Under the watchful eye of Head Coach Andrew Brunette, the Predators are embracing a new philosophy that strongly emphasizes quickness and agility, a stark departure from their more conservative style of play in recent years under former Head Coach John Hynes.

The early stages of training camp have been marked by a noticeable uptick in intensity on offense. Players are getting accustomed to a more aggressive approach, and the emphasis on speed is evident in every drill and scrimmage.

Brunette, in particular, has expressed his satisfaction with the high energy and effort exhibited by the younger players in camp. These prospects are eager to make their mark and show they can keep up with the team’s new, fast-paced style.

The actual test of this philosophy shift will come in preseason doubleheader action against the Florida Panthers. With split squads taking the ice, it will be intriguing to see how Brunette divides up the players and how their newfound speed translates to game action against another NHL team.

Transitioning from a more conservative system to a high-speed one will inevitably come with challenges. Players will need time to fully grasp the new structure and adapt to the demands of their coaches. However, this change in philosophy signals a fresh start for the Predators and the potential for an exciting brand of hockey.

One particularly positive development in the training camp’s early days is the chemistry forming among key players. Filip Forsberg and Ryan O’Reilly, critical veterans, already show strong chemistry on the ice. As likely members of the top line, their partnership bodes well for the upcoming season.

Brunette has also noted improved chemistry among players with prior experience playing together, such as the line featuring Thomas Novak. Promising young talents like Luke Evangelista and Egor Afanasyev also capture the coaching staff’s attention.

“They brought the energy. There hasn’t been one kid that hasn’t worked extremely hard and as a coach, that is a good feeling.”

» Andrew Brunette pic.twitter.com/zMeVVPYQZU

— Bally Sports: Preds (@PredsOnBally) September 23, 2023

One player who has stood out in camp is Yakov Trenin, earning praise from Brunette as “the best player on the ice.” Trenin’s performance is significant as he reaches a pivotal juncture in his NHL career, potentially becoming a long-term fixture for the Predators.

The Predators have assembled a roster with the speed and skill required to excel in the NHL’s evolving landscape. The league now prioritizes quick transitions and generating scoring opportunities, a departure from the Predators’ more conservative approach in the past.

Players like Novak, Evangelista, Cody Glass, and Philip Tomasino will play integral roles in this faster-paced Predators team, aiming to rectify their 28th-ranked scoring offense from the previous season. The success of Coach Brunette’s efforts to transform the group into a higher-scoring unit will undoubtedly be a focal point for fans and pundits alike as they look to provide solid support for goaltender Juuse Saros.

As training camp continues and the preseason games unfold, Predators fans eagerly await the start of the regular season, hoping to see their team thrive in this new era of speed and excitement on the ice.

The post Speed Takes Center Stage at Nashville Predators Training Camp appeared first on Sports News.

The Edmonton Oilers’ Redemption Story

While my 2023 Stanley Cup prediction didn’t pan out, I’m doubling down on the Edmonton Oilers for the 2024 season. Here’s why.

A Partnership Destined for Glory

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl: The New Generation of Greatness

The Oilers’ dynamic duo, McDavid and Draisaitl, are poised to emulate past legendary tandems. Learn why this partnership is a key factor in their quest for the Cup.

A Burning Desire for Victory

Draisaitl’s Determination and McDavid’s Leadership

Discover the fierce determination that fuels Draisaitl and McDavid as they channel their frustration into a relentless pursuit of a Stanley Cup championship.

A Showdown for the Ages

Edmonton Oilers vs. Toronto Maple Leafs: A Dream Stanley Cup Final

Could this be the year for a historic showdown between the Oilers and the Maple Leafs? Explore the potential epic battle between these two storied franchises.

Canada’s Cup Aspirations

The Possibility of the Stanley Cup Returning to Canada

Canada has been longing for a Stanley Cup win. Will this be the year it finally returns to Canadian soil? Explore the implications for hockey fans north of the border.

Projected NHL Standings for the 2024 Season

Here’s a division-by-division breakdown of the projected standings for the upcoming season. Playoff teams are highlighted in bold. Let’s see where your favorite team ranks in the race for the Stanley Cup.

The post Predicting where every NHL team finishes in 2023-24 appeared first on Sports News.

A Heartbreaking Turn of Events

On Saturday, during the second period of the Panthers’ match against the Sheffield Steelers, Johnson suffered a severe injury after colliding with a Steelers player. This collision prompted spectators to leave the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, and the game was immediately suspended. Tragically, it was confirmed on Sunday that Johnson had passed away at the age of 29 due to the “freak accident.”

Police Investigation Underway

South Yorkshire Police stated the incident, saying, “Our officers remain at the scene carrying out inquiries, and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.” Sheffield City Council also cooperates with the investigation, expressing condolences to Johnson’s family, friends, and teammates.

Tributes and Grief Around the World

The ice hockey community and fans around the world have been deeply affected by Johnson’s untimely death. Fans have been leaving flowers outside the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, where the Panthers play. His fiancée, Ryan Wolfe, shared her grief on social media, posting, “My sweet sweet angel. I’ll miss you forever and love you always.”

In addition to tributes from fans and loved ones, Johnson’s former team, the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL), paid their respects. Before and during their game against the Anaheim Ducks, the Penguins and Ducks held silence and gathered at center ice to honor Johnson’s memory. Players from both teams wore unique ‘AJ 47’ decals on their helmets as a tribute to their former teammate.

Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan shared his thoughts, saying, “He was a great kid, a good player. Boy, he could skate. It was a privilege to be his coach. There are no words to explain how I feel about the whole circumstance. It’s just an incredible tragedy.”

A Commitment to Player Safety

In response to Johnson’s tragic death, the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA), the governing body of ice hockey in England and Wales, released a statement outlining its commitment to improving player safety. The EIHA strongly recommended that players at all levels use a neck guard/protector during on-ice activities, with mandatory use starting after December 31.

The EIHA expressed that it is “unacceptable for any player to lose their life while playing sport” and vowed to conduct a thorough review of player safety equipment, guide continuous improvement, and preemptively address foreseeable incidents.

A Promising Career Cut Short

Adam Johnson, originally from Hibbing, Minnesota, began his professional career in the American Hockey League before progressing to the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He played 13 games across two seasons with the Penguins, scoring four points. Johnson also had stints in Sweden and Germany before joining the Nottingham Panthers for the 2023-24 season.

The tragic loss of Adam Johnson serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of player safety in sports and the close-knit community that mourns the passing of one of its own.

The post Investigation Underway After American Ice Hockey Player Adam Johnson Dies in Tragic Accident appeared first on Sports News.

Jets’ Hot Seat: (Tie) Mark Chipman, Owner, and Kevin Cheveldayoff, GM

The Winnipeg Jets showed immense promise early in the last season but faltered in the second half, leaving fans disappointed. Their playoff run also ended in disappointment with a 4-1 series loss to Vegas. For many, the responsibility lies with GM Kevin Cheveldayoff and owner Mark Chipman, who have overseen the team since its move from Atlanta to Winnipeg in 2011.

Despite over a decade at the helm, the Jets seem to stagnate. Cheveldayoff’s reluctance to initiate a complete rebuild and his recent trade of star center Pierre-Luc Dubois to the Kings have raised concerns. With minimal cap space and a challenging path to the playoffs in 2023-24, the pressure is on. Failure to reach the postseason or an early exit could force significant changes in Winnipeg by the summer of 2024.

Jets’ Warm Seat: Mark Scheifele, C, and Connor Hellebuyck, G

Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck are entering the final season of their contracts and will become UFAs next summer. The absence of contract extensions raises questions about their futures in Winnipeg. GM Cheveldayoff may need to trade them before the next deadline to avoid losing them for nothing in free agency. Both players are 30 years old, and their following contracts will likely be substantial, long-term deals. It’s increasingly likely that they will part ways with the Jets before the trade deadline, fetching valuable assets from playoff-bound teams.

Jets’ Cold Seat: Josh Morrissey, D

Amidst the Jets’ challenges, Josh Morrissey emerged as a bright spot last season. He recorded an impressive 76 points, including 60 assists, doubling his career-best points total. Morrissey, at 28, led the Jets in average ice time with 24:13 and came at a reasonable cap hit of $6.25 million. He’s under contract until 2027-28, providing stability to the blue line. Morrissey’s status as a fixture in Winnipeg’s future remains secure, with a no-move clause in his contract and his exceptional contributions on the ice.

The post NHL Hot Seat Radar 2023: Winnipeg Jets appeared first on Sports News.

Katherine Henderson, the incoming President and Chief Executive Officer of Hockey Canada, praised Gina Kingsbury’s contributions to the sport, saying, “Gina’s contributions to Hockey Canada have helped create lifelong memories for millions of Canadian hockey fans, and we join them in congratulating her on today’s announcement. We are excited to work with Gina and the PWHL to support the upward trajectory of women’s hockey and ensure it continues to grow and inspire the next generation of participants and fans.”

Kingsbury’s journey to this pivotal role has been a remarkable one. After a distinguished 10-year playing career, she joined Hockey Canada in June 2016 as the Director of Hockey Operations. On July 10, 2018, she officially took the reins of Canada’s National Women’s Program, making history as the first woman to hold the title while overseeing both men’s, women’s, and para programs. Her dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on women’s hockey.

Reflecting on her time with Hockey Canada, Kingsbury expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am extremely grateful for all my experiences and time with Hockey Canada. Over the years, I have met the most incredible people through this great game and organization. I want to thank Hockey Canada for allowing me to represent my country as an athlete, vice president, and general manager. It has been an honor and a privilege that I will be forever grateful for.”

During her tenure, Kingsbury played a vital role in Canada’s National Women’s Team’s success, helping them secure back-to-back gold medals at the 2021 and 2022 IIHF Women’s World Championships. Additionally, she contributed to four silver medals (2016, 2017, 2018, 2023) and one bronze (2019) at Women’s Worlds. Her accomplishments also extend to the Olympic stage, where she won silver and gold at the 2018 and 2022 Olympic Winter Games. Her impact reverberated through Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team, clinching three gold medals (2019, 2022, 2023) at the IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship and four silver (2016, 2017, 2018, 2020). Kingsbury’s passion for the sport was evident as she served as an assistant coach at the 2016 U18 Women’s Worlds, winning a silver medal.

Kingsbury achieved remarkable success as a player, winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals in 2006 and 2010 and collecting multiple gold and silver medals at the IIHF World Women’s Championship. She tallied 86 points over 137 career games with Team Canada, firmly establishing her as a standout performer in women’s hockey.

While Kingsbury’s departure from Hockey Canada marks a significant change, her contributions to the organization over nearly two decades will leave a lasting legacy. Pat McLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer at Hockey Canada, acknowledged Kingsbury’s impact, saying, “Gina has made a tremendous impact on Hockey Canada, the National Women’s Program, and the game across the globe. While it is difficult to lose someone who has done so much to make our organization successful, we thank Gina for her dedication for the better part of 17 years.”

Moving forward, the day-to-day operations of the National Women’s Program will be overseen by Scott Salmond, Senior Vice-President of Hockey Operations, and members of the organization’s hockey operations department. As Gina Kingsbury embarks on this exciting new chapter with the PWHL, the world of women’s hockey eagerly anticipates the positive impact she will continue to make as General Manager of the Toronto franchise.

The post Gina Kingsbury to Join Professional Women’s Hockey League as General Manager of Toronto Franchise appeared first on Sports News.

The trailer showcases some of the new features and improvements that NHL 24 boasts, such as the Exhaust Engine powered by EA’s Frostbite engine, which creates more realistic and immersive body checks, reactions, and fatigue effects. The trailer also highlights the Total Control Skill Moves, which allow players to pull off dazzling dekes and dangles with more ease and fluidity. The Vision Passing System, which gives players more options and precision when passing the puck, is also demonstrated in the trailer.

Of course, the trailer also features the cover star of NHL 24, Cale Makar, the Colorado Avalanche defenseman who won the Stanley Cup, the Conn Smythe Trophy, and the Norris Trophy in the 2021-22 season. Makar is seen scoring goals, making plays, and celebrating with his teammates in various scenes throughout the trailer. He is also heard narrating some parts of the trailer, expressing his excitement and passion for hockey and NHL 24.

Makar is the second Avalanche player to grace the cover of an NHL game, after Peter Forsberg in 1998. He is also the fifth defenseman in the history of the series, and the first since P.K. Subban in 2019. Makar said he was honored to have this opportunity, and that NHL 24 represents everything he loves about hockey.

NHL 24 will be released on Oct. 6 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. Fans who preorder will get a variety of bonus in-game content, such as an exclusive Makar player item, a HUT Power-Up Icon of choice, and a WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier x5

The post NHL 24 Releases Exciting Gameplay Trailer Featuring Cover Star Cale Makar appeared first on Sports News.

The NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) met with NHL officials on Friday in New York to discuss this matter. According to the NHLPA, an ongoing review process is in motion. In a statement released on Friday, the NHLPA stated, “During this meeting, we provided the NHL with an update on our ongoing review. We do not have any further comment at this time.”

As of now, the NHL itself has not issued an official statement regarding the situation, leaving the Columbus Blue Jackets and the hockey world in suspense just days before the opening of training camp.

John Davidson, the Blue Jackets’ President of Hockey Operations, spoke briefly, saying, “We’ve had discussions. We’re trying to digest things and go from there. There’s nothing further to say.”

The explosive allegations initially surfaced from Paul Bissonnette, a former NHL player and co-host of the “Spittin Chiclets Podcast.” Bissonnette cited an anonymous NHL player’s text message claiming that Babcock had gone through the photos on Blue Jackets players’ phones during individual meetings. This revelation sent shockwaves throughout the league.

Babcock’s hiring on July 1 had already raised concerns due to previous allegations of “bullying” behavior during his coaching tenures with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings. He mentioned that he had gained insights into personal interactions during his four-year hiatus from the NHL, especially during his one-season coaching stint at the University of Saskatchewan.

Hours after the podcast episode’s release, the Blue Jackets released statements from Mike Babcock and team captain Boone Jenner. These statements aimed to refute the allegations and provide context for the coach’s request to view players’ family photos or other significant images on their phones. The podcast had specifically mentioned Boone Jenner’s meeting with Babcock.

In response to the accusations, Jenner and Babcock contacted various media outlets to explain their side of the story and challenge the allegations. Paul Bissonnette and co-host Ryan Whitney, both former NHL players, stood by their accounts, insisting they had heard similar stories from numerous NHL players.

Notably, Boone Jenner was not alone in asserting that the allegations were exaggerated. Johnny Gaudreau and Zach Werenski, fellow Blue Jackets players, echoed Jenner’s sentiments.

Mike Babcock was observed watching the Blue Jackets’ opening game at the Traverse City NHL Prospects Tournament, which the team won 7-3. General manager Jarmo Kekalainen and other top officials from the organization were also present.

The Blue Jackets are scheduled to undergo medical evaluations on Wednesday and begin their training camp on Thursday in Columbus. However, the resolution of the Babcock situation remains uncertain, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the team’s preparations for the upcoming season.

As the hockey world eagerly awaits the findings and recommendations from the NHL and NHLPA inquiries, the Columbus Blue Jackets and their fans are left in suspense, hoping for clarity before the season kicks off.

The post Columbus Blue Jackets Await NHL, NHLPA Findings on Mike Babcock Phone Privacy Issue appeared first on Sports News.

In anticipation of this momentous occasion, draft rankings have surfaced throughout the week. It’s recommended to check out orders from reputable sources such as The Victory Press, The Hockey News, and mock drafts provided by The Athletic, The Ice Garden, and The Hockey News to prepare for the unfolding drama this afternoon.

Here’s a quick rundown of the rules governing the draft and what fans can anticipate from the Ottawa team:

The Rules:

1. The draft will consist of 15 rounds, with 90 players set to be selected.
2. The selection order adheres to a snake draft format, which reverses after each round. This format offers teams like Ottawa, which has the second-to-last pick in the first round, the second pick in the second round, and so on.
3. A total of 268 players have declared for the draft, and you can find the complete list online.
4. In the inaugural draft, trades involving picks are not permitted. However, in the future, teams will have the option to trade picks.
5. The draft has no age restrictions, allowing players of all ages to participate. This year, the youngest player to declare is just 16 years old.
6. Current NCAA players are ineligible for the draft, but recent NCAA graduates, previously excluded from free agency, are eligible for selection. This could lead to some early-round picks.
7. While there may not be explicit rules against it, it’s unlikely that teams will employ the “draft and hold rights until they sign” strategy prevalent in men’s hockey. It seems that all drafted players are expected to play next season, given the team’s need to build their rosters from scratch.
8. Players must declare for the draft to be eligible for training camp invitations, making it impossible to skip the draft in favor of choosing their destination. After the draft, teams will have 18 players, leaving room for a few free-agent additions.
9. Players can apply for compassionate circumstances waivers, ensuring they can only be drafted by one team. While the list of applicants remains undisclosed, some players, such as Madison Packer, have publicly expressed their intentions to use this waiver to stay with specific teams. Teams might strategically employ these cases if a top player unexpectedly drops in the draft.

What to Expect from Ottawa:

Insiders suggest that the PWHL draft may strike a middle ground between the traditional women’s hockey format, where players control their destination, and the men’s hockey system, where teams exercise complete control. Compassionate circumstances waivers are expected to be used sparingly. It appears that the athletes are eager for this league to offer a truly professional experience, including the excitement of being drafted. However, teams are likely to consider players’ preferences regarding location when making selections.

With this in mind, Ottawa will likely focus on players with connections to the city or those who have expressed interest in joining the team.

Several players are expected to be off the board before Ottawa makes its first selection. For instance, Taylor Heise, a Minnesota native who played at the University of Minnesota last year, is all but guaranteed to be the first overall pick, heading to her home state of Minnesota. Although Toronto may not pick Alina Müller at second overall, it’s doubtful she will fall past Boston at third. The selections of Toronto (2nd) and New York (4th) will remain mysteries and may influence Ottawa’s choices.

Possible Targets:

The absence of Jamie Lee Rattray among Ottawa’s initial signings has led many to speculate that she may be a prime draft choice for the team. Given the snake draft format, with only two picks between Ottawa’s first two selections, they might choose another player at 5th overall if they believe Montreal won’t select Rattray, waiting until the second round to secure her.

Sophie Jaques, a college graduate and winner of the Patty Kazmaier Award as the college player of the year, could be a perfect fit for Ottawa. She’s a talented young defender and Canadian, a position Ottawa has yet to fill. While she seems like an ideal choice at 5th overall, her talent might make her a long shot.

Mock drafts have suggested Erin Ambrose as a potential 5th overall pick for Ottawa. Ambrose, one of Team Canada’s top defenders, is a bit younger than another notable name, Jocelyn Larocque, making her an attractive option.

The post PWHL Draft Primer and Open Thread appeared first on Sports News.

The 2022-23 season was a rollercoaster ride for the Oilers, marked by remarkable achievements and moments that left fans pleased and disappointed. Let’s dissect the season and the players who shaped it.

Connor McDavid: The Maestro of the Ice

As the captain of the Oilers, Connor McDavid’s performance throughout the 2022-23 season was nothing short of extraordinary. McDavid set a new standard for excellence with 64 goals, 89 assists, and a staggering 153 points in the regular season. It’s safe to say he put together one of the best seasons in NHL history.

What’s most impressive is that McDavid elevated his game even further during the playoffs. In 12 postseason games, he notched eight goals and 12 assists, accumulating 20 points. This remarkable postseason performance demonstrated McDavid’s ability to shine when it matters most and solidified his status as one of the league’s elite players.

McDavid’s impact extended beyond his offensive prowess. He logged significant penalty-killing minutes and was crucial in maintaining a nearly even goal differential while shorthanded. His well-rounded game earned him recognition at the NHL Awards, where he added more hardware to his growing collection.

For Oilers fans, McDavid’s performance was a source of immense pride and optimism. He remains the heart and soul of the team, a player who can single-handedly change the course of a game.

As the Oilers look to the future, Connor McDavid’s brilliance continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for fans, reminding them that the team’s championship aspirations are well within reach as long as he is leading the charge.

In Part 3 of our series, we’ll continue to delve into the Oilers’ roster, exploring the performances and approval ratings of other key players who contributed to the team’s journey during the 2022-23 season. Stay tuned for more insights into the pulse of Edmonton’s hockey scene.

The post Oilers Approval Ratings: Analyzing the Players Who Define Edmonton’s Hockey Scene appeared first on Sports News.

A British Beginning

The story of the Stanley Cup had a modest and somewhat unexpected beginning. 1892, the trophy was born and christened after Lord Stanley of Preston, the Governor General of Canada. This illustrious trophy was not extravagant; it was acquired for ten guineas, translating to roughly $50 today. Lord Stanley was inspired to establish this award after witnessing an ice hockey match between two amateur clubs in Montreal. Struck by the players’ skill and enthusiasm, he envisioned a trophy fostering a spirit of competition in the burgeoning sport.

The Formative Years

In its infancy, the Stanley Cup was far from the high-stakes, big-budget spectacle that characterizes today’s National Hockey League (NHL). Surprisingly, the NHL didn’t exist until 1917, a quarter-century after the Stanley Cup’s inception. Initially, this prestigious trophy was awarded to the best amateur team in Canada, and challenges for the Cup could be issued by any team willing to vie for it. Teams from various leagues across North America began to vie for the opportunity to win this illustrious Cup, with some groups even crossing the Atlantic Ocean to compete and bring international acclaim to the competition.

Transformative Times

As the 20th century unfolded, the Stanley Cup underwent significant transformations, mirroring the growth and evolution of ice hockey itself. With the establishment of the NHL, the trophy gradually became the exclusive prize for the league’s champions, solidifying its status as the ultimate achievement in professional ice hockey. Unlike other sports trophies, which are crafted yearly, the Stanley Cup is unique. The names of winning teams are engraved directly onto its gleaming surface, ensuring every champion becomes an enduring part of its history.

Moments of Legend

The Stanley Cup has witnessed some of the most unforgettable moments in sports history. Whether it’s Bobby Orr soaring to net a championship-winning goal for the Boston Bruins in 1970 or Wayne Gretzky leading the Edmonton Oilers to multiple titles during the 1980s, this iconic trophy has stood at the epicenter of legendary milestones. Remarkably, the odds of predicting these legendary moments are not always in favor of the favorites, adding an element of unpredictability and drama to the sport. However, the Cup’s legacy isn’t solely built on triumphs but has witnessed its share of mishaps and peculiarities. From being inadvertently left on the side of the road to being repurposed as a flowerpot, the Stanley Cup has embarked on a colorful array of adventures that have only added to its charm and folklore.

The Living Archive

Today, the Stanley Cup stands as a living testament to countless athletes’ dreams, aspirations, and accomplishments. Unlike any other trophy in professional sports, it carries within it the engraved names of every team and player that has ever hoisted it, narrating a story perpetually etched in silver and steeped in history. As a new season dawns and the race for the next championship ignites, one thing remains constant: the memorable place of the Stanley Cup in the heart and soul of ice hockey. It’s more than a trophy; it’s a cherished relic that continues to unite generations of fans and players in their shared love for the game, making it a hockey holy grail.

The post The Tale of the Stanley Cup: From Humble Beginnings to Hockey Holy Grail appeared first on Sports News.