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Tag: NHL

  • Nashville Predators Enter a New Era

    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

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    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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  • Montreal Canadiens Aim to Contend Once Again

    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

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    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
    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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  • Minnesota Wild Are Poised to Make Noise

    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

    The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

    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
    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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  • Los Angeles Kings Look to Go Deep

    Los Angeles Kings Look to Go Deep

    After an impressive 2022-23 season, the Los Angeles Kings look to go deep during the 2023-24 season and playoffs.

    2022-23

    Record: 47-25-10 (104 pts) – 3rd in Pacific

    Playoffs: Lost to Edmonton in First Round

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    Key Losses

    Alex Iafallo (F – WIN), Gabriel Vilardi (F – WIN), Sean Walker (D – PHI), Sean Durzi (D – ARI), Cal Petersen (G – PHI), Joonas Korpisalo (G – OTT)

    Key Additions

    Pierre-Luc Dubois (F), Cam Talbot (G), Trevor Lewis (F)

    2023-24 Preview

    The 2022-2023 season was a mixed one for the Los Angeles Kings. With a record of 47-25-10 (104 pts), they finished 3rd in the Pacific Division. Unfortunately, their playoff run was cut short as they lost to the Edmonton Oilers in the First Round.

    Looking ahead to the 2023-2024 season, the Kings have high hopes for their roster. Players like Anze Kopitar and Quinton Byfield will continue to be key contributors to the team’s success. Fans can expect an exciting season filled with thrilling moments as the Kings aim to make a deeper playoff run.

    Anze Kopitar lead Los Angeles back to the playoffs, and the Kings will look go deep in 2023-24. - Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Kings
    Anze Kopitar lead Los Angeles back to the playoffs, and the Kings will look go deep in 2023-24. – Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Kings

    What are the expectations for Pierre Luc Dubois?

    Pierre-Luc Dubois, brings a lot of talent and potential to the team. The Kings are hoping that Dubois will contribute significantly to their offense.

    As a top-six forward, Dubois is expected to help generate scoring opportunities and contribute to the team’s success on the power play. With his size, strength, and skill set, he has the potential to make a significant impact on the ice.

    Overall, the expectations for Pierre-Luc Dubois are to be a key contributor to the Kings’ success, both on and off the ice. The team believes that his combination of skill, versatility, and hockey IQ will make him a valuable asset in the upcoming season.

    The Los Angeles Kings will look to continue to develop as the Kings look to go deep this upcoming season. – Photo Courtesy of the Los Angeles Kings

    What will Quinton Byfield provide for the Kings this season?

    Quinton Byfield, a promising young talent, is expected to bring a lot to the Los Angeles Kings this season. Known for his strong skating ability, playmaking skills, and scoring touch. Byfield has the potential to be a dominant force in the offensive zone, creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

    Overall, the Kings anticipate that Quinton Byfield will play an important role in the team’s success this season. They look forward to seeing him develop and contribute offensively, while also making strides in his overall game. Byfield’s potential and abilities make him an exciting player to watch, and fans can expect him to play a significant role in the Kings’ quest for success.

    What is the goaltending situation this season?

    The Los Angeles Kings have a solid goaltending situation heading into the 2023-2024 season. Cam Talbot, who was acquired in the offseason, is expected to be the team’s starting goaltender. Talbot brings a wealth of experience and has shown the ability to be a reliable netminder in the past. The Kings are counting on him to provide stability between the pipes and make key saves to keep the team competitive.

    Backing up Talbot, the Kings have a promising young goaltender in Joonas Korpisalo. Korpisalo has shown flashes of brilliance in his career and will be ready to step in when needed. With his athleticism and quick reflexes, he poses a strong challenge to opposing shooters.

    Overall, the Kings have a strong goaltending duo in Talbot and Korpisalo. They will play crucial roles in the team’s success, providing the stability and confidence needed to compete in the demanding NHL season.

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

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  • Florida Panthers Look to Replicate Success

    Florida Panthers Look to Replicate Success

    After making a surprise run to the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers look to replicate success in the 2023-24 season.

    2022-23

    Record: 42-32-8 (92 pts) – 4th in Atlantic (Wild Card 2)

    Playoffs: Lost to Vegas in Stanley Cup Final

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    Key Losses

    Radko Gudas (D – ANA), Marc Staal (D – PHI), Anthony Duclair (F – SJ), Alex Lyon (G – DET)

    Key Additions

    Oliver Ekman-Larsson (D), Evan Rodrigues (F), Niko Mikkola (D), Dmitry Kulikov (D), Anthony Stolarz (G)

    2023-24 Preview

    After making a surprise run to the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers look to replicate success in the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Florida Panthers

    The Florida Panthers certainly had one helluva run last season! They fought for their playoff lives until the very end of the regular season where the qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs and things only went up from there. Florida knocked off the Bruins who had the greatest winning regular season of all time in round one, then sent the Toronto Maple Leafs packing in five games, and then were totally unstoppable against the Carolina Hurricanes as they swept them booking their trip to the Stanley Cup Finals as Eastern Conference champions against the eventual champions in the Vegas Golden Knights. Their run was super impressive which was led by Matthew Tkachuk (others as well) who was a clutch goal scoring and physical machine against opposing defenders.

    While their run was one for the ages and super exciting, I do see the Panthers taking a little step back. I do think they will make the playoffs but teams will be more ready and prepared for them and Matthew Tkachuk in particular this time around. Losing Radio Gudas on the back end will hurt and Anthony Duclair as well. However, last year showed anything can happen and to not count anyone or especially this team out. The Panthers will be ones to keep your eyes focused in on, stay tuned!

    Aaron Ekblad will look to help guide Florida as the Panthers look to replicate success in the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Florida Panthers

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

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  • Will The Edmonton Oilers Finally Get Over The Hump?

    Will The Edmonton Oilers Finally Get Over The Hump?

    After making a couple minor changes, the Edmonton Oilers look to finally get over the hump in the 2023-24 season.

    2022-23

    Record: 50-23-9 (109 pts) – 2nd in Pacific

    Playoffs: Lost to Vegas in Second Round

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    Key Losses

    Kailer Yamamoto (F – SEA), Klim Kostin (F – DET), Nick Bjugstad (F – ARI)

    Key Additions

    Connor Brown (F), Lane Pederson (F), Drake Caggiula (F)

    2023-24 Preview

    The 2022-2023 season was a productive one for the Edmonton Oilers. With a record of 50-23-9 and 109 points, the team finished second in the Pacific Division. However, their playoff journey was cut short as they lost to the Vegas Golden Knights in the second round.

    Looking ahead to the 2023-2024 season, the Oilers have the potential to build upon their achievements and make another strong playoff run. With their core players and new additions, the team aims to continue their pursuit of success on the ice.

    Connor McDavid has been playing like Wayne Gretzky in the 1980's, but will he be able to help the Edmonton Oilers finally get over the hump in the 2023-24 season? - Photo Courtesy of the Edmonton Oilers
    Connor McDavid has been playing like Wayne Gretzky in the 1980’s, but will he be able to help the Edmonton Oilers finally get over the hump in the 2023-24 season? – Photo Courtesy of the Edmonton Oilers

    What will the season look like for Connor McDavid?

    Last season, Connor McDavid won the Hart Memorial Trophy, Art Ross Trophy, Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy, and the Ted Lindsay Award. He is only the second ever NHL player to accomplish this feat, (Alexander Ovechkin, 2008.)

    Connor McDavid is undoubtedly one of the most talented and dynamic players in the NHL. In the upcoming 2023-2024 season, fans can anticipate yet another stellar performance from McDavid.

    With his exceptional skills, McDavid is likely to continue dominating the game and putting up impressive numbers. He has consistently been a top point scorer in the league, and there’s no reason to believe that the upcoming season will be any different. McDavid’s combination of speed, skill, and hockey IQ make him a formidable player in every game he plays.

    Fans can expect him to continue to establish himself as one of the league’s premier players and play a significant role in the Oilers’ pursuit of success.

    Will the Edmonton Oilers get over the playoff hump in 2024?

    Ultimately, the success of the Oilers in the 2024 playoffs will depend on various factors, including team chemistry, performance under pressure, and matchups against other strong teams. However, with the right combination of skill, determination, and a bit of luck, there is definitely a possibility for the Oilers to overcome the playoff hump and make a deeper run in 2024.

    Zach Hyman will look to take his game to the next level as the Edmonton Oilers look to finally get over the hump in the 2023-24 season. - Photo Courtesy of the Edmonton Oilers
    Zach Hyman will look to take his game to the next level as the Edmonton Oilers look to finally get over the hump in the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Edmonton Oilers

    What will the goalie situation look like in Edmonton?

    Stuart Skinner’s performance in the upcoming 2023-2024 season will be a significant factor in the Edmonton Oilers’ goaltending situation. As a young goaltender with potential, Skinner will have the opportunity to establish himself at the NHL level and contribute to the team’s success.

    In the 2023-2024 season, Skinner will likely compete for playing time with other goaltenders on the roster. It is important to note that predicting the exact outcome of a player’s season is challenging, as there are many variables that can influence performance. Nevertheless, fans can expect Skinner to continue to develop and make strides in his career as he aims to contribute to the Oilers’ success both now and in the future.

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

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  • Detroit Red Wings Look to End the Rebuild

    Detroit Red Wings Look to End the Rebuild

    The Detroit Red Wings look to end the rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season as they have made some moves to indicate the rebuild is over.

    2022-23

    Record: 35-37-10 (80 pts) – 7th in Atlantic

    Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

    The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

    Key Losses

    Dominik Kubalik (F – OTT), Filip Zadina (F – SJ), Pius Suter (F – UFA), Adam Erne (F – UFA)

    Key Additions

    Alex DeBrincat (F), JT Compher (F), Shayne Gostisbehere (D), Justin Holl (D), Daniel Sprong (F), Klim Kostin (F), James Reimer (G), Jeff Petry (D)

    2023-24 Preview

    As the Detroit Red Wings look to end the rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season, Dylan Larkin will be looked to guide the Wings back to the playoffs. - Photo Courtesy of the Detroit Red Wings
    As the Detroit Red Wings look to end the rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season, Dylan Larkin will be looked to guide the Wings back to the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Detroit Red Wings

    For the Detroit Red Wings, they did at one point in late February look like they were going to make the postseason for the first time since the 2015-16 season. However, that did not happen as the Red Wings finished in seventh place in the Atlantic Division. Detroit was an undersized team and at times, they did not have great scoring depth.

    When free agency opened up, GM Steve Yzerman made moves to address the issues not only with the scoring depth but also the overall size of the team was improved as well. For a team that finished 24th in scoring last year, the additions of Alex DeBrincat, Daniel Sprong, as well as J.T. Compher should bring the offense back to where it should be.

    Overall, the Detroit Red Wings should be in a good spot to end the rebuild and find themselves in the postseason again but if that does not happen, there may be a lot more questions than answers pointed in the direction of Yzerman and the rest of the front office staff.

    Ville Husso will look to backstop Detroit to the playoffs for the first time since the 2015-16 season as the Red Wings look to end the rebuild as they enter the 2023-24 season. Photo Courtesy of the Detroit Red Wings

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

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  • Dallas Stars Look to get Over the Hump

    Dallas Stars Look to get Over the Hump

    The Dallas Stars look to get over the hump, as they made some moves to improve their offense going into the 2023-24 season.

    2022-23

    Record: 47-21-14 (108 pts) – 2nd in Central

    Playoffs: Lost to Vegas in Conference Final

    The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

    Key Losses

    Max Domi (F – TOR), Colin Miller (D – NJ), Joel Kiviranta (F – UFA), Luke Glendening (F – TB)

    Key Additions

    Matt Duchene (F), Sam Steel (F), Craig Smith (F)

    2023-24 Preview

    The 2022-23 season was a successful one for the Dallas Stars. They finished with a record of 47-21-14, earning a total of 108 points and securing the 2nd position in the Central Division. Although they fell short in the playoffs, losing to the Vegas Golden Knights in the Conference Final, the Stars put up a strong fight throughout the season.

    Jason Robertson would hit the 100 point plateau for the first time of his career, and will look to do so again in 2023-24 as the Dallas Stars look to get over the hump. - Photo Courtesy of the Dallas Stars
    Jason Robertson would hit the 100 point plateau for the first time of his career, and will look to do so again in 2023-24 as the Dallas Stars look to get over the hump. – Photo Courtesy of the Dallas Stars

    Waking up the Offense

    Offensively, the team showcased some remarkable talent. In 2022-23 the Stars proved they were no longer a one line team. Jamie Benn had a rejuvenation, plus Wyatt Johnston emerged as an offensive threat.

    Jason Robertson would also have a breakout season in 2022-23 for Dallas. The young forward showcased growth, and made significant contributions to the team’s success throughout the year.

    Robertson proved to be a consistent offensive threat as he would eclipse the 100 point plateau for the first time in his career. He demonstrated great hockey IQ and playmaking ability, often finding his teammates with precise passes and creating scoring opportunities. Robertson’s outstanding offensive performance was highlighted by his impressive point production, finishing the season with 46 goals and 63 assists. Both career highs.

    However, the Stars did make a few key additions to their roster during the offseason, including Matt Duchene, Sam Steel, and Craig Smith. These acquisitions brought depth and skill to the team with hopes that’ll get them back to the Stanley Cup Final.

    Defensive Support

    The Dallas Stars boast a formidable defensive corps that played a pivotal role in their success during the 2022-23 season. Led by established defenseman Miro Heiskanen, the Stars showcased solid play in their own zone and a strong blue line presence.

    Miro Heiskanen, considered one of the top young defensemen in the league, anchors the Stars’ defensive unit. With his exceptional skating ability, hockey intelligence, and strong defensive instincts, Heiskanen consistently shuts down opposing forwards and transitions the play up the ice. Heiskanen’s offensive contributions should not be overlooked either, as he acheived career highs in assists (62) and Points (73).

    The key question on defense will be that of Ryan Suter. Suter, who is in the third year of a four year deal, is a defensive liability and should be played as a third pairing defenseman. however, due to his contract and veteran status he’s been getting top pairing minutes. Suter is a player that should have been bought out, but wasn’t.

    Jamie Benn’s revitalization during the 2022-23 was key to the Dallas Stars success, however, he will need it to continue as the Stars look to get over the hump. – Photo Courtesy of the Dallas Stars

    Overall, the 2022-23 season was a positive one for the Dallas Stars, with strong performances from both the offense and defense. While they fell short in the playoffs, their regular-season performance showcased the team’s potential and competitiveness. With the right adjustments and continued development, the Stars have a promising future ahead.

    Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB

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  • Columbus Blue Jackets Get Defensively Better

    Columbus Blue Jackets Get Defensively Better

    After a very disappointing 2022-23 season, the Columbus Blue Jackets would get defensively better going into the 2023-24 season.

    2022-23

    Record: 25-48-9 (59 pts) – 8th in Metropolitan

    Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

    The Official Jersey Retailer of TXHT

    Key Losses

    Gavin Bayreuther (D – DAL), Brad Larsen (Head Coach)

    Key Additions

    Adam Fantilli (F), Damon Severson (D), Ivan Provorov (D), Alexandre Texier (F), Mike Babcock (Head Coach)

    2023-24 Preview

    The Columbus Blue Jackets had a challenging season in 2022-23. They finished with a record of 25-48-9, earning a total of 59 points. In the Metropolitan Division, they claimed the 8th position. Despite their efforts, the team did not qualify for the playoffs.

    With a new season ahead, Boone Jenner looks to lead the Columbus Blue Jackets as they get defensively better for the 2023-24 season. - Photo Courtesy of the Columbus Blue Jackets
    With a new season ahead, Boone Jenner looks to lead the Columbus Blue Jackets as they get defensively better for the 2023-24 season. – Photo Courtesy of the Columbus Blue Jackets

    An Offseason Change

    The Columbus Blue Jackets underwent a coaching change from Brad Larsen to Mike Babcock for the 2023-24 season. This change brought a new direction and leadership to the team.

    Brad Larsen had served as head coach for the Blue Jackets for the past two seasons. However, despite his efforts, the team struggled, finishing with a disappointing record and failing to qualify for the playoffs. As a result, the organization decided to make a change and bring in a new head coach.

    Mike Babcock, a highly experienced and once respected coach in the NHL, was appointed as the new head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets. With an impressive coaching career that includes winning a Stanley Cup and an Olympic Gold Medal, Babcock brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team.

    Babcock is known for his strong emphasis on defensive play and attention to detail. His coaching style prioritizes discipline, structure, and accountability, which can have a significant impact on a team’s performance.

    However, Babcock comes with some scrutiny as his time in Toronto ended on a sour note. There are multiple players that he coached in the past that have voiced their criticism about Babcock and his style of management and treatment of players. Babcock’s tenure with the Jackets will be heavily watched to see if he’s learned from his past mistakes, and has actually worked on bettering himself as both a coach, and a person.

    Under Babcock’s guidance, the Blue Jackets are hopeful that they will improve defensively and become a more competitive team in the 2023-24 season.

    Entering his second season in Columbus, Johnny Guadreau will look to help the Blue Jackets get defensively better. - Photo Courtesy of the Columbus Blue Jackets
    Entering his second season in Columbus, Johnny Gaudreau will look to help the Blue Jackets get defensively better. – Photo Courtesy of the Columbus Blue Jackets

    Getting Defensively Better

    Along with the addition of Babcock, the Blue Jackets would also go out and trade for defensemen Ivan Provorov (from Philadelphia) and Damon Severson (from New Jersey). The Jackets will also be getting back Zach Werenski, who only played 13 games due to injury. With these three defensemen the Jackets have improved there defensive corps tenfold.

    After leaving their goalies out to dry last season, the Blue Jackets look to shore things up defensively, and with the moves they made, they look to be going in the right direction.

    Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL

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  • Colorado Avalanche Look to Overcome Injuries

    Colorado Avalanche Look to Overcome Injuries

    The Colorado Avalanche look to overcome the injuries that did in their 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff run as they enter the 2023-24 season.

    2022-23

    Record: 51-24-7 (109 pts) – 1st in Central

    Playoffs: Lost to Seattle in First Round

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    Key Losses

    Evan Rodrigues (F – FLA), JT Compher (F – DET), Alex Newhook (F – MON), Denis Malgin (F – UFA), Lars Eller (F – PIT), Erik Johnson (D – BUF), Gabriel Landeskog (F – Injury)

    Key Additions

    Ryan Johansen (F), Jonathan Drouin (F), Miles Wood (F), Ross Colton (F), Fredrik Olofsson (F)

    2023-24 Preview

    The Colorado Avalanche had a strong 2022-23 season, finishing with a record of 51-24-7 and accumulating 109 points. They secured the top spot in the Central Division. However, their playoff run was cut short as they were defeated by the Seattle Kraken in the First Round.

    Alexander Georgiev was impressive in his first season as a starter, and will be looked to as the Colorado Avalanche look to overcome the injuries that did in their 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff run as they enter the 2023-24 season. - Picture Courtesy of the Colorado Avalanche
    Alexander Georgiev was impressive in his first season as a starter, and will be looked to as the Colorado Avalanche look to overcome the injuries that did in their 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff run as they enter the 2023-24 season. – Picture Courtesy of the Colorado Avalanche

    Overcoming Injuries

    Throughout the season, the Avalanche showcased their skill and talent on the ice, and they did it without their captain Gabriel Landeskog. On top of that, the Avalanche was one of the most banged up teams in the NHL during the 2022-23 season. They would lose more man games than almost any other team in the League.

    Despite the loss of their captain and being banged up for the majority of the season, the Avalanche were still a dominant presence in their division. However, they would fall to the Seattle Kraken in seven games in the first round.

    Mikko Rantanen would record 55 goals and 105 points for new career highs last season, and he will look to do the same as the Colorado Avalanche look to overcome the injuries that did in their 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff run as they enter the 2023-24 season. - Picture Courtesy of the Colorado Avalanche
    Mikko Rantanen would record 55 goals and 105 points for new career highs last season, and he will look to do the same as the Colorado Avalanche look to overcome the injuries that did in their 2023 Stanley Cup Playoff run as they enter the 2023-24 season. – Picture Courtesy of the Colorado Avalanche

    Moving Forward

    Going into the 2023-24 season the Avalanche will still be without Landeskog, who will miss the entire season, but they were able to make some solid additions during the offseason. The Avalanche would shore up the center position with the additions of Ryan Johansen and Ross Colton. They would also add wingers Jonathan Drouin and Miles Wood. Wood, who will add some grit to the fourth line, and Drouin, who will be more of a restoration project, both look to contribute to the Avalanche’s success.

    Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, the Avalanche have a promising outlook. With their strong roster and potential impact players, they have the potential to have another successful season on the ice.

    Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI

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