McKenney Goalie Gear: Complete Guide to Canadian-Made Custom Equipment

How to choose the right McKenney goalie gear. What factors influence proper equipment sizing. How to measure for goal pads, blockers, catchers, and more.

The Importance of Proper Goalie Equipment Sizing

Selecting the right goalie gear is crucial for optimal performance and protection on the ice. McKenney Hockey, a renowned Canadian manufacturer of custom goalie equipment, offers a comprehensive fitting guide to help players choose the perfect gear. While general sizing charts provide a starting point, it’s essential to consider individual factors that may affect equipment fit.

Proper sizing depends on various elements, including:

• Player’s height and weight
• Personal preferences
• Playing style
• Level of competition

For the most accurate fit, McKenney strongly recommends visiting a local dealer for professional fitting. However, their detailed sizing guidelines offer valuable insights for those unable to do so.

Measuring for McKenney Goal Pads: A Step-by-Step Guide

Determining the correct goal pad size is a critical aspect of a goaltender’s equipment. McKenney provides a simple yet effective method to estimate the appropriate pad size:

1. Measure from the floor to the mid-point of your kneecap while standing barefoot (Measurement A)
2. Measure from the mid-point of your kneecap to the desired pad height on your thigh (Measurement B)
3. Add your skate size and multiply by 0.75 (Measurement C)
4. Sum up these three measurements: A + B + C = Estimated goal pad size

For Measurement B, McKenney recommends using 2/3 of the inseam measurement from the mid-point of the kneecap up. For taller pads, 3/4 of this measurement can be used. When calculating Measurement C, it’s important to note that skate sizes above 10 should be capped at 10, as goal skate cowlings do not increase in size beyond this point.

Selecting the Right Blocker and Catcher: Age-Based Recommendations

McKenney offers specific blocker and catcher models tailored to different age groups:

• 5-9 years old: B / CG XPG1 Youth
• 9-12 years old: B / CG XPG1 Junior
• 12-14 years old: B / CG XPG1 Intermediate Pro
• Adult: B / CG XPG1 Pro

These age-based recommendations provide a general guideline for selecting the appropriate size and model. However, individual preferences and playing styles should also be taken into account when making a final decision.

Chest and Arm Protectors: Finding the Perfect Fit

McKenney offers a range of chest and arm protector sizes to accommodate goalies of various heights. Their sizing chart includes models for youth, junior, intermediate, and adult players:

• CA Pro Spec Youth: Medium (3’6″ to 3’9″) and Large (3’9″ to 4′)
• CA Pro Spec Junior: Small (4′ to 4’3″), Medium (4’4″ to 4’7″), and Large (4’8″ to 4’11”)
• CA Pro Spec Intermediate: Medium (4’8″ to 4’11”), Large (4’11” to 5’1″), X Large (5’1″ to 5’3″), and XX Large (5’3″ to 5’5″)
• CA XPG1 / Pro Spec: Small (5’1″ to 5’4″), Medium (5’5″ to 5’8″), Large (5’9″ to 6′), and X Large (6’1″ to 6’5″)

To ensure an optimal fit, McKenney Sports offers a unique customization option. For a small additional charge, goalies can combine different arm lengths with different chest pad sizes. This allows for a more tailored fit, addressing the common issue of arm length extending beyond the wrist line.

Goal Pants: Balancing Protection and Mobility

Proper-fitting goal pants are essential for both protection and freedom of movement. McKenney provides a comprehensive sizing chart for their goal pants, ranging from youth to adult sizes:

• GPT Pro Spec Youth: Medium/80 (18″-20″ waist) and Large/100 (20-22″ waist)
• GPT Pro Spec Junior: Small/120 (22″-24″ waist), Medium/140 (23″-25″ waist), and Large/160 (26″-27″ waist)
• GPT Pro Spec Intermediate Pro: Medium/46 (28″-29″ waist) and Large/48 (29″-30″ waist)
• GPT XPG1 / Pro Spec: Sizes range from Small/50 (30-31″ waist) to XXX Large/60 (41″-44″ waist)

When selecting goal pants, consider not only the waist size but also the overall fit and coverage. The pants should provide ample protection while allowing for a full range of motion during gameplay.

Hockey Player Pant/Shell Size Chart: A Comprehensive Overview

For players looking for regular hockey pants or shells, McKenney offers the HP 9000 series in youth, junior, and adult sizes:

• HP 9000 Youth Pro: Small (20″-21″ waist), Medium (21″-22″ waist), and Large (22″-23″ waist)
• HP 9000 Junior Pro: Small (22″-24″ waist), Medium (24″-26″ waist), Large (26″-28″ waist), and X Large (28″-30″ waist)
• HP 9000 Senior Pro: Sizes range from Small (28″-30″ waist) to XXX Large (38″-40″ waist)

When choosing hockey pants or shells, consider factors such as the level of protection needed, desired mobility, and personal comfort preferences.

The McKenney Advantage: Customization and Quality

What sets McKenney apart from other goalie equipment manufacturers? Their commitment to customization and quality is evident in several aspects:

• Canadian-made custom equipment
• Extensive size ranges to accommodate various body types
• Option to mix and match chest and arm sizes for optimal fit
• Professional-grade materials and construction
• Attention to player preferences and playing styles

By offering such a wide range of sizes and customization options, McKenney ensures that goalies of all ages and skill levels can find equipment that not only fits well but also enhances their performance on the ice.

The Impact of Proper Equipment Fit on Goalie Performance

Why is proper equipment fit so crucial for goaltenders? The right fit can significantly impact various aspects of a goalie’s game:

• Improved mobility and flexibility
• Enhanced puck-stopping ability
• Reduced fatigue during long games or practices
• Decreased risk of injury due to ill-fitting gear
• Increased confidence in equipment performance

By carefully selecting and fitting their McKenney goalie gear, players can ensure they have the tools they need to perform at their best on the ice.

Caring for Your McKenney Goalie Equipment

To maximize the lifespan and performance of your McKenney goalie gear, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips to keep your equipment in top condition:

• Air out gear after each use to prevent odor and bacterial growth
• Clean pads, blockers, and catchers regularly with appropriate cleaners
• Inspect equipment for wear and tear, addressing any issues promptly
• Store gear in a cool, dry place when not in use
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for washing and drying chest protectors and other fabric-based items

By taking good care of your McKenney goalie equipment, you can ensure it continues to provide optimal protection and performance throughout its lifespan.

Upgrading Your Goalie Gear: When Is It Time?

As goalies grow and their skills develop, it’s important to reassess equipment needs regularly. Signs that it might be time to upgrade your McKenney goalie gear include:

• Noticeable changes in body size or proportions
• Wear and tear affecting equipment performance
• Advancement to a higher level of play
• Changes in playing style or technique
• New technologies or innovations in goalie equipment design

Regularly evaluating your gear ensures you always have the right equipment to support your development as a goaltender.

The Role of Goalie Equipment in Player Safety

While performance is a crucial factor in choosing goalie gear, safety should always be the top priority. How does proper equipment contribute to player safety?

• Provides essential protection against high-speed pucks and collisions
• Reduces the risk of cuts, bruises, and more serious injuries
• Helps maintain proper body positioning and mechanics
• Offers peace of mind, allowing goalies to focus on their game

McKenney’s commitment to quality and safety is evident in their use of professional-grade materials and rigorous testing processes for all their goalie equipment.

The Evolution of Goalie Equipment: From Past to Present

How has goalie equipment changed over the years, and what role has McKenney played in this evolution? Let’s explore some key developments:

• Transition from leather to synthetic materials for improved durability and performance
• Introduction of lighter, more flexible padding for enhanced mobility
• Development of specialized chest and arm protectors for better coverage and comfort
• Advancements in goal pad design for improved sliding and puck deflection
• Integration of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial technologies in base layers

McKenney has been at the forefront of many of these innovations, continuously refining their products to meet the evolving needs of modern goaltenders.

The Psychological Impact of Well-Fitting Goalie Gear

Beyond the physical benefits, how does properly fitted goalie equipment affect a player’s mental game? Consider these psychological advantages:

• Increased confidence in equipment performance
• Reduced anxiety about potential equipment malfunctions
• Enhanced focus on gameplay rather than adjusting ill-fitting gear
• Improved body awareness and proprioception
• Greater sense of preparedness for on-ice challenges

By investing in well-fitting McKenney goalie gear, players can enjoy both physical and mental benefits that contribute to their overall performance.

Sustainable Practices in Goalie Equipment Manufacturing

As environmental concerns become increasingly important, how is the goalie equipment industry, including companies like McKenney, addressing sustainability? Some key areas of focus include:

• Use of eco-friendly materials in product manufacturing
• Implementation of recycling programs for used equipment
• Reduction of waste in the production process
• Development of more durable products to extend equipment lifespan
• Exploration of biodegradable alternatives for certain components

By prioritizing sustainability, manufacturers like McKenney can help reduce the environmental impact of goalie equipment production while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.

Canadian Made Custom Goalie Equipment #XPG1 \ McKenney Hockey \ Fitting Guide

Please note that all sizing charts listed below are only general guidelines for proper sizing of equipment. Many factors could cause differences from player to player including personal preference and different styles of play. We highly recommend players to be properly fitted by their local dealer.

Goal Pads

An easy way to properly measure and estimate for the appropriate size of goal pad is to take and add the following three measurements:

1. While standing in bare feet (No Shoes) measure from the floor to mid-point of your knee cap – (A)
2. Then measure from the mid-point of your kneecap to desired goal pad height on your thigh – (B) – (Note: this measurement is generally 2/3 of the inseam measurement from mid-point of kneecap up. If you would like a taller goal pad, 3/4 of this measurement can be used.)
3. Then add your skate size and multiply by 75% – X x 0.75 = (C) – (Note: you should only add up to size 10 skate as goal skate cowlings do not get larger over size 10).

Then add all three measurement (A) + (B) + (C) = your estimated goal pad size.

Blockers & Catchers

Chest & Arms

* Note: To ensure Proper fit McKenney Sports allows you to combine different arm lengths with different chest pad sizes for a small additional charge. (For example: Large chest with Medium arms) For Proper fit, make sure arm length does not go beyond wrist line.

Goal Pants

Hockey Player Pant/Shell Size Chart

Extreme Hockey & Sport – So Much More Than Hockey

McKenney Goal Protective Sizing Charts

Please note that all sizing charts listed below are only general guidelines for proper sizing of equipment. Many factors could cause differences from player to player including personal preference and different styles of play. We highly recommend players to be properly fitted by their local dealer.

* Note: To ensure Proper fit McKenney Sports allows you to combine different arm lengths with different chest pad sizes at no extra charge . (For example: Large chest with Medium arms) For Proper fit, make sure arm length does not go beyond wrist line. Contact Extreme Hockey & Sport for more details on how to order a custom Chest & Arms.

GOALIE PANTS

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Best Goalie Pads Reviewed [August 2021]

It’s August of, 2021. I never thought you’d get here. Aside from the elephant in the room, this year featured more goalie pads news than any in the past decade. From Lefevre breaking ties with CCM to Bauer and Warrior again breaking the goalie pad market, if you’re between the pipes there has never been a better time to buy new goalie pads.

What are the best goalie pads 2021? This is a pretty subjective question, depending on who you ask. For some, the answer may be Bauer. For others, the answer may be Vaughn. Or, you could meet in the middle. We should point out before we start though, these are not the best goalies pads for beginners. In this article we’re covering the top of the line, best of the best goalie leg pads, period.

This isn’t your grandmas guide to finding the right goalie leg pads. We’ve trained hundreds of elite goalies here at Goalie Coaches. We work closely with goalies who play in the NHL and require the best of the best.

To be crystal clear, these are the same pro level goalie pads your favorite NHL goalie is wearing.

Before we jump into our list, it’s important to note that for every set of goalie pads out there, there are lower end models of the same line.

While many ultimately decide simply based on the brand of gear they’ve always used, the best goalie pads are the ones that work well for you.

Keep that in mind as you go through your gear search.

For your money, the best goalie pads on the market today are the Lefevre L20.1 pads.  

Goalie leg pads have changed quite a bit over the years. In the past, leg pad manufacturers simply focused on making the lightest weight pads. Today, light weight matters, but so does important things like rebound control and strapping.

It’s also important to keep in mind certain key factors such as durability. The most durable goalie pads are not always the highest performing. This is due to the fact that performance is often associated with weight, and the best performing goalie pads do not necessarily use the heaviest or most durable material. In some cases, you can get the best of both worlds however.

Another thing to consider, the toe ties. If you’re buying Warrior, CCM, or Bauer, the toe ties are thin. If you’re going after Brian’s, the toe ties are a lot thicker (although, still very mobile).

True L20.1 (Best Overall)

The #1 Goalie Pad This Year

True L20.1

Lefevre isn’t a new brand, they’ve been the manufacturer behind CCM and Rbk gear from years past. This is without a doubt, the best goalie pad on the market right now.

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The True L.20.1 goalie pads are the consensus number one pair of goalie pads for 2021.  These are some of the newest released goalie pads on the market. Lefevre broke ties with CCM and immediately broke the goalie internet. The L.20.1 are their first set of gear not currently branded CCM and now branded True.

Positives

These are a lightweight and stiff pair of goalie pads, with really solid mobility.  The stiff internal board clears rebounds quickly and the Fast Rotation System creates a very elusive and responsive set of goalie pads.

Negatives

While being very mobile for a pair of stiff goalie pads, they’re not quite as agile as other soft goalie pads on the market.  Some goalies are more likely to prefer pads such as the L.12.1 pads from Lefevre over these ones.   Simply because they are far more flexible and you can move a lot easier in them.

Overview of the L20.1 Goalie Pads

Listen, if you aren’t sure who or where Lefevre came from, we’ve an article explaining everything on the site here.  But let me start with saying that you can most definitely trust these guys, and you probably have if you’ve worn CCM pads before.

These are some of the best all around goalie pads that you can get for this season, for a couple reasons.  One, True (Lefevre) makes very high quality and durable gear.  If you’ve worn CCM goalie pads before (in the last couple years), you were most likely wearing pads that were built by Lefevre.

Next up, these pads are lightweight.  Maybe not as light as the Bauer Hyperlite pads, but not super heavy either.  This is helpful as a goalie so you aren’t going to be dragged down by your equipment.  Any amount of weight cut off without having to sacrifice protection is a win in my books.

Three, they’re designed for optimal movement, despite the stiff internal board.  They feature what is called the Fast Rotation System (FRS) and essentially what it does is makes dropping into the butterfly quicker.  It removes any restrictions that may have previously gotten in the way, allowing for a clean drop.  These pads also sit higher up on the leg which helps create space to move well.  The boot is also flexible and set at 90 degrees, allowing for maximum mobility in the ankles.

And lastly, and maybe the most important aspect of these goalie pads are how well these pads clear rebounds.  Because they are a stiffer pad, there’s obviously going to be less energy lost when the puck hits the pad, which results in the puck bouncing well out of the crease.

Overall, it’s hard to argue against the True L20.1 goalie pads as the number one overall.  They’re lightweight, built to last and are a responsive set of pads.

CCM Extreme Flex 5 (Best Agility)

The new CCM E-Flex 5 pads are a continuation of the Extreme Flex lineup.  The original E-Flex pads came out many years ago and CCM (like many goalie brands) have been alternating between lineups when they release a new pad.  Last year’s model was the first edition of the Axis, previously the Premier.  

The first big takeaway of the Eflex 5 pads is that they’re designed to keep rebounds in tight.  This is unlike a lot of goalie pads in 2021 that generally encourage sending rebounds far away, quickly.  

What this allows you as a goalie to do is control your rebound easily and effectively.  You’ll be able to cover up a loose puck faster, knowing where the puck is going to go.  Fundamentally putting the puck where you want it to go is the best way a goalie can control a hockey game.  

And as a goalie, if you are able to control the hockey game, you’re more likely to get a win for your team.  Bottom line, these pads help you control your rebounds which sets off a positive chain reaction.  

The knee area has been improved as well.  You’ll feel better stability in the butterfly and effectively close the seal to ice a bit more.  This is especially nice in the VH and RVH.  

The CCM E-Flex 5 pads also feature a single break.  This is designed so you can close your five-hole faster as you drop into the butterfly.  

Lastly, these are a comfortable pair of goalie pads to wear.   They’re easy to strap on with only a couple straps and the mobility is dynamic.  

Really the only reason to avoid these pads would be personal preference.  Some goalies are more apt to getting a stiff pair of pads that send rebounds flying out to the blue line.  That’s ok.  Go with a pair of True L20.1 or Bauer Vapor Hyperlites.  Each goalie has his or her own taste and that’s what makes the game special.  

Overall these pads from CCM are designed for those of you that want an agile and flexible pair of pads.  

Bauer Vapor Hyperlite (Best Performance)

Bauer Hyperlite Goalie Pads

Some of the most technologically advanced goalie pads ever made by Bauer, and the closest pad to the Bauer Supreme UltraSonic line. These pads do not disappoint!

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Building off a similar feel to the Vapor 2X Pros, the Hyperlites are a somewhat stiff pair of pads that are well known for being lightweight.  This is how Bauer has really made a name for themselves in the goalie industry, by creating responsive, lightweight equipment.  

But that generally comes at the cost of quality.  When it comes down to it, there are tradeoffs to make.  You might sacrifice a little bit of quality if you get these pads, but there really isn’t a lighter and more responsive pair of goalie pads on the market.  You could argue that the UltraSonics are on a similar level, which you would be correct.  But besides those two, nothing comes close.  

One big difference from the old 2X Pro pads and the updated Hyperlites is that these have a softer knee area.  So you get a little bit more of a bend/ flex, which you didn’t see much of in the previous Vapor pad.  The effective rebound control of the Hyperlites is still shown in these goalie pads however.  

Another change that Bauer has implemented is a new and improved knee block.  The UltraSonics featured a one piece knee block – something we hadn’t seen before in previous pads.  This was super effective in energy transfer and ultimately created better stability in the butterfly.  The knee block in the Hyperlites are better to where the weight has been decreased by 30%.  In all, you get a lighter pad and an even stabiler base.  

Lastly, the Vapor Hyperlites feature a new COR Tech Skin Plus.  When the original 1S pads came out many years ago, they featured COR TECH Skin.  Bauer has improved it over the years, but this appears to be the biggest upgrade yet.  This is big news because it will hopefully give extra lifetime to these goalie pads. 

Some reasons why you might not want to buy these pads.  Well for one, Bauer, despite improving the quality of their pads over the years, still has a tough reputation for creating pads that don’t last very long.  Now, I will argue that the quality has most definitely improved over the years and this is something you shouldn’t be worried about.  But, the concern is still there.  

Two, the pads are a bit stiffer than other options out there, such as the CCM E-Flex 5 pads.  Some goalies (myself included) prefer stiff pads, because I like the pop of the rebound.  But that isn’t everyone’s favorite style, which might be a softer pad.  If that’s you, go with another pad on the list.  

And lastly, the price is pretty absurd.  But if you are buying elite tier goalie pads, you know the price is never cheap.  But that’s what elevates one pad from the next.  

Overall, I really do like the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite pads as the best performing goalie pads on the market.  

True Lefevre L12.2

The True L12.2 are another top pair of goalie pads for 2021.  These are the latest pads True has released to the market.  

As many of you know, True recently bought out Lefevre in the past year.  This was a massive change in the goalie industry and we saw many NHL goalies switch over to True.  The latest version of the leg pad that the goalie company has released is the L12.2.  Which are an updated version of the L12.1 pads.

Positives

The L12.2 are a softer pair of pads that are designed to be responsive and quick.  They’re a bit more flexible and softer than the True L20.1 pads, which are designed to pop rebounds off into the corner in an instant.  The L12.2 are a bit more similar to the E-Flex 5 pads in a way that rebounds aren’t going to jump out as far.  That being said, these are more agile and flexible than the former.  

What really takes these goalie pads to the next level is it’s patent-pending Fast Rotation System.  What it does is helps keep your calf connected to your pad while also allowing you to drop into the butterfly faster.  Playing goalie is a game of milliseconds and any extra time that you can pick up when trying to stop a puck is the difference between getting scored on and making the save. 

True L12.2 Leg Channel

These pads also have a really good seal to the ice.  In today’s age of playing goalie, this is a must feature in a pair of pads.  We’ve all been there when a puck just barely slipped under the pad and in.  A pair of goalie pads with a great seal will effectively close that gap and help you stop more pucks.  

Lastly, what puts these goalie pads at the top of the pack is the quality of True Lefevre pads.  Just under half of the NHL is wearing a set of True’s, which goes to show the quality and performance that these pads have to offer.  

Negatives

That being said, a review of a pair of goalie pads wouldn’t be a review without some negatives.  You’ll find that these pads are a bit heavier than pads such as the Bauer Hyperlites. In return however you will likely get a more durable set of pads.  

Price-wise these pads aren’t cheap.  You’ll definitely be putting a large investment into them to enjoy their features.  Many people would argue that the price makes it not worth it.  But I would tend to disagree.  These goalie pads will last you many years and if for some reason you decide to move on (outgrow them, change teams, etc…) these pads will hold a lot of their value when it comes time to sell.  

Overall

Overall, it’s hard to say that the True L12.2 goalie pads aren’t some of the best overall goalie pads on the market right now.  There are lighter, more innovative pads out there, but these come with everything. Quality, performance, and innovation to help you perform.  

Warrior Ritual G5 Pro (Most Innovative)

The Warrior Ritual G5 Pro+ goalie pads are the next best and most innovative goalie pads you can get.  For many years I’ve been very impressed with the quality of gear that Warrior has been releasing to the public, especially with their goalie sticks, but these pads are on a whole new level.

Positives

While Warrior leg pads aren’t currently used in the NHL, they are absolutely a pro level goalie pad. Warrior has created a reputation of pushing the envelope, and the G5 series is no different.

The Warrior Ritual G5 Pro+ goalie pads are very technologically advanced.  They feature what is called CoverEdge+ technology that cuts off the angle to the shooter better than other pads.  Essentially taking up more space in the net, without doing any additional work.  These are also very comfortable to wear and super mobile.  I’m personally a huge fan of these pads and think that they’re highly underrated.

Negatives

As a fan of stiff internal board goalie pads, these don’t really fit that bill.  They’re decently stiff, but not quite like the L20.1 pads or the Bauer UltraSonics.  This does make these pads almost perfect for those of you that prefer a somewhat stiff yet somewhat not stiff pads.

Warrior Ritual G5 Pro Overview

If you haven’t worn Warrior goalie pads before, you might be skeptical.  “But Tyler, no NHL goalie wears Warrrior!”  Yeah yeah, I hear you.  I’m actually super disappointed that there isn’t an NHL goalie wearing the brand, simply because I think they could be waaay more attention then they have right now.  These pads are super advanced, but highly underrated.

For one, the G5 Pro’s are super lightweight.  As I said with the Lefevre goalie pads above, elite pads HAVE to be lightweight in this day and age.  These ones are exactly that, very lightweight.

Two, these pads are super comfortable, easy to wear and easy to move around in.  The leg channel features what is called “ActiveDrop” and it’s very similar to the Fast Rotation System in the L20.1 pads.  It creates a clean drop into the butterfly from the upright position.  Taking up more space in the butterfly area, while also allowing you to hold your edges longer.

Three, Warrior pads are actually quite durable.  Whether it’s the material they use, the design of the pads, or a combination of both – I’m not sure, but these goalie pads are built to last.  But then again, nobody sees this aspect of Warrior because not a lot of people are wearing them, unfortunately.

Four, Warrior has brought back the Airslide technology that they introduced in their GT2 Pro lineup of pads.  Airslide is where Warrior implemented grooves on the sliding surface of the pads to increase the slip.  There’s less sliding surface on the pad actually touching the ice, which decreases the amount of friction as well.  It’s an interesting yet very unique concept that works, especially for late in the game when the ice is torn up in the crease.

And the last feature on these pads that I want to talk about is the CoverEdge+.  This is something that we have not seen from any goalie brand to date, unless my knowledge is missing me somewhere.  But what this does for you is adds a tilt to the tops of the pads, cutting off the angle to net better.

Think of it like you are skating out to challenge the shooter.  The angle of your stance and the distance you are to the net, affect how much room the goalie has to score.  The further out you are, the more net you’re going to cut off.  The problem with going out to far though is that you might end up getting caught, especially if it’s a two-on-one or two-on-zero.

The CoverEdge+ will help take off that net surface area, even though you might be further back in the net.

Bauer Supreme UltraSonic (Best Rebound Control)

If you are looking for a pair of goalie pads that have supreme rebound control and overall performance, the Bauer Supreme UltraSonic goalie pads are the way to go.

Positives

Bauer has been the most popular goalie pad brand on the market for creating EXTREMELY lightweight goalie pads with incredible rebound control.  I mean pucks are just bouncing off of these pads out to the blue line no problem.  The UltraSonics are (obviously) in the same boat as those other Bauer pads, except better now in a lot of ways.  If you are ultimately looking for a high performing pair of goalie pads, these are them.  Check for the best price of them here.

Negatives

I’m a sucker for lightweight goalie pads.. I just am.  But the problem with Bauer is that they’re notorious for creating goalie pads that just don’t last.  The Bauer Vapor 2X Pro goalie pads were a huge improvement over the 2S’s, but there is still room for improvement.  Bauer is claiming that the CorTech skin that is wrapped up on the outside of these pads makes these the most durable goalie pads from Bauer in a couple years.  I will only believe it when I see it though.

Bauer Supreme UltraSonic Goalie Pads Overview

The Bauer Supreme Utlra Sonic pads are some of the lightest pads that you can get for this season.  The biggest problem with Bauer pads in the past was the durability.  Finally, Bauer has updated the CorTech Skin to create a more durable external skin.  It’s now stronger and less likely to tear or break down.  Being that it’s only been a couple months since the release, it’s hard to know for sure the life line of them, but I’m excited to see the upgrades.

New in the UltraSonics is the one-piece knee block.  In (most) goalie pads, there are multiple different pads in the knee block, velcro’d together.  In the UltraSonics the knee block is only a single piece.  What this does for you is creates far better energy transformation from your body to the ice.  Helping you move quicker and more efficiently in the butterfly.

It also adds to the stability of the pads, while in the in butterfly.

Something else that I really like in the Supreme UltraSonic goalie pads is the seal on the ice, and in the RVH.  These are a squareish looking set of pads, which ultimately helps improve seal.  You do have to pay the price with the stiff internal board however to get this.

Lastly, I love the rebound control of these pads.  CurvComposite board sends pucks flying off very quickly and with a lot of power.  I fell in love with this technology from Bauer when they released the Bauer Supreme 2s Pro pads, and it’s been keeping me inline with Bauer goalie pads since.

Performance-wise, I don’t think that you are really going to find a better pair of goalie pads.  They’re super lightweight and comfortable, while also having great rebound control.  The biggest problem that these goalie pads might have is the durability, but with the new and improved CorTech skin I think the durability is going to keep these pads alive for a long time.

Vaughn Velocity V9 Pro Carbon

The Vaughn Velocity V9 Pro Carbon pads are an elite pair of goalie pads.  New for 2020, they’ve implemented some nice upgrades in these pads compared to previous Vaughn pads.  The first one, Quick Slide Technology on the inner channel for better sliding in the crease.  Sliding technology amongst every goalie brand has been getting better year after year, and it’s good to see Vaughn upping their game here.

Vaughn has also made some other changes.  They’ve put a new board in these pads with a lot more pop to them.  Rebounds are sent a bit further than before in previous models.  The panel has also been reduced in width to create a thinner pair of pads that weigh less.  And finally, the strapping system on the V9 Pro Carbon’s has been changed for the better.  The straps are now better fitting and more comfortable than ever.

Vaughn seems to really stick to their designs and models, so it’s fun to see some upgrades in their current lineup.

Advantages: 

• Lighter than before
• New, thinner board
• Better rebound control
• Comfortable
• Known durability

Disadvantages: 

• Price
• Compared to Bauer and Warrior, these pads aren’t very technologically advanced

Brian’s OPTIK 2 

I absolutely love Brian’s. The Brian’s OPTIK 2 are some of the best goalie pads on the market if you take money out of the equation. If you’re looking for the most durable goalie pad, as well as the highest performing gear, I firmly believe that you cannot go wrong with anything from Brian’s or Warrior.

With that being said, the OPTIK 2 is a better option for somebody who wants a top of the line custom pad. Brian’s may not be able to do what Bauer’s digital printing does, but they cannot be touched in terms of high quality custom.

Not only are the Optik 2 pads very durable, they are also some of the best performing pads that you can get.  They have a great seal on the ice, slippery material on the inside channel and are lightweight.  Brian’s also implemented a new strapping system in these pads that create a more comfortable feel while playing hockey.

Lastly, the Optik 2’s have awesome rebound control.  Since they are a stiffer pad, pucks bounce very far off of them.

Advantages 

• Great seal on the ice
• Solid slip on ice
• Rebounds fly off these pads
• High quality and pads
• New strapping system
• Lightweight (4.6lbs)

Disadvantages

• Expensive
• Some goalies aren’t huge fans of stiff pads

CCM Axis Pro

The CCM Axis Pro goalie pads are CCM’s newest release for 2020.  They’re very technologically advanced and lightweight.  They are designed for ultimate comfort, protection and lightweight.  They are a stiff pad (my favorite) that send pucks flying off into the corner.  If you are a wide butterfly goalie, these are also designed for you.

The Axis Pro pads are really an all around quality pair of pads.  The seal on the ice is tight, they are slippery in the butterfly, and the rebound control on these pads is pretty good considering the break up with Lefevre. Not only that, but the strapping system is comfortable and easy to adjust.  Predator’s goalie Jusse Saros wore these pads during the Covid play-ins last August.

Now despite all the positives, these goalie pads are going to feel different from the Lefevre pads that CCM used to use.  You’ll definitely feel a difference, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing!

Advantages:

• Stiff
• Lightweight
• Good rebound control
• Tight seal on the ice
• Comfortable

Disadvantages:

• Expensive
• Despite all of the positives, they feel a little weird

Warrior GT2 Pro

Warrior GT2 Pro Goalie Pads

The Warrior GT2 Pro were the pads that really put Warrior on the map for their innovative technology. These pads are snug but very comfortable and have a great seal on the ice. Especially in the RVH.

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Honestly, there isn’t a ton of difference between the GT2 and the G4 lines, other than the GT2 was released more recently. Warrior will be out with a new line soon, so now is the perfect time to pick up a set of GT2’s or G4 gear. We tested the GT2 extensively, during the time we were using the Bauer Vapor 2X line on a daily basis.

Performance wise, the GT2 set and the Bauer Vapor 2X were just about equal. Warrior has the upper hand on the durability end of things, even if Bauer is pushing closer and closer. I seriously think that this comes down to customization.

The biggest thing I personally was not a fan of with these Warrior pads was the sliding capability. Yes, they slide like butter. But the Airslide on the G5 lineup is unbelievable. Oh well, I guess.

Advantages 

• Super lightweight
• Fast transition from upright to butterfly with a tight seal
• Standard Warrior strapping (very easy to use)
• Tighter leg channel
• Good rebound control

Disadvantages

Related: Best Goalie Sticks

Bauer Vapor 2X

The Bauer Vapor 2X series is the next best pad series on the market right now, here’s why. When it comes to a “best of the best” style article about goalie equipment, we consider these things. First, cost compared to performance. Second, durability, third, the ability to customize.

After using these for nearly a year, part of which was an actual 30+ game season of high level hockey: I believe that the Vapor 2X pad is the most durable of Bauer’s Vapor / Supreme pads in recent years.  The only Bauer pads that are more durable than these ones are the Ultra Sonics.  But still, the 2X pros were quite durable, and even still they are performing great.

The Bauer Vapor 2X line entered the market as one of the more expensive pad options for goalies. Then, Bauer changed the game and started to allow digital printing for everybody. As it stands, these pads perform just as well if not better (depending on who you ask) as the other top pads on the market.

Advantages 

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Simple strapping system
• Good rebound control
• Customizable graphic

Disadvantages

CCM E Flex 4

CCM E Flex 4 Pro Goalie Pads

The CCM Eflex 4 Pro goalie pads were super popular amongst NHL goalie during the 19-20 season. They’ve got a good seal to the ice and are mobile. Overall a lot of goalies have enjoyed the E Flex 4 pads.

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The stock graphic on the new E Flex 4 is one of the better stock graphics on gear. It’s far better than the graphic on the Vapor pads, but not quite as good as the OPTIK 2 stock graphic.  (Just my opinion)

Graphics aside, the E Flex 4 is a tremendous pad in terms of durability and performance.  They have a nice seal on the ice and are fairly mobile.  Many NHL goalies had been using the E Flex 4 pads, until Lefevre released their latest pads.  (Most goalies using the E Flex 4’s switched to Lefevre because of similarities.)

I think that the E Flex 4 is truly one of the best all around setups, if you want to buy a matching, complete set. Bauer’s glove improved quite a bit from the 2S to the 2X, but it’s not quite as good as the 590 break made famous by Lefevre (CCM). More on that another day.

Out of the box, you won’t go wrong with a custom set of E Flex 4 gear. Of all goalie gear on the market, you’re most likely to like the CCM glove. CCM is also a great glove for beginners, as it’s the most natural feeling. It may not be the most broken in right out of the box (Warrior and Brian’s get that nod), but it’s one of the most widely used for good reason.

Advantages 

• The ice seal with the E Flex 4 is one of the best on the market
• CCM Speed Skin is comparable to Bauer’s sliding gusset on Vapor / Supreme lines
• The CCM E Flex 4 is most versatile goalie pad

Disadvantages

• Break in period on glove is longer than other brands
• No custom graphic option

Vaughn Ventus SLR2 

Vaughn has been the brunt of a lot of criticism in recent years. While many brands were innovating, Vaughn stood behind what they know best. A solid pad built to last a long time, with customization options for goalies.

I’m always a bit surprised with Vaughns representation in the NHL, with the options available to professional goalies. However, it’s a testament to their build and performance. The Ventus SLR pads are a true butterfly style goalie pad, though I’m not sure that term makes any sense these days.

Advantages 

• The best rebound control pad from Vaughn, ever
• Flat pad face design

Disadvantages

• Extended break in period
• Vaughn pads have a tendency to “break down” faster than other brands
• Vaughn gloves are typically not loved

Related: Best Goalie Skates

Can’t afford any of these? Here are the best quality, affordable pads

It’s hard to believe that the days of the Bauer 2S and the CCM Premier 2 are for the most part behind us, even though they’re still being used in the NHL. And we probably could include them on the top pads for this year, but I don’t think it makes a ton of sense.

These would be great buys if you’re wanting a top of the line pad on a budget, but they’re not going to feature the technology that each pad company gets to sell on a yearly basis.

Bauer 2S Pro

Advantages 

• Incredibly light
• One of the best goalie pads for the money on the market, still
• Superior rebound control
• On sale now

Disadvantages

• Notorious for their durability, which trails other leading brands like True and Brian’s.

Warrior Ritual G5+

Warrior G5+ Goalie Pads

The G5+ pads from Warrior are the model below the g5 Pro+ pads. Very similar in performance, these pads are built with slightly less quality materials. Still a great set of pads.

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The Warrior Ritual G5+ pads are the next best pads in the new G5 lineup, underneath the G5 Pro pads.  They aren’t as technologically advanced as the former, but they are a great pair of pads for any budget goalie.  We here at GoalieCoaches are fans of Warrior, simply because they make quality gear.

These pads slide well, are comfortable and feature a lot of the same advances that the elite pads have.  360 Active drop, AirSlide, and the forward tilted Coveredge.  So essentially the same pads, made with slightly less quality material.  There are some small tweaks that make this pad a little bit less in terms of quality and performance, but they are also almost half the price of the G5 Pro’s.

Conclusion: Best Goalie Pads For 2021

Goalie pads are not that cheap, but if you purchase a great pair, it can be one of the best investments you can make.  For playing hockey that is… Playing hockey in a comfortable, durable and high performing pair of pads is far more exciting than playing hockey in pads that aren’t.  Take it from us, we’ve been there.

Got this far, still have questions? Check out our “How to Measure Goalie Pads” guide for some of the most frequently asked questions on goalie gear.

Hope this article helped you out and thanks for reading!

90,000 McLean’s old uniform inspired fans

VANCOUVER – The blue line was not far from the entrance to the ice where Zamboni exited, but even after 16 seasons in the NHL, Kirk McLean was nervous.

McLean still plays hockey with the Vancouver Canucks veterans, but only as a forward. McLean, 53, hasn’t worn a goalkeeper jersey since retirement in 2001, so he was nervous before having to climb 75 feet in full goalkeeper gear in a crowded Rogers Arena to celebrate the club’s 50th anniversary before playing the Los Angeles Kings. ” on Wednesday.

“The most difficult thing was skating on the ice with goalkeeper skates,” said McLean, who added that he did a few workouts this week.

Tweet from @InGoalMedia: Kirk McLean, who never plays goal anymore, skates out for the Canucks home opener 50th anniversary introductions in the skate jersey and a perfect replica of his old set up, courtesy of @the_goalie ��� gorgeous https: //t.co/JNrk1JXI6E

The public reaction was worth any risk.

McLean, who played for the Canucks between 1987 and 1998, received a thunderous ovation as he rode out onto the ice and joined the company of current and former players in a ceremony in which Bo Horvath was also introduced as the 14th captain. ” Vancouver “. But the public reaction to the videos and photos circulated online, in which McLean donned a replica of the old black-orange-yellow uniform, was even more powerful.

“It was amazing,” McLean said on Thursday. “I got off the ice and started getting a ton of messages.I just finished answering everyone this morning, but the comments were nice to read. It’s also great that a lot of people were touched by this on social media. Someone smiled, someone shed tears and was nostalgic. It was a good moment. “

Tweet from @ braveman91: Gotta admit, I felt 12 years old again!

Tweet from @ braveman91: I���ve said to others. I felt 12 again. I left Canada after Game 7 in 94. To see Kirk out there, in that gear, brought me back to a special time in history for this team. A time where he walked in & kicked the damn doors off MSG.Should of won that Cup! So deserved. #CaptainKirk

Tweet from @iamallcanuck: The second Captain Kirk stepped on the ice last night, it was like 94 SC Playoffs flooded my memory banks.

At the same time, McLean is already actively involved in the life of Vancouver. He regularly appears at matches as a club ambassador and plays for the veteran team. But there was something about seeing him in old gear – Vaughn’s signature black shin guards, an orange pancake and a colorful trap.

“It’s like hearing an old song and going back to college or some other special moment in life,” said Corey Hirsch, a goalkeeper who played with McLean in 1995-99 and is now an analyst for Radio Canucks.“We’re all connected to the past, it’s human nature, so for Vancouver fans and goalkeepers like me, seeing Kirk has a lot of memories.” reached the Stanley Cup final and lost to the New York Rangers in a seven-game series, but that year he made a memorable overtime save in the seventh match of the first round against the Calgary Flames, cementing his contribution to history. on Wednesday, he also brought up those memories.

Newly retired NHL goalkeeper Mike McKenna responded to McLean’s Twitter video, “I’m hysterical at the sight of Kirk.”

[Latest NHL News on Twitter @NHLrussia]

“It hit my heart,” McKenna said Thursday from Las Vegas, where he now works as a TV analyst for Golden Knights “after a 14-year NHL career, during which he played for seven teams.“You don’t understand this as a child, but each of their species was cult. Whether it’s Kirk McLean, Bob Essens or Ed Belfour. The uniform looked cool then, and it looks the same now. So when Kirk stepped onto the ice, it was like we saw him reincarnated. “

McKenna admits to being very nostalgic for the old uniform. In 2017-18 he played for the Dallas Stars and digitally recreated the Bauer Reactor shin guards and gloves played as a teenager.

“When I saw them, I got goosebumps because I remembered my childhood and the first couple of years in college,” he said.“I had a deep connection with that form.”

Canucks fans seemed to feel the same way about McLean’s look, but it was not easy to achieve. He still has one of his old masks, and a longtime Canucks manager. Outfit Pat O’Neill keeps his old wooden Hespeler stick, but all other original equipment has long been donated to charities and sports museums.

Fortunately, they found an amateur league goalkeeper nearby who was just as passionate about McLean’s gear. like McKenna.

34-year-old firefighter Josh Bowman has been a goalkeeper since the age of six and fell in love with hockey and goalkeeping after seeing McLean in action. So as soon as he had the necessary amount, he acquired a replica of McLean’s uniform.

Lending it to McLean himself to celebrate the club’s 50th birthday was an easy decision.

“I felt like a child again,” Bowman said.

Tweet from @the_goalie: Very surreal watching your childhood idol skate out wearing your own personal gear. @Canucks https://t.co/RB6qn70p3M

New Skates Give Goalkeepers an Advantage – January 25, 2019

A redesign of the skate increases mobility and helps in positioning

deer hair. The Philadelphia Flyers goalkeeper recognizes that innovations in goalkeeper equipment have a profound impact on the quality of goalkeeper play.

McKenna considers the latest changes in goalkeeper skate design to be the most significant in goalkeeper form since the introduction of the movable pads, which change their position on the foot when the goalkeeper kneels.

Then, in the manufacture of shields, new materials began to be used, due to which the weight of one shield was reduced to almost one and a half kilograms. This affected the speed of the goalkeeper and the bounce of the puck. The goalkeeper now has more time to play the finishing move.

Despite these innovations, McKenna believes that the most significant step in the evolution of equipment is the abandonment of the fairing with a blade – hard white plastic that provides additional protection for the foot.

“I really think that technically skates are very different now compared to what they were when we first started playing,” said the 35-year-old goalkeeper. corner All this makes us more mobile.And not only when we are on skates, but even on our knees. The force of the push has changed, we are pressing closer to the barbells. “

All goalkeepers agree with him. The white fairing was intended primarily to protect the feet when the washers were kicked. Over the past four seasons, they have practically disappeared.

” Now it is already strange to see such fairings, and three years ago everyone played with them, ”McKenna said. – The changes came quickly. Very fast. “

At the end of the 2014-15 season, all NHL goalkeepers were playing with fairings.New York Rangers goalkeeper Henrik Lundqvist introduced the new Bauer goalie skates for the 2015-16 season. They looked like skates of field players with a reinforced toe instead of a fairing. At the same time, several other goalkeepers began experimenting with new custom skates made to order without fairing by the small Winnipeg-based company VH Footwear. Then it was bought by the True Hockey Corporation.

Three years have passed. Ten NHL goalkeepers continue to play with traditional fairings, and most of them, including Carey Price of the Montreal Canadiens, grind plastic from the inside of their feet to make it easier to push while on their knees.

By removing some of the plastic, the goalkeeper changes what is called the “angle of attack” – the angle of inclination of the skate in relation to the ice, at which the blade continues to abut against the ice. The less this slope, the lower the goalkeeper needs to raise his knee in order to push off when moving laterally from one bar to another. This means it will cover more space.

“Five or six years ago, goalkeepers went to the gym and pumped their thighs if they wanted to move faster in goal. And changed the material on the pads,” says Vancouver Canucks main goalkeeper Jacob Markstrom.“And then someone figured out how to reduce the boot and the angle of attack. This has changed a lot. A lot of things. You no longer have to raise your knee high to push off properly, which means you can move faster. ” This is one of the reasons why Price went back to the old Graf fairing after trying the new one, but the benefits are clear.

“I had to seriously adjust. I was shorter and felt more stable,” says Detroit Red Wings goalkeeper Jonathan Bernier, who plays True Hockey with a high back stance. “Butterfly. And I don’t have to raise my knee high to push off, because the angle is better.”

Hockey speeds have increased, players are more likely to attack, moving through the center of the zone. Therefore, goalkeepers welcome any innovation that helps them move faster in goal.In this regard, more and more goalkeepers are switching to new skates.

The new skate design has allowed some goalkeepers to abandon the deep groove when sharpening their blades.

“The foot is locked into the boot,” says Red Wings primary goalkeeper Jimmy Howard, who plays True Hockey.

“Ready for the season!” NHL Preview: Eastern Conference. Atlantic Division

The already traditional review text ahead of the NHL season starting on October 3 from the blog “Hockeyground” .

Before this season, I decided to make a series of previews on a divisional basis, which means that there are as many as 4 parts awaiting you, in which we will have time to go through each of the teams in the league, thereby announcing the start of an exciting new NHL season!

Continuing east and next in line Atlantic Division :

Tampa Bay Lightning

Came: n. Andy Andreoff

Left: time.Peter Budai, z. Andrey Shustr, z. Jake Dotchin, n. Chris Kunitz, n. Matthew Peck.

Main acquisition: –

Before leaving Steven Yizerman did not waste time and money on “duty” signings from the market, and it didn’t work to lure such giants as Tavares and Karlsson (or didn’t really try). All the attention of the general manager this summer was focused on intra-club affairs and the prompt renewal of the leaders of an already strong team.

Main loss: –

And Yzerman managed to cope with it, the Lightning roster did not suffer serious losses in the offseason.You can mark, for example, Chris Kunitz . The four-time Stanley Cup winner was taken with an eye to strengthening the lower ranks for important post-season games, but Kunitz, gaining only 1 point in 17 matches, did not cope with this task. The 38-year-old striker will now share his experience in the Chicago Blackhawks dressing room.

27-band defender Andrei Shustr left Tampa, who played here since 2013, but was less and less included in the squad and, as a result, did not receive a new contract.The Czech will spend the next season in Anaheim. Goalkeeper Peter Budai returned to LA Kings in the summer, for which he played earlier and will again help J. Quick. The 36-year-old backup made 8 games for Lightning last season.

About the recent deduction Dotchina , I think everyone has already read.

Composition, links: Tampa Bay DF

Offseason score: 8/10

If quite simply, then minus one point for the McDonagh contract and for the recent “bomb” from Aizerman, as a result spoiled the club’s offseason.

Front Office Lightning, under the leadership of Steve Yzerman, spent another consistently successful offseason, the apotheosis of which was Nikita Kucherov’s long-awaited contract (for 7 years and a $ 9.5 million cap hit), which comes into force next year. Previously, long-term contracts were signed with 25-year-old striker J. T. Miller ($ 5.2 million for 5 years) and 29-year-old defender Ryan McDona ($ 6.75 for 7 years). Both players came to Tampa during the last season as a result of an exchange with the Rangers.

I can’t say that I was too surprised and shocked by the contract issued by McDonagh, but I can’t attribute it to the pluses either, nevertheless, they overpaid and, most importantly, the term of the agreement is embarrassing. It is important that the contract, just like that of Kucherov, will come into force only from next year. The only serious help was the distribution of the amount over the years, so in the last season (when Raine will already be 37) the salary will be only $ 4.2 million. …A year later, it is necessary to re-sign the center of the second line Braden Point and several other players of the base. And in any case, changes in defense will be inevitable, since it will not be possible to keep Strolman, Coburn and Girardi together, and young people from the farm will replace them.

Is it worth mentioning the freshest and loudest news from the camp of Lightning? After 8 flawless years at Tampa Bay, General Manager Stephen Yizerman announced his retirement, with 41-year-old Assistant Julien Brisbois being replaced, and Steve himself will be working for the last year on a contract as a consultant.At the moment, there are more questions and guesses than answers. What exactly is the reason for this decision? Has it become urgent or prepared in advance? Will we see him in Detroit in a year, or are these just beautiful theories? And, most importantly, what kind of influence on what is happening at the club will Yzerman have over the coming season?

There are many, so far too many questions on this topic, but no matter what Yzerman is now doing, we can say for sure that he has collected and retained a competitive team in Tampa for the upcoming season, one of the main contenders for the cup, and here it is more up to John Cooper and his coaching staff.

Coach: John Cooper

The upcoming season will be the sixth (full) season for the 51-year-old coach at the helm of Lightning, four times under him the team went to the playoffs, and three times reached at least the conference final. Cooper and his team have enough experience in playing games. The only thing missing is the long-awaited cup, and Tampa is ranked among the favorites of the season every year. Every year, John Cooper was able to truly surprise, the team showed something new and it was the coach’s innovative or simply successful ideas that rescued Lightning at the right time.

However, this did not happen in the series with Washington, where the opponent was simply dismantling them piece by piece, and confidence in Tampa’s game was practically melting before our eyes. Then the first questions regarding Cooper’s work went, but for such seasons the head coach is usually not fired, but this did not help his assistants. Immediately after the end of the season, Rick Bowness (in charge of defense) and Brad Lauer left the coaching staff. The club, as it were, pointed out the mistakes and took action, but on the other hand, this can be regarded as the first warning for Cooper himself.

Problems for the season:

Two words – Stanley Cup.

Last season, Tampa Bay played at the highest level in the regular season, becoming the first in the division and in the entire conference. The last time Lightning achieved such a result was when the Atlantic Division, as it is in its current form, did not even exist yet. But these achievements did not help the team to tune in and in the same way it is easy to walk through the opponents in the playoffs. Having finished the season with the most dramatic streak in the 7th game against Washington, some of the main cup favorites “on paper” again did not achieve the desired result, and the already seemingly distant final against Chicago in the 14/15 season remains the best achievement of the current Lightning.

Next summer will have to make important decisions about some contracts, and getting into the ceiling without losing anything, every year it becomes more difficult for Tampa. This will probably have to be done by the new GM club, without Yzerman’s participation. Therefore, it is also likely that we will not see a stronger Tampa roster than the current one in the coming years. More promising and interesting, perhaps, but less prepared for going for the cup.

Now that all the contractual issues with the leaders are finally settled, when there is the necessary selection of players (the latest version of Yzerman), when the credit of trust even in such a coach as Cooper begins to expire and when Tampa is already tired of calling overdochren every year in September top favorites from the east… Now or never? Yes, perhaps this expression will do.

Boston Bruins / Boston Bruins

Yaroslav Galak, z. John Moore, z. Stephen Kampfer, n. Chris Wagner, n. Joakim Nordström, n. Daniel Winnick (PC), n. Lee Stempnyak (PC).

Left: time. Anton Khudobin, z. Adam McQuaid, z. Nick Holden, z. Paul Postma, n. Rick Nash, n. Tim Schaller, n. Riley Nash, n. Austin Carnik, n. Tommy Wingels, n. Brian Gionta, n. Kenny Agostino.

Main acquisition: Yaroslav Galak (Islanders)

In short, the signing of the second goalkeeper is still more important than the sixth (or even the seventh) defender in the person of John Moore , because in the LD position there is competition and a reserve in the Bruins available (Hara, Krug, Grizlik). Especially if we are talking about a team like Boston, where the first number is not used to load 70+ matches. And Tuukka Rask himself does not always show a stable game and he needs a reliable replacement.For example, last season the 31-year-old Finn made only 54 meetings. So Yaroslav Galak played the same 54 regular season matches for the Islanders.

But the word “reliable” confuses here. It is clear that comparing the organization of the game in the defense of Isles and Boston is almost pointless, and thanks to this Galak always had enough work, but Anton Khudobin also had a pretty decent season, and they did not give him a new contract, as a result of signing a 33-year-old Slovak, whose best seasons seems to be over, and with a salary of $ 2.75 million, which would definitely suit Khudobin. In general, the story with the backup of Rusk was strange, but GM Don Sweeney, as always, knows better.

Main Loss: Rick Nash (Saint Agent)

Nash or Nash? The loss of such a multifunctional striker as Riley is also significant and will slightly weaken the central axis of the team, but I still want to mention Rick Nash, or rather recall his exchange on the deadline. It turns out that in 23 matches and Rick’s 11 (6 + 5) points in Bruins uniform, Sweeney then gave the Rangers: peak 1 round, peak 7 round, defender Rain Lindgren’s prospect, forward Rain Spooner and half-dead Matt Beleski.

Well, that’s what happened for Boston. Especially when you consider the current status of 34-tape Nash, who is still a free agent, and has not decided whether he should still play.

Composition, links: Boston DF

Offseason score: 6/10

Boston’s offseason turned out to be ambiguous. Many new players were signed to each line, even more of the club left over the summer and all these were reshuffles exclusively in the lower ranks, all the key players remained in their places, except for the already mentioned Rick Nash.The first, back in late March, to sign a contract for the next season was the permanent captain Misek, 41-year-old Zdeno Hara . The iron Slovak proves in practice that he is ready to play at least another year, but perhaps the upcoming season will be the final one in his long career.

In June, General Manager Don Sweeney stated that he would like to keep many players with expiring contracts, but this will not be possible, so it was clear that Boston’s squad would undergo changes over the summer.They only touched the lower links and goalkeepers, which in general allows us to continue to rely on the usual backbone and leaders of the team.

The contracts issued by Sweeney to Grizzlik ($ 1.4 million for 2 years) or Kurali ($ 1.275 million for 3 years) do not cause reproaches, GM deserves a plus for them. We will also include Moore and Wagner signed from the market there, both players are experienced, they know their responsibilities on the ice and should be useful to the team.

It’s hard to say that after all the summer rearrangements, the Bruins began to look stronger, perhaps they lost a little in the depths of the roster.There is a separate goalkeeper question, right now the updated duo Rask – Galak does not look better, but here, of course, all questions during the season will be answered only by the current form and play of the Slovakian.

Coach: Bruce Cassidy

For the Canadian, the upcoming season will be his third season at the club and his second full-fledged head coach. In the first season, under the leadership of Cassidy Bruins, they confidently went through the entire regular season, gaining 112 points, in the end, only lagging behind the Lightning, who had run ahead for a long time, but the team began to storm a little in the playoffs.The Bostonians still managed to win the streak with Toronto that lasted until the 7th game, the home factor helped, but they did not succeed in winning the division, Tampa got in the way and Bruce Cassidy was forced to capitulate, improving last year’s result by only one step.

Now, it is worth assuming that the 53-year-old specialist has already completely settled down here in the role of the main one, made it clear to everyone what kind of hockey he wants to see and in the upcoming season the fans have the right to demand better results from him and the team.

Objectives for the season:

So far, with the backbone of leaders who took the Stanley Cup in 2011, it would be logical to believe that the current Bruins are aimed only at repeating the result of seven years ago.So far, the team is not going to go into any kind of restructuring or something like that. Only maximum tasks and annual attempts to get to the finals. The upcoming season is unlikely to surprise us with anything in this regard and will not be an exception. This is confirmed by the off-season.

Boston still has everything to confidently pass the regular season, especially since the current situation in the division allows, and then it is more difficult.

On the positive side, the team has good young players.Already considered a top striker, 22-year-old David Pastrnyak will only try to consolidate his status next year. Also in the attack there are already gained experience: Bjork, DeBrask, Heinen and Donato. Young defenders McAvoy and Carlo, for whom this will be their third season in the first team and both have to sign new contracts in the summer. In general, Sweeney will have to work hard next summer to keep the line-up, but the situation does not look like a stalemate, and besides, there is still an upcoming season.

Experienced leaders are in place, now there are enough smart young people, and the coach is not the first season with the team.Now the decisive 2-3 years are beginning for Boston, when that very “champion window” begins to close and if veteran Hara does not have time to win his second cup, then Bergeron, Marchand, Kreichi and Rusk still have more such opportunities.

Toronto Maple Leafs / Toronto Maple Leafs

Igor Ozhiganov, n. John Tavares, n. Tyler Ennis, n. Josh Juris, n. Peer Lindholm.

Left: h.Roman Polak, n. James van Riemsdyck, n. Tyler Bozak, n. Leo Komarov, n. Matt Martin, n. Tomas Plekanec.

Main acquisition: John Tavares (Islanders)

It was terribly difficult to choose, so many options, also Ennis was signed by Juris, but still … The loudest story and signing of the past summer. Tavares in Toronto! Tavares is coming home! Tavares gets 11 for 7 and seems to be “already” turning Leaves into contenders and contenders for the cup! You know the rest.

Major loss: James van Riemsdyck (Philadelphia)

As was rightly noted, the signing of Tavares cost Maple Leafs at least the loss of the van Riemsdyck and Bozak tie. Both players received new good contracts in other clubs, and if you recall the achievements of the tandem in the previous team, then you can note at least 36 goals from James or 32 assists from Tyler last season, who often helped each other in getting statistics.

Of course, with the arrival of Tavares, the layout of Toronto’s attack triplets will also change, and the central axis of the team now looks very impressive, but it will slightly lose the variability of the top-9 attack, and after all, everyone is already so used to the fact that Mike Babcock is actively involved in three leading teams at once, replacing each other and not letting the opponent’s defense take a break. But there is more space and opportunities for young people, for which Leaves now have enough.

Composition, links: Toronto DF

Offseason score: 7/10

It would be more correct to start with the fact that in Toronto in the spring there was a change of general manager and very (very direct) specific.Instead of olden days Lou Lamorello, one of the youngest GMs in league history, 32-year-old Kyle Dubas , was named. He earned this position with his excellent work at the farm club since 2014, which resulted in the first-ever victory of the Toronto Marlies in the Calder Cup (AHL) last spring, and was also Lou’s assistant in the main team. In general, at the age of 32, they are not appointed to the post of GM Toronto, so they deserve it, but we will take a close look.

Dubas’ start and his first days as a GM team in the NHL turned out to be extremely eventful, but let’s talk about everything in order.

It is understood that Tavares signing and Nylander’s new contract major events in Toronto’s offseason, the rest against the backdrop of this little things. If with the transfer of Tavares and even the contract issued to him, everything is more or less clear, it remains only to see the new star of the team in action (the preseason does not count), then with the second point it is a little more difficult …

It is very inconvenient to write this text now and all the more to distribute conditional assessments, not knowing how the story with Nylander is about to end in the end, but what to do.Let’s believe that sensations and surprises will not happen. We are talking here not only about William’s contract, but also about more important things, because next summer Dubas will need to sign more Matthews and Marner, not forgetting to keep within the salary ceiling, while at the same time maintaining a combat-ready composition. So far, we only hear that the talks are about a multi-year contract (no bridges), and the parties cannot agree on the issue price between 6 and 8 million a year. Let’s see how Kyle Dubas will solve the first serious problem and whether the club will have time to settle everything before the start of the season.

As for the rest, the signing of Tavares is good, the unresolved issue with Nylander is bad, but so far not critical. Back in the offseason, Toronto was forced to let go of a significant part of the players in the lower levels of the attack, reducing the depth of the roster, but giving young players a chance for the next season. So far, the defense line still does not inspire, the main weak point of the team, now there is neither time nor money for it, but I think during the season Dubas will try to strengthen his defense.

Coach: Mike Babcock

For Babcock, the upcoming season will be his fourth in the Maple Leafs and it is time for the “best Canadian coach” to achieve at least a little more than just reaching the playoffs.In previous seasons, demand was less, the team was rebuilding after difficult times, new stars of the franchise appeared, but these were mainly young players whom Mike managed to train in a couple of years, but now the roster has already been strengthened by the formed star of the league. So far, Toronto under Babcock has shown all its strength only in the regular season, updating the club record (105 points), but not coping with the elimination games.

Let’s see what conclusions experienced Mike Babcock made during the offseason and what his young team will demonstrate in the new season.

Tasks for the season:

With an excellent selection of players, an experienced coach and Tavares in the summer, Maple Leafs will certainly rise in the list of candidates for the cup. In hockey Ontario, fans have been waiting for only one goal for a very long time, stagnating for too long either at the bottom, or in restructuring, or all at once. But with the arrival of Babcock and the support of Shanahan, the club is on the right track. Now Kyle Dubas has joined this company and in many respects the success and state of Toronto in the near future may depend on what decisions on contracts will be made in the next calendar year.

As for the upcoming season, there is no doubt that the “maple” teams will confidently pass the regular season again, scoring a lot. Will we see John Tavares’ first 100+ point season? Quite possibly. Where else if in over attacking Toronto. The best special teams in the league?

But if you ask whether Maple Leafs is considered a real contender for the cup, the answer is rather negative. Perhaps the point is the still weak defense, which will probably habitually burden its goalkeepers and fail again in the playoffs.Perhaps it’s the notorious experience of the young team and leaders, although even last season should have given a lot to the same Matthews in this regard. And what about Tavares? Yes, he is undoubtedly cool, but he is also not a cup player, only once getting from Isles to round 2.

So far, based on what we have seen, Toronto in the regular season and in the playoffs are two completely different teams and this should be taken into account, probably, as with no other top team. All of the above is a great challenge for Mike Babcock, if he can’t fix it by the spring, then every year it will only get more difficult.

Florida Panthers

Mike Hutchinson, z. Bogdan Kiselevich, Ph. Mike Hoffman, n. Troy Brower.

Left: time. Harry Satery, z. Radim Vrbata, n. Connor Brickley.

Major Acquisition: Mike Hoffman (Ottawa)

Florida took advantage of the summer sale of Ottawa’s best assets. The mediator was San Jose, who skillfully threw off Mikkel Bedker’s contract in Sens, and then received several not the highest draft picks from the Panthers.As a result, Florida now has an excellent left winger to strengthen the top 6, which the team lacked, the Sharks cleared the bill for future big deals, and Ottawa was left without two of its top players (#ProfitSens).

Now Hoffman is 28 years old, behind his shoulders, at least four last seasons at a decent level (≈25 pucks, 60 points), a valid contract for another two years and prohibitive motivation against his former team, part-time rival in the division, who wanted to – to quickly get rid of an important player because of a ridiculous scandal.

Main loss: –

The Panthers’ offseason cannot be called too eventful, especially with regard to serious losses in the lineup. Of those who played last year, it can be noted that 37-year-old striker Radim Vrbatu retired from his career, traveled to different clubs in recent seasons and Finnish goalkeeper Harry Satery, who did not take root in Florida, went to compete with the goalkeepers of Detroit.

Line-up, links: Florida DF

Offseason score: 8/10

General manager Dale Tellon spent a fairly calm and even offseason, making a couple of good signings, thereby strengthening the available selection of players not enough until the playoffs last spring.

Trade by Mike Hoffman is clearly a plus for the Panthers’ front office, many wanted to take the striker away from Ottawa. The invitation from the KHL of the 28-year-old defender Bogdan Kiselevich , who has not previously played overseas, is still regarded with caution. Will the player, who was not particularly brilliant in scoring points, speed qualities and handling the puck, be able to gain a foothold in a new, stronger league, but Talon also noted that initially he sees in Bogdan rather a destroyer, able to clean up and help in his own half.A one-sided one-year contract was signed with Kiselevich, that is, he will definitely have a chance to prove himself in the main team, and then how will it turn out. In any case, the Panthers have little to lose from this deal, and it was necessary to try to strengthen the defense.

As for the rest, Tellon tried to make point signatures , leaving at least a couple of million under the cap for the stock. For Bottom 6, Troy Brower was chosen to add experience to the young squad. The signing of Winnipeg goalkeeper Mike Hutchinson with a one-year contract still looks dubious, Florida needed a rather reliable first number, and received another backup with bad statistics.

The final part of the preparations for the new 25th season of the Panthers in the NHL was the appointment of a new captain. It was the Finnish striker Alexander Barkov , the top scorer of the last season and the first center of the team. Thus, Florida shows that they are finally ready to fully trust their young and promising core of the team.

Coach: Bob Bugner

The head coach of the Panthers can also be considered promising; for 47-year-old Bugner, the upcoming season will be only the second at the head of the team.The new coach did not immediately, but eventually found a common language with the players, which can explain the long run-in and the team’s excellent finishing spurt last season. In the first year of work, Bugner did not have enough to get into the playoffs, now everyone in the club, including the coach and the players, is waiting for a breakthrough season.

As the head coach himself says, a year ago I had to spend almost half of the regular season to improve relations within the team, show a new vector of direction in the game and start producing results.Now it should be easier, and if the Panthers want to go to the post-season, then the championship should start properly.

Tasks for the season:

Florida had a very good last season, or rather the second part of it, with a total of 96 points. Usually, this mark was enough to get into the post-season, but literally one victory was not enough for the Panthers and it was all the fault of a weak start. Now the whole team as a whole has become more experienced and is ready to take this step.

Right now Florida has what it takes to succeed, or at least complete the challenge of reaching the playoffs, especially in the year of the 25th anniversary of the franchise.Allows you to count on a high place in the table and the current state of many rivals in the division. It is quite possible to fight for the wild card.

The only still serious obstacle may be playing in your own half of the court. If the Panthers are doing well with the attack and they have someone to rely on, then there are enough problems in defense, but the most important thing is the goalkeepers. If it were not for the goalkeeper’s question, then the club from the Sunshine State could safely predict a place in the eight, but having as the first number 39-year-old Roberto Luongo, who is prone to injuries and plays an average of 40 games per season, and James Rymer simply does not pull this role, only as a backup.This is where the main doubts about the team’s prospects lie.

Detroit Red Wings

Arrived: time Jonathan Bernier, b. Harry Satery, n. Thomas Vanek, n. Philip Zadina (draft), n. Joe Veleno (draft).

Left: time. Jared Koro, z. Xavier Ulle, z. Robbie Russo, n. Henrik Zetterberg, n. David Booth.

Major acquisition: Philip Zadina – 6th pick in the draft

Not that the young Czech striker will pull the Red Wings out of the bottom of the table overnight, let alone single-handedly, but Detroit has not chosen this for a long time (since 1990) high in the draft, and Zadina himself deserves attention with his game, in particular last season.

In the previous hockey year, the 18-year-old winger played in the Quebec League for Halifax, where he scored 94 (49 + 45) points in 66 games, also for the Czech youth national team at the MFM, having scored 7 goals in 7 meetings and played 6 matches for the main team on the Eurotrip.

Many people said after the draft (including in Detroit) the club was very lucky that Zadina unexpectedly lived to the sixth pick. Moreover, if you remember how back in May, experts argued between him and Svechnikov as about equal candidates for the 2nd peak.Will Philip manage to gain a foothold in the team already in the first season and will he be given such a chance in Detroit, where, it seems, they have already forgotten how to handle top avenues in recent years.

Major loss: Henrik Zetterberg

After much deliberation, the captain of the Red Wings announced that he was retiring with a long-standing back injury. Until recently, there were doubts whether 37-year-old Henrik would be able to last one more year, one more season to lead (though it is not clear where) a team from the “city of motors”.As it turned out, no, and will stop at around 15 seasons, 6 of them as team captain.

It makes no sense to list all the regalia of one of the best players in the history of the Red Wings, over the last week there have been enough articles that vividly describe Zett’s long journey from 210 picks in the 99 draft to the present day. It’s a bit of a pity that the Swede did not have enough only 40 points to exchange 1000 in the Detroit squad, but he managed to celebrate his 1000 match.

Even playing with an untreated injury in recent years, Henrik was definitely useful on the ice.For example, last season he played all 82 matches and became the team’s second scorer, losing only to Dylan Larkin, sort of like a successor in the renovating Detroit. And talking about the captain’s leadership qualities and his irreplaceable experience in the team is simply pointless. Only who is now capable of leading the Red Wings behind them?

Lineup, links: Detroit DF

Offseason score: 6/10

See below: Ken Holland’s 21st season at the club and the sequel to the league’s most obscure realignment.In the spring, the contract with the general manager was extended for another 2 years. And if the previous couple of years, when the Red Wings were just starting their dive, Holland could afford to play the fool, as he knows how to clear the club’s bills and get out in the summer drafts, now, the counter has already gone to seasons and specific decisions. Or in a couple of years we will still see that Holland has assembled a new combat-ready team or we will not see anything in Detroit, not even himself.

In general, it seems to me that in Detroit, over these 20 plus years spent exclusively in the playoffs, with an endless set of cool players in the squad and only low positions in the drafts, they have a little lost the habit of the term “perestroika”, and Ken Holland himself, accustomed to running the top versions of the Red Wings, at least not the most suitable candidate for such tasks.

Regarding this off-season, the club’s front office can even be praised and given a more or less acceptable score. Although, mainly based on the well-executed draft . Holland had 4 picks out of the first 36 picks! And GM Red Wings have been lucky for one century. Having snatched two excellent strikers Zadina and Veleno in the first round, we can still talk about Detroit’s chances of rebirth. If Ken succeeds in the next draft, then already … but not.

Holland also did not fail on contract renewals. Dylan Larkin was issued a 5-year-old for a rather modest $ 6.1 million for the main star of the club; short 2-year agreements were received by: Green, Manta, Bertuzzi and Atanasiu. Even Mike Green’s $ 5.75 million does not seriously spoil the situation as part of the ongoing restructuring.

Free agent signing was rather modest for Holland. New backup for Howard in the person of J. Bernier , who signed the 3-year-old for $ 3 million and the return for one season of the experienced Vanek, who had previously played in Detroit.

Coach: Jeff Blaschill

The head coach will also remain on the team for at least the next season. Having traveled to the World Cup in May as the head coach of the US national team, Blashill took with him from the headquarters of the national team the notorious Dan Bilesma as an assistant. Now the two of them will try to fulfill the main task for the season, namely to develop young people and move the “future” of Detroit somewhere. There are still plenty of doubts that they will be able to cope with this, but on the other hand, no one demands from the same Blashill to get into the playoffs.True, what he was doing, for example, last season was not entirely clear. Questions, some questions around Detroit.

Tasks for the season:

Tank? So it seems that in Detroit it is not customary to go openly for high draft picks, and this vacancy is now reliably occupied by the rival in the division, moreover, the fans who have not so long become accustomed to victories will not understand and do not think that the club’s management wants to lose the already half-filled stadium at home games.

Most likely, the Red Wings will try to repeat the scenario of last season, they will take about 5-6 place in the weakest division, especially since the next draft is predicted to be very deep for good elections. The main task of the club now is to play the existing young players, the further development of the same Larkin and Manta. What the club is not doing too willingly so far.

If it is even interesting to look at Detroit’s line of attack before the season, considering how many players this time will get to the coveted 50 points mark.Yes, this is to the fact that Wings took 28th place last season on Wednesdays. the number of goals scored. I don’t even want to look at the defense. How in a rebuilding team can the average age of defensive players be over 30? Also, Mike Green flew out with an incomprehensible illness for a month or two, but 37-year-old Cronwall remains in the case.

But everything is not so bad with the goalkeepers. Yes, we are talking about the smallest pair of goalkeepers in the league: Howard (185), Bernier (183). And this at a time when the NHL is trying in every way to make life difficult for goalkeepers, reducing the elements of their equipment.We can only wish Detroit good luck!

Montreal Canadiens

Came in: g. Xavier Ulle, n. Max Domi, n. Tomas Tatar, n. Nick Suzuki, n. Joel Army, n. Tomas Plekanec, n. Matthew Peck, n. Jesperi Kotkaniemi (draft).

Left: n. Max Pacioretti, n. Alex Galchenyuk, n. Daniel Carr, n. Logan Shaw, n. Aleš Gemski.

Major Acquisition: Max Domi (Arizona)

Picked by Phoenix under the 12th overall pick in 2013, Domi spent three seasons in the NHL.The striker’s first year at the club was the most successful, scoring 52 (18 + 34) points in 82 games. The next one did not play completely (59 games) due to injury, but as in the last season he scored only 9 goals. For the Coyotes, the 23-year-old striker often played on the edge, less often in the center role.

In Montreal, they initially want to use Domi in place of the central striker, and immediately the first link, paired with Jonathan Drouin. As GM Marc Bergevin himself noted, he sees Domi more in the role of a passer, thereby returning Drouin, who scored a little last season, back to the flank.

Immediately after the trade, the ex-Arizona player signed a 2-year agreement with the Hubs with a $ 3.15 million cap hit. So far, Domi’s prospects as a leading player look very controversial and he has two seasons to prove his need for a renewed attack on Montreal. Of course, if he stops getting disqualifications out of the blue.

Major loss: Max Pacioretti

Another team in the league has lost its captain. Pacioretti was selected in the first round of the 2007 draft and spent 10 seasons with the Canadiens, three of which as captain.Over the past seasons, the left-handed striker of Montreal’s leading links has consistently scored 30+ goals. The only exception was the last season, but there Max played only 64 matches and scored a modest 37 (17 + 20) points.

It cannot be said that the exchange involving Pacioretti was unexpected, there were such rumors, but nevertheless, when the captain and one of the main stars of the team are changed, such news is always perceived differently. As a result, Tomas Tatara, Nik Suzuki Avenue and the peak of the 2nd round of 2019 were received from Vegas.If Bergevin could beat anyone, it was McPhee who changed everything. It didn’t turn out as badly as many fans of the Canadian club expected. The captain with an expiring contract was not given just for a bag of washers. Moreover, if we consider it true that Max has been asking the management for an exchange all last season.

It is worth noting the move from Quebec and another American. Alex Galchenyuk also did not have a relationship with Bergevin, although Claude Julien also helped here. Alex was no longer seen as a center, but even on the flank, his play did not always suit the coach, which resulted in links to the lower ranks.The last couple of seasons, number 3 of the 2012 draft, openly asked for an exchange and everything went to that.

Finally, in the summer there was an exchange for Max Domi. Now, speaking for Arizona, Alex will once again have the opportunity to play a more familiar role as a center striker, and in Montreal they will try to replace him with a Canadian who just came. Perhaps Galchenyuk won the most from this decision, and perhaps his departure will be reminiscent of Bergevin for a long time, but it is worth drawing conclusions at least at the end of the season.

Composition, links: Montreal DF

Off-season score: 4/10

The collapse of the once real contenders for the cup continues, but restructuring does not begin. That’s according to the general manager of Montreal. Indeed, it is difficult to go into a full-fledged restructuring, having Price and Weber in the lineup, but building a new team around the 10 millionth goalkeeper is also a bad idea and what will come of it all.

Last season, the Hubs confidently took one of the last places in the entire league, pulled out the 3rd draft in the draft and, it seems, will continue to “develop” in the same spirit.But this is not perestroika, and Bergevin is still officially setting the task of getting into the playoffs, now Price will return to normal and things will go well.

Over the past offseason, the Canadiens said goodbye to their captain and traded the mocking Galchenyuk, so Bergevin continues to pursue a strategy of getting rid of the first rounds of previous drafts. I wonder which one to take into account in a couple of years awaits the chosen one under the unprecedentedly high for the Hubs the third peak of the Finnish center of Kotkaniemi.

A young Finn could easily accommodate somewhere in the third link, especially with the centers in Montreal, as always, there are enough problems (Domi / Dano), but it was not just that in the summer they returned 35-year-old Tomas Plekanec, this is Bergvin’s plan, not a word about perestroika and young players.

By the way, the contract of Carey Price for 10.5 million per year comes into force, but the main problem of the club is the injury of Shea Weber. According to the forecast, the 33-year-old defender will return to duty no earlier than mid-December. Will the Canadiens be able to hold out so much near the playoff zone?

Coach: Claude Julien

This season will mark the season’s third season for the seasoned mentor in his second Montreal coming. Julien is known for not particularly fiddling with young players, and his gameplay does not fit into the current league framework, but he continues to lead the team that finished 6th in the weakest division and 28th in the entire league last year.Montreal’s squad did not look better over the summer, especially in the defense, beloved by Claude, where the main player will be absent for almost the first 3 months of the championship. There is hope for Price as always, but what you should definitely not count on under Julien is to improve performance, especially with the current selection of players. Last season, Julien’s first full season, his team finished 29th in the league with an average of 2.5 goals per game.

Only the overall score of playing in the minority is worse.By neutralizing the ball, Montreal took 30th place among all teams (74%), behind only the Islanders. In the summer, 49-year-old Luke Richardson joined the club’s coaching staff, one of whose tasks is precisely to work with the special teams of the minority. He previously worked at the Islanders where he was an assistant to Doug White.

Tasks for the season:

As they joked a year ago, if Carey Price starts scoring for his 10 million, then Montreal will have chances. Now this joke looks more like the truth, since the current roster of the Hubs looks at least doubtful, but if Bergevin seriously expects to compete for the playoffs in the upcoming season, then it will at least be interesting to see, everything is better than a boring season drain.

In the meantime, Marc Bergevin, Claude Julien and Carey Price, who have not announced the whole offseason about chronic fatigue, are ready to break the new NHL season. Shea Weber will be joining them soon (or not).

Buffalo Sabers

Arrived: time Carter Hutton, b. Scott Wedgwood, z. Rasmus Dalin (draft), z. Matt Hanwick, n. Jeff Skinner, n. Patrick Berglund, n. Vladimir Sobotka, n. Teige Thompson, n. Conor Shiri.

Left: time.Robin Lehner, BP. Chad Johnson, z. Justin Falk, z. Victor Antipin, n. Ryne O’Reilly, n. Jordan Nolan, n. Jacob Yousefson, n. Seth Griffith.

Major Acquisition: Rasmus Dalin – 1st Pick

The Buffalo have been so unseemly in recent seasons (kidding, 3 out of 5 times the Sabers were the worst team in the league), but they were finally lucky enough to pick first in the draft. Without any surprises, Jason Botterill took on the 18-year-old Swedish prodigy who had been at the top of the pre-draft ratings all year.

During the previous season, Rasmus Dalin managed to play in the Swedish championship at the senior level, having played 47 matches for Ferlund, went and won a silver medal at the MFM (by the way, held in Buffalo), and also played for the main Swedish national team at the Olympics and European tours.

In addition to the excellent playing qualities that distinguish Dalin, he already has the necessary experience of playing at the senior level, which will certainly help the defender to quickly get used to the NHL. Indeed, unlike many other newcomers from the draft, Rasmus belongs to the group that already at the age of 18 begin to play for the main team.According to the hockey player himself, in the summer he worked more on defensive skills in order to be ready for the debut. His attacking skills will come in handy, for example, when playing in the majority, where Buffalo lacked a good left-handed player to pair with Ristolainen.

Main loss: Ryne O’Reilly

After a loud trade from Colorado, one of the league’s most promising center-forwards played exactly three seasons for the Blades, averaging under 60 points and throwing 20+ goals.Unfortunately, the game in Buffalo did not give O’Reilly anything serious, except that the stable participation in the spring at the World Cup.

Rain is now 27 years old and the last time he played in the playoffs was back in 2014. Now ROP will center the leading links of St. Louis, most likely not particularly regretting the change of club. Honestly, in the last season it was noticeable that the enthusiasm in his eyes diminished, he did not want to be part of the protracted restructuring in the weakest team in his prime and years, and, in this case, both sides were interested in the exchange.It seems that everyone got what they wanted, the Canadian so for sure.

Lineup, links: Buffalo DF

Offseason score: 7/10

Buffalo is undergoing a long restructuring, and the team has not made it to the playoffs since 2011. But right now, in recent years, the club from the US-Canadian border is the closest thing to coming out of a coma. General manager Jason Botterill, who came a year ago from Pittsburgh, where he was an assistant to Jim Rutherford, is doing his best to fix the situation.

In the draft, Botterill did not have to choose for a long time, the first peak and Dalin’s choice suggested itself, and in Buffalo they again started talking about an imminent return to the top. It was more important to make the right exchanges and sign the right players, strengthening the roster qualitatively. Apart from the controversial departure of O’Reilly, which was mentioned above, then the general manager coped well with this. There is one question, but more on that later.

Signed by Jeff Skinner , the near-top winger in Eicel’s line, looks interesting.Moreover, the 26-year-old striker this season will tear with all his might, knocking out a new solid contract. Plus, it was for the sake of Sabers that Jeff withdrew the no-exchange clause. Skinner himself hails from Southern Ontario, which is practically in the vicinity of Buffalo and it is clear that the player was really attracted by the prospect of playing here.

It is also worth noting those who came Berglund , Sobotka and Shiri , which should bring more winning experience to the team’s locker room, and the 30-year-old Swede is already partly assigned the position of “guardian” of young compatriot Dalin.Nice move.

The only negative thing about Botterill’s summer signings is the goalkeeper’s position. It is clear that this time there was no wide choice on the market and the experienced Hatton’s contract suits everyone, but if we talk about the game component, Hatton is an excellent backup for 30-35 matches, but go with him as the first number in the race for the play off is not the best idea. Although there is still hope for 25-year-old Swede Linus Ullmark.

Among the intra-club signatures, it is worth highlighting the new 2-year contract of Sam Reinhart with an annual salary of $ 3.65 million. Another plus for the front office of the Blades.

In the offseason, from the same Botterill, one could hear the phrase about the “mentality of losers” that had developed in the Sabers and how he was going to fix it. Well, while it turns out well, it remains to prove it in practice.

Coach: Phil Housley

The 54-year-old spent his first season as head coach of an NHL team in an ambiguous way, and his team’s last place confirms this. On the other hand, everyone understands that in Buffalo exactly a year ago they did not really hope for a breakthrough season, having just changed the entire management and coaching staff.As a result, everything turned out quite predictably, and Houseley himself settled down in a new place and now, I think, is ready to take some more serious measures to get the command out of the bottom of the table.

Tasks for the season:

Stop tanking, it’s time to please the waiting fans with home victories, of which the Blades had the least in the league last season. The Sabers also took the last place among all teams in goals scored (199 and 2.42 per game).

While I would not dare to predict Buffalo will get into the post-season, but the main thing is that they are moving in the right direction and now is the time to lay the foundation for the near future, for a start, having ceased to be the worst team in the league.And if they manage to at least before the All-Star Game keep the intrigue about getting into the top eight, then the season can be called acceptable at all. It is clear that everyone in the club dreams of catching on to the playoffs, but even in such a weak division, it will be extremely difficult to do so.

Much in Buffalo revolves around the main star of the team, and Jack Eicel himself changed his number in the summer and will now play under the 9, previously owned by Evander Kane. Jack mentioned for the thousandth time that the team is starting to move forward and changing the number is another sign for this, and under the nine he played for the university.Boston. In addition, this season, the 21-year-old center begins to operate a 10 millionth contract. When, if not now, begin to prove in practice that you are a franchise player and can not only scare away coaches and teammates, but also lead them.

Ottawa Senators

Mike McKenna, z. Dylan DeMelo, n. Chris Tierney, n. Mikelle Bedker, n. Brady Tkaczak (draft), n. Paul Carey, n. Josh Norris.

Left: h.Eric Karlsson, z. Fredrik Claesson, n. Mike Hoffman, n. Alex Burrows, n. Zach Smith *.

Main acquisition: Brady Tkachak – 4th pick of the draft

Tkachak Jr., to put it mildly, was not too happy when he heard and saw his name in front of the club from Ottawa and of course you can understand the guy. Some Sens fans, for example, still don’t understand how their club got past Philip Zadina and left him to Detroit.

In the summer, Brady wondered if he should stay in the NCAA for another year and continue to play for Boston University, but still chose a rookie contract and a likely debut in the NHL.It is not for nothing that Melnik promised that he would provide the best young players in the team with a place in the squad and playing time. As if Ottawa has other tasks now.

Last season, Tkachak, playing as a winger, scored 31 (8 + 23) points in 40 NCAA games and took bronze at the MFM with the US team, playing all 7 matches with 9 (3 + 6) points.

Main loss: Erik Karlsson

Is there anything to chew on and describe the scale of the tragedy? A whole book could be written on everything that happens in Ottawa this summer, culminating in the Karlsson exchange.On the one hand, if Eugene Melnik decided to break up the team, it was clear that Eric, as one of the best defenders and players in the league as a whole, had nothing to catch there in the future, but the club owner did not want to let go of his main star. as was the case with Tavares and Toronto.

Karlsson had a year left under the contract, and> 10 million players apparently are not included in Melnik’s plans, although the compensation received from San Jose cannot be called equivalent. Tierney and DeMelo will only help fill in the gaps in the weak lineup, with the prospects of young Norris and Balzers so far more difficult, and Sharks’ draft picks are unlikely to skate high in the next couple of years.

It seems that Ottawa has collected a little bit of everything, but it will be difficult to find another player and captain like Eric Karlsson for the team.

Composition, links: Ottawa DF

Offseason score: 0/10

At least in one Canadian club, the general manager does not hesitate to speak out loud about perestroika. But this is where the positive aspects associated with the decisions of Pierre Dorion end.

Yes, the Sens system has enough talented young people to think about restructuring and undoubtedly a whole list of upcoming drafts will be added to them, but right now the team that recently played in the conference finals is losing its main assets in just a year, many will still leave in a year; loses the main star, the face of the club and one of the best players in the league; kills the desire of any top free agents to associate with the franchise in the future; creates a lot of all sorts of incomprehensible things and just blows the brain of his fans.

So who in a year or two will lead all these Ottawa youths with them again to the top of the table? Bobby Ryne? He is the only one of all the Sens players now with a valid contract for more than 3 years, and which of the other players will last with the club in the current situation, the big question is (Stone, Duchesne, Sisi?).

Perhaps now in the entire league you will not find a team with the worst state of affairs, and it was this offseason that finally finished the situation. What the enterprising Miller will come up with in a year is too hard to guess.Now we see a super-mega clear contender for last place and first pick in the draft. But bad luck, the peak of the first round of Ottawa after the Duchenne deal belongs to Colorado, “oops!”

Coach: Guy Boucher

Now a new chapter of history begins for the Senators, the main task of which is to develop young players and rebuild the team from almost zero level. Whether Guy Boucher, who came a couple of years ago to a completely different team and in order to win the cup, is suitable for such guidelines, it is difficult to say now, he is a coach, to put it mildly, specific and rather tough.Although, in Ottawa, they probably don’t expect anything else.

Tasks for the season:

Well, I even find it difficult to imagine, but is “breaking through the bottom” considered an adequate goal of the team? The fact is that in such situations, going into perestroika, the team logically begins to tank, for the sake of high choice in the draft. But in Sens, everything is not like people and we will see the first unprecedented drain of the season in history, for the sake of the peak of the second round! And in Colorado, at the same time, they will rejoice.

Okay, it’s just that Ottawa, in their current position, does not have much choice, they, of course, can compete with Detroit or Montreal for the conditional 6th place in the division.Because, this year, Ottawa is completely indifferent to where to end the season (they will not be high anyway), the team has no task at all, which in this case looks even somehow even sadder.

But we are getting ready to read at least one absurd news from the team’s camp every week, I hope at least Melnik won’t let you down with this. Just yesterday, for example, it was decided to put forward Zach Smith on the waver. We look forward to continuing in the same spirit.

Forecast for the division:

(red line play-off zone)

Next preview: Central Division

Source Sports.ru

gaz.wiki – gaz.wiki

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