing significantly to the team’s offense. His combination of skill, grit, and leadership qualities make him a fan favorite and an integral part of the Senators’ roster.

In the upcoming season, Tkachuk will be tasked with leading the team and providing offensive firepower. With the addition of players like Vladimir Tarasenko and Dominik Kubalik, the Senators’ offense should receive a boost, and Tkachuk will play a vital role in capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

Moreover, Tkachuk’s physical presence and aggressive style of play will continue to make him a force to be reckoned with on the ice. He isn’t afraid to get involved in the physical battles and isn’t shy about dropping the gloves when needed.

Off the ice, Tkachuk’s leadership skills are highly regarded. As an alternate captain, he brings a level of intensity and passion that inspires his teammates. His work ethic and dedication to the game set a positive example for the young players on the team.

Overall, expectations are high for Brady Tkachuk in the 2023-2024 NHL season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching his performance as he continues to develop into one of the league’s top power forwards. With his skill set and determination, Tkachuk has the potential to make a significant impact and play a key role in the Senators’ quest for success.

The Ottawa Senators look forward for their next step as they aim to make the playoffs with Brady Tkachuk leading the way. – Photo Courtesy of the Ottawa Senators

How does Jake Sanderson’s sophomore campaign fare?

Jake Sanderson, the young defenseman for the Ottawa Senators, is heading into the 2023-2024 NHL season with high expectations. After a promising rookie campaign, Sanderson’s development and growth will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.

After his rookie season, he was handsomely rewarded with a long term deal to stay with the Ottawa Senators.

Known for his smooth skating and excellent defensive instincts, Sanderson has already shown tremendous potential at a young age. He possesses great poise and composure with the puck, making him a reliable presence on both ends of the ice. His ability to make smart decisions under pressure and contribute to the team’s transition game sets him apart.

In the upcoming season, Sanderson will be tasked with solidifying his role as a key defenseman for the Senators. With his strong defensive skills, he will be relied upon to shut down opposing forwards and contribute to the team’s penalty kill. Sanderson’s positioning and hockey IQ allow him to read plays well and make timely interventions.

Offensively, Sanderson has shown glimpses of his potential with his ability to join the rush and contribute to the team’s offensive output. While his primary focus will be on his defensive responsibilities, expect him to continue honing his offensive game and contributing to the Senators’ scoring chances.

Sanderson’s work ethic and dedication to improving his craft are commendable. He has a strong desire to be the best player he can be and to help the Senators succeed. As he continues to gain experience and confidence, his impact on the team is expected to grow.

Overall, the 2023-2024 NHL season holds great promise for Jake Sanderson. With his skill set, maturity beyond his years, and commitment to continuous improvement, he has the potential to emerge as one of the league’s top defensemen.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI, NYR

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September 28, 2023
New York Rangers Looking for a Bounce Back

After bowing out of the first round, the New York Rangers are looking for a bounce back season in 2023-24.

2022-23

Record: 47-22-13 (107 pts) – 3rd in Metropolitan

Playoffs: Lost to New Jersey in First Round

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Key Losses

Patrick Kane (F – UFA), Vladimir Tarasenko (F – OTT), Jaroslav Halak (G – UFA), Niko Mikkola (D – FLA), Tyler Motte (F – UFA), Gerard Gallant (Head Coach)

Key Additions

Blake Wheeler (F), Nick Bonino (F), Jonathan Quick (G), Tyler Pitlick (F), Erik Gustafsson (D), Peter Laviolette (Head Coach)

2023-24 Preview

The New York Rangers had a solid 2022-23 season, finishing with a record of 47-22-13 and accumulating 107 points. They secured the 3rd position in the Metropolitan division standings. However, their playoff run was cut short as they lost to the New Jersey Devils in the First Round.

Chris Kreider will look to continue to have another career year as the New York Rangers are looking for a bounce back season in 2023-24. – Photo Courtesy of the New York Rangers

Need for Change

Going into the 2023 offseason the Rangers decided to make a change behind their bench. Out was Gerard Gallant, and in was Peter Laviolette as head coach. With the change the Rangers also made some changes to their lineup as well.

After letting all of their trade deadline acquisitions walk in free agency, the Rangers were able to sign aging winger Blake Wheeler, as well as goaltender Jonathan Quick. Forwards Nick Bonino, Riley Nash, and Tyler Pitlick were also signed along with defenseman Erik Gustafsson as part of their mini revamp.

Stepping Up

The Rangers are going to be looking to their young kids Kaapo Kakko and Alexis Lafreniere to step up their games. Both players have yet to hit 20 goals in a season, and Kakko hit 40 points for the first time this past season, while Lafreniere was a point shy of hitting the 40 point mark.

While Lafreniere had a solid playoffs in 2021-22, both him and Kakko were non-existent against New Jersey in the first round. The Rangers are going to need their former 1st (Lafreniere, 2020) and 2nd (Kakko, 2019) overall picks to elevate their games this season, and prove that they were worth getting drafted so high in their respective drafts.

Mika Zibanejad and the New York Rangers are looking for a bounce back season in 2023-24. – Photo Courtesy of the New York Rangers

Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, the Rangers have high hopes. The team will rely on standout players such as Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad to lead the way. The Rangers’ fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating the start of the season to see how their team performs under the guidance of their new head coach and with the contributions of the new additions to the roster.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI

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September 27, 2023
New York Islanders Need to Face Reality

The New York Islanders need to face reality as they still have an aging core going into the 2023-24 season.

2022-23

Record: 42-31-9 (93 pts) – 4th in Metropolitan (Wild Card 1)

Playoffs: Lost to Carolina in First Round

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Key Losses

Josh Bailey (F – CHI), Zach Parise (F – UFA/Retired?)

Key Additions

Julien Gauthier (F)

2023-24 Preview

The New York Islanders had a solid performance during the 2022-23 season, finishing with a record of 42-31-9 (93 points), placing them 4th in the Metropolitan Division (Wild Card 1).

In the playoffs, however, the Islanders faced a tough challenge and were ultimately eliminated in the First Round by the Carolina Hurricanes.

Anders Lee will look to hit the 30 goal plateau, but the New York Islanders need to face reality as they are an aging core going into the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the New York Islanders

An Aging Core

The Islanders under Lou Lamoriello have gone through virtually zero changes over the last few years, and that’s not expected tp change either. Outside of the additions of Bo Horvat and Pierre Engvall at the trade deadline last season, and defenseman Alexander Romanov via trade at the 2022 draft, the Isles are essentially the same team. Kyle Palmieri is on his last legs, and has been for a while now, and the so-called “Identity Line” of Matt Martin, Casey Cizikas, and Cal Clutterbuck is laughable at best.

One saving grace for the Islanders is that they do have a young defensive core and a solid goaltender in Ilya Sorokin. However, offensively, the Islanders are truly a one line team. And with a more defense first approach to their game, they have stymied young offensive players from their true potential.

All Star goaltender Ilya Sorokin will be at his best as the New York Islanders need to face reality that they need vast improvements to their offense. – Photo Courtesy of the New York Islanders

Overdue for a Wakeup Call

The Islanders, and the Florida Panthers as well, should be thankful that both the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins had subpar seasons last year. It allowed both the Islanders and the Panthers into the playoffs when they really shouldn’t have.

Also, for the Islanders, they need to accept that Mathew Barzal is going to forever be the one dimensional player that he has always been.

This will be an interesting season for the Islanders, but let’s be honest. They need to face reality, and get a new set of eyes on this team.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ

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September 26, 2023
New Jersey Devils Look to Take Next Step

After an impressive 2022-23 season, the New Jersey Devils look to take the next step going into the 2023-24 season.

2022-23

Record: 52-22-8 (112 pts) – 2nd in Metropolitan

Playoffs: Lost to Carolina in Second Round

The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

Key Losses

Damon Severson (D – CLB), Ryan Graves (D – PIT), Miles Wood (F – COL), Yegor Sharagovich (F – CAL), Jesper Boqvist (F – BOS), Mackenzie Blackwood (G – SJ), Tomas Tatar (F – UFA), Andrew Brunette (Associate Coach)

Key Additions

Tyler Toffoli (F), Colin Miller (D), Tomas Nosek (F), Travis Green (Associate Coach)

2023-24 Preview

Jack Hughes would have a career year, and will look to do the same as the New Jersey Devils look to take the next step going into the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the New Jersey Devils

New Jersey took a big step last season and have asserted themselves into the conversation of being Stanley Cup contenders. The only thing that stands in their way is the Carolina Hurricanes who defeated them in round two after beating Hudson River rivals the NY Rangers in round one. This team showed they are a young force to be reckoned for years to come with with a young core that features Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt. That doesn’t even include the young Hughes brother in Luke who looks to play a big role on the back end this season after making his playoff debut and showed he belongs in this league. What’s even more scary, is there’s even more young talent to come to the Garden State on defense such as Simon Nemec. Despite losing Damond Severson and Ryan Graves on the back end, these two young kids have the talent and potential to fill those roles.

The Devils did go out and add a very nice piece to the top six by acquiring Tyler Tofoli from the Calgary Flames who will look really nice to either Jack Hughes or Nico Hischier. Re-signing trade deadline acquisition Timo Meier as well as RFA Jesper Bratt were huge moves that the Devils had to make. Meier once he got going in Jersey was a lot for opposing defenses to handle. Bratt showed last season that’s very capable of producing and putting up points for years to come and is a valuable asset in the top six. The Devils are one of the upperclassmen of the Metropolitan division but face stiff competition with the favorites in the Carolina Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Penguins who went out and acquired 100 point Norris Trophy wining defenseman Erik Karlsson to their mix. I see the Devils returning to the playoffs in one of the top three spots in the division. If New Jersey wants to go further, their defense and goaltending has to play at a higher and more elite level for them to get all the way to the top of the mountain. They certainly are capable, they just have to go out and do it now,

The 2022 offseason signing of Ondrej Palat proved huge, and the New Jersey Devils look to take the next step going into the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the New Jersey Devils

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS

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September 25, 2023
Nashville Predators Enter a New Era

The Nashville Predators enter a new era in the team’s history as Barry Trotz takes over as General Manager going into the 2023-24 season.

2022-23

Record: 42-32-8 (92 pts) – 5th in Central

Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

Key Losses

Ryan Johansen (F – COL), Matt Duchene (F – DAL), Mark Borowiecki (D – Retired), John Hynes (Head Coach), David Poile (General Manager)

Key Additions

Ryan O’Reilly (F), Luke Schenn (D), Gustav Nyquist (F), Denis Gurianov (F), Andrew Brunette (Head Coach), Barry Trotz (General Manager)

2023-24 Preview

The Nashville Predators had a mixed performance during the 2022-23 NHL season. They finished with a record of 42-32-8, accumulating a total of 92 points. This placed them in 5th place in the Central Division. Unfortunately, the Predators did not qualify for the playoffs.

Juuse Saros will look to continue his dominance between the pipes as the Nashville Predators enter a new era. – Photo Courtesy of the Nashville Predators

New Vision

At the conclusion of the 2022-23 season David Poile, the franchise’s only General Manager in team history, would retire, and Barry Trotz would take over as the new GM. With Trotz taking over the Predators, he would look to put his stamp on the organization. One of the first moves Trotz would do is relieve John Hynes as head coach, and name Andrew Brunette the new head coach. The moves would be symbolic to the Predators. Trotz was the first coach in Predators history, and Brunette was on the inaugural team and scored the franchise’s first career goal.

Personnel Changes

With Trotz overseeing the personnel, changes were bound to be made. Starting on offense, forwards Matt Duchene and Ryan Johansen were bought out and traded respectively. Inbound, Trotz would sign forwards Ryan O’Reilly, Denis Gurianov, and Gustav Nyquist. On defense, Trotz would add some grit by signing defenseman Luke Schenn. With these personnel changes, Trotz is looking to improve the Predators’ offense, which ranked 28th last season, and powerplay (27th).

As the Nashville Predators enter a new era, Ryan McDonagh will look to have another solid season with the Predators. – Photo Courtesy of the Nashville Predators

While the previous season did not result in a playoff appearance, the Predators are determined to bounce back and make a strong push for the postseason in the upcoming 2023-24 season.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON

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September 24, 2023
Montreal Canadiens Aim to Contend Once Again

The Montreal Canadiens aim to contend once again, but health and continued growth during the 2023-24 season will be needed.

2022-23

Record: 31-45-6 (68 pts) – 8th in Atlantic

Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

Key Losses

Joel Edmundson (D – WAS), Jonathan Drouin (F – COL), Alex Belzile (F – NYR), Denis Gurianov (F – NAS), Chris Tierney (F – NJ), Mike Hoffman (F – SJ), Rem Pitlick (F – PIT)

Key Additions

Alex Newhook (F), Tanner Pearson (F)

2023-24 Preview

For the Montreal Canadiens, they need to stay healthy if they aim to contend once again. The Habs have not had the best of luck in this category. Montreal had 751 man game lost last season, breaking the record of 720 they had set during the 2021-22 season.

Changes were made with the training staff as Graham Rynbend, the head athletic trainer, being dismissed after 19 years. Then, Donald Balmforth, the head physiotherapist, was also let go after two years. The replacements there with Jim Ramsay and Maxime Gauthier, respectively, should bring fresh eyes on overall player health.

Special teams is also one key piece of the puzzle that the Habs need to focus on. Montreal finished 29th in both the Power Play and the Penalty Kill. In order for both of these items to improve, the overall health of the line-up is important.

Despite the injuries the Canadiens had last season, there was a 13 point improvement. However, this will also be the second full season of a complete re-build process.

Montreal is possibly one year away from their re-build and aim to be in contention once again.

Nick Suzuki will look to continue to grow his game as the Montreal Canadiens aim to contend once again. – Photo Courtesy of the Montreal Canadiens

Offense

It is not a secret that the offense has not been a strong point for Montreal. Forward Nick Suzuki was the leading scorer at 66 points, good for 70th in the NHL. Forward Cole Caufield was on pace to have a 46 goal season, but he had a season ending shoulder injury. Montreal has not had a 40 goal scorer since Vincent Damphousse 30 years ago.

There also has not been a player finish in the top 10 in scoring since the 1985-86 season when Mats Naslund hit that mark. The Habs need to have the right momentum if they expect to contend once again.

Defense

This is a young defensive minded squad with five rookies last year that saw at least 39 games last season. The five rookies are relied on this season to keep things together. The defense allowed the 29th most goals on average last season at 3.72.

As the Montreal Canadiens aim to contend once again, Sam Montembeault will look to continue to improve between the pipes. – Photo Courtesy of the Montreal Canadiens

Overall Outlook

Montreal, as stated above, is at least a year away from possibly making any kind of postseason contention.

After 14 rookies saw action, including the 2022 top pick in Juraj Slafkovksy, health is very important. With this, there should be less of a reliance on the players in their AHL affiliate, so those players can be developed further.

With a healthy squad, Montreal should aim to contend once again and return to the postseason.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN

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September 23, 2023
Minnesota Wild Are Poised to Make Noise

The Minnesota Wild are poised to make noise in the 2023-24 season as they look to have a bigger impact in the playoffs.

2022-23

Record: 46-25-11 (103 pts) – 3rd in Central

Playoffs: Lost to Dallas in First Round

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Key Losses

John Klingberg (D – TOR), Ryan Reaves (F – TOR), Sam Steel (F – DAL), Gustav Nyquist (F – NAS), Oskar Sundqvist (F – STL), Matt Dumba (D – ARI)

Key Additions

Pat Maroon (F)

2023-24 Preview

The Minnesota Wild, who are poised to make a lot of noise once more this season, have not had any issue when it comes to advancing to the postseason. This season looks to be no different.

The Wild has not advanced to the second round since 2015 and for a team that has been near the top of the division, they would be knocked out in the first round by the Dallas Stars in six games.

Minnesota’s line-up is going to be a little different, due to $15 million tied up in the Zach Parise and Ryan Suter buyouts. Those buyouts plus key departures will make things a bit difficult. However, this should not stop Minnesota from making noise.

Kirill Kaprizov and the The Minnesota Wild are poised to make noise in the 2023-24 season as they look to have a bigger impact in the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Minnesota Wild

Offense

Kirill Kaprizov remains the biggest piece on offence for the Wild, despite missing a month last year with an injury. With Matt Boldy locked up after signing a seven year, $49 million extension, the two young stars should continue to have fantastic offensive numbers.

In addition, Marcus Johansson would be brought back after being acquired at the trade deadline for two years, $4 million and should be grouped with Boldy on the second line.

Defense

The Wild did not have any additions on defense but that should be okay.

Minnesota’s defensive presence last season was akin to their earlier years, and this season is hopefully more of the same, as they gave up the sixth fewest goals. The rookie campaign of Brock Faber, after leaving college last April, should be a nice jolt, with Faber showing excellent overall skills in the postseason games he participated in.

Marc-Andre Fleury will look to hit some career milestones as the The Minnesota Wild are poised to make noise in the 2023-24 season as they look to have a bigger impact in the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Minnesota Wild

Overall Look

If Minnesota can keep everything together, look for the Wild to go far in the postseason. This would be a delight not just for the entire organization, but for the fans as well. If the Wild can make all right moves, expect Minnesota to make a lot of noise and reach the Western Conference Final for the first time in 20 years.

Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA

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September 22, 2023