SPORT-SCAN DAILY BRIEF NHL 01/02/19 Arizona Coyotes Blackhawks 1123806 'Arizona is our home': Coyotes address ownership, 1123837 Despite Winter Classic loss, Blackhawks were able to play relocation rumors in letter to fans like a champion at 1123807 Arizona Coyotes release letter to fans, address ownership 1123838 8 takeaways from the Blackhawks' 4-2 loss to the Bruins speculation in the Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium 1123808 19 for 2019: The most intriguing Arizona sports figures for 1123839 Winter Classic games never get dull for Blackhawks the year ahead 1123840 2019 Winter Classic: Blackhawks lose to Bruins, but the charge is worth watching Bruins 1123841 After difficult month, finds success with 1123809 Naturally, steps up for Bruins in classic Blackhawks fashion 1123842 2019 NHL Winter Classic: Bruins 4, Blackhawks 2 1123810 Bruins win the Winter Classic over Chicago 1123843 2020 NHL Winter Classic: Stars to host TBA opponent at 1123811 Bruins make a Classic statement on and off the ice Cotton Bowl Stadium 1123812 Bruins Notebook: Patrice Bergeron comes up big again 1123844 Next Winter Classic will be in Dallas, likely without the 1123813 shines on Winter Classic stage Blackhawks 1123814 Kuraly late powers Bruins to Winter Classic win 1123845 Rozner: Notre Dame was the real star of this Winter 1123815 Bruins pregame notes: Winter Classic the center stage for Classic Marchand 1123846 Blackhawks' Ward very grateful for his Winter Classic start 1123816 Bruins hope to ride the momentum from a feel-good 1123847 Winter Classic loss hurts, but Blackhawks remain Classic win encouraged by bigger picture 1123817 'Special stage' at Winter Classic shows Tuukka Rask can 1123848 10 takeaways from Winter Classic: Blackhawks put on excel in big games show, but outdoor struggles continue 1123818 What did Tuukka Rask mean by his postgame comments? 1123849 Brendan Perlini shows what he’s capable of during Winter 1123819 Big Game Kuraly strikes again at Winter Classic Classic 1123820 Talking Points: Bruins guns, big and small, step up in 1123850 Lazerus: After miserable two months, Blackhawks finding Classic win fun – and meaning – in games again 1123821 Here's what happened in the Bruins' Winter Classic 4-2 win over the Blackhawks Avalanche 1123822 Here's the story behind Bruins' "Peaky Blinders" Winter 1123851 Avalanche to host NHL outdoor game at Air Force Classic outfits Academy in 2020 1123823 Jake DeBrusk excited as 1st time Classic participant: "Not 1123852 And the team with the most OT losses in the NHL? Yep. a bad time to have a good game" It’s the Avalanche 1123824 excited to finally get his chance at the 1123853 ’s 19 in ’19: What to look for in the new year Winter Classic 1123854 Why the NHL decided to come back to Colorado so fast 1123825 Zdeno Chara models Bruins' spiffy Winter Classic jersey for another outdoor game on Instagram 1123855 Why Ryan Graves could be an undiscovered gem for the 1123826 McDonald: Bruins shined on NHL’s giant open-air stage, Avalanche and hope that’s a good sign for future 1123856 Call it a comeback: No lead safe as late rallies on the rise Buffalo Sabres 1123827 Travis Yost's Sabre Metrics: What Sabres need from 1123857 Artemi Panarin's offensive show, run to playoffs marked Casey Mittelstadt Blue Jackets' 2018 1123828 Scott Wilson nearing return, could bolster Sabres' depth at 1123858 Five takeaways from win over the Senators center 1123859 Eric Robinson made quick trip from Cleveland after call-up 1123829 Round and round they go: A look at how the Sabres’ 1123860 Blue Jackets 6, Senators 3 | Hard-working goals propel second- and third-line combinations have performed Jackets in Nick Foligno's absence Calgary Flames Dallas Stars 1123830 Flames to play Jets in NHL Heritage Classic in Regina 1123861 NHL commissioner Gary Bettman comments on Stars 1123831 Flames’ top line ‘up there with the best’ in NHL CEO Jim Lites' criticism of Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin 1123832 Flames end the year with fireworks, 8-5 win over Sharks 1123862 How and why the Dallas Stars and Cotton Bowl landed the 1123833 Agent’s tweet puts Flames’ Frolik in spotlight ahead of NHL's 2020 Winter Classic New Year’s Eve game 1123863 Dallas Stars to host 2020 NHL Winter Classic at the 1123834 As the calendar flips to 2019, Flames are well-positioned Cotton Bowl; which team would you like to see them play? in the West: Six keys to staying put in the standing 1123864 NHL’s Winter Classic in Texas will bring ice rink to Cotton 1123835 LeBrun Notebook: Chiarelli under pressure to deliver in Bowl Edmonton, agent’s tweet sparks Frolik controversy 1123865 Q&A: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on 2020 Winter Classic, state of the Stars, and Lites comments 1123866 How the NHL’s 2020 Winter Classic ended up in Dallas’ 1123836 Predators claim Di Giuseppe on waivers from Canes Cotton Bowl NHL 1123867 Detroit Red Wings lose another veteran defenseman to 1123897 Call it a comeback: No lead safe as late rallies on the rise broken foot 1123898 Bettman says he hasn’t talked to Stars about Lites’ 1123868 How Detroit Red Wings hope to offset key losses on comments defense 1123869 Detroit Red Wings midseason grades: Young players Ottawa Senators respond in big roles 1123899 Mark Stone says contract talks are about to heat up with 1123870 Injuries to defense another test of Red Wings' character, Senators depth 1123900 Last place Ottawa Senators try something different on New Year's Day 1123901 Senators and Blue Jackets share similar free agency 1123871 Petrovic and Manning passed their first Oilers tests on question marks blueline 1123902 Senators ready to send Tom Pyatt packing 1123872 LeBrun Notebook: Chiarelli under pressure to deliver in 1123903 Stevenson: More pain coming in 2019 before things get Edmonton, agent’s tweet sparks Frolik controversy better for Senators fans 1123873 Peter Chiarelli’s reasoning for acquiring Brandon Manning doesn’t add up Philadelphia Flyers 1123874 Oilers No. 9 prospect, Winter 2018: Joel Persson 1123904 Backup Nashville goalie shuts out Flyers in 4th straight loss Florida Panthers 1123905 Flyers' rookie Carter Hart not worried about rebounding 1123875 Panthers set milestones in Monday’s surprising comeback from his first NHL clunker victory against Red Wings 1123906 Five observations from Flyers’ latest loss: Is it time for new 1123876 So close, yet so far: An uneven 2018 comes to a close for GM to be in selling mode? the Florida Panthers 1123907 It never gets old when Flyers winger James van Riemsdyk faces his brother Trevor 1123908 Rookie goalie Carter Hart struggles as Flyers fall to 1123877 Kings can’t wake offense as Vegas pitches shutout Carolina, 3-1, for third straight loss 1123878 What we learned from the Kings' 3-2 victory over the 1123909 Carter Hart to start for Flyers, who must prove they’re Avalanche playoff contenders by taking care of Hurricanes 1123879 Kings’ Jack Campbell stars under heavy pressure in loss 1123910 Flyers’ Jori Lehtera charged in Finnish drug case, to Vegas prosecutors seek five-month sentence 1123880 JANUARY 1 RAPID REACTION (FEAT. DARYL EVANS): 1123911 Flyers try to regroup from crushing loss; power play still GOLDEN KNIGHTS 2, KINGS 0 struggling mightily 1123881 GAME 41: LOS ANGELES AT VEGAS 1123912 Flyers stunned by two late goals in loss to Panthers 1123882 CAMPBELL TO START, NO OTHER LINEUP CHANGES 1123913 Flyers prospect Joel Farabee stars in United States' win in EXPECTED TONIGHT VERSUS VEGAS World Junior tournament 1123883 WAKING UP WITH THE KINGS: JANUARY 1 1123914 Jordan Weal to replace Nolan Patrick in Flyers lineup; Carter Hart in net against Panthers Minnesota Wild 1123915 Interim Scott Gordon makes a favorable early 1123884 Lack of power plays compounding Wild's scoring problems impression on energized Flyers | Sam Carchidi 1123885 Defenseman Ryan Murphy called up from Iowa by Wild 1123916 Predators 4, Flyers 0: Another ugly road trip poses more 1123886 A brief history of Wild swoons: Is this the one that will end questions the playoff streak? 1123917 Flyers at Predators: Live stream, storylines, game time and more Montreal Canadiens 1123918 What does 2019 hold for Flyers pending free agent Wayne 1123887 In the Habs' Room: 'Adjustments,' confidence earn 4-2 Simmonds? record, playoff position 1123888 Melnick’s GBU: The Canadiens close out 2018 with some Pittsburgh Penguins Texas-sized fireworks 1123919 An in-depth look at Matt Murray's turnaround for Penguins 1123920 The Penguins' Zach Aston-Reese is capable right now of Nashville Predators doing his best Hornqvist impression 1123889 Tuesday's recap: Predators 4, Flyers 0 1123921 20 Penguins Thoughts: How Mike Sullivan has been 1123890 Predators center Ryan Johansen: 'We didn't like 2018 that pushing all the right buttons much' 1123891 P.K. Subban to have original TV show called 'The PK San Jose Sharks Project' 1123922 What we know -- and what we don't -- about Sharks at NHL halfway point 1123923 NHL rumors: Sam Bennett won't be disciplined for hit on 1123892 NJ Devils place Taylor Hall on injured reserve Radim Simek 1123924 New Year’s resolutions Bay Area sports teams will try to New York Islanders keep in 2019 1123893 Isles' Barry Trotz focuses on games, not on Hall of Fame 1123925 Sharks ticked over Sam Bennett's 'predatory' hit that hurt potential Radim Simek New York Rangers 1123894 Rangers skating into New Year with revamped expectations 1123895 The Rangers’ horrific unit suddenly is not so horrific 1123896 Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist happy to be fighting for playoff spot St Louis Blues Winnipeg Jets 1123926 Blues put Butler, Nolan on waivers 1123947 JETS SNAPSHOTS: Lemieux a difference-maker in win 1123927 NHL makes it official: All-Stars will converge on St. Louis over Oilers in 2020 1123948 Jets looking forward to hosting Flames in Heritage Classic 1123928 It's official: NHL All-Star Game coming to St. Louis in 2020 next season in Regina 1123949 Jets captain Wheeler far from satisfied after his team’s Tampa Bay Lightning impressive year 1123929 Lightning’s Erik Cernak is ‘too good for us to send back’ SPORT-SCAN, INC. 941-284-4129 1123930 Lightning-Ducks: Rewinding the Lightning’s low-scoring win 1123931 Lightning beat Anaheim in overtime 1123932 How many All-Stars will the Lightning have? Only Kucherov seems like a lock. Maple Leafs 1123933 Leafs pulling out stops to snap Nylander’s slump | The Star 1123934 Canada confident ahead of rematch with Finnish foes at world juniors | The Star 1123935 On the trail of the Maple Leafs in Brooklyn and Jersey 1123936 LEAFS SNAPSHOTS: Goaltender Andersen hopes for quick return 1123937 LOOKING BACK: Best Maple Leafs quotes of 2018, month by month 1123938 Leafs prospects Dakota Joshua, Ryan O’Connell travel unlikely paths together at Ohio State Vancouver Canucks 1123950 Patrick Johnston: Thrill of playing in front of friends and family never fades for Canucks 1123951 Fixing the Canucks in free agency: Improving defence and goaltending 1123952 Who are the top draft-eligible prospects at this year’s world juniors? And how could they help the Canucks? Vegas Golden Knights 1123939 Pirri’s play for Knights making McPhee’s decision tougher by the goal 1123940 Golden Knights blank Kings 2-0 to open new year 1123941 Golden Knights begin pivotal month on NHL calendar 1123942 GAME DAY: Golden Knights usher in new year against Kings 1123943 Golden Knights outlast Kings in low-scoring battle 1123944 2019 Looks Like 2018 for Golden Knights: Another 18,300 Plus Crowd, Shutout, Free Donuts, Win Washington Capitals 1123945 ‘New year and new hockey’: Alex Ovechkin not sweating six-game goal drought 1123946 Adjustments needed as Alex Ovechkin, top line have gone dry for Capitals Websites 1123953 The Athletic / Q&A: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on 2020 Winter Classic, state of the Stars, and Lites commen 1123954 .ca / Best of Winter Classic: Bruins top Blackhawks at Notre Dame Stadium 1123955 Sportsnet.ca / Coyotes CEO reaffirms commitment to Arizona in letter to fans 1123956 Sportsnet.ca / Flames Thoughts: Flames hope to keep good times rolling in 2019 1123957 Sportsnet.ca / Calgary Flames' scorching offence closes 2018 in style 1123958 TSN.CA / Finnish coach playing underdog card against Canada 1123959 TSN.CA / Poehling the MVP so far at World Juniors 1123960 TSN.CA / Canada's road to gold a rocky one after loss to Russia 1123961 USA TODAY / As the NHL season enters 2019, here are things that we don't want to see 1123962 USA TODAY / Opinion: Time for to take a break from the Winter Classic 1123806 Arizona Coyotes win that way. You can't change every time something bad happens. You've got to stay strong.

"... That's the message to fans; you've got to stick with it." 'Arizona is our home': Coyotes address ownership, relocation rumors in letter to fans Coyotes outdoors?

With the 2019 Winter Classic taking place on Tuesday, desert hockey fans are once again left wondering if the NHL's premier outdoor event of Richard Morin, Arizona Republic the season could one day feature a team like the Coyotes or even the Published 12:35 p.m. MT Jan. 1, 2019 | Updated 7:15 p.m. MT Jan. 1, Vegas Golden Knights. 2019 Multiple sources said Tuesday that the Coyotes would certainly have interest in playing such a game, especially if it also featured a team that dwells in a warm-weather climate such as themselves. Coyotes President and CEO Ahron Cohen addressed several rumors surrounding the team and thanked fans for their support in a letter to Although the Winter Classic is generally played in a cold-weather climate season-ticket holders published by the team on Tuesday. and features teams with storied histories (which, incidentally, also correspond to teams in cold-weather climates), the 2020 Winter Classic In the letter, Cohen directly addressed rumblings of an imminent change will take place at the Cotton Bowl in Texas next year and host a matchup in ownership by stating what he told The Republic a number of months between the Dallas Stars and an opponent to be named later. ago, which is that the club is continuing to seek creative solutions in order to better finance its future. According to multiple sources, the Stars' opponent for next season has not yet been determined and the Coyotes aren't holding their breath for a "(One) quality that matters to our organization is honesty," Cohen wrote. phone call. Still, it's worth pondering what such a game could look like if it "For that reason, I have and will continue to be forthcoming about matters featured the Coyotes. related to our franchise. While it’s neither necessary nor prudent to address every unsubstantiated Internet report or tweet, it is important to State Farm Stadium, Chase Field or even the newly renovated Sun Devil communicate where things stand to our fans." Stadium could provide an excellent backdrop for an outdoor game. There is also precedent for the NHL holding an outdoor game in a warm- Cohen went so far as to reiterate that any potential deal involving a weather climate, as the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings did battle change in ownership would be predicated on the Coyotes remaining in at Dodger Stadium as part of the 2014 Stadium Series. Arizona for the foreseeable future. The NHL also announced Tuesday that a Stadium Series game will be "Recently, you may have read reports about a potential ownership played next season at the Air Force Academy's Falcon Stadium with the transaction," Cohen wrote. "As I have said for months, we will continue to playing host against an opponent to be named later. explore investment opportunities to better assist our team in achieving The return of the Heritage Classic will also take place in Regina, our long-term goals and organizational vision. This process has at its Saskatchewan between the Winnipeg Jets and Calgary Flames in core one key pre-condition: any investment in our team must be laser- October 2019. focused on helping the Coyotes achieve a long-term sustainable arena solution here in Arizona. Perhaps if the Coyotes can figure out their own long-term arena solution in Arizona, they could eventually be in the mix for some outdoor hockey. "Arizona is our home. We love it here. And we love playing for you, the very best fans in the NHL."

Thank you for your ongoing support. Arizona Republic LOADED: 01.02.2019

Thank you for coming out to cheer us on.

Thank you for taking time out of your busy days and nights to watch us on TV and online.

Over the years, the Coyotes have been no strangers to changes in ownership and relocation rumors, but the Coyotes don't get the sense that those things can't be mutually exclusive in this case.

Cohen mentioned the $2.7 million the Coyotes donated back to the community and the addition of Chandler native and Olympic hockey star Lyndsey Fry as a team ambassador as some of the most positive impacts the club has had and continues to have on the Arizona community.

But there were was also some subtext of what the Coyotes need to do in order to take the next step as a franchise and further entrench their feet in the Arizona desert.

"Our pledge to you for 2019 is a simple one," Cohen wrote. "We will continue to fiercely pursue our core goals of producing a winning hockey team, growing fandom throughout this state and positively enriching our Arizona community. We will not accept failure. And we will pursue excellence with the highest possible degree of commitment and character.

"... Every potential investment opportunity we evaluate and every business deal we consider is predicated on making our franchise successful here in Arizona for decades to come."

Second-year head coach Rick Tocchet, when asked if he had his own, hockey-first message for the Coyotes faithful, preached patience to the fanbase.

"Personally, you've got to trust the process," Tocchet said. "You can't change from week to week. It can't be one week where this team is really good and then you lose three games and this team is terrible. You can't 1123807 Arizona Coyotes

Arizona Coyotes release letter to fans, address ownership speculation

BY MATT LAYMAN

JANUARY 1, 2019 AT 12:35 PM

UPDATED: JANUARY 1, 2019 AT 12:57 PM

The Arizona Coyotes released a letter to their fanbase on Tuesday, ringing in the New Year by addressing reports and speculation regarding the team’s ownership situation.

The letter comes following almost a year of reports that the Coyotes were exploring a sale of the team, or even that sale was imminent. In December, sources told 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station’s Dan Bickley that a sale of the team was coming. Reports earlier in the year also indicated that a change in ownership either could or would happen in the near future.

There has also been speculation that Arizona’s NHL franchise could be relocated to Houston after it was made known that Seattle’s expansion team would bump the Coyotes to the league’s . Additionally, there were reports that Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta had met with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman about the prospects of getting the NHL to Houston, and one report said that he had engaged in preliminary talks of buying the Coyotes, though nothing was close.

Team president and CEO Ahron Cohen — the speaker who is addressing fans in the team’s letter — zeroed in specifically on ownership and relocation rumors, among other things:

Recently, you may have read reports about a potential ownership transaction. As I have said for months, we will continue to explore investment opportunities to better assist our team in achieving our long- term goals and organizational vision. This process has at its core one key pre-condition: any investment in our team must be laser-focused on helping the Coyotes achieve a long-term sustainable arena solution here in Arizona.

Every potential investment opportunity we evaluate and every business deal we consider is predicated on making our franchise successful here in Arizona for decades to come.

Arizona is our home. We love it here. And we love playing for you, the very best fans in the NHL.

The team is currently owned by Andrew Barroway, who bought out the rest of a group of owners in June of 2017.

The Coyotes play on a year-to-year lease at Gila River Arena that automatically renews if the team doesn’t opt out. The team did in fact let its lease renew for the year 2019, a move that comes of little surprise.

Cohen’s letter also reflected on the team’s successes of 2018, ranging from the growth of the team under head coach Rick Tocchet; the eight- year contract extension given to now-captain Oliver Ekman-Larsson; the resilience of the team to battle through injuries and stay within the Western Conference picture at the turn of the calendar year; the Coyotes’ more-than $2.7 million of donations to the community; and the hiring of brand ambassador Lyndsey Fry.

As we reach the start of the new year – and the approximate halfway point of the 2018-19 season – it feels like the perfect moment to pause and thank every member of our Coyotes family for the successes we experienced as an organization during 2018. Everything we’ve accomplished on the ice and off has been made possible by your passion for #OurPack and your commitment to the Arizona Coyotes.

Cohen is in his first season as president and CEO after being promoted to the position in July of 2018. He has been with the Coyotes organization since August of 2015.

Arizona Sports LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123808 Arizona Coyotes The Suns interim co-general , who joined Phoenix’s front office in the summer of 2017, rapidly elevated to his current post when Ryan McDonough was fired right before the season began. In Phoenix owner 19 for 2019: The most intriguing Arizona sports figures for the year ahead Robert Sarver’s only comments to a media outlet since firing McDonough, he told the Suns’ flagship radio station that he would not rush into permanently filling the general manager post. Whether the organization takes the interim tag off Jones will likely be determined by By The Athletic Arizona Staff how he handles upcoming roster-building benchmarks such as the trade Jan 1, 2019 deadline — and if he can finally land that long-coveted established traditional point guard.

No. 13: Antti Raanta It’s largely been a difficult calendar year for fans of Arizona teams, but the manner in which events played out served to set the table for an The Coyotes goalie has proved he can play at an elite level when he’s interesting 2019. healthy, but there’s the rub: he’s not healthy enough. He only played in 47 games last season (46 starts) due to an assortment of injuries, and he The team at The Athletic Arizona huddled to come up with the 19 people is likely out for this season after knee surgery earlier this month. If he most worthy of your attention. As always, these lists are subject to does not return, he will have played just 12 games in 2018-19. The debate – and we welcome your comments and opinions. Coyotes signed Raanta to a three-year extension in April that runs through the 2020-21 season. That will make the 2019-20 season a From 19 to 1 (*liberties were taken during the finalization of this list): critical one for Raanta’s future. If he can’t stay healthy, it may be time to No. 19 and 19a: and Eric Hinske turn to goalie-of-the-future Adin Hill.

The Diamondbacks were an abysmal offensive team in 2018, and now all No. 12: Rick Tocchet three of their coaching/strategizing minds are with different organizations. Less than a season and a half into his head coaching tenure with the Hitting coach was let go and now has the same position Coyotes, Tocchet has already faced criticism from a fan base that too with the Rockies. Assistant hitting coach Tim Laker was passed over for easily glosses over the team’s lack of high-end players. That the Coyotes the lead job, but has since taken the head position in Seattle. Hitting were within five points of a playoff spot coming out of the Christmas strategist Robert Van Scoyoc is now the game’s youngest hitting coach break is a small wonder, considering their spate of key injuries (goalie with the Dodgers. Replacing them are Coles and Hinske, formerly with Antti Raanta, forwards Christian Dvorak, Alex Galchenyuk, Michael the Brewers and Angels, respectively. Too much emphasis is put on a Grabner, Vinnie Hinostroza, and defenseman Jason Demers). Next hitting coach’s effect on team performance, but people will be watching season, Tocchet will enter the third year of his four-year deal and — how the Diamondbacks — and the Rockies, Dodgers and Mariners — hit understanding the ownership ambiguity — the Coyotes must show in 2019. progress and join legitimate contention for a playoff spot. No. 18 and 18a: Jayden Daniels and Joey Yellen No. 11: Patrick Peterson The story of Arizona State’s offseason will focus on the quarterback Don’t think for a minute that Peterson is suddenly content playing on a 3- position. Three-year starter Manny Wilkins is gone. His replacement? 13 football team. He’s wasting the prime years of his career and it There’s a good chance it’ll be a true freshman. Coach Herm Edwards wouldn’t be a surprise if he or his agent quietly go to the Cardinals in the has made it clear: He’ll side with talent over experience every time, even offseason and double down on their trade request. Peterson could try to at the game’s most important position. Four-star prospects, Daniels and force Arizona’s hand by saying he’ll skip offseason work and training Yellen will be a part of a larger competition that includes rising junior camp if he’s not dealt. Dillon Sterling-Cole, but odds are they’ll get every chance to win the job, starting in spring practice. Special dispensation, editor’s allowance

No. 17: Amiel Sawdaye The eternal No. 11: Larry Fitzgerald: He needs to be No. 11 – just because of his standing in Arizona sports, and no Cardinals player The Diamondbacks assistant general manager is in charge of amateur should wear his No. 11 again. Let’s be honest. If Fitzgerald returns for a scouting, and the upcoming year will be a big one for him. Not only will 16th season it will be one of the Cardinals’ biggest stories in 2019. If he he be charged with continuing to make an impact in the international retires, it will be one of the Cardinals’ biggest stories in 2019. Like former market, but the Diamondbacks have an enviable draft haul that comes Coyotes great Shane Doan, Fitzgerald has become synonymous with his around only once a decade or so. It’s an opportunity they cannot afford to franchise. squander as they look to refill their farm system. On top of that, Sawdaye was a candidate to run the Giants’ baseball ops this offseason. It No. 10: Eno Benjamin wouldn’t be surprising if he wound up with other GM looks going forward. The running back from Texas showed flashes his freshman season. No. 16: Luguentz Dort Problem was, he was stuck behind two seasons so he had to wait his turn. That changed this past season. Arizona State coach Herm Edwards The freshman from Montreal arrived in Tempe as a bit of an unknown in made Benjamin his featured back, and Benjamin flourished. In his fifth the States. It didn’t take long for that to change. The 6-4 guard quickly game, he rushed for a school-record 312 yards against Oregon State. He established himself as Arizona State’s go-to player, helping boost the finished with a school-record 1,642 yards, placing him within the Sun Devils into the national polls. The NBA noticed. More than 30 scouts country’s top five. If ASU can contend in the Pac-12, Benjamin may get watched ASU’s game at Vanderbilt. Around the same number watched future Heisman Trophy recognition. the Sun Devils defeat No. 1 Kansas. The Sun Devils haven’t made back- to-back NCAA Tournaments since the early 1980s. With Dort, that has a No. 9: Sean Miller chance to change. It’s an interesting time for Miller, one of the state’s high-profile coaches. No. 15: Andrew Barroway Arizona officials supported him after ESPN reported he was caught on federal wiretap discussing payment to former center Deandre Ayton. The Coyotes’ sole owner is engaged in talks to sell all or a portion of the (Both Miller and Ayton vehemently denied this.) But the FBI investigation team in 2019, a process that has been underway for the past year. Per still hovers over the program, putting all parties in a difficult situation. It’s multiple sources, the new ownership group would keep the team in hard to predict what’s to come, if anything. Meanwhile, Miller continues to Arizona for the immediate future, but the Coyotes’ long-term future could recruit at a high level. While this season’s team may struggle to make the hinge on the incoming group’s ability to get an arena built in a more NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats have the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class favorable location. Under Barroway’s leadership, the Coyotes have run in place for next year. lean in many areas, forcing them to explore alternative methods to compete in a market loaded with richer teams. Too little is known about No. 8: Robbie Ray the potential buyers to know whether the transfer would mean greater resources for the hockey operations department. The Coyotes need It turns out, the Diamondbacks rotation didn’t really need the 2017 greater resources to compete for anything more than a playoff berth. version of Ray last year. Patrick Corbin and Clay Buchholz picked up his slack as the 27-year-old started slowly and then missed two months with No. 14: James Jones injury. Ray did recover to post a 2.65 ERA in his final 11 starts, and the Booker’s development as a playmaker has been particularly critical for a Diamondbacks will need that guy in 2019. Zack Greinke is another year team that enters the new year without a proven traditional point guard. older, Corbin and Buchholz are gone in free agency, and replacing them The Western Conference is stacked with talent, but Booker is putting up are a trade acquisition (Luke Weaver) who took his lumps last year and a numbers worthy of earning his first All-Star appearance. guy who spent the past four years in Korea.

No 7: Archie Bradley The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 The face of the Diamondbacks franchise is gone. Paul Goldschmidt only reluctantly embraced the spotlight, but he was the player most casual fans knew. Taking his place in the team’s marketing might be a player who has never shied from attention. The 26-year-old Bradley is coming off a down year, at least by the standard he set in 2017, but could very well open the 2019 season as the team’s closer. He oozes personality and the beard is a trademark already. Get ready to see a lot of him.

No. 6: Steve Keim

Keim will clearly be on the hot seat in 2019. He’s made some significant mistakes in free agency and the draft the last few years – although his 2018 draft looks strong – and his DUI and subsequent suspension for five weeks didn’t help his job security. If the Cardinals’ performance and record next season don’t improve, Keim could be the next one out the door.

No. 5: Robert Sarver

The Suns owner has not exactly done anything to quell his reputation as a volatile and difficult employer. He shockingly fired general manager Ryan McDonough less than two weeks before the season began. He reportedly threatened relocation to city council members while seeking public funding for Talking Stick Arena renovations. And his only public comments since then came from a wooden, prepared statement posted on the team’s official social media accounts. The Suns’ improved recent play has shielded Sarver from even more scrutiny. But public hearings on the renovation plans begin just after the New Year.

No. 4: John Chayka

The Coyotes 29-year-old president of hockey operations remains under intense scrutiny – some fair, some biased by old-school perspectives – to turn the Coyotes into a playoff team with sustained success. Chayka has completed several critical trades that have improved the team and one that has not worked out in the short term (Max Domi to Montreal for Alex Galchenyuk). If the Coyotes miss the postseason in 2019, the seven straight seasons without a playoff berth would be a franchise record. Chayka has been the general manager only since the 2016-17 season, and he began wholesale changes to the franchise for 2017-18 after only a year of evaluation. That’s far too short a period to render judgment, but that won’t stop his critics from blaming him for the team’s shortcomings.

No. 3: Deandre Ayton

Being selected first overall in the NBA draft automatically comes with a spotlight, and Ayton has largely lived up to the hype in his rookie season. The Suns’ starting center is producing nearly 17 points and 11 rebounds per game while shooting a wildly efficient 60 percent from the field, rookie numbers that put him in the company of standouts such as Shaquille O’Neal, Tim Duncan and Blake Griffin in their first seasons. Ayton’s defensive lapses have been heavily scrutinized, but he’s shown more activity and shot-blocking in recent games. He also appears willing to learn and put effort into that end of the floor. NBA followers have gone crazy for Luka Doncic, and for good reason. But if Ayton keeps developing — and his team keeps improving — he can make a case for Rookie of the Year.

No. 2: Josh Rosen

Rosen had a rough rookie season for the Cardinals but he’ll be the face of the franchise as soon as Larry Fitzgerald retires. He’s not only playing arguably the most important and glamourous position in pro sports but his personality, world view and willingness to go beyond the clichés that often dominate locker rooms, which should make him one of the Arizona’s more interesting athletes the next few years.

No. 1: Devin Booker

In case the importance of the Suns standout was not already obvious, the first half of this season has made that crystal clear. After battling hand, hamstring, finger and toe injuries during the preseason and first 30 games, Booker has been on a tear since his return to full health. As of Saturday, he was one of three NBA players averaging at least 25 points and seven assists per game, joining LeBron James and James Harden. 1123809 over a snowbank — every kid on the ice chasing the drooling thief with sticks and boots and shovels.

But there was no dog in the shadow of the Golden Dome. Just a Naturally, Patrice Bergeron steps up for Bruins in classic fashion stickless, helpless Saad, and a four-man Chicago PK unit rendered all but helpless. The Bruins were able to mount heavy pressure on Blackhawks goalie . Pastrnak, who only seconds earlier By Kevin Paul Dupont chopped up the puck that Kampf snatched, fired in a short-range shot from the left side.

Guess who was in perfect position in front of the net for the loose puck? SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The NHL positions its Winter Classic as a Do we need ask? Yep, Bergeron. His easy backhand knock tied it, 2-2. nostalgia piece, a throwback to the game’s roots, when kids with frozen toes and dreams brighter and wider than the Milky Way played all day on That was the velvetine dagger. knocked home the lakes and ponds and only quit when somebody scored a goal worth tiebreaker/game-winner in the third. But that entire sequence — 28 talking about on the cold, windy walk home. seconds from the time Kampf took possession until Bergeron disrupted and scored — was the foundational piece de resistance. We give you Patrice Bergeron, Jan. 1, 2019, late in the second period Tuesday at Notre Dame Stadium. “It bounced a few times,” Bergeron said. “It wasn’t necessarily pretty, but we’ll take it.” We give you classic Bergeron, wrapped perfectly around the Winter Classic, and all its pond hockey nostalgia, in front of a sellout crowd of Quintessential outdoor hockey, and quintessential Bergeron, his 76,126. recollection of the moment as understated as his game.

“I see, obviously on that play, that Pasta’s [David Pastrnak] starting to Rask, sitting at Bergeron’s side during the postgame news conference, cough up the puck,” said Bergeron, summarizing what turned into the rightly muttered, “Selke . . . Selke,” when Bergeron finished talking about goal that ultimately served as the foundation to the Bruins’ 4-2 win over the play. Bergeron has won the Selke Trophy four times as the NHL’s the Blackhawks on the campus of Notre Dame. “So I am trying to get best defensive forward. back right away and just trying to catch the guy and make a defensive play.” The play was sheer artwork. Painted on canvas, it could hang as a masterpiece at the Hockey Hall of Fame. All whipped up in less than 30 The puck that eluded Pastrnak up near Chicago’s defensive blue line, seconds, albeit with a lifetime of training, trying, and above all, never with the Bruins attacking on a power play, turned into a David Kampf quitting. Once over that snowbank, the Labrador never gives up the puck. breakaway. The Blackhawks in possession of a 2-1 lead, a shorthanded strike by Kampf, racing a couple strides ahead of Bergeron, would boost “The whole lead-up to it,” said Cassidy, folding the moment into a the Chicago advantage to two goals with less than 90 seconds to go in memorable visit. “Seeing the building to fill [with fans] and looking like it’s the second period. not going to go our way, and all of a sudden Bergy back-checks, scores a goal at the other end. I think that’s the part I’ll remember about the actual The most recent sports headlines delivered to your inbox every morning. game.”

“Could be a game-changer, right?” said Bruins coach . Worth remembering. Understated perfection on a perfect Winter Classic afternoon. Actually, it could have been the Blackhawks’ closing blow. The Bruins are 0-13-0 this season when trailing by two goals or more in the third period. Kampf was racing right down Broadway with only goalie Tuukka Rask to beat, with visions of the Stadium scoreboard about to read “3-1”. Boston Globe LOADED: 01.02.2019

“I saw Bergy coming back very hard,” Rask said. “And I’m just trying to get my gap right, you know, the guy’s coming in on what he thinks is a clear breakaway so I’m trying not to give him too much net to shoot at.”

Bergeron, meanwhile, was laser focused on the other gap, the stride or two Kampf had on him. That had to be addressed right away. Legs churning, he caught up with him low in the slot as the Blackhawks center glided in on shooting mode.

“Once he went on his backhand,” noted Bergeron, recalling his read in those seconds, “I knew he was going to go back on his forehand, so I was waiting for him to do that and just lifted up his stick.”

The shot never came. Bergeron, as if playing on his favorite childhood rink in , raced up and smacked his stick hard on the shaft of Kampf’s stick. Shot negated. Goal denied.

It was all hustle, calculation, and determination, Bergeron summoning all that on a storied field where the Irish football players believe they hold a patent on such gutsy stuff. Those football boys might want to start training camp this summer with a look of the video clip that shows how Bergeron stole their script and rewrote it on the fly.

“A big uplifting play for us,” said Cassidy, noting he was well aware, without Bergeron’s play, that doom was at his bench’s doorstep. “And it’s again one of those things that it’s a teaching moment for our younger guys how not to quit on plays. That’s the leadership we rely on him for — and sure enough it gets rewarded at the other end.”

That was part No. 2 of the same play. Off the breakup, more pond hockey unfolded when Blackhawks killer Brandon Saad lost his stick. That sweet 3-1 lead now was a raging dumpster fire for the Blackhawks.

In real pond hockey, this is that whacky moment when the friendly neighborhood Labrador Retriever, legs splayed every which way as he scrambles across the ice, clenches the puck in his mouth and hightails 1123810 Boston Bruins After preventing a goal that would have made it 3-1, Bergeron made it 2- 2 on the power play when he noticed Chicago’s Brandon Saad had lost his stick. He cruised into the slot, and when defenseman Brent Seabrook Bruins win the Winter Classic over Chicago blocked a Pastrnak try from the circle, Bergeron shoveled the rebound past Ward on the backhand at 18:48.

After that half-minute of Bergeron’s elite sense and skill, Kuraly scored By Matt Porter one for the trench men.

Muscling his way toward the front of the net, the 6-foot-2-inch, 213-pound fourth-liner playing with a busted nose (full face shield intact) pounced on SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Their best players and netminder rose to the a rebound and slipped it past Ward (32 saves on 35 shots). occasion, a grinder chipped in the winner, and the Bruins left historic Notre Dame Stadium on Tuesday with a buzz that could last a while. Helping out: , his partner in grime, who absorbed a slapper after creating a turnover by snowplowing Blackhawks Sean Kuraly’s goal at 10:20 of the third period helped the Bruins to a 4-2 defenseman along the boards. A breakdown in win over the Blackhawks in the 2019 Winter Classic, and sent the fourth- coverage, Grzelcyk’s step-up shot, and Kuraly dunked the rebound to get liner throwing his arms high and leaping into the glass. His teammates his second winner in two games (after beating Buffalo in OT on felt the same. Saturday). After the final horn sounded, Brad Marchand (empty-netter with 33 “We’ll leave the pretty ones to the guys who score the pretty ones,” said seconds left) dropped to the ice and performed snow angels. After David Kuraly, who pumped his arms in the air and slammed his fists against the Pastrnak scored one of Boston’s two tying goals, he flapped his arms like glass as he leapt on it. a bird. Patrice Bergeron, always understated, even showed a little emotion when he made it 2-2. He said the celebration was purely a reaction, nothing planned for the stage of the Winter Classic, just the passion of the moment taking over. “I know it’s a regular-season game, but the meaning’s different when you’re playing in front of 76,000 people on national TV,” Bergeron said. “Not the best at hiding my emotions after something like that,” he said. “We know what’s at stake in those games. You want to make the most of “No reason to.” it.”

The 2 points the Bruins (22-14-4) earned helped them keep pace with the rest of the Eastern Conference contenders (48 points, 6 points behind Boston Globe LOADED: 01.02.2019 Toronto for second place in the East). Much more was tucked into this box score.

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A sold-out crowd (76,126), the second-largest to watch an NHL game outdoors, saw all the pageantry of the NHL’s midseason nostalgia-fueled showcase. It was mostly Chicago fans, too, but Boston backers sounded “Tuuk” midway through, and near the end.

Tuukka Rask, who stopped 36 of 38 shots, loomed large in the second period when the Blackhawks pushed. He stopped Chicago sniper twice on a breakaway, the score tied. He also denied him again with 40 seconds left and Chicago charging, 6-on-5.

“It’s a special stage,” said Rask, who helped the Bruins improve to 2-1 in Winter Classics (2010 win over Philadelphia at Fenway, 2016 loss to Montreal at Gillette).

The Blackhawks (15-21-6) scored the opening goal 8:30 in, when Brendan Perlini snapped one past Rask off a turnover behind the net. But the Bruins took advantage of the league’s worst penalty kill (74.2 percent success coming in) to tie it.

Bergeron snatched the puck from Marcus Kruger and fed Pastrnak all alone in front. The patient sniper waited as Cam Ward opened his pads, then slipped it low. Pastrnak joyfully pumped his arms in full flight.

“I was trying to do the LeBron James,” Pastrnak said.

After Chicago’s Dominik Kahun tipped the puck past Rask for a 2-1 lead at 11:24 of the second, Bergeron produced the game’s key sequence.

Beginning at 18:20 in the second period, a national TV audience saw 28 seconds of Perfect Patrice.

After Joakim Nordstrom drew a roughing call on Chicago defenseman Erik Gustafsson, forward David Kampf pressured Pastrnak into a turnover inside the blue line, racing the other way for a potential shorty. Bergeron, who broke as soon as he saw his winger about to cough it up, churned his 33-year-old legs to catch Kampf. He correctly guessed Kampf, after deking Rask backhand, would return to his forehand. When Kampf did, Bergeron lifted the stick and knocked the puck loose.

“He never quits. That’s why he’s Patrice Bergeron,” coach Bruce Cassidy said of Bergeron, the four-time Selke Trophy winner. “I expect him to make game-changing plays. That’s just who he is.”

After the game, Bergeron recalled every decision he made over that 6- second span. Rask, sitting next to him, listened to his narration, then leaned in and repeated, “Selke . . . Selke.” 1123811 Boston Bruins “He didn’t want anyone to feel sorry for him,” Kuraly said. “He’s got a bruised tailbone, that’s for sure.”

Perfectly weathered Bruins make a Classic statement on and off the ice Neither team touched the outdoor ice before the pregame warm-up because of Monday’s steady rain, but they had some Irish luck on game By Matt Porter day.

Globe Staff It was an overcast sky, no sun to blind them. It was 35 degrees at puck drop, no biting cold to chill them. No significant wind or precipitation. The ice was smooth for skating, and though players said a bit bouncier than usual, no one registered a complaint, and play did not stop so officials SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The Winter Classic was one for the team could patch any rough spots. scrapbook. “It looked perfect,” Cassidy said. After a memorable 4-2 win over their foes, the Blackhawks, the Bruins posed for one of the most unique NHL team photos ever Next men up captured. Speaking after the second period, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman Outside 88-year-old Notre Dame Stadium, they wore clothes that looked announced the next slate of big-time events. even older. Next season’s All-Star Game will be in St. Louis. The Winter Classic will They had just changed out of their 1930s-inspired alternate uniforms with be in Dallas (the Stars will host an opponent to be determined at Cotton the big block-letter “B,” and stepped into garb from 1920s England: Bowl Stadium). At Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., the topcoats and three-piece suits, flat caps and fedoras, and lots of wool Avalanche will host a Stadium Series game (opponent also TBA). The and tweed. other outdoor game for 2020 will be in Regina, Saskatchewan (Flames- Jets in the Oct. 26 Heritage Classic). Patrice Bergeron, eye for detail sharp and timing ever perfect, wore a pocket watch and added a newsboy hat, which in his adopted hometown Bettman said TD Garden would be in the mix for league events once of Boston is called a scally cap. Zdeno Chara, looking like the top renovations are complete. henchman of Bill the Butcher, wore a fedora and long brown coat. Seeing 50-40 The most recent sports headlines delivered to your inbox every morning. With his 50th point in his 40th game, David Pastrnak (24-26) became It was a coordinated effort, born on Halloween when a group of young Boston’s first 50-in-40 guy since Marc Savard (2006-07) . . . Defenseman Bruins players dressed up like gangsters from the BBC drama series Kevan Miller gave the Bruins 1:12 of 5-on-3 time early in the third, “Peaky Blinders,” about post-World War I British mobsters. The veterans drawing consecutive minors (high stick, trip). The Bruins didn’t score, but got wind of it by the end of the night, when many fuzzy decisions are finished 2-for-5 on the man-advantage. Chicago was 0-for-4 . . . The only made, and decided that this would be a heck of a thing to do for the NHL outdoor game to out-draw this one was the 2014 Toronto-Detroit Winter Classic. Winter Classic, before 105,491 at Michigan Stadium . . . Rookie forward Ryan Donato and defenseman Steven Kampfer were scratched. Veteran They followed through on it, though. Defenseman Torey Krug enlisted the forward David Backes was serving the second of a three-game services of a tailor, who helped outfit most of the team. Every player suspension . . . Rask played in his 469th game, the most by a Bruins arrived at work Tuesday looking like proper gangsters. goaltender. He passed Ralph“Tiny” Thompson (468). Rask entered the Bruce Cassidy, who wore a corduroy varsity jacket along with the rest of afternoon with the top career save percentage (.922) in franchise history . his coaches, had no pregame plans to wear a fedora, as did former . . Marchand on Pastrnak’s goal celebration: “I was a little thrown off. I’ve coach Claude Julien in the 2010 Fenway Winter Classic. Cassidy never seen him do that before. . . . You get a goal like that in a big game preferred to leave the sartorial snazziness to his players. like this, you can do whatever you want.” Said Marchand after learning his linemate was copying LeBronJames: “Well, Pasta and LeBron are But by puck drop, Cassidy had borrowed ’s brown fedora, very similar.” and it was perched atop his head.

“I took a chance,” he said. “I’m not usually a fashionista, so I don’t know how it looked, but what the hell.” Boston Globe LOADED: 01.02.2019

Krug hoped the look would catch on.

“Look good, feel good, play good,” he said, smiling under his sharp gray scally. “You have a little bit of swagger, I think it bleeds into your game.”

Also seen and heard in the land of the Fighting Irish:

Bruins legends , . and were introduced before the national anthem. On the Chicago side: , Tony Esposito, (in a wheelchair), and Jill Mikita, the wife of the late Stan Mikita. Tim Brown, the 1987 Heisman Trophy winner for the Fighting Irish, dropped the first puck.

The band Weezer played a concert after the first period, and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, a 22-piece ensemble with brass, reeds, percussion, and seven stringed instruments, played the Notre Dame fight song (“Victory March”) as the teams walked together out of the tunnel. Chicago singer belted a stirring rendition of the anthem, after which four A-10 Thunderbolt II planes flew over the stadium.

“When the crowd started cheering at the anthem,” Kuraly said, “I think we all got chills. It was pretty cool to look around and take in a little bit of it, because who knows how many, if any of us, will play in any of these games again.”

Notre Dame’s mascot, waving a flag and skating between the teams lined up on the blue line for the anthem, caused a few laughs when he took a hard spill. After he leapt to his feet, several players tapped him with their sticks. 1123812 Boston Bruins

Bruins Notebook: Patrice Bergeron comes up big again

By MARISA INGEMI | [email protected] | Boston Herald

PUBLISHED: January 1, 2019 at 8:46 pm | UPDATED: January 1, 2019 at 9:00 PM

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — “Selke, Selke” is a sentiment likely shared by many about Patrice Bergeron.

His goalie has more than a couple of reasons to think so, at least.

Bergeron’s backcheck Tuesday on David Kampf prevented the Blackhawks forward from breaking free and getting a clean look on net while shorthanded and Chicago leading by a goal late in the second period.

As if that wasn’t enough, he turned the tide completely, tying the game on the power play moments later, setting up Sean Kuraly‘s late heroics for a 4-2 win in the annual Winter Classic.

“I think those happen to us too often on the power play, some sort of weird bounce that end up being a 2-on-1 or a breakaway,” B’s goalie Tuukka Rask said. “I saw Bergy coming back very hard, and I just try to get my gap right. The guy was coming in on what he thinks is a clear breakaway. … Bergy made a great play there right as he was shooting.”

It wasn’t the first time this season, though not on such a scale, that Bergeron had made such a play to change a game.

“He did that in Carolina this year, same thing,” Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy said of the four-time Selke Trophy winner as the league’s top defensive forward. “Same thing. He backchecked a shorty while we were on the power play, knocked the puck off a stick, put (Brad Marchand) on a breakaway the other way and scored.”

It was a point in the game when the Bruins needed a spark to get back in it. They’d been hapless on offense for much of the middle frame, alternating lines throughout.

“On that play I see that (David Pastrnak) is starting to cough up the puck so I’m trying to get back right away and catch the guy and make a defensive play,” Bergeron said. “I knew when he went on his backhand he was going to get back to his forehand so I was waiting for him to do that and then just lift up his stick. After that I saw him go for a change, and I think someone broke his stick. . . . It bounced a few times, it wasn’t pretty, but we’ll take it. I thought it was a goal we needed going into the third period.”

It was a play that turned the game around for the Bruins.

“Maybe Tuukka makes the save anyway, maybe we go down and score anyways,” Cassidy said. “But it’s a big uplifting play for us. It’s a teaching moment for our younger guys not to quit on plays.”

For the second time in two games, Kuraly proved to be the offense the Bruins needed.

Kuraly has rotated around since starting the year as the third-line center. With time on the top line in Buffalo and then back to the fourth line, he was back in a familiar role Tuesday.

He did his job and more.

“Those are the type of goals we have to score, and we’ve been scoring more of,” Kuraly said. “I’ll leave the pretty ones to the guys who score the pretty ones and I’ll take these.”

Boston Herald LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123813 Boston Bruins career, that you can be happy you were a part of and cherish the moment.”

It was a clearly a pro-Blackhawk crowd, but a healthy contingent of Tuukka Rask shines on Winter Classic stage Bruins fans made their way to South Bend for the game. And when Kuraly scored, they started to take over the stadium. By the end of the game, you could hear the distinctive “Tooook!” chants that often ring the By STEVE CONROY | [email protected] | Boston Herald Garden. It is a little different when you’ve got 35-40,000 people doing it, as opposed to 17,000 or so. PUBLISHED: January 1, 2019 at 6:42 pm | UPDATED: January 1, 2019 at 7:55 PM Rask himself said he never heard it. Maybe it was the open air, or perhaps just the goalie’s focus. But his teammates surely heard it.

“It was awesome,” Kevan Miller said with a grin. “It was well deserved, SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The words were barely out of Bruins’ coach Bruce too. Tooks played awesome for us. Huge game.” Cassidy’s mouth on Monday, announcing that Tuukka Rask was going to be the his starter for the Winter Classic, before the Tuukka Twitter haters were firing up the hate mail. Boston Herald LOADED: 01.02.2019 The goalie has become the lightning rod for the Bruins. No other player produces the kind of extreme opinions that Rask does. But you had to be the most ardent of Rask detractors to believe he was anything but excellent in the Bruins’ 4-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks at Notre Dame Stadium on New Year’s Day. He stopped 36-of-38 shots, got help from a couple of posts (goalies will tell you that those are just missed shots) and nailed down in his second win in a row and to get the B’s back into a playoff spot.

A frequent theme of Rask’s detractors is that he doesn’t elevate his game on the big stage, but he delivered a clutch performance in front of 79,126 fans and a national TV audience in one of the most iconic venues of American sport. The stage doesn’t get much bigger than that, especially with the added pressure of the B’s precarious playoff position.

Yes, it was only two points in the overall scheme of things, but Tuesday’s game was much bigger than that.

“There’s obviously a lot of talk about Tuukka just in general with certain things, but a pretty big event today and he brought his best game of the season and we needed it, especially towards the end. They had some really good looks,” said Jake DeBrusk. “Even on the goals I don’t think he had too much of a chance on them, I’m no goalie expert though. But I felt that he was the biggest reason why we won today. He kept us in he game and I’m really happy for him. It was a pretty cool mask he was wearing as well.”

Rask’s best moments came when he snuffed out Patrick Kane’s breakaway (and his follow-up in the waning seconds of the first period), and then stoning Kane on an open shot from the slot with 39.2 seconds left in regulation and the B’s hanging on to a one-goal lead.

“That’s the Tooks that we want to see on a nightly basis and he does it on a big stage. His career stats speak for themselves,” said Torey Krug. “And in order for us to win a lot of hockey games and bigger hockey games going into playoffs, we’re going to need a guy like him to step up and play good. Hopefully it’s the start of something.”

It is easy to become cynical about the NHL’s money grab that is the Winter Classic. But when it all comes together like it did on this day, that jaundiced eye clears up pretty quickly. The weather conditions were perfect – the sky was actually gray-blue – and the two Original Six teams staged a very entertaining contest. If not for goalies Rask and Cam Ward, it could have easily been a 6-5 game.

But truth be told, the B’s owned this day, not only with the final outcome but also with their three-piece suits topped off by scally caps and fedoras they wore, costumes inspired by the drama Peaky Blinders set in 1920s Manchester, England. Even Cassidy got into the act, borrowing Brandon Carlo’s fedora to wear behind he bench.

“Look good, feel good, play good,” Krug with a smile. “You have a little bit of swagger and it bleeds into your game.”

And Rask allowed his teammates to celebrate the win, keeping them in the game while they chased it until Sean Kuraly put them ahead for good with his third period game-winner. As is his way, he didn’t want to make too much of one game, but he had to admit, it was pretty cool.

“It’s a special stage, but I think for me as a goalie, you just always try to approach a game like it’s any other game,” said Rask. “I don’t think in the standings it’s anything special but it was my third (outdoor) game that I got to be a part of, second one I played. Nice to get the win. But, you know, I think these are experiences, when you’re done with your hockey 1123814 Boston Bruins Marchand potted the empty-netter with 32 seconds left to seal the win.

Rask finished with 35 saves, including stopping a key Brandon Saad break-in chance while the Bruins were still trailing early in the second. Kuraly late goal powers Bruins to Winter Classic win “Tuukka’s now strung a couple together, a couple of solid wins,” said Cassidy. “We were good in front of him in spots, other times we weren’t. By MARISA INGEMI | [email protected] | Boston Herald In the second period it got away from us and he made some big saves.”

PUBLISHED: January 1, 2019 at 4:04 pm | UPDATED: January 1, 2019 The Bruins improve to 2-1 in Winter Classics, not holding a lead since at 9:01 PM Marco Sturm’s overtime game-winner in 2010 at Fenway Park until Kuraly’s tally.

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The Bruins star power shined whenever it had to. Patrice Bergeron, from saving goals to scoring them, to David Pastrnak Boston Herald LOADED: 01.02.2019 shooting six times and scoring the team’s first goal.

But it was another Bruins depth scorer that gave them their second Winter Classic victory, 4-2.

Sean Kuraly, fresh off scoring the game-winner in overtime on Buffalo on Saturday to snap the Bruins two-game losing streak, was in the right position again on Tuesday in front of a much larger audience.

His backhand shot hit the back of the net to give the Bruins a 3-2 lead, their first lead of the game, more than halfway through the third period, “raising the roof” to the open sky of Notre Dame Stadium.

“Not the best at hiding my emotions after something like that,” said Kuraly. “There’s no reason to I don’t think. You look up at the crowd and it just seems to keep going..”

It didn’t open with a bang for the Bruins, but instead, a defensive breakdown on unfamiliar ice burnt them.

Torey Krug lost a battle in the corner and David Krejci turned the puck over, leading to Brendan Perlini wide-open in the center of the slot. He had an uncontested look and buried it to put Chicago up 1-0 with 11:30 left in the frame, right after a power play expired.

Right before the Blackhawks rang the post with a chance to double their lead, Brad Marchand just missed Pastrnak on a zone entry that would have sent the latter in alone with a tick under 10 minutes left in the period.

It wasn’t Pastrnak’s last chance, however. On the power play from Artem Anisimov trip of Joakim Nordstrom, Pastrnak had space in front of Cam Ward and buried his chance with 7:22 left to knot the game 1-1, followed by a goal celebration he said was inspired by LeBron James.

“I don’t know where that came from,” said head coach Bruce Cassidy. “LeBron? I need to pay more attention to .”

Dominik Kahun deflected an Erik Gustafsson shot past Tuukka Rask with 8:36 to go in the second after the Bruins had already killed of a Chicago power play in the period. The Blackhawks peppered Rask and the Bruins defense, while the B’s struggled to get shots on net until the second half of the period.

Their best two chances of the first half of the frame were an open look for Pastrnak where he went to his backhand instead of taking the open shot over a sprawling Ward, and Jake DeBrusk broke in alone and had his shot denied.

On the power play, Pastrnak had the puck hop over his stick at the blueline, giving David Kampf a breakaway. Bergeron swooped in from behind and backchecked him off the puck, preventing Kampf from getting off a shot.

The Bruins went back down to their offensive end of the ice, and after Krug passed on an open-net look, Pastrnak’s pass to the bottom of the slot deflected off a Blackhawk skate and right to Bergeron, who buried it with 1:12 left in the second to tie the game 2-2.

The Bruins opened the third period with a 5-on-3 with Patrick Kane and Anisimov both going to the box, but they couldn’t take advantage of the open ice.

Matt Grzelcyk, sent twice to the penalty box earlier in the game, wound up at the point with 9:40 left in the third. His shot hit off Chris Wagner to the right of Ward, and the puck bounced right to Kuraly in front who whacked it in off his backhand to give the Bruins the 3-2 lead.

“I try to play as hard as I can every game,” said Kuraly. “For that one to fall my way, I’ll take it. I’ll keep working and keep trying.” 1123815 Boston Bruins

Bruins pregame notes: Winter Classic the center stage for Marchand

By MARISA INGEMI | [email protected] | Boston Herald

PUBLISHED: January 1, 2019 at 11:32 am | UPDATED: January 1, 2019 at 1:22 PM

SOUTH BEND — Finally, Brad Marchand gets to play on the outdoor stage.

The Bruins forward was suspended the last time they played in the Winter Classic at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough against the Canadiens. That means despite being one of the most senior members of the team, this is an experience to him akin to that of the younger players.

“It hasn’t happened yet, so don’t jinx it,” he quipped. “It’s a very unique experience to be a part of something like this… It’s a fun time, it’s a fun thing to be a part of.”

It’s not like the Bruins aren’t in need of his scoring, either. They suffered two tough losses to Carolina and New Jersey before Marchand missed a win against Buffalo. But for a team that’s struggled to score, he’s an important piece, regardless of the setting.

That, and the need to keep accumulating points, hasn’t been lost on anyone.

“It would be the cherry on top to win,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s two points. It’s not like we’re winning the Cup or anything. We want to have fun and enjoy it. Hope we win.”

Even with the importance of the game itself noted, that’s not to say there isn’t something special about the arena Marchand and the Bruins are on today. There have only been 10 Winter Classics, and while the Bruins have played in two of them, Marchand was on the outside in his only opportunity.

He said he doesn’t have any special goal celebration planned or anything like that. But he’s not going to waste the moment, one which very nearly became the second Winter Classic he missed out on.

“These are the things, games like this, when you’re coming into the league or growing up that you think are things that will happen,” said Marchand. “So it’s very cool to be a part of something like this. It’s so different than what you’re used to, even the rink and having the fans away from the glass, it’s all different.”

Game Notes

As expected, Marchand is back in the lineup and will take his position on the top line with Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak. Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson will play the wing on David Krejci‘s line.

Defenseman Charlie McAvoy will miss his third straight game with a lower-body injury. avid Backes will miss the game, his second in a three-game suspension.

Tuukka Rask (9-8-2) gets the start in net for his second Winter Classic start with Jaroslav Halak serving as the backup.

The Blackhawks (15-20-6) have allowed the second-most goals in the NHL at 149. Their penalty kill of 74.1 percent is also the lowest in the league.

Goalie Corey Crawford is on injured reserve and Cam Ward (6-6-4, 3.90) gets the nod in net. Patrick Kane leads the team with 50 points, with next at 35.

Chicago made a trade for defenseman Jason Garrison and forward Drake Caggiula from Edmonton, but Caggiula had a visa issue and won’t play in the Winter Classic.

Boston Herald LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123816 Boston Bruins riding the momentum of the Winter Classic for a while knowing their big game cred might just serve them well in the postseason.

Certainly the B’s will be hoping to create some distance between them Bruins hope to ride the momentum from a feel-good Classic win and the Canadiens, Sabres, and Islanders in the Eastern Conference standings as it looks like there’s going to competition for the wild card spots. By Joe Haggerty Now it’s on the Black and Gold not to waste whatever good energy they January 02, 2019 12:04 AM built up with a Winter Classic win that was bigger than the two points. It remains to be seen just how much bigger it can be now that the sojourn

to Notre Dame is directly in the rear view mirror. SOUTH BEND, Indiana – The Bruins have seemingly been in flux all season with injuries, underperformance and a roster that will probably need an improvement or two before it’s all said and done this season. To Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 their credit they’ve scrapped and battled for points even in the darkest days when Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron were both out of the lineup, and managed to stay in a playoff position through all of it.

Now things have finally come together at the midpoint of the regular season, and maybe, just maybe, Boston’s come-from-behind 4-2 Winter Classic win over the Chicago Blackhawks at Notre Dame can be a springboard to bigger and better things.

Certainly there will be bigger regular season games in the second half against teams in their own division, but the Winter Classic is the kind of big game stage that should make the Bruins realize they’re a hockey team that’s capable of more.

“You want to win those games on the big stage. I know it was just a regular season game, but the meaning is different when you’re playing in front of 76,000 people and on national TV,” said Patrice Bergeron. “We know what’s at stake in those games. You want to make the most of it. It was a great feeling in the locker room and I thought the guys responded great to it.”

As it was, the Winter Classic wasn’t a perfect game by the Bruins against the Blackhawks even if they did look pretty perfect entering the stadium in “Peaky Blinders” attire prior to puck drop.

It was far from perfect when considering the second period.

The B’s weren’t good for nearly the entirety of the second period as Chicago outshot them by a 16-10 margin and titled the ice in their favor with a couple of misfires, Tuukka Rask and a post or two, saving the Bruins from a deeper hole.

But there was also plenty to like about the come-from-behind win where the Bruins pulled away in the third period with a pair of goals. The power play was productive and once again highly supported an even strength Bruins attack that really hasn’t been at its best this season. All three members of the Perfection Line scored a goal in the victory with Brad Marchand finally getting in on the act with an empty netter in the final minute of the game.

Tuukka Rask was strong with 36 saves and exhibited the kind of big game confidence and coolness between the pipes that hasn’t always been there on big stages like that of the Winter Classic. The Bruins got a game-winning goal from fourth line center Sean Kuraly after his energy line pounded the Blackhawks physically with a punishing shift in the attack zone. They’ll need more of that from their bottom-9 forwards if they’re going to do anything of note this season, and they certainly needed it against the middling Blackhawks on Tuesday to get the outdoor win.

But most of all it was about the Bruins battling through some adversity early in the game when it was uncertain things were going to go their way. The B’s stuck with the game plan, kept playing hard and eventually found their way to finishing up strong with a solid two points after a month of hype leading up to the NHL’s centerpiece midseason event.

“It’s only one game and at the end of the day every game is different,” said Brad Marchand. “But there was a lot of excitement going into this one. We’ve had two big wins in each of our last two games and the majority of us [on the roster] are healthy now. So hopefully we can just keep rolling.”

That’s probably the biggest point for the Bruins. Chara and Bergeron are back and have played a few games to knock off the rust, Jake DeBrusk is healthy and playing at a high level and Kevan Miller is back playing physical hockey in the defensive zone. The Bruins will finally get to see how good they can be with a full, healthy roster, and they may just enjoy 1123817 Boston Bruins

'Special stage' at Winter Classic shows Tuukka Rask can excel in big games

By Joe Haggerty

January 01, 2019 11:21 PM

SOUTH BEND, Indiana – Tuukka Rask often gets criticized for not showing up biggest in the big games for the Boston Bruins, so credit where it’s due when the goaltender steps up on a big stage. Rask did exactly that on Tuesday afternoon at the Winter Classic when he stopped 36 shots and stood tall against the Chicago Blackhawks in leading the B’s to a 4-2 win over the Hawks at Notre Dame Stadium.

It didn’t exactly erase the memory of just how shaky Rask was in last spring’s Game 7 against the , but it did rekindle hope that the Bruins netminder can find some mastery within his big game performances.

“It’s a special stage. For me as a goalie you just always try to approach a game like it’s every other game. That was my third [Winter Classic] that I got to be a part of, and the second one that I played in,” said Rask, who evened his career record in Winter Classic games after getting the loss at Gillette Stadium a couple of years ago. “It was nice to get the win too. I think these are the experiences that when you’re done with your hockey career that you can look back and be happy that you’re a part of and cherish those moments. I’ve been very fortunate to be part of three of these games.”

Rask was at his best in the second period when he stopped 15 shots while the ice was seemingly titled in favor of Chicago for nearly the entire period, but his biggest stop was at the end of the first period in a tied hockey game. In the closing seconds of the period, Patrick Kane broke free on the outdoor ice for a breakaway chance with Rask as the last line of defense.

Rask stepped up and shut down Kane on the scoring attempt, and kept the Blackhawks off the board in the kind of gut-punch score that could have changed the momentum in the game if it had somehow leaked into the B’s net. He was beaten in the second period on a tipped puck from high in the slot, but that was it for Rask as he went into shutdown mode for the rest of the game while Boston pulled away in the final 20 minutes.

It was the kind of performance that rewarded Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy for putting Boston’s longtime No. 1 into the big game, rather than going with Jaroslav Halak after he arguably had a better first half of the season for the Bruins.

“He played well. We couldn’t go wrong because it’s an area of strength for us, so we win either way,” said Cassidy. “Tuukka has now strung together a couple of solid wins. I thought we were good in front of him in spots and in the second period it got away from us and he made some big saves.

“At the end of the first against Kane [he made a big stop]. So I was happy for him. We want to get him into a rhythm where he’s playing well and giving us a good chance to win every night. That’s two in a row, so now he can build off that.”

With the win, Rask is now 10-8-2 with a 2.63 goals against average and .914 save percentage on the season and it once again seems like he’s on the upswing with his play after a brutal final start prior to the Christmas break. The Finnish netminder also appears to be on the upswing in big game performances as well after stepping up and playing one of his best games of the season on the NHL’s biggest regular season state in the Winter Classic.

Now Rask merely needs to carry that over into the last few months of the regular season and playoffs were a performance like Tuesday’s could make the Bruins a much more dangerous hockey club down the stretch.

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What did Tuukka Rask mean by his postgame comments?

By NBC Sports Boston Staff

January 01, 2019 10:24 PM

In the excitement following the Bruins' 4-2 victory over the Blackhawks in the NHL's annual Winter Classic, Tuukka Rask took a moment to reflect on the event, potentially hinting at his future plans.

"This might be my last outdoor game, you never know" said Rask when asked about the experience of playing in the Winter Classic.

"It's a great experience to get the result. The next one, when it happens, maybe I'll be sitting up in the press box drinking beer, who knows."

Part of Rask's comments were likely an appreciation for how rare the opportunity to play outside in venues like Notre Dame in the NHL. But could they hint at something more?

This season has been a struggle for Rask, no doubt about it. The pitchforks were out in force in Boston when Jaroslav Halak was thoroughly outplaying Rask, the incumbent goaltender from the last several years. He also took a personal leave of absence earlier in the season, and has played at a higher level since.

Might Rask be contemplating retirement? He's been a quality goalie for the Bruins since taking over at the start of the 2013 season, but has yet to help deliver a championship, and has felt the full wrath of unhappy Boston sports fans on more than one occasion.

The Bruins have played in three Winter Classics since its inception, and Rask was starting goaltender for two of them. It may be a while until Boston gets another chance, which could also be the source of Rask's thoughts that this may be his last one.

No matter what lay behind his postgame comments, Bruins fans will be content if he keeps up the high level of play he showed on Tuesday, notching 36 saves in their win over the Blackhawks.

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Big Game Kuraly strikes again at Winter Classic

By Joe Haggerty

January 01, 2019 6:08 PM

SOUTH BEND, Indiana – Just call fourth line center Sean Kuraly by his proper nickname, “Mr. Big Game” after he once again came through for the Bruins in a big moment for the team.

Kuraly has only scored 10 goals in his entire NHL career, but he’s also got three game-winning goals, a two-goal playoff game against Ottawa a couple of years ago and now a game-winner in the Winter Classic among his impressive resume of lamp-lighters. In fact, two of the game-winners have now come back-to-back after Kuraly scored the overtime winner in Buffalo last weekend to add to Tuesday night’s third period rebound score in Boston’s 4-2 win over the Blackhawks at the Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium.

“[Kuraly] is thriving in the big games right now,” said Brad Marchand. “He’s doing the little things right and that line is playing very well right now too. The way they work, and hound the puck, and play physical to create turnovers, they’re going to get their chances. They’re taking pucks to the net more. Those guys are also working their bags off in practice and after trying to get better, and it’s showing right now. So they deserve some credit.”

As with most of the fourth line energy guys, Kuraly was happy to give credit to his teammates on the ice for helping to make it all happen. Both Chris Wagner and Kevan Miller set the tone for the shift with some thumping physicality, and then it was Matt Grzelcyk that fired the point shot off Wagner right in front of the net. The puck bounced fortuitously right to Kuraly crashing toward the net and the big-bodied, hard-charging center simply fired it into the vacant area for his fourth goal of the season.

The goal midway through the third period gave the Bruins their first lead of the game at Notre Dame, and they didn't look back after that as Kuraly's line kept getting the call to help close out Boston's Classic win.

Like most of Kuraly’s goals, it’s about hustle and hard work getting to the net while making certain the hands are good and ready when the work ethic turns into opportunity.

“As you can tell, it feels pretty good. I’m not very good at hiding my emotions out there and there’s no reason to. You look up at the crowd and they just seem to keep going when you look up, and you look left and you look right,” said Kuraly, who has become known a bit for his enthusiastic, jumping celebrations when he does actually light the lamp. “I don’t know what it is. Sometimes they fall on your stick. I try to play as hard as I can every night for it to fall my way. Tonight I’ll take it and hopefully they just keep coming.

“When your linemates are playing downhill and fore-checking F1 and F2, and then I’m the third guy there that reaps the rewards. I don’t know if you feel it coming, but you’re just in the moment and playing, and it just kind of comes to you. I was happy it was there tonight.”

Clearly the big goals now are making up for just two goals in the first 37 games of the season for Kuraly, and maybe even making up a bit for the broken nose he suffered tangling with Ottawa’s Ben Harpur in a bit of a brutal fight last month. But it’s also enhancing the NHL resume for a bottom-6 center like Kuraly that could find himself employed in the NHL for a long, long time if he can mix in solid defensive work, good energy line play and a penchant for big goals in the big moments as he’s done for the Black and Gold pretty consistently over the last couple of seasons.

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Talking Points: Bruins guns, big and small, step up in Classic win

By Joe Haggerty

January 01, 2019 5:33 PM

Here are Joe Haggerty's talking points from the Bruins' 4-2 win over the Blackhawks in the Winter Classic.

GOLD STAR: Sean Kuraly got the honors with the game-winning goal against Buffalo, and he gets the very same with the game-winner in the second consecutive game as the Winter Classic hero as well. It was Kuraly that jumped toward the front of the net after a strong, physical shift from the fourth line, and was ready to hop on a puck after a Matt Grzelcyk point shot bounced off Chris Wagner and went right to him in front of the net. Kuraly, of course, had the big celebration after the game- winning play and truly was one of Boston’s best players during the entire game. Kuraly finished with five shots on net, eight shot attempts, a couple of hits and was 5-for-10 on face-offs while getting a ton of shifts at the end of the game along with Patrice Bergeron’s line.

BLACK EYE: Patrick Kane didn’t necessarily have a bad game as he managed to get five shots on net, and had a breakaway at the end of the first period that really could have broken the game a different way for the Blackhawks. But Tuukka Rask was able to stop Kane on the breakaway, he didn’t bust through with any actually points on his seven shot attempts and he ended up on ice for one of the Boston Bruins goals in the loss for Chicago. In order to win games likes the Winter Classic, a team’s best players have to rise to the occasion and actually produce. Kane wasn’t able to do that despite some chances to contribute for the Blackhawks.

TURNING POINT: For the Bruins it was pretty clearly surviving the second period despite being outshot 16-10 and actually going into the final intermission with a tied score thanks to a power play goal at the end of the second period. It was a great individual play by Patrice Bergeron as he went on a back-check to get the puck back, and then went straight to his normal slot area for the bumper position. There he was in the right place at the right time when a David Pastrnak pass ricocheted to him in front and he was able to throw a backhanded shot at the net for the game-tying goal. It was exactly what was needed for the Bruins to stave off Chicago’s momentum and set up for a third period where the Black and Gold won the game.

HONORABLE MENTION: The first half of the game was controlled more by the Blackhawks than the Bruins, but it was David Pastrnak that kept the B’s right in the middle of things with some big plays. Pastrnak scored Boston’s first goal to make certain they went into the dressing room tied for the first intermission, and it was a great play with No. 88 patiently waiting down low for Patrice Bergeron to get the puck to him. Then it was Pastrnak with the deflected pass in the second period that bounced right to Bergeron in the slot for the power play goal that tied the game up at 2- 2 apiece. In all Pastrnak finished with a goal and two points in 19:44 of ice time along with six shots on net and a whopping 11 shot attempts in a very active game. Clearly Pastrnak liked being in the out of doors playing the Winter Classic for the first time.

BY THE NUMBERS: 469 – The number of games played for Tuukka Rask in a Bruins uniform after Tuesday’s Winter Classic, the top number of games played for the B’s in franchise history. The fact it was a win was clearly cherry on top of the sundae.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "It was my first one and everybody was doing it, so I said 'I've got to do it.' I don't even know what it was for because the sun wasn't even there." –David Pastrnak, on opting for the eye black on a gray, cloudy day for the Winter Classic at Notre Dame.

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Here's what happened in the Bruins' Winter Classic 4-2 win over the Blackhawks

By NBC Sports Boston Staff January 01, 2019 12:59 PM

FROM JOE HAGGERTY

The legend of David Pastrnak grows as he’s enjoying another big game on the Winter Classic outdoor ice. It was Pastrnak that scored Boston’s first goal when he camped down low and flipped back a shot after Patrice Bergeron managed to work the puck down to him on the power play. Pastrnak also had another chance a couple of minutes later, but this time Cam Ward managed to thwart him on the backhanded chance. Pastrnak led all Bruins with six shots on net and 10 shot attempts through two periods, and he also picked up an assist on Patrice Bergeron’s power play strike in the second period that tied up the game.

A good first period for Tuukka Rask, who stopped 11-of-12 shots including a couple of Grade-A chances led by the Patrick Kane breakaway in the closing seconds of the first period. Perhaps an ever better second period where Chicago took it to the Bruins, and Rask made 15 saves while only being beaten on a tip from the high slot that managed to sneak through his pads. Rask hasn’t made it a secret that he doesn’t enjoy playing in these outdoor games, but it seems like he’s tracking the puck pretty well in this one. He was also the beneficiary of Connor Murphy ringing one off the pipe and Alex DeBrincat missing an open net by steering the puck just a little to the outside of the net. But Rask made the saves he needed to make, and that’s all the Bruins are asking of him.

Once again the Bruins power play has come to the rescue with a goal in the closing moments of the second period. It has been a savior on more than one occasion for the B’s this season and has given them lifts when their five-on-five play has let them down, and that’s exactly what happened in a middle 20 minutes where the B’s really didn’t play very good hockey. Instead it was Patrice Bergeron firing home a backhanded shot through traffic from the slot after a David Pastrnak pass deflected off a body in front and went right to the blade of his stick in the perfect spot. Once again Bergeron in the right place at the right time. It’s really the story of his life, isn’t it?

No shots on net through 12:24 and a minus-1 rating for Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson, so apparently the experiment of putting him on the right wing isn’t really amounting to much. It’s not hard to see why it might not work given that he’s not exactly muscle-bound when it comes to puck battles and board-work, and playing outside the center position could just exacerbate some of his tendencies to fade during games with passive play. JFK was not very noticeable at all in the first 40 minutes.

Sean Kuraly continues to score big goals for the Bruins. This time it was the go-ahead and ultimate game-winning goal for the Bruins in the third period of the Winter Classic. It was Matt Grzelcyk that wound up and wobbled a point shot toward the Chicago net that bounced off Chris Wagner in front, and went directly to Kuraly crashing hard from the slot area. Kuraly put it into the open net and then went speeding to the corner glass for his trademark goal celebration. Kuraly also scored the overtime game-winner last weekend in Buffalo as well, so the fourth line center now has two-game winning goals in two straight games.

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Here's the story behind Bruins' "Peaky Blinders" Winter Classic outfits

By Darren Hartwell

January 01, 2019 12:03 PM

The Boston Bruins made a statement before they even took the ice Tuesday.

The Bruins arrived at Notre Dame Stadium for the 2019 NHL Winter Classic looking like notorious British gangsters.

Their inspiration? "Peaky Blinders," of course.

The hit Netflix show follows a gang in early 20th century England, and Zdeno Chara, Patrice Bergeron and their teammates certainly pulled off the look.

Turns out they have some history with the show, too. As defenseman John Moore explained Tuesday to NBC Sports Boston's Glenn Gleason, the squad got hooked on "Peaky Blinders" during their preseason trip to China, and the veterans decided it'd be fitting to channel their inner British gangster before playing at the home of the Fighting Irish.

It sounds like the B's went all in -- especially Brad Marchand.

Just asked Brad Marchand which Shelby brother he’d be. His response- “Tommy F***in Shelby.”

Tommy Shelby and Co. will battle the Chicago Blackhawks at 1 p.m. ET on Tuesday in Boston's first Winter Classic matchup at a road stadium.

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Jake DeBrusk excited as 1st time Classic participant: "Not a bad time to have a good game"

By Joe Haggerty

January 01, 2019 11:58 AM

SOUTH BEND, Indiana – There are plenty of veteran Bruins players like Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron that have been through the Winter Classic experience multiple times before, so this won’t be their first outdoor hockey rodeo at the NHL level.

But there will be plenty of young, and not-so-young, Bruins players where the New Year’s Day game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Notre Dame Stadium will be their first chance to experience the postcard perfectness of the Winter Classic. One of those young B’s players, Jake DeBrusk, actually was on hand for the first outdoor game between the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens dubbed the Heritage Classic and played outside 15 years ago in Edmonton.

The 8-year-old DeBrusk froze his butt off as a huge Edmonton Oilers fan that day with the pictures to prove it, but it also lit the spark for him to one day play in an outdoor game at the NHL level. For players like DeBrusk and Charlie McAvoy, they grew up watching the Winter Classic on New Year’s Day and that’s growing a tradition of young players that aspire to one day be a part of the outdoor pomp and circumstance at an iconic arena like Notre Dame Stadium.

“I have a picture of it and I was wearing a red jacket…my face was pretty much the same color,” said DeBrusk, with a laugh. “I remember it being a really cool event as a fan and something that was special at the time. Obviously it’s special every time, but being a diehard Oilers fan it was cool to be a part of. But it was freezing cold.

“It’s massive, especially with the amount of media moving pieces around and we’ve gotten to see the rink. We’re looking forward to it and I think it’s going to be a very special game. It’s certainly not a bad time to have a good game in. I never thought I’d get a chance to play [in an outdoor game], but I did want to. I guess it’s one of those funny things where it comes full circle and it’s one of those special moments for me. I think for everybody in this room it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. For some guys they’ve played before in it, but for me I’m taking it that I was there once as a fan, and now I’m trying to take full advantage of the opportunity.”

In his brief time with the Bruins, DeBrusk has built up a reputation as a big game player that rises to the occasion in the big moments with goals and elevated performances. So of the first time players in this year’s Winter Classic at Notre Dame, it might just be DeBrusk’s time to shine now that he’s healthy and back in the lineup for the Black and Gold with a chance to finally live out his outdoor hockey dream from the time he was eight years old.

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Brad Marchand excited to finally get his chance at the Winter Classic

By Joe Haggerty

January 01, 2019 11:32 AM

SOUTH BEND, Indiana – Brad Marchand wasn’t with the Bruins team back on January 1, 2010 during their first Winter Classic, and the Little Ball of Hate was suspended for the 2016 Winter Classic against the Canadiens at Gillette Stadium. So Marchand has never had a chance before to play in any of the outdoor games with the Black and Gold, and is excited for something new as an All-Star, Olympian and former champ that’s experienced pretty much everything across the NHL spectrum at this point in his career.

“It hasn’t happened yet, so don’t jinx it,” said the 30-year-old Marchand, with his trademark smirk while joking about his suspension about a couple of years ago. “It’ll be an exciting game. It’s a very unique experience to be a part of something like this. It’s a fun time and a fun thing to be a part of.

“These are the things, games like this, that when you’re growing up you never think things like this are going to happen [for you]. So it’s very cool to be a part of something like this. It’s so different than what you are used like having the rink away from the stands, and the fans far away from the glass. It’s all different, and playing in front of 70,000 will be an incredible experience. Having no roof on the building…there are just so many things that are so unique about it. It’s not something that you’re going to get nervous about because there are way bigger games in the season, but it’s so different that it’s enjoyable to be a part of it.”

Despite missing last weekend’s win over Buffalo after taking a number of hard hits in the loss to the New Jersey Devils, it appears that the only way Marchand would miss the New Year’s Day game would be if he were to slewfoot the Notre Dame leprechaun mascot on the way out to the Notre Dame Stadium arena on the way to warm-ups. Short of that, the Bruins will have one of their best and most entertaining players on the outdoor ice this time around, and that should be good for everybody from the fans, the Bruins team and the Winter Classic product that the NHL has built into their centerpiece midseason event over the last ten years.

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Zdeno Chara models Bruins' spiffy Winter Classic jersey on Instagram

By Darren Hartwell

January 01, 2019 11:01 AM

Zdeno Chara is so excited for the 2019 NHL Winter Classic, he got dressed the night before.

The Boston Bruins defenseman wished fans a happy New Year on his favorite social media platform Monday night by posting a photo of himself with the team's official Winter Classic jersey on Instagram.

Chara also included a scenic shot of Notre Dame Stadium, the site of Tuesday's outdoor showdown with the Chicago Blackhawks at 1 p.m. ET.

The Bruins are happy to see Chara back in uniform; the captain missed over a month due to a knee injury but returned to Boston's lineup last week against the New Jersey Devils.

Chara likely will skate with Brandon Carlo on the Bruins' top defensive pairing Tuesday, while Tuukka Rask is expected to get the start in net.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123826 Boston Bruins well and when he’s got to make tough decisions and why he’s making them.”

To make the day even better for the Bruins, commissioner Gary Bettman McDonald: Bruins shined on NHL’s giant open-air stage, and hope that’s said the league will have discussions with the Bruins after renovations at a good sign for future TD Garden are complete about bringing a marquee event back to Boston, which could possibly mean a future All-Star game — perhaps coinciding with the organization’s 100th anniversary in 2024. Joe McDonald The Bruins accomplished everything they wanted on their trip here. It Jan 1, 2019 was a solid victory. It was timely. It could be a defining moment if they can keep building momentum as the season churns.

Now, it’s only a matter of keeping a smile on Sweeney’s face. SOUTH BEND, Ind. – was a happy man on New Year’s Day.

Even before the Bruins defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-2 in the The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Winter Classic on Tuesday at Notre Dame Stadium, the Bruins general manager was in an outstanding mood. A big reason for his pleasure: He’s beginning to see signs that this team is finally coming together, on and off the ice.

Case in point: During the team’s annual Halloween party, a few of the players dressed as characters from the “Peaky Blinders” series about British mobsters after World War I. It was decided that night that the entire team would dress as such for the Winter Classic. Most went to the same tailor, and the outfits were outstanding.

It’s small details that can help a team find its personality and build chemistry. On Tuesday, it also showed in the Bruins’ on-ice performance.

“You want to win those games when you’re on a big stage like that,” Patrice Bergeron said. “I know it’s a regular-season game, but the meaning is different when you’re playing in front of 76,000 people and on national TV. We know what’s at stake in those games and we want to make the most of it. It was a great feeling in the locker room and guys respond great to it.”

Besides getting secondary scoring from Sean Kuraly — who netted the game-winning goal or the second straight contest — and outstanding goaltending from Tuukka Rask, it was evident the Bruins were enjoying this setting and the tradition that oozes out of the Fighting Irish mystique.

“The atmosphere was unbelievable,” said David Pastrnak, who notched the Bruins’ first goal of the day, his 24th of the season.

Winning this type of game, on this stage, with this atmosphere can only help propel a team at the halfway point of the season.

“It’s not just today,” acknowledged defenseman Torey Krug. “The last game too in Buffalo, you get some depth players scoring some really big goals and then you move on to today, it’s a big stage with a younger team that’s trying to build momentum, some chemistry with our high-end talent. Hopefully we’re starting to take off right now.”

Coach Bruce Cassidy admitted prior to the Winter Classic that it was tough to decide which goalie would start against the Blackhawks. Jaroslav Halak has enjoyed the most consistent success this season, but the coach was hoping a victory in this game could get Rask going in the right direction.

He didn’t disappoint.

Rask was outstanding and made timely save after timely save.

“I was happy for him,” said Cassidy, who was sporting a Bruins letter jacket and brown fedora. “We want to get him in a rhythm where he’s playing well and giving us a good chance to win every night. That’s two in a row now and hopefully he’ll build off that.”

Since this is one of the NHL’s marquee events, the entire hockey world got a chance to see Cassidy’s passion for the game — and his personality.

“The media loves him. His players love him. He’s doing a great job,” said Bruins legend and Hall of Famer Ray Bourque.

Bourque added that since taking over coaching duties midway through the 2016-17 season, Cassidy has done an “incredible job.”

“I love the way they play,” Bourque said. “They try to play fast. They use their skill guys, but they’re very responsible defensively and he keeps his guys accountable. He really seems to have a nice way with his club. He’s very honest about his team. He’ll tell you when someone’s not playing 1123827 Buffalo Sabres It’s not reasonable to saddle Mittelstadt with all the burden that the bottom-six (or even bottom-nine) in Buffalo are carrying right now. He is still very early in the development stages and Buffalo just doesn’t have Travis Yost's Sabre Metrics: What Sabres need from Casey Mittelstadt the teammate quality yet to supplement him with the skilled wingers he probably needs. But Buffalo’s 2018-19 reality has changed from one just looking for marginal improvement at the start of the year to a team with legitimate playoff aspirations. By Travis Yost Mittelstadt figures to be a big part of that. But, at least right now, it’s been Published Tue, Jan 1, 2019 | Updated Tue, Jan 1, 2019 an uphill climb for him.

Travis Yost has been involved in the world of hockey analytics for a Buffalo News LOADED: 01.02.2019 decade and is currently part of TSN's Hockey Analytics team. Prior to joining TSN, Travis was a contributor at the Ottawa Citizen, the Sporting News and NHL Numbers, and has been a consultant for an NHL franchise. He will be contributing breakdowns on the Sabres for The Buffalo News this season. Follow Travis on Twitter: @travisyost.

Like it or not, the Buffalo Sabres need more from Casey Mittelstadt.

Mittelstadt, a 20-year old and 2017 first-round pick, has been pushed into a reasonably important role by coach Phil Housley. Part of that are the high expectations levied upon any first-round pick and his associated draft pedigree.

Another part of that is the reality that this is still a quasi-rebuilding Buffalo team – better than most imagined in 2018-19, but still sorely lacking depth in critical areas of the roster.

Mittelstadt is playing a little more than 11 minutes a night at 5-on-5 and a little more than 13 minutes a night across all situations, which puts him squarely in third-line territory. It’s a good spot for a developing player – he gets a fairly sizable allocation of shifts each night, and does so against relatively weaker competition thanks to the insulation from the Jack Eichel line.

Minutes allocation at the halfway point are itemized in the chart here.

It’s pretty obvious how reliant Buffalo has been on their top three or four players. That’s partially because of how good they have been for much of the season, but partially because of how middling Buffalo has performed with them off of the ice.

That’s particularly true at 5-on-5. If you look at some of the underlying individual and on-ice measures through the first half of the season, you can quickly get a feel for how top-heavy this team has become. Because we are focusing on Buffalo’s core forward group, let’s take into a consideration a few variables.

First, let’s consider how well Buffalo is winning the shot volume battle (Corsi percent) with each Buffalo forward on the ice. Then we’ll do the same, but from a goal percent perspective. Lastly, we will look at a player’s individual production – how many points he is accumulating on a per-60 minute basis.

What does that look like for this Sabres team?

Four forwards are driving most of Buffalo’s success – Jeff Skinner, Eichel, Sam Reinhart and Jason Pominville. Outside of that core four, the rest of Buffalo skaters are either being outshot, outscored, or a combination of the two.

Mittelstadt’s on-ice numbers aren’t great. Buffalo was getting 45 percent of the shots with him on the ice and 48 percent of the goals, entering Monday night's game. So whichever way you prefer to measure on-ice success, it’s reasonably clear that Buffalo is weaker than the average team with Mittelstadt on the ice.

The bigger issue for him right now, though, is that even when the Sabres do score with him out there, he’s infrequently involved in the scoring sequence. You’ll notice Mittelstadt’s bubble size is painfully small, and that’s because he’s only managing to score 0.8 points per-60 minutes of 5-on-5 hockey. Not only is that ninth among Buffalo skaters (and behind names such as Tage Thompson and Zemgus Girgensons), it’s only in the eighth percentile leaguewide.

And statistically speaking, he isn’t comparing very favorably to other 20- year-olds around the league. If we just take these three simple measures and compare them head-to-head with other players of identical age, you can see that his performance here has been generally underwhelming (though, it should be noted, that things like quality of teammate and general playing environment aren’t explicitly controlled for here): 1123828 Buffalo Sabres points in 30 games with the Amerks and could play on the second or third line in Buffalo, which would allow Rodrigues to move back to center.

Eichel's injury and the departure of Patrik Berglund have delivered a blow Scott Wilson nearing return, could bolster Sabres' depth at center to the team's depth at center. Casey Mittelstadt has struggled to adapt to the position during his rookie season, and Vladimir Sobotka has not contributed much offensively. By Lance Lysowski Fourth-line center Johan Larsson got some playing time with Skinner and Published Tue, Jan 1, 2019 | Updated Tue, Jan 1, 2019 Reinhart during the third period Monday. At the very least, Wilson's return would provide Housley with some flexibility and someone who can free

Rodrigues up from having to contribute on the penalty kill. It's unclear how long the Buffalo Sabres will be without Jack Eichel. The "I still have another week until – kind of a 10-12 week period just kind of captain and top-line center did not return after aggravating an upper-body see how you’re feeling," Wilson said. "I think with surgery you have to be injury in the first period of a 3-1 loss to the New York Islanders on smart about it, too. You can’t be going out too early. Then you just have Monday. setbacks for another year or what not. They just told me when I feel Coach Phil Housley was hopeful that Eichel would not miss much time, ready to let them know, and I feel like I’m pretty close. It’s been feeling however, it is a devastating blow to an offense that was already good." struggling to score goals. Evan Rodrigues could get an opportunity to center the first line if Eichel is unable to play Thursday against Florida, but that is also a hit to the Sabres' depth down the middle. Buffalo News LOADED: 01.02.2019 While there isn't an NHL-ready center in Rochester, one two-time Stanley Cup champion is close to returning to the lineup from injury: Scott Wilson.

"It’s been a long time,” Wilson told The Buffalo News on Monday morning. “Obviously I haven’t played a real game in eight or nine months but just being back with the guys and kind of getting to know everybody, being on the road a little bit. It’s been refreshing for sure.”

Wilson, 26, skated on the top line with Jeff Skinner and Sam Reinhart when Eichel was absent from practice Sunday in HarborCenter. Wilson won't draw that assignment when he finally returns, but he has proven capable of contributing valuable minutes in a bottom-six role.

The problem is Wilson has not played this season because he broke his ankle during a practice in late September. He has been skating with Dennis Miller, the Sabres' director of rehab and development, for roughly the past month.

Those exhaustive on-ice sessions are used to condition players for when they are finally cleared to return to practice. That time finally came for Wilson last week. He has participated in most practice drills, including the penalty kill, but is still at least one week away from returning to game action.

Wilson, a seventh-round draft pick of Pittsburgh in 2011, has two Stanley Cup rings from his time with the Penguins. He had three goals among six points in 20 playoff games during the Cup run of 2016-17. He's also been able to score in the past, including a 22-goal season with Wilkes- Barre/Scranton of the AHL in 2015-16.

Wilson has since failed to produce offensively. He had zero points in 17 games between Pittsburgh and Detroit before he was traded to Buffalo last December. Wilson had six goals among 14 points with a minus-17 rating in 49 games for the Sabres the rest of the season.

That was enough to earn him a two-year contract extension in July, and he gained 15 pounds in the offseason to better prepare him for this season.

"I just like the way he plays the game," Housley said of Wilson shortly before the injury occurred. "He’s hard on the forecheck. He’s physical. He brings that presence in the locker room of winning Cups and he’s able to share that information. Now he’s in a good place as far as the way he’s playing the game. He’s playing with speed. He’s getting some opportunities."

Wilson is accustomed to long, arduous rehabs after injury. In March 2016, he suffered a lower-body injury that forced him to miss the rest of the season, including the Penguins' first Stanley Cup run. He returned the following season to have eight goals among 26 points in 78 regular- season games.

Wilson, who can also play on the wing, is a capable penalty-killer and could add some grit to the third or fourth line. However, he is unlikely to solve the Sabres' scoring woes. They recalled winger C.J. Smith, who was tied for the team lead in Rochester with 29 points in 33 games.

Smith had one shot on goal late in the third period and was a minus-1 in 11:31 against the Islanders. If Eichel is unavailable to play Thursday, Buffalo could turn to Victor Olofsson. The 23-year-old winger has 29 1123829 Buffalo Sabres Not only weren’t the forwards scoring, but they were barely shooting. Often, it was because they were hemmed in their own zone. Only six forwards, including first-liners Skinner, Eichel and Pominville, generated Round and round they go: A look at how the Sabres’ second- and third- more scoring chances than they allowed. line combinations have performed Obviously, it’s been especially rough for Sobotka, Okposo and Mittelstadt. Sobotka at least has an excuse: He gets stuck in the defensive zone because he starts there. Mittelstadt gets turned around By John Vogl quickly, going through expected growing pains as a 20-year-old rookie.

Jan 1, 2019 The Sabres hope the addition of Smith will add a jolt to the combos. They need it. Here’s a look at how each second- and third-line combination

fared during the 32-game drought, listed in order of usage, according to BUFFALO, N.Y. — Carousels spin around and around but don’t move — NaturalStatTrick.com. just like the Sabres’ second and third lines. It was often a stalemate with this unit on the ice. They didn’t give up After 10 long weeks, Buffalo has finally added a new horse to the ride. goals, but they didn’t score any, either. The problem is this line needed to score. The Sabres have recalled C.J. Smith from Rochester, bringing a wrinkle to the flat-lining offense. The 24-year-old left winger might not be a Though they gave up their share of shots, they allowed just one goal. savior, but after getting a practice or two, he should save coach Phil This unit didn’t give up any goals. Housley from sending out the same failed line combinations. The scoring chances are off-the-charts bad. There’s a reason they And, man, have some of them failed. haven’t been together since Dec. 3 in Nashville. Buffalo’s season turned around Oct. 20 in Los Angeles when the first Aside from the goals for and against — and, yes, that’s a big aside — line, featuring Jack Eichel, Jeff Skinner and Jason Pominville, exploded this trio wasn’t bad. for four goals and nine points. Eichel and Skinner have remained dynamic, with Sam Reinhart replacing Pominville at right wing. This group made the most of its scoring chances while its foes did not.

The second and third lines, meanwhile, have ranged from mediocre to Housley hasn’t wanted to break up the top line of Skinner-Eichel- abysmal. It’s been a big fat fail in chemistry class as not much has Reinhart, with good reason. If Eichel’s upper-body injury keeps him out clicked for the combinations featuring Casey Mittelstadt, Conor Sheary, for any games, this would be a good line to dial back up. Kyle Okposo, Vladimir Sobotka, Evan Rodrigues, Tage Thompson, Remi Elie, Patrik Berglund, Zemgus Girgensons, Pominville and Reinhart. A lot of nothing.

It’s not from lack of trying. Housley sent out a whopping 23 combinations Housley tried this line Nov. 1 in Ottawa and didn’t go back to it until Dec. in 32 games starting with the Oct. 20 win in L.A. 18 against Florida. Another six weeks (or longer) sounds like a good break. Left wing Center Right wing Times used Once again, Reinhart shows up on the positive side of Corsi and goals. Sheary Mittelstadt Okposo 16 This line will never see the ice again. Even if Berglund had stayed with Thompson Sobotka Pominville 7 the team, this line probably never would have seen the ice again.

Sheary Sobotka Reinhart 4 The numbers were not too bad.

Thompson Mittelstadt Okposo 4 Though these three gave up more shots than they generated, they did a good job of getting quality chances. Rodrigues Mittelstadt Okposo 3 Reinhart helped in a short-lived role. Sheary Mittelstadt Reinhart 3 No goals for or against. Thompson Sobotka Reinhart 3 This line might be worth exploring again. Sheary Sobotka Rodrigues 3 Most of these eye-popping numbers came in just one game. It was the 6- Sheary Sobotka Okposo 2 2 loss to Philadelphia on Dec. 8, a game in which the Sabres stunk. This Rodrigues Sobotka Okposo 2 line clearly did not, but it wasn’t used again. It would make sense to line up Sheary-Mittelstadt-Pominville to see whether the chemistry is real. Sobotka Rodrigues Reinhart 2 Girgensons, who is out with a week-to-week injury, made a brief move up Sobotka Rodrigues Pominville 2 from his fourth-line role.

Berglund Sobotka Pominville 2 Housley used the same three players in different positions in a couple of instances. Elie Mittelstadt Okposo 2 The first stat line featured Sobotka at center with Rodrigues on the left, Thompson Sobotka Okposo 1 and there’s no reason to try that again. The second set of numbers was Elie Mittelstadt Reinhart 1 achieved with Rodrigues at center and Sobotka at left wing. It didn’t work much better. Rodrigues Sobotka Pominville 1 Whether it was Sobotka in the middle (top stat line) or Rodrigues at Elie Rodrigues Sobotka 1 center, the line held its own. That’s more than most of them can say.

Thompson Rodrigues Sobotka 1 The Sabres need to start winning again. It’s a new year with a new face for the second and third lines. Buffalo has to find chemistry if it wants to Sheary Mittelstadt Pominville 1 make the playoffs. Sobotka Rodrigues Okposo 1

Rodrigues Mittelstadt Pominville 1 The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Girgensons Mittelstadt Okposo 1

While the top line helped propel the Sabres to an 18-8-6 record during the stretch, the stat lines moved very little for everyone else. 1123830 Calgary Flames families to experience a neat thing like that, it’s going to be something where you’re going to look back on the opportunity.”

Flames to play Jets in NHL Heritage Classic in Regina Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.02.2019

Kristen Anderson, Postmedia

Next season, the Calgary Flames and the Winnipeg Jets are taking it outside.

The 2019 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic is set for Oct. 26 as part of the 2019-20 regular-season schedule and was officially announced on Tuesday by commissioner Gary Bettman during the NHL Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium.

And the location?

Smack dab in the middle of Rider Nation at Regina’s Mosaic Stadium, which, despite its green allegiances in the Canadian Football League, is in the middle of Flames’ and Jets’ fan territory.

The regular-season game is the second outdoor contest for both teams with the Flames hosting the Montreal Canadiens at the at McMahon Stadium on Feb. 20 while the Jets hosted the Edmonton Oilers at Winnipeg’s Investors Group Field on Oct. 23, 2016, which was the last instalment of the Heritage Classic series.

According to Accuweather.com, the historical average high temperature for that day is 8C and the low is -5C.

Back on Feb. 20, 2011, at McMahon, the weather conditions were a major storyline, as the wind chill made the temperature feel like -25C, forcing the ice crew to manually flood the ice in order to keep the quality in tact.

Flames captain Mark Giordano is the only remaining member of the team to play in that game.

“It was just a great atmosphere,” Giordano said in an interview with Flames TV. “In McMahon Stadium, the fans were great, but it was a very cold day and they stuck it out. There are little adjustments with the way the rink is and playing outside, but once you get into the game, it feels really old school and cool. It’s a cool experience.

“I’m sure it’s come a long ways.”

The game in Calgary was the first Heritage Classic since the first one was played in 2003 at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium. The Vancouver Canucks hosted the Ottawa Senators at BC Place on March 2, 2014.

Flames head coach Bill Peters has one outdoor game on his resume as an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings, who squared off with the Toronto Maple Leafs on New Year’s Day in 2014 at the Big House in Ann Arbor, Mich.

But Peters admitted he’s pumped with the opportunity to do it in Canada.

“It’s more than cool — it’s exciting,” Peters said in an interview with Flames TV. “Heritage Classic, playing in Saskatchewan, in Mosaic Stadium. I’ve been lucky enough to have been there, it’s a great facility, and to be there for a hockey game will be outstanding. It’s how we grew up playing: outside, in the elements and everything else. The uniqueness of being able to play outdoors at the pro level (is special).

“We all grew up doing it . . . our sons and daughters are out playing outside, and when we get a chance to join them, we do. For us to get a chance to take it outside at the NHL level, it’s outstanding.”

The game in Regina will be the fifth instalment of the Canadian-based Heritage Classic series. The facility, which holds 33,000 fans for Saskatchewan Roughrider games, was slated to be the site of two outdoor games last February — a WHL contest between the Regina Pats and the Moose Jaw Warrirors along with an NHL alumni game. But both games were moved indoors due to poor ticket sales.

“I think when you get a chance to look back on your career at the end of it, moments like that game and things like that are the ones that are going to stand out bigtime for you,” defenceman Travis Hamonic told Flames TV. “I think that family experience, as well, as players, for our 1123831 Calgary Flames It was another big night for the Flames’ top line on Monday against the Sharks, as Gaudreau had two goals and two assists, Lindholm had a goal and an assist, while Monahan had five (!) assists.

Flames’ top line ‘up there with the best’ in NHL All are on pace for career campaigns.

Gaudreau’s four points gave him 55 on the season, good enough for fifth Kristen Anderson, Postmedia in NHL scoring with 21 goals and 34 assists (prior to Tuesday’s NHL action). He’s scoring at a 1.38 points per game clip and needs just nine more goals to equal his career high of 30. His career-high points production (84) came in 2017-18, a terrible season for the team in which As the calendar flipped to 2019, it became painfully clear that the Calgary Gaudreau played with an injured Monahan for most of it and without him Flames’ first line can hide no longer. for the last portion of it. They are — and should be, given their production at this point in the Monahan, meanwhile, has 21 goals and 27 assists this season to give 2018-19 National Hockey League season — considered one of the him 48 points in 40 games. At the rate he’s racking up points, it’s not league’s top trios, three players who have played together for the hard to imagine a situation where he shatters his career-best 64 points majority of the season and are the driving force for the Pacific Division (31 goals and 33 assists) in 74 games last season — amazing, leaders. considering it was such an injury-plagued campaign for the centre. Their chemistry and scoring ability are main reasons why the Flames are “Obviously, I’ve been really fortunate this year,” Monahan said. “I’ve been in contention for the Western Conference lead and are now considered a finding the net quite often and been playing with two really good players. dangerously offensive team. There’s no claiming an “Eastern We’ve built some chemistry and been getting better and better as the Conference” bias; that these players don’t get noticed as much in the season has gone on. Mountain time zone. There’s no flying under the radar. “We’re good buddies off the ice, too.” Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, and Elias Lindholm are legit. And everyone knows it. The competitiveness, skill, dangerous ability and dynamics of Gaudreau are well-known in these parts. “I think the way we’re playing right now, we should be up there,” Lindholm said as the Flames wrapped up 2018 with Monday’s 8-5 home Monahan’s on-ice smarts, strength and faceoff abilities have been win over the San Jose Sharks. “We produce a lot of points … we evident since he cracked the Flames roster in 2013-14. definitely have a good season going right now. But Lindholm’s addition to the Flames and his immediate impact have “I think we’re definitely up there with the best.” been a best-case scenario for Flames general manager Brad Treliving, who traded Dougie Hamilton, Micheal Ferland and defensive prospect The Flames’ ‘big three’ are somewhat of an anomaly in the NHL as the Adam Fox for Lindholm and top-four defender Noah Hanifin at the 2018 trend leans towards duos playing together and developing chemistry to NHL draft. allow for more flexibility or, simply, a case-by-case basis on circumstances and injuries. Gaudreau, Monahan and Lindholm have Lindholm has proved he’s the missing piece of bread to the played the majority of the season together since they were thrown Gaudreau/Monahan sandwich on the right side, has already surpassed together in the early stages of fall training camp. his career high in goals scored with 18 strikes this season, along with 26 assists in 40 games. The 24-year-old Swede scored 17 in 2014-15. He is An obvious contrast would be the Colorado line of Mikko Rantanen, also just one point away from tying his career high of 45. Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog, which was broken up briefly but back together to start Monday’s 3-2 overtime loss to the L.A. Kings. “Obviously those dudes have been top players in the league for a while Prior to Tuesday’s action, Rantanen and MacKinnon were sitting second now,” Lindholm said of his linemates. “I think it was good for me to come and third in NHL scoring with 62 and 59 points, respectively. here and get a change and it’s a huge opportunity to play with those guys and see how skilled they are. It’s tough when you play in the East to see Lindholm believes he and his linemates are good, but not quite at the the players. You only see them twice a year. level of the best line in the NHL … yet. “To play with them has been a huge opportunity for me and it’s been a “It’s tough to compare against the Colorado line,” Lindholm said. “That fun ride so far.” line is the best, for now. To beat them, we have to step it up a little bit.” The consistent media attention in Canada is something new for Tampa Bay’s top scoring trio is Brayden Point (52 points), Nikita Lindholm, who played in relative obscurity in Carolina last season. But Kucherov (65 points) and Tyler Johnson (30 points) which have these days, it doesn’t matter where you are; you can’t turn on the consistently been together for the last month and a half. television, read the newspaper or open social media without hearing the There’s the inseparable duo of Blake Wheeler and Mark Scheifele in buzz about Calgary’s top line. Winnipeg, who have been skating with Nikolaj Ehlers of late. Boston “In the beginning, it was different,” Lindholm said. “I don’t think too much recently welcomed back Patrice Bergeron, who is back with Brad and just try to come here every day and try to win and try to get better. Marchand and David Pastrnak. It’s fun, every time we’re out there, I feel like we can score. Obviously There’s Toronto’s John Tavares and Mitch Marner, who were playing you can’t score every shift but every time we’re out there, I think we can with Zach Hyman before he was injured. score.”

There’s Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have Confidence is a funny thing. played well with Alex Chiasson (he is hurt, also). “When you’re putting the puck in night after night and getting chances Washington’s Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom. and getting looks, you obviously want to feed off that,” Monahan said. “Playing with Lindy and Johnny, every night you have to expect to get Pittsburgh’s Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel. looks and bear down around the net.

If they’re not the best line in the NHL, no one can argue against the fact “It’s been a fun year.” that Gaudreau, Monahan and Lindholm have been the most consistent. In December alone, they racked up 65 points between the three of them. Individually, they also had the most productive month of their NHL Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.02.2019 careers in December as Gaudreau had 26 points, Monahan had 21 and Lindholm had 18.

“It’s one of the top five or six (lines) in the league, for sure,” said Flames head coach Bill Peters. “That line in Colorado has a little bit more size to it, Rantanan is a big man, McKinnon’s a big horse. They’re big guys and when you look at it, they’re a little younger … one of the advantages we have is the lefty in Monny and righty in Lindy for faceoff purposes.” 1123832 Calgary Flames “It was nice to hear, obviously,” he said. “It was nice to get one. I feel like I felt good after the break here and had some chances every night. Felt like I was getting better and finally one went in.”

Flames end the year with fireworks, 8-5 win over Sharks No matter how it went in. Still counted. It also gave the Flames an 8-4 lead on the Sharks which was cut into by Joe Thornton at the 13:15 mark of the final frame. Kristen Anderson, Postmedia It was a tough night for both goaltenders, but Rittich had the upper hand on Dell who allowed eight goals on 27 Flames attempts.

It was exactly the way the Calgary Flames envisioned ringing in 2019. He was sharp early and made the game easy on himself, as demonstrated by a perfect stop on Erik Karlsson after losing his stick and And, for two players specifically, it was a good way to put an end to a just relying on body positioning in the first period. forgettable back half of 2018. In the second, he probably would have wanted to have better body In an offensive explosion before the New Year’s Eve fireworks at positioning on Burns’s rocket from the point. The strike from the bearded, Scotiabank Saddledome, the Flames held onto place atop the Pacific man-bun-wearing Sharks defender chipped into the Flames lead which, Division standings with an 8-5 win over the San Jose Sharks who, with a at that point, was still 3-2 but the Sharks were rolling, at one point, victory on Monday, would have leapfrogged the hosts. holding a 7-0 edge on the shot clock in the second period. Not at the Flames’ party though, as they improved to 24-12-4 and have The Flames regained their two-goal lead just as Melker Karlsson was the Western Conference lead still in their sights (Winnipeg holds the spot stepping out of the penalty box. A pretty passing play led to Calgary’s currently with a 25-12-2 record after Monday’s 4-3 win at Edmonton). fourth goal between Monahan and Gaudreau to Tkachuk who cashed in. “It was a big game at this time of the year,” noted Flames head coach Bill They looked to have scored a fifth when Bennett crashed Dell’s net but it Peters. “As big as you can get. We’re not at the halfway point but there’s was waived off due to goaltender interference. Whether or not it was the lots on the line … I didn’t think there would be 13 goals. I didn’t see that right or wrong call, the look on Flames head coach Bill Peters’ face said it coming. I thought it was going to be a hard-fought game and it was. all immediately after (he rolled his eyes, mouthed a word that rhymes “There was lots of good board play by both teams. I thought the team with “duck,” and laughed). that successfully got it in behind the other team wore ‘em down a bit. At the end of the second, Rittich stood tall and made a fantastic stop on There were some heavy shifts both ways. That part I expected — the Marcus Sorensen. But on the ensuing face-off, the Flames took on major game lived up to that. But I didn’t see 13 goals.” water and Monahan turned over the puck to Joonas Donskoi who beat As for the stars, however, it was James Neal and Michael Frolik that both Rittich to cut the lead — again. had the most noteworthy performances. Hard to believe the score was only 5-3 for the Flames as they headed Sure, the top line of Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan and Elias into the third period. Lindholm was unstoppable. They chipped in for two goals and two Then again, did you expect anything less from two top teams in the assists from Gaudreau, one goal and two assists from Lindholm and five Pacific Division who could clash in the 2019 post-season? assists from Monahan. Or the fireworks that flew with 40.7 seconds remaining? In front of And David Rittich had a standout night, stopping 28-of-33 shots sent his Calgary’s net, Oliver Kylington had given Donskoi a cross-check to the way to secure his 13th win this season. back. Tkachuk mixed it up with Kane after the Sharks winger took But the fact that Michael Frolik had made an immediate impact, helping exception to a hit on Erik Karlsson and both were delivered 10 minute set up both of Mikael Backlund’s first-period markers, was a good first misconducts. step to solidify himself as the best right-wing option for Calgary’s second Then, with 22.7 seconds remaining, Bennett threw down with Barclay line. Again, that is. Woodrow after he took exception to Bennett’s hit on Radim Simek which Frolik had been the subject of some drama earlier in the day when his may get a look from the NHL’s department of player safety. agent, Allan Walsh, sounded off on Twitter about the 30-year-old When asked about the hit, Peters said that he wanted observe the video winger’s usage. Frolik had been a healthy scratch in Calgary’s 3-2 again. overtime loss to the Vancouver Canucks which had upset Walsh and his client. As such, Bill Peters re-formed the 3M line of Backlund, Frolik and “It was right along the wall there so I have to back and look at it,” he said. Matthew Tkachuk which had been one of the team’s most successful “The league will look at it, I’m sure.” trios in the past. The Sharks didn’t like it. They proved that they still have chemistry, helping contribute to the Flames 3-1 first period lead. On their first shift, in fact, Frolik caused a “Just kind of gutless,” said forward Joe Pavelski. turnover with his skating which led to the Flames first goal “Predatory. That’s it,” said head coach Pete DeBoer. just 1:10 into the game. Frolik was able to push the puck into the corner and behind the net to Tkachuk who fed Backlund for a tap-in out front. Should be an interesting 2019 which, for the Flames, kicks off on Jan. 2 Tkachuk also scored on a first-period powerplay. with a four-game road trip through Detroit, Boston, Philadelphia and Chicago. “We know what to expect from (Frolik) and he skated real well and made some good plays,” Backlund commended. “He forechecks hard. He backchecks hard. He’s just a great team player, team-first guy. He’s easy to play with and I always enjoy playing with him.” Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.02.2019

As for Neal, the slumping winger hadn’t scored in his previous 24 games and has faced criticism for his lack of production in his first season of a five-year pact with the Flames. Heading into Monday, Neal had three goals and four assists in 38 games.

But lo and behold in the third period, as Sam Bennett wheeled around to fend off Evander Kane and Brent Burns in the Flames’ offensive zone, he threw a puck on net which went off Neal’s shin pad and past Airdrie native Aaron Dell.

The Saddledome fans went nuts after Neal’s goal was announced. 1123833 Calgary Flames guys and they’re happy, I’d be disappointed as a coach in the character of the individual. That’s not the case with Fro. I expect Fro to be outstanding (Monday).”

Agent’s tweet puts Flames’ Frolik in spotlight ahead of New Year’s Eve The 30-year-old left-shooting right winger has seven goals in 22 games game this season which has been frustrating for Frolik who is into his fourth season of a five-year deal with a cap hit/AAV of $4.3-million. Prior to Monday he was averaging 11:54 of ice time per game. Kristen Anderson, Postmedia “Obviously when you’re scratched a couple of times and don’t have that much ice time,” Frolik said. “Yeah, I knew my role was probably going to change when I came here this year. We have a few new bodies here and It is not in Michael Frolik’s nature to dominate the day’s headlines, top I knew the role was probably going to change a little bit. But I didn’t news story on TSN or Sportsnet, or to be in the centre of a large pre- expect it would change that much. game media scrum. “Obviously it’s been frustrating and the injury, too, those things happen. But after his agent Allan Walsh spoke out about his client via Twitter But it sucks when you work hard for the summer and you are off for a (@walsha) on Sunday night, the spotlight was on Frolik at the Calgary month (with an injury) and you can’t do much. It takes time to get back … Flames morning skate on Monday. and hopefully I get a chance to do that (Monday).” Walsh, the co-managing director of Octagon-Hockey — the firm who AROUND THE GLASS represents Frolik and other NHLers such as Vladimir Tarasenko, Mark Scheifele, Jonathan Huberdeau and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins — In an interview on Sportsnet 960 The Fan, Flames general manager Brad acknowledged that many people have been inquiring as to why Frolik has Treliving said D Michael Stone and D Juuso Valimaki are “not close” to been a healthy scratch this season. recovering from their respective injuries. Valimaki is dealing with a high ankle sprain and pinpointed late January for a return while Stone, who “Keeping one of the teams most efficient and versatile forwards in the suffered a blood clot and has missed 18 games, is progressing but not stands marginalizes and devalues a great team player,” Walsh tweeted. ready yet … D Dalton Prout and C/RW Austin Czarnik were healthy “Head coach’s attempt to run a good player out of town?” scratches for the Flames on Monday. Flames head coach Bill Peters confirmed that Frolik would be in the lineup Monday night against the San Jose Sharks and skating on a line with Mikael Backlund and Matthew Tkachuk. Peters declined to comment Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.02.2019 on the tweet from Walsh but stressed that he doesn’t let outside noise dictate his lineup decisions.

Given the nature of a hockey-mad Canadian market, Frolik anticipated the extra attention on Monday.

“I don’t want to comment on any of those things. If you have any questions about that, you can reach out to my agent,” he said. “He’ll probably tell you more. I’m sorry but on this (subject) you can’t get anything from me and I just want to focus on (Monday’s) game … I want to help the guys and fight for the guys tonight and leave it up to that.”

Frolik is coming off a high ankle sprain which saw him miss 15 games before making a return in Calgary’s 3-1 loss against the St. Louis Blues where he played 10:15 of ice time.

Following the Christmas break in which Frolik skated twice on his own, he logged 9:18 in the Flames’ 4-1 win over the Winnipeg Jets.

But, on Saturday against the Vancouver Canucks, Frolik was scratched in favour of winger Austin Czarnik despite his participation in the morning skate. Frolik confirmed on Monday that the scratch was unrelated to his injury.

“It’s usually not easy, missing a month and going right at it,” Frolik said. “With the ice time I’ve had, I don’t get into the flow of the game. Obviously those things happen but, like I said, I just want to be good with (the second line) and focus on (Monday).

“It’s not perfect. It’s not 100 per cent. But I don’t want to make any excuses. I was skating before I was in the games and I said I’m ready and I think (the injury) is going to stick (around) for a bit. But there is no excuse.”

Frolik’s only other healthy scratch was on Oct. 13 at Colorado. Following his press box assignment, he came back into the lineup on Oct. 17 against Boston and scored two goals playing with his old pals Backlund and Tkachuk.

“The last time this happened, he played against Boston, how were they?” Peters quipped. “He has a good track record in the National Hockey League. He’s scored some big goals for us here early (in the season). Then, again, he’s missed a lot of time and our team has played well, with and without him. A guy coming back off an injury, he’s gotta get re- established again.”

Peters said that the decision to scratch Frolik against Vancouver was based on getting Austin Czarnik into the lineup.

“We wanted to play ‘Z’ that night so somebody has to come out,” he said. “There’s tough decisions to be made each and every night. When we post the lineup, nobody’s happy when they’re not in. If I’m scratching 1123834 Calgary Flames 2. Get Mike Smith going

While at this point, we’re past the point of trying to resurrect him as the club’s No. 1 goalie, you still do need Smith. As the calendar flips to 2019, Flames are well-positioned in the West: Six keys to staying put in the standings Smith needs to play games and he needs to win games and let’s not forget, he’s won six of his last seven decisions.

The key for Smith is in better starts. He’s had a penchant for giving up a By Darren Haynes bad goal early, which is a gut-punch that can really stagger the team. Jan 1, 2019 While the Flames have the offensive horsepower to overcome the occasional bad early goal, chasing the game is taxing and is only going to get more difficult as the season wears on.

Last time Calgary spent New Year’s Day in the top four in the league A combination of better starts for the team — “starting on time” as coach standings, movies at the theatre included The Distinguished Gentleman, Bill Peters likes to say — and more consistent performance early in Forever Young and A Few Good Men. games from Smith, should lead to better overall results and allow the team to navigate through the rest of this season with its current That was Jan. 1, 1993, when a 24-10-4 record through 38 games had the goaltending duo, which is the best-case scenario, by far, for the team. Flames second overall to the Pittsburgh Penguins, first in the 12-team Clarence Campbell Conference and first in the Smythe Division. Acquiring another goaltender costs you assets, money and cap space and that is not a path this team will want to go down unless it absolutely Of course, if you’ll allow me to digress for a minute, the Penguins were has to. led that season by Mario Lemieux, who on this day 26 years ago, had 101 points (37 goals, 64 assists) in 38 games. That’s right, 101 points 3. Stay healthy before the halfway point. Crazy! That was good for a whopping 34-point lead over Pat LaFontaine in the scoring race. The key guy here that you can’t help but think about is Giordano. He is on the ice an average of nearly 25 minutes per night, playing every shift Fast forward to this season, Calgary has been one of the feel-good hard, always laying his body on the line, plus he’s got an injury history, stories of the first half. too.

Thanks to distinguished gentleman, Johnny Gaudreau, fifth in scoring While the Flames overcame his loss to make the playoffs with a superb with 21-34-55 (on pace for 113 points, which would shatter his career final six weeks in 2015, that doesn’t mean they could do it again. high of 84), their forever-young 35-year-old captain, Mark Giordano and (more than) a few good men including Matthew Tkachuk, Elias Lindholm In fact, the loss of anyone in the top four impacts where guys slot and and David Rittich, Calgary opens 2019 behind only Tampa Bay, Toronto trouble arises when you have to ask too much of players. The promising and Winnipeg in the NHL’s overall standings, second to the Jets in the rookie trio of 20-year-old Juuso Valimaki (out until late January with a Western Conference and in first place in the Pacific Division. sprained ankle), Oliver Kylington, 21, and Rasmus Andersson, 22, have played great on the third pairing. But playing 10-12 often-sheltered It’s a heck of a place to be for a franchise that has only made the playoffs minutes per night is way different than logging 20 minutes, while 13 times in 28 seasons since winning the Stanley Cup in 1989 — and continuously matched up against the opposition’s top two lines, which is made it out of the first round just twice over those three painful decades. the job description when you play on the top two pairings.

Rather than look back at how they got there, the more compelling If there was an injury, there’s always the trade market to try and plug a question is how do they stay there? hole, assuming it happens prior to the trade deadline, but what’s available and what’s the cost are major questions. Moving Andersson As I see it, there are six keys to staying in the top eight in the West and into the top four or slotting Noah Hanifin or Travis Hamonic onto the top punching a ticket to the Stanley Cup playoffs: pairing is something the team could ride out in the short term. But in the 1. Continue to ride David Rittich long term, losing anyone in that top-four would be a huge blow.

Having started seven of the last eight games, Rittich is being used right Up front, there’s a bit more wiggle room in terms of contingencies with now as the No. 1 guy and he’s earned it. He hasn’t been anointed as the James Neal lurking on the third line, and now Sam Bennett, too. That starter, nor is there any reason to make such a formal declaration. It’s not said, lose a Tkachuk, Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, Mikael Backlund or like he is waiting to get new business cards printed. More importantly for Lindholm for a long period and you’re not replacing them. Losing any of this club, though, is that they continue to deploy him as their No. 1 those five would be a crippling blow. because he’s proven that he gives the team the best chance to win. 4. Get more from the third line With Mike Smith healthy and available, the 26-year-old Czech has still It’s not an easy thing to track due to the frequency in which Peters gotten the tap on the shoulder for all the important games – versus the tweaks his lines during a game, plus there are goals that come mid-line league leader in Tampa Bay, versus the Western Conference leader in change, right after a power play or penalty kill or with the goalie pulled for Winnipeg, versus the Sharks in last night’s first-place Pacific showdown. a sixth attacker. Caveats aside, I maintain a running tally of 5-on-5 goals It’s going to be important to monitor his workload, but this shouldn’t be a by line. These totals exclude power-play goals, shorthanded goals and guy running on fumes. The season’s first 40 starts have been split right empty-net goals and are meant to reflect the relative contributions of down the middle with Rittich and Smith making 20 starts each. With 42 each line at even-strength, while not factoring in ice time. games remaining, what’s the right number for Rittich? Is it 30? Is it 35? The breakdown through 40 games: There are only six back-to-backs remaining and looking specifically at January, thanks to a nine-day break at the end of the month, there are First line – 37 goals only 11 games this month. Fatigue should not be an issue yet. Second line – 26 goals But you do need to keep in mind that since coming to North America, Rittich hasn’t started more than 32 games in a season. That was two Third line – 11 goals years ago. Last season, between Stockton and Calgary, he made 28 Fourth line – 9 goals starts. The first line of Gaudreau, Monahan and Lindholm has obviously been The most workload thus far in his career came in his final season in the excellent, tying a season-high Monday night against San Jose by Czech Republic in 2015-16 when he appeared in 48 games during the producing four 5-on-5 goals. The same trio play together on the power regular season, then another 10 games in the playoffs. play, too, which inflates their overall numbers. As one of the best lines in But he handled that season well — so well that his performance earned the league, all three rank in the top 20 in league scoring. him a contract with Calgary as a free agent. There’s no reason to believe While Backlund’s goal total is noticeably down — only four non-empty- that at his age, he can’t handle a similar workload while looking for net goals prior to his two first period tallies on Monday night, the second opportunities to give him an extra day or two off. line has been more productive than you might think, just 11 back of the pace set by the No. 1 line. While the fourth line will never score as often as fans want, that rotating The by-product of elevating Michael Frolik from the fourth line back into trio — whoever it’s been — has been serviceable enough. They’ve his familiar spot on the 3M line means it bumps Bennett down a rung. If cooled off lately, blanked in the last 10 games, but that fourth unit has still Bennett can maintain his intense level of play that he has shown in spurts produced seven goals since Nov. 1, which is three more than what the in the top-six, you could and should have yourself a decent third line with third line has produced over that same span. Bennett, Jankowski and Neal.

Speaking of third line, that’s where the biggest opportunity for growth lies. Heading into the second half of the season, including the postseason While “third line” may sound like code for “James Neal”, it’s not only him. potentially, where Calgary’s No. 1 line is going to command even more It’s Bennett. It’s Mark Jankowski, too. attention and be more aggressively defended, a greater onus will fall on the middle-six to contribute offensively. Looking strictly at the lines as they were set up to begin a game, Peters has tried 16 different variations of a third line through the first 40 games. 5. Fix PP2 Last night’s configuration has been the most common: The second power-play unit has once again hit the skids and it’s got to Bennett-Jankowski-Neal, 9 games be nearly time for associate coach Geoff Ward to reconsider the personnel on that unit. Mangiapane-Jankowski-Neal, 5 games Heck, even the barely-existent PP3 is outscoring them over the last Czarnik-Ryan-Neal, 5 games month with Alan Quine, Austin Czarnik and Kerby Rychel combining for Bennett-Dube-Neal, 3 games the final goal of the game, on the man advantage, in that 7-2 blowout of St. Louis a couple weeks ago. Bennett-Ryan-Frolik, 3 games The last power-play goal scored by the second unit was Derek Ryan’s Quine-Jankowski-Neal, 2 games goal against Chicago on Dec. 2. Since then, not a sniff. Heck, barely any sustained zone time. Dube-Ryan-Neal, 2 games But how do you fix it? The last thing you want to do is risk breaking up Mangiapane-Ryan-Neal, 2 games the lethal first unit. Bennett-Ryan-Neal, 2 games So you’re limited to other options on the roster and what might you be Dube-Lindholm-Neal, 1 game able to do. A few things to consider:

Czarnik-Jankowski-Neal, 1 game Hanifin has been quarterbacking the PP. Do they try Andersson instead? The team has had good success using Andersson in 6-on-5 situations at Dube-Jankowski-Neal, 1 game the end of games with the goalie pulled, producing three goals with Andersson integral in all of them. Andersson is a right shot so that Frolik-Jankowski-Neal, 1 game changes the look, plus he’s got a heavy shot, so that’s an added threat. Quine-Jankowski-Czarnik, 1 game Or do they go three forwards and two defencemen and keep Hanifin, but Quine-Jankowski-Hathaway, 1 game add Andersson also, in place of one of the forwards.

Frolik-Ryan-Neal, 1 game They’re determined to have both left and right shots on both units to increase the chances of winning that initial O-zone draw, but if the Interestingly and somewhat condemningly, last night, in Game 40, was coaches decided they could live without that a little bit, other forward just the second time Calgary got an all-third line goal involving Neal. options that could be tried in place of the right-shooting Ryan are left- That’s right, it was just the second time all season. The other was Game shooting options Jankowski and Dube. 4 when he scored his first of the year, set up by Bennett and Dillon Dube. This should be a situation in which Czarnik, with more space to operate Other than that, Neal’s four other even-strength points were: and a bit less physicality, is able to thrive. He hasn’t so far, but worth another try? Mind you, he’d need to be in the lineup first and that’s an Oct. 3 – Secondary assist on a goal by Gaudreau, also assisted by issue as he’s been a frequent scratch of late. Monahan 6. Continue to make home ice an advantage Oct. 25 – Goal set up by Monahan One of the Flames major stumbles last year was their record on home Nov. 1 – Goal set up by Gaudreau ice. Between regulation and overtime, they lost 24 times. Dec. 15 – Primary assist on a goal by Tkachuk Hanging around the top of the division, the odds are steadily increasing In snapping a 24-game scoring drought by having Bennett bank the that not only will they make the playoffs, but they could have home-ice eventual game-winner off his skate and in, Neal was philosophical on advantage. Monday, chuckling postgame about the fortuitous bounce after a stretch Home-ice advantage? It’s only that if you are tough to beat in your own in which the perennial 20-goal scorer, had 53 consecutive shots not go barn. This wasn’t the case early in the season when they split their first in. That excluded hitting the goal post, which he did in the second period. four games at the Scotiabank Saddledome, including a 9-1 drubbing at “I knew that was the way it was going to go,” said Neal, whose career the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins on Oct. 25. shooting percentage prior to this season was 12 percent. This year he’s But they’ve turned it around since. The only two blemishes were a 3-2 at 4.5 percent. loss on Nov. 15 to Montreal in which they blew a lead in the third period “As of late, when you’re getting shots and you’re getting back into your with the game-winner being a soft goal on Smith. They also turned in a groove, I think it’s visible,” said Neal, whose 13 shots over the last four dud in front of friends, family and last-minute Christmas shoppers in that games is second only to Gaudreau’s 16. “As a player and spectators sleepy Saturday matinee against St. Louis prior to the Christmas break. watching, I think you can see my game start to get going a little bit more.” Other than that, they have picked up points every night at home. When Neal missed a game on Dec. 18 after taking a shot in the jaw in the they return home on Jan. 9 to play host to Colorado, they will enter that previous game, a short break he is viewing as beneficial. game with just two regulation losses at home in the previous 75 days. That’s two-and-a-half months of strong play on home ice where they’ve “I’ve felt good coming back, I just wanted to reset a little bit, and get gone 10-2-4. That’s second to Tampa Bay (13-3-0) for the best home going into the new year,” said Neal. “Tonight felt really good, I was record over that span. excited. New Year’s Eve, first place, division game. For sure, it’s a big game and I get up for those games. You want to score big goals and it At 12-4-4 on the season, the Flames are on pace to finish the season was a good one tonight.” with 57 home points. That would be a 19-point increase from a year ago and would be the best home record since they collected 58 points in If Neal can finally turn the corner and if Jankowski can find a way to 2008-09 (27-10-4). channel his strong shorthanded play into 5-on-5, he should be able to produce more. Heck, he had 17 goals as a rookie last season. Plus, they’re also done at home with some of the league’s toughest opponents — Tampa Bay, Winnipeg, Washington, Pittsburgh and Nashville.

Looking ahead, there are three key stretches:

Jan. 9-18 – Calgary returns from this next four-game road trip and plays a season-long five-game homestand where the 11th-place Sabres are the most difficult opponent, based on today’s standings. The others are Colorado (15th), Florida (20th), Detroit (25th) and Arizona (26th). This should be a time to make hay, but they can’t afford to take their foot off the gas.

Feb. 7 – Starting on Jan. 23, the Flames have nine days off with the NHL All-Star break combined with the club’s bye week. Upon the return to action on Feb. 1, they play six games out of seven on the road with some tough stops on the docket in Washington, Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh. Plunked in the middle is a single home game against the San Jose Sharks. Bound to be a spicy one after the New Year’s Eve game, it’s going to be a game they’ll want to have.

Mar. 10-29 – Nine of the Flames’ final 14 games are at home, eight of those come in this stretch in which their only two road games are one-off trips to Winnipeg and Vancouver. If they enter that stretch in good shape, it will be an opportunity to build some separation and secure a higher seed both in the Pacific and in the West. If they’ve fallen off, it will be a chance to get back into it. Immediately following is the customary late- season California trip, which takes the team through game 81 (before finishing off at home to Edmonton on Apr. 6). Some breathing room in the standings, prior to that trip, would be beneficial in numerous ways including managing playing time for the team’s key players.

Back in 1992-93 when it was the top four in the division that made the playoffs, Calgary had a 21-point lead on the Oilers as of Jan. 1. Making the playoffs was already pretty much a lock.

That’s not the case anymore. The league is now 31 teams instead of 24 and Calgary is in a competitive 15-team conference in which only eight teams get in. Vancouver, outside of a playoff spot at the moment, only trail the Flames by 10 points.

You can’t take anything for granted, nor does it sound like Peters will. While they’ve picked up five of six points since the Christmas break, Peters has been candid in saying that his team is still giving up too many scoring chances and that they need to tighten up defensively.

When the team returns from this four-game trip that begins in Detroit on Wednesday and continues Thursday in Boston, you can expect the work boots to be on in practice as Calgary looks to patch up its leaky play of late.

Keep working at the holes in their game, keep improving, never be satisfied, don’t get caught reading your own press clippings. That, plus the six areas identified above, will be key over the final three-plus months of the regular season.

Execute in those areas and everything old will be new again, including a return to the postseason and maybe, just maybe, home-ice advantage for the first time since 2006. Only this time, great movies to watch at the theatre are actually series on Netflix.

Stranger things have happened.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123835 Calgary Flames The latest, of course, is his tweet from a few days ago when he hammered Flames head coach Bill Peters for the usage, or lack thereof, this season of his client, winger Michael Frolik:

LeBrun Notebook: Chiarelli under pressure to deliver in Edmonton, “Many people in Calgary have been reaching out asking why Michael agent’s tweet sparks Frolik controversy Frolik is a healthy scratch. Keeping one of the team’s most efficient and versatile forwards in the stands marginalizes and devalues a great team player. Head coach’s attempt to run a good player out of town?” By Pierre LeBrun Frolik had been scratched recently but also missed 15 games to injury. Jan 1, 2019 The first thing you need to know is that Walsh doesn’t hit Twitter like that unless he has first had a few behind-the-scenes conversations with the organization. And sources do indeed confirm that Walsh and Flames GM There is much furor among Edmonton Oilers fans this week after a Brad Treliving talked about the Frolik situation a few times over the past couple of minor trades brought in a pair of third-pairing defencemen. several weeks before Walsh finally took to social media to hammer What it tells you is the level of angst rising among Oilers fans in a season Peters. now once again going in the wrong direction. Now, as it turns out, Frolik was back in the lineup New Year’s Eve and in And so every move embattled GM Peter Chiarelli now makes will be met fact in a top-six role, back on his old line with Mikael Backlund and by the team’s fans with cynicism. He’s lost the benefit of the doubt Matthews Tkachuk. Interesting timing? My understanding from a source among that fan base, that much is clear from social media. And you get in the organization is that Peters had decided hours before the Walsh it. In a season in which rival Vancouver has risen from the ashes with its tweet that this would be the case. I don’t know that Walsh would buy that. rebuild and hated Calgary is leading the Pacific Division, Oilers fans are Regardless, it is a situation to monitor going forward. If Frolik doesn’t stay irritated. in the mix in a decent role, no doubt Walsh could eventually put pressure They certainly didn’t like the Ryan Strome-for-Ryan Spooner deal earlier on Treliving to move him. If he hasn’t already suggested that possibility. this season, either. It’s been an interesting year for a first-place Flames team that way. I’m So Chiarelli once again is under the gun. Every move questioned. It sure James Neal isn’t totally thrilled he chose Calgary in free agency in a reminds me a lot of how it got for Marc Bergevin in Montreal last year. big decision only to toil on the third line all year. Sam Bennett’s agent Remember the reaction from many Habs fans after the Max Domi-Alex Darren Ferris earlier this season shared with Treliving his disappointment Galchenyuk trade last June? with his client not playing a big enough role, something that went back to last year. Seems like that situation is OK now. A funny thing happened, though. Bergevin had a heck of an offseason, all his moves have come up roses, and now the heat is off. It’s not always easy to appease everyone. The Flames are a deeper team this year, they added Neal and Elias Lindholm in the offseason, That’s what Chiarellli needs now. Not only does he obviously need to they’re winning, and ice time has to be earned. make the playoffs, I think, to keep his job, but to do so, he needs to make a few moves before the Feb. 25 trade deadline that come up aces. I suspect Walsh would argue that Frolik never got a real chance right from the get-go, that the new coach Peters made up his mind about him Chiarelli made the coaching change to bring in veteran Ken Hitchcock before camp even started. and while that paid off with early results with the team clearly responding, injuries to top-four blue-liners Oscar Klefbom and Kris Russell have So, we’ll see where all this heads. Treliving is a level-headed guy and I hammered the team. They just can’t defend now. At least not well like the way he’s stick-handled his way around a lot of this so far this enough to win games consistently. They’ve given up 35 goals in the eight season. He’s not going to be forced into anything he’ll regret. The team is games since Klefbom and Russell went down. winning, and that’s the main thing here.

So the urgency of bringing in Brandon Manning and Alex Petrovic, No question the GM will want to act before Feb. 25. His primary need, I veteran blue-liners who can give Hitchcock more dependable defensive believe, is a left-handed, third-pair defenceman. Every team that aspires minutes, albeit as guys who are what they are: third-pairing guys. Those to win in the playoffs wants to bolster its blueline before the deadline in were just stopgap measures. one form or another. Another lefty on D is what Treliving will aim for I think, preferably a rental. The real test awaits in more meaningful moves ahead of the trade deadline. A right-winger would be one of those desired additions Monday night’s 8-5 win over the Sharks was fun to watch. The Flames perhaps, but let’s not kid ourselves, the top need is a top-four blue-liner, are a more balanced team this year. They can beat you in different ways. which of course isn’t easy to obtain. Another veteran for the D-corps would be the perfect add. The kind of insurance contenders seek. For example, I do believe Carolina and Edmonton have had the odd chat over the past several weeks although I don’t sense anything that’s gone very far. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Let me be blunt: if the Oilers were to ever ask for either Justin Faulk or Brett Pesce, the Hurricanes I am sure would then ask for Ryan Nugent- Hopkins. Which I doubt very much Chiarelli would have any interest in doing. All you’re doing at that point is trying to fill one major hole in one area but creating a crater somewhere else.

No, what I think Chiarelli hopes to somehow swing closer to Feb. 25 is upgrading the blue-line in exchange for futures.

Would Los Angeles, for example, look at a picks/prospects package in exchange for Jake Muzzin? That’s the kind of thing I believe Chiarelli has to try to look at as teams start to waive the white flag.

Problem is, the Oilers have to stay in the playoff race themselves in the meantime.

Veteran agent Allan Walsh isn’t shy to stir the pot in order to protect the interests of his clients.

Now, you can debate whether he’s doing his client a service or a disservice by bringing in that kind of attention, but you can’t debate the passion in which he fights for his players. 1123836 Carolina Hurricanes

Predators claim Di Giuseppe on waivers from Canes

BY CHIP ALEXANDER JANUARY 01, 2019 12:43 PM

RALEIGH Phil Di Giuseppe is getting a new start with a different team in 2019. The Carolina Hurricanes placed the forward on NHL waivers Monday, and on Tuesday the Nashville Predators claimed him. A former second-round draft pick by Carolina, Di Giuseppe has never gained much traction in his NHL career. He has played 147 games for the Canes, 21 this season, and contributed 14 goals and 27 assists. Di Giuseppe, 25, had been a healthy scratch the past four games. His only goal this season came Nov. 8 at Chicago in a 4-3 win, and he had three assists. Di Giuseppe played college hockey at Michigan and his selection was nearly overlooked on his draft day in Pittsburgh in June 2012. It came the day after the Canes acquired Jordan Staal from the Penguins, sending Brandon Sutter, Brian Dumoulin and their first-round pick to Pittsburgh. Much of the buzz still centered on the blockbuster trade when Di Giuseppe was made the 38th pick. Di Giuseppe played 160 games for the Charlotte Checkers in the AHL from 2014 to 2018 and had 89 points (35 goals, 54 assists.) Di Giuseppe is the second Canes forward claimed on waivers this season. The Edmonton Oilers claimed Valentin Zykov on Nov. 30, played him in five games, then put him on waivers Dec. 28. He was claimed by the Vegas Golden Knights.

News Observer LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123837 Chicago Blackhawks beating Hawks goalie Cam Ward just under his pad. A Dominik Kahun tip with 8:36 left in the second period put the Hawks back on top 2-1.

About seven minutes later, Bergeron made the play of the game. With Despite Winter Classic loss, Blackhawks were able to play like a 1:12 left in the second, he found a soft spot in front of the net and scored champion at Notre Dame Stadium an equalizer past Ward after Hawks defenseman Brent Seabrook lost his stick. But the 33-year-old veteran center earned that goal by hustling to strip Kahun on a breakaway before doing his damage on the offensive David Haugh end. The game-winner came with 9:40 left when Bruins center Sean Kuraly knocked in a rebound after finding himself with too much room so close As serious as ever, Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews called playing to the crease. The ice seemed to tilt toward the Hawks goal for most of hockey at Notre Dame Stadium an honor. the third period as they killed three penalties, ceding momentum and exhausting energy that softened protection around the net. “I think it even exceeded my expectations,’’ Toews said Tuesday inside the home football locker room after the Bruins beat the Hawks 4-2 in the “That’s the stretch we were at our worst,” Colliton said. NHL’s annual Winter Classic. “This one is right at the top as far as outdoor games go.’’ It came at the end of a two-week stretch that finally saw the Hawks playing their best in this disappointing season, a 5-2 run everyone in the It marked the Hawks’ sixth game outdoors, but perhaps no other offered organization needed. General manager pulled off what the tradition that turned NHL players into tourists quite like this one did. looks like a smart trade over the weekend by unloading defenseman Toews referenced his soft spot for the movie “Rudy,” hardly a staple for Brandon Manning to the Oilers for promising forward Drake Caggiula. kids growing up in Winnipeg. Teammate Dylan Strome described getting Collin Delia, a 24-year-old goalie prospect, flashed signs of promise. And goosebumps skating onto the ice for “a moment I’ll always remember.” according to Toews, players get more comfortable with the 33-year-old Colliton every shift. Coach cut practice Monday to 30 minutes to give players as much time as possible to soak up the Notre Dame culture. Connor “We have our compass set right,” Toews said. Murphy, the most aptly named Hawk to skate in the home of the Fighting Irish — he was even born in Dublin, Ohio — said he arrived early to Despite a tough loss on a memorable day, the Hawks again look headed absorb the atmosphere. in the right direction. “I think I touched that ‘Champions’ sign about 10 times,” Murphy said. The famous Notre Dame sign — “Play Like A Champion Today” — hangs Chicago Tribune LOADED: 01.02.2019 on a wall in the tunnel players pass on their way to the field, just one of many sights and sounds that made Tuesday’s experience more indelible than the outcome for a Hawks team slowly regaining respectability. “It was disappointing because we did enough to deserve more,” Colliton said. “I’ve got no complaints with how hard we played.” Nor was anybody complaining about having to work on New Year’s Day. For the occasion, they remodeled the House That Rockne Built to build a hockey rink, and suddenly the famous mural on the became Slapshot Jesus. Nothing happened profound enough for anyone in the press box to mimic Grantland Rice — “Outlined against a blue-gray January sky, the Four Icemen rode again: Kane, Toews, Keith and Seabrook …” — but the historic meeting of the two Original Six teams was worth celebrating. A rousing rendition of the national anthem by Jim Cornelison shook the stadium as fans cheered through every stanza the way they do at the . Cornelison salvaged a pregame show that included the leprechaun mascot wiping out on the ice — the second-most embarrassing performance on national TV this week by someone in a Notre Dame uniform. Weezer performed during an intermission. Bulls center Robin Lopez braved the elements. Notre Dame football legends Tim Brown and Rocket Ismail signed autographs with a smile. A sellout crowd of 76,126 made the event the most attended game in Hawks history and the second-largest audience to watch an NHL game, quieting pre-holiday whispers about interest in the game. One pregame tailgate party broke into a chorus of “Bear Down, Chicago Bears.” After both Hawks goals, “” briefly replaced the Notre Dame Victory March as the local song of choice. Enough fans wore red sweaters to make this feel like a far eastern Chicago suburb. Mother Nature cooperated, too, something NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman attributed to all the good fathers on campus praying for overcast skies on the dry, 35-degree afternoon. “I thank Notre Dame for providing the divine inspiration of cloud cover,” said Bettman, who announced the Cotton Bowl in Dallas as the site of next year’s Winter Classic. “The weather was perfect.” The hockey itself was as imperfect as ever with the improving Hawks playing well enough to win against a Bruins team fighting for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Remember, this was the first day of 2019 and not the middle of June 2013, when all that separated the Hawks and Bruins were 17 seconds in the Stanley Cup Final. This was a national stage for two franchises trying to fight their way back to prominence. Brendan Perlini recorded the first hockey goal on the football ground at the 8:30 mark when he fired a shot from the slot past Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask. Nearly four minutes later, Bruins forward David Pastrnak tied it on a power play after gathering a Patrice Bergeron shot and 1123838 Chicago Blackhawks “It was our intention from the day we announced the game to bring the traditions of Notre Dame into our game presentation,” said Steve Mayer, the NHL’s chief content officer and executive vice president. 8 takeaways from the Blackhawks' 4-2 loss to the Bruins in the Winter 6. Almost a full house. Classic at Notre Dame Stadium There had been concern that the stadium would not nearly be full because of ticket prices ranging from $100 to $500, the Hawks’ poor start Tim Bannon to the season and the relatively early game time on New Year’s Day, two hours from Chicago. But the stadium was packed with a boisterous crowd, mostly Hawks fans. The Blackhawks lost to the Bruins 4-2 on Tuesday at Notre Dame The crowd was announced at 76,126, the second-largest for an NHL Stadium, the first hockey game there and only the second non-football game. (Capacity at Notre Dame Stadium is listed at 80,795.) The biggest sporting event. Here are eight takeaways from the 2019 Winter Classic: crowd for an NHL game was 104,173 at Michigan Stadium in 2014. 1. Conditions were ideal. 7. Next Winter Classic. On Monday, Notre Dame Stadium was a dismal place: rainy, misty and The NHL announced during the game that the next Winter Classic will be chilly but not really cold enough for ideal outdoor hockey. Temperatures Jan. 1, 2020, at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, with the Stars hosting a team hovered around 40. But Tuesday the rain stopped and the temperature to be determined. In case you were wondering, the weather at noon dropped to 34 at puck drop. Almost perfect conditions. The only thing Tuesday in Dallas was 40 degrees and cloudy. missing were light snow flurries. 8. Weezer? “It has been sensational,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said during the game. He thanked Notre Dame’s “divine inspiration of cloud cover” to Yes, Weezer, the subject of the best sketch on the Dec. 15 midseason prevent the disruptive glare on the ice. “It exceeded expectations,” finale for “Saturday Night Live.” In it, Matt Damon and Leslie Jones play Hawks captain Jonathan Toews said. neighbors arguing over the the band’s merits and whether, as Jones’ character says, “Real Weezer fans know that they haven’t had a good 2. Surprise, Cam Ward got the start. album since ‘Pinkerton!’ ” “Weezer?” Beck Bennett, playing another neighbor, chimes in. “I didn’t know they were still a band.” Rookie goalie Collin Delia had won his first three starts and seemed a strong possibility to start Tuesday. But he had never played on a stage Well, they are, and they performed next to the rink during the first as large as the Winter Classic, so Cam Ward, 34, got the start in goal. intermission on a stage shaped like the NHL logo. They opened with a cover of Toto’s “Africa.” “We’ve got a lot of confidence in him,” Colliton said before the game. And Ward played well, stopping 32 of 35 shots and making some big saves. After the game Colliton said of Ward: “He was good. Very good.” Despite the loss, Ward said of his Winter Classic experience: “It gave me Chicago Tribune LOADED: 01.02.2019 goosebumps from the beginning. This is an opportunity we’ll never forget.” 3. Power plays were the difference. The Bruins scored two of their goals with a man advantage. The Hawks failed to convert their four power-play opportunities. “We did enough to deserve more,” Colliton said. “We were aggressive and relentless in the second period. … We did a lot of good things.” Coming into Tuesday’s game, the Hawks had a 15.4 percent scoring percentage on power plays. Tuesday they managed six shots on goal when they had a man up. Overall, the Hawks outshot the Bruins 38-36. 4. So where does this Hawks outdoor game rank? Tuesday’s game was the Hawks’ sixth outdoor game, the most of any NHL team. They have won only one. Earlier this week, we ranked the previous five. Where does the game at Notre Dame Stadium fit in? 6. Wild 6, Blackhawks 1; Feb. 21, 2016, at TCF Bank Stadium (Stadium Series). 5. Blues 4, Blackhawks 1; Jan. 2, 2017, at Busch Stadium (Winter Classic). 4. Capitals 3, Blackhawks 2; Jan. 1, 2015, at Nationals Park (Winter Classic). 3. Blackhawks 5, Penguins 1; March 1, 2014, at (Stadium Series). 2. Bruins 4, Blackhawks 2; Jan. 1, 2019, at Notre Dame Stadium (Winter Classic). 1. Red Wings 6, Blackhawks 4; Jan. 1, 2009, at Wrigley Field (Winter Classic) 5. Football echoes. Notre Dame Stadium oozes football history and tradition. So the NHL and the Hawks were eager to celebrate those. Parading by the “Touchdown Jesus” mural on the university’s library, the team was escorted into the stadium by the Chicago Police Department’s Pipes & Drums Corps on Tuesday morning. And then as the players descended the steps from the home locker room to the rink, they passed and tapped the iconic “Play Like A Champion Today” sign, installed by football coach in 1986. “I must have touched that sign 10 times,” Connor Murphy said. Tim Brown, Notre Dame’s 1987 Heisman Trophy winner, dropped the ceremonial puck. 1123839 Chicago Blackhawks

Winter Classic games never get dull for Blackhawks

By Madeline Kenney @madkenney

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Hundreds of fans gathered in a courtyard to cheer on the Blackhawks as the team paraded into Notre Dame Stadium before their fourth Winter Classic game. Children sat on the shoulders of their parents. Fans pulled out their phones and tried to take photos of the team as it was escorted by the Pipes and Drums of the Chicago Police Department. The Hawks took the ice Tuesday for their sixth outdoor game in 10 years. Fans and players were as enthusiastic as they were for the Hawks’ first Winter Classic appearance a decade ago on New Year’s Day at Wrigley Field. “Today was fun,” captain Jonathan Toews said. “This one’s right at the top as far as how special it was.” But what made this one so special? It wasn’t the fact that the Hawks played in front of their largest crowd — a sell-out at 76,126 — but rather because they felt a connection with the storied tradition of Notre Dame football. “You’ve seen the movie ‘Rudy’ and seen the football games here,” said Toews, who took in his first Notre Dame game in 2015 while showing off the Stanley Cup. “I think any time Notre Dame’s on TV, the entire country’s watching. It’s just such a recognizable brand or symbol, I guess, and the Fighting Irish, so for us to come in here and take over their locker room and play a hockey game in their building, it’s an honor to be able to walk around here.” The Hawks lost 4-2 to the Bruins and fell to 1-5 in outdoor games, but the experience was still worthwhile for the players, especially the younger ones who hadn’t taken part in a Winter Classic. Defenseman Connor Murphy was buzzing with excitement before the game. As a Dublin, Ohio, native, he had several friends who were die- hard Notre Dame football fans. “Got here early,” he said. “I did a couple of laps back and forth, and I think I touched the ‘Play Like a Champion Today’ sign about 10 times just because it’s so cool.” Forward Dylan Strome said it was surreal to see how full the stadium was even during warmups. He also got goose bumps when Jim Cornelison sang the national anthem. ‘‘The crowd was yelling and cheering just like Chicago fans always do,” Strome said. “And you could barely hear the announcer, but you know exactly what was going on. It was an unbelievable experience. Wish we could’ve gotten the two points, but it’s something I’ll remember.” Coach Jeremy Colliton encouraged his players to embrace the moment and was happy with how the Hawks performed overall. “We wanted them to enjoy it,” Colliton said. “They’ve got family here, and this is a special, special event. It’s not going to happen again as far as right here, right now at Notre Dame. . . . I have no complaints with the heart we played with. We competed and just unfortunate that we couldn’t be celebrating a win here. But I thought we played hard.”

Chicago Sun Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123840 Chicago Blackhawks Colliton is resolute, though, and tried to recalibrate the Hawks’ perspective as soon as they arrived in South Bend. Steadiness is his defining characteristic, and he calmly explained Monday that a win or 2019 Winter Classic: Blackhawks lose to Bruins, but the charge is worth loss in the Winter Classic wouldn’t be the final word on their season. watching He thinks the Hawks are a good watch, too, despite the loss. He sees potential springing up all over the ice, and nothing about this game discouraged him. By Jason Lieser “Big picture, we’re still on the right path,” Colliton said. “Unfortunate that we didn’t get paid off more for the good things that we did. . . . Disappointing because I think we did enough to probably deserve more.” SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The Blackhawks are working their way back.

Not back to the splendor of their championship days, but back to being interesting. They grew into a compelling draw again leading up to the Chicago Sun Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 Winter Classic and took a tie game deep into the third period before falling 4-2 to the Bruins at Notre Dame Stadium. The crowd of 76,126 — the largest for a Hawks game and second-largest in NHL history — got the drama it wanted. It roared through a wild second period in which the Hawks dictated much of the action but couldn’t pull away. They faced down a frantic five-on- three penalty kill early in the third. And Jonathan Toews smacked one squarely off the post with about a minute left. They were in it, but an inch here or there cost them. It says something about where the Hawks are when a loss like this stings. There was a numbness when defeats piled up early in the season, but they felt this one. “It sucks we couldn’t get the win for our fans,” Toews said. “It’s a memorable moment for everybody, and you want to leave the game feeling a little bit better than we are right now, so it’s unfortunate.” It’s progress, nonetheless. Even with the loss, the Hawks are 6-3-1 in their last 10 games. It’s by far their best run of the season, and the feisty performance against Boston fits their recent arc of better play. They look like they can tangle with anyone on a given night. They’re not great, but they’re worth watching as they fight for the pipe dream of making the playoffs. Regardless of whether that’s possible or prudent, they intend to go for it. “We’re gonna keep building,” Toews said. “We’re getting to a point where we really know what works for us and what makes things difficult for other teams. It’s just finding that consistency, finding that maturity to play the right way at the right times.” The Hawks say they began striking that note before they started winning, but getting points makes it more believable. They climbed out of last place in the Central Division by winning five of six leading up to the Winter Classic. The aesthetics are better, too. Patrick Kane is finding a groove in the offense, players are incorporating coach Jeremy Colliton’s vision seamlessly and there’s never a sense that they’re outmanned. They start a stretch of five games against teams in the playoff field, beginning Thursday at the Islanders, and there’s no dread in their locker room. The attitude shifted. It’s no longer a title team trying to rekindle its dominance and lamenting that it can’t. The Hawks have more of a ‘‘Rudy’’ mindset, scrapping to prove they belong. Defenseman Connor Murphy described them as “almost a bit of an underdog team,” and it’s about time they embraced that no matter how strange it feels this soon after their powerhouse years. “It’s important for us to have that competitiveness and that edge and that confidence that no matter who we’re playing against . . . we can beat them,” Murphy said. “Having a younger team, guys have built confidence that way.” The young players shined on the big stage. Brendan Perlini broke through with the first goal, and defenseman Dominik Kahun put the Hawks up 2-1 midway through the second period. It turned on a penalty kill that went haywire in the final minutes of the second period. David Kampf raced off on a breakaway, seemingly headed for a short-handed goal that would’ve shaken the stadium, but Boston’s Patrice Bergeron chased him down to break it up, then scored 20 seconds later to tie it. Sean Kuraly cleaned up a rebound to put the Bruins ahead with 9:40 left, and Brad Marchand closed it out with an empty-netter. 1123841 Chicago Blackhawks

After difficult month, Brendan Perlini finds success with Blackhawks

By Madeline Kenney @madkenney

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — In the first period Tuesday of the Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium, David Kampf recovered the puck behind the Bruins’ net and centered it to Brendan Perlini. The pass set up Perlini perfectly for a one-timer, and he beat goalie Tuukka Rask for the first goal of the game. Perlini celebrated by plugging his ears as the crowd of 76,126 erupted into cheers. “It was a lot of fun,” Perlini said after the Hawks’ 4-2 loss. “It’s tough to describe. It was almost like going back to being a kid again.” Perlini’s goal was a sign that he’s getting more comfortable with his new team. The last month has been difficult for Perlini, whom the Hawks acquired from the Coyotes for Nick Schmaltz on Nov. 25. “[Going] from 80 degrees in the desert to big city and snow, it’s not exactly an easy transition,” Perlini said. “When you get traded, [it’s a] new city, new surroundings, living in a hotel, things like that. A lot of people think it’s instant success right away, and you know you have to turn your whole life around and go somewhere else.” Perlini, 22, doesn’t want sympathy. He said he thrives on adversity. “I enjoy being uncomfortable, to be honest,’’ Perlini said. ‘‘It’s a challenge to me. I can see where I can push myself in different directions and see how I can succeed from it.” After being practically nonexistent in his first nine games with the Hawks, Perlini has found success. Perlini has three goals and one assist in the last eight games. The 12th pick in the 2014 draft attributed his surge to being more familiar with his teammates. He also said he doesn’t feel pressure from more competition after the Hawks traded for Drake Caggiula. “I just come to the rink and work hard every day,” he said. “Regardless if they traded for [Sidney] Crosby, I’m just still going to work hard, do my thing and play.” Bettman betting on Dallas The NHL’s next Winter Classic will be its southernmost. The Dallas Stars will host the game at the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 1, 2020, commissioner Gary Bettman announced. Bettman did not specify the Stars’ opponent, but he said it’s unlikely it would be the Hawks or Bruins. There are several factors the league is looking into in considering who will play in the 2020 Winter Classic, including geography and rivalries. Bettman also said the NHL is looking at who will be a “compelling matchup” and draw local interest. Ward does his part After 14 seasons without the opportunity to play in a Winter Classic, Hawks goalie Cam Ward got the nod over Collin Delia and put up a strong fight, stopping 32 of 35 shots. Though the outcome didn’t go his way, Ward was grateful for the chance to play. “It gave me goose bumps right from the beginning when we walked in behind the marching band,” Ward said. “I thought that was really neat. This is an experience that nobody will ever forget. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially here at Notre Dame, and we enjoyed it.”

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2019 NHL Winter Classic: Bruins 4, Blackhawks 2

By Jason Lieser By Madeline Kenney @madkenney

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The luck of the Irish was not with the Blackhawks during Tuesday’s Winter Classic game at Notre Dame Stadium as the Bruins beat them 4-2. It was a ping-pong match of sorts. The Hawks scored first in the opening period. After David Kampf set him up from behind the net, Brendan Perlini sniped one past Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask. Perlini, who has notched one point in four of his last eight games, celebrated the goal by plugging his ears while the sold-out crowd of more than 76,000 roared. But the Hawks’ lead didn’t last long. After Artem Anisimov was called for tripping, David Pastrnak scored the equalizer on the Bruins’ power play. In the second period, Dominik Kahun broke the tie by redirecting Erik Gustafsson’s shot. The Hawks, who have a league-worst penalty kill percentage of 74.2, then gave up another power-play goal to the Bruins. Sean Kuraly scored off a rebound on his backhand and gave the Bruins their first lead of game with 9:40 left in regulation. The Bruins then put the game away with an open-net goal by Brad Marchand. Despite a solid effort, the Hawks couldn’t muster up another goal to force overtime. Cam Ward stopped 32 of the 35 shots he faced. The Hawks are now 1-5 in outdoor games since 2009.

Chicago Sun Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123843 Chicago Blackhawks

2020 NHL Winter Classic: Stars to host TBA opponent at Cotton Bowl Stadium

By Jason Lieser By Madeline Kenney @madkenney

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The NHL’s next Winter Classic will be its southernmost. The Dallas Stars will host the game at the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day 2020. Commissioner Gary Bettman made the official announcement during the second intermission of Tuesday’s game between the Blackhawks and Bruins at Notre Dame Stadium. He did not specify who the Stars’ opponent will be. The Hawks are often a candidate for the league’s outdoor games and have played in six since 2009. They remain one of the league’s top television draws. Asked if the Bruins or Hawks could be the Stars’ opponent, Bettman said: “Probably not. I don’t think … you would use a team two years in a row.” Bettman said there are several factors the league is looking into while considering who will play in the 2020 Winter Classic, including geographical and rivalry components. He also said the NHL is looking at who it believes will be a “compelling matchup” and draw local interest. Bettman announced a few other upcoming events: — There’s a 2020 Stadium Series game slated for the United Stats Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. The Avalanche will host a to- be-announced opponent. — The 2019-20 Heritage Classic will be Oct. 26 at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan, and feature the Winnipeg Jets against the Calgary Flames. — The 2020 All-Star Game will be in St. Louis. The Blues haven’t hosted that event since 1988.

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Next Winter Classic will be in Dallas, likely without the Blackhawks

John Dietz

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The NHL made several announcements for the league's showcase games in the coming year. Chief among them was the 2020 Winter Classic, which will be hosted by the Dallas Stars at the Cotton Bowl. No opponent has been named, but Commissioner Gary Bettman said it's very unlikely to be the Blackhawks or Bruins, who played Tuesday in the 2019 Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium. "As a general matter, you (don't) use a team two years in a row," Bettman said. According to Kyle Roberts of WFAA Channel 8 in Dallas, the city's average high temperature on Jan. 1 is 54.3 degrees. Measurable rain falls 25 percent of the time. The NHL also announced: • Calgary will face Winnipeg at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan in a Heritage Classic game on Oct. 26. • Colorado will host an NHL Stadium Series game at the U.S. Air Force Academy on Feb. 15, 2020. • The 2020 All-Star Game will be in St. Louis on Jan. 26, 2020. Scream and shout: Near the end of the second period of the Winter Classic on Tuesday, Jonathan Toews was sitting on the edge of the Blackhawks bench, adamantly arguing with referee Francis Charron. Toews' arms were waving over and over as he screamed at Charron for nearly a minute. "We got a penalty in the third that was -- as we call it -- the old can opener," Toews said. "Guy gets his stick tangled up in your arms and opens you wide up. We took a penalty like that in the third and I thought there was a couple that looked like that in the second, so I got a little fired up there. … "I think we both -- or at least I -- cooled down a little bit in the third there, so it was all good." Slap shots: With an assist on Dominik Kahun's second-period goal, Jonathan Toews (2G, 5A in 6 games) tied Henrik Zetterberg (7 assists in 4 games) for most points in outdoor games. … Road teams are now 16-8-2 in the NHL's 26 outdoor games. … John Hayden and Chris Kunitz were the Blackhawks' healthy scratches. … Connor Murphy had 6 hits and 3 blocked shots in 18:09 TOI for the Hawks. … Brent Seabrook had 4 giveaways and was a minus-1 in 15:35. … David Pastrnak had a goal and assist for Boston, giving him 24 goals and 26 assists on the season. … Tuesday's crowd of 76,126 was the second-largest for an outdoor game in NHL history, behind the 105,491 who packed Michigan Stadium on Jan. 1, 2014, for a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings.

Daily Herald Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123845 Chicago Blackhawks "Initially, we thought our kids were going to play their kids," Babcock said, "but (Joel) Quenneville told me that Toews and (Patrick) Kane are their kids, and I thought that was too big an advantage." Rozner: Notre Dame was the real star of this Winter Classic From so long ago to the present, the NHL -- for all of its inability to get the simplest tasks completed -- does the Winter Classic well, and with the Hawks involved you could see John McDonough's fingerprints all Barry Rozner over it. The names of Hull, Mikita, Esposito and Savard were well-represented before, during and after the game, as were Orr, Bucyk, Bourque and SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The trick was to view this as the event that it was, Shore. not through the lens of a hockey season. Plenty of old-time hockey in the introductions and around the rink, eight Or a rebuild. Or a reload. Or however one identifies the current Boston and Chicago players showcased on individual shamrocks Blackhawks trial. surrounding the ice surface. This Winter Classic was set, after all, in one of the world's great sporting When the current players made their way into the stadium for the first venues, Notre Dame Stadium, home of the Fighting Irish Football team, time, they were greeted by several Irish football greats, including replete with a glorious view of Touchdown Jesus and the Golden Dome, Heisman Trophy winner and Hall of Famer Tim Brown. with all the spirit of the present and the ghosts of legends past. Four hours before the game, the Hawks were ushered into the arena by If your argument is for Wrigley Field and the Classic held 10 years ago the CPD Pipes & Drums corps, and Hawks players were met by fans on Tuesday, few would disagree, but this was brilliant, the white of the ice Hesburgh Library Mall. up against the blue seats of the ancient football stadium. Pregame intros were set to the Notre Dame fight song, courtesy of the Rather than traditional Notre Dame gold and blue jerseys, or the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, which also performed the anthem as preferred green and gold, there was the black and yellow "B" of the four A-10 Thunderbolts completed a flyover. Bruins and the famous Hawks crest dressed in black. "Got here early, did a couple of laps back and forth, and I think I touched If the two hockey clubs had gone with more traditional Original Six the 'Play Like A Champion' sign about 10 times just because it's so cool," uniforms, no one would have balked, but then there wouldn't be all those said Hawks defenseman Connor Murphy. "We're really lucky to have extra sweaters to sell. gotten this experience." Nevertheless, it was splendid. All of it. The game, the crowd, the Clouds and 35-degree temps made for excellent hockey weather and atmosphere. good ice conditions allowed for a well-played contest. There can't be a more impressive campus, especially if you have a But 10 years after Wrigley Field, the star was the stadium at Notre Dame. history, though mine goes back a long way, from summers of hockey camp at ages 9 and 10. As the Hawks and the NHL dream of new concepts, this one will be difficult to top. Run by the great Lefty Smith, the late Irish coach who has a rink named after him a few hundred yards away, with help from Notre Dame star Kevin Hoene, the memories remain fresh -- and painful. Daily Herald Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 Part of our training over two weeks -- when we weren't on the ice -- was running the football stadium steps. Up all the way, down all the way, each of 36 sections a load, each step a small torture. By the end of two weeks, we were told, we must be able to finish the entire stadium. It never occurred to us that if we didn't, there wouldn't be consequences. We lived in the dorms and played basketball at The Bookstore, but most important we learned the game, a game played above the football stadium turf Tuesday in front of a huge crowd. Walking down the stairs toward the ice pregame on New Year's was not at all painful, just an opportunity to witness the pageantry. Secondary was the match, but not for the coaches, Boston's Bruce Cassidy needing precious points as the Bruins remain in the playoff race while fighting injuries, and the Hawks' Jeremy Colliton was on a 6-2-1 run heading in, a stretch of good hockey that really goes back a month since getting blown out by Vegas. You could have made the case that the Hawks didn't need the distraction of this oddity while playing their best hockey of the year, but Colliton understood the opportunity, despite a 4-2 loss to the Bruins in front of 76,126. "I accept how great this event is," Colliton said. "We are playing well and we have a lot of good energy here, and I don't think the result today is going to affect that. "Big picture, we're still on the right path. We can use this as just another experience as far as building our team and getting where we want to be." In a 2-2 game after two, the Hawks played the first 8 minutes of the third in their own end, and after killing three straight penalties -- including a 5- on-3 -- they never got it going again. "Falling short doesn't feel good," said Hawks captain Jonathan Toews, who's played in four of these Classic games. "But today was fun. This one is right at the top as far as special goes." Toews was all of 20 years old the first time the Hawks did this. That team was so young that Detroit coach Mike Babcock joked about an actual game that was supposed to take place between the children of both teams. 1123846 Chicago Blackhawks

Blackhawks' Ward very grateful for his Winter Classic start

John Dietz

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Cam Ward's been in the NHL for 14 years. He's won 324 games and hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2006 with the Carolina Hurricanes. So one might think a grizzled veteran like the 34-year-old netminder might shrug his shoulders if he was passed over for the red-hot Collin Delia when the Blackhawks hosted the Boston Bruins in the Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium on Tuesday. But that wasn't at all the case. "I was extremely excited and also thankful at the same time," Ward said when coach Jeremy Colliton delivered the news that he would be starting. "I know that wasn't an easy decision because Collin's been playing so great. That's a credit to Collin that it was that difficult of a decision. "But I've been in this league for 14 years and never able to play in a Winter Classic." Ward made 32 saves in the Blackhawks' 4-2 loss. His performance early on was particularly impressive as he stopped a point-blank shot by David Krejci in the opening minute and also batted a puck out of the crease before the game was two minutes old. Ward also kept it a 1-goal game by turning away a Sean Kuraly breakaway attempt with 2:47 remaining. "He made a couple big saves to allow us to get into the game," Colliton said. "He was good all night." Because Delia (3-0-0, .957 save percentage, 1.66 goals-against average) has been so good since being called up in the wake of Corey Crawford's injury, many thought he earned the right to start. But Colliton said he trusts Ward, and he also doesn't want Delia to feel too much pressure too soon. "We take him out and he can sit on a positive performance for a few days and sort of consolidate," Colliton said. "Hopefully when he gets back in, he's going to maintain his level. If he plays every night for a long period, it makes it harder on him." As for Ward, who is approaching his 700th regular-season game, he said he definitely felt pressure to perform on such a big stage. "Sure. When you're playing in front of 80,000 fans, you don't want to put up a stinker," Ward said. "I think you just try to approach it like any other game -- as cliché as that is. "Right from the get-go, it brought you back to your childhood. It was easy to have fun and enjoy it because you felt it was that special. … "It gave me goosebumps right from the beginning when we walked in behind the marching band. I thought that was really neat. "This is an experience that nobody will ever get. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity, especially here at Notre Dame and I certainly enjoyed it."

Daily Herald Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123847 Chicago Blackhawks

Winter Classic loss hurts, but Blackhawks remain encouraged by bigger picture

By Charlie Roumeliotis January 01, 2019 5:30 PM

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The Blackhawks went into the 2019 Winter Classic having won five of their past six games and earning 13 out of a possible 18 points in their previous nine. They were feeling good about themselves. They still are. A 4-2 loss to the Boston Bruins at Notre Dame Stadium on New Year's Day doesn't exactly change that. It actually reaffirms it by the way the Blackhawks played against one of the top Eastern Conference teams. They competed hard and looked like the better team for the majority of the game, but penalties cost them and it was one of those days where the Bruins bent but didn't break. It's hard to see the bigger-picture positives in the immediate aftermath, and certainly tough to accept after you play in a spectacle like the Winter Classic, but the Blackhawks did and remain encouraged by their progress. "We’ve been in almost every game recently and had a stretch of wins," Connor Murphy said. "It’s important for us to have that competitiveness and that edge and that confidence that no matter who we’re playing against or what players we're out against, whatever lines they have, that we can beat them. And I think having a younger team, guys have built confidence that way and feeling like they’re a big part of the team to contribute to more wins." The disappointment really comes at the fact the Blackhawks couldn't get a win to top off the spectacular event in a perfect manner for Chicago fans. A victory makes looking back on the day much more memorable when for the 76,126 fans in attendance, and for everyone involved — players, coaches, front office members, etc. — when you're the home team. On the hockey side of things, the Blackhawks are going to keep trucking along and continue to build on the culture they're creating. Because they really have come a long way in a short amount of time. "We’re gonna keep building," Jonathan Toews said. "I think our confidence is building. We’re getting to a point where we really know what works for us and what makes things difficult for other teams. It’s just finding that consistency, finding that maturity to play the right way at the right times. The more we keep ourselves in games, the more we’re gonna have chances to take over and get two points.”

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123848 Chicago Blackhawks The 34-year-old goaltender turned aside 32 of 35 shots and had a high- danger save percentage of .917 save during 5-on-5 play. He was arguably Chicago's best player. 10 takeaways from Winter Classic: Blackhawks put on show, but outdoor "It would've been a lot sweeter if we got the victory in a game that was struggles continue real close both ways," Ward said. "It could've gone either way, it's unfortunate that you come up short. You definitely want to walk away with a win and give the fans what they want, but I thought we played well. By Charlie Roumeliotis "Just an unbelievable experience, I'm really thankful I got the opportunity January 01, 2019 4:45 PM to do it and you're just disappointed that you don't come away with the win."

6. Jonathan Toews ties all-time points leader in outdoor games SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Here are 10 takeaways from the Blackhawks' 4-2 loss to the Boston Bruins in the 2019 Winter Classic at Notre Dame With a secondary assist on Dominik Kahun's goal, the Blackhawks Stadium on New Year's Day: captain climbed up the outdoor rankings with seven points in six career games outside. Only Henrik Zetterberg has as many points as Toews all- 1. Blackhawks remain winless in Winter Classic games time in outdoor events. Going into Tuesday, the Blackhawks were 1-4-0 in outdoor games and 0- 7. Sellout crowd for-3 in the Winter Classic. They really wanted to turn that stat around and give fans something excited about on the ride home. The atmosphere at Notre Dame Stadium was incredible. Fans were into the game all day long, and it made for a terrific environment. But they couldn't exercise their outdoor demons as the Bruins scored the go-ahead goal to break a 2-2 tie with 9:40 left in regulation and it held up There were 76,126 fans in attendance, a sellout crowd that is the as the game winner. second-largest in NHL history and first in Blackhawks history. "In the big picture, I thought we did a lot of good things," coach Jeremy "I wanted to soak it all in and enjoy it, and it gave me goosebumps right Colliton said. "Second period I thought we were aggressive and from the beginning when we walked in behind the marching band," Ward relentless and hard-working and probably deserved better than we got. said. "I thought that was really neat. This is an experience that nobody Unfortunate to come out of the period 2-2. Big picture, we're still on the will ever get. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity, especially here at Notre right path. Unfortunate that we didn't get paid off more for the good things Dame, and we enjoyed it." that we did. We had a little lull there in the third and we end up going down. Then it's hard. We're chasing from then on. Disappointing because 8. Gary Bettman compliments Blackhawks I think we did enough to probably deserve more." The Blackhawks aren't expected to get an outdoor game next season as 2. Too many penalties the NHL prefers to avoid giving teams one in consecutive seasons, but when the NHL commissioner spoke to the media during second The Blackhawks were certainly the better team through two periods of intermission he had nothing but positive things to say about the play. In the second period alone, they outshot the Bruins 16-10 and organization and fanbase, and how far they've come. generated 19 scoring chances at even strength compared to Boston's six. "The Hawks in their current form — and I mean that over the last decade, particularly since has been running the club with John But the Bruins scored a late power-play goal — their second of the game McDonough — Chicago has always been a hockey city and passionate — with 1:12 left in the period to tie it at 2-2, which was a killer considering about the Blackhawks," Bettman said. "Even in the down years, people the Blackhawks had dictated the pace of play to that point. were just waiting for the opportunity to come back and I think there's no doubt that as not only one of the Original Six franchises, the Blackhawks And in the third period, the Blackhawks committed three penalties in the are a storied franchise, great tradition, great former players who are still opening 4:56. To their credit, they shut the door on all of them, but too active with the club and great, great fans. You see the reaction. And you much time was wasted trying to kill them off. know what? The team's playing better." "You never want to take penalties on their half of the rink," Colliton said. 9. Winter Classic first-timers "It's not something we want to do. We killed the penalties in the third, we give up 2 in the first two penalties. But we killed the penalties, we killed The Blackhawks have appeared in six outdoor games. The Bruins have the 5-on-3. At that point you feel like, 'OK, we came through this. And appeared in four. But 26 of the 40 players that dressed on Tuesday were we're going to get some energy out it.' But that's the stretch where we participating in an outdoor game for the first time, which says a lot about were at our worst — those four, five minutes after we got to even the state of the NHL. strength, we just couldn't get playing again. They scored before we could get it turned around." "This is a young man's league and it's changing every year," Bowman said. "There's more young players playing big roles on their teams. Some 3. Striking first again teams, 19-year-old players are their best players, so when that happens there's obviously cause and effect, and the guys that are moving out of For the sixth straight game, the Blackhawks scored the first goal. And the game are the older players, so teams are skewing younger. When that has usually ends well for teams that do so in outdoor games. that happens it's also harder to keep teams together year after year, the way the system we play under. In the previous 12 outdoor games, teams that scored first were 10-1-1 — and 15-7-3 all-time. This was the second time in the 13 such games that "The younger players they obviously have speed and skill in abundance, a team lost in regulation when scoring first. and those are the things that tend to wear down when you get into your 30s and that's probably why the league is skewing younger. But I think 4. Home team win streak ends there's never been a better time to be an NHL fan. The product on the ice Another thing the Blackhawks had going for them was that home teams is outstanding. For new fans to the game, to watch the game of hockey in the past six outdoor games were 5-0-1. The Blackhawks played really now, when you see these young guys, they're electrifying players and it well and deserved at least a point, but couldn't crack Tuukka Rask for the makes it fun to watch." equalizer as the Bruins netminder finished with 36 saves on 38 shots for 10. Wounded Warriors skate with Blackhawks a .947 save percentage. The day before the Winter Classic, the Blackhawks got a chance to skate "It sucks we couldn't get the win for our fans," Jonathan Toews said. "It's with the Wounded Warriors, a group of wounded military personnel, a memorable moment for everybody and you want to leave the game which is something the organization does annually. It was a neat idea to feeling a little bit better than you are right now. It's unfortunate, but it is a have them participate in the Winter Classic festivities and have them be a special opportunity to play in this building. It even exceeded my part of the experience as well. expectations. Just so much excitement to be out there and start that game. We all really enjoyed it." "It's awesome," Alex DeBrincat said. "I mean, those guys are heroes and they're heroes to us. So it's definitely cool to be able to skate with them 5. Cam Ward's solid effort and maybe help their day. They brightened our day, so hopefully we did When Ward was announced the Winter Classic starter and not Collin the same for them. It was just a fun time." Delia, it didn't sit well with fans that thought the 24-year-old rookie had deserved the net. But as a sign of respect to the 14-year veteran, the Blackhawks gave Ward the start and he was terrific all afternoon. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123849 Chicago Blackhawks good shifts. We were putting a lot of pressure on them, and we had our chances. Unfortunately, didn’t get the win. Let’s move on now.”

What the Blackhawks need is for Perlini to carry this performance as he Brendan Perlini shows what he’s capable of during Winter Classic moves on. His play Tuesday is what they were hoping he’d bring in the trade. He has speed and can be aggressive on the forecheck. He has a quick and hard shot and can get it on net. He definitely has some tools to By Scott Powers be useful in a lineup and could provide the Blackhawks another depth option. Jan 1, 2019 With the recent addition of Drake Caggiula, who has yet to join the team due to visa issues, Colliton is going to have to make some decisions among his forwards. Like Perlini, Caggiula will also likely figure into the SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Brendan Perlini has been underwhelming to the Blackhawks’ bottom six, and that means Perlini, and others say least since arriving to the Blackhawks. will be competing for spots. Sikura and Perlini were noticeable on Nick Schmaltz and Dylan Strome were the main pieces to the Tuesday. Blackhawks-Coyotes trade in late November, but Perlini was supposed to Perlini downplayed another forward being add to the mix. He said it be the player who would tip the scales in the Blackhawks’ favor. The wasn’t going to affect how he approached anything. thought was they were getting two NHL contributors for the price of one. “I just come to the rink and work hard every day and do my things The Blackhawks were banking on Perlini’s 31 goals over his first 131 regardless if they traded for (Sidney) Crosby,” Perlini said. “I’m still going NHL games not being a fluke, and hoping a change in scenery would to work hard and do my thing and play.” reignite him after a slow start to his third NHL season in Arizona. On Tuesday, Perlini did his thing. Now it’s up to him to continue doing it. But Perlini’s game didn’t spark when he landed in Chicago even though he was given a grand opportunity to play a top-six role. He’d show off his speed and his shooting ability here and there, but more often he was found standing on the ice when the opposing team had scored. He was The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 on the ice for 11 goals against in 5-on-5 play during his first 10 games. It didn’t help he had just one goal and no assists during that span. Plus, Blackhawks coach Jeremy Colliton wasn’t pleased and made him a healthy scratch for a game during that stretch. It wasn’t the start the Blackhawks or Perlini imagined, and it cast some doubt on whether Perlini would be a good fit going forward. With his contract coming up after the season, the Blackhawks have to be assessing whether it makes sense to re-sign him. The Blackhawks moved on from Anthony Duclair a year ago when he didn’t perform as expected after acquiring him mid-season. (It is worth noting Duclair’s qualifying offer was steeper than what Perlini will have to be paid as a restricted free agent.) Perlini worked to stay confident. He believed his game would come around. It was just a matter of time. Colliton was optimistic too, though he did drop Perlini in the lineup and played him mostly on the fourth line. In Perlini’s 14th game with the Blackhawks, he showed some life. He attempted five shots, put four of them on net and was rewarded with an empty-net goal to secure a win over Dallas. He and his line struggled the next game. A game later, he had his best possession game with the Blackhawks and tallied an assist. After two more so-so games, Perlini took the ice for the Winter Classic on Tuesday. Overall, his play had been better as of late, but the feeling was he still had more to give. He had 22 games of three or more shots with the Coyotes last season. He hadn’t shown much of that with the Blackhawks so far. On the biggest stage of the season and surrounded by shamrocks, Perlini, an Englishman, played his best game of the season for the Blackhawks. Before an announced crowd of 76,126 at Notre Dame Stadium, Perlini scored the game’s first goal and had chances to score a few more. He had four shots on net and a total of seven shot attempts. He spent time with the third and fourth lines and had a 68.42 Corsi percentage, his second highest since joining the Blackhawks. A win would have made Perlini’s day complete, but he wasn’t complaining. His first outdoor game experience was mostly magical. “It was awesome,” Perlini said. “It was probably one of the most funnest experiences playing hockey, to be honest. I don’t know, it’s tough to describe. It’s like going back and playing like a kid again, you know? Everything (stood out). I tried to soak everything in. I know quite a few of these guys got the chance to play in these games, but you never know in your career. It’s a privilege to play in one of these and just try to soak it all in and have a lot of fun. I think there was a smile on my face the whole game. I was happy to get one as well.” Perlini’s goal came at 8:30 of the first period. David Kampf won the puck behind the Bruins’ net and found Perlini waiting in the slot. Perlini made no mistake and beat Tuukka Rask. He had a similar opportunity that he couldn’t convert when he was on the ice with the second line later in the period. “I had some really good chances, even one right after that I had a one- timer,” Perlini said. “He got a piece of that one. Our line was buzzing all night, to be honest. … First and second (periods), we had some really 1123850 Chicago Blackhawks That extends to the head coach, too. Colliton was put into a very difficult position — handed a mess of a roster that even Joel Quenneville couldn’t win with, and told to turn it into a playoff team — and his smooth Lazerus: After miserable two months, Blackhawks finding fun – and demeanor started to fray at the edges a bit. With a slightly revamped meaning – in games again roster and a bunch of wins under his belt, Colliton feels a little lighter these days, too.

What made that second losing streak particularly frustrating was the By Mark Lazerus manner in which the Blackhawks kept losing — falling behind early, clawing their way back, and coming up just short, night after night. Finally Jan 1, 2019 getting rewarded for their gradually improved play makes it a lot easier to come to the rink every day. With those initial changes now muscle

memory, Colliton can start adding more and more tweaks every day. SOUTH BEND, Ind. — You can’t get more Irish than a guy named “It’s easier, for sure,” Colliton said. “We’re trying to develop as a group, Connor Murphy from Dublin, so Tuesday’s Winter Classic — with eight and it’s easier to ask things of the players when they’re getting some massive shamrocks surrounding a rink with a shamrock at center ice — positive reinforcement with results. It’s hard; you end up grinding guys was particularly magical for the Blackhawks defenseman. down when you’re losing, if you keep asking them to change things and OK, so Murphy is from Dublin, Ohio, not Dublin, Ireland. But still. He was do more and do more. It’s a lot easier when you’re winning.” dragged into Notre Dame fandom early by a childhood friend and even Confidence matters, too. And the Blackhawks finally have some. Strome took in a football game earlier this season during his rehab from a back pointed out that the Blackhawks were “one of the top teams in the injury. league” over the past 10 games. But actually playing at Notre Dame Stadium? Lacing up in the Fighting “We’ve been in almost every game recently, and had a stretch of wins,” Irish locker room? Making the traditional “player walk” into the stadium? Murphy said. “It’s important for us to have that competitiveness, and that Come on. How great is that? edge, and that confidence that no matter who we’re playing against, or “Got here early, and I did a couple of laps back and forth,” Murphy said. “I what players we’re out against — whatever lines they have — that we think I touched the ‘Play Like A Champion’ sign about 10 times, just can beat them.” because it’s so cool.” They couldn’t beat the Bruins. Not with Patrice Bergeron tracking down Yes, the Blackhawks lost on Tuesday, 4-2 to the Boston Bruins. It’s what David Kampf on a shorthanded breakaway and turning it into a power- they do in outdoor games, dropping to 1-5 all-time (Good news: Gary play goal the other way. Not with the Blackhawks having to kill three Bettman said during the second intermission that the Blackhawks likely penalties in the third period without a power play of their own. Not with will get a season of 82 indoor games next season; how novel). Toews hitting the post on a golden chance with about 90 seconds left in the game. But yes, the Blackhawks had fun on Tuesday. They’re allowed to again. After the two most miserable months in recent Blackhawks history — But it was a game the Blackhawks could have won. A game they needed featuring two separate eight-game losing streaks, the firing of a beloved to win. And less than a month ago, you couldn’t have said either of those and iconic coach, and a freefall to dead last in the 31-team league — the things on any given night. Blackhawks are competitive again. They entered 2019 having won five of “It’s only one game,” Strome said. “One game, two points. We can get it their last six, and were 6-2-1 since the second eight-game losing skid back Thursday.” (the third such skid of the year, if you count the one in February). A playoff berth remains a long shot — The Athletic’s model gave them a 7 At the very least, the games matter again. At the very least, the percent chance of making the postseason as of Tuesday morning, up Blackhawks are having fun again. from 1 percent not too long ago — but it’s a little less unfathomable than it was just three weeks ago. And after a truly miserable couple of months, that’s as novel as any outdoor game could ever be. Jeremy Colliton’s system is settling in. Dylan Strome has stabilized the top six with his strong play. An infusion of youth and speed has helped in the bottom six and the back end. Collin Delia has been a revelation in goal, and Cam Ward has played three excellent games (Tuesday very The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 much included) in his last four outings. Henri Jokiharju’s return from the World Juniors will only help, as struggling Gustav Forsling figures to get sent back to Rockford for further seasoning. The light at the end of the tunnel might be far, far off. But at least it’s there now. For a while, it was just pitch black in all directions. “We have our compass set right, as far as what works for us and what our team game’s supposed to look like, and we’re building on that consistency,” Jonathan Toews said after the game. “That’s huge for us. And some nights, pucks aren’t going to go in, or you’re not going to get the two points or the results you want. But if we keep doing things right, we just keep upping the odds of (winning) every night.” That Tuesday’s loss felt somehow important — that those two points could prove costly — is evidence of how far the Blackhawks have come in just a few short weeks. They’re eight points out of a wild-card spot, but nearly every team in the Western Conference has two or three games in hand on them. It’s going to take some sort of ridiculous stretch — like winning 11 of 12 — to get back into the mix. So a win on Tuesday mattered. A month ago, it seemed like nothing mattered. Every night was another frustration, another misery, another torturous stop in a death march of a season. That’s the atmosphere Strome and Brendan Perlini walked into when they were acquired from Arizona. And while Perlini insisted the Blackhawks stayed as upbeat as possible during those trying times, saying the veterans did a good job of “policing everything and making sure everyone is kept accountable and positive,” there’s clearly been a weight off the Blackhawks’ shoulders of late. “It’s a lot better,” Strome said. “The guys were still positive then, but we wanted to break out of it. It’s a lot more fun to be around everyone when you’re winning.” 1123851 Colorado Avalanche

Avalanche to host NHL outdoor game at Air Force Academy in 2020

By THE DENVER POST | [email protected] January 1, 2019 at 1:47 PM

The Avalanche will serve as host to an outdoor game at the Air Force Academy on Feb. 15, 2020, the league announced Tuesday. The Avs’ opponent will be announced at a later time. It will be the second NHL outdoor game in Colorado, as the As hosted the Red Wings at in 2016. It will be the first outdoor game at Air Force and the second to be held at a United States service academy. “We are proud and honored to be hosting the 2020 NHL Stadium Series at such a unique setting as the Air Force Academy,” said Avalanche president Josh Kroenke in a statement. “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to host an outdoor game at the historic Air Force Academy,” said Avs general manager Joe Sakic. “We are grateful for the chance to honor our military and our local U.S. service academy with a special event. Having this game in Colorado Springs also highlights the growth of hockey throughout the Rocky Mountain region since the Avalanche arrived in 1995. ” Information regarding ticket pricing and availability will be announced at a later date. Avalanche 2019-20 full season and partial plan members will have access to presale opportunities.

Denver Post: LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123852 Colorado Avalanche New Year’s Eve provided Bednar with another example — and ammunition — he can use in his latest film session.

Mikko Rantanen, who had an assist, was near the end of his shift when And the team with the most OT losses in the NHL? Yep. It’s the Kings winger Dustin Brown made his way onto the ice. Initially, Rantanen Avalanche was within a stick’s length of Brown, but he continued to skate toward the Avalanche’s bench. By Ryan S. Clark This was a detail Muzzin noticed. He also picked up on how Gabriel Landeskog, who replaced Rantanen on the shift, was several feet away Jan 1, 2019 from Brown. Muzzin came from behind the Kings’ net and delivered a stretch pass to Brown, who was alone at the blueline.

“Mikko changes and their guy’s in behind him and we’re late coming on Five in a row. That’s where things stand with the Avalanche on their and it’s in the back of our net,” Bednar said. “You can’t let guys get in current losing streak. It’s the second time this season they’ve lost a behind you 3-on-3, or they’re going to score. That’s it. You cover off a consecutive quintet of contests. guy in the offensive zone and there’s a loose puck battle or a 50-5o puck and he leaves — you have to leave with him or they’re going to score. Such a sequence naturally generates questions about what’s going wrong. Initially, third-year Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said he did not “If they win the battle, they shoot it out anywhere on the ice, they’re going see any major problems other than intensity in his team’s 3-2 overtime to score.” loss Monday to the Kings at Pepsi Center. Landeskog was forced to make a diving attempt at stopping the pass Eventually, the postgame discussion veered toward the Avalanche’s only to have the puck sneak through. Brown received possession, which overtime problems and Bednar started opening up. And with good left Landeskog and Erik Johnson both trying to chase him down only to reason. OK, more like eight reasons. The Avs are 1-8 when they go still fall well short of trying to stop him. beyond regulation, and that is the most defeats of any team in the NHL this season. It led to Brown getting on a breakaway and quickly closing in on Varlamov for the eventual game-winning goal. All but one of those losses have come in overtime itself. The Avalanche’s lone shootout loss came Oct. 16 to the Rangers at Madison Square “(Rantanen’s) slow on the change, so Landy can’t get back there. It’s too Garden. late,” Bednar said. “Johnson was already on. He gets caught a little bit wide, so you can slide it a little bit. You’re basically man-on-man and we “What bothers me is if you look at the goals that we’ve given up in have a specific system we play but we want to make sure at least our D overtime, it’s sometimes, it’s mind-blowing,” Bednar said. “I look at them is back. He’s watching a guy on the left, but a guy steps out on the bench and go, ‘What are we supposed to do there?’ There’s always someone on the right and he’s in behind him. making a major mistake, and it ends up in the back of the net.” “You may have to suffer through a long shift until you get a chance to Gaining a full understanding of Bednar’s frustration involves reviewing make a change. Those mental mistakes; it’s a mental focus. It’s hoping what has gone wrong in the extra frame for the Avalanche this season. for offense and you gotta defend before you go play offense. You gotta defend and take the puck away from someone.” Colorado’s first loss came Oct. 13 when Erik Johnson was left on an island to fight off two Calgary skaters, which led to Johnny Gaudreau Colorado entered the New Year in third place in the Central Division getting on a breakaway and scoring in a 3-2 loss at Pepsi Center. behind Winnipeg and Nashville. The Jets did lose three of their last five before beating the Oilers earlier Monday. The Predators were on a six- Loss No. 2 was a result of Alexander Kerfoot being penalized and game skid until they broke through for a 6-3 win against the Capitals Vancouver scoring a power play goal in a 7-6 defeat at Rogers Arena. hours before the Avalanche fell to the Kings. Loss No. 3 also came via the power play. Washington carried the man Winnipeg holds a six-point lead over Colorado, while Nashville has a two- advantage from regulation. That led to Nicklas Backstrom getting a clear, point edge. Anaheim and Dallas have the wild-card spots and both are open look from the low point and firing off a slap shot for a 3-2 loss at within two points of Colorado, with several teams either getting close to Pepsi Center. or already at the 41-game mark. Loss No. 4? St. Louis chipped the puck out of its zone leaving Samuel The Avalanche’s five-game losing streak has added to what’s been a Girard to fend off a surging Colton Parayko, who used his reach to poke woeful last 10 contests. They are 2-5-3, and it is the second-poorest possession away and get enough separation for the game-winner in a 3- contemporary mark in the NHL behind the Red Wings, who are 1-6-3. 2 loss at Pepsi Center. Go back to Dec. 9. That’s when The Athletic‘s point projection and playoff “I remember that game against St. Louis, and I needed to have better model estimated the Avalanche would finish 45-26-11 with 100 points position against him,” Girard said. “I know that he’s a big guy, and he’s and have a 92 percent chance of making the Stanley Cup Playoffs. got a longer reach than me. So, I need to have better position in front of him and to make sure that he is not taking the middle like he did.” Fast forward to Dec. 30. That day’s updated model hypothesized the Avalanche could end the regular season with a 42-28-12 mark while Loss No. 5 was also at the hands of St. Louis more than two weeks later. having an 83 percent chance to reach the postseason for a second This time, Colorado was on the power play when Tyson Barrie’s shot in consecutive year. the high slot was blocked. It led to Ryan O’Reilly getting the puck and scoring on a breakaway goal for a 4-3 loss at the Enterprise Center. “That could be the difference between getting in the playoffs and not getting in the playoffs. It’s big points. It’s big points,” Bednar said of the Loss No. 6 was a result of yet another team getting on the power play. overtime losses. “I give our team all the credit in the world for fighting Chicago was on a 4-on-3 when Jonathan Toews, who was left of the net, back again tonight, fighting back the other night. It was not easy for us. gained control of a loose puck from an oncoming attempt on net. All three It’s hasn’t been an easy stretch for us. Colorado skaters were paying attention to Toews, which allowed Patrick Kane to slip through undetected for a goal and a 3-2 loss for the Avs at “To stay with it, come back from 0-2 in both of those games is great. It Pepsi Center. starts to show you a little bit about what we can do. You gotta find a way to close out the games. It’s a good point, but you gotta find a way to Colorado, which had nine overtime losses in 82 games last season, held close it out.” at least one-goal leads in four of those would-be losses. Also, three of those goals came within the first minute of overtime. Philipp Grubauer has taken the loss in three of those games. Semyon The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Varlamov, who started against Los Angeles on Monday, was in net for the remaining four. “I mean, it’s kind of a tight game and it can go each way,” Girard said of getting into overtime. “I think it starts with the faceoffs. The first faceoff, I think, allows you to control the puck right away and to have the control of the OT. “Yesterday, it was a great pass by (Kings defenseman Jake Muzzin) and we’re going to have to figure out how to win those games in OT.” 1123853 Colorado Avalanche clearly want to sign Rantanen while the player has made it known, “I’m happy in Colorado. I want to be here for a long time.” Now it’s just a matter of finding a figure that makes Rantanen happy while allowing the Denver’s 19 in ’19: What to look for in the new year franchise some salary cap flexibility. Broncos The Athletic Staff Can John Elway fix this mess? Jan 1, 2019 Elway’s first five years in office put him in rare company as a Hall of Fame quarterback turned -winning executive. But the three years since have spiraled as the Broncos have searched for a new identity and new leaders in the wake of Peyton Manning’s retirement. It was the year of young stars rising to the top of their respective leagues. Elway needs another comeback to turn around this franchise. It was the year Kyle Freeland, Nathan MacKinnon and Nikola Jokic fully demonstrated that their immense, diverse talents point the city’s arrow Who will be the head coach? toward a bright future. In Pat Bowlen’s first 25 years as owner, the Broncos had only three head It was the year Denver’s baseball franchise played into consecutive coaches: Dan Reeves, Wade Phillips and Mike Shanahan. In the last Rocktobers for the first time, the hockey team got back into the Stanley decade, they’ve had five, including Eric Studesville as an interim. It will Cup chase behind their MVP runner-up and the basketball squad got left soon be six coaches after back-to-back losing seasons under Vance at the postseason altar after suffering Game 82 heartbreak. Joseph cost him his job. Will Elway seek a proven veteran coach (the list is incredibly short this year), gamble with a college coach, or seek And it was the year Denver’s football franchise … well, let’s just say another coordinator/assistant on the rise to try to right the ship? seems like a looong time ago. Can they solve their problem at QB? The 2018 calendar year came to a close Monday, shutting the book on a year of professional sports in Denver that galloped through a lengthy In the three seasons before Manning signed with the Broncos in 2012, series of highs and lows. they went 20-28, had two different full-time head coaches and two starting quarterbacks. In the three years after Manning retired, the So what will the new year bring? The Athletic Denver staff takes a look at Broncos went 20-28, had two different head coaches and four different 19 things to watch for in 2019. starting quarterbacks. Having a proficient starting quarterback can alter a franchise, but Case Keenum failed to do that in Year One. He has Avalanche another year left on his deal, with $7 million guaranteed that may be Seeing All-Stars? large enough to keep him as the starter. But do the Broncos draft a quarterback to develop as the long-term answer? It’s practically a given that Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen will be named NHL All-Stars. They were, after all, the NHL’s top two scorers Will the ownership issue be resolved in 2019? heading into the Christmas break. But what about Avalanche captain The dispute over the Broncos’ ownership and succession plan unfolded Gabriel Landeskog? He entered Monday tied for fourth in the NHL in in 2018, but it may come to a head in 2019, especially if it plays out in goals with 24. The 26-year-old is a goal away from matching what he court. The Broncos’ three nonfamily trustees have been in charge since achieved last year and needs three more for a career high. Landeskog fall 2013, when Pat Bowlen stepped down, and have been operating has never been named to the all-star team in his seven-year NHL career. without a timetable to select his successor. But the discord, coupled with Is this the year he heads to San Jose alongside MacKinnon and back-to-back losing seasons, could prompt a change sooner rather than Rantanen? later. Will there be a new controlling owner by the year’s end? And, if so, And the goalie is … will it be a Bowlen? Will it be Philipp Grubauer? Or Semyon Varlamov? That was the Will the Broncos get a stadium naming rights partner? question at the start of the season. It’s still a question to start the new It’s been two-and-a-half years since the Broncos assumed the remaining calendar year. Varlamov held the mantle of the Avalanche’s starting five years and some $20 million on Sports Authority’s naming rights deal, goaltender until he recently allowed 21 goals in a five-game stretch. It and they’ve yet to find a new partner. Team president/CEO Joe Ellis prompted Avs coach Jared Bednar to alternate between netminders with hoped to have one in place for the start of the 2017 season but that Grubauer looking as if he was in pole position to take the crease on a never happened. So the team temporarily changed the name to Broncos full-time basis. Stadium at Mile High. And still, they are not close to landing a deal. Will prospects shine? Finding a partner is critical to funding the long-term maintenance and needed upgrades for the stadium. That it’s taken this long is frankly It’s possible Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic and the front office baffling. Maybe that changes in 2019. could learn more about their future over the next 12 months. Prospect defenseman Conor Timmins is continuing to work his way back from Nuggets concussion-like symptoms. Defenseman Cale Makar, the team’s top The end of the drought? prospect, has helped turn the University of Massachusetts into a legitimate national championship contender. It’s expected Makar will sign The Nuggets were one possession away last season from earning a after the end of the collegiate season. Shane Bowers, a Boston playoff bid. Instead, the organization was left to soak for a whole summer University center, is playing with Canada during the U-20 World Junior in the pain of losing Game 82 in Minnesota last April, the second year in Championships. But his future is in question. Bowers’ Major Junior rights a row it missed the postseason by one game. As the calendar flips to were recently traded to the Drummondville Voltiguers further fueling 2019, the Nuggets now find themselves near the top of the Western speculation he could leave college after the WJC. Then there’s Martin Conference, sitting in prime position to play past the regular season for Kaut. Colorado’s first-round pick in 2018 is adjusting to the North the first time in six years. But little can be taken for granted in this rough- American game while playing with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL. and-tumble conference. The Nuggets have survived injuries to three starters, but competition for the eight playoff spots out West remain Chance to get Hughes tighter than a set of fresh guitar strings. It’s going to take three more No conversation regarding Colorado’s future is complete without months of high-quality play for Denver to finally end its long basketball discussing what happens with Ottawa’s first-round pick that came over in drought. At the same, with the way the first half season has gone for the three-team Matt Duchene trade. The Senators are next-to-last in the Denver, 2019 will rightly usher in visions of much more than just a playoff Eastern Conference. It’s possible Ottawa could finish with a record that appearance for the Nuggets. puts Colorado into contention for a lottery pick. And if it’s the No. 1 pick, Recognition for Jokic it’s all but guaranteed the Avalanche — or any team with the top choice — will select center Jack Hughes. Should the Avs get the first pick, its The best player on the team that has led the Western Conference for assumed Hughes would immediately make the team out of camp and much of the season couldn’t possibly be left out of the All-Star Game, challenge for the second-line center role. could he? There’s no way Nikola Jokic should be left out of basketball’s February showcase. The three starting frontcourt spots in the conference Cashing in will likely go to LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis, but Each time Rantanen gets a point, there’s a cash register getting its Jokic is right up there with Paul George as the most deserving players for wings. Rantanen is in the final year of his entry-level contract and stands a reserve spot in the frontcourt, of which three are available. Jokic is to make a hefty sum once the summer rolls around. The Avalanche averaging 18.0 points, 9.8 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game, numbers that stack up against anyone who should be considered for those spots. a lingering issue. The All-Star shortstop was sidelined several days in But the Nuggets aren’t taking the selection of their best player for mid-September with what the team said was elbow inflammation. But granted. “I wouldn’t put anything past the NBA,” said Nuggets coach there is a thin line between inflammation and Tommy John surgery, and Michael Malone, who recently started campaigning for his star player to the Dodgers lost star shortstop Corey Seager to a similar injury for nearly be an MVP candidate. “We’ll see. I think he’s definitely an All-Star. What an entire season. His eventual surgery only showed up later, after he’s doing every night is remarkable. For him to have the numbers he Seager played through all that inflammation for too long. has, I don’t many guys who have ever had those numbers as a center in the NBA. But nothing surprises me in the NBA.” The Arms Front office future For more than two decades, the Rockies searched in desperation for the kind of pitching rotation that can carry a team to the postseason. They That the Nuggets kept humming in December despite the absence of finally found it in two young pitchers with wildly different styles and three starters speaks to the depth of personnel that has been cultivated backgrounds. Denver native Kyle Freeland, 25, and Venezuela son by president of basketball operations Tim Connelly, general manager German Marquez, 23, were among the NL’s best pitchers last season. Arturas Karnisovas and the rest of Denver’s front office. The team’s two Freeland finished fourth in NL Cy Young voting. Marquez was easily a most consistent performers during the month were former second-round top-10 pitcher in the second half. They are the bedrocks of Colorado’s picks Jokic (41st, 2014) and Monte Morris (51st, 2017), high-level pitching staff. performers overlooked by every other team in the NBA. Connelly and Co. are certainly not the only ones in the league who have found second- round or undrafted (see: Torrey Craig), but you’d be hard-pressed to find The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 a front office that has done it with more regularity. Yet, Connelly is in the final year of his contract. Will a playoff berth solidify his long-term future as the organization’s chief basketball decision-maker? Impact from the injured It seems certain that Isaiah Thomas and Michael Porter Jr. will likely make their Nuggets debuts in 2019 … but when? The Nuggets signed Thomas, fifth in MVP voting just two years ago, to a veteran minimum contract in July with the hope that he’d be the backup point guard, a super sub who could light it up from the bench. But he has yet to practice since undergoing hip surgery back in March, and there’s still no timetable on his recovery. Time is running out on his chance to make an impact with the Nuggets, particularly given the stellar play of Morris, who deftly slid into that backup role. As for Porter, the surprise lottery choice by the Nuggets in June, his debut date also remains a mystery. The Nuggets have preached excessive patience from the very start, and it seems unlikely Denver would thrust a guy who hasn’t played consistently since his senior year of high school into the heat of an NBA playoff race. The bigger question is whether Porter will be ready to play a big role at the start of the 2019-2020 season. Splashy acquisition? Four of the Nuggets’ five starters will be under contract for the 2019-20 season. Jokic, Will Barton and Gary Harris are locked up for the next several seasons, and Murray is a candidate to sign an extension next fall. The Nuggets could bring all five starters back if they pick up Paul Millsap’s $30 million team option or decline it and restructure a new deal with the veteran power forward. But even with that solid foundation set, the Nuggets will no doubt be exploring ways to upgrade its roster heading into next season, and that could include the pursuit of a marquee free agent. The Nuggets would have to clear significant cap space to put themselves in position to sign a max-contract player, but with the glut of marquee names likely to hit the open market — Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler and Klay Thompson among them — Denver could be one shrewd move away from adding a piece that could vault the team into championship contention. Rockies The Contract It’s not hyperbole to say that Nolan Arenado’s pending contract situation will be a turning point in the 27-year history of the Rockies. Never before have they faced the possibility of re-signing or losing such a valuable, expensive player as he enters free agency. Whether they win out and sign him to a lucrative, long-term deal or lose him at the end of the season, the club will forever be altered. The major players: Arenado; Joel Wolfe, his agent; Jeff Bridich, Colorado’s general manager; and Dick Monfort, the Rockies’ owner. But don’t forget Todd Helton. Arenado has said he has no interest in playing out his career on a losing team. The 2019 season, and the Rockies’ hopes for contention will go a long way in determining where Arenado plays in 2020. The Hair He was meant to be their pitching savior, a lion-maned, flame-throwing, first-round pick (No. 3 overall) with a wipeout slider. But five years on, Jon Gray is still finding his way. And suddenly, the 27-year-old right- hander is getting lapped by other, younger pitchers. Gray is at a turning point, a put-up or shut-up season that has him teetering between the rotation and bullpen, as the Rockies try to find the best place for him to maximize all that unrealized talent. The Elbow The news slipped under the radar a bit as the Rockies were pushing their way into the playoffs, but Trevor Story’s elbow remains 1123854 Colorado Avalanche

Why the NHL decided to come back to Colorado so fast for another outdoor game

By Adrian Dater Posted on January 1, 2019

It was news to the rest of the NHL media today, but not to us BSN Denver people, right? We already knew that the Avalanche would be hosting another Coors Stadium Series NHL outdoor game, on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020. We let you know that on Nov. 20 of last year, and reported eights months before that about the concept of an outdoor game taking shape in this great state of Colorado again in the first place. So, enough about that. Let the others play catch up on the story. The question I had today was: why? What convinced the NHL to announce another prime-time, nationally televised, BIG PRODUCTION outdoor game to our fair state, not even two years after the last one, at Coors Field? Well, of course, we know that too. Because Colorado is one hell of a great place, and the Air Force Academy is one hell of a great American institution and because of course there should be another outdoor game in Colorado. “I’m getting fired up just talking about this,” said NHL chief officer of content, Steve Mayer, on a conference call Tuesday discussing the official announcement of the outdoor game, to be played at Falcon Stadium. “We are very excited about coming back to Colorado. Our last experience there was just tremendous. Avalanche is a team of young players, an exciting team. Fans in your area are very rabid.” To answer a couple of questions before proceeding further: there is no official word on who the opponent will be against the Avalanche. That should come within the next few weeks, Mayer said. I’ve heard from my sources, though, that the Los Angeles Kings are the leading contender, partially because of Kings owner Phil Anschutz’s ties to Colorado. Not only does Anschutz have a very large footprint in Denver with his various enterprises, but he also owns the Broadmoor Hotel in the Springs, not to mention the daily newspaper there, the Gazette. We’ll see still on the opponent. A lot of people want to see the hated Wild be the one instead, or maybe Vegas or maybe the Red Wings again. Pretty sure the Wings won’t be the opponent again, though, because, well, the rivalry isn’t what it used to be and there won’t be another alumni game again between them. That last one was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that needs to be preserved in all its glory. (Here’s my story on that game, one of my personal favorites of my career). There will be other hockey on that weekend too, not just the Avs. While it still hasn’t been made official, the Air Force Academy hockey team will play Colorado College on Sunday, the 16th. Mayer also strongly hinted that an NHL Fan Fest will take place in Denver on the weekend. For those who are asking “Why Denver and not the Spring for that?” Well, Denver is a lot bigger, for one thing. For another, the NHL just held a Fan Fest in Chicago for the Winter Classic that just happened, despite the game between the Blackhawks and Boston Bruins being held at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. The NHL has a lot of ties to the U.S. military, and that’s another big reason why the game will be at the AFA and not a place like Folsom Field or Hughes Stadium or back at Coors or Mile High. The league held a very successful game last year at the Naval Academy, and hopes to play at all the academies before too long. Falcon Stadium just underwent a lot of renovation, and also the fact that USA Hockey is based in Colorado Springs played a role in this thing coming together. So, make your hotel and plane reservations now. It’s gonna be a party. And nobody knows how to party better than the state that inspired this tune you might have heard before:

BSN DENVER LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123855 Colorado Avalanche “It’s all perspective,” Graves said. “Time gets long, and you see guys get called up over you and that’s hard. But you’ve also got to understand, it’s a business, and it’s other peoples’ dream too; they’re working hard for it, Why Ryan Graves could be an undiscovered gem for the Avalanche it’s a competitive market. If things get hard, you’ve just got to take a step back and tell yourself ‘you’re 23 years old.'”

By Adrian Dater BSN DENVER LOADED: 01.02.2019 Posted on January 1, 2019

He came to the Avalanche with the rap as something of an “AHL guy”, a player with lots of pro hockey experience – just none of it at the NHL level. That’s all changed now for Ryan Graves. No one can ever take it away from him, the fact that he made it to The Show. He’s got three games of NHL experience, and there will be a fourth on Wednesday night when the Avs entertain the San Jose Sharks at the Pepsi Center. The Avs are in a 2-6-2 slide, and Graves has yet to experience what an NHL win feels like. But he still can’t wipe the smile off his face. Graves, a person who looks like a cross between former Avs goalie David Aebischer and actor Rob Lowe, can’t help it. He took the scenic route to the NHL – five years of junior in the Quebec Major League and four at the level. A 2013 fourth-round draft choice of the New York Rangers, Graves had to wait a good while to get his NHL shot, but so far he’s pretty much made the most of it. That also helps explain the perma-grin he seems to be wearing right now. “You dream of playing in the NHL as a kid, so from that aspect it’s been awesome,” Graves told BSN Denver. “I’ve just been trying to take it in and enjoy it. I’ve just tried to put my best foot forward and play as best I can.” In the three games, Graves has been even at plus-minus and put up some very good puck-possession numbers, such as the nine Corsi events for and three against Monday against the Los Angeles Kings is 8:59 of ice time. Standing 6-foot-5, 226 pounds, the lefty Graves has played a good, aggressive brand of hockey that has helped the team withstand the loss of the player who stands similar in size, Nikita Zadorov. Graves is likely to go back to the Colorado Eagles when Zadorov returns to the lineup, but that won’t happen against the Sharks. If he keeps making this kind of good first impression on Jared Bednar, who knows what can happen. “He’s not been shy when the opportunity presents itself, but not running out of his way to finish checks,” Bednar said. “He’s had a good stick in the D zone, a real long guy. Gets good breakouts with his stick and gets in shooting lanes to block shots. Really, he’s been good at a lot of different things.” What took so long for Graves to get here? A few things. First, it’s tougher for defensemen to break into the NHL at 18 or 19 like it is for forwards. It’s just a tougher position to play in general. Not that forwards have it easy, but there’s just more nuance to learn as a D-man. Second, Graves was a farmhand in a Rangers system that had a lot of older, established D-men ahead of him on one-way contracts. Third, he’ll be the first to admit his game wasn’t where it should have been. He’s had to work on his skating and quickness, something he believes has improved over the past year. He was a pretty skinny kid coming out of junior and into the AHL with the Hartford Wolfpack, so he’s had to spend lots of time in the gym getting stronger. Graves isn’t at Tom Wolfe, Man in Full stage, but he’s gettin’ there. And it feels gooooooood. “It’s crazy, because I’m only 23. Yet, you feel like you’ve been around a while,” Graves said. “You’ve had just over 250 games in the American League, four years. You feel like time’s (getting) long, but sometimes you just gotta take a step back and look at it, and guys are coming out of college at 23, in their rookie season and they’re considered young and learning the ways of the game…Just because I’ve got a few American League games doesn’t mean I’m not young. I feel like I’m still working on my game and I’m still improving every day.” Graves came over to the Avs for Chris Bigras, a second-round pick of the Avs who, at one point, was considered a future core piece of the team. It didn’t work out that way. So, Graves certainly isn’t getting big-headed all of a sudden, with three whole games under his belt. Long way to go still, and he knows it. But, hey, if the Avs can somehow come out of this with a big, rangy defenseman who suddenly lived up to the billing that made him a first-4- round draft pick to begin with? This could be “hidden gem becomes discovered finally” time. 1123856 Colorado Avalanche That's why the best defense is sometimes to remain on the offensive. Don't sit back — keep striking.

"We're trying to stay aggressive," Landeskog said. "The O-zone is the Call it a comeback: No lead safe as late rallies on the rise best place to play defense. At least, that's the way we think about it. That's easier said than done. The team that's behind is always going to push." By PAT GRAHAM AP Sports Writer THREE AMIGOS

Mikko Rantanen (17 goals, 45 assists) and MacKinnon (24 goals, 35 DENVER (AP) — Don't be fooled: That third-period lead isn't so safe. assists) get the lion's share of the credit on the high-scoring top line for Colorado. Not this season, anyway. There's been quite a comeback for the comeback. Chalk up another assist for Rantanen, though, because he wanted to make sure Landeskog received full credit, too. Landeskog's tied for the The NHL has seen 110 third-period comeback wins spanning 611 games team lead with 24 goals. through New Year's Eve. That's third-most in league history and not far off the 114 rallies in 2014-15 and 113 in '13-14, according to research by "He flies under the radar," Rantanen said. "The way he plays the game is the NHL stats and information department. the right way always. That's real fun to watch." Going into the new year, the only teams without a third-period comeback WINTER CLASSIC for a win in regulation were Carolina (0-13-2 when trailing after two) and Los Angeles (0-17-1). And the only team not to lose with a final-period The 2020 Winter Classic will be held at the Cotton Bowl in Texas. Dallas lead remains Toronto, which is 19-0-0. will host the 12th edition of the NHL's annual outdoor game on New Year's Day against an opponent yet to be determined. Commissioner Translation: Don't leave early, because anything can and often does Gary Bettman also said the Heritage Classic will return on Oct. 26 when happen in the final period. Winnipeg plays Calgary at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan. In addition, the NHL will bring an outdoor game to the Air Force Academy "Fans are getting what they want," joked Montreal forward Tomas Tatar on Feb. 15, 2020, as part of the Stadium Series. Colorado will play a said. "It's got to be pretty intense for them." team not yet announced. These days and in this speedy version of the game, no lead seems out of LEADERS (through Monday) reach. Take Tampa Bay on Saturday: Down a goal in the third against Montreal, Adam Erne tied it up and then scored the game-winner with Points: Nikita Kucherov (Tampa Bay), 65; Goals: Alex Ovechkin 1:02 remaining. (Washington), 29; Assists: Kucherov, 46; Game-winning goals: Gabriel Landeskog (Colorado), 7; Rookie goals: Elias Pettersson (Vancouver), "There's no more of sitting back and closing and trying to suffocate the 19; Goals-against average: Robin Lehner (New York Islanders), 2.14; other team," Montreal coach Claude Julien said when his team was in Shutouts: Marc-Andre Fleury (Vegas), 5; Wins: Fleury, 22; Save Denver on Dec. 19. "It's a skating game now. With the skating game percentage: Lehner, .930. that's being allowed right now, there's more offense being showcased." GAME OF THE WEEK Try sitting on the puck to protect a lead with the likes of Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, Nikita Kucherov or Nathan MacKinnon attempting to John Tavares leads Toronto against Minnesota on Thursday. Tavares is swipe it away. two goals shy of 300 for his career. He was the first overall pick by the New York Islanders in 2009. Good luck with that.

"The league is just getting faster and faster, young guys are coming through the league and they're really, really good skaters," Tatar said. LOADED: 01.02.2019 "It's just a fast game. It's faster than ever." Not only that, but these youngsters don't view things as erasing a deficit so much as an opportunity to crank up the intensity. "Everybody is good throughout the lineup," Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog said. "That makes it that much harder to put teams away. It goes to show how many good players there are in the league and how many game-changers there are, that can turn things around." And no slashing. Or holding. Or hooking. Defensemen need to be on their best behavior. "Defensively speaking, when you can't clutch and you can't grab — it's been that way for 10 years now — that really opens up the ice and allows guys to score," Avalanche defenseman Ian Cole said. "The guys are as skilled as they've ever been. Every year, they're more skilled and scoring more and more ridiculous highlight-reel goals. Guys are shooting from the goal-line and it's going off the side of the goalie's mask and in. Guys are doing stuff now that they haven't done before — or doing it more often. "The skill level is as high as it's ever been in the league." Hence, the volume of comebacks. This also helps when down: A positive attitude. "You always have to believe. You can't give up," Tatar said. "And you don't have to. There's a big chance you score one or two goals and you're back in the game." That was the case on Dec. 15 for Dallas, which fell behind the Avs 3-0 after one period and 4-2 after two. The Stars tied it up late in the final period before Colorado scored twice to earn the win. Nothing is easy. "I don't feel comfortable with any lead until the buzzer sounds," Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said. "It's a tribute to the talent around the league. When teams start feeling it, they start coming at you in waves, and it's tough to defend." 1123857 Columbus Blue Jackets offseason. They used it for motivation this season, intent on expunging the bitter taste.

“I’m still not over it,” Tortorella said in November before facing the Artemi Panarin's offensive show, run to playoffs marked Blue Jackets' Capitals for the first time since the series. “I’m not. I’m not over it for a 2018 number of reasons. I’m not a big guy worrying about the fans, but I’m (ticked) off for our fans. We had a few opportunities to win a home game in the playoffs, and I’m (ticked) off the fans can’t enjoy that.” By Brian Hedger

The Columbus Dispatch Columbus Dispatch LOADED: 01.02.2019 @BrianHedger Posted Jan 1, 2019 at 8:18 PM Updated Jan 1, 2019 at 8:18 PM

Fresh off his first four-point NHL game on Monday at Nationwide Arena, Pierre-Luc Dubois summarized where the Blue Jackets stand as the calendar flips to 2019. “Feels good to get the win to end the year 2018,” the 20-year-old center said after contributing two goals and two assists to a 6-3 win over the Ottawa Senators. “It was kind of an up-and-down year, but we can’t do anything about the past, and tonight’s 2019, so it’s the start of a new year.” It’s also a good time to step back and take a quick glance at the year that was for the Blue Jackets. Here are five story lines that helped define them in 2018: 1) Bread rises It was a trade that sent shockwaves through the NHL, bringing Artemi Panarin to the Jackets and sending Brandon Saad back to the Chicago Blackhawks a few hours before the 2017 NHL draft in Chicago. Once Panarin settled in, particularly in the second half of last season, it became clear which team won that trade in the short term. Panarin set Jackets records in assists (55) and points (82), scored a gorgeous overtime goal on the road in the playoff opener against the Washington Capitals and endeared himself to the city with a quirky, fun personality. 2) A star was born Before Dubois’ emergence as the Jackets’ best center, his biggest claim to fame was being drafted third overall in 2016 — ahead of Finnish forward Jesse Puljujarvi (Edmonton Oilers). He has since proved why. After scoring 20 goals and playing all 82 games as a rookie, Dubois returned for his NHL sophomore season even bigger, faster and better — and he still has room to improve. 3) Cam got his groove back Cam Atkinson started last season with a prolonged slump. Despite signing a long-term contract extension, he had just six goals and 13 points in 32 games before a slap shot by Seth Jones fractured his foot. During the month he was out, Atkinson retooled his shot off the ice and rediscovered his passion for the game. Upon returning on Jan. 25, 2018, at Arizona, Atkinson began a run of success that lasted the final 33 games of the 2017-18 season plus the playoffs, the 2018 world championships and the first three months of this season. He’s on pace for 50 goals and 88 points, showing no signs of cooling off. 4) Push for the playoffs The Blue Jackets were in a precarious spot at the NHL’s trade deadline last season, outside a playoff spot in the tight Metropolitan Division. Buoyed partly by the acquisition of three veterans in trades at the deadline, the Jackets went 12-3-1 in March and used a season-high 10- game winning streak to clinch a postseason spot — the first time the franchise had done that in consecutive seasons. That was an important accomplishment, even though their playoff run again ended too early. 5) Game 3, double OT It was the genesis of the Capitals’ run to the Stanley Cup, ending a marathon game at Nationwide Arena with a goal by Lars Eller in the second overtime to claw back into a series they trailed 2-0. It was the ultimate “what if?” game for the Blue Jackets, who had been inches from taking command of the series. Panarin hit iron with a shot that could’ve won it but instead gave the Capitals just enough life to win it themselves on a rebound goal. That loss and the ensuing loss of the series, without winning a single home game, hung heavy around the Blue Jackets’ necks during the 1123858 Columbus Blue Jackets Offensively, this was the first multi-goal game of his NHL career – which in season three is still solidly in the “learning curve” stage.

Werenski’s had some defensive coverage issues that are still being Five takeaways from win over the Senators ironed out, but nothing out of the ordinary for a young defenseman who wasn’t asked to play a whole lot of defense as he filled nets with pucks at lower levels. He’s always been able to score, though, and now he’s Brian Hedger sitting on nine goals through the first 39 games. This was his fifth straight game with a point, he has six points on four goals and two assists in the streak and he’s on track to score 19 goals. If Perspective is a powerful thing sometimes. so, that would surpass the single-season franchise record for goals by defensemen, which was set at 16 last year by Seth Jones and (who The Blue Jackets put together a solid win to ring in 2019 on Monday else?) Werenski – who played most of the season with a damaged night at Nationwide Arena, matching a franchise record for goals in a shoulder. period by scoring five in the third to defeat the Ottawa Senators, 6-3, but their day wasn’t defined by just a hockey game. Oh, by the way, we should also mention that he’s 21-years old. Almost 800 miles away in Boston, their captain watched while he also “I feel really good right now,” Werenski said. “Obviously, there’s things watched his 5-year old daughter, Milana, begin her recovery from a that happen that I need to work on, but I think that as a whole I’m playing scheduled surgery earlier in the day – already the second of her life, after pretty good right now. I’ve just got to keep it going, keep playing with she was born with a congenital heart defect in 2013 that required a life- confidence.” saving procedure as an infant. 3) Zach Attack, Part II There were things for the Blue Jackets to like or dislike about the way they played, including another great night for the top line and another 0- Werenski didn’t just score goals by hounding the Senators’ net. He also fer for the power play, but the only thing that really mattered to them was protected his own cage with some high-level defensive plays, none more Milana’s health. impressive than a sure goal he kept out with 5:06 left in the second period. “I called (Nick) right after the game,” said coach John Tortorella, who provided the media with a postgame update on Milana. “He’s going to Ottawa’s Mark Stone, the Senators’ leading scorer, got the puck alone in spend the night with his daughter, in her room. She’s in some pain, but front of the Blue Jackets’ net and tried to beat goalie Sergei Bobrovsky she’s doing really well. The Folignos are really happy about how it’s with a slick backhand. Bobrovsky stopped it with a great blocker save, gone, but now there’s a recovery period for her.” but the puck flipped into the air behind him – where Senators rookie forward Brady Tkachuk and center Chris Tierney were in hot pursuit. Foligno’s teammates, who’d surrounded him after practice Sunday with high-fives and hugs, played this game with their captain, his family and Werenski was just able to get his stick blade in there ahead of Tkachuk’s especially Milana fresh on their minds – and gave them something else and tap the puck away out of mid-air. It was an elite defensive effort by to smile about, as small as one hockey game is in comparison. Werenski, whose excellent hand-eye coordination prevented a goal that would’ve given Ottawa a 2-1 lead. “He wanted to talk hockey,” Tortorella said of Foligno, who watched the game. “There was no hockey talk with me. If that doesn’t put things in The look on Tkachuk’s face was priceless. perspective ... we’re worried about a power play, scoring a goal, and the Folignos are going through that. And this young girl has gone through a 4) Bobrovsky’s big second lot already in her life. So, let’s be careful here what’s important.” It wasn’t the busiest night between the pipes for Bobrovsky, who faced That’s how his postgame press conference ended, with the perfect tone – just five shots in the first period and seven in the third. not to mention perspective - for this New Year’s Eve on Nationwide Blvd. The Blue Jackets’ goalie was challenged in the second, though, and Here are five more takeaways from the Blue Jackets’ win: allowed just one goal on 13 shots – the first of two goals in the game by former Ohio State forward Ryan Dzingel. 1) More French Bread and Butter Along with his robbery of Stone that preceded Werenski’s stick save, There are nights when the Jackets’ uber-talented top line of Artemi Bobrovsky also made back-to-back stops against Stone and Tkachuk to Panarin, Pierre-Luc Dubois and Cam Atkinson drive Tortorella nuts with thwart a 3-on-2 early the period and then made a difficult save look easy turnovers, sketchy checking and missed scoring opportunities. by soaking up Maxime Lajoie’s long shot through traffic. This was not one of them. At least, not in the final 40 minutes. “I thought the key to that game was Bob’s play in the second period, where we lost ourselves,” Tortorella said. “They had nine or 10 (scoring) Whether it was Dubois and Panarin setting up the first of Zach chances in that second period and Bob gave us a chance.” Werenski’s two goals, Dubois and Atkinson setting up the second or Atkinson and Panarin creating two other goals, the first line for Columbus 5) Power play progress was a force Ottawa just couldn’t match. Not many teams can. Let’s start with the bad news for the Blue Jackets’ struggling power-play Dubois led the charge with two goals and two assists for the first four- units, just to get it out of the way. point game of his NHL career. Panarin notched his 13th multi-point game with two assists, moving up to 31 assists in 37 games he’s played. They didn’t score again, going 0-for-2 to extend a goal drought to 21 Atkinson scored his 24th goal, into an empty net, and added two assists straight power plays and they haven’t scored one with a man-advantage for a three-point night. in eight straight games. Columbus is also 1 for 35, a success rate of 2.9 percent, dating back to Dec. 4, when they went 1 for 3 in a 9-6 loss to the Want to talk plus/minus? Calgary Flames. Panarin and Atkinson each finished with plus-5s, while Dubois was the The upside against Ottawa is what the Blue Jackets did with their second slacker of the line at a mere plus-4. power play, holding the puck in the offensive zone and paving the way to the first of Dubois’ goals – scored at the tail end of a long shift for the top Almost halfway through the season, all three have a chance to finish as line. point-a-game players. Panarin’s on pace for 93 points with 26 goals and 67 assists – which would eclipse his own franchise records in points (82) It was a prime example of what the Jackets are trying to accomplish with and assists (55). Atkinson’s scoring rate would give him 89 points on 51 their first power-play unit now, which includes the top forward line plus goals and 38 points, and Dubois is on track for 81 points with 34 goals the first defense pairing of Werenski and Jones. Rather than using a 1-3- and 47 assists. 1 setup, Werenski and Jones man the left and right points while the dynamic first line works its magic down low. In essence, it’s just a A line that’s just begging for a nickname (“French Bread and Butter” continuation of what they all do during 5-on-5. anyone?) - has truly become one of the NHL’s elite scoring units. The mountain of points between them proves it. “That’s the point,” Jones said. “If that line (plus) me and Zach can create some of the chances we create 5-on-5, why couldn’t we do it 5-on-4?” 2) The Zach Attack is back It did and it eventually led to the first of five goals for Columbus in the The Blue Jackets played this game with five defensemen and their rover, third. Werenski, who struck a nice balance between hunting for offense and preventing goals at the other end. Columbus Dispatch LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123859 Columbus Blue Jackets

Eric Robinson made quick trip from Cleveland after call-up

By Brian Hedger The Columbus Dispatch @BrianHedger Posted Dec 31, 2018 at 10:16 PM Updated Jan 1, 2019 at 7:55 AM

Eric Robinson has followed the Blue Jackets closely, and not just because he is a rookie in his first full season of professional hockey with the . “I have always followed the NHL, so I’ll check the scores and watch the highlights every morning, but I try not to look too much at, ‘Is someone (in Columbus) hurt or is someone out, or how is this guy playing or how is that guy playing?’ ” said Robinson, who was recalled Monday and joined the Blue Jackets’ morning skate at Nationwide Arena. “You’d drive yourself crazy if you looked every night for that kind of stuff. So, you just focus on your game and make sure you’re playing well, taking care of yourself, wherever you are, and if the opportunity calls then you’ve got to be ready.” Robinson’s opportunity called Sunday during dinner, when he got a call from Bill Zito — the Blue Jackets’ assistant general manager and Monsters’ GM. “It was a quick two hours (down I-71),” said Robinson, who has 10 goals and 19 points in 33 games for Cleveland. “It’s an exciting drive back down here.” After signing as an undrafted free agent out of Princeton, Robinson finished last season with the Blue Jackets. He made his NHL debut in the regular-season finale at the Nashville Predators. His combination of size (6 feet 2, 200 pounds) and speed draws loose comparisons to Josh Anderson, but Robinson won’t get the chance to showcase those skills right away. He was a healthy scratch against Ottawa on Monday and might not get into a game, period. That likely will depend on Nick Foligno’s return from his daughter’s surgery on Monday in Boston. Robinson isn’t looking that far into the future, on the advice of veteran Monsters teammates such as Zac Dalpe, Nathan Gerbe and Mark Letestu — all of whom have NHL experience. “I’ve cooled off a bit since the start, but just listening to the older guys, they tell you it’s a long season and you’re going to go through ups and downs,” he said. “You’ve just got to keep working and control what you can control.” Foligno’s absence created a chain reaction within the Blue Jackets’ second, third and fourth forward lines. Lukas Sedlak played left wing on the fourth line, after being a healthy scratch in five straight games, Markus Hannikainen moved from the fourth line to the third, and Anthony Duclair skated in place of Foligno at left wing on the second line. “It’s just the same thing,” Hannikainen said of his new line, which includes Boone Jenner and Oliver Bjorkstrand. “The only thing you can do is be yourself. That’s why we’re all here, every guy. I’ve just got to do the stuff I can do.” Quotable “We love their family, obviously, and Nick’s our captain and our leader. Milana’s the strongest little girl I’ve ever met, so she’s an absolute warrior and today’s a pretty crazy day for them. We’ll definitely play for them as long as we can.” — Cam Atkinson, on Foligno’s absence for his daughter’s surgery

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Blue Jackets 6, Senators 3 | Hard-working goals propel Jackets in Nick Foligno's absence

By Brian Hedger The Columbus Dispatch @BrianHedger Posted Dec 31, 2018 at 10:15 PM Updated Jan 1, 2019 at 7:32 AM

It was the kind of game Nick Foligno would have loved to play. The opponent was the Ottawa Senators, for starters, the first team the Blue Jackets’ captain played with in the NHL. It was also decided by “dirty goals,” which don’t always end up on highlight packages but often win games. Foligno knows how to score them, loves to play in the areas of the ice they are scored from, but he wasn’t available — watching instead from Boston, where his 5-year old daughter, Milana, was recovering from heart surgery. “I called him right after the game,” coach John Tortorella said after the Blue Jackets’ 6-3 victory to ring in the new year at Nationwide Arena. “He’s going to spend the night with his daughter, in her room. She’s in some pain, but she’s doing really well. The Folignos are really happy about how it’s gone, but now there’s a recovery period for her.” That didn’t keep Foligno from watching his teammates earn a hard-nosed win. Pierre-Luc Dubois had two goals and two assists for his first career four- point game, Zach Werenski scored his eighth and ninth goals, Cam Atkinson finished with a goal and two assists, Artemi Panarin had two assists and Sergei Bobrovsky made 22 saves for his 17th win (17-11-1). “We capitalized on our chances,” said Werenski, who tied it 1-1 in the second period and then scored the winner to break a 3-3 tie with 2:01 left in the third. “We threw pucks to the net, we had guys there, bodies there, we were banging in rebounds — just second chances and stuff like that. It’s a recipe for success. Tonight we got back to that.” It was a point of emphasis after missing the net 19 times in a 4-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday. The message for this game was simple: get more pucks to the net. That’s basically what they did to score three of four goals allowed by Senators goalie Marcus Hogberg. Werenski’s first was a crisp passing play set up by Dubois and Panarin, but the “greasy” goals began with Dubois’ first of the night — scored with a backhand off Atkinson’s tip of Seth Jones’ shot from distance. That put the Blue Jackets up 2-1 at 3:59 of the third period and Dubois’ second made it 3-1, bouncing off the skate of Ottawa defenseman Cody Ceci into the net. The Senators clawed back to tie it 3-3 their own pair of odd-bounce goals, scored by Bobby Ryan and Ohio State alum Ryan Dzingel — his second of the game — but Werenksi claimed victory with his second goal. He redirected a pass from Atkinson in front of the net and the Blue Jackets had another lead, 4-3. Foligno probably pumped a fist or two, quietly, in his daughter’s hospital room. “We’re good enough where when we have the opportunities to make Tic- Tac-Toe plays, we’re going to do that,” Atkinson said. “Other than that, scoring greasy goals is part of the game nowadays. You have to get to the hard areas and I think we did a good job of that.”

Columbus Dispatch LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123861 Dallas Stars

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman comments on Stars CEO Jim Lites' criticism of Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin

Matthew DeFranks

For the first time publicly on Tuesday afternoon, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman commented on Stars CEO Jim Lites' public criticism of captain Jamie Benn and top-line center Tyler Seguin. Last week, Lites ripped into Benn and Seguin's performances this season, during which Dallas is again a fringe playoff team in the Western Conference. He said the pair were "terrible" and "out-efforted and outperformed by everybody else's best players," among other more colorful criticism. Bettman was asked about Lites' comments by on NBC's broadcast of the Winter Classic, just after Bettman announced that Dallas and the Cotton Bowl would host next season's Winter Classic. Here is his full response: "First of all, there's no excuse for public profanity. Putting that aside, I've known Jim Lites for 26 years and I've also made it a practice to tend to not to interfere in the local dynamics that take place within a team's organization. "Having said that, Jimmy's passionate and knowledgeable and, obviously, frustrated. By the same token, Jamie and Tyler are great players. They've represented our league extraordinarily well. They've helped grow the game throughout North America, especially in Texas. I'm sure they're frustrated. "But when you look at the overall situation, whether or not it's the three Jims -- Montgomery, Nill and Jimmy Lites -- and the owner of the club and the players, in the final analysis, these are all people who want to win. They want to win for Dallas, and they want to win the Cup."

Dallas Morning News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123862 Dallas Stars during January the last 50 years has been 45.3 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

If weather deems the game unplayable, it will be pushed back a day to How and why the Dallas Stars and Cotton Bowl landed the NHL's 2020 Jan. 2. Winter Classic "We'll be doing this," Alberts said while crossing his fingers. "You don't want rain. Rain's the worst. If it's warm, they could still play." Matthew DeFranks The warmest outdoor game in NHL history was 65 degrees in Denver on Feb. 27, 2016. The Cotton Bowl will again host a game on New Year's Day. This time, Alberts said the process of bringing a stadium game to Dallas began though, it won't be the historic bowl game, but rather the first outdoor about three or four years ago and centered around playing the game at game in Stars history. AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The Stars were focused more on luring a Stadium Series game instead of the Winter Classic. The Stadium Series NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced Tuesday that Dallas will is a separate outdoor series that began in 2014 and has featured more host the 2020 Winter Classic at the Cotton Bowl, marking the than one outdoor game in a given season in locales like Los Angeles, southernmost outdoor game in NHL history. The game will be on Jan. 1, Santa Clara, Denver and Annapolis. 2020, and the Stars' opponent will be announced at a later date. Discussions ultimately stalled during the 2016-17 season, when the Stars The Winter Classic is the league's marquee outdoor game, traditionally were mired in a bad start and the involved entities couldn't reach an held in hockey-crazed markets like Buffalo, Boston, Pittsburgh and agreement, according to Alberts. Chicago. The Stars are the ninth team to host the event. "The three parties involved at that point -- the Cowboys, us, and the NHL "I don't want us to ever act like a small-market team," Stars president -- we just could not get comfortable with the business formula, the Brad Alberts said. "Just because this is football country doesn't mean we economics to make it all work," Alberts said. "We stopped it. It have to act like we're a small-market team. We've got to act like we're a disappointed me at the time, but I think in hindsight, it was the right thing major-market organization, and this is the kind of stuff that if you're a to do." major-market player in our sport, you got to be able to do." The Winter Classic could not be hosted at AT&T Stadium for two The announcement follows a tumultuous weekend for the Stars after reasons. One, the Cotton Bowl Classic is typically played around the CEO Jim Lites criticized Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin's play, sparking a same time (it was on Dec. 29 each of the past two years) and the Winter league-wide media firestorm directed toward North Texas. Classic is a New Year's Day event. Two, it would not be a true outdoor game. The Winter Classic will come after the Stars hosted the 2018 NHL draft, making the franchise the fifth to host both a draft and a Winter Classic So the Cotton Bowl emerged as an option. At some point in the Fall since 2008. The game will feature special uniforms designed by the 2017, Alberts called Cotton Bowl general manager Roland Rainey to set league that teams typically wear a few times after the Winter Classic as up a tour of the stadium and took Stars executive vice president Matt well. Bowman with him. NHL chief content officer Steve Mayer, who is responsible for the "And I loved it," Alberts said. "I loved the oldness of it. I loved the history league's events, said the draft helped forge relationships with both Stars of it. I loved the sight lines. I went out on the 50-yard line right in the management and the Dallas Sports Commission. middle of the field and looked around and said 'This would be awesome.'" "Whether it's been the All-Star Game or the draft and even occasionally Alberts relayed the idea to Mayer, who visited the site on the first day of when we've gone to the nontraditionals for an outdoor game, I think we the draft last summer. ("They came back and they loved it too," Alberts are focused in the next few years to introduce more teams into the mix," said. "They said 'Yeah, I get it.' So that then started the heating up Mayer said. "I think we heard our fans. We also know and respect teams process of this.") that have participated in many of these games, but I also think there is a value in introducing new teams." Mayer also attended the Red River Showdown in October with Dallas Sports Commission executive director Monica Paul before meeting with Tickets will go on sale at a later date, but Stars season-ticket holders and Alberts as the Stars hosted Winnipeg that night. suite holders will have the first opportunity to purchase them before the general public. Fans can visit DallasStars.com/WinterClassic for ticket "I remember specifically saying to him, I put him right on the spot: 'Are information, though Alberts said prices have not been determined. you going to now recommend that we get the Winter Classic at the Capacity at the Cotton Bowl is 92,100, though that will change for a Cotton Bowl next year?'" Alberts said. "And he said yes." hockey game. Mayer said the league did look at other venues in the area, including The opponent will be chosen by the Stars, the league and NBC, which Globe Life Park in Arlington, but did not seriously consider others. He televises the game. Alberts said the groups have "gone around and said the league will incorporate the feel Dallas into the event, much like around and around and around, and still going around and around on they did with Notre Dame on Tuesday afternoon. that." "Music will be a huge part of what we're going to do in Dallas," Mayer "One, you have to recognize NBC's wishes," Alberts said. "You want a said. "I think it's a little bit of 'Hey, look where we are' and music is such a major TV market. Two, a highly competitive team with some superstar part of outwardly showing the world what Dallas can bring to the table. power. That's what we're looking at. So no, it's not necessarily a division We're going to activate that area. We won't have the entire State Fair rival. At this point, I don't know who it's going to be. We could play the Ground open but we're going to open a significant amount, and we're winner of the Stanley Cup. We could play somebody from a major certainly going to have a Winter Classic Fan Fest there. Those are really Northeast market. We could play someone in the division. I don't know. great facilities for us to activate." Like I said, we're going around and around." For the franchise, the Winter Classic is a massive opportunity on a big Minnesota could be interesting given the history of the Stars and rabid stage. The NHL gave a non-traditional market one of its marquee events hockey audience in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Fellow non-traditional after recently trusting it with the draft in 2018. So what's the next step for markets like Nashville or Vegas would be fun, but may come with the team? concerns about television viewership. St. Louis is a regional rival, Buffalo With Scandinavian defensemen Miro Heiskanen, John Klingberg and Esa would harken back to the Stars' lone Stanley Cup, and New Jersey Lindell, the team has told the league it would like to play a Global Series currently has Plano natives Blake Coleman and Stefan Noesen. game in Europe. "We kind of said 'Let's see what the reaction will be. We've never done "That's a separate topic, but I have told the NHL that the Stars would love this before. Let's hear what the fans say. Let's hear what you say,'" to participate in a Global Series game as well," Alberts said. "I think after Mayer said. "We'll consider it all and we'll announce soon an opponent, this, that would be the next thing for us, especially with Miro and Klinger but we thought it would be interesting to leave it up for discussion and I and Esa to go play a game in Helsinki or Sweden. We're not actively think it will be." having those discussions, but I think that would be a logical next step Cooperative weather is always a concern with outdoor events, but after this. We'd love to participate." especially given the Cotton Bowl's most recent event. The First For the market (and the state of Texas, really), it will be a test to sell out Responder Bowl was cancelled after about 10 minutes of game time the stadium and showcase the sport in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. because of lightning in the area. The average temperature in Dallas Paul said the Dallas Sports Commission estimated the Winter Classic's economic impact at $30 million, including anticipated attendance, spending at hotels, shopping and restaurants. "One, the history and the tradition of the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 1 is a very long, historic tradition there," Paul said. "The Cotton Bowl Classic being held Jan. 1 for so many years. The Winter Classic is traditionally held in an outdoor venue and instilling the confidence that not only can the stadium and the city can handle it, the Stars and hockey fans alike can be passionate and are going to show up." The Winter Classic will be accompanied by two hockey tournaments featuring an estimated total of 124 teams, ranging from AAA U-16 and U- 18 teams across the country competing in the Frosty Cup to youth and adult teams competing in the NYE Faceoff. Both will be played at StarCenters across the metroplex. "The city of Dallas and the entire Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex has become a destination for the world's biggest sporting events and hosting the NHL Winter Classic will continue that trend," Stars owner Tom Gaglardi said in a statement. "We will have a unique opportunity to showcase the growth of the game of hockey in Texas over the last 26 years through our tremendous fan support, grassroots efforts and player and alumni involvement in the community." "I can't think of a better way to celebrate the great history of New Year's Day at Cotton Bowl Stadium than by welcoming thousands of fans to witness the first ever outdoor professional hockey game in Texas," Dallas mayor Mike Rawlings said. "This great event is yet another example of how Dallas continues to be one of the most sought-after locations to host major sports events." Alberts said the team will also participate in a community-based legacy project that is run through the Dallas Stars Foundation. "Whether it's supporting a school, building a school, whatever," Alberts said. "I've let them come up with the idea, but there will be a legacy project that's funneled through our foundation that will be borne out of this game that will last when it's done."

Dallas Morning News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123863 Dallas Stars

Dallas Stars to host 2020 NHL Winter Classic at the Cotton Bowl; which team would you like to see them play?

Staff Report By SportsDayDFW.com Update, 10:57 a.m. Tuesday: It's official.

The Dallas Stars will host the NHL's 2020 Winter Classic at the Cotton Bowl, league commissioner Gary Bettman announced on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio on Tuesday morning. Game time and the Stars' opponent have yet to be determined. Editor's note: Vote on who you want the Stars to play and where at the bottom of this post. The Dallas Stars are reportedly getting some positive news amid the Jim Lites-Jamie Benn-Tyler Seguin saga: Sportsnet's John Shannon is reporting that the team will host the 2020 Winter Classic. Sportsnet also reports that "NHL commissioner Gary Bettman is slated to make 'special 2019-20 event announcements' during the second intermission of Tuesday's Winter Classic game, according to a press release." The Winter Classic began in 2008 and has been held once every year (except in 2013 due to a lockout). It'll be the first time the Stars are a part of the annual tradition. Past games have been held in New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Washington D.C., Missouri and Indiana. Here's a list of past games: Almost all have been in Northern or Eastern U.S. cities, with the exception of the 2017 game at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. The NHL held outdoor Stadium Series games in 2014 in Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles and in 2015 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. The Stars are one of eight NHL teams that have never played in an outdoor game. We'll have more on this story as it develops.

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NHL’s Winter Classic in Texas will bring ice rink to Cotton Bowl

BY STEFAN STEVENSON JANUARY 01, 2019 03:26 PM

DALLAS The historic Cotton Bowl has hosted just about everything since opening in Fair Park in 1930. From college football to the Dallas Cowboys, and from World Cup soccer to the Texas Jam, it has seen it all pretty much over 89 years. Except for an ice rink. That will change in 2020. The Dallas Stars will host the NHL’s Winter Classic on Jan. 1, 2020, against an opponent to be announced later. It will be the first NHL regular-season outdoor game for the Stars. The league started the outdoor Winter Classic in 2008 in Buffalo, N.Y. The highest recorded temperature in Dallas on January 1 is 82 degrees in 2006. Dallas’ highest temperature in the month of January was 88 degrees in 1969, according to Intellicast.com. “Cotton Bowl Stadium is one of the most iconic and recognizable sports venues in the United States, Dallas Stars owner Tom Gaglardi said in a release. “For nearly a century, the stadium has hosted premier sporting events and has featured some of the greatest players to ever to play their sport.” This year’s Winter Classic between the Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks was played at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Ind.

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Q&A: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on 2020 Winter Classic, state of the Stars, and Lites comments

By Sean Shapiro Jan 1, 2019

The Dallas Stars were named as hosts of the next Winter Classic on Tuesday. They will host a yet-to-be-named opponent on Jan. 1, 2020 at the Cotton Bowl. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman made the official announcement during the second intermission of the 2019 Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and Boston Bruins at Notre Dame Stadium. After making the announcement, Bettman was made available for a five- minute phone interview with The Athletic Dallas about the 2020 game, the Dallas Stars, and recent comments that dominated the hockey world. Shapiro: Why were the Stars on the NHL’s radar for an event like this? Bettman: We love the fact that the Dallas Stars are doing so well in the community and that the fan base is growing, and we love Tom Gaglardi’s commitment to the team and the city. And we’ve been in discussion with them about events for at least a couple of years. And as another step in visiting iconic facilities, the Cotton Bowl is a logical locale for us to host the game. This is the NHL’s marquee game in a market with unpredictable weather at times. Does that concern you at all when taking the Winter Classic to Texas? Other than rain and sun, we can deal with almost anything else. If this game were scheduled for yesterday (at Notre Dame) we would have been in trouble here, because it poured like crazy all day. So we’ve looked at the weather forecasts, and we’re comfortable that we can create a competitive situation for our teams that are reflective of the fact this is a game that counts in the standings. Does this signal a new era of Winter Classics as far as locale and teams? We’ve constantly tried to focus on unique and special situations, and that speaks to the markets or to iconic venues. In Dallas, we have the benefit of accomplishing both. We are going to a — quote, newer, but it’s really not so new, market — and we’re are going to an iconic venue. We’re putting the Cotton Bowl back in play on New Year’s Day. What do you think about the state of Stars franchise right now? Whether it’s been Tom Gaglardi’s commitment to the team, or to the American Airlines Center, or to the city of Dallas, particularly with the Dr Pepper rinks, this is a team that is committed to the community, is involved in grassroots program and is involved in growing the fan base, whether or not there is the occasional frustration on the ice in terms of performance isn’t how you define a team long term. All the vital signs are great for this franchise for the Stars long term. What about the comments from Jim Lites on Friday? What did you think about them and how it reflects on the Stars? As a general rule, I don’t get involved. If there is a reason where something is so over the line on a repetitive basis, then maybe there is a need for a conversation. But obviously, there is a fair amount of frustration there, both on the management side and on the players’ side. It reflects, more than anything else, a common passion for winning. Whether it’s Tyler or Jamie — and they’ve given so much to the growth of the game in Texas — or whether it’s not the three Jims or Tom, everybody wants better. And I think that common sense of purpose will ultimately be good for the franchise. But this is unprecedented really; for not just hockey, but all sports. Wasn’t this at least shocking? I’m rarely shocked anymore, I’ve been doing this a long time. When I saw it, people can draw their own conclusions as to whether or not somebody in a similar situation would do the same thing. But I think more than anything it speaks to the frustration, of which is everybody wants to be doing better.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123866 Dallas Stars “The draft really was the key here,” Mayer said. The NHL was impressed with both the Stars and the City of Dallas as hosts. They received positive reviews from teams, draft picks, fans, and How the NHL’s 2020 Winter Classic ended up in Dallas’ Cotton Bowl broadcast partners. While those good feelings were flowing, the NHL did its own investigation of the Cotton Bowl during draft weekend. By Sean Shapiro NHL officials toured the Cotton Bowl, and they were impressed with the sight lines as well as the location of the venue. It was this development Jan 1, 2019 that turned the Cotton Bowl from a pipe dream into a reality for an outdoor game, but the NHL wanted to see the venue in action.

So back in October Mayer attended the Texas-Oklahoma game with For 72 years the Cotton Bowl was a go-to destination on New Year’s Paul. Cotton Bowl officials gave Mayer a full tour of the facility while the Day. football game was going on and he came away with the impression that this could really work. From 1937 to 2009, the stadium on the Texas State Fair Grounds would welcome the new year with one of college football’s marquee bowl “I think that game was very important, that is the premier game that is games. In 2010 the bowl game, which shares the same name, left the played at the Cotton Bowl stadium every year,” Paul said. “The stadium city of Dallas for Arlington and AT&T Stadium. and Fair Park is fully activated with the state fair. So I think it was very important to show the capacity to the NHL of what opportunities lie there A decade later, the NHL and the Dallas Stars are bringing a marquee with the Cotton Bowl and the area around it.” sporting event back to the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day. The 90-year- old venue will host the 2020 Winter Classic. “I saw that place in full motion, the Texas State Fair, that game is incredible, as a sports fan and as an event fan, that was super,” Mayer “I think the Cotton Bowl has a long, storied history on Jan. 1 that we kind said. “There are certain things we have to have, to make our game work, of lost,” Monica Paul, the Executive Director of the Dallas Sports and the boxes start to check off one by one, and I think that’s when we Commission, told The Athletic. “They played there for so many years. knew the Cotton Bowl was our answer.” Our Dallas community remembers that and we get that back in 2020 with the Winter Classic.” “That night we were waiting for the game against the Jets to start and Steve and I were having a drink and I remember I asked Steve, ‘Are you “I had grown up with the Cotton Bowl, I had always thought in my head, going to recommend that we get the Winter Classic for next season?’ how cool would it be to bring the Cotton Bowl back to January 1?” said And he said yes,” Alberts said. Steve Mayer, the NHL Executive VP of Creative Development and Programing. “Growing up that was part of my childhood — Cotton Bowl, Mayer returned from Dallas and met with NHL Commissioner Gary Rose Bowl, Orange Bowl.” Bettman about his visit to the Cotton Bowl. The NHL had been looking to bring the Winter Classic out of the NHL’s traditional comfort zone, and This all started to come together when Mayer and Stars president Brad Dallas seemed like the ideal fit for the southernmost outdoor game in Alberts first met four years ago. NHL history. “At some point during our first meeting, I said, ‘We want to have a Winter This is when a pair of television networks got involved. NBC had to be on Classic in Dallas or at least a stadium game,'” Alberts said. “That started board with having the Stars featured in the NHL’s marquee regular- the conversation.” season contest. Once that was cleared, the Stars had to work with When the original plan was hatched and discussions began, the Stars ESPN, which runs the First Responder Bowl, convincing them to move were going to have a Stadium Series game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington the bowl game out of the Cotton Bowl so the facility could be dedicated to during the 2017-18 season as part of the 25th-anniversary celebration for building an ideal ice surface starting in mid-December. the franchise moving from Minnesota to Texas. Everything was greenlit at the NHL Board of Governors meeting and on That event looked like it was going to happen, but the plan of a game in Tuesday, it was publicly announced that the game was coming to Dallas. the NFL stadium fell apart early in the 2016-17 season. It started with the Mayer added that Dallas was chosen from a rather large pool of Stars’ horrendous start to a season that immediately followed their trip to candidates and the NHL has considered “12 to 15” venues for Winter the second round of the playoffs. Classics or Stadium Series games. The league plans to announce more On the business end, all three parties involved found it difficult to figure games for the 2020-21 season later this season, and the 2022 Winter out the economics of making the game financially feasible. Classic will likely be unveiled at the end of 2019. “So we walked away from that,” Alberts said. “We weren’t honed in on “It’s all part of a puzzle and the Dallas piece made perfect sense for the the Winter Classic, we were just honed in on a Stadium Series game. It Winter Classic in 2020,” Mayer said. didn’t look like it would work so we backed away.” A few key steps remain. An opponent still has to be selected, a decision Mayer also said that from the NHL’s perspective, AT&T Stadium would that the Stars, the NHL, and NBC get to weigh in on. It’s likely going to be never really work for a Winter Classic. an opponent with a recent history of success and some star power for the television audience. It’s also been confirmed that it won’t be the Chicago “There are places we can’t go for the Jan. 1 game,” Mayer said. “I don’t Blackhawks. think we’ll ever go indoors for the Winter Classic. This is outdoor hockey this is in the elements. Playing it in a dome with open roofs or windows “There is not a natural rival for Dallas, and we looked at all the games, isn’t an outdoor game. This is the outdoor game on our schedule it needs there is not where one stands out in a dramatic way, so we are going to to be truly outdoors.” wait a little bit to pick the team,” Mayer said. “I’d like to think, because we’re bringing in a new team, maybe we play them against another new The idea of an outdoor game was tabled — until the Stars started to kick team that hasn’t played outdoors.” around the idea of having a true outdoor game in the Cotton Bowl. The Stars also have to get to work on selling 70,000 tickets. “It’s an outdoor game and it’s in the City of Dallas, and I called up the general manager down there (at the Cotton Bowl) and we took a tour of “We are marketing this and trying to reach out to hockey fans in all of it, because I had never seen behind the scenes,” Alberts said. “I came Texas,” Alberts said. “Not just Dallas, but hockey fans in Houston, Austin, away thinking that this would be awesome. The oldness is what I love. and San Antonio. For example, if you are a hockey fan of the San There is great history there. There is hockey history there, the Dallas Antonio Rampage, you probably want to come watch this game. We want Blackhawks played in the Field House that’s adjacent to Fair Park … the to this to be a showcase for the entire state’s passion for hockey.” sight lines, I thought, were gonna be great. And we came away thinking “We are going to have a very reasonably-priced ticket and we want this could really work.” people in Dallas to come to one of the bigger events on the sports This tour took place in the fall of 2017, and Alberts started looking into schedule and we are going to make it very affordable,” Mayer said. the logistics of getting an outdoor hockey game into the Cotton Bowl with Alberts said there are also plans for large events around the game. The the Dallas Sports Commission. Stars are planning on hosting youth hockey tournaments in area rinks Alberts then called Mayer back to start discussing the venue and there leading up to the game, while there are also plans to help celebrate the were preliminary talks about having a Winter Classic or Stadium Series in history of the Cotton Bowl as a venue. the Cotton Bowl. The plan really gained legs when the Stars hosted the NHL Draft back in June. “This is the place where people in Dallas would go to celebrate January 1 with a big-time sporting event,” Alberts said. “We are going to honor that, just this time it’ll be with a hockey game.”

The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123867 Detroit Red Wings

Detroit Red Wings lose another veteran defenseman to broken foot

Helene St. James, Detroit Free Press

Published 11:40 p.m. ET Dec. 31, 2018 | Updated 12:38 a.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019

The Detroit Red Wings’ sick bay swelled as another veteran defenseman took up residence.

Already reeling from injuries to two veteran defensemen, the Wings found out Monday that Trevor Daley will miss three-to-five weeks with a broken foot.

Coach announced the news after the 4-3 shootout loss to Florida at Little Caesars Arena.

It happened “this morning,” Blashill said. “I didn’t think it was a big deal. Then it’s a big deal.”

The Wings are also without defenseman Mike Green (out since Dec. 14 with a foot/ankle injury) and Danny DeKeyser (out since Dec. with a hand injury) Blashill said over the weekend both are “weeks away.”

More: Who's close, who's 'weeks away' among injured Red Wings

The Wings’ rough start to the season reflected them playing without Green, Daley, Niklas Kronwall and Jonathan Ericsson. Now they’re faced with a similar situation, forced to rely more heavily on inexperienced players. Filip Hronek had a rough night Saturday in Dallas, and fellow rookie Dennis Cholowski turned the puck over on one of the goals Monday.

The Wings are 13-8-2 with Green in the lineup, 2-11-5 without him.

“Our record is reflective,” Blashill said. “When those guys have been out, we haven’t won enough games. Now what has to happen is guys that are here have to play great hockey.

“I’ve said that before — the amount that you miss guys depends on the level of which the players you have available play. We’ve got guys that I think have some better hockey in them that have to play great hockey. We have some young players in the lineup, they have to play great. We have some older players in the lineup, they have to play great.”

Blashill said the Wings were unlikely to call up anyone from Grand Rapids on Tuesday, and that it would depend on whether the Wings will simply decide to use who is available — Kronwall, Ericsson, Hronek, Cholowski, Nick Jensen and Luke Witkowski for the time being. The Wings don’t go on the road until Jan. 11.

Detroit Free Press LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123868 Detroit Red Wings “In a perfect world, if you have a young defenseman – like in Cholo’s case, he’s a really good offensive defenseman that is still learning to play defense,” Blashill said. “You’d like to be able to shelter him a little bit and How Detroit Red Wings hope to offset key losses on defense give him the right minutes at the right times, and we haven’t been in much of a position to do that this year.

“If you look through the league, there’s a lot of really good young players Helene St. James, Detroit Free Press but most of them are forwards. Defense is a learned position. The biggest thing with trial by fire is that guys keep their confidence and the Published 3:00 p.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019 | Updated 6:50 p.m. ET Jan. 1, coaches keep their confidence in the guys. That can be tested at times 2019 when the puck goes in your net too much.

"I thought Filip Hronek came back with an excellent night last night after a The Detroit Red Wings worked on puck protection Tuesday in the hopes really, really tough night in Dallas. So good for him that he was able to let that can help mask the injuries that have decimated the defense. it go and move on to the next game. Cholo was OK last night, we need him to be way better tomorrow night and hopefully he can keep building.” The Wings take a five-game losing skid up against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday (7 p.m., Fox Sports Detroit). Darren Helm is expected to return after missing seven weeks because of a shoulder injury, but the Detroit Free Press LOADED: 01.02.2019 sick bay still holds key veteran defensemen Mike Green, Danny DeKeyser and Trevor Daley.

The difference those three make to the lineup shows in the record: the Wings are 13-8-2 with Green, 2-11-5 without him. When DeKeyser returned from his first hand injury to play from Nov. 3-Dec. 4, the Wings went 8-5-2. Without him, they are 7-11-3. The Wings when 11-7-1 from Oct. 18-Nov. 26, between Daley's injuries.

All are out several weeks, leaving the Wings searching for ways to get by.

“The guys that are in the lineup have to play great,” coach Jeff Blashill said after Tuesday’s practice. “Part of that isn’t just the D, it’s the forwards really doing a job of allowing us not to play much defense and holding onto the puck in the O-zone. We need to play offense as much as we can without putting our D in real tough spots.

"We have guys that are capable, and they have to play at a high level. They can’t play OK, they have to play better. So it’s just a matter of every guy playing their ‘A’ game as much as possible, that’s the way you grind through it and find a way to win when you are shorthanded.”

More: What were the biggest Wings stories of 2018? We look back

Blashill said the Wings will call up a defenseman from Grand Rapids, but he hadn’t yet determined who it would be. He said the player might not necessarily be in the lineup, in which case it’ll probably be Brian Lashoff, a veteran minor-leaguer. Blashill sounded like he is leaning towards using the six defensemen still standing: Niklas Kronwall, Jonathan Ericsson, Nick Jensen, Luke Witkowski, and rookies Dennis Cholowski and Filip Hronek. Witkowski is especially likely to be in the lineup against the Flames, given the brawl that occurred when the teams met last season at Little Caesars Arena.

The Wings are trying to make the most of having such a corps.

“The coaches talk about all our guys being able to play their top game every night,” Jensen said. “That is what it is going to take. You can’t have guys not playing their great games, because that is when it is going to show because we are a young team, and playing against these other teams that have skilled veterans that know how to get it done, it does show when all our guys aren’t playing at their top game.

“It’s not easy being able to show up every night, and playing consistent in this league is really hard. That’s why the top guys in this league are so good, because they do it every night.”

Injuries forced the Wings to start the season with four rookies in the lineup, and that played into the 1-7-2 start.

“You’ve got the some of these guys that are trying to learn the game,” Jensen said, “and you’ve got some of the best forwards in the league coming down on you and forechecking and trying to take the puck away and put it in your own net, so it’s definitely not easy.”

Red Wings defenseman Nick Jensen skates against the Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews on Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018, in Toronto.

Jensen is a good third-pair defenseman, but he had to play 28:21 minutes in Monday’s 4-3 shootout loss to Florida because the Wings didn’t have Green, DeKeyser and Daley. Hronek, 21, is being used on both special teams, and Cholowski, 20, is also running a power play. It’s a lot to ask of rookie defensemen. In Saturday’s game at Dallas, the rookies started the game on the same pairing. 1123869 Detroit Red Wings Salary cap hit: $3 million.

The buzz: Played better than his numbers reflected during the opening month. He’s one of the team’s most dynamic forwards with his ability to Detroit Red Wings midseason grades: Young players respond in big accelerate and create chances, and that has been on display with a roles consistent basis.

Grade: B

Helene St. James, Detroit Free Press G Jonathan Bernier

Published 6:00 a.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019 | Updated 11:34 a.m. ET Jan. 1, Stats: 5-10-2 record with a .892 save percentage and 3.56 goals-against 2019 average.

Salary cap hit: $3 million.

The game was a microcosm of the first half of the season: Play well for a The buzz: Has played better than his numbers reflect. As the backup, he period, then self-destruct. often has played the second leg of back-to-back games and did play both At the midpoint of their season, the Detroit Red Wings are 15-19-7, on a games in Washington. winless skid that grew to five games after Monday’s 4-3 shootout loss to Grade: B-minus the Florida Panthers at Little Caesars Arena. It was a performance that encapsulated the first 41 games of the season, as they did things right for F Tyler Bertuzzi a while, but not long enough to earn two points. Stats: 9 goals, 12 assists in 39 games. “We stopped skating, stopped talking to each other,” defenseman Niklas Kronwall said. “I’ve seen it before here a few times over the year where Salary cap hit: $1.4 million. we just stop skating and we just wait for someone else to do it. We’ve got The buzz: Does a good job going to hard areas, scores tough goals and one guy with the puck and four guys just looking at each other. aggravates opponents. Potential to be even better as he gets stronger.

“When we play at our game, at our level where we can be at, where we Grade: B have to be, we can be a pretty good team. But our lowest level isn’t good enough. When we’re not skating, we’re not a very good team.” D Dennis Cholowski

The Wings have suffered from injuries, unable to mask the absence of Stats: 6 goals, 8 assists in 39 games. Mike Green, Danny DeKeyser, Anthony Mantha and Darren Helm. Trevor Salary cap hit: $925,000. Daley joined the sick bay group Monday, out three-to-five weeks with a broken foot. The buzz: Was cast into big role from start of season because of injuries (like running one of the power play units) and has responded with a The Wings started 1-7-2 this season while relying on as many as four steady, smart game. Needs to improve defensively, but early returns for rookie defensemen. this rookie are promising. As the Wings grew healthier – especially when Green joined the lineup – Grade: B-minus the victories started coming. They won in Boston for the first time in five years. They beat the high-scoring Maple Leafs in Toronto. The Wings Red Wings' Trevor Daley skates in his 1000th NHL game against the have shown through the first half of the season how good they can be Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena on Dec. 23, 2018 in Toronto. when they are healthy and play as a team, and how miserable it is when they don’t put in an effort, like Saturday in a 5-1 loss at Dallas. D Trevor Daley

Against the Panthers, the Wings rolled out a 3-0 lead in the first period, Stats: 2 goals, 4 assists in 31 games. then stopped working and it was 3-3 going into the third period. Salary cap hit: $3.167 million. “Yeah, that’s why our record is where it is,” coach Jeff Blashill said. “I The buzz: Regularly sees shifts against opposing top lines, and makes think we’ve played a decent amount of good hockey. We don’t make good plays with the puck. He’s a penalty-kill workhorse, with an average enough plays, whether it’s defensive or offensive, to make sure you win in the 3-minute range. the hockey game. So yes, it’s a reflective of that.” Grade: B For the long-term success of the organization, the Wings are better off finishing low in the standings and improving their draft lottery odds. They F Jacob de la Rose lack the superstars that mark a Cup contender, and those generally come from drafting and developing. Stats: 2 goals, 4 assists in 29 games.

It is a good sign for rebuild that some of the best grades at the midpoint Salary cap hit: $900,000. belong to cornerstones of that process – Dylan Larkin has earned an “A,” The buzz: Claimed off waivers Oct. 17. Has done a good job fitting in, and other young players such as Andreas Athanasiou, Michael isn’t afraid to shoot the puck and has helped kill penalties. Might be Rasmussen and Anthony Mantha also fared well. potential for a little more offense as he gains a greater comfort level. Players were graded to expectation – are they counted on to score? To Grade: B-minus provide energy? To contain top opposing players? D Danny DeKeyser F Justin Abdelkader Stats: 1 goal, 6 assists in 20 games. Stats: 5 goals, 8 assists in 41 games. Salary cap hit: $5 million. Salary cap hit: $4.25 million. The buzz: Missed eight games with hand injury in October and suffered The buzz: Playing better after a poor start to the season but needs to be another injury Dec. 4. Does little things to break up plays, and is one of more physical, especially when the points aren’t coming. Part of his team’s workhorses at even strength and on the penalty kill. Wings were game is being in front of the net, but he needs to figure out how to do it 8-5-2 with him in lineup between injuries. without being the reason goals are disallowed (as happened Oct. 20 and Dec. 29). Grade: C-plus

Grade: C F Christoffer Ehn

F Andreas Athanasiou Stats: 1 goals, 3 assists in 25 games.

Stats: 13 goals, 9 assists in 36 games. Salary cap hit: $759,167. The buzz: Was a surprise addition out of camp, on the strength of his Stats: 2 goals, 8 assists in 40 games. skating and defensive sense. Was sent to the minors but recalled because of injuries. A grinder who can help the penalty kill if needed, with Salary cap hit: $812,500. potential for offensive growth. The buzz: Got into lineup the second game of the season because of Grade: B-minus injuries to regulars and has maintained a foothold on the strength of his skating ability. Would be nice to see him do a little more with the puck. D Jonathan Ericsson Grade: B Stats: 3 goals, no assists in 23 games. D Niklas Kronwall Salary cap hit: $4.25 million. Stats: 2 goals, 10 assists in 38 games. The buzz: Often used against opposing top lines, and logs regular shifts on the penalty kill. Does little things to break up plays, but could stand to Salary cap hit: $4.75 million. be more consistent. The buzz: Has been at his most physical in three years, but he’s playing Grade: C on a bad knee and has a lot of hard miles on him. Credit for effort, but execution lacks. F Martin Frk Grade: C Stats: 1 goal, 3 assists in 23 games. F Dylan Larkin Salary cap hit: $1,050,000. Stats: 17 goals, 22 assists in 41 games. The buzz: He works hard, but opponents know to neutralize his hard, right-handed shot, and that has left Frk unable to gain a foothold in the Salary cap hit: $6.1 million. lineup. The buzz: Has led the team in scoring out of the gate, shown consistency Grade: C-minus and more than embraced being named an alternate captain with his leadership on and off the ice. F Luke Glendening Grade: A Stats: 5 goals, 8 assists in 41 games. F Anthony Mantha Salary cap hit: $1.8 million. Stats: 9 goals, 5 assists in 27 games. The buzz: Plays physical, chips in offensively, is the team’s best faceoff guy and a workhorse on the penalty kill. Salary cap hit: $3.3 million.

Grade: B-plus The buzz: Was signed in offseason for two years, $6.6 million. Produced one goal and two assists in first 10 games, stats that reflected how little D Mike Green impact he had. Was playing much better when he hurt a hand fighting Dec. 2, but consistency remains an issue. Stats: 3 goals, 13 assists in 23 games. Grade: B Salary cap hit: $5,375 million. F Frans Nielsen The buzz: Missed the first three weeks battling a virus and suffered a lower-body injury Dec. 10. Brings offense with the way he handles the Stats: 7 goals, 17 assists in 37 games. puck, from getting it to forwards to joining a rush. He’s a huge part of the offense. Salary cap hit: $5.25 million.

Grade: A-minus The buzz: He’s another guy who had a rough October, then trended much better. He has produced consistently, never going more than two F Darren Helm games without a point. Does little things right, and is good with self- accountability. Stats: 1 goal, 5 assists in 20 games. Grade: B-plus Salary cap hit: $3.85 million. F Gustav Nyquist The buzz: Was doing a good job providing speed and forechecking on the top line when he suffered a shoulder injury Nov. 17. He’s a top Stats: 10 goals, 24 assists in 41 games. penalty killer who regularly kills valuable seconds by racing the puck into the offensive zone. Salary cap hit: $4.75 million.

Grade: B-minus The buzz: He’s on pace for a career year in points, in the 60-plus range. Has been consistent with production, only going without a point for two G Jimmy Howard three-game stretches. Has played hard along boards, wins puck battles, and finds open teammates. Stats: 10-9-5 with a .920 save percentage and 2.72 goals-against average. Grade: A-minus

Salary cap hit: $5.3 million. F Michael Rasmussen

The buzz: Has given his teammates a chance to win most starts, bailed Stats: 6 goals, 6 assists in 39 games. them out through poor periods and stolen points at times. Salary cap hit: $925,000. Grade: B-plus The buzz: Made the team out of training camp. Has done a good job D Filip Hronek going to the net, which is where he has potential to thrive in his career.

Stats: 2 goals, 2 assists in 15 games. Grade: B

Salary cap hit: $725,833. F Thomas Vanek

The buzz: Struggled at start of season, was sent to minors and has had Stats: 6 goals,10 assists in 33 games. ups and down since returning. At times makes good plays with the puck. Salary cap hit: $3 million. Grade: C The buzz: He’s one of the most creative players in the game, but that D Nick Jensen hasn’t yielded his usual pace of production (he has been a consistent 20- goal scorer). Needed time to regain legs after knee injury, and has been better of late.

Grade: C-plus

D/F Luke Witkowski

Stats: 2 assists in 13 games.

Salary cap hit: $750,000.

The buzz: Provides energy, stands up for teammates, fights, isn’t afraid to shoot the puck, and doesn’t complain when he goes for stretches without playing.

Grade: B-minus

Coaching staff

The buzz: Head coach Jeff Blashill and his staff (including bench assistants Dan Bylsma, Doug Houda and Pat Ferschweiler and goalie coach Jeff Salajko) had to deal with significant injuries, especially on defense. The Wings rebounded from a rough first three weeks to put together a winning record in November (8-4-1). The team has played as well as capable more games than not. Young players, especially Larkin and Athanasiou, have shown growth from last season. And the staff deserves some credit for that.

Grade: B

Detroit Free Press LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123870 Detroit Red Wings Blashill expects forward Darren Helm to return to the lineup Wednesday against Calgary. Helm took part in the entire practice Tuesday and participated in all physical drills.

Injuries to defense another test of Red Wings' character, depth “I expect Helm to be ready,” Blashill said. “We’ll make a final determination after the pregame skate but I expect him to be ready.”

Ted Kulfan, The Detroit News Helm has been out since injuring his shoulder in New Jersey Nov. 17.

Published 4:26 p.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019

Detroit News LOADED: 01.02.2019

Detroit – It wasn’t just losing a hockey game Monday, but the fact the Red Wings lost another veteran defenseman that hurt just as badly.

Trevor Daley, who was recognized by the organization for playing in his 1,000th NHL game last week, came out Monday night to receive his gifts in a suit rather than game uniform.

Daley broke his foot in the morning skate and will miss the next 3-5 weeks.

Daley joins Danny DeKeyser (upper body) and Mike Green (lower body), who are all out with injuries, an ugly flashback to October when four veteran defensemen were out and the Wings struggled to a 1-7-2 start.

So it’s up to a defensemen like Nick Jensen to play like a savvy veteran, rookies like Dennis Cholowski and Filip Hronek to play beyond their years, and the rest of the veterans to hold the fort.

“We have great players, they’re not veteran players but they’re real good players,” said Jensen, adding how the coaches have preached to the entire team about the importance of playing at a high level and maintaining that. “That’s what it’s going to take. You can’t have guys not playing great games because that’s when it’s going to show.”

During Tuesday’s practice, there were drills on maintaining control of the puck, something the Wings will stress given how it’ll be vital to play more offense than defense for the next little while.

“Play in the offensive zone, hang onto the puck, play offense as much as we can without putting our defense in real tough spots,” coach Jeff Blashill said.

Blashill said the Wings will call up a seventh defensemen within the next couple days to fill out the roster, as DeKeyser and Green aren’t likely to return for another week or two.

Injuries have been a factor for much of this season, a key reason the Wings are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The Wings have lost five in a row and nine of their last 10.

But Blashill isn’t dwelling what has occurred to this point of the schedule, although he’s been pleased with the work ethic and competitiveness of his team.

“Would we like to have more wins? Absolutely, losing is no fun and it stinks. Winning is why you play,” Blashill said. “From that standpoint, we’re disappointed we don’t have more wins.

“I will say we’re certainly in a spot we’re being tested right now. That’s when character shines through. We have to make sure to show our character.”

Loud practice

Blashill had to be pleased with the compete level of Tuesday’s practice, as numerous sticks were banged along the glass or on the ice, in frustration or anger.

Partly it might be because of the losing lately, part of it with the way practice went, but Blashill doesn’t want frustration seeping into the daily grind.

“Some of that today, there was some competing and things like that, and that’s what is going to happen,” Blashill said. “Some execution not as well as we need, (but) in the end, we can’t be frustrated by anything that’s happened in the past. We have to play the game tomorrow, that’s the number one thing.

“We’ll continue to harp to our guys our focus is getting better and go on to the next game.”

Good to go 1123871 Edmonton Oilers Oilers pushed hardest to sign Caggiula coming out of North Dakota so they’ve had their eye on him for three years

Jason Garrison, who also went to Chicago in the Manning deal, cleared Petrovic and Manning passed their first Oilers tests on blueline waivers and has reported to their AHL farm team in Rockford, IL.

Chris Wideman, who went to Florida in the Petrovic trade, joined the Jim Matheson, Edmonton Journal Panthers in Detroit for their New Year’s Eve game but didn’t play. He’s ostensibly in the same boat there as he was here, an extra defenceman. January 1, 2019 6:41 PM MST Wideman only played 57 minutes over five Oilers games after their trade with Ottawa. Edmonton gave up a sixth-round pick in 2020 to Ottawa for

Wideman and they’re down another selection (seventh-round in 2020) You never get a second chance at a first impression, so what did we see after giving that to Toronto for forward Nolan Vesey, struggling to score from defenceman Alex Petrovic and Brandon Manning in their first with the ECHL’s Wichita. Edmonton Oilers games Saturday night against Winnipeg? This ’n’ that: The Oilers have a horrid New Year’s Eve record at 2-16-2, “Petro played 20 minutes and had a tough assignment going against with their last win 7-4 over Calgary on Dec. 31, 1985. The other win was (Mark) Scheifele and his line (of Blake Wheeler and Nikolaj Ehlers) and in Vancouver in 1982 … The Oilers have been outshot eight of their last did a nice job,” said Oilers coach Ken Hitchcock. “Manning hadn’t played nine games because of how they’re managing the puck on their side of in a while (eight straight scratches in Chicago) and he needed a practice the red-line. “There was a play in the third period against Winnipeg just so he would calm down because he wants to kill everybody. If he was inside our blue line where we turned it over four times and they got five guilty of anything in his first game, it was chasing contact.” shots on goal and three no-brainer, on-timers,” said Hitchcock … Kailer Yamamoto (upper-body) didn’t practise with the team on New Year’s Day Manning had lots of adrenaline early, but lack of game action lately and is doubtful against the Coyotes, while Alex Chiasson (knee) skated caught up to him in the third against Jets. He was on for Winnipeg’s before practice Tuesday and is gearing for L.A. on Saturday. Russell winning goal by Brendan Lemieux and blamed himself. (groin) is only 50-50 for Arizona … Andrej Sekera isn’t playing but had a busy last few days with the birth of son Marko here. When asked if he “I have to do a better job. That’s my guy the whole way and I have to sees hockey in his boy’s future, Sekera laughed: “No, school.” make sure he doesn’t touch the puck,” said Manning.

Oilers centre Kyle Brodziak, with just three goals and five points, is sheepish that Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.02.2019 are carrying so much of the load with a team that has lost six in a row.

“You have nights where your top guys aren’t going to be at their best and how do you expect to win those games if you’re not getting goals from other sources?” he asked. “We sit there and every night we watch them doing their thing and we say if we’d helped out a little more how good could we really be?” said Benning.

Hitchcock moved Ty Rattie, who started with McDavid against Winnipeg, to Brodziak’s right side for more offensive juice on the fourth line. He’s taking Zack Kassian’s spot.

“If we’re going to play Brodziak double-digits, we need more skill and speed and Rattie has been playing well and offers that to that line,” said Hitchcock. “He can control the puck and tempo and Zack will bang bodies and create room with Connor, plus he’s got a smart stick and is physical as hell on the puck, something we need.

“Connor’s line won’t be effective on the road if it’s just a rush line. They’ll have go grind and create chances that way.”

Farm call-up Joe Gambardella only got six minutes against Winnipeg, but Hitchcock liked what he saw from the fourth-liner who was leading Bakersfield in points.

“I like what he brings. He’s got big energy and he’ll get a regular shift in Arizona,” said Hitchcock.

Gambardella, 25, was like a kid in a candy store with his first NHL game. When he found out he was recalled, he was dumb-founded.

“I was on Cloud 1 when they told me,” he said. “You wait for this your whole life and no matter how many times you play it out in your head, a thousand times over, I couldn’t picture this any better. I’m just blessed to have this.”

Benning will leave the club after the Arizona game to attend his grandpa Elmer’s funeral Friday morning in St. Albert.

He’ll be back for the Saturday game in Los Angeles.

“I never knew how many people knew my grandfather until I was with him at Oil Kings games a kid and I would go into the media room and everybody was saying hello to him,” said Matt, who also said hockey’s a very small world. “(Oilers defenceman) Kris Russell says my grand-dad drove to Caroline to interview Matt and his twin brother (Ryan) in their draft year.”

Drake Caggiula hasn’t joined the Blackhawks yet after the Brandon Manning trade because of work visa issues.

He was at a local bank on New Year’s Eve cleaning up a few things. Blackhawks’ general manager Stan Bowman says Chicago and the 1123872 Edmonton Oilers The latest, of course, is his tweet from a few days ago when he hammered Flames head coach Bill Peters for the usage, or lack thereof, this season of his client, winger Michael Frolik:

LeBrun Notebook: Chiarelli under pressure to deliver in Edmonton, “Many people in Calgary have been reaching out asking why Michael agent’s tweet sparks Frolik controversy Frolik is a healthy scratch. Keeping one of the team’s most efficient and versatile forwards in the stands marginalizes and devalues a great team player. Head coach’s attempt to run a good player out of town?” By Pierre LeBrun Frolik had been scratched recently but also missed 15 games to injury. Jan 1, 2019 The first thing you need to know is that Walsh doesn’t hit Twitter like that unless he has first had a few behind-the-scenes conversations with the organization. And sources do indeed confirm that Walsh and Flames GM There is much furor among Edmonton Oilers fans this week after a Brad Treliving talked about the Frolik situation a few times over the past couple of minor trades brought in a pair of third-pairing defencemen. several weeks before Walsh finally took to social media to hammer What it tells you is the level of angst rising among Oilers fans in a season Peters. now once again going in the wrong direction. Now, as it turns out, Frolik was back in the lineup New Year’s Eve and in And so every move embattled GM Peter Chiarelli now makes will be met fact in a top-six role, back on his old line with Mikael Backlund and by the team’s fans with cynicism. He’s lost the benefit of the doubt Matthews Tkachuk. Interesting timing? My understanding from a source among that fan base, that much is clear from social media. And you get in the organization is that Peters had decided hours before the Walsh it. In a season in which rival Vancouver has risen from the ashes with its tweet that this would be the case. I don’t know that Walsh would buy that. rebuild and hated Calgary is leading the Pacific Division, Oilers fans are Regardless, it is a situation to monitor going forward. If Frolik doesn’t stay irritated. in the mix in a decent role, no doubt Walsh could eventually put pressure They certainly didn’t like the Ryan Strome-for-Ryan Spooner deal earlier on Treliving to move him. If he hasn’t already suggested that possibility. this season, either. It’s been an interesting year for a first-place Flames team that way. I’m So Chiarelli once again is under the gun. Every move questioned. It sure James Neal isn’t totally thrilled he chose Calgary in free agency in a reminds me a lot of how it got for Marc Bergevin in Montreal last year. big decision only to toil on the third line all year. Sam Bennett’s agent Remember the reaction from many Habs fans after the Max Domi-Alex Darren Ferris earlier this season shared with Treliving his disappointment Galchenyuk trade last June? with his client not playing a big enough role, something that went back to last year. Seems like that situation is OK now. A funny thing happened, though. Bergevin had a heck of an offseason, all his moves have come up roses, and now the heat is off. It’s not always easy to appease everyone. The Flames are a deeper team this year, they added Neal and Elias Lindholm in the offseason, That’s what Chiarellli needs now. Not only does he obviously need to they’re winning, and ice time has to be earned. make the playoffs, I think, to keep his job, but to do so, he needs to make a few moves before the Feb. 25 trade deadline that come up aces. I suspect Walsh would argue that Frolik never got a real chance right from the get-go, that the new coach Peters made up his mind about him Chiarelli made the coaching change to bring in veteran Ken Hitchcock before camp even started. and while that paid off with early results with the team clearly responding, injuries to top-four blue-liners Oscar Klefbom and Kris Russell have So, we’ll see where all this heads. Treliving is a level-headed guy and I hammered the team. They just can’t defend now. At least not well like the way he’s stick-handled his way around a lot of this so far this enough to win games consistently. They’ve given up 35 goals in the eight season. He’s not going to be forced into anything he’ll regret. The team is games since Klefbom and Russell went down. winning, and that’s the main thing here.

So the urgency of bringing in Brandon Manning and Alex Petrovic, No question the GM will want to act before Feb. 25. His primary need, I veteran blue-liners who can give Hitchcock more dependable defensive believe, is a left-handed, third-pair defenceman. Every team that aspires minutes, albeit as guys who are what they are: third-pairing guys. Those to win in the playoffs wants to bolster its blueline before the deadline in were just stopgap measures. one form or another. Another lefty on D is what Treliving will aim for I think, preferably a rental. The real test awaits in more meaningful moves ahead of the trade deadline. A right-winger would be one of those desired additions Monday night’s 8-5 win over the Sharks was fun to watch. The Flames perhaps, but let’s not kid ourselves, the top need is a top-four blue-liner, are a more balanced team this year. They can beat you in different ways. which of course isn’t easy to obtain. Another veteran for the D-corps would be the perfect add. The kind of insurance contenders seek. For example, I do believe Carolina and Edmonton have had the odd chat over the past several weeks although I don’t sense anything that’s gone very far. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Let me be blunt: if the Oilers were to ever ask for either Justin Faulk or Brett Pesce, the Hurricanes I am sure would then ask for Ryan Nugent- Hopkins. Which I doubt very much Chiarelli would have any interest in doing. All you’re doing at that point is trying to fill one major hole in one area but creating a crater somewhere else.

No, what I think Chiarelli hopes to somehow swing closer to Feb. 25 is upgrading the blue-line in exchange for futures.

Would Los Angeles, for example, look at a picks/prospects package in exchange for Jake Muzzin? That’s the kind of thing I believe Chiarelli has to try to look at as teams start to waive the white flag.

Problem is, the Oilers have to stay in the playoff race themselves in the meantime.

Veteran agent Allan Walsh isn’t shy to stir the pot in order to protect the interests of his clients.

Now, you can debate whether he’s doing his client a service or a disservice by bringing in that kind of attention, but you can’t debate the passion in which he fights for his players. 1123873 Edmonton Oilers Just who Chiarelli is counting on internally is hard to pinpoint. He said others have “gotta pick it up,” but options have been limited considering no other forward aside from those mentioned has scored four goals.

Peter Chiarelli’s reasoning for acquiring Brandon Manning doesn’t add up Milan Lucic’s offensive woes – two goals in 2018 – have been well documented. Ty Rattie and Ryan Spooner are trying to find regular spots in the lineup. Tobias Rieder hasn’t scored this season. Kyle Brodziak’s By Daniel Nugent-Bowman last 20-goal season came seven years ago. Zack Kassian is a Todd Bertuzzi disciple but isn’t about to be confused for Big Bert in his prime. Jan 1, 2019 Youngsters Jesse Puljujarvi and Kailer Yamamoto are still learning how to produce in the NHL.

One of the first comments Peter Chiarelli made on Monday was to state The lack of contributions from bottom-half players of late, offensive or that the deals to acquire Alex Petrovic and Brandon Manning “weren’t a otherwise, had Hitchcock irritated after the Winnipeg defeat. knee-jerk reaction.” To replace one of the better scorers in Caggiula – albeit one with a In some sense, the Oilers GM is correct. modest total – for an overpaid, bottom-pairing defenceman seems counterproductive. Before Monday’s 4-3 defeat to Winnipeg, the Oilers had dropped five straight games and were losers of six of seven, collecting just three of a And then you throw in how the trade impacts McDavid, the Oilers captain possible 14 points in the standings. They’d relinquished their playoff spot and their most important player. in the Western Conference to fall four points behind the second wild-card He and Caggiula are good friends and train together in the offseason. slot (now five after the Jets game). “I’m going to miss him a lot,” McDavid said. No. 1 blueliner Oscar Klefbom is still out for weeks and top-four rearguard Kris Russell, although close to returning, is still on the mend. He and Manning – at least to this point – have been anything but chums.

Something had to be done after allowing 31 goals in those seven games Colleague Allan Mitchell wrote about the McDavid-Manning feud after the – including 30 in the six losses. Chiarelli felt his top pair of Darnell Nurse deal was made on Sunday. Of course, it was a Manning hit when he and Adam Larsson were “taxed.” played for Philadelphia that led to McDavid breaking his collarbone in his rookie season. “We felt it was imperative that we shore up our defence right now at this critical juncture in the season,” Chiarelli said. What followed in the next matchup was a ton of jawing on the ice from both players and a public venting from McDavid towards an opponent – a It’s tough to argue that. It’s just hard to fathom how Manning, in basically unheard of move by him before or since. particular, is a solution for plenty of reasons. Chiarelli said he consulted with McDavid last season when he considered Let’s start with the money. The 28-year-old is under contract for another acquiring Manning from the Flyers and claimed his captain had no season at $2.25 million. This isn’t an insignificant price tag considering problem with having Manning on the team. Chiarelli projects him as a fifth or sixth defenceman and Ken Hitchcock referred to him as “no-nonsense third-pair guy.” McDavid poured cold water on any previous beef with Manning.

Manning played 12:54 in his Oilers debut, all at even strength with Matt “It was a long time ago. That’s all I’ll say about that. It’s a non-issue,” he Benning. He failed to tie up Brendan Lemieux’s stick, which resulted in a said. deflection from the slot and the winning goal with 5:58 left in the third. Manning downplayed the past, too: “When I heard Edmonton, that wasn’t After the game, he said he was nervous because he hadn’t appeared in a the first thing that popped in my head.” game recently. Hockey history is full of stories of hated adversaries later hitting it off as Why is that? teammates. Perhaps McDavid and Manning will do the same.

Manning was scratched in Chicago’s last eight games, unable to crack But why even go down that road, especially when it’s not like Manning is the lineup of a team that had three fewer points than the Oilers in three slated for the top four on the blueline? more contests before Monday night. That doesn’t bode well, even if Chiarelli claims Manning was a victim of Chicago’s coaching change to That leads to another question: Will Manning even have a regular spot on Jeremy Colliton from Joel Quenneville. the Oilers when their defencemen are healthy?

The fact is that Manning’s underlying numbers were poor in Chicago – a Chiarelli sees Manning as an upgrade over Kevin Gravel because he has 46.93 Corsi For percentage and minus-17 goal share at 5-on-5 in almost more experience, brings more offence, and is “meaner.” 360 minutes, per Natural Stat Trick – while mostly playing on the bottom That appears to give him an inside track on a job for now. pair. This is not a player who should have been highly coveted and wasn’t, as colleague Scott Powers wrote for The Athletic Chicago. Russell is close to a return. It’s unlikely Klefbom and Andrej Sekera are back until February. At that point, there will be quite the logjam, “Manning was deemed untradeable by a lot of people around the especially since all three are left shots like Manning. (Russell has mostly league,” Powers wrote. “The assumption was it would cost the played the right side with Nurse this season.) Blackhawks a valuable asset or two if someone agreed to take on Manning.” The only guy Manning might be capable of supplanting on ability is Sekera, who has been limited to 36 games over the last two seasons Instead, it was the Oilers who gave up assets. because of injuries. But considering Sekera has a no-movement clause Jason Garrison wasn’t playing when the Oilers were injury-free on the until the end of the season and carries a $5.5-million AAV for an blueline. There’s no reason to get riled up about his departure. The additional two years, the Oilers will likely give him every chance to re- Blackhawks have already placed him on waivers, which he cleared. establish himself.

Drake Caggiula, however, was a useful piece making less money than Add in Nurse – another lefty – and Larsson, plus Petrovic and that’s a Manning. On a team starving for secondary scoring, it was Caggiula’s crowded blueline. seven goals that ranked fifth behind Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Right now, Benning and Caleb Jones are in the mix, too. Jones earned Alex Chiasson and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. praise from Chiarelli and Hitchcock played him 23:56 alongside Larsson “Any time you make a trade for a player you have time for is difficult. We against the Jets. The ice time was second on the Oilers behind only felt that we wanted to work from the back-end out right now with this Nurse. The coach called his efforts “outstanding.” problem,” Chiarelli said. “We felt that it’s incumbent on the other players A lot can change in a few games – not to mention a few weeks – and to pick up the slack.” Jones is still on his entry-level contract, meaning he doesn’t require waivers to be sent to the AHL. He looks like a capable defender though, and that doesn’t help Manning’s cause. As for the addition of Petrovic, he should add some value despite Chiarelli’s admission he doesn’t consider him a top-four defenceman either. Petrovic skated with Nurse in his debut and played 20:21.

Chiarelli said he likes Petrovic’s range, toughness and defensive game. Petrovic had a 49.75 Corsi For percentage in almost 400 minutes with the Panthers, per Natural Stat Trick. He replaces Chris Wideman, who clearly wasn’t a Ken Hitchcock favourite anyway.

The Oilers had to dip into their LTIR money created by Sekera’s absence to acquire the 26-year-old. Considering Petrovic’s $1.95-million contract comes off the books in the summer when he becomes an unrestricted free agent, it’s a relatively low-risk move.

That trade is fine, although giving up a third-round pick in the upcoming draft isn’t ideal.

The issue is the other player Chiarelli acquired – and the reasons are plenty.

Chiarelli insists the trades weren’t made in haste, but there are so many red flags when it comes to Manning.

Perhaps a little more consideration was required.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123874 Edmonton Oilers next fall, he suggests “[Persson is] 6-foot-1, he is pretty quick, quicker than last year, sees the ice well, makes good passes and runs the power play well. He has a good shot when he uses it. I see no problem for him Oilers No. 9 prospect, Winter 2018: Joel Persson being able to jump in and compete for a job.”

There are things we can look at to get a closer view of Persson as a defensive player, including 5-on-5 goal differential. If he’s a chaos By Allan Mitchell defender, then giving up a high rate of goals at even strength would be an indicator. Jan 1, 2019 Persson even-strength goal differential, 2017-18: 34-16 (+18) in 723:54

(1.33 even-strength GA per 60) Over the past decade, the Edmonton Oilers have signed all manner of Persson even-strength goal differential, 2018-19: 14-16 (-2) in 467:52 European hockey players, some of whom have reached the NHL for a (2.05 even-strength GA per 60) time. Who can forget the stylings of Lennart Petrell or the appearance of Anton Belov, who single-handedly brought the word “lumbering” back into Växjö Lakers allowed 71 even-strength goals in 52 games during 2017- the hockey conversation. If you are an Oilers fan of a decade or longer, 18, giving us a team total of 1.36 goals against per game. In 2018-19, it’s likely you view a European signing by the organization with an eye roll Växjö has allowed 50 even-strength goals in 29 games, giving us a total and no expectations. Joel Persson might just change your mind. of 1.72 goals-against per game. Bottom line? The Lakers are bleeding a little more per game this season, as is Persson. An estimate would have Previously No. 9 on the Winter list Edmonton’s signing doing less than average good works at 5-on-5, but December 2007: G Devan Dubnyk (453 NHL games) the performance appears to fall well short of what might be called chaos.

December 2008: D Cody Wild (0) The best description of Persson I’ve read comes from Zanier, whom I interviewed right after the young defenceman was signed by the Oilers. December 2009: L Teemu Hartikainen (52) Zanier: Right shot, 6-foot-1, 185-190 pounds. He is a great story, played December 2010: C (215) last season (2016-17) in Division 3 and was signed into Växjö as a project that might have potential. By October he was quarterbacking the December 2011: R Tyler Pitlick (173) power play and racking up the points. By the end of the year, he was in December 2012: R Tyler Pitlick (173) the top pairing for the champion Växjö Lakers. He sees the ice really well and he surprised everyone this season. December 2013: D Martin Gernat (0) Why is Joel Persson No. 9? December 2014: C Kyle Platzer (0) My list gives no special value to players who are close to NHL-ready. It December 2015: D Ethan Bear (18) values offence and a range of skills while punishing lack of speed. Persson’s scouting report is rock-solid, and math likes him, too, although December 2016: L Jujhar Khaira (128) the goals-against at even strength suggest close attention in that area. I December 2017: L Jujhar Khaira (128) considered him as early as No. 4 on the winter list, settling on No. 9 mostly due to a relatively short résumé of success at high levels, and the We can chalk up Dubnyk’s presence this late in the rankings as a clear presence of Evan Bouchard (who may take everyone’s lunch) on miss by the author, but at the time Dubynk didn’t look like he was going Edmonton’s roster. to flourish in the AHL. Anton Lander, Tyler Pitlick and Jujhar Khaira would have to be considered successes based on NHL games played When asked about Persson’s season, Zanier said, “After the national compared with draft number. Ethan Bear has already played NHL team experience at the beginning of November, he came back a different games, a good sign. player. He played his best hockey, much more self-confidence, and was a difference-maker every game. Persson levelled out in December. I Year over year think he might be a bit tired with a lot of hockey he’s played the first four Joel Persson will be applying for a specific NHL job next fall: No. 3 right- months with SHL, national team and Champions League. I expect him to side defence and power-play quarterback. His competition may include get better in January when their schedule isn’t so intense as it’s been. Evan Bouchard, Edmonton’s impressive first-round selection from June They have 23 games left in their season and are in a tight race to get into 2018, so it’ll be important for him to make a strong impression. In his two the playoffs, with only 11 points separating the top 10 teams.” SHL seasons, Persson is doing fine work with the man advantage. Year Joel Persson was a worthwhile signing, and he’s a fascinating hockey One (below) saw the Växjö Lakers 5-on-4 feature brilliant youngster Elias player. I have him in the range of prospects where quality of skills and Pettersson, who is currently filling NHL nets as a Vancouver Canucks depth of résumé aren’t quite enough to make the NHL. He’s going to rookie. So it was important for Persson to perform well in 2018-19 without need some luck and a coach who needs his player type. Persson is in Pettersson: the right organization to make it happen, but Evan Bouchard could block Persson power play, 2017-18: 4-20-24 in 146:21 (9.74 points per 60) his NHL path.

Persson power play, 2018-19: 3-7-10 in 91:50 (6.54 points per 60)

The Lakers have scored 18 power-play goals in 29 games this season The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 (.620 PPG per game), compared with 42 in 52 in 2017-18 (.808 PPG per game). Persson’s contribution offensively this season is basically identical (he is in on about 55 percent of Växjö’s power-play goals) to last season. Good news, in that he’s delivering the same level of results without Pettersson, bad news in that Pettersson was, in fact, driving the bus on the power play by some margin. If Persson makes it to the No. 1 power play in Edmonton, he’ll be gifted Connor McDavid, and that could work for the native of Kristainstad, Sweden.

Chaos defenceman?

Oilers fans can be suspicious of puck-moving defencemen, having seen several “chaos blue” over the years (Marc-Andre Bergeron, Phil Larsen). In conversations with Swedish hockey commentator Mike Zanier (a former Oilers goalie does color on Lakers’ broadcasts), he said Persson brings defensive ability along with the offence. “I think he looks better this year than he did last year. He looks faster, he looks stronger. I think he’s playing really well,” Zanier informed me earlier in the SHL season. As for 1123875 Florida Panthers In the second trade, the Panthers’ depth on the blueline allowed them to pick up a draft choice without too much of a cost in terms of moving Petrovic, who was their second-round pick in 2010 and will be a free Panthers set milestones in Monday’s surprising comeback victory against agent at the end of this season. Red Wings THIS AND THAT

▪ Credit the Panthers’ coaches for challenging what would have been BY WALTER VILLA Detroit’s fourth goal, which was overturned due to an offsides violation.

JANUARY 01, 2019 12:10 PM ▪ Florida faced a season-low 20 shots and won for the first time this season in a game they had zero power-play goals.

▪ Panthers winger Troy Brouwer played his 800th career game. The Panthers ended 2018 with a bang — winning for the first time in franchise history when trailing by three goals and on the road. ▪ Panthers second-line forward Nick Bjugstad, out with an upper-body injury, is skating extensively as he prepares to return. They beat the Detroit Red Wings 4-3 in a shootout win Monday. The Panthers won their first shootout game of the season and picked up their first short-handed goal, as well. Miami Herald LOADED: 01.02.2019 The Panthers’ reward: more airline points. Starting with Thursday’s visit to the Buffalo Sabres, the Panthers will play seven of their next nine games on the road.

Fortunately, the Panthers are a solid 9-9-2 overall on the road this season, including 4-1-0 in their past five games away from home.

A trend the Panthers would like to reverse is that of starting slowly. The Panthers have fallen behind at least 1-0 in four consecutive first periods.

It has been a major problem the past few days. They fell behind 2-0 to the Montreal Canadiens within the first three minutes of Friday’s 5-3 loss. They fell behind 1-0 to the Philadelphia Flyers less than two minutes into Saturday’s game but rallied to win, and they were in a 3-0 hole in the first period on Monday.

Here are four more takeaways regarding the Panthers.

1: The Panthers lifted starting goalie Roberto Luongo after he allowed three goals in the first period, making just five saves. (The first two goals were virtually unstoppable by anyone.)

Reimer came in and stopped all 12 shots he faced plus three more in the shootout. Among the players he stopped in the shootout was Frans Nielsen, the NHL’s career leader in shootout goals.

Reimer has won three consectuive games. He has allowed just four goals and has posted a .947 save percentage during that span. After a slow start this season, he has improved his record to 8-7-3.

2: Winger Jonathan Huberdeau is leading the Panthers in scoring with 44 points. He carried the Panthers to victory on Saturday with the game- tying assist and the go-ahead goal, and he had the only shootout goal of the game Monday.

“His vision is outstanding,” teammate Mike Hoffman said of Huberdeau. “Some people on the bench or on TV don’t even see his passes.”

Huberdeau is also 3-for-3 in shootout attempts this season.

3: The Panthers’ goals in regulation Monday were scored by rookie Henrik Borgstrom, 21; Jared McCann, 22; and rookie Jayce Hawryluk, who turned 23 on Tuesday.

McCann had the short-handed goal, the first of his career; Borgstrom has four goals in 12 career games; and Hawryluk has three goals in eight games.

4: The Panthers and general manager Dale Tallon made two trades in two days, acquiring a draft pick in each exchange.

On Saturday, the Panthers got a fifth-round pick from the Toronto Maple Leafs for third-string goalie Michael Hutchinson, 28, who was playing in the .

On Sunday, the Panthers got a third-round pick and defenseman Chris Wideman, 28, from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for defenseman Alex Petrovic, 26. Wideman was a healthy scratch Monday.

In the first trade, the Panthers clearly made the determination that one of their top prospects, Samuel Montembeault, 22, is ready to be their third- string goalie. He is in his second season in the AHL, and, given how injury-prone Luongo and Reimer have been, Montebeault could be called up at any time. 1123876 Florida Panthers Hoffman was an All-Star in Ottawa before a cyberbullying controversy broke out with teammate Erik Karlsson.

Tallon tried prying Hoffman away from Ottawa, but GM Pierre Dorion was So close, yet so far: An uneven 2018 comes to a close for the Florida apparently against trading one of his top players within the division, so he Panthers requested a price Tallon found too high.

San Jose got Hoffman instead, then flipped him to the Panthers for two By George Richards draft picks just hours later.

Jan 1, 2019 Through the first 38 games this season, Hoffman leads the team with 18 goals and his 36 points rank third. He is signed through next season.

— Center Sasha Barkov was named captain during training camp this DETROIT — The Florida Panthers wrapped up 2018 with a hard-earned fall, and he is quickly becoming recognized as one of the top centers in 4-3 shootout victory against the Red Wings about 90 minutes before the the league. ball dropped in Times Square. Barkov appeared in his first All-Star Game last January in Tampa and With the victory, Florida goes into 2019 with momentum (it has won six of has established himself as Florida’s best player just about every night. eight) but still has a long way to go to make the postseason. In a 4-3 victory over Toronto on “” on Dec. 15, And while much has changed over the past 12 months, so much has Barkov scored his first NHL hat trick as he buried the game-winner in remained the same. overtime.

When the Panthers opened 2018, they were five points out of a playoff “Barkov,” Toronto coach Mike Babcock said, “was the best player on the spot. They finished one point short of the postseason despite earning 96 ice by 10 miles.” points. — Florida celebrated the franchise’s 25th anniversary on opening night “It took a while to get over it,” goalie Roberto Luongo said before this by having many of the original members of the 1993-94 team on the ice season began. — in new jerseys — to welcome the 2018-19 team.

“We were right there. You only get so many chances to get into the “When I went to Florida, I thought it was going to be a beach ride, a golf playoffs and make a run at it. Falling short of it, especially after battling ride,” original goalie John Vanbiesbrouck said of joining the expansion so hard the final months of the year, it was just frustrating how it all Panthers. ended up.” “It became a real hockey ride. The environment that was created by On Tuesday, Florida finds itself six points back of the Islanders for the management set a good path. That led to a good culture.” final wild-card position in the Eastern Conference with 44 games left. The lows The Panthers play their first game of 2019 on Thursday in Buffalo. Few South Floridians will ever forget the tragic mass shooting at Here is a look back at 2018 for the Florida Panthers: Parkland’s Stoneman Douglas High School on Feb. 14 in which 17 lives were lost. The highs The tragedy hit close to home for the Panthers. The Panthers were the talk of the NHL at the end of the 2017-18 regular season as they made a frantic, yet ultimately failed run to the playoffs. Not only do a number of players live in or near Parkland, but the team’s training facility is in nearby Coral Springs. Florida won 25 of its final 35 games only to fall one point short of qualifying for the postseason. The Panthers were on the road in Vancouver at the time of the shooting and were shaken by the news coverage coming from back home. Yet there were plenty of positives to take out of the experience. When the team returned to play host to the Capitals a week later, the — Evgenii Dadonov, the one-time Florida prospect who returned to the game became a place to gather, to mourn and to cheer. team after five seasons in Russia, was a key contributor last season as he ended up second on the team in goals (28) to Vincent Trocheck (31) Luongo, whose family calls Parkland home, addressed the crowd before and accounted for 65 points. taking his position inside the net.

Dadonov, now in the second year of a three-season contract, remains With “MSD Strong” signs replacing advertising on the dasher boards one of Florida’s top players. around the ice, “MSD” patches on their jerseys and Douglas Eagles decals on their helmets, the Panthers stood strong against Alex Ovechkin — With Luongo and James Reimer both hurt last season, Florida was and the eventual Stanley Cup champs, pulling out a 3-2 win as Luongo forced to turn to Finnish goalie Harri Sateri. made 33 saves. They crossed their fingers and hoped for the best. “I remember the first 10 minutes of that game; my head was not into it,” Sateri may have saved the season as he got the Panthers back into the Luongo said. “A couple of times, they took a shot and I didn’t know if I playoff mix by winning four straight from Jan. 30-Feb. 6. had it or not. It was a tough start, but luckily they didn’t score. Then I was able to settle in and we were able to come out with an incredible win at Luongo and Reimer came back and carried things the rest of the way. the end.”

— Luongo played in his 1,000th regular-season game at the end of last Luongo was a finalist for the Bill Masterton award, and the Panthers plan season and the team celebrated the rare feat — he’s just the third goalie to wear Douglas decals again this coming February to commemorate the to hit that mark — when his former team, Vancouver, came to Sunrise first anniversary of the shooting. this fall. — On the ice, the Panthers made a furious push toward the postseason “It’s not easy to play for this long, but it’s a little tougher these days but narrowly ran out of time. A rough start to the season could not be because of the injuries,’’ he said in October. overcome.

“You feel like you’re 25 and want to play 75 games a year. But the reality Florida won 25 of its final 35 games, but in the final weeks of the season, is I have been playing for over 20 years in the NHL. There’s a little wear a handful of head-scratching losses did the Panthers in. and tear. Sometimes you feel it more than others. Sometimes I have a difficult time with that.” Although the Panthers beat the likes of Washington, Pittsburgh, Toronto, Boston and Nashville during their run, home losses to non-playoff teams — GM Dale Tallon pulled off one of the biggest trades of the offseason derailed their hopes. by acquiring Mike Hoffman from San Jose in June. H. Wayne Huizenga, who brought not only hockey to South Florida in 1992 but major-league baseball as well, also died this past year. Both remained big parts of the Panthers over the years, and both are The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 honored with banners hanging from the rafters at the BB&T Center.

“He’s the main reason I came here,” Tallon said of Torrey. “He was a guy I relied on, a guy I could trust not only in hockey but in life. He was a real important guy to me. I learned a lot from him in how to treat people and how to be loyal and generous and all of those things.

“He was a great gentleman, and I think all of us would do well to emulate his way. Everyone liked him. He always gave people his time. To lose that, he’s with us, but I miss him every day. I really miss him. After I lost my father, this was a guy I relied on and he made that easy on me.”

— With the hard charge to end the previous season, the Panthers came into this one with plenty of excitement and high expectations.

By adding Hoffman in the offseason, the Panthers felt they were a better team than they were at the end of last season and were ready to contend in the Atlantic Division.

But another tough start was to come.

Florida lost Luongo to injury in the season-opener at Tampa Bay and dropped eight of 10 games before he returned Nov. 2.

Reimer and new third goalie Michael Hutchinson struggled to hold things down, and Florida went to Helsinki for a double-header against Winnipeg with wins in just two of its first nine games in October.

The Panthers snapped a two-game slide on Nov. 19 in Ottawa but lost a key piece when Trocheck went down chasing a puck and had to be taken off the ice on a stretcher.

Trocheck had surgery on his fractured ankle the following day and has been out ever since. The Panthers hope for a return in February.

Moving out

The Panthers said goodbye to one of their longer-tenured players on Sunday when defenseman Alexander Petrovic was traded to Edmonton for Chris Wideman and a third-round draft pick.

A second-round draft pick by the Panthers in 2010, the Edmonton native made his NHL debut with the Panthers in 2013 and played in 254 games over the course of seven seasons in Florida.

“I’m really excited — it’s pretty cool I get to play in my hometown,” he told reporters in Edmonton before playing his first game with the Oilers on Monday. “I played my whole career in Florida, was drafted there, and I have nothing bad to say about the organization. They helped me get where I am today, the man I am today.”

Other notable departures over the past 12 months included Sateri (to Detroit) and veteran forward Radim Vrbata. Hutchinson, who signed with Florida in the summer, was traded to Toronto last week.

Aside from losing Trocheck to injury, Florida has been without Jamie McGinn all season due to a back injury, and former captain Derek MacKenzie was lost in the opener with a shoulder injury.

Moving in

Hoffman was the not the only newcomer to the Panthers. They welcomed in a number of new faces in 2018, including Troy Brouwer, after Calgary bought out the final two years of his contract in August.

Also, four players have made their NHL debuts with Florida this season: Juho Lammikko, Jacob MacDonald, Jayce Hawryluk and Anthony Greco.

Center Henrik Borgstrom played his first NHL game last spring after leaving the and was called up from the minors along with Hawryluk last month.

Defenseman Bogdan Kiselevich, who spent parts of nine seasons in the KHL, also made his NHL debut after signing with Florida as a free agent over the summer.

Rookie goalie Samuel Montembeault was called up to the Panthers last season but did not play in a game. He appears to be the next man up if Luongo or Reimer were to be hurt again.

Wideman, who came over from Edmonton in the Petrovic deal, joined the Panthers in Detroit and spent New Year’s Eve with his new teammates — but his team debut will come in 2019.

1123877 Los Angeles Kings

LA Times: LOADED: 01.02.2019

Kings can’t wake offense as Vegas pitches shutout

By CURTIS ZUPKE

JAN 01, 2019 | 10:50 PM

LAS VEGAS

Judging by how the Kings went over to greet Jack Campbell at the horn, one would have thought it was a victory.

They tapped helmets with their beloved teammate in what looked like congratulations, but it was essentially apologies for not giving Campbell’s game any justice Tuesday.

The Kings trudged back to their dressing room with a 2-0 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights in which Campbell’s career-high 46 saves was their only lifeline in a New Year’s Day downer.

“Unreal,” Jake Muzzin said. “He gave us a chance to be in that game. He played his heart out. Hell of an effort by ‘Soup’ [Campbell]. We’ve got to be better for him.”

In his first game back from knee surgery, Campbell’s only missed puck was a power-play shot by Brandon Pirri 3 minutes, 43 seconds into the third period, and that glanced off Campbell’s outstretched glove. He was still game to stop 19 other shots in the third period before Vegas wrapped it with Alex Tuch’s empty-net goal.

To think, Campbell felt off early in his first game since Nov. 10.

“I felt kind of brutal, actually,” Campbell said. “In the first period, I was kind of excited, nervous, but in a good way. But I haven’t felt that excited in a while. It took me 20 minutes to get kind of settled in. After that, I found my game.”

That hasn’t been difficult for Campbell at T-Mobile Arena and its booming sound system and party atmosphere. He got his first NHL win here last season in a 41-save effort that represented a career revival.

“I think it’s just a great building,” Campbell said. “The fans are amazing. They have a really good team over there. You’ve got to be on your A- game to play well against those guys. Credit to them, they always come out and play well and the fans always show up. It’s a fun building to play in. More fun to win here. Next time, hopefully.”

Fortunately for the Kings, that won’t be until the regular-season finale. In what could have jokingly been billed as the Hangover Bowl, Campbell looked like the only Kings player who didn’t play the night before. The Kings arrived at their hotel in Las Vegas less than a minute before midnight on New Year’s Eve and caught the fireworks show just after they stepped off the bus following a win in Colorado. It couldn’t have translated worse to Tuesday.

“You could just look at them, the group was tired,” coach Willie Desjardins said. “That’s the bottom line. We were just tired.”

The Kings were outshot 48-17 and did not put a shot on goal in the second period until almost the 18-minute mark. Tyler Toffoli was stopped by goalie Marc-Andre Fleury on a breakaway early in the third period in probably their best chance.

It was the fourth matchup between the teams in a 24-day span.

“Like playoffs again,” Muzzin said. “I’ve seen enough of them for a while.”

Pirri’s goal had some controversy because replays showed Ryan Reaves might have played the puck with a broken stick. But the Kings didn’t challenge it and it hardly mattered in the big picture.

The Kings hit the halfway mark of the season last inthe Pacific Division and nine points out of a playoff spot. They had talked about gaining confidence and playing better in their own zone and, despite the loss, Desjardins wasn’t going to let one game erase a late first-half up-tick.

“We’ve had some pretty good games,” Desjardins said. “The past 10 games, it’s not like they’ve been bad. This is a tough night. It’s a tough building to come into. We didn’t have our legs. You always have to be honest. Tonight, we just didn’t have our legs.” 1123878 Los Angeles Kings

What we learned from the Kings' 3-2 victory over the Avalanche

By CURTIS ZUPKE

JAN 01, 2019 | 8:00 AM

What we learned from the Kings' 3-2 victory over the Avalanche

The Kings took the long way to victory, but they eventually got there with some young and older players putting their hands on the steering wheel.

Sean Walker and Dustin Brown highlighted a 3-2 overtime win against the Colorado Avalanche on Monday night for the Kings’ fifth win in six games before they officially hit the halfway point of the season Tuesday.

It was hard-earned and perhaps a touch of the old Kings’ way, eking out a close game with defense and goaltending. Their overtime magic helped, too.

Here’s what we learned:

The rookie defenseman got his first goal in his 13th game; he’s fit in well when paired with Jake Muzzin. Walker has shown a flair for offense and putting the puck on net, and his wraparound score was out of a goal scorer’s playbook.

“As every game goes on, it’s in the back of your head,” Walker said. “You want to get your first one out of the way. It was nice over these last couple of games getting more chances, and finally one went in, and counted.”

Drew Doughty has said that Walker and Muzzin have arguably been their best defensive pair lately, and he noted that Walker was an undrafted free agent signing.

“He got one [goal] called off, so he got two first goals tonight,” Doughty said. “But he’s been playing well for us. He’s a great skater. He’s got good vision. Good passer. Good shot. He was a steal … sweet steal.”

Anze Kopitar met the challenge

The captain has probably had too many quiet games in the first half of the season, but there are nights like Monday where he flashes his MVP credentials.

He certainly rose to the occasion in a matchup with fellow Hart Trophy finalist Nathan MacKinnon. Kopitar had two assists and was denied his 300th career goal by Erik Johnson’s leg save late in the game.

Kopitar also provided key penalty killing in one of his most noticeable all- around games.

The Kings haven’t dominated faceoffs like they usually do, but lately they’ve come through, and on Monday, they won the overtime faceoff and never let Colorado touch the puck.

That led to the Kings’ NHL-leading 37th overtime win since the three-on- three format was implemented in the 2015-16 season.

The next-closest team, the Chicago Blackhawks, have 30.

LA Times: LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123879 Los Angeles Kings 41 saves in a 4-1 win over the Golden Knights last February. … Kings forward Anze Kopitar, who has recorded points in eight of the last 11 games (two goals, seven assists) had his four-game point streak Kings’ Jack Campbell stars under heavy pressure in loss to Vegas snapped. He is one goal shy of 300 in his career.

By STAFF AND NEWS SERVICE REPORTS Orange County Register: LOADED: 01.02.2019

PUBLISHED: January 1, 2019 at 9:37 pm | UPDATED: January 1, 2019 at 11:00 PM

LAS VEGAS — The Kings would be hard-pressed to beat anyone on a night when they get outshot 48-17, let alone one of the league’s stingiest teams.

Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 17 shots for his league-leading sixth shutout and the Vegas Golden Knights beat the Kings 2-0 on Tuesday night.

Brandon Pirri continued his amazing scoring run for the Golden Knights in the third period, when he jumped on a loose puck at the right faceoff dot and sniped his sixth goal and eighth point in seven games this season. Pirri has nine goals in nine games since joining Vegas last season.

Fleury, who improved to 7-0-3 in his last 10 appearances dating to Dec. 9, earned his 23rd win in his 37th start – both league-bests – and Alex Tuch added an empty-netter in the final minute.

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Kings goalie Jack Campbell, who was reactivated on Monday, had a career-high 46 saves, including several spectacular stops in the second period when the Golden Knights had 18 shots.

While it’s normally Fleury who is diving between the pipes making flashy saves, Campbell’s biggest save came during a Golden Knights power play. Vegas’ Jonathan Marchessault fired a one-timer at a wide open net, but Campbell came flying from the right post to the left to block the shot and keep the game scoreless.

“It felt kind of brutal in the first period, I was kind of like excited nervous in a good way,” said Campbell, whose first NHL win was inside T-Mobile, where he made 41 saves in a 4-1 win over the Golden Knights last February. “It took me 20 minutes to get kind of settled in and I felt like I found my game after that. I just needed one more save.”

The Kings have gone on a 5-2-1 tear in their last eight games to move out of last place in the West, one point ahead of St. Louis, which has 34.

The Golden Knights, who are 8-1-3 in their last 12 games, beat the Kings for the second time in four days after winning on Saturday at Staples Center.

Boosted by a four-game win streak after a three-day Christmas break, the Golden Knights have 52 points to tie Calgary atop the Pacific Division, and both are even with Winnipeg in the West. However, the Flames have played three fewer games than Vegas, and the Jets have four games in hand.

“Since the Christmas break, we’ve played great hockey,” Gallant said. “It feels like we’ve got a lot more energy in our step and the guys are playing well and working hard. So, I love the way we played the last four games.”

The Golden Knights have also improved defensively during the four- game streak, allowing just two power-play goals in 14 opportunities (85.7 percent), while Fleury and Malcolm Subban have stopped 106 of 109 shots (97.2 save percentage).

“Right now, I think we’re clicking in a lot of different areas, we’re working hard, we’re going to the net putting pucks there and playing the percentages,” said Cody Eakin, who assisted on Pirri’s goal. “Defensively we’re doing pretty good and I think that’s been throughout the whole lineup.”

NOTES

Vegas forward Cody Eakin is one game shy of his 500th, while forward Jonathan Marchessault in one away from 300. … Kings defenseman Drew Doughty has played in 369 consecutive games, dating to Oct. 8, 2014. … Campbell’s first NHL win was inside T-Mobile, where he made 1123880 Los Angeles Kings That’s when you really want your power play to pot one or maybe two and you want to win that battle. You know, they got one and we didn’t get any, so there’s the game.

JANUARY 1 RAPID REACTION (FEAT. DARYL EVANS): GOLDEN Jack Campbell, on how amped up he was to be back in the lineup: KNIGHTS 2, KINGS 0 I just missed it. I missed the guys a lot and I missed being out there, so it was nice to be back last night and get out on the bench and watch the ZACH DOOLEY boys get a huge win and kind of got me ready to go today. You know, just wanted to get two points, so it’s good to be back, but winning is the most JANUARY 1, 2019 important thing.

Campbell, on whether he felt dialed in from the start or if it took time to settle in: Willie Desjardins, on Jack Campbell’s return to the lineup: I felt kind of brutal actually from the first period. I was kind of like, excited- Obviously he had a good night. I think a tough situation coming in, was nervous, like in a good way, but I haven’t felt that excited in awhile. So it going to be a tough game. He does a lot of things good, not only saving took me 20 minutes to kind of get settled in. Felt like I found my game the puck, he handles the puck well too. I thought he was really solid for after that, but just needed one more save. us back there, but I expect him to play well. I have a lot of confidence in him. Campbell, on if the heavy workload helps him stay engaged when he’s feeling “excited-nervous”: Desjardins, on the team’s energy level and the challenges of playing the second game of a back-to-back: That’s a good point. I think it helps a lot. It’s tough you know, trying to get the conditioning back, but the only way to do it really is get out there. I Well, it looked tough. We’ve played lots of good hockey and tonight we thought the guys played hard and starting to feel better each day, so just didn’t have it. You know, we had a couple chances where we had a going to try to keep getting better so we win some more games. couple power plays and we just didn’t have any legs on the power play even. It was a game where you could just look at them and the group Campbell, on the atmosphere in the building: was tired. That was just the bottom line, we were just tired and we just didn’t have the legs tonight. I think it’s just a great building. I mean, the fans are amazing, they have a really good team over there. You’ve got to be ready and on your A-game Desjardins, on whether fatigue was specifically a factor in the second to play well against those guys. I mean, credit to them, they always play period: well and the fans always show up, so fun building to play in. More fun to win here, so next time hopefully. I think it showed right from the start. I thought we had a pretty good first period. I thought we hung in there in the first, but our first shifts in the first Post-game Notes two, three minutes of the second period, we just didn’t have legs coming out there and you know, they’re a good team. They play smart, they put it –With the loss, Los Angeles fell to 4-3-1 all-time against Vegas, a record behind your D, they make your D turn and you’ve got to give them credit that includes a home mark of 2-2-0. These teams have one game for the way they play, but we just didn’t have the legs. remaining: April 6 at Staples Center.

Desjardins, on whether he saw that Ryan Reaves played the puck with a – With the loss, Los Angeles moved to 11-13-1 against the Western broken stick on the Vegas goal: Conference, 7-7-1 against the Pacific Division, 3-6 in games decided by two goals, 4-19-2 when conceding the first goal, 9-9-1 when tied after the Yeah, I couldn’t, but I think there was comments that he might have first period, 5-4-1 when tied after the second period and 10-14-2 when played it that way, but that wasn’t the call, so that’s how it goes. outshot by their opponent.

Desjardins, on how much more important the special teams battle is – Goaltender Jack Campbell made an NHL career-high 46 saves in when the legs aren’t there: defeat. The 47 shots he faced tied an NHL career high from his NHL debut against Anaheim on October 20, 2013, when he was a member of Well, special teams battle wouldn’t have even been a factor if it wasn’t for the Dallas Stars. Jack. Like, we weren’t close enough even. But if we would’ve won that battle, we would’ve won the game with that performance, but that’s part – Los Angeles attempted 37 shots (17 on goal, 16 blocked, 4 missed). of it. Some nights you’re not there and your goalies bail you out and Jack Vegas attempted 88 shots (48 on goal, 22 blocked, 18 missed). Forward played great tonight and we just couldn’t capitalize. Tyler Toffoli led the Kings with three shots on goal, while 17 of the 18 Vegas skaters recorded a shot on goal, led by seven from forward Desjardins, on whether he’ll sit down and assess where the group is at, Jonathan Marchessault. being exactly at the halfway point of the season: – The Kings won 26-of-54 faceoffs (47%). Anze Kopitar won 17-of-26, Yeah we always do, but we’ve had some pretty good games. These ten Nate Thompson won 5-of-11, Adrian Kempe won 1-of-9 and Jeff Carter games, it’s not like we’ve been bad. This is a tough night. It’s a tough won 3-of-8. building to come into, we didn’t have our legs and you know, you always have to be honest and tonight we just didn’t have our legs. You couldn’t judge us on what we had, we just didn’t have our legs. LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.02.2019 Jake Muzzin, on Campbell’s performance:

Unreal, unreal. Gave us a chance to be in that game, played his heart out, played aggressive. We’ve got to be better for him.

Muzzin, on the challenge of amping up the energy for the second game of a back-to-back:

I mean, back-to-backs, everybody’s got to do them, so we need more from everyone. I don’t think we worked hard enough tonight to give ourselves a chance to win. Obviously didn’t generate much. Power play was slow. It was just a tough game. You know, they did a good job of clogging us through the neutral zone. Tough to get any forecheck momentum or O-zone play. We’ve got to execute better through our neutral zone to give us a better opportunity, but Soup was unreal tonight, so it was good.

Muzzin, on the added importance of special teams battles when the team is tired: 1123881 Los Angeles Kings

GAME 41: LOS ANGELES AT VEGAS

JESSI MCDONALD

JANUARY 1, 2019

GAME THREADS

Vegas Golden Knights 2, Los Angeles Kings 0

SOG: LAK – 17; VGK – 48

PP: LAK – 0/2; VGK – 0/3

First Period

No Scoring

Second Period

No Scoring

Third Period

VGK PPG – Brandon Pirri (6) (Cody Eakin, Nate Schmidt); 3:43

VGK ENG – Alex Tuch (14) (Deryk Engelland, Brandon Pirri); 19:27

Los Angeles Kings (16-21-3) at Vegas Golden Knights (23-15-4)

Tuesday, January 1, 2019, 6:00 p.m. PT

T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV

Referees: #20 Tim Peel, #34 Brad Meier

Linesmen: #52 Shandor Alphonso, #65 Pierre Racicot

Fox Sports West, FOX Sports GO, LA Kings Audio Network

LAK starters: G Jack Campbell, D Derek Forbort, D Drew Doughty, LW Alex Iafallo, C Anze Kopitar, RW Dustin Brown

LAK scratches: D Paul LaDue, FWD Nikita Scherbak

VGK starters: G Marc-Andre Fleury, D Brayden McNabb, D Nate Schmidt, LW Jonathan Marchessault, C William Karlsson, RW Reilly Smith

VGK scratches: D Brad Hunt, FWD Oscar Lindberg, FWD Valentin Zykov

LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123882 Los Angeles Kings we can take away. Saying that, they’re a good team and it’s always tough when you play good teams.

I think if you look at his results, that would indicate he needs to be a little CAMPBELL TO START, NO OTHER LINEUP CHANGES EXPECTED better in that area and that does put a little difference and that’s why TONIGHT VERSUS VEGAS Thommy goes out sometimes. Thompson’s been good on the draws, so lots of times I have to move him and he goes with different lines too, he goes with the Carter line sometimes and takes the draws on the left side. ZACH DOOLEY He’s been good, he’s been versatile for us. Kempe does probably have to get a little better in that area. JANUARY 1, 2019 We need to play with emotion if we’re going to be successful. I liked our

emotion the last 20 games – there’s been a couple of games that got LA Kings Head Coach Willie Desjardins addressed the media prior to away on us, but overall, our guys are pretty dialed in and there’s no tonight’s game in Las Vegas. Desjardins confirmed that Jack Campbell reason we shouldn’t be tonight again. will make his return to the lineup this evening. Campbell has a 5-7-0 record, a 2.33 goals-against-average, a .923 save percentage and one shutout in NHL action this season, before he was injured on November LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.02.2019 10. The goaltender most recently appeared in two AHL games with the Ontario Reign, posting a 1-1-0 record. Campbell is Ontario’s all-time leader in appearances by a goaltender (80) and helped lead the team to a victory over San Diego on December 22.

Desjardins also noted that he does not expect any sort of changes to tonight’s lineup, other than in net, provided there are no tweaks, injury- wise during warmups. For reference, here’s how the Kings lined up last night in Colorado:

Iafallo – Kopitar – Brown

Kovalchuk – Carter – Toffoli

Leipsic – Kempe – Luff

Wagner – Thompson – Clifford

Forbort – Doughty

Muzzin – Walker

Phaneuf – Fantenberg

Quick

Campbell

Willie Desjardins on what he’s looking to carryover from last night’s game, with the back-to-back tonight

Well, they’re similar teams really, Vegas is a quick team as well, so we’ve got to make sure we stay above a little bit. We’ve been pretty consistent, our starts have been pretty good, I think in the third, we were up a couple and we sat back a little bit. We have to do a little better job, if we have a lead, we’ve got to get up and pressure a little bit.

On lineup changes and whether he liked Kovalchuk on the Carter line and Kempe back at center

I think Kempe’s a centerman, so I just wanted to get him back into the middle. I thought, the way we were at that time, we wanted to try to get two lines that I thought could produce against anybody, so that’s why I moved Kempe up. We’ve got a little bit more depth in our lineup coming back in now, so I just thought we could do that. I thought Kempe was good in the middle.

On changes to be made from the loss against Vegas on December 29

The second period. We had a good first period against these guys last game and we had a good third period, but our second period wasn’t good enough, we got behind on it. I think they did a good job through the neutral zone, we have to be better through the neutral zone and last night, we thought we won it because of our specialty teams and that night we weren’t quite as good, so we’ve got to be good on specialty teams tonight.

On playing a team so often in such a short timespan and whether it provides any sort of advantage as a coach

I think the key in coaching is whatever happens, you have to try to make it work to your advantage. There’s kind of no sense in looking at the things that don’t work, because they’re there anyways, so you have to find things that do work. We’re familiar with them, we know what they’re going to do, I think that helps us. We’ve just been in here, so we know this crowd is going to be loud tonight, you know, there’s things like that 1123883 Los Angeles Kings

WAKING UP WITH THE KINGS: JANUARY 1

ZACH DOOLEY

JANUARY 1, 2019

With last night’s overtime victory over Colorado, the Kings now have earned wins from five of their last six games and points from six of their last seven. The team picked up the two points in the opening test of a very tricky three-in-four set, which continues tonight in Las Vegas and concludes on Thursday against the NHL’s points leader, the Tampa Bay Lightning. Last night’s victory saw signs of a vintage Kings victory – Anze Kopitar was buzzing all night and assisted on both of his team’s regulation goals. Drew Doughty played more than half the game (30:28) and scored a power-play goal, while Dustin Brown scored another goal in a big situation. had a solid 22-save night, providing timely saves when needed. And while it may not be the formula for sustainable, long-term success, the Kings felt after the game that they are finally getting back to being a team takes care of its own end, and does a fine job of doing so. Los Angeles has allowed 13 goals over its last six games, nearly a goal per game less than their season average. I think Drew Doughty summed things up pretty well after last night’s game –

“I think if you play well defensively, and your intentions are to do the right things, you’re going to get more wins than you’re not,” he said. “You can kind of not be great offensively, and get a win, but if you’re not going to be great defensively, you’re going to lose the game no matter what. We seem to know how to play good defense in here, and if we keep doing that we’ll get more wins.”

Looking at the blueline, Doughty was his usual self, finding the scoresheet and carrying the load on the blueline. Jake Muzzin collected the assist on Brown’s goal and tied for the team lead with four blocked shots, along with Derek Forbort, who logged more than 22 minutes. Dion Phaneuf was solid in his return to the lineup and then…there’s the series of emotions that can be used to describe Sean Walker’s evening. Walker appeared to open the scoring in the first period, taking a feed from Adrian Kempe and firing a wrist shot past Semyon Varlamov for what would have been his first career NHL goal, only to see it wiped out for goalie interference. After another period had passed by, Walker accomplished the first NHL goal feat for the second time, scoring on what he described as his “first wraparound goal, ever.” “It was definitely a roller coaster, pretty high and then pretty low and then luckily I got the other one, so it was good,” Walker added.

So what’s next? The Kings have elevated out of the NHL’s basement, moving from 31st, all the way to a tie for 28th. Progress! Los Angeles finished off the month of December at 7-5-2 and begins January against the only blemish from its last six games, the Golden Knights. Vegas skated to a 4-1 win at STAPLES Center just three days prior, though the Kings hold a 2-1 record in this season’s series. The Golden Knights have lost just once in their last 11 games and posted a 9-3-3 record in December. A big test in an all too familiar building awaits tonight’s at 6. We’ll hear from Willie Desjardins prior to the game and will share news from that here if there is any.

LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123884 Minnesota Wild

Lack of power plays compounding Wild's scoring problems The Wild was able to score only 30 goals in 13 December games.

By Sarah McLellan Star Tribune JANUARY 1, 2019

The first 10 minutes of the third period. If the Wild could score in that time frame, it felt a boisterous reaction from the home crowd would ensue and another tally — the game-tying one — would be inevitable. But that window closed without a goal celebration. And although the Wild did eventually convert, the clock lit up in zeros before the team could strike again — confirming a 3-2 loss to the Penguins on Monday at Xcel Energy Center that left the group once again puzzled by the scoring woes that dominated a difficult December. “That is the reality, and it is frustrating,” coach Bruce Boudreau said. “You can only be positive in the next practice and build them back up and go at it again. That’s the only thing you can do.” With more losses than wins the past month, the Wild closed out the 2018 portion of its schedule primed for a fresh start and the most obvious area in need of a tuneup is the sputtering offense. Amid a 4-8-1 December, the Wild racked up only 30 goals — a drop-off from the 45 it registered in 13 November games and the 35 it managed through 12 contests in October. This lack of execution, however, isn’t a result of fewer pucks on net. The team actually amassed more shots in December (430) than any other month so far (370 in October and 415 in November). Overall, the Wild ranked 22nd in goals at 110 and 19th in goals-per-game at 2.89 after Monday’s game. “It’s the way it is for us right now,” center Charlie Coyle said. “You get your chances, and it doesn’t go in. Rebounds are coming out to the left of you, and you’re going to the right. It’s just little things like that. A bounce here or there, and it’s a different story. But we gotta stay positive through it. We’ve gone through it before, and it’s gonna be tough to crawl out of this. But we’ve got the team to do it, so we know we can do it.” What looks like it could help ignite more production is the power play, which has delivered at a 23.2 percent efficiency — good for 10th in the NHL. But time with the man advantage has been tough to come by; the Wild has received zero looks in three of its past eight games and had just one chance Monday, an opportunity it did capitalize on via captain Mikko Koivu’s goal. Its 13 power plays in those eight games is the fewest in the league, four behind the next- lowest Dallas Stars. “That’s a frustration for us right now,” winger Zach Parise said. “I don’t know what to say. I don’t know if we’re not doing a good enough job drawing them. I don’t have an answer for that, but it’s frustrating when you work and you work and you work and you’re just not getting the calls. I’m not saying that’s the reason we lost [to the Penguins]. It’s not an excuse, but it’s kind of been a common theme for us just not drawing enough power plays.” While the Wild has acknowledged playing more on the inside rather than the perimeter may result in more hooking or tripping infractions, a string of non-calls against the Penguins certainly seemed like they had the potential to be penalized. They weren’t, though, and that shifted the microscope back over to the Wild’s inability to score on its other chances — an ongoing issue that looks like it’ll need to get addressed for the team to start to win consistently. “We gotta stay positive through it all,” Coyle said, “and keep pushing through it.” • The Wild recalled defenseman Ryan Murphy on Tuesday from the Iowa Wild. He had three goals and 10 assists in 27 AHL games. Star Tribune LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123885 Minnesota Wild

Defenseman Ryan Murphy called up from Iowa by Wild

By Sarah McLellan JANUARY 1, 2019

The Wild called up defenseman Ryan Murphy from Iowa on Tuesday. He'll join the team for practice tomorrow in St. Paul before a four-game Eastern road trip. Murphy, 25, has three goals and 13 assists in 27 games with the Wild's American Hockey League affiliate. He played in 21 games for the Wild last season and had two goals and three assists. He also appeared in one of the team's playoff games against Winnipeg. In 172 career games with Carolina and the Wild, Murphy has eight goals and 34 assists. A right shot, he was taken in the first round (12th overall) of the 2102 draft by the Hurricanes. The Wild signed him as a free agent on July 1, 2017. The Penguins beat the Wild 3-2 at Xcel Energy Center on Monday, the Wild's sixth loss in seven games. Star Tribune LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123886 Minnesota Wild The bad news was that he was the only one who played well. Minnesota would once again find themselves unable to finish, shooting under 6 percent at 5-on-5. It didn’t help matters that the Wild were also mediocre A brief history of Wild swoons: Is this the one that will end the playoff when it came to controlling play, meaning they couldn’t offset their poor streak? shooting with sheer quantity of chances. How did they fix it? Despite losing Harding and continuing to have uninspiring underlying metrics, Minnesota surged into the playoffs. Led By Tony Abbott Jan 1, 2019 by Parise and Pominville, the Wild’s shooting woes turned around, and Darcy Kuemper and Ilya Bryzgalov held the goaltending together.

They also tended to end up on the fortunate end of close matches, For the first time since Bruce Boudreau’s arrival, the Minnesota Wild’s compiling a 12-3-7 record in one-goal games from Jan. 1 to the end of playoff chances are in serious doubt. the season. The Wild dug themselves into a hole but got plenty of fortunate bounces to turn things around. In Boudreau’s debut season of 2016-17, the Wild rode an early 12-game winning streak to a hot start and coasted into the playoffs. He followed 2014-15 season: Dec. 16-Jan. 13 that up by guiding the Wild steadily to another 100-point season. Minnesota never had a firm grip on a playoff spot in the first two months Gone seemed the days of the dreaded swoon. A defining characteristic of the 2014-15 season, but things would hit a new low starting in of the Wild in the early Zach Parise-Ryan Suter Era was their tendency to December. The Wild lost 12 of 14 games, falling all the way to 12th tailspin. Like clockwork, Minnesota would fall into a losing streak that place. After a brutal 7-2 loss to Pittsburgh on Jan. 13, it was clear that sent them out of the playoff bubble and put their seasons on the brink of something had to give for the Wild. ruin. What happened? This one was all on goaltending. The Wild’s skaters Incredibly, these swoons never killed a Wild season. No matter how dire performed well, scoring at a decent rate and controlling play. But they the situations they would get themselves in these past six seasons, were a disaster in net. Backstrom was a husk of his former self, and Minnesota would always put together a run to return to the playoffs. Kuemper lost all of his confidence by late October. Minnesota tried to tighten up the defense to make up for that, but even a Mike Yeo-led Well, the swoons are back with a vengeance. Monday night’s 3-2 defeat defense couldn’t mask that weakness. at the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins marks the Wild’s 11th loss in their last 15 games. In that time, Minnesota has gone from second in the How did they fix it? Trading for Devan Dubnyk. Fletcher threw a Hail Western Conference to tied for 10th. Mary, hoping that having a competent goaltender could turn the Wild’s fortunes around. It ended up working out better than he could ever have What’s wrong with the Wild, and can they pull things together once dreamed. again? Let’s look back on the Ghost of Swoons Past to see if we can learn anything about the predicament today’s Wild currently find Dubnyk started 39 games for the Wild, posting an absurd .936 save themselves in. percentage. That not only helped Minnesota with its goal prevention, but it also freed the Wild up to take more chances offensively. 2012-13 season: April 1-26 2015-16 season: Jan. 2-Feb. 13 At the end of March 2013, the first Parise/Suter Wild team looked like a success. Their two new star players had propelled them to third in the This was the Swoon to End All Swoons. Minnesota appeared solidly in a West. This prompted then-general manager Chuck Fletcher to bolster his playoff spot on Jan. 1. The Wild then proceeded to lose 16 of their next roster for a playoff run by trading for Jason Pominville. 19 games, ending with an eight-game losing streak that cost Yeo his job. This momentum didn’t last, though. Minnesota would go on to lose nine What happened? Six weeks of not scoring. Minnesota shot just 5.1 of its next 13 games, culminating in an embarrassing 6-1 defeat at the percent at 5-on-5 play, and just three players had more than two goals hands of the lowly Edmonton Oilers on April 26. That loss left the free- during the swoon. This wasn’t a case of them doing things well and not falling Wild tied for the last playoff spot in the West on the last day of the being able to finish, either. They struggled to even generate scoring season. chances. What happened? Minnesota had hoped to enter the season with a goalie How did they fix it? John Torchetti took over as interim head coach, and tandem of aging veteran Niklas Backstrom and Goalie of the Future Josh the Wild responded to the move. He was able to get increased Harding. But Harding was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in November, production out of players like Pominville, Erik Haula and Mikael sidelining him for most of the season. Granlund, who had been languishing under Yeo. But ultimately, what got Minnesota into the playoffs was the fact that the Western Conference As a result, the Wild had to ride Backstrom, giving the 34-year-old 41 was very weak. Minnesota got the second wild-card spot with just 87 starts in the lockout-shortened season. Backstrom held up through the points, which made them one of the worst playoff teams of the salary cap end of March, sporting a .916 save percentage. But in April, the wheels era. fell off. Mike Yeo Not that the skaters were blameless, either. Pominville proved to be a good addition, but the rest of the Wild roster was punchless, shooting just Mike Yeo’s final game as Wild head coach: A 4-2 loss to the Bruins in 5.8 percent at 5-on-5 during the swoon. You can’t win when you’re not February 2016 that capped an eight-game losing streak and cost him his scoring and can’t get a save. job. (Brad Rempel / USA Today) How did they fix it? You could argue they didn’t. The Wild did manage to 2018-19 season: Nov. 27-present win the next game to clinch their playoff berth. But that very mild success didn’t carry over into the playoffs, as they were quickly bounced in the And now we arrive at the current swoon — 4-10-1 in their last 15 games. first round by the Chicago Blackhawks. What happened? Where do you want to start? What about with the Wild’s Ryan Suter and Zach Parise inability to finish? Night after night, Minnesota has frustrated the State of Hockey with their inability to get a goal. They’re shooting just 5.7 percent We’ve been here before in the Zach Parise-Ryan Suter Era, no stranger at 5-on-5 during the swoon, which is 28th in the NHL since Nov. 27. to mid-season swoons putting playoff hopes in jeopardy. (Brad Rempel / USA Today) This is an anomaly for Boudreau’s Wild teams. While Wild fans have long lamented their team’s lack of finishers, Boudreau’s system had the Wild 2013-14 season: Nov. 25-Dec. 31 lighting up the scoresheet in his first two seasons as coach. By emphasizing dangerous scoring chances, Minnesota was an elite Minnesota stormed out of the gate in 2013-14, notching 15 wins in its first shooting team despite not having a player with, say, Patrik Laine’s talent. 24 games. This was due in large part to Harding being back in net. He was stellar, sporting a .933 save percentage on the season. The good news is, Boudreau’s system has still been getting the Wild plenty of high-danger chances. The bad news is, Minnesota isn’t finishing Unfortunately, the team started running into trouble in late November, on them. Over the past two seasons, Minnesota shot 18.9 percent on losing 13 of 18 games in a swoon that saw them fall to 10th in the West. high-danger chances at 5-on-5, third best in the league. During the To make matters worse, Harding would play the last game of his career swoon, Minnesota is scoring on just 10.4 percent of them, second worst on Dec. 31. in that stretch. They’re simply not taking advantage of those chances like What happened? Goaltending wasn’t to blame this time. Harding had a they used to. And that’s not even counting their newfound tendency to strong stretch during the swoon, going 5-5 with a .925 save percentage. not get shots off on odd-man rushes. To make matters worse, Minnesota’s goaltending has been the worst in the league at 5-on-5 during the swoon. Dubnyk has started to put together some good performances, but it’s still hard to feel confident in him right now. Was his rough November a fluke? An injury-induced slump? Or is the 32-year-old not as capable of handling the workload that Minnesota expects of him? The answer could determine the Wild’s season. How can they fix it? It’s hard to see an easy solution to the Wild’s issues when they’re the exact issues they’ve spent this entire decade trying to address. They need long-term stability in net. They need players with finishing ability. Same as it ever was. Minnesota is probably going to have to continue riding Dubnyk. The trade market for goaltenders is practically non-existent, and Alex Stalock can’t be trusted to take a significant role with the team. Kaapo Kahkonen is having a solid rookie year in the AHL, but given that this is his first year of North American hockey, an NHL call-up doesn’t seem in the cards. So the other possible solution is to acquire someone with shooting talent who can finish the scoring chances the Wild generate. And while that sounds like an obvious, good answer, this is something the Wild have tried and failed to do for years. But there is opportunity to improve on the market. The Ottawa Senators, for example, are in last place overall and have Mark Stone and Matt Duchene, both of whom are free agents after the season. They would each command a large package of assets in return, but both players are talented shooters who would address Minnesota’s needs. Beyond that kind of big thinking, the only real solution for Minnesota is to just ride out the bad luck and hope things turn around on their own. Granted, it’s worked before, but one has to wonder if this is finally the swoon that manages to take down the Wild. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123887 Montreal Canadiens

In the Habs' Room: 'Adjustments,' confidence earn 4-2 record, playoff position 'I can't say enough about how Nemo played, especially in the second period to keep it at 2-1,' said team captain Shea Weber.

PAT HICKEY, MONTREAL GAZETTE

DALLAS — When Paul Byron saw Jeff Petry score the winning goal in overtime Monday night, he made a beeline to the other end of the ice, where he engaged Canadiens goaltender Antti Niemi in a bear hug. “I was really happy for him because he works so hard for us every day,” Byron said after the Montreal Canadiens completed a come-from-behind 3-2 win over the Dallas Stars. “He made so many big saves tonight to keep us in the game and, for sure, I wanted to celebrate and give him a big hug.” Petry scored the winner and Phillip Danault made the overtime possible with his second goal of the game — and seventh of the season — but this night belonged to Niemi. The goaltender, who has been asked to assume a larger role because Carey Price is nursing a lower-body injury, was coming off his worst performance of the season Saturday night when he gave up six goals in a 6-5 loss in Tampa. Coach Claude Julien expressed confidence the veteran goaltender would bounce back, but did anyone expect he would set a season-high for saves with 45 while allowing fewer than three goals for the first time this season? Niemi said he made a few adjustments for Monday’s game. “I worked on settling down and not getting so far out for no reason,” Niemi said. “It’s not easy after giving up six goals in the Tampa game, but that game gave me some extra motivation and I’m feeling pretty happy right now. It’s been tough. I’ve been getting a couple of wins here and there, but it hasn’t been solid. I liked getting lots of shots and getting into the game.” “I can’t say enough about how Nemo played, especially in the second period to keep it at 2-1,” said team captain Shea Weber. “It shows a lot of character.” Weber said the come-from-behind win was the latest example of the Canadiens’ resilience. “I don’t think it’s something you want to do,” Weber said. “I still think we’re a better team when we have the lead, but knowing we can do it gives us confidence when we’re in that situation.” With the win, Niemi improved his record to 6-4-1 and the Canadiens finished the six-game road trip sandwiched around Christmas with a 4-2 record. They completed the month of December with a 10-5 mark and go into 2019 in a playoff position. But their hold on the second wild-card spot is tenuous. They are one point up on the New York Islanders, who have played two fewer games. The overtime ended quickly. Max Domi won the opening faceoff against Tyler Seguin and Petry converted a saucer pass from Byron. “I saw him get a step on the defender and he did a great job lifting the puck over (Ben) Bishop,” Byron said. “We had trouble getting shots high on Bishop, but Jeff’s shot was perfect.” “Any time you can get possession off the faceoff, it gives you an advantage,” Petry said. “(Byron) made a really good pass and I was able to deflect it.” Danault scored twice to spark the comeback. It’s the second time on this trip he has propelled the Canadiens to overtime. He had a hat trick in the 4-3 win over Vegas before Christmas. It was Byron who scored the OT winner in that one. “I think I’m going to the net more,” Danault said of his recent scoring spree. “I’m more confident and sometimes when you’re scoring goals your confidence goes up. It feels good and getting four wins on the road is huge.” Montreal Gazette LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123888 Montreal Canadiens · Antti Niemi: Yes, he might still be bloodied and bruised. But he won’t stop swinging. His 45 saves are the most he’s made in a game since last March in Boston when he stopped 50 shots while losing 2-1 to the Bruins Melnick’s GBU: The Canadiens close out 2018 with some Texas-sized in overtime. There were too many highlight reel saves to single out but an fireworks indication of how locked in he was went down 16 minutes into the first period when Jason Spezza moved in alone down the right side and pulled his fake-the-shot-to-freeze-the-goalie-and-then-go-around-him move that we’ve seen from the veteran centre for his entire career. Niemi By Mitch Melnick Jan 1, 2019 committed to the shot but managed to desperately stretch out to deny Spezza a goal.

You might understandably think it’s a Spezza patent. But some of us Who was that masked man in Dallas with a Canadiens jersey on? were around in 1976. You might want to jump ahead to 2:20 when a The state of Texas hasn’t witnessed as efficient a robbery since the brilliant defenceman named Serge Savard picked up a loose puck. Newton gang began holding up banks and trains in the early part of the · Phillip Danault: Maybe he found the formula in Vegas. Not sure what it 20th century. was but something turned his stick into pure magic. Who was that man in the Montreal net? It sure looked a lot like the Antti · Jordie Benn & Brett Kulak: Since I already mentioned Serge Savard, Niemi, who finished third in the voting for the Vézina trophy while playing how about adding Larry Robinson and Guy Lapointe to the discussion? for San Jose in 2012-13. Or maybe you don’t remember that guy. (FYI – in addition to “The Big Three”, the other top defencemen on the Niemi’s had a good career. That includes a couple of excellent seasons 1976 Canada Cup winning Team Canada were and Denis with San Jose. Prior to that, he was a Stanley Cup winner – and not Potvin.) How about Jordie Benn taking control of the puck and skating it merely a spectator– with Chicago in 2010. into the Dallas zone while his partner Kulak went even deeper (as he does once or twice every game) to set up the opening goal by Danault? His game slowly fell apart only after he arrived in Dallas. But he wasn’t That was positively late 70s Montreal defence play. More, please. alone. His fellow Finn Kari Lehtonen quickly went from an above-average goalie to a mediocre one. His dip in play was the reason Stars’ GM Jim · Jeff Petry: And speaking of double takes, yes that was Petry who Nill signed Niemi. But, as we’ve seen, there are issues in Dallas that go levelled Dallas teenager Miro Heiskanen inside the Montreal blue line way beyond the crease. early in the game to help offset an early (very) physical challenge by the Stars. It’s the last part of Petry’s game that you think of, but he’s been What’s worth remembering is that even though Niemi was not good in doing it more often this season while wisely picking his spots to do so. Tampa Bay (hardly the first goalie to struggle against the Lightning) his His overtime winner puts him on pace for at least 16 goals and close to more crucial starts were against two teams that gave up on him. He was 60 points. good enough to win in Florida. And he was the reason his team won in Dallas. IF JEFF PETRY ENDS UP BEING THE MONTREAL CANADIENS ALL- STAR GAME REPRESENTATIVE, WHICH HE VERY WELL MAY END The Canadiens again started well, opening the scoring (as they did in all UP BEING, IT WILL BE WELL EARNED. six games on the road trip) when a suddenly red-hot Phillip Danault went to the net to bang in a loose puck in front of Ben Bishop, the veteran — MIKE KELLY (@MIKEKELLYNHL) JANUARY 1, 2019 goalie who, between spectacular saves and an almost equally impressive WHAT A WAY TO END 2018!!! TEAM PETRY SHOWS UP IN FULL series of nightly flops that adds a major irritation factor to his play, has FORCE DOWN IN TEXAS! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! #GOHABSGO more or less dominated Montreal in his career (12-4-4, 1.79, .935). PIC.TWITTER.COM/WBUDLBTVHN But the better goalie in this game was Niemi, especially in the second — JULIE PETRY (@PETRYULES) JANUARY 1, 2019 period when Dallas outshot the Habs 23-10. He knows he needed it. · Overtime: After starting the season 0-5, the Habs have won their last “It’s been tough,” he said post-game about his season to date. “I’ve had a two. Even though Max Domi did not have a good night, and many no couple of wins here and there but it hasn’t been solid. (I’m) not happy doubt thought that Danault should have started, it’s the kind of about the way I’ve played.” aggressive approach that is needed to pick up the extra point – get your So he went back to work – although it sounds like it was more of a best skaters on the ice, whether they looked good, bad or ugly in the first listening session – with his goalie coach Stephane Waite, who helped 60 minutes. Because it’s a brand new game. Once Domi won the faceoff him get that Stanley Cup ring in Chicago and helped revive his career a from Tyler Seguin and moved the puck to Petry a bad individual road trip season ago. for the Habs centre (a 4-game goalless drought turned into 10 games) became somewhat meaningless. Because even though he didn’t score “I had to settle down. Be more patient. More calm . . . Not to get so far nor play particularly well for most of it, he does get credit for helping to out (of position) for no reason.” set up the game-winning goal that put a capper on a very successful road trip that otherwise might have sent the Canadiens sinking into the cold, In other words, trust yourself. dark part of the Eastern Conference standings. While salvaging his trip While it might have seemed that the game had turned by the time Dallas it’s worth pointing out that Domi’s playmaking ability also led to important captain and whipping boy Jamie Benn tapped in a rebound while his goals in Florida and Vegas. The entire Domi-Drouin-Byron trio was brother was serving a penalty late in the second period, this was still a underwhelming for most of the road trip. Drouin had a lot of jump in this frazzled Dallas team the Habs were playing, unlike the potential Stanley game, more so than his linemates. I was wondering if we’d see him and Cup winner in Tampa Bay they had just faced two nights earlier. If the Kotkaniemi together since the Habs were down to 11 forwards very early Lightning couldn’t bury the Canadiens once they took the lead why into the game. Moot point now. The bigger point is that the Habs can win should Dallas be able to, especially with an “extra motivated” Niemi games without the line scoring at even strength. rebounding (heh heh) as he did? THE BAD Sensing the strength behind them, the Canadiens forced the issue in the · Andrew Shaw injury: This could be a tough one, as Shaw was in the third period, attacking instead of retreating. When Danault scored his fifth midst of his best stretch as a member of the Canadiens. They say “upper goal in four games (and ninth point on the road trip) on a wraparound body”, which could mean shoulder, collarbone, neck or head. Until we after a Shea Weber shot bounced off the backboards, it provided even hear otherwise there is cause for concern. But in the meantime, it looks more energy for the Habs, while seemingly demoralizing the Stars, who like another previously underappreciated winger, Joel Armia, is ready to might have figured that Benn and Seguin would combine to win the game return as soon as Thursday against Vancouver when the Canadiens for them in overtime. begin a three-game homestand and a stretch of 7 of 11 games on home In what could only be described as a perfect (nasty?) bit of symbolism, ice before the All-Star break. both Dallas stars were in chase mode as Paul Byron set up Jeff Petry to THE UGLY provide an early New Year’s celebration on the Montreal bench, in the corner of the rink and, most likely, during the flight home. · Jim Lites: The Dallas Stars CEO got more than his 15 minutes of fame (naming as GM doesn’t count, does it?) when he verbally Back in Dallas, they’re still trying to figure out who was that masked man attacked Benn and Seguin. Well, Benn scored his power play goal from who looked vaguely familiar. in close. (“Jamie Benn hasn’t scored a goal from longer than five feet all Was it the return of The Lone Ranger? year” is part of what Lites said while his nose grew about that long.) Seguin set it up and had 8 shots on goal. But there was something THE GOOD missing. Outside of his goal the only time you really noticed Benn was very early when he demolished Victor Mete behind the Montreal net. As Mete went to the Montreal bench with a bloody nose, Benn was asked by a few players on that bench why he didn’t pick on somebody bigger, which he never did. They need more from both players but it’s hardly like they’ve morphed into Milan Lucic. Dallas GM Jim Nill certainly solidified the goalie position as both Bishop and Anton Khudobin have been excellent. Without them, Dallas wouldn’t be fighting for a wild-card spot. They’d be battling for the basement in the Western Conference with St. Louis, Los Angeles, Chicago and Arizona. Which, at this stage, probably wouldn’t be a bad idea. Maybe the lights are on but nobody’s home. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123889 Nashville Predators

Tuesday's recap: Predators 4, Flyers 0

Tommy Deas, Jan. 1, 2019

Zac Rinaldo talks about the Predators' resurgent offense and the New Year's Day win over the Flyers. Tommy Deas, Nashville Tennessean Viktor Arvidsson kept getting chances. Juuse Saros kept denying them. It was a winning formula for the Predators on Tuesday night at Bridgestone Arena as Nashville opened 2019 with a 4-0 victory over Philadelphia on New Year's Day. Arvidsson scored two goals. Saros got the start in goal in relief of Pekka Rinne and turned in a shutout performance, gloving and swatting away shots from start to finish. Arvidsson finished on a breakaway in the third period and netted a short shot off a pass from Ryan Johansen in the second. He took six shots to lead Nashville's attack. "In the second (period) we took over, I felt like, and really turned it on," Arvidsson said. "We just kept going from there." His two-goal performance came six days after Arvidsson returned from injured reserve. "I'm almost there," he said. "I felt like I had my legs under me today and I felt like my timing was better (Monday) in Washington. It's a little hard to come back, being out for six weeks, but I feel like I'm close to where I want to be and I've just got to keep working." Nashville took the lead early in the second period on a breakaway when Craig Smith sent one high into the net past Flyers goalkeeper Michal Neuvirth of the assist from Kevin Fiala. It was Smith's 11th goal on the season. Arvidsson scored his 10th and 11th goals of the season to give the Predators a comfortable margin. Rocco Grimaldi scored his second goal in as many days when he put in a shot with a little more than 8 minutes to go to make it a four-goal margin. The first period was uneventful, with neither team scoring. Nashville managed just six shots on goal with the Flyers failing to scratch on 13 shots. The Predators improved to 24-15-2. The Flyers are now 15-19-5. Big number: 32. Saves by Saros. Big game: Arvidsson, who came back from injured reserve just six days previously, scored two goals to lead the Predators. Roster moves: The Predators placed Kyle Turris on injured reserve. Nashville also claimed Phillip Di Giuseppe – who has 41 points in 141 career NHL games – off waivers from Carolina and reassigned Nicholas Baptiste to the Milwaukee Admirals. Quotable: "He gives everything every shift. He never stops working. Every day he's working to make a good impression. He's contributing and he's being a factor." – Coach Peter Laviolette on Rocco Grimaldi. Next: At Detroit Red Wings, 6:30 p.m. CT Friday. TV/radio: Fox Sports Tennessee/102.5-FM. Tennessean LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123890 Nashville Predators

Predators center Ryan Johansen: 'We didn't like 2018 that much'

Paul Skrbina, Nashville Tennessean Published 2:23 p.m. CT Jan. 1, 2019

Ryan Johansen's favorite thing about 2018 is that it's over. The center helped the Predators end the calendar year on a high note Monday by helping them end two sore-thumb losing streaks -- six in a row overall and 10 in a row on the road -- with a 6-3 victory against the Capitals. "We really didn't like 2018 that much," Johansen said. He wasn't just referencing recent history. Focusing on 2019, as Johansen said, also was about further leaving behind the sour second-round loss to the Jets. The turning of the calendar, though, brings with it ongoing adjustments. The Predators entered the new year against the Flyers on Tuesday with a familiar script. Four players are on injured reserve, including Johansen's linemate and the team's leading goal-scorer, Filip Forsberg. Kyle Turris was just put there Tuesday with a lower-body injury. Yannick Weber (undisclosed) and Colton Sissons (foot) also are sidelined. Johansen's other regular running buddy, Viktor Arvidsson, is four games into his return after missing 21 games with a broken thumb. "We're getting used to each other again and trying to get back into rhythm," Johansen said. "With (Arvidsson), it's just about getting back up to speed. We all know how (he) can play. He's still getting back into the groove of things." Which has been the theme for Johansen. The ailments to teammates have meant a revolving door of linemates for Johansen. He has been the only constant on the top line, which lately has included Ryan Hartman and Kevin Fiala and Craig Smith and Sissons. Which lately has meant trying to find a new groove on a regular basis. "With all the mixing and matching and injuries and line adjustments, you have to look at how you can be your best self," said Johansen, who had three goals and 11 assists while Arvidsson was out and led the team with 34 points going into Tuesday's game. Arvidsson said timing is everything when it comes to coming back from injury and settling back into his role. Watching his teammates struggle, he said, was unsettling. "You usually have more time than you think with the puck," Arvidsson said. "It’s a little bit of an adjustment. I felt great last game, creating scoring chances." Forsberg is expected to return soon from a hand injury that has kept him out for the last month. Which will bring another set of adjustments for Johansen. "His line had been pretty settled for a while," coach Peter Laviolette said of the Johansen, Forsberg, Arvidsson combination. "Now he's got new pieces moving in and out of there. He continues to contribute." And he's hoping for a happier new year in 2019. Tennessean LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123891 Nashville Predators

P.K. Subban to have original TV show called 'The PK Project'

Paul Skrbina, Jan. 1, 2019

P.K. Subban didn't play in the Winter Classic on Tuesday. But the Predators defenseman played a part in it between periods of the Blackhawks-Bruins game at Notre Dame Stadium. Subban appeared via satellite from Brentwood to talk about his upcoming reality documentary, "The PK Project." Take a peek at "The PK Project" an original series with @PKSubban1! pic.twitter.com/F1f9mRRj6v — NHL on NBC (@NHLonNBCSports) January 1, 2019 The show will offer a behind-the-scenes look at Subban's life and will cover a variety of topics. Subban has done some filming for the show recently, and more is still to be done. The show will air Jan. 26. on NBC Sports.com. “I’m excited for this opportunity with my production company and NBC Sports," Subban said. "The series will feature a lot about my playing career, my interest in fashion and what I’m currently doing here in Nashville.” Tennessean LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123892 New Jersey Devils

NJ Devils place Taylor Hall on injured reserve

Abbey Mastracco, Jan. 1, 2019

Taylor Hall has already missed four games for the Devils and it looks like he’s going to miss a few more. The winger and reigning Hart Trophy winner was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday with a lower-body injury, retroactive to Dec. 23. Hall aggravated an injury in practice prior to the Christmas break and missed one game. He rejoined the team for their contest against Columbus on Dec. 23 but then sat out the last three. Hall, the Devils points leader with 11 goals and 26 assists (37 points), joins forwards Marcus Johansson (upper-body), Joey Anderson (broken ankle) and goalie Cory Schneider (abdominal strain) on IR. The club has promoted defenseman Egor Yakovlev and forward Blake Pietila from Binghamton of the American Hockey League. Yakovlev was assigned to Binghamton on Dec. 31 and played that same night. The Devils have managed well without two of their top forwards, winning their last three straight. They now head to Dallas to begin a four-game Southwestern swing against the Stars, the Arizona Coyotes and the Vegas Golden Knights. They’ll end the trip in Buffalo against the Sabres. Hall can be activated at any time so there's a chance he could join the team on the road. It's unclear whether or not he traveled to Dallas with the team Tuesday. Bergen Record LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123893 New York Islanders

Isles' Barry Trotz focuses on games, not on Hall of Fame potential

By Andrew Gross

The singular focus for Barry Trotz is Thursday night’s game against the Blackhawks at NYCB Live’s Nassau Coliseum. The Islanders coach’s resume is certainly in Hall of Fame company but that’s not something the unassuming Trotz has ever considered “Me?” Trotz told Newsday. “Oh, no. No. No. I just keep trying to win a game. That’s why it feels awkward a lot of times when you’re passing some of these legendary guys. I’ve had longevity in the game but, no. I just think about the day to day stuff. I just grind it out.” The Islanders did not practice on Tuesday, a day after Trotz, 56, in his 20th season as an NHL coach and first with the Islanders, earned his 783rd victory with a 3-1 win at Buffalo, moving him into sole possession of fourth place on the league’s all-time list. That’s one ahead of Islanders’ Hall of Famer Al Arbour. Scotty Bowman, the all-time wins leader with 1,244 is a Hall of Famer. No. 2 Joel Quenneville (890) and No. 3 Ken Hitchcock (832) seem Hall of Fame bound as well. Trotz strengthened his candidacy for the builders’ category by leading the Capitals to the Stanley Cup in June. His work guiding the Predators from their expansion infancy — literally helping to instruct the Nashville fans on the rules of the game — into one of the NHL’s stronger franchises can’t be overlooked, either. He’s less than half a season into his Islanders’ tenure and already the team, which allowed an NHL-worst 293 goals last season, while missing the playoffs the past two seasons and winning only one series since 1993, has allowed the fewest goals in the league (102). The Islanders (21-13-4) have won seven of eight by an aggregate 28-14 They are a point out of the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. “I started coaching because I always loved the game but I wasn’t good enough as a player,” Trotz said. “I’ve enjoyed the highs. No one enjoys the lows. But the thing I like about the game is you have an opportunity. If it’s not going good, you have an opportunity to make it better. I like the adrenaline and then, after the games, you get an adrenaline crash. “I’ve been very fortunate,” Trotz added. “I’ve had people believe in what I bring to the table. I’ve worked for good organizations, all three of them. I’ve worked for good people as general managers. I just try to be myself as much as possible. I don’t deviate a whole lot. I am who I am. If you like me, you like me. If you don’t, sorry. I just enjoy what I do and it never seems like a job.” Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123894 New York Rangers

Rangers skating into New Year with revamped expectations

By Brett Cyrgalis January 2, 2019

The Rangers had some calendar year in 2018 — and they’d like to forget most of what has transpired on the ice. It began with the Winter Classic win over the Sabres at Citi Field and ended with a 2-1 win Monday night at St. Louis. Coach Alain Vigneault’s record in 2018 was 13-27-4, while David Quinn has taken over this season and has his rebuilding team 17-14-7 going into Wednesday night’s Garden match against the Penguins. But the Rangers’ combined record of 30-41-11 has taken its toll on the players that have been on both teams. Quinn has them playing hard, but things changed drastically around this franchise in the previous 365 days. “You look at the record, obviously, it’s been a learning experience and challenging,” an exhausted Henrik Lundqvist said after Monday’s game, in which he made 38 saves as he continues doing everything humanly possible to keep his overmatched team in games. “You have to reset your expectation obviously. That’s been the biggest change, and that was tough, end of last year too. You just had to reset.” That transition is going to continue as this season progresses, with the schedule ramping up through travel and difficult games. The next three weeks of play will lead into the bye week, beginning Jan. 20. After the Penguins, there is a three-game trip to face Colorado, Arizona, and Vegas, followed by a home-and-home against the Islanders with the second of those, Jan. 12, possibly the last time the two teams will faceoff at Barclays Center, where the Rangers have never won. And the Feb. 25 trade deadline casts a shadow over the whole operation. General manager Jeff Gorton is not going to change his plans of acquiring young assets no matter how hard this team is playing under Quinn. Which is not to say it isn’t a nice sight for everyone in the organization to see the players reacting to the first-year head coach in such a positive manner, even if the attention to detail comes and goes in the natural way it can with such a young team. “We understand it’s a transition with a lot of new players, but the best way to build to the future is to win,” alternate captain Mika Zibanejad told The Post. “Is it going to be easy every night, or is it ever easy in this league? Absolutely not. I think just overall, we have a good team. We can win games. We’ve shown that to ourselves, and that’s the only thing that really matters — what we think about ourselves in this locker room.” The Rangers had struggled to gain any traction since Thanksgiving, but the sweep of this two-game trip was rather satisfying. They were quick to excoriate their effort against the Blues over the final 35 minutes, when they generated just four shots on goal but somehow managed to hang on to the one-goal lead (mostly due to Lundqvist’s brilliance). But they were tough and resilient against the hulking Predators on Saturday night, and this proud group needed the four points they gained in Nashville and St. Louis to keep their mental well-being. “I think we have a good group in here, good chemistry, good feeling in the locker room. We believe in each other,” Zibanejad said. “But we just have to keep doing the right thing and give ourselves a chance to win every night. We’re learning, and this was a huge weekend for us.” So now the new year begins, and with it comes a slew of new challenges, both on the ice for the players and for Gorton in terms of rebuilding the roster. As Lundqvist said, after what happened in 2018, the expectations have changed. But there is no changing the fact that they still want to win every night, which should make the rest of this season at least a little more palatable. “You can give us compliments and tell us how good a team we are — or the other way around — and we still have to go out and do it. We still have to play,” Zibanejad said. “If we don’t believe in it ourselves, no one is going to.” New York Post LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123895 New York Rangers

The Rangers’ horrific unit suddenly is not so horrific

By Brett Cyrgalis January 1, 2019 | 3:22PM

The kaboom unit struck again. The Rangers got another power-play goal Monday night in St. Louis from the five-forward group coach David Quinn famously said he wanted to blow up — “kaboom” — after failing so drastically before the Christmas break. It was the third goal in the previous three games for that group, having scored the first two both just seven seconds into their man- advantages in a 4-3 overtime loss to the Blue Jackets at home Thursday then a 4-3 win over the Predators in Nashville on Saturday. “Another goal,” Quinn said with a sheepish grin after the 2-1 win in St. Louis, as the unit hardly looked great in its first two attempts before Mats Zuccarello scored with 19.6 seconds left in the first period. “Three games in a row we get a goal. Certainly needs some work, and there are some moments you wish some things were better. But I think that happens with any power play.” This goal came when Chris Kreider stole the puck along the sideboards and made a quick pass to Zuccarello for a one-timer. It was a big goal and tied the game 1-1. “Just one of those bang-bang plays,” Kreider said. “The power play has to continue to work hard, have that five-on-five relentless mentality.” The domino effect from the five-forward unit — which also included Kevin Hayes, Mika Zibanejad and Vlad Namestnikov — was that it bumped defenseman Neal Pionk onto the second unit, where he was joined by Kevin Shattenkirk, returning from a seven-game absence due to a separated left shoulder. The offensive-minded Tony DeAngelo was also in the lineup, but he didn’t see any power-play time. It’s curious to see how Quinn is going to deal with it now, as the man- advantage has risen to be ranked 14th (20.7 percent) in the league. New York Post LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123896 New York Rangers

Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist happy to be fighting for playoff spot

By Colin Stephenson

There are certainly some fans out there that believe the Rangers ought not to be trying so hard to win every night. Losing regularly, and improving the team’s chances of winning this summer’s draft lottery, makes the most sense to them. But not to Henrik Lundqvist. Lundqvist seemed to be the only happy guy in the Rangers locker room Monday night after they closed out 2018 with a gritty 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues and swept their two-game Midwest trip to close the calendar year with a 17-14-7 record. Most of Lundqvist’s teammates seemed a little sheepish about the way the team played, but all Lundqvist cared about was getting that win and staying in the hunt for a playoff spot this season. The Rangers are six points out of a playoff spot. “It’s important in the next two or three weeks we stay focused and do whatever we can to stay in the race,’’ Lundqvist said. Lundqvist certainly did what he could against St. Louis, making 39 saves as the Rangers were outshot 40-23. Coach David Quinn’s concern was that not enough of Lundqvist’s teammates did all they could do. The coach complained that his team didn’t seem to want to skate, close down on people or hit anybody. Quinn pointed to a sequence where the Rangers were hemmed into their own zone for an extended shift — more than two minutes — and two players ended up breaking their sticks. Ryan Strome, who had broken his stick, picked up the other one not realizing it was broken and was penalized for playing with it. The Rangers killed the penalty, but Quinn was annoyed with the entire sequence. “I don’t know if (Strome) knew the stick was broken or not, but, again, that play was a microcosm of why we had the last 35 minutes the way we did,’’ Quinn said. New pact for Hayes? With the flip of the calendar, the Rangers can now begin negotiating with the representative for Kevin Hayes on a contract extension. Hayes, 26, was a restricted free agent last summer and signed a one-year, $5.175 million deal, meaning the team could not talk with him about an extension until Jan. 1. Hayes, whose career-long point scoring streak ended Monday at nine games, is the Rangers’ second-leading scorer with 33 points, on 10 goals and 23 assists. He has been, arguably, the Rangers’ best forward this season and is on pace to score 71 points, which would be by far his career high. But as the Rangers navigate their rebuilding process, it isn’t clear whether GM Jeff Gorton would want to sign Hayes to a long term deal or trade him before the Feb. 25 deadline to acquire more young players and/or draft picks. Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123897 NHL That’s why the best defense is sometimes to remain on the offensive. Don’t sit back — keep striking.

“We’re trying to stay aggressive,” Landeskog said. “The O-zone is the Call it a comeback: No lead safe as late rallies on the rise best place to play defense. At least, that’s the way we think about it. That’s easier said than done. The team that’s behind is always going to push.” The Associated Press THREE AMIGOS

Mikko Rantanen (17 goals, 45 assists) and MacKinnon (24 goals, 35 DENVER (AP) — Don’t be fooled: That third-period lead isn’t so safe. assists) get the lion’s share of the credit on the high-scoring top line for Colorado. Not this season, anyway. There’s been quite a comeback for the comeback. Chalk up another assist for Rantanen, though, because he wanted to make sure Landeskog received full credit, too. Landeskog’s tied for the The NHL has seen 110 third-period comeback wins spanning 611 games team lead with 24 goals. through New Year’s Eve. That’s third-most in league history and not far off the 114 rallies in 2014-15 and 113 in ’13-14, according to research by “He flies under the radar,” Rantanen said. “The way he plays the game is the NHL stats and information department. the right way always. That’s real fun to watch.” Going into the new year, the only teams without a third-period comeback WINTER CLASSIC for a win in regulation were Carolina (0-13-2 when trailing after two) and Los Angeles (0-17-1). And the only team not to lose with a final-period The 2020 Winter Classic will be held at the Cotton Bowl in Texas. Dallas lead remains Toronto, which is 19-0-0. will host the 12th edition of the NHL’s annual outdoor game on New Year’s Day against an opponent yet to be determined. Commissioner Translation: Don’t leave early, because anything can and often does Gary Bettman also said the Heritage Classic will return on Oct. 26 when happen in the final period. Winnipeg plays Calgary at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan. In addition, the NHL will bring an outdoor game to the Air Force Academy “Fans are getting what they want,” joked Montreal forward Tomas Tatar on Feb. 15, 2020, as part of the Stadium Series. Colorado will play a said. “It’s got to be pretty intense for them.” team not yet announced. These days and in this speedy version of the game, no lead seems out of LEADERS (through Monday) reach. Take Tampa Bay on Saturday: Down a goal in the third against Montreal, Adam Erne tied it up and then scored the game-winner with Points: Nikita Kucherov (Tampa Bay), 65; Goals: Alex Ovechkin 1:02 remaining. (Washington), 29; Assists: Kucherov, 46; Game-winning goals: Gabriel Landeskog (Colorado), 7; Rookie goals: Elias Pettersson (Vancouver), “There’s no more of sitting back and closing and trying to suffocate the 19; Goals-against average: Robin Lehner (New York Islanders), 2.14; other team,” Montreal coach Claude Julien said when his team was in Shutouts: Marc-Andre Fleury (Vegas), 5; Wins: Fleury, 22; Save Denver on Dec. 19. “It’s a skating game now. With the skating game percentage: Lehner, .930. that’s being allowed right now, there’s more offense being showcased.” GAME OF THE WEEK Try sitting on the puck to protect a lead with the likes of Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, Nikita Kucherov or Nathan MacKinnon attempting to John Tavares leads Toronto against Minnesota on Thursday. Tavares is swipe it away. two goals shy of 300 for his career. He was the first overall pick by the New York Islanders in 2009. Good luck with that. Seattle Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 “The league is just getting faster and faster, young guys are coming through the league and they’re really, really good skaters,” Tatar said. “It’s just a fast game. It’s faster than ever.” Not only that, but these youngsters don’t view things as erasing a deficit so much as an opportunity to crank up the intensity. “Everybody is good throughout the lineup,” Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog said. “That makes it that much harder to put teams away. It goes to show how many good players there are in the league and how many game-changers there are, that can turn things around.” And no slashing. Or holding. Or hooking. Defensemen need to be on their best behavior. “Defensively speaking, when you can’t clutch and you can’t grab — it’s been that way for 10 years now — that really opens up the ice and allows guys to score,” Avalanche defenseman Ian Cole said. “The guys are as skilled as they’ve ever been. Every year, they’re more skilled and scoring more and more ridiculous highlight-reel goals. Guys are shooting from the goal-line and it’s going off the side of the goalie’s mask and in. Guys are doing stuff now that they haven’t done before — or doing it more often. “The skill level is as high as it’s ever been in the league.” Hence, the volume of comebacks. This also helps when down: A positive attitude. “You always have to believe. You can’t give up,” Tatar said. “And you don’t have to. There’s a big chance you score one or two goals and you’re back in the game.” That was the case on Dec. 15 for Dallas, which fell behind the Avs 3-0 after one period and 4-2 after two. The Stars tied it up late in the final period before Colorado scored twice to earn the win. Nothing is easy. “I don’t feel comfortable with any lead until the buzzer sounds,” Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said. “It’s a tribute to the talent around the league. When teams start feeling it, they start coming at you in waves, and it’s tough to defend.” 1123898 NHL

Bettman says he hasn’t talked to Stars about Lites’ comments

By JAY COHEN

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said he hasn’t reached out to the Dallas Stars about CEO Jim Lites’ expletive- laced criticism of high-priced forwards Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin. Lites ripped Benn and Seguin on Friday, telling reporters their play has been “terrible” and saying owner Tom Gaglardi was frustrated as well. The NHL players’ union called the comments “reckless and insulting,” but Bettman sounded as if he wanted to stay out of the situation. “We’re never going to condone profanity,” Bettman said during Boston’s 4-2 victory over Chicago in the Winter Classic on Tuesday. “As a general rule I don’t interfere in team dynamics, internal team dynamics. “I’ve known Jim Lites for as long as I’ve been in the NHL and I know him to be passionate. I also respect the fact that Jamie and Tyler are terrific players and have done a great deal to grow the game in North America, particularly in Texas. … I think we saw some frustration there. That comes from the fact that people are very competitive and want to do better.” Bettman made his remarks after announcing the Stars will host the 2020 Winter Classic at the Cotton Bowl in Texas. He also said the Colorado Avalanche will play at Air Force Academy on Feb. 15, 2020, as part of the Stadium Series, but the league wasn’t ready to announce the opponents for those two outdoor games. “We’ll focus on those the next few weeks,” Bettman said. The NHL All-Star festivities are heading to St. Louis for the third time. The Blues also hosted the event in 1970 and 1988. “St. Louis was a great host for the Winter Classic we recently had there,” Bettman said. “In the final analysis, including the renovation at the Enterprise Center they’ve done, it made it the right time for us to go back.” The Heritage Classic returns on Oct. 26 when the Winnipeg Jets play the Calgary Flames at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan. Seattle Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123899 Ottawa Senators when he had the surgery. “It’s been getting better and better every day, slowly but surely.

“I didn’t cleared yet and I’m not sure when I’ll get cleared. I want to come Mark Stone says contract talks are about to heat up with Senators back and help our team. I feel like I’m feeling good on the ice and pretty much ready to play.” Bruce Garrioch Don’t rule out Pageau for weekend visits by the Minnesota Wild Saturday and the Carolina Hurricanes Sunday.

THE LAST WORDS New Year’s Day was circled on the calendar of everybody who keeps a close eye on the Ottawa Senators. Winger Magnus Paajarvi, who has missed two games as a result of an undisclosed injury, is expected to return against the Canucks. He’ll take Now, the talks with Mark Stone can officially get under way. Tom Pyatt’s spot on the roster after he was placed on waivers Tuesday. Pyatt will likely be assigned to Belleville Wednesday because it’s highly Set to become a unrestricted free agent on July 1, the club’s best player doubtful anybody will claim him … Boucher didn’t name his starter indicated after practice Tuesday he expects contract talks between against the Canucks but don’t be surprised if the club goes back to rookie Senators general manager Pierre Dorion and representatives from Marcus Hogberg. The 24-year-old is the future and he played well Newport Sports in the near future. enough against the Blue Jackets Monday on the road to earn another start. The Senators want to develop young players and this is an “I’m expecting them to start in the next couple of weeks here,” Stone said opportunity to do that … Hope No. 1 goalie Craig Anderson will return in response to a question from Postmedia. “My agent (Craig Oster) and this weekend is fading. He was at the rink Tuesday but didn’t go on the Pierre are going to sit down here and see where it goes.” ice and hasn’t skated since he suffered a concussion on Dec. 28 in Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, teams can hold Brooklyn. informal talks with potential UFA’s in Stone’s situation before Jan. 1, but Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 neither side can sign a deal until now. That means in his case, the clock is officially ticking. The Senators are also holding talks with Matt Duchene and may sit down with Ryan Dzingel, who is also set to be a UFA. When the Senators signed Stone to a one-year contract extension to avoid arbitration in August, the two sides weren’t that far apart on a deal. It’s believed the framework of a long-term extension was close, but one of the big issues they had to overcome was structure. Making $7.35 million this season, Stone, 26, who will likely be named the club’s captain if he does sign a new deal, is likely going to be seeking in the $8-to-$9 million range on an extension. He has 18 goals and 43 points in 40 games this season. But it’s not just the job Stone has done scoring points that the club appreciates about him. He has been a great mentor for top prospect Brady Tkachuk and has formed chemistry with centre Colin White. Stone has been a good soldier for the organization but if he’s not signed before the trade deadline Feb. 25 then there’s a good chance he’s going to be dealt. He said he isn’t bothered by the negotiations during the season and won’t let it be a distraction. “It hasn’t been a distraction yet,” Stone said. “We’re three months into the season and it hasn’t bothered or fazed me one bit. I’m expecting things to get going in the next couple of weeks here.” Stone is only focused on being with the Senators despite speculation in some circles he may move on. Selected No. 178 overall in the sixth- round in 2010, he wants to be part of the solution to help the young players grow during this rebuild. He re-affirmed his desire to stay Tuesday. “This is the only place I’ve ever played,” Stone said. “I’ve loved living in the city of Ottawa, I love playing for this team, so that’s all I can say to that. I’ve loved my time here and, hopefully, it can continue.” WAITING FOR THE GREEN LIGHT If it was Jean-Gabriel Pageau’s decision, he’d be back playing already. Unfortunately, it’s not up to the veteran centre. As the players wrapped up an informal skate Tuesday at the Canadian Tire Centre in preparation for a visit by the Vancouver Canucks Wednesday, Pageau was one of the last players off the ice. No, he hasn’t been given the go-ahead by the surgeon to return from the procedure he had to repair the Achilles tendon he tore on the first day of training camp, but that’s the last step before he can return to playing and this weekend hasn’t been ruled out. “I’m feeling pretty good. Like I said last week, there’s no date really circled on the schedule. I think I’m ready to come back, but I’ll take as much time to make sure I’m 100%,” said Pageau. “I’ll chat with the medical to, they’ve been there from the start and we’re both pretty honest on both sides. It’s going to work out.” Pageau said he’s cleared all the hurdles expect final clearance. “It’s been going well through the steps and I don’t think we’ve had many steps back,” said Pageau, who was scheduled to be out four-to-six month 1123900 Ottawa Senators “We’ve just to get over that threshold and work through this adversity. We’re going to keep trying to go north here.”

Sitting in last place shouldn’t sit well with the Senators. Last place Ottawa Senators try something different on New Year's Day “It should send a message and make us all hungry and embarrassed,” added Duchene. “It’s a logjam and we’re quite far out of a playoff spot but Bruce Garrioch you want to work your way back in there. “We have lots of time, but lots of time doesn’t matter unless you go right now. We’ve got to pull together as soon as possible and start trending The Ottawa Senators rang in the New Year by waking up in last place in upward.” the NHL Tuesday morning. Time is of the essence. Yes, they’ve officially hit rock bottom. Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 Coming off a 6-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets New Year’s Eve on the road, the Senators changed things up by going for a skate without the coaching staff participating Tuesday and had a few laughs during a three-on-three competition to end the day. But, it wasn’t all fun and games. Midway through the skate, alternate captain Mark Stone, who leads by example as the club’s best player, gathered the players at centre ice to let his teammates know none of them should be satisfied right now with the Senators sitting at No. 31 overall. It wasn’t a long chat, but Stone made his point. “The game hasn’t gone our way over the last two weeks,” Stone said Tuesday. “We can’t make excuses for whether it’s injuries, players not being here, we have to hold ourselves to a higher standard. “That’s all I had to say.” He didn’t have to say much because actions speak louder than words and with the Senators in the midst of a five-game losing streak with the Vancouver Canucks in town Wednesday to start a three-game homestand. Really, it’s time to put up or shut up. “It’s frustrating. You never want to be in last place and at the bottom of the standings,” Stone said. “We haven’t been playing great hockey over the last two weeks and I think we know that. “We have to play a better brand of hockey, we have to be on our toes, and have more self-accountability.” The Senators will hit the midway point of the season in Game 41 against the Canucks and though the effort has been good at times, it hasn’t been good enough to win. Yes, the Senators are missing a lot of regulars, but injuries can’t be an excuse. Though coach Guy Boucher told reporters he wasn’t going to have players skate at all, he added there has to be accountability in the club’s current situation. That’s why the decision was made for the players to take a step back without any coaches on the ice. “When you’ve lost a few in row you don’t want the atmosphere to change,” said Boucher. “We’ve had a great atmosphere in the team, but, yes, we’ve gone through some injuries lately and it’s hurt us and some guys are getting a big load. “It will be good for the future, but in the short-term in sometimes hard to get through and you come so close. The last three games we’ve had some really good moments where guys are getting better, the teams are getting better and we’re giving a lot less defensively. “There’s a lot of good things but sometimes you need a little positive to get you going and keep you going.” Associate coach Marc Crawford was on the ice but didn’t participate in any of the drills and stayed around at the end to do some work with a few players. Stone said the approach the club took Tuesday is new to him. “It’s something different and it’s something I’ve never done before,” Stone said. “We’re just trying to gel our group together and trying to take a deep breath and come back with a rejuvenated mindset (Wednesday). “It’s easy to make excuses in this league but nobody feels sorry for you. You’re expected to win games and we haven’t done that. As a whole, we have to find a way to be better as a group.” Centre Matt Duchene said in the current situation it was important for the Senators to go to the rink Tuesday. “Things are tough right now,” said Duchene. “We’ve got a lot of character in here and I don’t think it’s for lack of effort. We played a pretty solid game (Monday) and I think, of the last five, three of them could easily be wins. 1123901 Ottawa Senators Milstein plans on having a “serious conversation” with Panarin during the club’s All-Star break from Jan. 20-29.

“He’s genuinely happy in Columbus,” Milstein told TSN 1050. “Things are Senators and Blue Jackets share similar free agency question marks going well for him and the team. He’s having a good time. Obviously, he loves the organization and there is great coaching.” Ken Warren Together, Panarin and Bobrovsky have considerable leverage in talks with the Blue Jackets, considering they are pivotal players in the stretch run towards the post-season, providing hope that Columbus could finally win a playoff round for the first time in franchise history. COLUMBUS – With the Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets tied 1-1 late in the second period Monday night, Mark Stone found While Milstein says the two are friends, he dismissed suggestions that himself alone in front of goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky following an odd- they would work “as a package” in discussions with the organization. man rush. Maybe it doesn’t serve as much consolation for Dorion as he heads Stone made a nifty deke, before flipping a backhand that appeared towards potentially franchise altering decisions with Stone, Duchene and targeted for the top of the net. Bobrovsky, however, flipped out his Dzingel, but at least he’s not alone in the dilemma he faces. blocker to make a superb stop, a key play in what eventually became a 6-3 win by the Blue Jackets. FACING THE FREE AGENCY QUESTION It was also an intriguing moment for another bigger picture reason. SENATORS Age Stats Current Salary Stone and Bobrovsky are both pending unrestricted free agents. They’re Mark Stone 26 40-18-25-43 $7.35M poster boys for their franchises, with the ability to change games by Matt Duchene 27 34-15-23-38 $6.5M themselves. Ryan Dzingel 26 38-15-12-27 $2.1M By the same token, their futures are up in the air. And it doesn’t stop there for the Blue Jackets and Senators. BLUE JACKETS Age Stats Current Salary As has been well-documented, with time ticking towards the NHL trade Sergei Bobrovsky 30 17-11-1, 2.74, .910 $6.2M deadline of Feb. 25, fellow Senators forwards Matt Duchene and Ryan Dzingel – who broke out of an extended slump with two goals Monday – Artemi Panarin 27 37-12-31-43 $6M are also pending unrestricted free agents. Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 Over on the other side, Bobrovsky is joined by star winger Artemi Panarin as a pending unrestricted free agent. Panarin registered a pair of assists in the Blue Jackets win Monday, giving him 43 points – the same number as Stone. All the players have kept largely silent on where they’re going from here, leaving negotiations in the hands of their agents. Stone did, however, address the issue following practice Tuesday. Due to the fact he’s currently playing on a one-year contract, he couldn’t officially negotiate an extension with the Senators until the New Year. He said he expects contract discussions to begin within the next two weeks and wants to stay because he loves the organization and the city. Three weeks ago, Duchene talked about his status. “I’ve said before, I don’t know what’s going to happen,” he said. “I haven’t heard anything – or much of anything – so far, but it’s obviously a great situation if it works out. I’ve said that all the way along. The message is the same.” Duchene’s agent, Pat Brisson, has had discussions with Senators general manager Pierre Dorion. Represenatives of Newport Sports Management, who represent Stone and Dzingel, were in Ottawa last month. Perhaps Dorion and Blue Jackets counterpart Jarmo Kekalainen, who had a cup of coffee as a player with the Senators in 1993-94, should compare notes on where to go from here. If Bobrovsky, Panarin, Stone, Duchene and Dzingel remain with their teams beyond the trade deadline, they risk being lost for nothing next summer, as was the case last summer when John Tavares skated to Toronto after spending the first nine seasons of his career with the New York Islanders. If the players make it clear they aren’t planning on re-signing with their existing clubs, Dorion and Kekalainen will be forced into making the best possible trade deals before the trade deadline. Could, for instance, the Senators recoup a package that includes a first round choice at the 2019 draft? The Senators are currently without a first- round selection, having traded that pick to the Colorado Avalanche as part of the deal that brought Duchene to the Senators early in the 2017- 18 season. At this point, the biggest difference between the Blue Jackets and the Senators is the fact Columbus is in the heat of the playoff race, while the Senators’ hopes of the post-season have faded. They are now dead last in the NHL standings, eight teams and 12 points out of a playoff spot before Tuesday’s games. While most of the talks have been done outside of the media, Panarin’s agent, Dan Milstein, opened up slightly last week. 1123902 Ottawa Senators

Senators ready to send Tom Pyatt packing

Bruce Garrioch

The Ottawa Senators are ready to show Tom Pyatt the door. The veteran winger, who has two assists and no goals in 37 games this season, was placed on waivers Tuesday at noon and if he clears Wednesday he’ll be sent to the club’s AHL affiliate in Belleville. Pyatt, 31, who has a close relationship with coach Guy Boucher, can’t be protected any longer. Pyatt hasn’t scored a goal in 50 games and his last one came March 13 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He is making $1.1 million in the final year of his deal. “I’ve had him in the American league, Tampa, Europe, Team Canada and here, I’ve known him a long time,” Boucher said Tuesday. “He’s one of those perfect soldiers who is going to do what he’s asked and never have an issue with it ever, ever, ever. “He’s one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. It’s tough but we know where the organization is going. It has to make choices. It’s a player- personnel thing and it’s more of a question for (GM) Pierre (Dorion), but for me personally, just like (Zack Smith) at the beginning of the year, those heart-and-soul guys you wish them the best. “It’s tough moment to have live them with them and you feel for them but there’s decisions that have to be made especially a year like this one where it’s all about the future. You’ve got to make decisions to see what you’ve got and we’ve got some young guys pushing.” After clearing waivers in camp, Smith knows how Pyatt feels. “I was in the same boat not that long ago and it’s not fun place to be in,” said Smith. “When you’re playing on a team and you’re the older guy and you haven’t been meeting the standards with the team or organization then changes are going to happen.” Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123903 Ottawa Senators The year ended with Melnyk and his Capital Sports Management, Inc., involved in lawsuits and counterclaims with Trinity Developments and John Ruddy over what was once viewed as the glittering future of NHL Stevenson: More pain coming in 2019 before things get better for hockey in Ottawa, a rink adjacent to downtown in LeBreton Flats. Senators fans I’m not going to itemize all the other disasters, most of them self-inflicted, that befell the Senators in 2018. We’ve been through them time and again. I mention them only to put in perspective how far this team has By Chris Stevenson Jan 1, 2019 fallen and how far it must try and go to salvage its relationship with many of its customers — if that’s possible.

So, the Senators flip the calendar and roll into 2019 faced with decisions In what can only be described as the worst year in Ottawa Senators that will define the direction of the franchise for the next generation. That history closed in Columbus on Monday, the prospect for things changing is not an overstatement. in the first month of 2019 is grim. As of Tuesday, the Senators are in a position to negotiate with and sign Sorry, Senators fans. top forward Mark Stone to a contract extension. Meanwhile, they’ve had since July 1 to sign No. 1 centre Matt Duchene to a contract extension In fact, the way things are going, the worst year in Senators history could and that hasn’t happened (my thought on that: I think Stone is the be followed by the worst month in Senators history. priority. If they can’t sign him, they’ll shift their sights to Duchene. That’s saying something for a fan base that has been subjected to the Convincing one to sign would be an epic coup at this point). worst hockey on the ice in the NHL in the past 12 months and even Stone said all the right things Tuesday about wanting to stay (what else worse news off it. It has been a remarkable double-pronged disaster with did you expect, really? “I can’t wait to leave this gong show”?) but it is all the Senators now drawing crowds that are closer to their days at the going to come down to Melnyk’s willingness to pay. 10,500-seat Ottawa Civic Centre than their peak at Corel Centre/Scotiabank Place/Canadian Tire Centre. Even that might not be enough now to get Stone or Duchene to commit long term. They could have signed Stone to a long-term deal last Let’s briefly visit and say a merciful goodbye to 2018. summer, but the best they could come up with was a one-year deal to The Senators have the worst record in the NHL in the calendar year of avoid arbitration and put Stone one season away from unrestricted free 2018: agency. As you might have expected, a large reason for the Senators’ deplorable Dorion has been quietly optimistic when it comes to signing Stone and record in 2018 is their performance on the road. They had 11 wins on the Duchene, but if the Senators cannot offer the kind of upfront money road in 2018 (which one was your favourite?) Here are the 10 worst road players of Stone and Duchene’s stature can demand, how do they get records in the NHL in 2018: those deals done? But as bad as the previous 12 months have been on the ice, it has been While the offer to former captain Erik Karlsson was competitive with what the off-ice developments that have really contributed to the nadir of the Drew Doughty got from the Los Angeles Kings (about $88-million for relationship between this franchise and its fans. We’re talking about a eight years) there was little in the way of signing bonuses. The deal franchise that was once a model of efficiency and excellence and is now, wasn’t so much dismissed by Karlsson as it was ignored. The structure of arguably, as we sit here today, vying to be the worst franchise in the the contract has become as important as the bottom line. NHL. The deal signed by John Tavares with the Toronto Maple Leafs is one of The Senators are averaging about 14,520 fans a game (your guess is as the latest examples of what players expect, in part to protect against a good as mine as to how many are actually paid) and only the usual lockout potentially after next season. Here’s how that deal is structured, suspects that are slagged as poor hockey markets (Arizona, Florida, according to my colleague at The Athletic, Pierre LeBrun: Carolina and the migratory New York Islanders) draw fewer on average, Year 1, $650k salary, $15.25M signing bonus; according to ESPN.com’s figures. Year 2, $910k salary, $15.25M signing bonus; The Senators situation here is worse because of the potential of this market. We’ve seen what it can be and could be again. Year 3, $910k salary, $11.09M signing bonus; For people who might read this and say, lay off, the past is the past, Year 4, $910k salary, $8.44M signing bonus; move on, stop dwelling on the negative, stop piling on, I say revisiting the events of this past 12 months is necessary to show how this organization Years 5-7, $910k salary, $7.04M signing bonus in each of those years. needs to repair itself. Tavares gets $44 million of his $77-million contract in the first three years I say that assuming it is even possible for this ownership to repair the of the seven-year deal. schism between the franchise and a portion of its fanbase. Judging by The Athletic’s comments section and what I see on social media, only a Ruddy alleges in his $1-billion counterclaim, which has not been tested in change in ownership is going to bring some fans back into the fold. At court, Melnyk’s Capital Sports Management Inc. doesn’t have the money this point, a sale of the team remains wishful thinking for those fans. to satisfy what look like the most minor commitments in their deal. From Trinity’s pleading: The front office has been largely tone deaf. Its reaction to its public relations disasters have made the situations worse. Two stand out: when Based on that, it’s easy to be skeptical Melnyk has the financial clout to given the opportunity to apologize at the Town Hall meetings for cut something close to even a $10-million cheque ($13.6 million CAD alienating a portion of his fan base with his comments on the eve of the which is relevant since a chunk of the Senators revenue is in Canadian outdoor game, the owner chose to double down. dollars) when July 1 rolls around for the next few seasons. Eugene Melnyk would apologize only for the mistake fans and the media And that would be just for one player. made in the “mischaracterization” of his comments when asked if there Getting Stone, or at least Duchene, under contract is critical for the were circumstances in which he would consider moving the team. Senators to send a message there are decisions being made for the “You know what? If it makes everybody feel better, I do apologize for the good of the hockey operation and the team’s current rebuild isn’t just an mischaracterization. And I should have just been smarter and said no,” excuse to continue cutting player costs to the minimum. he said in response to a request for an apology from a season-ticket If they can’t be signed, they will have to be traded by Feb. 25, so I would holder. think within the next three weeks Dorion will know what he has to do. Fake news. Right around that time the National Capital Commission will have its next It was Trumpian in its arrogance. public meetings regarding the future of LeBreton Flats. It has already served notice it intends to terminate the preferred proponent term sheet it When assistant general manager Randy Lee was arrested and charged signed with CSMI and Trinity Jan. 19, 2018, ending, for now, the with second-degree harassment in June, the team waited two awkward Senators future as we know it at LeBreton Flats. weeks before suspending him pending the outcome of the case (he resigned in August and pleaded guilty to the charge Dec. 20. He was All this will be played out against the backdrop of the Colorado sentenced to time served (one night in jail) and a $120 court fee. A civil Avalanche owning the Senators first-round pick in this summer’s draft. suit is pending). If they have to trade Stone and Duchene for picks and prospects, does anybody see this team finishing anywhere but last and giving the Avs the best odds of getting the first pick? Senators fans can’t even take heart in the fact that each loss brings them closer to Jack Hughes. So, yeah, 2019 could pick up right where 2018 left off. There is hope for the future on the ice, at least. The play of forwards Brady Tkachuk and Colin White and defenceman Thomas Chabot shows star potential. Drake Batherson and Alex Formenton look like they could be top-six forwards. If Marcus Hogberg (who’s looked decent in his first two NHL starts behind the worst defensive team in recent memory) or Filip Gustavsson become the goaltenders some think they can be, that’s a pretty good nucleus for the future. It would be even better with Stone and Duchene. The truth is it’s going to be six months into 2019 before the Senators can put most of this stuff behind them. There’s likely going to be more pain, another big trade or two and hopefully, some kind of long-term plan articulated for a future home that may or may not include LeBreton Flats. The first priority is Stone. Signing a player like him has never been more important to this franchise for the message it sends about direction, both on and off the ice. Let’s see where it goes. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123904 Philadelphia Flyers Simplifying their inept power play, which was 0 for 2 Tuesday and has goals in just four of their last 25 games, needs to be one of the Flyers' New Year’s resolutions. So does this: Playing an engaged 60 minutes Backup Nashville goalie shuts out Flyers in 4th straight loss and not disappearing in some periods, as they have done on too many occasions this season.

The Flyers' next three games are at home, starting Thursday against by Sam Carchidi, Carolina. They are just 7-8-2 at the Wells Fargo Center and have the second-fewest home points (16) in the NHL.

Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Facing backup goalie Juuse Saros instead of the dominating Pekka Rinne was supposed to give the Flyers an advantage Tuesday night. Some advantage. Saros, who took a 3.05 goals-against average into the game, gave a pretty good Rinne impersonation as Nashville defeated the fading Flyers, 4-0, at Bridgestone Arena. The 5-foot-11, 180-pound Saros, a fourth-round selection in the 2013 draft, stopped 32 shots as the Flyers ended their five-game road trip with their fourth straight defeat. The trip started with a 3-2 shootout win over the New York Rangers. Saros denied Wayne Simmonds, who was in alone, with 14 minutes, 24 seconds left in regulation. Thirty-nine seconds later, the Predators' Viktor Arvidsson scored his second goal of the night, this one after a defensive breakdown led to a breakaway, padding the Predators' lead to 3-0 with 13:45 remaining. A little more than eight minutes later, an Ivan Provorov miscue led to Rocco Grimaldi’s goal, which was set up by former Flyers winger Zac Rinaldo. The Flyers (15-19-5), who are last in the Metropolitan Division and 11 points out of a playoff spot, are 3-4-1 under interim coach Scott Gordon. They have scored a total of two goals over their last three games. “We’ve got to be better for 60 minutes. It’s frustrating,” said Claude Giroux, who was minus-4 over the last two games. The Flyers, who won 72.9 percent of their faceoffs but were blanked for the fifth time this season, hit iron four times and outshot the Preds, 32-30. “We had some good chances and didn’t capitalize and they did,” Sean Couturier said. “The next thing you know, we make a mistake and give them a freebie and they take the lead -- and then everyone is forcing their stick and chasing the game.” It was just the ninth time in franchise history the Flyers had played on New Year’s Day -- and only the third time in the last 34 seasons. The Flyers are now 4-2-1-2 in games played on Jan. 1. Thirty-five seconds into the second period, Travis Konecny broke down ice on a two-on-one with Giroux and fired a shot off the post. A short time later, Nashville (24-15-2) went on an odd-man rush after Simmonds and Jordan Weal fell to the ice, and Craig Smith scored from the right circle after taking a feed from Kevin Fiala, whipping a perfect shot over Michal Neuvirth’s right shoulder with 17:57 left in the second. Arvidsson made it 2-0 with 7:57 to go in the second as the Preds got a two-on-one down low, converting a goal-mouth feed from Ryan Johansen. “We shot ourselves in the foot on all four goals,” said Gordon, who addressed the team after the loss. “Lapses on decisions, lapses on reads on the backcheck. There was a huge mistake made on each of those goals.” After losing three straight games, Gordon shuffled his top three lines. Giroux centered the promoted Michael Raffl and Konecny on the top line; Couturier centered the promoted Scott Laughton and Jake Voracek on the second unit; and Weal centered the demoted James van Riemsdyk and Simmonds on the third line. The new lines, and a fourth unit centered by Phil Varone, helped the Flyers hold a huge territorial advantage in the opening period, which ended in a scoreless tie. The Flyers had a 13-6 shots advantage, but Saros had all the answers. Saros made his best save when he stopped Laughton from point-blank range with 34 seconds left in the first. Rinne, the Predators' star goalie, had played on Monday in a 6-3 win at Washington, so Saros was given the start. The Flyers, with rookie Carter Hart in the net, edged Nashville and Rinne, 2-1, when the teams met at the Wells Fargo Center on Dec. 20. 1123905 Philadelphia Flyers

Flyers' rookie Carter Hart not worried about rebounding from his first NHL clunker by Sam Carchidi,

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Flyers rookie goalie Carter Hart isn’t worried about rebounding from the first poor performance of his young career. “I think I’ve always bounced back from tough games,” said Hart, who allowed three goals on 10 shots and was removed early in the second period of Monday’s 3-1 loss in Carolina. “You put it in the archives and learn from it.” Interim coach Scott Gordon knows Hart, 20, has a strong mental makeup, and said he liked the way the goaltender rebounded when pulled from two games when they both were with the AHL’s Phantoms. Gordon recalled removing Hart with his team trailing Providence, 3-0, on Nov. 16. “He just didn’t seem like himself in that game," said Gordon, whose team, with Anthony Stolarz in the nets, rallied for a 5-4 win. ”I told him, ‘You’re playing the next night.’ And he bounced back and had one of his better games. It wasn’t that he had a ton of scoring chances against him, but he had some tough situations with traffic and I thought he responded really well." Hart dropped a 3-2 decision to Springfield that night, but looked dialed in, and a short time later he began to get adjusted to the AHL and ran off an impressive five-game streak. Michal Neuvirth, who stopped all 23 shots he faced in relief of Hart on Monday, got Tuesday’s start in Nashville. Gordon said he wasn’t sure yet if Hart would get the call Thursday against visiting Carolina, the same team that blitzed him for three goals in 22 minutes and 19 seconds Monday. “I’m not looking that far ahead,” Gordon said before Tuesday’s game. Hart, who is 2-3 with a 2.78 goals-against average and .899 save percentage, is looking forward to his next start. “It was just one of those kind of nights,” he said of Monday’s loss. “There’s a lot of stuff I can learn from it and just move on and get ready for the next one. I just have to get back to work.” Power-play woes The Flyers began Tuesday with a 12.6 percent success rate on the power play, which placed them last in the NHL. They had scored a power-play goal in just four of their last 23 games. “I’d like us to have a little more zone time; we haven’t had as much in the last two games,” Gordon said before Tuesday’s contest, “and as a result, we’re not giving ourselves multiple opportunities.” Kris Knoblauch, the team’s power-play coach, could be on the verge of changing the power-play lineup and its scheme. Patrick still sidelined Center Nolan Patrick, who has missed the last three games with an upper-body injury, is questionable for Thursday’s game against Carolina, Gordon said. He is likely to return Saturday against Calgary and South Jersey’s Johnny Gaudreau. Phantoms update Two young players -- 6-foot-5, 212-pound defenseman Phil Myers and 6- 3, 214-pound center Connor Bunnaman -- had impressive weeks for the Phantoms (19-10-3 ). Myers, a right-handed shooter who turns 22 on Jan. 25, had six points (goal, five assists) and a plus-7 rating in three games, and Bunnaman, 20, continued a streak that gave him points in five straight games. After collecting just three points in his first 13 games, Bunnaman has points in eight of 10 contests. Lehigh Valley’s T.J. Brennan, 29, the pride of Moorestown, moved into third place on the AHL’s all-time list for points for a defenseman. He has 454 career points. Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123906 Philadelphia Flyers Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019

Five observations from Flyers’ latest loss: Is it time for new GM to be in selling mode? by Sam Carchidi,

RALEIGH, N.C. -- The Flyers were thoroughly dominated in the second period of their latest loss, a 3-1 defeat Monday in Carolina. Here are five observations: Hurricanes were hungrier On paper, this is a game the Flyers should have won. They have much more talent than the Hurricanes, who were missing one of their top players, Jordan Staal (concussion). But Carolina was the hungrier team, continually beating the Flyers to loose pucks. The Flyers were also sloppy, committing a season-high 29 turnovers. Oh, and they managed a grand total of 12 shots over the last two periods. Unacceptable. When you are buried in the standings, as the Flyers are, you must beat teams such as Carolina, which had lost four of its previous five and had scored a total of two goals in those defeats, if you want any chance of getting into the playoffs. Hart’s clunker Rookie goalie Carter Hart, who made his fifth start, had the first clunker of his young career. He allowed three goals on 10 shots and was removed early in the second period with the Flyers facing a 3-0 deficit. (Michal Neuvirth replaced Hart and played brilliantly, stopping all 23 shots he faced, and was the Flyers' best player. Neuvirth figures to start Tuesday night’s game in Nashville.) What I liked about Hart was how he took the blame for the loss and said he would learn from it, and get better because of it. The kid is only 20 but is mature beyond his years. Power-play blues Interim coach Scott Gordon could pull the Flyers' power-play participants out of a hat and they would be more effective than what we have been watching. Seriously. They were 0-for-2 Monday and they overpassed (again) and didn’t shoot enough (again). The Flyers are making it more complicated than it looks. Their power play is clicking at a putrid 12.6 percent this season, last in the NHL. When a power play has players such as Claude Giroux, Wayne Simmonds, Shayne Gostisbehere, Jake Voracek, and Sean Couturier on it, it should be among the league’s best —not dead last. Power-play coach Kris “Chuck” Knoblauch needs to shake up the personnel and change the scheme. Quickly. Giroux’s struggles Giroux had his worst game on the road trip. Yes, he was dominating in the faceoff circle over the last two periods, but he finished minus-2, had a team-high four giveaways, and committed a late penalty that basically ended the Flyers' chances. It will be interesting to see how he rebounds Tuesday against the gifted Predators. Fletcher watch General manager Chuck Fletcher has been on the job a little less than a month since replacing Ron Hextall, but he can’t like what he sees. The Flyers have fallen into last place in the Metropolitan Division and are 11 points out of a playoff spot. They were five points out of a playoff spot when Fletcher was hired. It has become clear that this team isn’t as good on the ice as it looks on paper. Changes are needed. The chemistry just doesn’t work with this group. Unless this team makes a quick turnaround, as it did last year, here are three words for Fletcher as the Feb. 25 trade deadline gets closer: Sell, sell, sell. 1123907 Philadelphia Flyers

It never gets old when Flyers winger James van Riemsdyk faces his brother Trevor by Sam Carchidi,

RALEIGH, N.C. – Flyers left winger James van Riemsdyk opposed his brother, Trevor, a Carolina defenseman, for the sixth time time in their NHL careers Monday. It’s doesn’t get old, James van Riemsdyk said before the teams met at PNC Arena. “It’s pretty cool still,” said van Riemsdyk, 29, who trains with his brother in the offseason. “When you play every day against each other [as kids] in your basement and in your driveway and all that stuff and you never really expect this is going to happen and now it does. "His story is pretty cool. He wasn’t sure coming out of high school if he was going to just play Division III and focus on academics or give hockey a good shot. And obviously he wanted to give it a shot – and it took off from there.” After spending two years in juniors, Trevor, now 27, followed his older brother’s footsteps and attended New Hampshire. He went undrafted but signed with Chicago as a free agent in 2014 and spent three seasons with the Blackhawks and is in his second season with Carolina. Their young brother, Brendan, 22, is a junior forward at New Hampshire, “and he keeps getting better every year,” James van Riemsdyk said. The van Riemsdyks grew up in Central Jersey, and their parents attended Monday’s game in Raleigh. When James played for Toronto, his father used to attend games and wear a hat with the Original Six logos on it that included his sons’ teams, the Maple Leafs and Blackhawks. Before the Hurricanes' 3-1 win Monday, James van Riemsdyk said “you want to win every battle” against your brother. “You don’t want him to make you look bad.” James van Riemsdyk took six shots and was minus-2 in the game, while his brother had an “even” rating. Neither had any points. Elliott update Goalie Brian Elliott, who hasn’t played since Nov. 15, is making progress from an apparent hip/groin injury. “Brian is doing well. This is the best he’s felt in a long time,” general manager Chuck Fletcher said, adding he was hopeful Elliott could return to action in about three weeks. Fletcher said Elliott will not need surgery. Goalie Anthony Stolarz, sidelined with a suspected knee injury, is also making progress but is a few weeks away from returning, the GM said. Breakaways The Flyers were charged with a season-high 29 giveaways, including four by Claude Giroux (minus-2) on Monday. ... Justin Williams, selected by the Flyers in the first round of the 2000 draft, played in his 1,200th game, joining Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Matt Cullen, and Zdeno Chara as the only active players to reach that milestone… Wayne Simmonds played in his 800th career game. ... The Flyers are now 9-6-2- 2 in New Year’s Eve games in their history. Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123908 Philadelphia Flyers time drops here, there’s nothing wrong with Carter getting a lot of games in Lehigh Valley. It’s still a work in progress, but clearly he’s shown he’s a kid with a lot of potential.” Rookie goalie Carter Hart struggles as Flyers fall to Carolina, 3-1, for Carolina, which will face the Flyers in Philadelphia on Thursday, began third straight loss the night with four losses in its last five games and had scored a total of two goals in those defeats. by Sam Carchidi, It was the first time Rod Brind’Amour had coached against his former team as Carolina’s head coach. The Hurricanes have struggled to score goals this season, but they have played with the feistiness their coach displayed as a player, entering the game fourth in the NHL in hits. RALEIGH, N.C. – Two nights after a late-game collapse turned what would have been a victory into a gut-wrenching loss in Florida, the Flyers Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 needed a strong response to get back on track. That didn’t happen. Rookie goaltender Carter Hart had the first poor game of his young career, allowing three goals on 10 shots before being yanked in Carolina’s 3-1 win over the Flyers on Monday night at PNC Arena. “We came out and played hard at the start, and I wasn’t up to the challenge,” Hart said. “They’re three pucks that I should have, and going forward I’ll learn from it, put it behind me and move on to the next one.” It was the Flyers’ third straight defeat, and it was against a low-scoring, struggling team that was missing one of its best players, Jordan Staal, who is sidelined with a concussion. The Flyers, who will end their five-game road trip Tuesday night in Nashville, got to within 3-1 with 17 minutes, 22 seconds left in regulation as Jake Voracek converted a sweet feed from Wayne Simmonds off the rush. They would not get any closer. Hart was replaced by Michal Neuvirth with 17:41 left in the second period and the Flyers facing a 3-0 deficit. Neuvirth (23 saves on 23 shots) was superb the rest of the night, especially on a strong Carolina power play early in the third. After Curtis McElhinney made a terrific save to deny Scott Laughton on a two-on-one, the Hurricanes raced down the ice and 18-year-old Andrei Svechnikov scored from the high slot off an odd-man rush, giving Carolina a 3-0 lead with 17:41 to go in the second. It was the 11th goal of the season for Svechnikov, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 draft. Just six seconds into the second period, the Flyers stood around and watched as Jordan Martinook beat two defenders and fired a shot off Hart and into the net to make it 2-0. It was the fastest goal at the start of a period in Carolina’s history. The Flyers were soundly outplayed in the second period, getting outshot, 14-6. “We got away from what was working for us,” defenseman Radko Gudas said. “I think our D started holding the puck way too much; we got spread way too much, and that caused those turnovers that cost us the second and third goals. It was tough for us to get the momentum back after those two goals." “We stopped advancing the puck and started playing behind the goal line,” interim coach Scott Gordon said about the second period. “That was one of the things when I got here that we talked about, trying to get out of our zone as quick as you can. ... The second period, that’s what cost us the game.” Hart, 20, allowed Lucas Wallmark’s shot from the high slot to sail over his glove with 9:23 remaining in the first period. It was the first bad goal he had surrendered in his five NHL games. Hart took a 2.28 goals-against average and .917 save percentage into the night. “I’m pleasantly surprised,” general manager Chuck Fletcher said before the game. “We think very highly of Carter and strongly believe he’s going to be a very good goaltender in this league for a very long time. It’s a difficult league for a 20-year-old, regardless of position, let alone goaltenders. I think we’ve all been pleasantly surprised by his poise and his demeanor." As he watched the team’s morning skate Monday, Fletcher said that whether Hart remains with the team “will be determined, and not everything will depend on him. It’ll depend on the health of our other goaltenders.” Brian Elliott could return in three weeks. “I think the most important thing for Carter is that we just find a way to keep him playing, and if that’s here, that’s great,” Fletcher said. “If the ice 1123909 Philadelphia Flyers

Carter Hart to start for Flyers, who must prove they’re playoff contenders by taking care of Hurricanes by Sam Carchidi,

RALEIGH, N.C. – The Flyers play Carolina in two of their next three games and, if they are legitimate playoff contenders, they need four points in the two matchups with the Hurricanes. Nothing less. Carolina has the same lowly record (15-17-5) as the underachieving Flyers, but the Hurricanes’ roster isn’t nearly as talented as Philadelphia’s. In addition, one of the Canes’ best players, Jordan Staal, is injured and not expected to play when the teams meet at 6 p.m. Monday. The Hurricanes have lost four of their last five and two straight. In those four losses, they have scored a total of two goals. In other words, they are a bad hockey team, and the Flyers -- who are 10 points out of a playoff spot but have two games in hand -- need to take care of business. This is the first time the Flyers will meet Carolina with Rod Brind’Amour as the Hurricanes’ head coach. Brind’Amour, who was inducted into the Flyers’ Hall of Fame in 2015, played for Philly from 1991-2000. He ranks eighth in Flyers history in assists (366) and 10th in goals (235) and points (366). » READ MORE: Once the Flyers' by-example leader, Rod Brind’Amour set to begin head-coaching career Carter Hart time Carter Hart will make his second straight start for the Flyers. He is coming off a 34-save performance in a 2-1 loss to Florida, which scored a pair of late goals that were not his fault. “He played well, and is just trying to build on what he’s been doing,” Flyers interim coach Scott Gordon said. “It wasn’t a hard decision and that’s nothing against [Michal Neuvirth]. We have back-to-back games here and we’ll see how tonight’s goes and make a decision on tomorrow’s game tomorrow.” The Flyers play in Nashville on Tuesday. In four games, Hart is 2-2 with a 2.28 GAA and .917 save percentage. Brotherly shove Flyers winger James van Riemsdyk will face his brother, Trevor, a Carolina defenseman, on Monday. It will be the sixth time that will have played each other. Their parents are traveling to Raleigh to be at Monday’s game. Williams’ milestone Former Flyer Justin Williams, 37, will play in his 1,200th NHL game Monday. He will join Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Matt Cullen, and Zdeno Chara as the only active players to reach that milestone, and he will become the 110th player in NHL history to reach that mark. Drafted by the Flyers in the first round (28th overall) in 2000, Williams scored 43 goals in 226 games with Philadelphia to start his career. Since turning 30, he has played in 574 out of a possible 577 games, the sixth- most games played during that span. Breakaways The Flyers will use the same players as last game, but the lines and pairings may have a few changes, Gordon said. ... Goalie Petr Mrazek, who struggled mightily in his brief time with the Flyers last season, or Curtis McElhinney will face the Flyers on Monday. Both have played in 199 career games. Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123910 Philadelphia Flyers

Flyers’ Jori Lehtera charged in Finnish drug case, prosecutors seek five- month sentence by Tricia L. Nadolny,

Flyers forward Jori Lehtera was charged Monday with buying drugs from a large cocaine distribution ring in his native Finland. Lehtera, 31, is accused of purchasing eight grams of cocaine in June and July, in nightclubs in the town of Tampere, according to Finnish news reports. Prosecutors are seeking a five-month sentence. Lehtera, one of 22 defendants in the case, told police that he knows two of the other men charged but denied buying drugs from them. He said he once paid 6,000 Euros for one of the men to attend drug rehab. “I paid for his detoxing treatment," Lehtera told the police, according to the Urheiluruutu program on Finnish TV1. "For my part, it was charity. I felt I did the right thing.” The trial, which started Monday, is expected to last six days, the Finnish newspaper Aamulehti reported. District court judge Petteri Kosonen told Iltalehti, another paper, that it is unclear whether Lehtera will appear in court or be represented by his lawyer. Kosonen also said it is possible Lehtera’s case could be split from the others and handled at another time. After practice in Raleigh, N.C., on Monday morning, where the Flyers played the Carolina Hurricanes on New Year’s Eve, Lehtera said he would fight the charges. “It’s all false,” Lehtera said. “I haven’t done anything wrong. I’m going to clear my name. I don’t want to comment anymore. I’ll comment after the whole case is closed.” A spokesperson for the Flyers declined to comment. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said in an email that Lehtera had yet to be legally served. He said Lehtera plans to contest the charges. “As a result, we will not be intervening at this point and will continue to monitor the legal proceedings,” Daly said. Lehtera, who will become an unrestricted free agent after the season, has not played for the last six games and was not in the lineup Monday night. The Flyers have said he is not injured, but Lehtera has played in only 24 games this season. He has a goal and two assists. Lehtera played professionally for eight seasons in Finland and Russia before joining the NHL with St. Louis in 2014. The Flyers acquired him from St. Louis in the summer of 2017. He had three goals and eight points in 62 games last season. The case against Lehtera first made headlines in Finland in the fall, but the details of the investigation did not become public until Monday. In Finland, police records are often not released until the first day of a trial. Prosecutors seek harsh punishment for Flyers' Jori Lehtera. He is charged with narcotics offence. The large cocaine ring itself seems to be very Finnish with saunas and lake cottage. We are following the trial. https://t.co/rjlc7YgycJ — Tuomas Rimpiläinen (@TRimpilainen) December 31, 2018 Other defendants in the case, some who could face up to 10 years in prison, are charged with bringing drugs into the country and selling them. In total, the ring is accused of moving more than 1.8 kilos of cocaine in the Tampere region, according to court records. Some of the drugs were allegedly stashed in the locker room of a public sauna, Aamulehti reported. Lehtera has a vacation cottage in the area, and two of the suspects were taken into custody at the home in August, the Finnish television station MTV3 reported in September. One of the main suspects told police that he sold Lehtera cocaine, totaling eight grams, over several separate occasions this summer, according to police documents. As part of the investigation, police recorded phone calls between Lehtera and another suspect. Urheilu reported that police questioned Lehtera twice, in August in Finland and in November over Skype. Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123911 Philadelphia Flyers

Flyers try to regroup from crushing loss; power play still struggling mightily by Sam Carchidi,

SUNRISE, Fla. -- Carter Hart deserved better. The rookie goalie suffered the loss Saturday, but could not be faulted. “Carter played a great game, even his reactions on the goals were right on,” interim coach Scott Gordon said after defensive breakdowns led to two late goals, enabling Florida to jolt the Flyers, 2-1, at the BB&T Center. Hart, 20, stopped 34 of 36 shots in the first road game of his young career. “He was our best player and gave us a chance to win,” Gordon said. “If anything, it falls on the rest of us. There’s no way that he should feel the two goals are the reasons we lost the game.” Hart (2-2), who is expected to get the start Monday in Carolina, has a 2.28 goals-against average and .917 save percentage in four games. “I felt confident in the net,” Hart said after the loss. “I think we did a really good job of limiting their [quality] chances …. and keeping them to the outside and just making sure I could see every puck.” Florida goalie James Reimer was impressed with Hart. “Obviously, that kid’s got a bright future,” said Reimer, a nine-year NHL veteran. ""I think he sees the puck well, so we were just lucky enough to make a couple good plays and be able to beat him." While Hart was outstanding, Jordan Weal, subbing for injured center Nolan Patrick, was probably the Flyers’ best forward. He set up Shayne Gostisbehere’s early goal and was in the middle of a handful of other scoring chances. Playing for just the third time in the last 13 games, Weal looked energized as he centered Scott Laughton and Michael Raffl. “I thought as a line we were really working hard,” Weal said. “We have so much speed on that line and we were getting on pucks quick.” The Flyers, for the umpteenth time this season, lost a game because they lost the special-teams battle. They were 0-for-2 on the power play, while Florida was 1-for-3, including the game-tying goal with 6 minutes, 44 seconds left. For the season, the Flyers have outscored opponents in special teams only three times in 37 games, and are 2-1 in those three contests. They have been outscored in special teams in 15 games, winning five of them (5-8-2). The Flyers’ power play, despite an abundance of talent, has clicked just 12.8 percent of the time and is last in the NHL. The power play had shown some positive signs a few games ago, but it has struggled after the holiday break. On Monday, the Flyers will face Carolina for the first time this season. The low-scoring Hurricanes (15-17-5) have the same record as the Flyers and have lost two straight. They are averaging just 2.43 goals per game, which is next to last in the NHL. The Flyers will try to regroup from a devastating loss, one in which they allowed a late three-on-two rush that ended with Jonathan Huberdeau’s finishing off slick tic-tac-toe passing play and scoring with 66 seconds remaining. “It’s tough….but we go right back at it, so that’s a good thing,” Weal said. “We have a couple of tough buildings to play in coming up, especially Nashville” on Tuesday. The Flyers are 1-1-1 on the five-game trip and are 3-2-1 since Gordon replaced Dave Hakstol. Breakaways Travis Konecny is goalless in his last 10 games, and Wayne Simmonds has just one goal in that span. … The Flyers are averaging 2.92 goals per game, tied for 17th in the league. Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123912 Philadelphia Flyers “The biggest thing tonight is we didn’t capitalize on some of the chances we did have,” interim coach Scott Gordon said.

Breakaways Flyers stunned by two late goals in loss to Panthers The Flyers will finish the five-game road trip by playing Carolina on Monday and Nashville on Tuesday. ... Patrick, who has an undisclosed by Sam Carchidi, upper-body injury, participated in Saturday’s morning practice but isn’t expected back in the lineup until Thursday against visiting Carolina. ... In the World Junior tournament, Flyers prospect Joel Farabee had a hat trick Friday, as the United States blasted Kazakhstan, 8-2. ... Hart has SUNRISE, Fla. – Rookie goaltender Carter Hart was less than seven allowed just one first-period goal in his four starts. ... The Flyers won 69.4 minutes away from his first NHL shutout. percent of the faceoffs. Instead, he was handed a crushing 2-1 defeat Saturday night by the Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 Florida Panthers at the BB&T Center. In Hart’s first NHL road appearance of his young career, Jonathan Huberdeau finished off a tic-tac-toe passing play by scoring from the right circle with 1 minute, 6 seconds left to snap a 1-1 tie. A defensive breakdown led to a three-on-two, and the Panthers capitalized, ruining a brilliant performance by Hart (34 saves). “I think we shot ourselves in the foot,” said defenseman Radko Gudas, who knocked a puck out of midair near the goal line to prevent a goal midway through the third period, keeping the Flyers ahead, 1-0. “We had the game under control. We were doing lots of good things ... and then we just collapsed the last few minutes.” On Huberdeau’s game-winner, Gudas said he and defenseman Robert Hagg “didn’t have a good gap for us to cover. We just have pay more attention to details, like a controlled breakout that ends up in our net. That’s unacceptable.” The 20-year-old Hart looked unflappable all night. “He was there for us," Gudas said, "and we let him down, for sure. ... It sucks not getting any points out of here when I thought we had the game under control.” Hart has a 2.25 goals-against average in four games. “I felt good. I thought we did a good job of keeping things to the outside, and collapsing the net front so they didn’t get many second or third opportunities,” Hart said. “We just have to put this one behind us and be ready for our next challenge." With 9:50 left, Hart stopped Aleksander Barkov on the doorstep, and the Flyers maintained their lead. But the Panthers ended Hart’s shutout bid when Mike Hoffman scored a power-play goal from the right circle, taking a slick pass from Huberdeau and whipping a one-timer past the rookie. That tied the game at 1-1 with 6:44 left. The goal was scored after James van Riemsdyk was called for hooking Colton Sceviour in the neutral zone while the Flyers had 15 seconds left on a power play. Van Riemsdyk disagreed with the call. “It’s a little bit suspect. I’ve never heard of a hooking call with one hand on your stick,” he said. Before the goal, the Flyers again failed on a power play, showing why they have inexplicably fallen to the bottom of the league in that category. The Flyers jumped out to a 1-0 lead less than two minutes into the game, when defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere, who grew up near the Panthers’ arena and attended their games as a kid, ripped a left-circle shot past James Reimer. The goal drew cheers from the thousands of Flyers fans, including his family and friends. It was Gostisbehere’s third goal in 10 games against the Panthers, and his second at the BB&T Center. Jordan Weal, who replaced the injured Nolan Patrick, got into the zone and made a nice pass to Gostisbehere. “I saw a chance for me to get up there in the play and I yelled before he gave it to me,” Gostisbehere said after scoring his fifth goal of the season. “I was just waiting for him to give me a little flash screen to take the goalie’s eyes away, so I picked my spot, and I had a lot of time.” Florida, playing on back-to-back nights, failed to get a shot on a five-on- three power play that lasted 40 seconds in the first period. Sean Couturier led the Flyers on the penalty kill. The Flyers later had a golden chance when Florida had a five-on-four power play, but Couturier could not handle Claude Giroux’s two-on-one pass. 1123913 Philadelphia Flyers

Flyers prospect Joel Farabee stars in United States' win in World Junior tournament by Sam Carchidi,

Flyers prospects continue to make Ron Hextall and Chris Pryor look good. Hextall, the former Flyers' general manager, and Pryor, an ex-assistant general manager, were both fired last month. But they did a terrific job in drafts. One of their draft selections, Joel Farabee, scored a natural hat trick in a 6:52 span of the first period Friday, leading the United States past Kazakhstan, 8-2, in the World Junior Championships in Victoria, British Columbia. Farabee, a freshman at Boston University, became the second Flyers' first-round draft pick to score a hat trick in the tourney. Morgan Frost, who is starring in juniors, did it in Canada’s first game, a 14-0 whipping of Denmark. Frost had five points in that win. Coincidentally, Farabee (first-rounder in 2018, 14th overall) and Frost (first rounder in 2017, 27th overall) were selected with draft picks acquired as part of the deal that sent Brayden Schenn to St. Louis last year. The Flyers (15-16-5) play in Sunrise, Fla., on Saturday night, and 20- year-old goaltender Carter Hart — another draft pick of Hextall’s and Pryor’s — will face the Panthers (15-15-6), who dropped a 5-3 decision to visiting Montreal on Friday. Breakaways Jordan Weal, who is replacing the injured Nolan Patrick, will center Scott Laughton and Michael Raffl. ... Patrick skated Saturday morning but is expected to miss the next three games. ... Among the 130 players who have taken at least 200 faceoffs this season, Weal is No. 1 with a 60 percent success rate. Laughton is fourth (59 percent) and Giroux is fifth (58.6 percent). ... Wayne Simmonds needs two goal to reach 200 as a Flyer. ... Injured goalie Brian Elliott is not close to returning. Tonight will be the 19th game he has missed this season. ... In franchise history, the Flyers are 29-16-1-1 in road games against the Panthers. ... The Flyers' power play is last in the NHL (13.1 percent success rate), while the Panthers' PP Is No. 2 (28.4 percent). Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123914 Philadelphia Flyers Flyers are 1-1 against the Panthers this season, winning a 6-5 shootout and dropping a 2-1 decision.

Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 Jordan Weal to replace Nolan Patrick in Flyers lineup; Carter Hart in net against Panthers by Sam Carchidi,

SUNRISE, Fla. – Center Nolan Patrick will miss the last three games of the Flyers’ road trip with an undisclosed upper-body injury suffered Thursday, causing Jordan Weal to return to the lineup Saturday night in Florida. Weal, who has three goals and four assists in 22 games, centered Oskar Lindblom and Michael Raffl during Friday’s practice at the BB&T Center, but interim coach Scott Gordon said he wasn’t sure if that would be the line’s makeup Saturday. “I’m going to sleep on it and go from there,” he said. Weal is eager to return to the lineup for the first time since Dec. 15. He has played in just two games this month. “In December, I haven’t been in many games, but the team’s been playing well,” Weal said. Sitting out for long stretches and trying to get back into the flow without showing rust, Weal said, “is probably one of the toughest things in hockey…I just have to take it one shift at a time. Simplify things and get pucks in. Get pucks low and go to work from there, and the rest will start coming.” Added Weal: “A lot of the things during the season are reactionary because you’ve been playing so many games and you know where everyone is, so it’s just a matter of getting into that vibe. I get to play with some good players, so I just have to use them, get pucks in and play to our strengths." Having played under Gordon when he coached the AHL’s Phantoms, Weal said, gives him a level of comfort. “Gordo was really good for us down in Allentown,” Weal said. "We had a really good team when I was there and he really keeps everyone accountable, keeps everyone in line, and that’s all you can ask for from a coach. I think that’s why we had so much success down there. No one was going away from the team (concept) and the team’s systems.” Weal has been on a lines with Lindblom or Raffl, but all three have not been together in a game. “But there’s definitely a lot of familiarity with us,” said Weal, who scored the game-winning shootout goal as the Flyers defeated Florida, 6-5, on Oct. 16. Raffl was goal-less in his first 20 games, but has goals in each of the last two contests, including Thursday’s wild 6-5 overtime loss to Tampa Bay. “Wealsy should be fired up and I’m sure he’ll be excited to get out there," Raffl said. “It’s going to be good, I think.” Gordon said rookie goaltender Carter Hart, who is 2-1 with a 2.36 goals- against average and .904 save percentage, would make his fourth start in the matchup with the Panthers. It will be the first road start of his young career. “One of my buddies plays there, Mark Pysyk. He works out at the gym I work out at in the summer, so I’ve known him for a fair amount of years. It’ll be fun to play," Hart said. Hart spent Christmas Eve with Claude Giroux and his wife, and Christmas with Dale Weise and his family, along with Weal. “Just to be around families around Christmas, it was really nice of them to open up their homes,” Hart said. Breakaways With a little under eight minutes left in Thursday’s second period, Patrick was injured when he collided with Ondrej Palat in front of the net. Gordon said he expected him to be sidelined at least four or five days, which means he will miss road games in Florida, Carolina, and Nashville. … Gordon said he wasn’t alarmed by Patrick’s pedestrian numbers (five goals, six assists) in his second season. A lot of players who are drafted No. 2 overall “usually go to teams that don’t have the offensive players we have here,” Gordon said. “So he probably loses a little opportunity (for more minutes) on the power play. To me, what I like is his defensive play, which ultimately is going to lead to more offensive opportunities.” ... The 1123915 Philadelphia Flyers neutral zone, he’s actually changed a little bit there as well. The forwards coming off the wall and more into the middle and opening up the outside lanes so you have a little more room for passing and more options.” Interim coach Scott Gordon makes a favorable early impression on >> READ MORE: Recapping the year in Philly sports energized Flyers | Sam Carchidi When he was hired on Dec. 17, the guy known as “Gordo” knew he was, in effect, being given a 51-game tryout to see if he could straighten out a by Sam Carchidi, team that had grown stagnant, a team whose power play and penalty kill had dropped toward the bottom of the league, a team that needed a fresh approach. SUNRISE, Fla. – It’s only a small sample size, but the Flyers seem to Gordon goes into each game “trying to identify what the opposition does have bonded with new interim coach Scott Gordon. and what puts us in a favorable situation and the means with which we attack it -- whether it’s though practice, game video, I try to present it to They also look more focused and more comfortable in their first five the players.” games since Gordon replaced Dave Hakstol. If he turns things around, gets the Flyers into the playoffs, and wins a Gordon, a Massachusetts native, has a down-to-earth, approachable round or two, Gordon figures to remain in his position without the demeanor and is honest with his players. He praises them when it’s “interim” tag. deserved, but he also gets in their faces when they do something wrong. If not, Joel Quenneville will be on speed dial. “I think Scott has come in here and brought us lots of energy,” defenseman Robert Hagg said after the Flyers overcame a 5-2 third- Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.02.2019 period deficit and salvaged a point in a 6-5 overtime loss Thursday against Tampa Bay, the NHL’s best team. “Ever since he’s been here, it hasn’t been quiet on the bench once. He fires up all the guys and the guys are firing up each other.” Heading into the weekend, the Flyers were 3-1-1 under Gordon. “He’s strong on details and making sure we all play the same way,” said captain Claude Giroux, who has had five head coaches in his 11 seasons with the Flyers. “We changed a few things and he’s making sure we’re all on the same page.” Gordon is a lot more talkative on the bench than the stoic Hakstol. >> READ MORE: Some Flyers pay their own airfare to get some rest and get around NHL travel ban “That’s definitely noticeable; he likes to give you some feedback – good and bad,” said left winger James van Riemsdyk, who played for Toronto when Gordon was an assistant coach with the Maple Leafs from 2011-12 to 2013-14. “Scott’s more vocal. Hak’s a little more methodical and he thinks things through,” defenseman Andrew MacDonald said. “Not that Scott doesn’t think things through.” MacDonald said Gordon has a way of teaching players about their mistakes without “beating them down” and has “done a real good job communicating with us since he got here.” Gordon, 55, is confident in himself and his ability, even though his record as an NHL coach (64-94-23) wasn’t exactly successful. That stint, with the Islanders from 2008-09 to early in the 2010-11 season, was sort of a no-win situation for the coach. MacDonald was on the Islanders when Gordon was their coach. “We didn’t have a great team. We were young and we had some older guys, too,” MacDonald said. “I think he was bringing in some new ideas and it took a bit for us to jell. With the older guys it was tough … because he was trying to preach speed and promote a fast game and at that time, it was kind of a possession game..” Hakstol never played professionally and he became the third person to go directly from the college ranks to a head-coaching job in the NHL. Gordon had a brief NHL stint as a goalie with the old , and, before he coached in four seasons with the AHL’s Phantoms, he spent two-plus years with the Islanders as a head coach and three years as an assistant with Toronto. “I’m sure that definitely helps; he’s been through it all before,” said van Riemsdyk, who called Hakstol and Gordon “great guys and good people” to be around. “He’s been around the game and been around the league for a while, and obviously he’s done a really good job in Lehigh [Valley] with that team, so it’s certainly not like he’s being thrown into something he can’t handle.” Eleven Flyers, including those currently injured, played for Gordon with the Phantoms. That should help make the transition smoother. “I feel comfortable with him,” said defenseman Travis Sanheim, who played under Gordon for parts of two seasons at Lehigh Valley. “I know what he expects and his systems. We’ve obviously changed a few things, and I’m sure throughout the next few weeks, he’s probably going to make some more adjustments. Little things, like on the breakout, trying to keep it on your forehand as much as possible as a defenseman, and in the 1123916 Philadelphia Flyers • The Flyers got a break by avoiding 2017-18 Vezina Trophy winner Pekka Rinne and instead facing backup goalie Saros. They didn't take advantage as Saros picked up the shutout behind 32 stops. Predators 4, Flyers 0: Another ugly road trip poses more questions • The Flyers are off from practice Wednesday before opening a three- game homestand Thursday against the Hurricanes (7 p.m./NBCSP), who will be well-rested coming off a 3-1 win Monday over the orange and By Jordan Hall January 01, 2019 black. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 Once again, the Flyers are limping home from a road trip. The Flyers were routed by the Predators, 4-0, Tuesday night at Bridgestone Arena, giving them their third four-game losing streak just 39 games into the season. After beating the Rangers at Madison Square Garden to open a five- game road swing, the Flyers (15-19-5) stumbled hard out of the three- day Christmas break to drop the next four by a combined score of 15-7. Not long ago, from Dec. 8-15, the Flyers went 1-3-1 on a five-game road trip, which resulted in Dave Hakstol's firing. The Flyers, who are 6-12-4 since Nov. 13 with a minus-27 goal differential, have more points (35) than just two teams in the NHL — the Blues (34) and Senators (34). Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher was brought in to produce more progress this season, but the idea of buying at this point, on this team, seems almost crazy. The Predators (24-15-2), on the other hand, have won two straight after losing six in a row. • The problems are starting to compound for the Flyers, who scored just two goals over the final three games of the trip. They did have chances Tuesday, though. Travis Konecny struck the post during a 2-on-1, Sean Couturier was denied from point-blank range trying to deke goalie Juuse Saros and Wayne Simmonds was turned away on a third-period breakaway. When Simmonds failed to beat Saros, the Predators came back the other way 40 seconds later and made it 3-0. • Shayne Gostisbehere's offensive numbers aren't there compared to a season ago but his defense saved the Flyers from falling behind 2-0 (for the time being) midway through the second period. With chaos in deep and Michal Neuvirth out of his crease, Gostisbehere denied a Roman Josi shot directly in front and a second later was nailed in the helmet by Ryan Johansen's blast, causing a stoppage in play (see video). Unfortunately for Gostisbehere, the play wasn't really rewarded as the Flyers surrendered a goal to Nashville less than two minutes later to Viktor Arvidsson. Travis Sanheim was outmuscled in front by Arvidsson and couldn't stop Johansen's pass, giving Neuvirth little chance to make the save. Sanheim is 22 years old and could still use added strength. • Craig Smith opened the game's scoring 2:03 into the middle stanza when he jumped into the rush and beat Neuvirth. Arvidsson then tacked on another with that 3-0 breakaway tally to put the game out of reach in the third period. • Flyers interim head coach Scott Gordon tried some adjustments with the power play by moving Jakub Voracek to the point and Gostisbehere to the wing. It was a good thought. Voracek can utilize his skill and pass-first mindset up top, while Gostisbehere can fire away from the circle with Claude Giroux lurking in the opposite circle. The man advantage did create opportunities and hit iron on one chance but went 0 for 2. Overall, it ranks dead last in the NHL and is 9 for 93 (9.7 percent) since Oct. 13. We'll have to wait and see if Gordon sticks with that tweak in the hopes of getting much-needed results. • The Flyers survived madness during the second period to keep the game from completely uncoiling at the time when Neuvirth abandoned his crease to impede a potential breakaway. Neuvirth went all out to disrupt the chance but the puck was never cleared, forcing the goalie to scramble back to his crease in the nick of time to prevent a 3-0 deficit. It didn't matter much at all because things only got worse in the third period, while Neuvirth finished with 26 saves. 1123917 Philadelphia Flyers Oskar Lindblom-Phil Varone-Dale Weise Defensemen Flyers at Predators: Live stream, storylines, game time and more Ivan Provorov-Travis Sanheim Andrew MacDonald-Radko Gudas By Jordan Hall January 01, 2019 Robert Hagg-Shayne Gostisbehere Goalies The Flyers are hoping a new year brings new fortunes for their 2018-19 Michal Neuvirth campaign. Carter Hart For a second straight season, the club is in last place entering New Year's Day. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 To ring in 2019, the Flyers (15-18-5) visit Nashville Tuesday night for a matchup with the Predators (23-15-2). Let's look at the essentials: • When: 8:30 p.m. ET with Flyers Pregame Live at 8 p.m. • Where: Bridgestone Arena • Broadcast: NBC Sports Philadelphia • Live stream: NBCSportsPhiladelphia.com and the NBC Sports MyTeams app • The Flyers are looking to avoid their third four-game losing streak of the season. Meanwhile, their season-long win streak is three games, which they've done just once. All of which typifies the inconsistency that has plagued the Flyers, who have yet to find any rhythm to go on a run. At this point last season, the Flyers had already won six straight games before going 8-4-0 in January. In 2018-19, they're going to need a bigger turnaround. The #Flyers entering New Year's Day ... 2018-19: Last place in Metro at 15-18-5 with 35 points and a minus-25 goal differential. 2017-18: Last place in Metro at 16-14-8 with 40 points and an even goal differential. https://t.co/hklP7EbVEZ — Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) January 1, 2019 • A few surprising stats: Travis Konecny has gone scoreless in five straight games, tying his longest stretch of the season. Claude Giroux has gone scoreless in two straight games for the first time since mid-November. The Flyers have not received enough secondary scoring this season, so when Konecny and Giroux are quiet, the team's struggles hit hard, which has been the case recently. • With Tuesday's game being the second of a back-to-back situation, the Flyers are turning to Michal Neuvirth, who played well in relief during Monday's 3-1 loss after Carter Hart allowed three goals on 10 shots (see observations). Neuvirth has discovered some confidence with 86 saves over his last three games (two starts). He also has superb career numbers against the Predators with a 3-1-1 record, 1.36 goals-against average and .955 save percentage in five lifetime matchups. • Nashville had lost six straight games before beating the Capitals, 6-3, on New Year's Eve. Despite the skid coupled with injuries, the Predators still allow the NHL's fewest goals per game at 2.58 and are 17-2-0 when they score first. Nashville is also 14-7-0 at home and surrenders just 2.19 goals per game at Bridgestone Arena. Projected lineup Forwards James van Riemsdyk-Claude Giroux-Travis Konecny Michael Raffl-Sean Couturier-Jakub Voracek Scott Laughton-Jordan Weal-Wayne Simmonds 1123918 Philadelphia Flyers “It’s just different,” Simmonds said, adding that he now prefers the left side. “You’re so used to playing a position your whole life. The last time I played any other position besides right wing I think I was 14 and I was What does 2019 hold for Flyers pending free agent Wayne Simmonds? playing center. It’s nice. I get a chance to go over there and play with two great players. I’m loving the opportunity that I’m getting right now.”

The question remains what that opportunity will bring. Dave Isaac, NHL writer Published 1:19 p.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019 Is it the attention of a new team via trade? Is it an against-all-odds rebound and playoff run in Philadelphia? No change at all and riding out the season in orange and black without a trip to the postseason? Wayne Simmonds had to do a few things more than once in 2018. “Obviously it’s been a little bit of a whirlwind,” Simmonds said, “but I’ve He had to rehabilitate his skating twice, first due to injury and then got to worry about what I’m doing on the ice, not what’s going on off the surgery recovery. The 30-year-old winger had to stave off numerous ice.” trade rumors, play multiple positions and try to negotiate a contract extension with two Flyers general managers. Courier-Post LOADED: 01.02.2019 The pending free agent could sure use some stability and assuredness in the new year and his current team could use some too. As the Flyers find themselves once again in the basement of the Metropolitan Division, Simmonds is the team’s most tradable asset. He knows that the longer he goes without a new deal, the more likely he’s not playing for the Flyers come next season. Maybe even earlier. “I’ve been in this league a long time and I don’t think it’s a secret what I bring to a team or to the rink,” said Simmonds, who began 2019 third on the team in goals with 11 and remains the most assertive voice in the locker room. “Just go about it the right way for me and hopefully the success personally will come, will start to come, and the team success will come as well.” He’d prefer to stay a Flyer. He’s maintained that since training camp when he said he wasn’t interested in talking about negotiations or making his situation a distraction all season long. But it sure can be a distraction. The players know what the scenario is for the team’s salary cap, that Simmonds is due a raise after averaging more than 29 goals per season since he came to Philadelphia, that 21-year-olds Travis Konecny and Ivan Provorov will be due new contracts before next season and that after age 30 players are less likely to receive long-term contracts. Chuck Fletcher now holds the reins for the team going forward, including deciding where Simmonds will play. “Just keep going,” Simmonds said. “It’s not my last year in the league. Maybe if it was gonna be my last year in the league and this was everything, but fortunately I’m still young enough to still play some years after this year. I know I still have a future in this league. Keep working hard, keep my mind focused on the right things and continue to play hockey.” There is no doubting the effort, despite Simmonds still not looking his best. When training camp rolled around, he said he felt much better after having hip surgery. The pain wasn’t nearly as much of an issue as it was last season when he played through a pulled groin and a tear of his pelvic ligament. These days, he says, are way better than even September. He was told that recovery from the surgery is essentially completed at nine months and he’s at about eight and a half. The biggest change Simmonds has found is what players call their gait, how their hips and legs line up as they take a stride. Simmonds, 6-foot-2, has long legs and he had to start with short strides, which felt like he was spinning his wheels. It's starting not to feel like that for him anymore. “You’re working a lot harder than you have to work and you’re burning more energy,” he said. “That takes away from your game when you think about it. I’m liking the position I’m in right now and feeling a lot better and hopefully things start coming together.” The new position, that he played for most of December, is left wing. He mostly had Sean Couturier as his center and Jake Voracek on his right wing. That was a change that Dave Hakstol made and interim coach Scott Gordon kept until Monday night in North Carolina. For most of the 3-1 loss to the Hurricanes, Simmonds was with Scott Laughton and Jordan Weal but finished the game on the left with Voracek and Claude Giroux. “We’ve got obviously some pretty big bodies with Wayne, Jake and (James van Riemsdyk) and they’re all point producers,” Gordon explained. “I think those guys have to get their ice time to be effective. Simmer (against the Tampa Bay Lightning), he could have had three goals easily. He provides that net-front for Coots. It gives him more room.” 1123919 Pittsburgh Penguins “You just give yourself the best chance to make every save,” Murray said. “You know you’re not going to make every save, but all you can do is put yourself in the best position to make every single save.” An in-depth look at Matt Murray's turnaround for Penguins Jonathan Bombulie Tribune Review LOADED: 01.02.2019 JONATHAN BOMBULIE | Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, 6:45 p.m.

Penguins goaltender Matt Murray blocks a shot during the first period against the Red Wings on Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018. When it comes to celebrating the new year, Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray got a head start. His New Year’s Day — the moment old acquaintances are forgotten and hope for a better future springs eternal — happened Dec. 15. That’s when Murray returned from a monthlong absence because of a lower-body injury. Before the time off, he was 4-5-1 with an .877 save percentage. Since he returned, he’s 5-0-0 with a .959 save percentage. It’s a turnaround that deserves further inspection. How did Murray go from one of the worst goalies in the NHL, statistically speaking, to one of the best in such a short period? The simplest explanation would be Murray is healthy now and he wasn’t before, but he dismisses that as excuse-making. “I feel good health-wise, for sure, but I don’t think it was hindering me,” Murray said. “I’m not going to make an excuse and say it was hindering me in any way. When it got to that point, that’s when I came out of the lineup. But I feel good right now. Moving in the right direction.” The second simplest explanation would be the Penguins were playing a loose, ugly defensive game before Murray left the lineup, and they’ve tightened up considerably since. A look at the numbers sends mixed signals in that regard. The Penguins are giving up more shots now than they did earlier in the season. In Murray’s first 11 appearances, he faced 28.8 shots per game. In his last five starts, he’s facing 34.4. Murray has no problem with that. “It feels like they’re pretty much to the outside, for the most part,” Murray said. “I think you’d really have to sit down and look at a heat map, or whatever they’re called, to compare before and after. I really can’t say for sure. As long as they’re to the outside, the number of shots is not much of an indicator.” The heat maps indicate Murray is facing fewer Grade-A scoring chances recently than he did earlier in the season. In his first 11 starts, he faced 9.2 high-danger shots per game, stopping 71.3 percent of them. Opponents’ average shot distance was 34.4 feet, according to naturalstattrick.com. In his last five starts, he has faced 8.0 high-danger shots per game, stopping 92.5 percent of them. Opponents’ average shot distance was 36.9 feet. Number crunching aside, there’s another possible explanation for Murray’s turnaround that the goalie seems to buy into, at least to an extent. He’s confident now. When he’s confident, he trusts his reads. At the NHL level, all goalies are exceptional athletes. All have impeccable technique. What separates the best from the worst is the ability to anticipate plays and act accordingly. That’s always been a strength of Murray’s game, and it is now, for sure. “I can always make a pretty good read, but sometimes there’s bad bounces or guys fan on a shot or whatever,” Murray said. “In that case, the outcome is not going to match what you read it to be. A lot of it is trusting your reads, not worrying about what happens and letting the rest take care of itself. I know I’m a pretty smart hockey player, and I know how to read plays. I think the biggest thing is just trusting it. If a weird bounce happens, so be it.” While it might not be particularly academic analysis, that last part plays a big role in Murray’s renaissance, too. Pure chance. Sometimes a puck hits the post and bounces in, and sometimes it bounces out. 1123920 Pittsburgh Penguins instead of waiting around for things to happen.” Playing with Crosby and Guentzel, if he bolts into sweet spots, they will find him.

While he had 31 goals as a senior at Northeastern, when he was up for The Penguins' Zach Aston-Reese is capable right now of doing his best the Hobey Baker Award, he is not projected to be a big-time goal-getter Hornqvist impression in Pittsburgh. Could he get 25 in a season? Maybe, especially if he eventually elbows his way onto the top power play. MATT VENSEL Sullivan believes Aston-Reese is capable right now of doing his best Hornqvist impression as the pesky net-front presence on the second power play. “We just choose not to use him there,” said Sullivan, who is trying to spread the special-teams minutes around. ST. PAUL, Minn. — As he seemingly does every week or two, a sweaty Sidney Crosby sat at his locker stall after a 3-2 win Monday night in Instead, the Penguins deploy Aston-Reese as one of the six penalty- Minnesota and answered questions about what he liked about the latest killing forwards they roll out in most games. His pressure high in the right winger to put up points on the top Penguins line. defensive zone has helped them rank among the league’s best at stifling power plays. He has buried a short-handed goal, too. To start the season, it was Patric Hornqvist’s bull-in-a-china-shop routine in front of the other team’s goalie. Then it was Dominik Simon’s sneaky The Penguins believe he is a good defender at 5-on-5, too, which is why give-and-gos or similar dishes from Derick Brassard. Just a few days they trusted him to remain on Crosby’s line in critical late-game situations ago, it was Bryan Rust’s wheels on the wing. in the win against the Wild. But Rust got hurt Saturday in St. Louis, creating an opportunity for Zach “He’s a big body. He’s strong on the boards. He has good awareness Aston-Reese to show what he could do playing with Crosby. Surprise, away from the puck. He’s willing to block shots. He’s a good shot surprise. There were goals. blocker,” Sullivan said. “For all those reasons we think as a coaching staff he’s deserving [to play in] those types of situations.” “He plays a pretty simple game,” said Crosby, who with two points against the Wild has 10 in the past four games. “He uses his speed to get And that’s why Aston-Reese seems likely to continue to play a role in in on the forecheck and he’s strong on the puck. He goes to the net. He’s Pittsburgh in the second half of the season, even after the next right physical, too. I think he brings that element.” winger shuffles onto Crosby’s line. Coach Mike Sullivan, who is being credited with making various Post Gazette LOADED: 01.02.2019 adjustments to help spark a successful turnaround in December, watches the Penguins practice a couple of months ago. Added Aston-Reese, a Staten Island native who will be close to home Wednesday when the Penguins visit the New York Rangers: “[Chippiness is] kind of what will keep me in the spot I’m in moving forward. So that’s a part of my game that I’m trying to key on consistently.” While the Penguins feel there are similarities between the playing styles of Aston-Reese and Hornqvist, the veteran winger who in the past had a lot of success with Crosby and left winger Jake Guentzel, it seems likely that Aston-Reese won’t be on this line for long. But by continuing to make the most of his minutes while slotting into new, critical roles for the Penguins, Aston-Reese has endeared himself to Mike Sullivan’s coaching staff. “He’s grown so much. And I think there’s a lot more to his game [that he hasn’t showed at the NHL level],” Sullivan said Monday after a sixth consecutive win. “And so I think he’ll continue to get better. We’re hoping his offensive game will grow here a little bit more.” In the 6-1 win Saturday in St. Louis, Aston-Reese redirected a hard Kris Letang pass over the left shoulder of Blues goalie Jake Allen. It looked a lot like a few goals that Crosby has scored this season, drifting off the right post to tip a shot with his back to the net. Then Monday night in Minnesota, with Rust out due to the lower-body injury that sent him to the locker room in St. Louis, Aston-Reese picked up another point playing with Crosby. As the final seconds of the first period ticked down and the Wild tried to get a few fresh bodies onto the ice, Aston-Reese created a chance with a savvy forecheck. Aston-Reese, gliding alone into the Wild zone, closed in on Jared Spurgeon, pivoting a couple of times to swing his stick into would-be passing lanes. Suddenly, the indecisive Wild defenseman was on the boards and out of time. Stuck, Spurgeon tried to squeeze the puck up the wall but Aston-Reese picked it off and quickly flipped it to Crosby. “He just made a good play to strip the puck and he got his head up and he found me,” he said. Crosby’s shot missed the net but caromed off the end boards to Phil Kessel, who swatted the puck toward the Wild crease. It deflected off the stick of Ryan Suter, the other Wild blue-liner on the ice, and past goalie Devan Dubnyk to give the Penguins a 2-1 lead. In 26 games since his early November call-up, Aston-Reese has five goals and four assists with a plus-5 rating. Not bad for a guy who is not expected to do much scoring. Aston-Reese has talked a lot about trying to play with more poise when he gets scoring opportunities, whether it’s on the Crosby line or skating in the bottom six. He also feels he needs to “move my feet a little more 1123921 Pittsburgh Penguins That victory sort of started this current run, as they’re 14-4-2 since then. (Although, to be fair, Sidney Crosby’s return from a three-game absence and the absurd play that came with it has had a serious effect, too.) 20 Penguins Thoughts: How Mike Sullivan has been pushing all the right Because of how their defensemen have played — there’s more that we’ll buttons get to — the Penguins have been markedly better at preventing odd-man rushes. JASON MACKEY “Our forwards are tracking back,” Kris Letang said Saturday. “They’re helping us defensively. It doesn’t allow teams to have quality chances on the rush.” In his observations of the Penguins before he took over as general Sullivan said it’s been more about decision-making. manager, Jim Rutherford said he noticed something about them and former coach Dan Bylsma. “We want to try and keep the puck alive in the offensive zone by being aggressive on the walls, but we have to be selective,” Sullivan said. “We're going to have a coach who can make the proper adjustments “We’ve got to make good decisions there if we’re going to limit any of during a game, during a certain period of time in the regular season or those odd-man rushes going the other way. I give our defensemen a lot during a playoff series,” Rutherford said, later adding, “I don't think they of credit. I think they’re making better decisions in those areas.” could make the proper adjustments against certain teams." 4. That aforementioned practice also included a passionate defense, by Suffice to say, Rutherford is nowhere near worried about his team’s Sullivan, of how the Penguins want to play. ability to adjust these days, especially not after the job coach Mike Sullivan has done this season. “Show me a team in the league that’s trying to play slow that’s winning,” Sullivan said. “Show me a team in the league that’s trying to play on their While Sullivan hasn’t exactly overhauled the way the Penguins play, he heels that’s winning. It’s easy to throw darts and suggest that the style of did make certain key adjustments during another slow start that are play is the reason why we’re having the struggles that we’re having.” looking really good now, as Pittsburgh wrapped up an 11-3-1 December with a six-game winning streak, allowing just seven goals in those final We’ve seen this out of Sullivan a few times now. He’s not a huge fan of half-dozen wins. people questioning whether the Penguins can play the same fast, aggressive style, and I can understand why. “Sully has been great,” assistant coach Mark Recchi said Saturday in St. Louis. “He has such a great hockey mind. He sees the game very well, When he arrived in December 2015, he had a huge hand in helping the and he teaches it well. Because of that, our overall game has been Penguins carve out their current identity of speed and skill. I’m not sure growing.” what their identity was under former coach Mike Johnston and probably neither do they. How has the Penguins’ game grown because of Sullivan’s hockey mind? Here are a few things his players brought up last week. But with Sullivan, it was plenty clear. Speed and skill. Aggressiveness. Resilience. Relentless pressure. Always pushing the pace. Which makes 2. Zach Aston-Reese said it was around the Buffalo or Tampa game another subtle tweak — even if some denied it was a tweak at all — that back in mid-November whenever Sullivan made one of his more much more remarkable. significant changes this season. 5. OK, so maybe tweak isn’t the proper word, as the Penguins wanting “Coming out of our zone, our weak-side winger, instead of having him fly their forwards to track back and help on defense doesn’t qualify as a out of the zone, slash across and try to push the defense back, we had revolutionary concept. But I do find it interesting what Sullivan has been him come lower and underneath, just because we weren’t making those emphasizing to his forwards. little plays,” Aston-Reese said. “A lot of times, we would turn it over, and where that winger was, it would leave that side of the ice open. A lot of Basically making sure that, no matter what, the F3 (or high forward) stays teams capitalized on that. above the puck, ensuring the Penguins play it a little safer and that guy is in position to prevent an easy transition the other way. “I think that was one of the bigger adjustments we’ve made.” There’s the perception, right or wrong, that Sullivan wants the Penguins Interesting point and certainly a much-needed tactical adjustment, but to play a certain way, almost a hair-on-fire or caution-to-the-wind sort of what Sullivan and the Penguins have done hasn’t been confined to the deal, whatever those sayings actually mean. positioning of the weak-side winger. There’s been more. By tweaking what amounts to the spacing on the Penguins’ forecheck, Before we get there, though, can we just pause and appreciate the Sullivan has injected a (much-needed) sense of responsibility. Aston- coaching job Sullivan has done this season? It’s been exemplary. Reese said what the Penguins are doing actually resembles how the Baby Penguins forechecked in Wilkes-Barre when he was there. Penguins ring in the new year with sixth win in a row, defeating Wild, 3-2 “Two guys are going, both defensemen down the wall, you kind of have Not that there’s any doubt he was already among the best two to three that third forward lurking around,” Aston-Reese said. “The game’s so coaches in the NHL right now, even if, like Mike Babcock, he’s fast, I don’t know if we’re the fastest team anymore. There’s a lot of fast (laughably) never won the Jack Adams Award. But six weeks ago, this teams. ... If you’re constantly trying to full-court press, it doesn’t always team looked rotten, seemingly left for dead on the side of the road. work.” Yet you never heard of any controversy. You never heard the coach This change has worked, Matt Cullen said. saying incendiary stuff or publicly bashing his players — who were at fault for most of it. “We made a slight adjustment to stay above the puck a little more,” Cullen said. “I think that helped a lot in getting us a little safer and living At a time and in a city where Mike Tomlin has come under heavy scrutiny to fight another day.” — and some of it justifiably so — and Clint Hurdle hasn’t taken the Pirates to the postseason since 2015, please take a moment this New 6. One interesting thing Cullen brought up involved this stuff taking root Year’s Day to appreciate what you have in Sullivan. (it didn’t, not immediately anyway) and the difficulty the Penguins had adjusting at first. 3. One of the Penguins’ more notable practices of the season happened on Nov. 20, at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex. Cullen said their lack of confidence during last month’s struggles affected how tentatively the Penguins played. The Penguins had just blown a three-goal lead to the Sabres at home and lost in overtime. It was potentially the most embarrassing and “When we’re playing with confidence and have that little spark, we’re frustrating loss during a lousy November. really hard to play against,” Cullen said. “Whenever we have any hesitation in our game, that translates into trouble. We’re caught in At practice, Sullivan spent more time than usual on the Penguins’ between. We can be exposed.” breakout — emphasizing breaking the puck out of defensive-zone coverage instead of dump-ins and also reinforcing when the team’s Well, they don’t look that way anymore. defensemen should pinch versus when they should not. “When things go right, it’s easier to believe it,” Recchi said. “Once the The next night, the Penguins put forth one of their finest defensive efforts players see things going right, everything goes in the direction.” of the season in a 5-1 win over the Dallas Stars, and they really haven’t looked back since. 7. For the record, I don’t think any of this stuff is too terribly seismic. It’s been important, yes, and I think Sullivan’s persistence has been “Pittsburgh was such a big chapter of my life,” Vitale said. “My second remarkable. I also give him a lot of credit for how he’s able to asses his baby was born there. It’s where I broke into the league and stayed in the team, see what it needs and implement the proper things to remedy league for a long time. Played with some of the best players in the world. whatever is wrong. Great memories. Sometimes you pinch yourself. You don’t believe it to be true.” We saw that during back-to-back Stanley Cup runs, when Sullivan deftly made adjustments within playoff series. And we’ve seen it recently with 13. Vitale said it is definitely weird calling games of players he either dragging the Penguins out of their early-season funk. played with or against, especially given his young age. It probably bears repeating: The Penguins did not struggle because But he said it also helps him add some different insights into the game they’ve tuned out their coach. It’s the total opposite. They’re here, now, a and what might be going through these players’ heads. competent hockey team again, in large part because of him. He also seems to be genuinely loving life now on the other side of the “He keeps reminding us that we’re all in it together, staff and players fence. included,” Bryan Rust said back in late November. “He’s trying to work as hard as we are to try and get out of it. I think that builds some morale “I was away from the game for two years after I retired,” Vitale said. “Now when coaches say that they’re in it with you.” being back in the game, it’s been a lot of fun. I do miss the culture. I miss the people. In my mind, hockey players are the funniest group of guys 8. The Penguins may have the perfect goaltending situation on their that I’ve ever been around. I think it keeps me young.” hands right now, with how much Matt Murray and Casey DeSmith have been pushing each other. 14. Aston-Reese’s confidence is certainly growing. DeSmith, I’d argue, isn’t a backup. But he’s obviously not the starter, It’s evident when you talk to him. It’s evident when you watch him play. either. It’s somewhere in between. I don’t know if it was his fight the other night against Joel Edmundson of Murray is the guy and would clearly start Game 1 if the playoffs started St. Louis — as ugly as it was for Aston-Reese — being elevated to tomorrow. But if DeSmith gets hot and Murray struggles, I don’t think Crosby’s line or what, but he’s definitely been more willing to engage in a Sullivan would question for a second leaning on DeSmith for a stretch. physical game, the type that’s probably going to be his future in this league. It’s making both guys earn every start, and it’s been something management has been badly wanting since the Penguins lost Marc- Makes me think of a conversation he and I had a couple weeks ago Andre Fleury to the expansion draft. about moving his feet. Said he’s doing that more and that it’s been a constant adjustment for him recognizing just how much you have to do 9. I understand why people are mad the Penguins never made it work that at this level to thrive. with Daniel Sprong, but the better Marcus Pettersson plays — and let’s not lose sight of how much he’s solidified things for them — the better 15. For a guy who’s known around the league for his amazing goal-less that trade looks. drought a couple years ago, and who struggled at the beginning of this season, Riley Sheahan sure has a couple pretty ones this season. Yes, Sprong might score. But the Penguins have guys who can do that. They needed someone capable of preventing goals. In Winnipeg and also the one he scored Monday night. You still probably want more than five in 38 games for a guy making $2.1 million per Plus, now Rutherford has a plethora of defensemen. Come deadline season, but they showed it is in there somewhere, right? time, the prices for those guys are substantially higher than for someone like Sprong — a young kid who has potential but no real track record of Speaking of Sheahan, when Jake Guentzel signed his five-year, $30 success in the NHL. million contract extension four days ago, Sheahan was one of the first players who came to mind. Between Chad Ruhwedel, Jamie Oleksiak, Olli Maatta or even perhaps Jack Johnson, I’ll be interested to see what sort of offers Rutherford The Penguins are going to need some cheap labor to make everything fields for defenseman as we get closer to February. work, and Teddy Blueger — who scored twice Monday and leads the Penguins’ AHL club with 15 — is their most NHL-ready prospect. 10. I’m really surprised Derick Brassard hasn’t been able to make it work better with Phil Kessel. Brassard missed the chance to spring Kessel To me, they can go younger and cheaper there, probably without losing a twice against the Wild, plays that pretty much have to be made for ton. But we’ll see. someone who plays on a line with him. 16. Many people ask about Blueger — and rightly so. I, too, am surprised Skill and vision still exist in the top-six or top-nine, and Brassard has had he hasn’t come up here yet. both throughout his career. However, I don’t sense a huge amount of urgency from the front office to I do think the Penguins would really like to see this work, but if you’re not call up Blueger or some of the other kids in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, putting Kessel in position to score, if you’re not creating offense yourself, especially not now that the NHL club is winning. if you’re not playing solid defense, winning faceoffs and killing penalties There’s a fairly obvious understanding they’re going to be needed next … what is it you say you do here? year — and I could certainly wind up wrong here — but it doesn’t sound 11. Was good to catch up with former Penguin Joe Vitale in St. Louis, like there’s much serious thought being given to any NHL promotions on where he works as an analyst on the Blues radio broadcasts. that front at the moment. I think Vitale also liked seeing some of his former teammates, too. The Penguins are extremely happy with their prospect depth, though, between Blueger, Thomas Di Pauli, Ethan Prow, Adam Johnson, Sam Funny moment from morning skate at Enterprise Center, when Fox Lafferty and Anthony Angello, in addition to goaltender Tristan Jarry. Sports Midwest rinkside reporter Andy Strickland joked with Vitale, “Hey, I thought they retired your No. 46?” Vitale shot back a couple words I I think they think much higher of their own pipeline than outsiders, and I can’t type here. tend to agree with them. Some good players on that list. “The new job has been terrific,” Vitale told me between periods. “The 17. The usage of Crosby and Guentzel on the penalty kill has been an travel is a little tough at times with a family, but I love being around interesting trend to track. hockey, I love being around the team, I love seeing players I played with What started out as almost an experiment by Sullivan — the odd shift or against. here and there — has turned into a legitimate part of the Penguins’ “Having a rapport with them makes my job a little bit easier. The hardest strategy. part is trying to convey what I see and what I know to be true on the ice, They’re using those two more and rotating six forwards instead of four. to simplify it and try to speak it in a language to make people understand. That comes with time.” “When we use guys like Crosby and Guentzel on there, it makes it that much more dangerous if there are loose pucks or turnovers that are 12. At 33, Vitale is certainly among the youngest color men in the created, those guys in particular have the ability to finish,” Sullivan said business, perhaps the youngest, and he absolutely looks like he could after Saturday’s game. “By going with a three-tandem rotation up front as still play. opposed to two, it gives us more juice to chase pucks because the rest is After morning skate, Vitale and Crosby had about a 20-minute chat a little bit longer. They can be more active. … I really think it’s helped out outside of the Penguins dressing room, and Vitale said he also caught up in our puck pursuit and pressure.” with Letang. Crosby has been on the ice for a minute or more of PK time seven times this season — and six of those have come since he spent 1:21 on the penalty kill Dec. 15 against the Kings. He was at 58 seconds Monday. It seems — and the numbers back this up — that Sullivan started tinkering with the idea, liked it a lot and keeps going back to it because it’s been good for those involved. 18. Not only the chances and puck pressure the Penguins can create, but that unit has also been crazy good. • They had killed off 15 straight before Minnesota’s Mikko Koivu scored a power-play goal Monday. • Over the past 22 games, the Penguins are 47 of 53 (88.7 percent) on the penalty kill. • They have the best road PK in the NHL at 87.7 percent. “We haven’t been getting out of our limitations,” Aston-Reese said. “We’ve been smart. We’re starting to create some chances for ourselves as of late. “We’ve been pretty solid with our forwards in the middle of the ice not jumping or being overly aggressive. There’s always a safety net, always some protection in the middle of the ice.” 19. Number of the week: 23 That’s the swing in plus/minus of the Penguins franchise centers, Crosby and Malkin, over the past 20 games. Crosby is plus-11, while Malkin is minus-12. Malkin’s last game as a plus came on Dec. 6. Generally not a fan of plus/minus, but when the difference is that stark, it’s sort of tough to ignore. 20. Non-hockey thought of the week Sort of hockey but not related to the Penguins: Is it just me, or is there a sad amount of buzz for the Winter Classic? These outdoor hockey games have been overdone, and while Notre Dame is a cool venue, the fact that it includes the Bruins and Blackhawks — two teams that have seen more than their fair share — has to contribute to the overall fan fatigue. I loved the concept when it came out, but they’re lousy to watch on TV, the hockey’s just not that good, and they’re hardly unique anymore. Would be great to see the NHL maybe incorporate some different teams — maybe sell the stars the way the NBA so ably does — and unique venues. Or maybe just scrap the idea altogether. Post Gazette LOADED: 01.02.2019

1123922 San Jose Sharks

What we know -- and what we don't -- about Sharks at NHL halfway point

By Chelena Goldman January 01, 2019 5:23 PM

Coincidentally, the halfway point of the Sharks’ 2018-19 campaign fell right on New Year’s Eve during San Jose's 8-5 loss to the Calgary Flames. So while everyone has no doubt switched out their calendars and kicked 2018 to the curb already, this is a perfect time to take a look at what we’ve learned about San Jose so far this season – and the question that is still unanswered. What we know: The Sharks have the ability to live up to that preseason hype It may have taken the Sharks a couple of months to iron out the kinks. But a strong December showed the Sharks can buckle down, play a detail-oriented game on a regular basis and even string some wins together. There were plenty of questions surrounding the Sharks when their season first got underway, and their level of play was inconsistent from night to night. Most onlookers focused in on how superstar defenseman Erik Karlsson was playing and adapting to being on a new team. But the addition of the defenseman wasn’t the only thing the Sharks had to work through early in the season. There were early-season injuries that shook up the lineup. Then, there was the rigorous travel schedule in October and November. No player or coach would use any of factors as an excuse for not playing well. But, there’s no denying they had an impact on San Jose’s ability to capitalize on chances and play a strong 60-minute game on a regular basis. But through their difficult stretches of games, the Sharks remained confident they were better than their record showed. After a closed-door meeting during their four-game losing streak at the end of November, San Jose began to turn thingsaround. Once the Sharks defeated the Montreal Canadiens on Dec. 2, the team started getting back to that level they wanted to reach. With a strengthened defensive front, a few new faces in the lineup, and the confidence from a few more wins, San Jose started turning those chances and into goals and turned the losing streaks into strings of wins. What we have yet to learn: Exactly how they match up with the other big teams in the league The Sharks believe they can match up with any team the NHL has to offer and win, no matter how good the opposition is. Some nights, that appears to be true. On other nights, however, San Jose is constantly playing catchup. They twice beat the Nashville Predators, who boast one of the league's best scoring defenses, but the Sharks also lost twice to the speedy Toronto Maple Leafs. San Jose so far has split the season series with the Calgary Flames, winning 3-1 at SAP Center last month and losing a wild one on Monday. Long story short: When it comes to facing off against the league’s toughest competition, the Sharks’ body of work is sort of a mixed bag. Perhaps the best indicator we’ve seen so far this season of how the Sharks match up against the NHL’s toughest teams was their pre-holiday faceoff against the Winnipeg Jets. While San Jose ended up losing that game, the Sharks stayed toe-to-toe with Winnipeg all night. The loss snapped the Sharks' then-five-game winning streak but coach Peter DeBoer told the media he thought the effort was the best he’d seen from the team over that six-game span. Sharks captain Joe Pavelski added: “We expected to win this game. Especially with the way we’ve been playing, with the way our game is trending.” Now, it remains to be seen if the Sharks can get on a similar winning streak and emerge victorious in those big games. With the second half of the season about to get underway and their earlier issues seemingly behind them, now is the Sharks' opportunity to show they can consistently play at a level that will push them past the league’s toughest competition. Their Jan.5 contest against the Eastern Conference-leading Tampa Bay Lightning would be an excellent place to start. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123923 San Jose Sharks

NHL rumors: Sam Bennett won't be disciplined for hit on Radim Simek

By Ali Thanawalla January 01, 2019 1:03 PM

If you watched Sam Bennett's dangerous open-ice hit on Sharks' Radim Simek in the final minute of Monday's game, you figured the Flames center would be facing a lengthy suspension. Well, you'd be wrong. According to The Athletic's Kevin Kurz and Sportsnet's John Shannon, the NHL won't discipline Bennett. At all. No suspension. No fine. Nothing. Bennett's hit on Simek came with 25 seconds left in a game the Flames were leading 8-5. Simek had just passed the puck and Bennett went straight at the first-year Sharks player, running him over with a vicious hit. Simek stayed down on the ice for a while. The Sharks have yet to provide a medical update on Simek. The Sharks' bench was furious with the hit and made their feelings known to the nearby Flames' bench. After the game, Sharks coach Peter DeBoer called the hit "predatory." If you're stunned the NHL has chosen not to discipline Bennett, you're not alone. A 3-goal game with :22 seconds left and it’s cool (for a player with a reputation) to go head-hunting? Department of player “safety”? https://t.co/uCnPvmo9YT — Brodie Brazil (@BrodieNBCS) January 1, 2019 So THIS is a 2 game suspension...? pic.twitter.com/imuirgA5Nv — Brodie Brazil (@BrodieNBCS) January 1, 2019 Yet, THIS is not a suspension. pic.twitter.com/dzBuUtEM5Q — Brodie Brazil (@BrodieNBCS) January 1, 2019 And nothing for THIS either? I rest my case. pic.twitter.com/UwzCbf521Q — Brodie Brazil (@BrodieNBCS) January 1, 2019 It appears the NHL's Department of Player Safety is okay with players hitting a defenseless opponent with 25 seconds remaining in a three-goal game. So much for player safety. Good to know. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123924 San Jose Sharks that included two first-round picks. The Raiders gave their best player to the Bears on Sept. 1 and didn’t get anything back that could help the 2018 team, meaning the Silver and Black were discernibly worse (and a New Year’s resolutions Bay Area sports teams will try to keep in 2019 bit demoralized) after the trade. Mack was a discussion point throughout the Raiders’ season, especially with him thriving in Chicago and turning the Bears into a legitimate By NBC Sports Bay Area staff January 01, 2019 contender for the NFC title. All the Mack talk wore on Gruden after a while, and he certainly doesn’t want to continue that conversation in 2019. The Raiders will use one of The calendar has flipped to 2019, which means it’s time for the “new the two first round draft picks coming up this April that they received for year, new us” promises that many of us intend to keep but likely will not. Mack, so he’ll come up again then and again whenever that player is evaluated. New Year’s resolutions can be a good way to identify goals, though, and since sports organizations typically are performance-driven machines, The Raiders desperately want to move on from their controversial trades, you can bet they have some. but can they really do that? It won’t be easy. Winning football games and making smart personnel decisions is the only way to truly put the Khalil We asked NBC Sports Bay Area’s roster of insiders and reporters to Mack and Amari Cooper trades in the rearview mirror. examine what would be New Year’s resolutions for the teams they cover. Whether or not those teams will stay with these goals will be known soon -- Scott Bair … Giants: Start the year healthy, and stay healthy Warriors: Pay the price to keep Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson As the Giants go into a new year with a goal of being a bit more The Warriors would like to have all four of their All-Stars — Stephen competitive, they are not unlike much of their fan base. If you asked them Curry, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson — on the for a resolution in 2019, they simply would like to be a bit healthier. roster when they open Chase Center in 2019. This is an aging roster, one that should be deeper when Farhan Zaidi is Curry is under contract through 2022 and Green through 2020. Durant done with his tinkering around the edges, but still will rely on players in and Thompson will be unrestricted free agents and, therefore, on the their thirties staying on the field. Buster Posey turns 32 in March and market. Thompson has expressed his desire to return, while Durant has there is nothing Zaidi can do that would be more impactful than Posey been non-commital. returning to form after hip surgery. The Giants could use quality innings from 33-year-old Jeff Samardzija and bounce back years from Brandon It can be done, but the costs will be exorbitant. Durant could command a Crawford, 31, and Brandon Belt, 30. They need more from 33-year-old long-term deal in excess of $200 million, and Thompson would be only Evan Longoria, and 28-year-old Joe Panik, who should be in his prime. slightly cheaper. The Warriors would have to immediately start digging into the revenue generated by Chase Center. Giants officials like to provide reminders that the team wasn’t too far out of the race into August, when the injuries became insurmountable. They -- Monte Poole believe that if they can be healthier in 2019, they can compete. But as Kings: Set a new foundation by making the playoffs this season millions find out every year, it’s often quite hard to stay healthy in the new year. Sacramento’s players have set the lofty goal of making the playoffs and snapping the franchise’s 12-year postseason drought, but very few of -- Alex Pavlovic them have ever experienced what it’s like to play meaningful games in A’s: Build a rotation that will return Oakland to the playoffs March and April when every win and losses tips the scales. As the calendar turns from 2018 to 2019, the A's should have one main Playoffs would be a dream scenario, but sometimes setting smaller goals New Year's resolution: put together a playoff-caliber starting rotation. It along the way can pay huge dividends. The Kings haven’t finished a seems like a simple idea, but it won't be easy to accomplish. season above .500 since the 2005-06 campaign. In fact, this is the first time the team has made it to Jan. 1 above .500 since the 2004-05 Oakland's payroll is already close to $90 million, more than last season's season. starting and ending totals. As it currently stands, the A's rotation will likely include Mike Fiers, Daniel Mengden, Frankie Montas, Paul Blackburn, The Kings’ 2019 New Years resolution should be to fight like hell to make and Chris Bassitt, with top prospect Jesús Luzardo possibly getting a the playoffs, but if that fails, they should attempt to finish the season with shot out of Spring Training. That's a mostly unproven group and Oakland a .500 or better record. would be wise to add two more quality starters. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. There might come a point when teams Unfortunately, quality starters have not been going for cheap this around them get hot and they slide in the standings. As long as they offseason. The Angels gave Trevor Cahill $9 million and Matt Harvey $11 have additional goals to focus on beyond just making the playoffs, they'll million. Nathan Eovaldi and J.A. Happ each got $17 million a year. The have a chance at a highly successful season that mixes both player A's may not have any room in their payroll for another quality starter, let development and building a winning culture. alone two. But they still have to try. -- James Ham -- Ben Ross 49ers: Make the whole team better by adding game-changing pass Sharks: Improve the defense and limit the number of goals allowed rushers There’s no denying the Sharks are giving up more goals so far this The 49ers resolve to add two upgrades at edge rusher after not even season than they have in season’s past. San Jose has prided itself on bothering with the thin group that was available a year ago. being a defensively sound club during Peter DeBoer’s tenure, typically The 49ers have the No. 2 overall draft pick. Free agency begins more giving up one or two goals a game. Through the start of the 2018-19 than a month before the draft. The 49ers will have the opportunity to sign campaign, however, it has become common for them to give up three or a pass-rusher, such as Ziggy Ansah or Dante Fowler, then add another more. edge rusher at the top of the draft, such as Nick Bosa or Josh Allen. While the defense has tightened up and the goaltending has improved, DeForest Buckner led the 49ers with 12 sacks as an inside rusher. But limiting the number of goals-against isn’t entirely in the Sharks’ power. As the 49ers did not generate much of a pass rush other than him. The Sam McCaig of The Hockey News points out, scoring across the league addition of an edge rusher would have a positive influence on every level is up to 6.2 goals per game, the highest it has been in a couple decades. of the team’s defense, especially in pass coverage, and would likely lead Whether that has more to do with the talent in the league being better or to a top-10 defense. the change in the goalie pads having that drastic of an impact, it’ll be hard to stop the rate at which opposing players are scoring. -- Matt Maiocco Nevertheless, the Sharks must keep striving to have a strong defensive Raiders: Make fans forget about unpopular trades game night after night in an effort to keep the number of goals-against. Can they put the Khalil Mack trade in the past? -- Chelena Goldman The Khalil Mack trade defined entire 2018 Raiders season. Head coach Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 Jon Gruden’s return to the Raiders took a sharp turn downhill after trading the All-Pro edge rusher to Chicago for a compensation package 1123925 San Jose Sharks

Sharks ticked over Sam Bennett's 'predatory' hit that hurt Radim Simek

By Chelena Goldman December 31, 2018

It wasn’t surprising that the Sharks' New Year's Eve meeting with the Calgary Flames turned chippy toward the end. The hosts had scored eight goals, and given that it was a battle for first place in the Pacific Division, emotions were particularly fragile. But anger really boiled over on Team Teal’s bench in the final minute when one of their players ended up on the wrong side of a late hit. With time winding down and the Flames about to skate away with an 8-5 win at the Saddledome, Calgary center Sam Bennett went out of his way to lay a high hit on San Jose defenseman Radim Simek, who had just passed the puck to a teammate. That's when Bennett charged at Simek and clocked him right in the head. Sharks winger Barclay Goodrow immediately went for Bennett, and the two exchanged punches while Simek remained down on the ice. Needless to say, the Sharks weren't happy about the hit. When coach Peter DeBoer was asked for his thoughts on it after the game, his answer was short and clipped. "Predatory," he said. "That’s it." Bennett's actions certainly stood out, even though the hit came in the final minute of play and there had been a fair amount of physicality throughout the game. "The game's changed a lot from when I came in 10 years ago," said Sharks winger Evander Kane, who was tied for the team lead with three hits. "There won't be as much talk, there will be a little more action." Kane, who adds plenty of grit to the Sharks’ lineup, was booted from the contest just 16 seconds earlier after his altercation with Mathew Tkachuk drew 10-minute misconduct penalties for both players, plus Calgary's Rasmus Andersson. That didn’t stop Kane from having an opinion about the Bennett hit, though. "I saw the replay," he said. "Boy, it's funny. Like I said, there's a lot of talk. Then I leave the game, and guys get a little taller out there." After the hit, TV cameras panned to the Sharks' bench, where players and coaches were visibly disgusted -- and rightfully so. Bennett’s hit is a picture-perfect example of what the NHL wants to eliminate from the game. While Bennett received a match penalty -- as did Goodrow for leaping to his teammate's defense -- the league certainly will take another look at the hit for possible punishment. The Sharks didn’t have an update on Simek's condition immediately after the game, but they're sure to remember Bennett's hit when the teams meet again Feb. 7 in Calgary. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123926 St Louis Blues In San Antonio, Blues prospect Sammy Blais has a six-game points streak (two goals, five assists).

Blues prospect Klim Kostin has three assists in four games for Blues put Butler, Nolan on waivers Russia so far in the World Juniors tournament. Kostin is the team captain for Russia, which plays Slovakia in the quarterfinals Wednesday. Jim Thomas St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.02.2019

The Blues moved into the New Year with roster moves, placing defenseman Chris Butler and forward Jordan Nolan on waivers Tuesday. Butler had been a healthy scratch for the Blues the past two games, coinciding with the return of Alex Pietrangelo from injured reserve with a hand injury. Nolan was a healthy scratch Monday against the New York Rangers, as Robby Fabbri returned to the lineup following a shoulder injury that shelved him for most of December. The roster currently sits at 21 players, or two under the limit. But defenseman Carl Gunnarasson appears set to return after being sidelined since mid November with a hand injury. Additionally, waiving Nolan leaves the Blues with no spare forwards, so either Jordan Kyrou or Zach Sanford could be brought up from San Antonio of the American Hockey League sometime in the near future. Kyrou currently has an 11-game point streak for the Rampage, just one shy of the franchise record. Sanford was sent down by the Blues last Friday and scored a goal Sunday in his first game back with San Antonio. Veterans Butler, 32, and Nolan, 29, were recalled from San Antonio on Dec. 3, or shortly after the injuries to Fabbri and Pietrangelo. They are expected to return to the Rampage if they clear waivers Wednesday. Both Butler and Nolan did everything asked of them during their stints with the Blues. Including a two-game stint at the start of the season when the Blues were missing Gunnarsson and Joel Edmundson to injury, Butler has played 12 games total with one goal and one assist. He averaged 14 minutes 14 seconds of ice time in those games and was plus-4. Nolan, signed by the Blues as a free agent July 5, appeared in 11 games with no goals and two assists. Providing a physical presence on the fourth line, he averaged only 7:38 of ice time and was even in plus- minus. ALL-STAR REACTION Count defenseman Vince Dunn among Blues players excited to see the NHL All-Star Game coming to St. Louis in 2020 at Enterprise Center. “Obviously it brings attention to the city,” Dunn said. “I think with the renovations and everything (at Enterprise), it’s definitely a nicer place to play at now.” In his second season with the Blues, Dunn has come to appreciate St. Louis as a sports town. “You don’t really know that if you’re not from here,” Dunn said. “But once you’re here, you kinda realize that the fans are pretty appreciative of all the teams that are playing here. As for the All-Star Game itself, he added, “It’s the fans who vote everyone in, so it’s kinda cool to see if you voted for that player and he ends up making it. It’s kinda cool to be able to come watch it if you’re from this area.” ONE AT A TIME With the Blues officially awarded the 2020 NHL All-Star Game, Blues president and CEO of business operations Chris Zimmerman said the team is very interested in playing host to another Winter Classic or one of the league’s stadium series games. “The league is only going to talk to us about one of their premier games at a time,” Zimmerman said. BLUENOTES With an assist Monday on Ryan O’Reilly’s goal against the New York Rangers, David Perron has nine points (five goals, four assists) in his last nine games. The line of Jaden Schwartz-Brayden Schenn-Vladimir Tarasenko combined for 28 attempts — with 19 shots on goal, five shots blocked, and four missed shots against the Rangers. The entire Rangers team had just 34 attempts in the contest. 1123927 St Louis Blues Approximately $95 million of renovation work at Enterprise occurred over the past two summers. A third phase, which includes new seats for the lower bowl of the arena, takes place next summer. The Blues continue to NHL makes it official: All-Stars will converge on St. Louis in 2020 seek state funding to help pay for the project, which over the final phase will include infrastructure work and public safety improvements for the 24-year-old building such as new elevators and escalators and a new roof. Jim Thomas Zimmerman said the facility has provided $150 million in tax revenue for the state over the years. One of the NHL’s marquee events, the 2020 All-Star Weekend, has been “We compete with new buildings,” Zimmerman said, citing NHL venues in awarded to St. Louis. And it wouldn’t have been possible without the Las Vegas, Detroit and Edmonton. “Those are three brand-new buildings. ongoing $150 million renovation process at Enterprise Center, according I assure you that every one of those markets is bidding and asking the to a Blues executive. NHL to get these types of events.” “No. Not even close,” said Chris Zimmerman, the team’s president and Ticket information for 2020 All-Star weekend events will be made CEO of business operations. “Had we not begun this path and gotten the available around the end of this month, shortly after this year’s All-Star support of the city, which enabled us particularly to do the work over the weekend in San Jose, with season-ticket holders given first priority. last two summers — you and I wouldn’t be sitting here having this discussion. Zimmerman said the plan is to “connect” the All-Star Game to the St. Louis community throughout the coming year. “And now, whether it’s the all-star weekend, the Olympic trials for gymnastics, U.S. figure skating championships — all of those events that “The weekend will be great and that will be the premier element, but we we were being left on the sideline for — we can get back in the game do (see) opportunities to tie into Mardi Gras events, we see opportunities now.” obviously to connect with youth hockey,” he said. Zimmerman said other targets for Enterprise Center in the near future will The St. Louis Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, which will be NCAA hockey’s Frozen Four and the World Juniors, the huge serve as the Blues’ new practice facility but also be a nerve center for international hockey tournament currently taking place in Vancouver. college and youth hockey games and tournaments, is scheduled to open Sept. 1. “I think all of this has been an effort to really capture what St. Louis is,” Zimmerman said. “It’s a great sports city that turns out for these big “We see this year as really a celebration of the game and obviously the events. And we needed to get the facility to a point where we were back greats of the game,” Zimmerman said. “But more than that, a celebration in competition. And we’re there now.” of our whole community and everything certainly that we do around youth hockey.” But first, the world’s greatest hockey players will assemble in downtown St. Louis for the NHL All-Star weekend in less than 13 months at St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.02.2019 Enterprise. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman made the official announcement on New Year’s Day during the second intermission of the nationally- televised Winter Classic game between the Boston Bruins and the Chicago Blackhawks. “St. Louis was a great host for us for the Winter Classic we recently had there, and in the final analysis — the total circumstances — including the substantial renovation that they’ve done of Enterprise Center made it the right time to go back,” Bettman said. “We have no doubt it will be a huge success.” During a visit to St. Louis at the start of this season, Bettman all but guaranteed that the city would get an All-Star game in the near future but said it wouldn’t happen in 2020. The Blues, who put in a bid to host either the 2020 or 2021 game in September 2017, kept lobbying for 2020. And here it is. The All-Star weekend, whose signature events include the game as well as the popular skills contest, takes place Jan. 24-26, 2020. It has been nearly one-third of a century since the last NHL All-Star Game was held here — in 1988. That game, as well as the other previous NHL All-Star contest held in St. Louis, in 1970, both took place at the old St. Louis Arena. “This is a great day for not only Blues fans, but for the city of St. Louis,” Blues chairman Tom Stillman said in a statement. “Our city, our great fans and our corporate partners have shown tremendous loyalty to the Blues since the team’s inception in 1967, and landing a major event such as the NHL All-Star Game is a testament to their relentless passion and support.” It will be the second big NHL event held in St. Louis in three years, with the Blues taking on the Blackhawks in the Winter Classic on Jan. 2, 2017 at Busch Stadium. Zimmerman said the All-Star weekend will have an estimated $20 million economic impact for the region. Just in terms of NHL staff, players and media, Zimmerman said an estimated 5,000 room nights will be used in area hotels for the event. “It’s incredibly satisfying for our team to have worked so hard to position ourselves,” Zimmerman said. “First, to put on a great Winter Classic, gain the league’s trust, show them what our city can do. What our hospitality industry can do. “And to be rewarded two of the league’s flagship games within (three years), I think that’s something we should all take a lot of pride in. It’s a big deal.” 1123928 St Louis Blues The Cardinals are in the second tier in terms of both revenue and payroll. A Forbes study placed the Cardinals seventh in value in 2018 and right now Baseball Prospectus is projecting their 2019 payroll at ninth, a hair It's official: NHL All-Star Game coming to St. Louis in 2020 behind No. 8 Houston. The Cardinals can certainly afford to take their spending up a notch, but again, this franchise is not on the same revenue planet as those bigger markets. Jim Thomas WHY GIVE OZUNA AN EXTENSION? +26 Little more than 12 months from now, the world's greatest hockey players Cardinals open final homestand against Brewers will gather in downtown St. Louis for the NHL all-star weekend at Enterprise Center. Robert Cohen NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman made the official announcement on QUESTION: Why try to extend Marcell Ozuna, considering his lack of New Year's Day, during the second intermission of the nationally- preparation for last season? televised Winter Classic game between the Boston Bruins and the GORDO: Prices only go up for players. Ozuna at his '18 level has real Chicago Blackhawks. value. And if he ever got back to the '17 level, he could really cash in on "St. Louis was a great host for us for the Winter Classic we recently had the market. So any attempt to extend him this winter would be an attempt there, and in the final analysis _ the total circumstances, including the to get him at a value price -- while offering him security as an incentive. substantial renovation that they've done of Enterprise Center made it the There is risk in that -- especially, as you note, because Ozuna did not get right time to go back," Bettman said. "We have no doubt it will be a huge his shoulder ready for last season. success." CARDS DONE WITH AGGRESSIVE MOVES? The all-star weekend, including signature events such as the skills 2017: St. Louis Cardinals season wrap press conference contest and the game itself, will take place Jan. 24-26, 2020. Chris Lee “This is a great day for not only Blues fans, but for the city of St. Louis,” Blues chairman Tom Stillman said in a statement released by the team. QUESTION: Will the Cards front office be aggressive until the end of “Our city, our great fans and our corporate partners have shown spring training? Comments about making a "value buy" sound like all tremendous loyalty to the Blues since the team’s inception in 1967 and they're looking for is a second-tier ("cheap”) pickup. landing a major event such as the NHL All-Star Game is a testament to their relentless passion and support.” GORDO: I believe the Cardinals have already made their most aggressive moves. Now management can sit back and see how the It's the second marquee NHL event held in St. Louis in three years, with market plays out. At this point, the team has a set starting lineup, a the Blues taking on the Blackhawks in the Winter Classic on Jan. 2, starting rotation overflowing with candidates and many bullpen options. 2017, at Busch Stadium. The remaining needs don't really call for aggressive action. Blues president and CEO of business operations Chris Zimmerman said ROOM FOR ONE MORE IN THE BULLPEN? the all-star weekend will have an estimated $20 million economic impact for the St. Louis region. Just in terms of NHL staff, players, and media, St. Louis Cardinals v Zimmerman said an estimated 5,000 room nights will be used during the COMMENT: We still need bullpen help. Not all the extra starters need to event. be there -- some need to stay stretched out in the minors. One thing we "It's incredibly satisfying for our team to have worked so hard to position can always count on is someone will be hurt. ourselves," Zimmerman said. "First, to put on a great Winter Classic, gain GORDO: I agree that one more proven reliever could make a big the league's trust. Show them what our city can do, what our hospitality difference. Injuries are inevitable and there are always breakdowns in industry can do. performance. Relievers are an especially volatile bunch. At this point the "And to be rewarded two of the league's flagship games within (three Cardinals are probably waiting for the market to play out so they see if years), I think that's something we should all take a lot of pride in. It's a they can make a value signing. But playing it too cute could cost them a big deal." shot at postseason play. There is absolutely no excuse for the Cardinals to have anything less than a shutdown bullpen next season. Zimmerman said St. Louis would not have been in the running for the all- star game without the $150 million renovation project underway at WAS PHAM'S MOUTH THE ISSUE? Enterprise Center. Approximately $95 million of work has taken place +47 over the past two summers. A third phase, which includes new seats for the lower bowl of the arena, will take place next summer. Cardinals spring training Ticket information for 2020 all-star weekend events will be made QUESTION: After seeing Tommy Pham's comments about Tampa, do available at the end of this month, with season-ticket holders being given you think part of the reason the Cards moved on from him is his first priority. penchant for being a lightning rod with controversial statements? St. Louis previously hosted the NHL all-star game in 1970 and 1988 at GORDO: I believe his chronic eye problems and lengthy history of the old St. Louis Arena. orthopedic injuries played a bigger role, along with his advancing age and declining '18 production. While this Cardinals ownership group has CARDINALS 'HAVE' BUT SPEND LIKE 'HAVE-NOTS'? never been thrilled with players popping off, it can tolerate a durable, Cards talk about need for change at press conference consistent, All-Star-caliber player making a bit of noise. QUESTION: Enjoyed your article dividing into DOES RECENT SUCCESS MAKE 'PETRO' MORE EXPENDABLE? have and have-not teams. A third category is needed: have-but-won't-use St. Louis Blues v San Jose Sharks teams, teams with plenty of money who won't put that money back into the product, but use it to line the owners' pockets. All teams make a QUESTION: With the recent success of the team in his absence, do you profit, so we're talking about teams that cross the line — teams whose think it makes Alex Pietrangelo more expendable in trade? ALSO: Are fans provide a revenue stream like the haves but spend like the have- you impressed with Robert Thomas' recent play? Do you think Sundqvist nots, staying away from the deep end of the free agent pool. Which could become a consistent 20-goal scorer? Are there any Blues draftees teams are in this third category? in the World Juniors that could make it on the Blues roster next season? GORDO: There isn't much in the middle any more. The Phillies probably GORDO: Alex Pietrangelo is an elite all-around defenseman, better than qualified for that third category last season, but clearly that team is any other Blues defenseman. Just because the team managed to win a determined to spend this winter. The Mets were threatening to fall back few games lately doesn't make him expendable. If another team wants to into that third category, but now their aggressive GM is changing that. make a premium offer, I'm sure GM Doug Armstrong will listen but, again, Revenues vary dramatically, as do payrolls. The top revenue teams — top-end defensemen have extreme value in the league. Dodgers, Yankees, Red Sox and Cubs — are in their own universe as far as revenues go. Those are the teams flirting with luxury tax issues. Thomas? This is the guy the Blues expected to make an impact this season. He will be a Top 6 forward for a long, long time. Sundqvist looks like a nice fourth-liner, capable of scoring in double figures, but 20 goals seems like a push. The only Blue at the WJC is winger Klim Kostin, who Some guys have a history of breaking down. Many things factor into that remains nowhere near NHL-ready. equation. TIME TO MOVE GYORKO? Follow-up: The FO has a way of hyping prospects, buying into the hype they have created and then reacting too late when they realize that it was +40 all just hype. Any concern that these pitching prospects, outside of St. Louis Cardinals vs Flaherty, are more back-of-the-rotation guys than they are potential stars? Flipping a couple for 3 years of Kluber control would be QUESTION: Will Jedd Gyorko, Yairo Munoz and Drew Robinson all comforting. make the Cardinals roster out of spring training? GORDO: The Cardinals don't hype prospects. They do hang onto the GORDO: I can't imagine how. Munoz and Robinson have awesome better guys because they are cost controlled. Having lots of young flexibility, but Robinson is still an unknown offensive commodity at this pitching is a very efficient way to build uncommon depth, which the level. As for Gyorko, presumably another team will have more work for Cardinals have done. They have traded several of their top pitching him. prospects over the years and would do so again. But trading several good pitchers who work for free for one expensive pitcher who could get Follow-up: Cards should trade Gyorko for a good reliever and sign hurt is a play the team won't make regularly. The Cardinals ranked near Marwin Gonzalez. Your colleague Derrick Goold says Gonzalez wants the top of MLB with starting pitching ERA last season despite taking more playing time, but I bet he could get 450 at-bats filling in around the massive injury hits, so they will be reluctant to change course there. diamond. ARE THE BLUES' WORST DAYS BEHIND THEM? GORDO: I do not see 450 at bats for an extra player on this team. At this time, the Cardinals appear to have a set starting lineup. Players in the +6 marketplace look at that and don't see opportunity. The same issue for the Cardinals limited the team's choices for a back-up , which is Thomas, Allen lead Blues to a 4-1 victory over Sabres why Pena is back. (Editor's note: This Q-&-A exchange took place before Saturday's HANG ON TO JOSE clunker against the Penguins.) +26 COMMENT: Making trades is not the answer. The Blues are talented and can win -- a little slow, but again, they can win with this group. This team Cardinals open final homestand against Brewers with Jaden Schwartz healthy is well above .500 and will continue to get back in contention. Just keep winning 2 of 3 and it will get close. QUESTION: Martinez is a defensive liability but Fowler doesn't exactly make us forget Larry Walker in RF. So why are the Cards in such a hurry GORDO: If the Blues are playing so well that they don't have a lineup to trade Jose? He makes practically nothing and if nothing else is a huge spot for Robby Fabbri and they are telling Alex Pietrangelo to take a few bat off the bench. Can't they just keep him at least until closer to the extra days, that is a pretty good sign that the worst is behind this team. trade deadline? But, again, can they win 10 out of 12 (or something similar) to muscle back into the mix? GORDO: I don't know that they are in a big hurry to trade Martinez. The fact he is still on the roster suggests the Cardinals want value in return. Follow-up: The Blues have games in hand. Isn’t it possible with their play Perhaps the smart play is to keep him to make sure that Fowler and of late to get back in the playoff picture? Ozuna are good to go next year and that O'Neill is still on track. GORDO: Minnesota is slipping. Out West, Edmonton is due for some Follow-up: The smart play is to trade Gyorko (very replaceable), sign more suffering. Dallas is just so-so. Colorado is a one-line team that David Robertson for relief, and keep J. Martinez as the primary pinch- allows too many goals. So, yes, the Blues could get back into the race by hitter. stacking up a bunch of victories. The talent is there to accomplish that, too. GORDO: I can't disagree with that. Martinez is an excellent part-time hitter and those are hard to find. Unless the team gets value for him in a WHY WOULD WE EXPECT FOWLER TO BE BETTER? trade, what's the point of moving him? +1 NO ACE = NO CHAMPIONSHIP? St. Louis Cardinals v +16 Dexter Fowler strikes out to end a game against the Brewers in April. Carlos Martinez in the dugout with long dark hair (Chris Lee photo / Post-Dispatch) QUESTION: Will the ace of the Cardinals staff please stand up? There's QUESTION: Cardinals fans would all love for Dexter Fowler to be the ever-enigmatic Carlos Martinez, Jack Flaherty (who lost his last five magically better this year. Still, the adage about doing the same thing games in September), the oft-injured Wacha, the overachieving Mikolas over and over and expecting different results seems to apply here. What (who the regression gods will come after with a vengeance), and Alex are the Cardinals/Fowler doing differently that could result in him Reyes (who hasn’t pitched in three years). Does the rotation have a true reverting to prior form? ace that can carry a team to a championship? GORDO: One mandatory change: Fowler actually must hit this season. GORDO: Quality pitching depth wins championships. Ask Max Scherzer His objective is to get locked in at the plate and perform at his 2017 level. and Clayton Kershaw if they have any good parade memories to share. If he doesn't, then his leash might become shorter even than what Matheny afforded him. Playing a .180 hitter every day in right field is If the Cardinals have a strong five-man rotation and a lockdown bullpen, crazy. It's not fair to the other 24 players in the roster. they could win again. TYLER O'NEILL AN EVERYDAY MAJOR LEAGUER? ATTRITION IN THE CARDINALS' ROTATION Cardinals face Brewers in final game of last homestand Alcantara dazzles on the mound, Marlins top Phillies 2-1 Robert Cohen QUESTION: Seems like over the last couple decades that every starting pitcher the Cardinals draft and bring to the big leagues (except Dan QUESTION: Do you think Tyler O'Neill has earned and deserves a Haren) should be or has been traded, after they had a couple of years chance to play every day in St. Louis? here and when they still had value. The Cards now have 10-11 pitchers on the team who could be starters. How many will be on team 3-4 years GORDO: No and no. He certainly can handle the everyday load as a from now? fielder, but let's see how he holds up against big league pitchers as he gains more exposure at this level. He can hit mistake pitches nine miles, GORDO: The attrition and regression rates on pitchers is high. Mindful of but can he consistently hold up against good pitching? His sample size is that, the Cardinals have traded many young pitchers over the years to fill too small to prove it either way. clear needs with proven talent. That said, the team can't trade every pitcher early in their development while fearing they will lose value. The TAPPING THE BRAKES ON THE HOT CORNER HOTSHOTS key is to hang on to the ones who appear to have staying power and +1 hope for the best. Nolan Gorman Some guys have a better mental makeup and more ability to adapt. Some have a less stressful delivery than others, suggesting durability. Nolan Gorman, the Cardinals' first-round pick in the MLB draft, prepares QUESTION: Hockey types talk about "chemistry" and how you can't get it to take batting practice at Busch Stadium on June 11. (Derrick Goold unless you play together. Did Yeo's constant line tinkering mess that up? photo / Post-Dispatch) Berube tries to keep the same lines together for the most part and the results are that they are beginning to win more than lose. COMMENT: All the talk of the Cardinals' coveted third-base prospects, Nolan Gorman and Elehuris Montero, is so premature. They could be GORDO: Craig Berube was juggling earlier in his tenure. Now that the strikeouts waiting to happen. We should not be counting them as major team is playing better, he is sticking with some combos and that is finally leaguers until they prove themselves beyond Class A. building chemistry. Most coaches juggle lines unless they manage to assemble a super grou,p like the MacKinnon line in Colorado or the GORDO: The Cardinals are not 100 percent counting on them. The Bergeron line in Boston. But the Blues do like continuity. And it's tough to franchise has not ruled out adding a long-term third baseman. That said, earn continuity without winning and it's hard to win without continuity. this year will be critical for both Gorman and Montero. With Carpenter Coaches wrestle with this daily. and Goldschmidt manning the corners at the big league level, those two prospects will start defining their long-term potential. How they fare in St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.02.2019 2019 could impact what the franchise does after next season. FEELING BETTER ABOUT ALLEN IN GOAL? +11 Blues vs. Avalanche QUESTION: Are you encouraged by Jake Allen's play lately? Encouraged enough to think he might have a future here beyond this year? GORDO: He has contract term left, so his showing has been encouraging for the team. But his uneven career history suggests the Blues must explore all goaltending options going forward. The only way that changes is if Allen carries the team into the postseason bracket and on a deep playoff run. To a follow-up question about whether the Blues were "stuck with Allen for better or worse," Gordo replied: The Blues need Allen to play well because there is no help in the marketplace right now. Goaltending is an issue for about half the teams in the league. Allen would offer some teams an upgrade, but then who tends goal for the Blues? Come this summer, perhaps Sergei Bobrovsky could be an option in free agency. MIZZOU GAMES IN ST. LOUIS? Mizzou takes Braggin' Rights Robert Cohen QUESTION: Braggin' Rights basketball in St. Louis was awesome. Is there any momentum to have the Tigers play a neutral site game in St. Louis? Or for any neutral site football in St. Louis? GORDO: I could see Mizzou playing neutral site football games in St. Louis (Busch Stadium) or Kansas City moving forward, given the school's disappointing attendance in Columbia. The same goes for basketball in the STL, given all the local talent Cuonzo Martin is rounding up. Wouldn't it be fun to see, say, Mizzou-Purdue at Enterprise Center? Follow-up: Mizzou should play SLU every year in hoops. The position they take only hurts fans. These coaches preach competition, but then shy away from it in cases like this. As a Mizzou fan, I say PLAY THE GAME. GORDO: I agree. That annual game would be a win-win. Both schools are recruiting St. Louis hard, but both should be secure in their ability to attract talent. An annual game at Enterprise Center could make some nice coin and reward players on both teams from this area. NFL'S ABSENCE THE REASON FOR MLS' PRESENCE? Another push to bring soccer to St. Louis J.B. Forbes QUESTION: Is it fair to say MLS would not have come to St. Louis had the NFL not left? Regardless of St. Louis' soccer passion? GORDO: The MLS is in several NFL cities. The market for that sport is different than either football and baseball. As long as St. Louis had a ready owner and a workable stadium plan, it was going to be in the mix. The NFL exit did reduce competition for corporate support and the general entertainment dollar, but I don't see the MLS and NFL as an either/or thing. BLUES' CHEMISTRY LESSON +23 Blues take on the Oilers at Enterprise Center J.B. Forbes 1123929 Tampa Bay Lightning

Lightning’s Erik Cernak is ‘too good for us to send back’ The rookie defenseman shows his increasing comfort in the NHL as he gets involved in the attack.

By Diana Nearhos

ANAHEIM — It was very typical Nikita Kucherov: a goal scored on the rush, a one-timer from the right circle. The atypical part was the assist. It was defenseman Erik Cernak with Kucherov on the rush, who made a beautiful backhand pass. Yes, Cernak. The rookie defenseman has been getting more involved on the attack recently. Add it to the list of things he's doing well for the Lightning. "It was a great pass," Kucherov said. "I'm just happy for him. He's been good for us and every game he's progressing. He's making plays and has a good shot. When the d-men make plays like that, it makes me happy. When they do things like this, we score goals." On Kucherov's goal in the 2-1 overtime win over Anaheim, Cernak and he had a mini 2-on-1 opportunity. Cernak streaked through the slot, toward the goal. He might have had a chance for his first NHL goal, but passed it over. He saw Kucherov and figured he would be the safer bet. Cernak's backhand was one of two smooth passes on the play. Brayden Point came into the zone and pulled up, to draw the defenseman; then sent the puck around a Duck to Cernak. The three Lightning players all came in with different speeds and they weren't lined up, making accurate passes harder. Cernak's was right on Kucherov's tape and the winger made the goal look easy. Kucherov praised Cernak's skating, saying his speed made the play. He also pointed to the goal J.T. Miller scored against Edmonton before Christmas. Cernak got in on the attack to set that one up to. In that case, it was a matter of cycling. Alex Killorn brought the puck up high and handed it off to Cernak. He then carried it all the way to the bottom of the circle, then sent a centering pass to Miller. It was another well-placed, accurate pass. "You have to build a base," Cernak said. "You can't jump every time. You have to learn the right time." Cernak was called up almost two months ago, told to pack for a week. Plays like these are part of why he's still here and has played 21 games. Coach Jon Cooper sees plays like that are evidence of Cernak getting more and more comfortable in the NHL He's the reason, after all, that the Lightning is currently rotating defensemen. When Anton Stralman got healthy, Cernak's play demanded that he stay on the team. General manager Julien BriseBois acknowledged that the easy thing to do would be to send Cernak back to the AHL — he's the only defenseman who doesn't have to clear waivers and could go right back to playing big minutes for Syracuse. But BriseBois doesn't think that's the best thing for the team. "He's too good for us to send back," BriseBois said. "He makes us better, he balances our right side and our left side." That doesn't necessarily mean Cernak is here for good. He's still staying in a hotel and most of his belongings are still in Syracuse. Rotating defensemen isn't a permanent solution and once the Lightning is fully healthy (Miller is currently on the IR), it won't have enough roster spots. But that's a problem for another day. For now, Cernak continues to earn his spot on the team and in the lineup Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123930 Tampa Bay Lightning

Lightning-Ducks: Rewinding the Lightning’s low-scoring win

By Diana Nearhos

ANAHEIM — One goal. The Lightning only allowed one goal, after giving up four or more in three of the previous five games. It was the thing both coach Jon Cooper and general manager Julien BriseBois said the team needed to do. And Tampa Bay did it. "If we're going to want to play in the spring, and go deep in the spring, you have to be able to keep the puck out of your net," Cooper said after the 2-1 overtime win over Anaheim. "It was a big point for us coming into this game and this trip. We have to do that. Coming out of the break, call it some pretty loose hockey. It was probably fun for the fans, but we need to get this going so we can go deep in the spring." Goaltender Andre Vasilevskiy looked sharp with his 35 saves and his 100th career win. He made some impressive ones, though didn't need the acrobatic feats he's been showing off lately. It was more than just Vasilevskiy, though. This wasn't the Toronto game, where the Lightning needed the goalie to save the win. Tampa Bay played good defense and Vasilevskiy was good in goal. Sounds like a winning recipe. Some odds and ends from the overtime win: The point streak continues. As soon as regulation ended, the point streak was maintained. The Lightning now has points in its past 15 games, three games shy of a franchise record. December to remember. The Lightning finished December without a regulation loss, at 13-0-1. This is the second team in franchise history to finish a month without a regulation loss (Oct. 2003 being the other) and is the eighth NHL team to do so in the last 10 years. Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos are very good. No, this isn't news, but there's new evidence. Kucherov and Stamkos combined for 51 points in December. They are the first set of teammates to combine for 50 or more points since four pairs did so in March 2001. Jaromir Jagr and Mario Lemiux had 59 that month. Kucherov extends his point streak. Kucherov now has a point in his last 11 games, matching a career high, and has a point in 21 of his last 22 games. He has seven goals and 16 assists on the current streak. The winger also has a five-game points streak going, and leads the league in scoring. Vasilevskiy is also quite good. As noted above, Vasilevskiy earned his 100th career win on Monday. At 175 games played, he did so quicker than any other goalie in franchise history. Only three active goalies have done it faster: Toronto's Frederik Anderson (171 games), Detroit's Jimmy Howard (171) and Montreal's Antti Niemi (174). Success on the road. The Lightning has won four consecutive games on the road and has points in eight straight road games (7-0-1). Mikhail Sergachev's turn to sit. The defenseman rotation continues. This time, Sergachev sat out. Since Anton Stralman returned from his injury (and the Lightning ended up with eight healthy defensemen), he, Hedman and McDonagh are the only defensemen who have not sat out. Braydon Coburn, Erik Cernak and Sergachev have each sat twice, and Dan Girardi once. Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123931 Tampa Bay Lightning

Lightning beat Anaheim in overtime Brayden Point scores 35 seconds into overtime on New Year’s Eve.

By Diana Nearhos

ANAHEIM—The Lightning and Ducks needed just a little extra in 2018, going into overtime on New Year's Eve. Once they got into the extra period, though, Brayden Point ended things quickly. Just 35 seconds into overtime, he crashed the net and went backhand to beat goalie John Gibson. Both goaltenders cracked down in the third period. Not that it had been a high-scoring game, but both teams had good chances in the third and both had a hard time scoring. Lightning goalie Andre Vasilevskiy, in particular, made some very Vasilevskiy saves in the third. Maybe they weren't as acrobatic as some of his others recently, but they were impressive nonetheless. He made 36 saves in the game and 13 in the period. Nikita Kucherov started it off with one of those goals when he makes hockey look easy. He, Brayden Point and Erik Cernak crashed the net on the rush (yes, Cernak). Point started with the puck on the left wing, passed to Cernak in the slot. Cernak sent it over to Kucherov on the right wing. Kucherov's one-timer was so smooth it looked more like he was dumping the puck than placing a shot. But place a shot he did, and the Lightning took a 1-0 lead at 6:06 of the first. Nick Ritchie tied the game up late in the period. He slid in behind Victor Hedman to a wide open back door. Ondrej Kase sent him the puck and Ritchie had an easy shot. There wasn't another goal until Point's in overtime. Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123932 Tampa Bay Lightning SOME BEAUTY PASSING AND KUCH CRANKS THAT POINT STREAK UP TO 11! #TBLVSANA | #GOBOLTS

PIC.TWITTER.COM/BJWPZS6T7I How many All-Stars will the Lightning have? Only Kucherov seems like a — TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING (@TBLIGHTNING) JANUARY 1, 2019 lock. There’s no doubt Kucherov will be named to his fourth All-Star team.

He’s on pace to shatter the franchise record for points in a season. By Joe Smith Jan 1, 2019 Hedman called him the “best player in the league.”

Kucherov said he’d love to get another chance at playing in the midseason 3-on-3 classic. ANAHEIM, Calif. — Brayden Point went into beast mode. “I like it,” Kucherov said. “I’ve been there three times. I enjoy it. You meet The Lightning center picked up speed near the Ducks blueline on the great players and some new faces. You get to know them, as well as opening shift of Monday’s overtime. Victor Hedman had passed it to players who used to be in the league. It’s a nice two days, a good Nikita Kucherov, who flipped it to Point. experience for myself, or whoever is there. If you’re there, it means something you’re doing is right, people like the way you play.” The rest, well, as coach Jon Cooper called it, was “a remarkable play.” So you have Matthews and Kucherov as two of the six forwards. Sabres Point corralled a bouncing puck and drove to the net with Ducks captain Jack Eichel (15 goals, 49 points) is expected to be Buffalo’s defenseman Brandon Montour all over him. Point held off Montour with representative, and teammate Jeff Skinner has his own case with a his right arm, then transitioned to a backhand that beat goalie John division-best 26 goals (second to only Alex Ovechkin in the NHL). David Gibson, who was otherwise spectacular. It was a 2-1 overtime win, Pastrnak (23 goals) is the Bruins’ expected representative. The Panthers’ wrapping up the Lightning’s 13-0-1 December. best player, and one of the best players in the league that nobody talks Happy New Year. about enough, is captain Sasha Barkov, a center.

“It was an unbelievable play,” Hedman said. “And I had a front-row seat.” So that means five of six forwards would be taken: Matthews (Maple Leafs), Kucherov (Lightning), Eichel (Sabres), Pastrnak (Bruins), Barkov ABSOLUTELY CLUTCH! #TBLVSANA | #GOBOLTS (Panthers). PIC.TWITTER.COM/OBYPIAC3HA That means one spot for…. Point, Leafs center John Tavares (who has — TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING (@TBLIGHTNING) JANUARY 1, 2019 three more goals than Point), Mitch Marner (who has one more point). Our Jonas Siegel wrote that Marner is having one of the greatest Point has 23 goals and 52 points, both ranking in the top 10 in the seasons ever by a Leaf. There’s also Stamkos (22 goals), Skinner, league. Yet when you ask him if he’s looking forward to a rematch with Ottawa’s Matt Duchene, Montreal’s Max Domi and Boston’s Brad Oilers’ superstar Connor McDavid at the Fastest Skater event at Marchand. This all assumes that the Red Wings’ representative is goalie January’s All-Star Game, Point hits the brakes. Jimmy Howard (and not forward Dylan Larkin, who would take up the “Well, I’ve got to make it there first,” Point said. final spot). I think Point has a very good case, with Hall of Famer Scotty Bowman telling me earlier this year he thinks Point is “definitely” a top-10 It’s not far-fetched to think that Point could be a snub when the NHL All- center in the league; Point is also on Selke watch at midseason, having Star rosters are announced Wednesday. It’s not because he’s not tackled most of the tough defensive assignments this season. deserving, it’s just because of the format, where a player from every team in the division needs to be represented. There are only six forwards My guess is Kucherov is a lock, Stamkos is a snub and Point is a maybe on the Atlantic Division team, and five left with the Leafs’ Auston (with the chance that Marner beats him out). Matthews the captain. Both the Leafs and Lightning could make a case There have been some who questioned whether there should even be for three forwards apiece. There are only three defensemen and two All-Star Games anymore, which would make these arguments moot. goalies per division, too. Would players rather just have the weekend off? Something has got to give. I wouldn’t want to be the group of NHL “It’s a tough call,” Stamkos said. “Every All-Star Game I’ve been to has hockey ops who have to make this decision for Jan 26-27 weekend in been a huge hit in terms of fanfest and support we’ve gotten from the San Jose. cities we were in. Fans want to see the best players. We have fun with it. “There are going to be some really, really good players that probably I’ve always said it’s an honor. When you sit back at the end of the day deserve to be All-Stars that aren’t,” captain Steven Stamkos said. “You and talk about the different experiences you had, you get to play with look at this room, you see ‘Pointer,’ ‘Heddy,’ (Ryan McDonagh) is having different players. I’ve embraced the opportunity.” a great year. I mean, you can’t have five guys from one team. That’s just Defense the nature of the beast. It’s a tough selection, especially given our Atlantic Division and how many guys are having great seasons. Victor Hedman is the reigning Norris Trophy winner, but he might not be a lock for this team. “Some guys will go to represent. Some guys will get an extra break.” He has not been the best defenseman on the Lightning this season. That The Lightning did have a league-high five All-Stars last season when the title goes to Ryan McDonagh, whom GM Julien BriseBois said is “playing game was in Tampa (Hedman was selected but did not play, due to some of the best hockey I’ve ever seen a defenseman play.” injury). And you can make a case that Tampa Bay is having some better individual seasons. Stamkos and Kucherov are the first duo to combine McDonagh (three goals, 20 assists) may not have the offensive numbers for more than 50 points (51) in a month since 2001. Four pairs did it then, of Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly (13 goals, 44 points), who should be including Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr. You may have heard of them. a lock for the All-Star Game. But McDonagh, while consistently drawing the toughest matchups, is a plus-20 while averaging 22:01 per game. He “When you’re hot, you’re hot,” Cooper said. “And it just seems like said finally being healthy, having played through a sports hernia last everyone is getting hot at the same time.” season, has helped fuel his strong start. Those first two steps in his So what does that mean for Lightning All-Star selections? We take a skating are key to his effectiveness, his explosiveness. You saw that in look: McDonagh’s spectacular, game-saving strip in a win over Ottawa.

Forwards Hedman, who missed seven games due to injury earlier this season, said it took him a while to get back into the rhythm of his game. He’s been Nikita Kucherov: Kucherov leads the league in points (65) and assists good, with a plus-10 and 24 points, smoothly running the first power play (46), and is on a career-high 11 game-points streak. unit. But Hedman hasn’t quite controlled the game like everyone knows he’s capable of doing. He has been dominant in December, playing at an MVP-caliber level. Kucherov scored again Monday, cashing in on a surprisingly good setup It looks like Rielly will (and should) make the All-Star team. The Senators’ by rookie defenseman Erik Cernak. Thomas Chabot has been their best player, helping make fans forget (well, at least a little) about all-world defenseman Erik Karlsson, who is now with the Sharks. That leaves one spot open for Hedman or McDonagh,

McDonagh has been to two All-Star Games (in 2015-16 and 2016-17 with the Rangers) and would be pumped to make another one.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to go to a couple,” McDonagh said. “It’s a great time interacting with players around the league, and represent your team.”

Who wouldn’t love to see Hedman in the 3-on-3 format? I think there’s a chance either Hedman or McDonagh gets the nod as the third defenseman for the Atlantic.

Goaltenders

Jaroslav Halak (Bruins) is at the top of the heap of the division with a .928 save percentage and a 2.28 goals against average, though he’s split starts (just 22 this year) with Tuukka Rask. Leafs’ Frederik Andersen, with a division-high 20 wins, has put himself in the conversation.

But Andersen, like the Lightning’s Andrei Vasilevskiy, could fall victim to the All-Star selection format, with each team needing to be represented. Who would the Canadiens’ pick be? Max Domi has had a strong start, but it would help squeeze in all the more-worthy forwards if Carey Price became Montreal’s selection, even though his numbers (.904, 2.84) aren’t exactly Price-like. Price is hurt right now, so that could play into this process.

Vasilevskiy, despite missing a month with a fractured foot, still racked up 15 wins (tied with his backup Louis Domingue). His .923 save percentage is the same as Andersen, his goals against average (2.58). Plus he might have had the best game played by a goaltender this season, his Dominik Hasek-like display helping overcome the Leafs last month in Tampa.

Vasilevskiy may very well be back in the Vezina Trophy conversation this summer, but there’s a chance both he and Andersen get snubbed, with the NHL making Price and Detroit’s Jimmy Howard the goalies to help fulfill the format requirements.

So, while Kucherov is a lock, the likes of Point, Hedman and McDonagh will be on the bubble for Wednesday’s selection.

My best guess for the Atlantic Division?

Forwards: Matthews, Kucherov, Eichel, Barkov, Pastrnak, Point

Defensemen: Rielly, Chabot, McDonagh

Goalies: Price, Howard

The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123933 Toronto Maple Leafs

Leafs pulling out stops to snap Nylander’s slump | The Star

By Mark Zwolinski

William Nylander’s New Year’s resolution may have been the same as his Christmas wish: to finally bag his first goal of the season. The left winger has played 11 games without a goal since his contract impasse with the Maple Leafs came to an end, and the slump has taken on a life of its own. Leaf William Nylander, who had five shots on goal in Saturday’s game against the Islanders, arrived at practice minus several inches of his familiar locks. Teammate Nazem Kadri knows what that’s like, struggling to score in a hockey hotbed where you’re constantly reminded of it. Kadri — who went 12 games without a point in one stretch last season — said at Monday’s practice that he learned a lot from dealing with that pressure while getting his offence back on track. Nylander’s burden is compounded by the fact that he just signed a six- year contract worth close to $42 million U.S., raising expectations. He hasn’t looked at all like the 61-point producer he’d been the last two seasons — save for a few flashes — although his defensive game has improved. “I want to get better. I’m not happy (about the slump) at all,” Nylander said. “I’m working to get better every game and I feel like it’s coming.” Leafs coach Mike Babcock is doing what he can to help. Last week, he talked about showing Nylander video of his best moments in a game to boost his confidence. The coach also moved Nylander onto Auston Matthews’ line. The pair showed good chemistry last season, and Nylander had five shots in Saturday’s 4-0 loss to the New York Islanders. That pairing might stick Thursday night when the Leafs host the Minnesota Wild. “When you come back and you have an expectation for yourself, and then it doesn’t go so good, it puts pressure on you,” Babcock said of Nylander, whose two assists this season both came in his third game. “So how do you handle that? Don’t get in your own way … just come and play and compete real hard. “You get one to go in, and it probably goes in off your butt … and it’s amazing how the weight of the world comes off. That’s what we’re hoping.” There’s pressure, sure, but Nylander has always appeared to have the mental makeup to overcome it. At Monday’s practice, a smiling Nylander showed up minus several inches trimmed from his familiar blond locks. “My aunt is in town and she cuts my hair, so I was like: Yeah, we have to do it,” Nylander said. Was it a New Year’s resolution, or was he searching for a good-luck charm? “You never know,” he said. “We’ll see.” After that scrum, Nylander retreated to a private corner of the Leafs’ dressing room. In the room, he’s had plenty of support from young teammates and veterans, who simply tell him to be himself and help the team any way he can. At practice, Nylander warmed up with a weighted stick, similar to the weighted bats baseball players use to get loose. The idea is to make his regular stick feel lighter, which might help. He thinks he’s close to breaking out of the slump at last: “I felt better the last game, and I feel like I’m getting the (conditioning) back.” Toronto Star LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123934 Toronto Maple Leafs “Because the rink’s the same size,” he said. “We’ve just got to bring our focus back to that. It’s another game to play. We play hockey because it’s fun and that’s got to be our focus.” Canada confident ahead of rematch with Finnish foes at world juniors | Toronto Star LOADED: 01.02.2019 The Star

By Gemma Karstens-Smith

VANCOUVER—Morgan Frost believes Canada’s best game is yet to come at this year’s world junior hockey championship. The Canadians lost their final round-robin matchup 2-1 in a tight battle with the Russians on New Year’s Eve, but the defending champions have a chance to redeem themselves when they take on Finland on Wednesday. “It’s the quarter-finals so it’s kind of win or go home,” Frost said. “I think there’ll be a lot of emotion but I think you can expect our best game.” The Finns beat Canada 5-2 in pre-tournament action and the Canadians want revenge, Frost said. “They’re obviously a skilled team,” said the Philadelphia Flyers prospect. “If you give them too many chances on the power play, they’re going to score. So I think we need to stay disciplined and not give up too many scoring chances. They’re definitely a dangerous team.” Finland didn’t make it past the quarter-finals in last year’s tournament, losing in a shootout to the Czech Republic. This time around, the Finnish roster boasts three current NHL players, including Urho Vaakanainen of the Boston Bruins, Nashville Predators forward Eeli Tolvanen and Chicago Blackhawks defenceman Henri Jokiharju. The team also includes Kaapo Kakko, who’s expected to be a high pick in this year’s NHL draft. Still, the squad struggled in the round-robin this year, winning two of four games. Canada won three in a row before the loss to Russia. The Canadians are confident they have what it takes to fend of the skilled Finns, especially after seeing them in an exhibition game, Frost said. “It’s good that we played them and we kind of know what to expect now,” he said. “We have a game plan going in and we just have to execute it.” Not sticking to the plan was Canada’s downfall against Russia on Monday, said head coach Tim Hunter. “We had guys shooting the puck at the net and we had nobody at the net, so there’s a process to scoring goals and we have to stick to that process and we got away from that (Monday) night,” he said. The group will need to play a complete game if they’re going to move on to the medal round, Hunter added. “It’s consistency in our effort, trying to play our game, every shift, every period, and that’s our goal.” Maxime Comtois is the only returning player from last year’s gold medal- winning team. He knows what it’s like to have to bounce back from a loss in the tournament. Canada lost a preliminary-round game to the U.S. in a shootout last year. “We knew what we didn’t apply in that game and it’s the same thing this year, we know what we did wrong and we hit the reset button and just focus on ourselves,” said Canada’s captain. “We have a chance to battle for a medal, stay positive and we have big games coming, stay focused.” Staying focused can be a challenge for young athletes competing on a big stage. Emotions are high and the arena is loud, said Michael DiPietro, Canada’s starting goaltender. “Definitely when you step out on the ice and you hear all the fans cheering your heart starts beating a little bit faster than usual,” said the Vancouver Canucks prospect. DiPietro’s been using breathing techniques to calm himself and lower his heart rate before games and while he’s on the ice. “It’s something that can maybe turn your focus back to the play and back to the game,” he said. Slowing down and recognizing that the quarterfinal match up is just another hockey game will be key for the entire Canadian team, DiPietro said. 1123935 Toronto Maple Leafs “Dave Keon was my favourite growing up, but the Leaf moment that stands out was the Wendel Clark goal in L.A, in Game 6 in ‘93. What a shot.” On the trail of the Maple Leafs in Brooklyn and Jersey Laird wasn’t kidding about the atmosphere at Prudential. Even though the building was just two-thirds full, the friendly banter I heard in the upper bowl gives a sense of real fans; guys and gals wearing their Devils’ Mike Wilson colours with pride, cheering loudly, groan with pain. After years of suffering in Toronto, we know exactly what they’re going through. NEWARK, N.J. — After back-to-back losses in Florida, a good place for any fan on a Maple Leafs road trip to recover is the The Brooklyn Inn. Mike Wilson is travelling to all 41 road games as part of his quest to attend each of the team’s 82 this season. Follow the Ultimate Road Trip One of the oldest in New York, converted from a big house to a big bar in in the Sun and at ultimateleafsfan.com and on Instagram at 1885, it was an ideal stop for me before Toronto played the New Jersey theultimateleafsfan. Devils the next day, en route home. Toronto Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 Little decor has changed in more than 130 years of this establishment. Quite similar to the 19th century Elevator Bar I visited in Columbus, Ohio, last month, the ceiling has a stunning art deco design. It serves no food, nuts or pretzels, has no TV, though it does have a pool table and classic jukebox. The Inn was known by a few different nicknames through the decades, including ‘Dem Bums’ the affectionate term for the Brooklyn Dodgers by sports cartoonist Willard Mullin. Next stop was the corner of Bedford Ave. and Sullivan Place, one-time home of the the Dodgers’ storied Ebbets Field. Built in 1913, it meant as much as the Gardens in Toronto, they played ball there until 1957 when the team broke many hearts and moved to L.A. The Brooklyn team formed way back in 1876 and played at two stadiums before Ebbets. It was here the Dodgers made the historic Jackie Robinson signing, though all that stands of Ebbets today is part of the outfield wall, in a parking lot surrounded by apartments. Just as in Manhattan, you always find something interesting walking the streets of Brooklyn. For me, it was Vinnie’s Iron Works, a building featuring two weather vanes and a statue of Jesus enclosed in a glass case on the roof. I crossed the East and Hudson Rivers to reach the Prudential Center home of the Devils, which has an adjoining rink for the team to practice if there’s an arena event or accommodate youth and senior hockey. Prudential has wide hallways, lots of concession stands and recently added the William Hill sports betting lounge, now legal in the state. You can’t actually bet on site, but staff will guide patrons to the phone app and the odds for those days’ professional games are listed on the tote boards. Alcohol is also served (really, where isn’t it in the U.S.?), allowing adult customers to relax and study the odds while sipping a beverage. Many Leaf fans and families combined a pre-Christmas trip in New York with this game. Newly-married Eric and Lucia Lau came from Toronto to show off the Toronto sweaters they received as wedding gifts. Just so everyone knows who’s in charge, Lucia’s had the ‘C’ and Eric an ‘A’. Eric confided that the devastating Game 7 loss to Boston in 2013 was not so bad in the end. “We’d just met and we were speaking on the phone after Game 7. She listened to my frustrations and pain losing the series even though she wasn’t a fan. Today she is,” he said. The couple held up a sign asking Mitch Marner for a warm-up puck, which the classy young Leaf provided. I informed them a young boy had scored a stick from Marner in Tampa a few nights earlier with a clever sign. The Laus wished they’d thought of asking for that, but were very happy with the puck. The Sarfraz family from Mississauga (Laleni, wife Monica, and kids Maya and Mira) now live in Jersey and are also hard-core. “The Gilmour years, even though they lost (in two conference finals), were my favourite moments,” said Laleni. “It had been a long time since they’d got that far.” Shahryar Hussain from Toronto, residing a few hours away in Philadelphia, loaded the car with kids, Sulayman, Haroon, Yaqub, Maryam, wife Samra and then got a bargain on tickets to see two of the clan’s favourites, Auston Matthews and William Nylander. “Tickets are easier to get here and the boys are seeing their first game live, so it’s worth the drive,” said the senior Hussain. I discovered Manhattan-based financial advisor Cameron Laird and I share Scarborough roots and minor hockey affiliations. He’s lived here for years and often attends Leaf games at all three New York team venues. Ten years ago, his family arrived from across Canada to watch them beat the Isles in a shootout in Uniondale on his 50th birthday. He marvels at the friendly rivalry with the Rangers, Isles and Devils when the Leafs are in town. 1123936 Toronto Maple Leafs McElhinney were lost on waivers. He wasn’t getting too down about his struggles in the Islanders game.

“There’s been a lot happen the last 365 days,” Sparks agreed. “I took a LEAFS SNAPSHOTS: Goaltender Andersen hopes for quick return little time to reflect on everything. If you could’ve told me that’s the way it would have gone Jan. 1, 2018, I’d have taken it 100 per cent. It’s just a matter of finding a way to be happy every morning when you wake up Lance Hornby and just truly appreciate what you get to do here every day. I think 2019 will be better.”

BACK TOGETHER FOR NOW Six months from now, the Maple Leafs hope Frederik Andersen is leading them on a deep playoff run. Babcock’s move back to Nylander with Matthews is meant to deal with the concerning 0-for-10 goal slump and just two assists for Nylander in But he was to begin New Year’s Day solo at the Mastercard Centre with eight games. The latter welcomed more time with Matthews after they did goaltending consultant Steve Briere, trying to work his way back from a so well last season. worrisome groin issue that shelved him the two games after Christmas. “Build something off the chemistry,” a hopeful Nylander said Monday. “I “I don’t know if he’s on with us Wednesday or not,” coach Mike Babcock thought we had a few chances at the end of last game. I’m working to get cautioned at the last practice on Monday. “I don’t ask about those things, better every game and feel I’m coming good now.” (the medical staff) tell me when they’re ready.” Nylander also played around with a heavier stick before Monday’s Andersen and Briere were on their own awhile before the rest of the workout, similar to a weighted bat for an on-deck hitter, designed to let Leafs came out on Monday, concerned teammates chatting with him wield his game twig more comfortably when the drills began. After Andersen as he departed. looking out of gas early in his return, he thought his lung capacity improved his last two starts and believes two days of practice and gym “He’s doing everything he can to make himself feel 100 per cent for the time this week will help. stretch run,” said Garret Sparks, who is in line for his fourth straight game on Thursday afternoon against the Minnesota Wild if Andersen needs LOOSE LEAFS more time. “He’s been really supportive to me, a quiet leader who lets his performance (20 wins) do the talking for him. It’s been inspiring to watch Nylander showed up Monday with his trademark mane noticeably shorn. up close and I try to be as much of the same calming influence for this “My aunt is in town and she cuts my hair,” he explained, having let it grow team.” four or five months, including his time in Sweden during his contract impasse. “We’ll see (if it changes his luck around the net)” … Winger Sparks had a record of 6-1-1 before he and the club as a whole were Kasperi Kapanen had his 15-year-old brother Konsta in town for the slapped around by the far more motivated New York Islanders on holidays, who enjoyed some skating time with the Leafs. Except for a few Saturday, losing 4-0. Until determining Andersen’s state after inches in height, they could be twins … Winger Patrick Marleau will tie Wednesday’s workout, Babcock was not committing to Sparks against former Leaf Larry Murphy for ninth in NHL career games played on the Wild or if Marlies’ Kasimir Kaskisuo or newcomer Michael Hutchinson Thursday, reaching 1,615. would be added as backup. Hutchinson debuted with 31 saves on New Year’s Eve in a 5-4 overtime win against Charlotte. Toronto Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 MOVING ON Four or five years ago, a stinker such as Saturday might have lingered a few days to the detriment of the team and brought an excess of fan and media attention. These Leafs are more able to move past it, having won five in a row before that setback and putting five Ws together twice already since Oct. 1. “I think the fans understand that 99.9% of the time we’re going to give our best effort and leave our best game out there, win or lose, centre Nazem Kadri said. “In an instance like that last game, we’re able to turn the page and worry about the next one.” Babcock ran a hard practice Monday, but didn’t hide a whip behind his back. “We just went 5-0-1 and had a good run. We had a pretty good 2018, won lots of games (51 since Jan. 1, not including a seven-game playoff series). What we did was talk about where we’re at (approaching the 41- game midway point on the schedule this week). We actually have four days to get better, we’ll use rest and practice to do that. We’re now in a spot where we expect more and try to get more.” AULD LANG SYNE, LEAFS It was certainly an eventful 2018 for Sparks, Andreas Johnsson and Travis Dermott, who were summoned to the Leafs at midseason, returned to the Marlies to win the Calder Cup and are now NHL regulars.. “I feel I’m playing at a level of where I want to be,” said Johnsson, voted Calder Cup MVP. The young Swede has proven able to play on several lines, most recently with John Tavares and Mitch Marner, but was moved back with Auston Matthews and William Nylander at Monday’s practice to accommodate Nylander. “You have so many skill guys here that it doesn’t really matter who you play with,” Johnsson said. “I feel we have a system that makes that easier, because you know where everyone is going to be. Everyone is different of course, but you have a good chance of (connecting).” Sparks agreed 2018 was the turning point in his career, beating out candidates on the Marlies, including Calvin Pickard, to be No. 1, AHL goalie of the year and then the Calder. He was Leaf general manager Kyle Dubas’ pick to back-up Andersen when Pickard and Curtis 1123937 Toronto Maple Leafs (Boston and Tampa Bay) that finished ahead of us and stay ahead of all the rest. (Tavares) was a good way to go about that and perfect that process.” LOOKING BACK: Best Maple Leafs quotes of 2018, month by month A big part of luring Tavares home was his chance to play with Matthews and Marner. Lance Hornby “They have accomplished so much in such little time,” Tavares said. “You can only think about the trajectory they’re on and that’s what gets me excited.” A look at the Leafs in 2018, through words and deeds: AUGUST JANUARY – Record 6-3-3 Babcock denies a rift with Matthews, while new blood Tavares, Par Lindholm, Tyler Ennis and Igor Ozhiganov report for summer skates. The The calendar year began on a sad note with the memorial service for Leafs make some history by hiring Hayley Wickenheiser in player Johnny Bower at the ACC. One of the many condolences expressed for development. the 93-year-old was by brief Leafs teammate and Boston rival Gerry Cheevers. “It’s not just a job, I have a role to help the Leafs win (the Cup),” she said. “I feel confident, that I can do my job and handle myself with anyone. I “I thought a goal stick was just for leaning on, but he taught me the poke understand what pressure is, I’ve played for Canada on the world stage. check and a facsimile, the sweep check, which I used a lot. If you shook Hopefully, some of the experiences I’ve had can help some players on hands with him, he had the biggest, strongest ones you saw and that’s the team.” what helped him be such a good goalie. He could swing his stick from both sides. SEPTEMBER “He influenced a generation. I thought he’d never pass away, he was so Camp opens, but with no William Nylander. Leafs win six pre-season energetic, a lovable, sweet man, who’d do anything for you.” games, their most since 2009, while beards and long hair make a comeback and Matthews does some fashion photo layouts. FEBRUARY – Record 10-2-2 “My philosophy has been if a person feels they’re at their best as an The trade deadline came and went with fourth-line centre Tomas individual, they’re going to have their most to give to the team,” Dubas Plekanec the only addition. The Leafs did not acquire a defencemen nor said. “One of Auston’s great interests, outside of the team, is obviously did they move eventual UFAs James van Riemsdyk, Tyler Bozak and fashion. Some people are critical, some are thinking: ‘What is this?’ But Leo Komarov. that’s only because it’s a non-traditional hobby outside of hockey. If a player golfs, listens to music or likes a certain type of movie, nothing is “We are who we are,” said then-GM Lou Lamoriello. “If we could’ve done ever said. I know some people would say: ‘Just focus on hockey’, but something else and not subtracted in other areas, we would have. It hockey takes up four hours of their day. There are 20 more hours that we didn’t happen.” need them to have fulfillment.” MARCH – Record 8-5-0 OCTOBER – Leafs record 8-4-0 After finding out they clinched a playoff spot in their Brooklyn hotel room, The Leafs began the ‘18-19 schedule with a run of 6-1, but by Halloween the Leafs went to the Barclay’s Center and beat the Islanders 5-4 on an were missing the unsigned Nylander and an injured Matthews. Auston Matthews goal to clear 100 points for the first time since ‘03-04. “With the depth we have, everyone can contribute so it doesn’t “This team has grown very close over the past two years,” said Mitch necessarily fall on one person’s shoulders,” Nazem Kadri said. “We play Marner. “We added a couple of people this summer, but even when they the right way with good structure and effort, then lots of times you’ll get came in, it felt they were already part of this group. We’re all helping rewarded. each other. That’s the big part.” NOVEMBER – Leafs record 10-4-0 APRIL- Record 2-1, playoffs 3-4 The game the Leafs wanted the most, a rematch in Boston, went badly, No one played very well in the Game 7 loss to Boston, but it was Jake but they swept California, beat the Bruins at home and won in Pittsburgh Gardiner’s minus-5 that stuck out. and Buffalo. Marner soars to the team scoring lead, one of the Leafs “The season, the series does not come down to one game,” teammate “touched by a wand from God” says Babcock. Ron Hainsey argued. “What’s amazing is most of us have no time and space, whatsoever,” he “Every loss of the four had its own culprits. The reality is, up and down said of Marner. “We’re banging it here, banging it there and chasing it. the lineup is how you win or lose a series. Then the really good guys have all the time in the world. It seems effortless and you can’t figure out why. They’re just better.” A devastated Gardiner said: “I did have a really good year, probably my best year (a career-high 52 points), but it was a bad ending.” DECEMBER – Leafs record 8-2-2 MAY The Leafs set a bevy of team and individual records, as Morgan Rielly moves to the top of NHL defence scoring. They finally get Nylander Kyle Dubas, at 32, becomes GM, Lamoriello and assistant Mark Hunter under contract, though he goes 0-for-December in goals. leave a day apart. “The team that works the hardest wins most nights,” Babcock said during “It’s up to us to continue to use the resources we have at MLSE, but also a stretch of 27 goals in five wins. “When you’re blessed with a little skill, be the most resourceful team we can be,” Dubas said. “That involves you might be able to cheat a bit, but in the end, to get what you want in finding inefficiencies when it comes to our tactical deployment, our player life, your work ethic has to come first. The guy who grinds harder and development staff, our scouting staff and sports science.” longer has more fun in the end. It’s great that we’re fun to watch, I hear that on a nightly basis, but when I hear we’re machine-like to watch, I’ll JUNE be a happy guy.” The AHL Marlies win the Calder Cup — and fans start dreaming about Toronto Sun LOADED: 01.02.2019 the big trophy “It’s the first hockey championship (in Toronto) in 50 years,” goalie Garret Sparks said. “And this core group is going to do it again, at another level. It’s the start of something really special.” “Kyle deserves this more than anyone,” coach Sheldon Keefe added. “This is his plan, this is his vision, coming together.” JULY John Tavares signs as a free agent, for seven years at US$77 million. “You look into trying to build a team that can go far into the playoffs,” Dubas said. “We have to get through the first round, get past those two 1123938 Toronto Maple Leafs There was always something there. In two seasons in Sioux Falls, Dakota posted 37 goals and 82 points in 107 games and another 13

points in 14 playoff games. The Leafs, on that basis, coupled with his Leafs prospects Dakota Joshua, Ryan O’Connell travel unlikely paths size (Dakota is now 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds), took him 128th overall in together at Ohio State 2014.

“He’s got a good brain for the game, he can think, he had a really good stick, and the thing I think was his best asset was for a big kid he was By Scott Wheeler Jan 1, 2019 really good in tight stickhandling and using his body to protect the puck and he really just had a great touch around the net. I enjoyed him. I really

did,” Bragnalo said. COLUMBUS — Until he was 11 years old, Dakota Joshua played house “He was just a fun-loving kid. He had a smile on his face all the time, he league hockey. His mom, Jullee, had played the sport her entire life and was a great locker room guy, and you get these kids in junior who need she’d talked him into following in her footsteps. But they didn’t have the to focus and he needed to focus a little bit and be more consistent but resources to play rep. when he played he played he had a great skill set.” Eventually, when there was no way to hold him back any longer, Jullee (Ohio State Department of Athletics) worked two jobs to pay for hockey — and Dakota immediately made the leap to Triple-A, bouncing between teams across Michigan. After watching Dakota play in the Final Four last season, both Eades and Bragnalo began to see his growth firsthand. More than a decade later, sitting on a plastic chair in the bowels of the Schottenstein Center as a senior on Ohio State University, that path isn’t “In his career here he was strictly an offensive player and didn’t have lost on Dakota. great awareness of the defensive game. And that’s where he has really taken off,” Eades said. Dakota made the full-time jump to junior hockey a year after his peers when he was in Grade 11 not because he lacked talent but because he “Now I see him as a strong two-way centre and a guy who can kill was late to the party. He committed to Ohio State because they were the penalties because he has a great stick defensively and he is first to call. tremendously aware, and he’s long so he catches a lot of seam passes and he’s in position, plus he’s a really good faceoff guy who has touch “It’s a weird path. But I took it and never looked back and it has turned around the net. There are a lot of different things he can fill so it will be out to be a good story,” Dakota said ahead of his team’s Friday night interesting to see how his game translates to the pro level.” meeting with Mercyhurst University. Back on that plastic chair, Dakota knows better than anyone how far he “It’s definitely unusual. It’s usually the dad to get the guys to start playing has come. hockey. It’s a unique situation and my younger brother is now going to Michigan State and we have to give the credit to our mom. She is a hard- “Year 4. Almost done. Finally. The time has come,” he said, raising his working lady and she made sure we could play hockey. She’s a big eyebrows at the prospect of graduation. “I’m doing pretty good as far as inspiration and I want to make it as far as I can for her.” getting my degree goes. If there’s a sore subject for me it’s probably math class but school has gone pretty well other than that. But I want to Dakota has never been the star. He finished second on his Victory play hockey before I have to use my degree.” Honda in scoring in Minor Bantam, fourth on Little Caesars a year later, and seventh on the Detroit Honeybaked. He was always overshadowed The Leafs and the Marlies still regularly check in with texts and phone by teammates. First Ryan Mantha (later an Edmonton Oilers fourth- calls to compare notes on his progression. The conversations are always rounder), then Josh Jacobs (taken in the second round by the New positive, according to Dakota. The Marlies are intrigued by his blend of Jersey Devils). size, skill and strength — and the fact that he plays centre. And Dakota has made his goals clear: When the college season is done, he wants in He was never the captain, either. Old coaches describe their time with on the action. him not for his skill — that’s never been in question — but for the growing up he needed to do. “I feel like that’s the best way to jump in at the end of the year when you’re still in game-ready shape, compared to waiting all offseason and When he made the transition to the USHL with the Sioux Falls then going in there with a new group. And I think also jumping in at the Stampede, it was then-assistant coach Dallas Steward (now an assistant end of the year gives you experience and a little expectation knowing with Michigan Tech) who drafted him because “he just liked the kid as what level you have to be at heading into the summer and where you this lanky kid out of Detroit who needed a kick in the butt every once and stand,” he said. a while but was a really good hockey player.” But after posting 35 points in 33 games as a sophomore, Dakota hasn’t “We just kind of slowly brought him along, he played a couple of games maintained that production in college. here or there, and then once he was with us full-time he was good,” explained Christian Bragnalo, another former Stampede assistant who “It has been a lot of ups and downs, not what I expected maybe. Coming now coaches at prestigious prep school Shattuck-St. Mary’s. “He had to in, I thought I would make more of an impact right away. But it has been develop some leg strength but he put the work in in the gym, got definitely a learning lesson throughout the four years and just evolving as stronger, and he just loves to play. That’s really it.” a player and early on going from not a part of the main core but becoming that over time,” he said. In Sioux Falls, head coach Cary Eades (now the head coach and general manager of the USHL’s Fargo Force), used pride — Dakota has never But he has transformed his game. In back-to-back games against lacked confidence — as a motivating factor. Mercyhurst on December 28 and 29, Dakota anchored the team’s second line and played a matchup role. “When we got him, he was really, really young and had a lot of maturing to do both on and off the ice, just in his consistency and focus, which is “I know at the next level I’m not going to be a five-star forward but I want not uncommon to a lot of young people with talent. You could see the to be able to be used in all situations. I’ve learned in college that I know potential NHL talent in him and yet it was sporadic at that point and that’s my strengths: Getting the puck down low and using my body to my what he has worked really hard to grow his game and put himself in the advantage,” Dakota said. picture,” Eades said. “I feel like I’ve handled it well, plus there’s a lot of progress I still feel my “There was teaching of the game, of life, and you have a major impact on body can make. As far as I’m concerned, I need to make sure I’m a player. He received a lot of coaching. He has really matured and been available for the puck and knowing how to support my guys better and a consistent player for Ohio State and that will carry over into other play a two-way game.” aspects of his life as he finishes hockey down the road. With him, it was just a matter of showing him via video what he was like when he really When he graduates, Dakota’s collegiate story will be one of growth. He’s played well compared to when he was off and unfocused and the wheels the kick-in-the-butt kid who was named to the 2018 NCAA Midwest weren’t turning as quickly as they needed to.” Regional All-Tournament Team and an honorable mention All-B1G in 2017. In the classroom, he was a two-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete and Academic All-Big Ten recipient. Part of his dip in production is a by-product of luck. Entering Saturday, off to the Jr. A Challenge and never came back,” Harbinson said on a his 69 shots in 17 games (or 4.06 shots per game) bested his marks of recent phone call. all three prior seasons (3.06, 2.79, and 1.79 shots per game respectively) while his 5.7 per cent shooting percentage trailed behind the 14.4, 13 per “He was great in the short time that we had him. He sees the ice well, he cent clips of his junior and sophomore years. By the time the last skates extremely well, and it was just one of those situations where he weekend in December was wrapped up, Dakota skated away with three needed game strength. Luckily for him, he was able to recover from the assists, making the play that led to the Buckeyes’ third and fourth goals injury.” in their second-consecutive win over Mercyhurst (after drawing a holding When he went down, his 14 points in 26 games ranked among the penalty by driving the net in the first period). He now has nine points in BCHL’s highest scoring rookies. his last 10 games after a slow start. “It was a tough situation and a big hole in our lineup. And for a young “Dakota has been a big piece of the puzzle here for three and a half man, you only get so many years to play and develop and it was years. He does a lot for us; big plays, big nights, big goals, you saw what something that he had to fight through to come out of the situation ready he did down the stretch last year. Matt Weiss went down and one guy for his freshman year,” Harbinson added. “He was a very good kid, a said he wanted to step up and play against everybody’s best line and that good family, very quiet. He was well-liked in the locker room, very was Dakota — and he did. This year, no matter who’s out there he plays respectful to his coaches, and just a kid you hope and want to see the same way,” head coach Steve Rohlik said after the game. succeed.”

“He’s still loaded with potential and I don’t think he’s reached his potential Harbinson and the Leafs aren’t the only ones who’ve recognized that yet. Sky’s the limit for him and his best hockey is yet to come for us too.” talent, either.

Ryan O’Connell knew his arm was snapped when he tried to lift himself “In his second year he popped at our level because of his elite skating off the ice. and his escapability and you could see that once he fills out physically It was the biggest stage of his career and he was representing his he’s going to have a nice package of skills that are attractive. That’s why country against the United States at the World Jr. A Challenge when he the Leafs thought he’d be a four-year college player and that’s still going was awkwardly hit into the stanchion, jamming his arm. to be the case unless something aggressive happens physically,” SAC head coach David Manning said. He had to get up. But he couldn’t. At least not with that arm. He’d broken bones before. He knew that feeling. “I wouldn’t say it’s a gamble because all of those late picks are gambles. They have the luxury of time. They don’t have to make a decision at 20. “It was just terrible. It’s pretty crazy,” he said, laughing, his Buckeyes hat They’re going to make a decision on him when he’s 23, 24 and you’ll pulled low over his eyes, as he rolled up the sleeve on his hoodie to have a much better idea of what he’ll be.” reveal the jarring purple scar that runs from just above his wrist to nearly his elbow. Manning saw him develop from the undersized late-round OHL pick he saw play in midget and noticed for the way his head was always up but Six months after the Leafs took him out of nearby prep school St. admitted he “didn’t jump off the page.” He describes him as coachable, Andrew’s College (SAC), O’Connell’s season was derailed. quiet, and the last person to ever complain.

There was fleeting optimism early on. It was broken but it would heal and “Whatever we needed him to do, he was going to do. He played a very he’d be back on the ice with his Penticton Vees in the BCHL in short important role for us in his senior year. We leaned on him heavily and he order. produced game-in and game-out. He’s always been a very aware and smart player. Once his physical skill set kind of grew, you got to see But after meeting with doctors once more before a planned return to some of that come out,” Manning said. Penticton, they gave him bad news. “But his ability to read pressure and escape and make decisions, he’s His arm was broken — again. This time, his radius (one of the forearm’s such an elite skater that it’s just going to take some time. He’s tall but two bones) was permanently displaced. The break was worse than the he’s still very slight.” last and he would need surgery. A plate and six screws later, his season was over. When Manning recently watched him play while travelling for a tournament in Minnesota, he came away impressed. (St. Andrew’s College) “He’s playing against 23-year-olds as a 19-year-old and he’s not the most O’Connell always knew his odds were long. After getting drafted 145th physically gifted kid in terms of strength but for me it was really overall by the OHL’s Missisauga Steelehads in 2015 and 53rd overall by encouraging to see him battling in front and leaning on people, which the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers in 2o16, he’d taken the BCHL route wasn’t a staple of his game previously. I don’t think he had a turnover in by way of SAC because he knew if he was going to make it it was going the game, he managed the puck really well and kept things moving to be on his terms. Always the shortest player on his team growing up forward, and that’s what he’ll be,” Manning said. (teams that won the 2013 and 2014 eastern Ontario Bantam and Midget championships), he didn’t hit a growth spurt until Grade 11. By the end of “He’s got enough skating ability and smarts to read the play and pucks Grade 12, he was one of the tallest kids on SAC’s varsity team. just move right through him. I don’t know how much elite skills he’s going Coincidentally, his game took off and he started getting noticed too. to have at this stage but he’s still got time to add strength, which will add the ability to become a shooter, which was the one big area we stressed But now the odds were really stacked against him, and he had to drop a for him because he doesn’t have an NHL quality shot. That would add a commitment to in favour of Ohio State, where he knew wrinkle to his game.” he’d have more time to ease into the college game. (Ohio State Department of Athletics) After returning to Ottawa, where he grew up, for rehab and surgery (the Leafs knew his surgeon), it took a “long” four months before he was back While he’s scoreless through 17 games with Ohio State, O’Connell he on the ice in April. stepped into the Buckeyes lineup as its lone freshman defenceman and plays regularly on its third pairing. And even by the time he was skating again, he was fearful. He’s fine with that, knowing his process will take a full four years. He’s “I was scared to shoot again. Like I didn’t know when I was ready. It now 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds and working hard to regain lost strength in didn’t hurt but I was scared. I didn’t know how long the healing process the gym — an advantage to the reduced schedule in college. was going to be,” he said. He’s taking economics, a program he’s really enjoying after SAC instilled It came at the worst time, too. Penticton general manager and head a strong emphasis in education, and living in a dorm with the team’s coach Fred Harbinson doesn’t mince his words about that. other freshmen. Next year, he looks forward to moving into one of the “It was a major blow to our program last year to be honest with you. You three houses the players share. work hard to recruit a player of Ryan’s calibre and he was, like any player “I’m just trying to get stronger. I grew so fast and I haven’t been able to the first few games, finding his way in junior hockey and then you could put on as much weight as I would have liked. I love it here. It’s a big just really start to see him taking off before Christmas and then he heads change for sure but they treat us really well. It’s a step up from juniors in terms of the intensity of hockey and being so focused on school, because last year I didn’t have to go to school. You can’t just lean too much on the school side or the hockey side because you’ll lack in one,” he said.

“But it wasn’t the typical path. It was a lot different. Like I kind of just did what I thought was best. I didn’t really focus on what everyone else was doing, which probably benefitted me in the end.”

The Leafs are keeping close tabs on him too. Like Dakota, he gets those monthly texts and calls. And two development camps have helped ease some early nerves about his potential path within the organization.

After a week at home over the holidays, his parents, sad to see him go, travelled to Columbus for the back-to-back against Mercyhurst. And they got to see him getting back to himself, nearly a year to the day after everything was in jeopardy.

“It was a huge jump for him the first month here. He was overwhelmed a bit but we stuck with it. I think he has an incredible future, incredible skill set and hockey sense. He was playing his best hockey right before the break and now we need to get him going again,” Rohlik said.

“You’re going to see Ryan with another 20 pounds on him over the next two years and then you’re going to see a pretty good hockey player.”

The first time Dakota met Ryan, it was the summer of 2017 and the former remembers seeing the latter and thinking “wow, I’m getting old.”

“Sure enough he ends up on our team,” Dakota said, laughing.

At the time, Ryan was headed for Boston College but the pair became fast friends anyway.

When O’Connell decided to switch his commitment, it wasn’t a coincidence he ended up a Buckeye.

“We were pretty close and I knew he was at Ohio so that definitely had an impact on my decision to come here. He’s a great guy. Off the ice he’s an amazing person, he’s really funny,” Ryan said. “Plus he’s a big power forward, so that never hurts.”

Dakota’s happy to play role model too. As a senior, that’s his job. A few years from now, in a different league and city, it may be his job once more too.

“Ryan’s a very smooth player and a very smart hockey player. He’s not the most flashy but when you watch him you know that he’s getting it done and he’s good a good stick and he’s obviously a tall, long body that still has some growing to do. As a young defenceman in college hockey he has done a really good job,” Dakota said.

“It’s almost like a little brother, older brother type of thing. I know he looks up to me but we have become really good friends so it’s extra cool that we were both drafted to Toronto.”

The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019

1123939 Vegas Golden Knights He did it again Tuesday, beating Campbell for a 1-0 lead. Campbell is the guy with 21 career NHL games but looks more like Patrick Roy when facing the Knights, having now stopped 87 shots in two Pirri’s play for Knights making McPhee’s decision tougher by the goal games here, where he won his first career game last February. He was going along that way again before Pirri took aim. By Ed Graney / Las Vegas Review-Journal Seven games, six goals, one huge and difficult decision for McPhee. Hey, it’s the price of being really good. It’s always best to have options in sports, always a desired position to LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 01.02.2019 own when difficult roster decisions must be made due to an abundance of capable choices. Such is life for really good teams. Which brings us to the conundrum that is Brandon Pirri and the Golden Knights. Fireworks lit up the sky at midnight on New Year’s Eve and another holiday season passed and Pirri has scored again, the latter becoming as expected an occurrence as Carnell Johnson strolling onto the ice when it’s time for the national anthem. “It seems like (Pirri) is scoring every game for us,” said Knights coach Gerard Gallant. Almost. Pirri was the one who finally solved the Great Jack Campbell (more on him later) Tuesday night, his power-play goal in the third period breaking a scoreless tie in which the Knights ultimately earned a 2-0 victory against the Kings before an announced gathering of 18,319 at T-Mobile Arena. If you are one to follow the Knights across social media, you know well Pirri’s story, a 27-year-old forward who was leading the American Hockey League in scoring when recalled from the Chicago Wolves on Dec. 19, who was inserted onto the second line as Max Pacioretty went to injured reserve, who now has six goals in seven games, whose long-term tenure in Las Vegas remains as unknown as when he first came up. Here’s why: Should he play 10 games with the Knights and then be sent back to the AHL, Pirri would have to clear waivers and, given his offensive numbers in such a small window, the odds of that happening compare to Gallant sharing at his next news conference detailed reports of each player’s medical history. Pacioretty skated with the team Tuesday morning and at least appears close to returning, meaning the team could send Pirri back to the Wolves before he hits that 10-game mark and not risk losing him. But in a game where scoring is, well, sort of incredibly important, can you really not find a place for this hot a hand? Maybe, if the book on Pirri is correct. Which is this: He’s a sniper and a good one. He’s a top-six forward. He’s not a guy who can consistently grind like third-liners, not a player who could fit into a situation like when the Knights beat Colorado 2-1 and forwards Oscar Lindberg, Cody Eakin and Ryan Carpenter were specifically used to shut down the league’s best line. Gallant said Tuesday that Pirri has improved defensively, that he’s more able to play a 200-foot game. But when defense was needed late to keep the Kings off the scoreboard, it was Pierre Edouard-Bellemare joining the second line in place of Pirri. This is a tough one for general manager George McPhee. You would think Lindberg or Carpenter would be claimed off waivers if risked. You could send Pirri down now and take a moment before deciding whether or not to bring him back full time. He’s beyond a bargain at $650,000, especially if his scoring continued. But this isn’t as easy as some (see social media) believe. You don’t keep him up at all costs. It has to make sense for more than just his stellar play thus far. One move always creates another. Making decision tough “I can’t worry about what I can’t control,” said Pirri, who has played for four other NHL teams and whose career has been defined by this sort of uncertainty. “When I was 19, 20 years old, going up and down, it was more stressful. But now, I’m, 27 and have a wife and kid. If you can’t enjoy the journey, your dream wasn’t to play in the NHL. For a kid from Toronto, this was probably my dream since I was 2. “I just have to do my best to make the decision hard on management. Work hard and be consistent. That’s what every NHL team wants, a guy who does it on a night-to-night basis.” 1123940 Vegas Golden Knights

Golden Knights blank Kings 2-0 to open new year

By David Schoen / Las Vegas Review-Journal

Marc-Andre Fleury rested his right arm on the knob of his goalie stick and casually leaned against his net late in the second period. The Golden Knights made sure their goaltender was able to kick back and relax Tuesday. Fleury was called upon to make a mere 17 saves, as the Golden Knights opened 2019 by blanking Los Angeles 2-0 at T-Mobile Arena. “It’s not easy to play those games,” Fleury said. “I feel like sometimes when you get more shots, you don’t think you just play. It just feels easier, more comfortable. “I guess I just tried to stay sharp, moving around so when they get that first shot you make the saves.” Brandon Pirri continued his remarkable hot streak with a power-play goal at 3:43 of the third period, and Alex Tuch added an empty-net goal from center ice with 33 seconds remaining. The Knights won their fourth straight and extended their points streak to seven games (5-0-2) while moving into a tie for first place in the Pacific Division with idle Calgary at 52 points. “Since the Christmas break, we’ve played great hockey,” coach Gerard Gallant said. “We look like we have a lot more energy in our step and the guys are playing well and working hard. I love the way we’ve played the last four games for sure.” This was the third meeting in 10 days between the budding rivals and fourth since Dec. 8, with each team winning twice. The clubs don’t play again until the regular-season finale April 6 at Los Angeles. The Kings, who were playing the last half of a back-to-back, went more than 20 minutes of game time without a shot on goal until Anze Kopitar’s drive with 2:09 remaining in the second period. The Knights outshot Los Angeles 18-4 in the second period, though the Kings nearly took the lead with a little more than a minute left in the second when Ilya Kovalchuk hit the post. Fleury denied Tyler Toffoli on a breakaway 6:22 into the third period, stretching out his left pad. “I was just trying to stay patient,” Fleury said. “He got the OT winner, I think, last time we played them (at T-Mobile Arena on Dec. 23). I owed them one, and I was very happy to stop him.” Fleury recorded his league-leading 23rd victory and sixth shutout. It was the 54th shutout of his career, moving him into a tie for 21st all time with Ed Giacomin and Bernie Parent. He joked that the announced crowd of 18,319 can put off their New Year’s resolution for a day and enjoy the doughnuts distributed to ticket holders after shutouts. “I think it’s going to test everybody’s will,” he said. “Maybe they can start (their diets) on the third.” Pirri pounced on a loose puck near the right faceoff circle and fired it past down-and-out Kings goaltender Jack Campbell for his sixth goal in seven games since he was first recalled from the American Hockey League on Dec. 19. Pirri also had an assist on Tuch’s empty-netter for his second consecutive two-point game. Campbell, making his first start since Nov. 10 after surgery to repair a meniscus tear in his knee, was outstanding for the Kings with 46 saves. The 17 shots allowed by the Knights matched their season low set Oct. 8 at Buffalo. “I think we were playing a game we liked, but didn’t love,” defenseman Nate Schmidt said. “But then in the second period, our guys really buckled down. You could just see their guys were getting a little tired and maybe there was a little bit of blood in the water. They had to travel and with the time change with that, it’s tough. I think we took advantage of that.” LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123941 Vegas Golden Knights

Golden Knights begin pivotal month on NHL calendar

By Adam Hill / Las Vegas Review-Journal

There are several important dates on the calendar that are traditional measuring sticks during the NHL season. Jan. 1 doesn’t seem to be one of them, at least in the Golden Knights locker room. “I don’t even know the days or the dates half the time when we’re playing,” coach Gerard Gallant said. “I know we just passed the halfway mark, which is a key for us. We’ve played some really good hockey over this stretch. That’s all I’m worried about.” Defenseman Nate Schmidt sees New Year’s Day as the start of an important month for hockey teams. “I think January itself is a mile marker for the season,” he said. “It’s usually about the halfway point, and it’s usually about the time in the season where you’re trying to put everything together to find out what you’re made of for the rest of the year. I know there’s a bunch of stats about where you are at Thanksgiving or Christmas or whatever, but I think the month of January is the storyteller of the season. You understand if you’re in or out or a buyer or a seller at the trade deadline. Those questions are answered in January.” Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Kings was the first of seven home games in January. The Knights play three road games in the month. Roster update Forward Max Pacioretty participated in the team’s morning skate at City National Arena but remains on injured reserve with a lower-body injury. Gallant said Pacioretty was close to returning. He has been out since leaving a game at Columbus on Dec. 17. “He’s still day to day but doing good. Hopefully soon,” Gallant said. Defenseman Colin Miller didn’t skate and remains on injured reserve with an upper-body injury. Gallant also said Miller was day to day. The coach had no update on Valentin Zykov, who was claimed off waivers Saturday but has yet to join the team because of an immigration delay. Gallant gave a brief assessment of what he expects from Zykov when he joins the team. “He’s a big, strong guy,” Gallant said of the 2013 second-round draft pick. “He hasn’t played a whole lot in the NHL, but he’s had a lot of success in the (American Hockey League). He goes to the front of the net real hard, and he’s got great hands to put the puck in the net. He’s just got to do it at the next level.” Desert winter classic? The outdoor game between the Chicago Blackhawks and Boston Bruins was on the TV in the Knights locker room as the morning skate concluded Tuesday. Schmidt was intrigued by the possibility of playing in the event. “I think these games are great for the sport,” he said. “I love the traditional matchups like this, but at the same time, it would be nice to see a Golden Knights game. It seems as though there’s similar types of teams every year, which I understand in that you want to hit as broad an audience as possible just to grow the sport.” Schmidt played in an outdoor game in college and said he loved it despite a subpar playing surface. Ryan Reaves had a similar opinion of his 2017 Winter Classic experience with the Blues. “It was a blast,” he said. “It’s always nice to get some good ice and good weather. I’ve seen some games with a lot of snow, and the year I played, we had some rain in the first period, but it was great. It was one of the cooler experiences of my life, for sure.” LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123942 Vegas Golden Knights

GAME DAY: Golden Knights usher in new year against Kings

By David Schoen / Las Vegas Review-Journal

The Golden Knights host the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday at T-Mobile Arena, the fourth meeting in the past 25 days between the teams. Opening faceoff is 6 p.m., and the game will be televised on AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain. The Knights (23-15-4, 50 points), who are second in the Pacific Division behind Calgary, defeated Los Angeles 4-1 on Saturday at Staples Center after going 0-1-1 in the first two matchups against their Southern California rival. “You play a team this many times in a week, it’s good for you,” coach Gerard Gallant said. “You know the team. Both teams are ready to play, and they had a big win last night in Colorado, so I’m sure they’ll be ready again today. “It’s fun. You make big rivalries with these teams. They’re battling hard. They’re playing a lot better hockey lately. We had a good game against them last game, so hopefully we can play well against them tonight.” Marc-Andre Fleury is expected to make his NHL-leading 37th start after a 29-save effort Sunday in a 5-1 victory at Arizona. The Knights have won three straight and are riding a six-game point streak (4-0-2). The Knights play four of their next five at home, where they’ve compiled a 12-3-3 record. Gallant is expected to make one change to his lineup, with Jon Merrill replacing Brad Hunt on defense. Left wing Max Pacioretty and defenseman Colin Miller remain on injured reserve. Valentin Zykov, who was claimed off waivers Saturday, has not reported to the team due to immigration delays. Los Angeles (16-21-3, 35 points) defeated Colorado 3-2 in overtime Monday and arrived in Las Vegas just before the new year. Forward Dustin Brown’s team-leading 11th goal was the game-winner, and defenseman Drew Doughty scored for the first time since Nov. 24 (17 games). Kings defenseman Sean Walker registered his first career NHL goal in the victory. The Kings, who have won five of their past six games, did not have a morning skate, and no lineup information was made available. Jonathan Quick made 22 saves in the victory over the Avalanche on Monday. Jack Campbell was recalled from the American Hockey League on Monday and could play the second game of the back-to-back for Los Angeles. “We’ve been doing a good job,” Knights center Cody Eakin said. “We’ve been paying attention to details, all the little things, and we’re starting to see good outcomes in the last few games. We want to get better and continue on this pace.” Golden Knights projected lineup Forwards Jonathan Marchessault-William Karlsson-Reilly Smith Brandon Pirri-Paul Stastny-Alex Tuch William Carrier-Cody Eakin-Ryan Carpenter Tomas Nosek-Pierre-Edouard Bellemare-Ryan Reaves Defensemen Brayden McNabb-Nate Schmidt Shea Theodore-Deryk Engelland Jon Merrill-Hunt-Nick Holden Goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury 1123943 Vegas Golden Knights The Kings beat the Avalanche in overtime last night and then traveled to Las Vegas. They have won five of their last six games, with their only loss coming on Saturday against Vegas. Golden Knights outlast Kings in low-scoring battle "You play a team this many times in a week, it's good," coach Gerard Gallant said. "They're battling hard, they're playing a lot better hockey lately and we had a good game against them last night so hopefully we By Justin Emerson (contact) play good against them tonight." Forward Max Pacioretty took the ice at practice this morning, though Gallant did not offer an update other than to say he is day-to-day and he It took the Golden Knights awhile, and they only scored once against the will be back "hopefully soon." Defenseman Colin Miller was not on the opposing goalie, but when they did it was enough to beat the Los ice, but Gallant said he is day-to-day with an upper body injury. Neither Angeles Kings. has played since Dec. 17. Brandon Pirri broke the scoreless tie with a power-play goal three Gallant said he does not know when recent waiver acquisition Valentin minutes into the third period tonight to lift Vegas over the Kings at T- Zykov will join the team. Mobile Arena, 2-0. Emerson's Prediction: Golden Knights 4, Kings 2 Alex Tuch added an empty-net goal with 33 seconds remaining. Season record for predictions: Keefer 5-4, Emerson 6-6 The Golden Knights had 48 shots on goal, and only had the one goal because Kings goalie Jack Campbell was superb. The 17 shots allowed TV: AT&T SportsNet (DirecTV 684, Cox 1313, CenturyLink 1760) were tied for the fewest by the Golden Knights this season. Radio: Fox Sports 1340 AM and 98.9 FM But the Vegas goalie wasn't too bad either. Marc-Andre Fleury faced his biggest opposition in the third, when Tyler Toffoli, who beat Fleury in Betting line: Golden Knights minus-245, Kings plus-225; over/under: 5.5 overtime last Sunday on a breakaway, found himself on a breakaway (plus-105, minus-115) again with Fleury. This time the Golden Knights goalie stopped him, Golden Knights (23-15-4) (12-3-3 home) stretching all the way across the crease to make a pad save and keep Los Angeles off the scoreboard. Coach: Gerard Gallant (second season) The Golden Knights have won four in a row since the Christmas break. Points leader: William Karlsson, Jonathan Marchessault, Alex Tuch (30) Golden Knights close to history Goals leader: William Karlsson (15) The Golden Knights may not have scored in the second period, but they Assists leader: Reilly Smith (18) came close to making some history. Expected goalie: Marc-Andre Fleury (2.55 gaa, .910 save percentage) The Golden Knights did not allow the first shot on goal by the Los Angeles Kings until thw 17:51 mark of the period, and outshot the Kings Kings (16-21-3) (7-10-2 road) 18-4 in the second period that ended 0-0. Coach: Willie Desjardins (first season) Vegas had never held an opponent shotless in a period, with the closest Points leader: Anze Kopitar (27) call coming on Oct. 26 when it held the Tampa Bay Lightning to one shot in the third period. The Kings went 20:26 from their last shot in the first Goals leader: Dustin Brown (11) period until their first shot in the second. Assists leader: Drew Doughty (9) The Golden Knights held a 40-10 edge in unblocked shot attempts in all situations during the period. Expected goalie: Jonathan Quick (2.87 gaa, .904 save percentage) On the other end, Los Angeles goalie Jack Campbell was superb, Golden Knights expected lineup making 18 saves in the period and standing on his head to make up for a Forwards toothless Kings offense. Jonathan Marchessault, William Karlsson, Reilly Smith, Brandon Pirri, No score through a period Paul Stastny, Alex Tuch, William Carrier, Cody Eakin, Ryan Carpenter, It looked sloppy to begin with, but both teams found their feet underneath Oscar Lindberg, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, Ryan Reaves them and turned in an entertaining period of hockey to begin Tuesday's Defensemen game, albeit with no goals. Brayden McNabb, Nate Schmidt, Shea Theodore, Deryk Engelland, Nick The Golden Knights played to a 0-0 draw through a period, with Vegas Holden, Jon Merrill holding the edge in shots on goal, 9-8. Goalies The Kings came out hot with four of the game's first five shots and it took more than one strong defensive play to keep the puck out of the Vegas Marc-Andre Fleury, Malcolm Subban net. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Alex Tuch had the Golden Knights' best chance when his shot got by Los Angeles goalie Jack Campbell, but Campbell gloved it before it crossed the goal line. Pre-game The Golden Knights will begin 2019 against a familiar opponent: the Los Angeles Kings. The 6 p.m. game tonight at T-Mobile Arena marks the third time in 10 days the squads have met, and the fourth they have played since Dec. 8. "It's a team that you like to play against because it's fun," defenseman Nate Schmidt said. "It's a good rivalry, it's a fun atmosphere. Our fans get into it, their fans get into it, it's blossoming into something big and it's always fun to play these kind of games." The Golden Knights enter on a three-game winning streak, including winning games Saturday at the Kings and Sunday in Arizona. Vegas has not allowed more than one goal in a game since the Christmas break, and only one of the three goals have been at even strength. 1123944 Vegas Golden Knights

2019 Looks Like 2018 for Golden Knights: Another 18,300 Plus Crowd, Shutout, Free Donuts, Win

By ALAN SNEL

Another 18,300 plus sellout that packed T-Mobile Arena. Another Marc- Andre Fleury shutout that meant a dozen free Krispy Kreme donuts for fans in attendance (Flower’s NHL-leading sixth shutout of the year). Another goal by a VGK sniper named Brandon Pirri. The Golden Knights turned the page on 2018 and began 2019 with some likely suspects — delirious fans, a goalie leading the NHL in wins and a second-line forward that has a knack for finding the back of the opponent’s goal net. Chance and player Pirri The Knights rolled out a fun Anti-Resolution ticket bundle deal for the Jan. 1 game that allowed fans to purchase a ticket for as low as $65 and receive a free hot dog and soda, too. Groups of four tickets that were purchased meant five Golden Knights-branded cigars were thrown into the deal. With the Golden Knights selling out their season tickets and hundreds of fans on a waiting list, the Anti-Resolution ticket deal for Tuesday went fast. VGK President Kerry Bubolz said the Jan. 1 Anti-Resolution tickets were gobbled quickly because there weren’t too many to begin with. The VGK dads were back. It’s Pirri again with a goal tonight. The Golden Knights’ attendance Tuesday was more than its average of 18,293, which is 105.3 percent of capacity at T-Mobile Arena, where the team considers a sellout at 17,367. The next home game is Sunday at 1 p.m. when the New Jersey Devils come to the Fortress after the Devils came back and defeated the Knights in OT in New Jersey during the VGK’s metro New York City roadtrip. Many Knights fans also came to T-Mobile Arena Tuesday after attending the VGK-Arizona Coyotes game in Arizona Sunday, making Gila River Arena a version of T-Mobile Arena South. LVSportsBiz.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123945 Washington Capitals This past year has undoubtedly been the best of Ovechkin’s life — along with winning a first Stanley Cup, he welcomed a first child, his son, Sergei — but as he stood in front of his locker room stall Monday, he was ‘New year and new hockey’: Alex Ovechkin not sweating six-game goal excited for 2019 and what this year might bring, that it could somehow drought top the last. “I think he’s gotten some chances, gotten some really good looks,” Reirden said. “We saw him score an outrageous number there for a while By Isabelle Khurshudyan January 1 at 1:32 PM and it was not humanly possible really to continue at that pace in today’s game. I think he’s just got to continue doing what he’s been doing. He’s been getting a lot of the same chances and they’re not going in at this point.” Alex Ovechkin almost sounded disappointed after he had skated more than 25 minutes against the Buffalo Sabres on Dec. 15, finishing with a Washington Post LOADED: 01.02.2019 goal and the game-winning shootout strike. “You can’t score every night,” he said then, an amusing statement at the time because he had just scored his seventh goal in three games and was on a six-game goal streak. But as steady a goal scorer as Ovechkin has been in his 14- season career, even he knows it can come in waves and then fall flat. Perhaps that night, he sensed what was on the horizon. On the precipice of his 30th goal, Ovechkin hasn’t scored in six games, ever since that night against the Sabres. He still leads the league with 29, and no one is even remotely concerned about his production because he’s still on pace to finish with 60, something no player has done since Tampa Bay’s Steven Stamkos in 2012. A six-game drought wouldn’t be notable for pretty much any other player in the NHL, but because it’s Ovechkin and this is now his worst stretch of the season, he was asked about this dry spell after a New Year’s Eve matinee game against the Nashville Predators, which his Washington Capitals lost, 6-3. “It’s okay,” Ovechkin said before the reporter could even finish the question. “It’s the end of the year, you know? Tomorrow is going to be a new day, a new year and new hockey.” [Capitals’ memorable 2018 comes to a close with forgettable 6-3 loss to Predators] He might also get new linemates, which could be enough to get him going again. Ovechkin has been beside center Nicklas Backstrom and right wing T.J. Oshie for the past nine games, and that trio was considered one of the league’s best from 2015 to 2017. But former coach Barry Trotz avoided pairing those three together last season because he privately worried the line would lack the necessary speed to be effective in today’s NHL, getting faster with each infusion of young talent. Like Trotz, Coach Todd Reirden has preferred to keep Backstrom and Oshie paired together because they form a reliable defensive duo that can be matched against opponents' top forwards. When Oshie returned to the lineup after missing 11 games with a concussion, forward Tom Wilson was still out with a concussion, so Reirden plugged in Oshie beside Ovechkin and Backstrom. Ovechkin had hat tricks in each of the trio’s first two games together, a good reason for Reirden to keep that line intact for the next three weeks. It’s a testament to the growth of Ovechkin’s two-way play that he has been a good fit with those two. Against the Ottawa Senators, all three players were on the ice for the last minute of regulation, when the Senators had pulled their goaltender for an extra attacker in the one-goal game. In past years, Ovechkin wouldn’t have been considered reliable enough defensively to play in that situation, typically only on the ice in a five-on-six if Washington was up by two goals. “I said it all year long, even before he scored 29 goals, that it’s about his two-way play and the things that help our team and that’s what he’s able to add,” Reirden said. “Obviously, goal-scoring is nice and we all love that, but at the end of the day it’s about our team finding ways to win like we did at the end of last year.” [Alex Ovechkin voted NHL All-Star Game’s Metropolitan Division captain] The encouraging thing for the Capitals is that they’ve won four of the six games Ovechkin hasn’t scored a goal, and are still atop the Metropolitan Division standings. But against the Predators on Monday, the top line with Ovechkin, Backstrom and Oshie seemed to have run its course. Reirden first had Wilson replace Oshie there, and by the third period, he switched the centers, too, with Evgeny Kuznetsov between Ovechkin and Wilson. That left a second trio of Backstrom, Oshie and left wing Jakub Vrana, essentially reconstructing the top-six forward corps from Washington’s Stanley Cup run. Between Wilson’s 16-game suspension to start the season and then both Kuznetsov and Wilson missing games with concussions, a combination of Ovechkin, Wilson and Kuznetsov has been on the ice for just 20:55 at five-on-five this season, according to Natural Stat Trick. But in that small sample size, it’s dominated, taking 63.6 percent of the shot attempts when on the ice. 1123946 Washington Capitals Said Reirden, “We’ll continue to re-watch the film and see what ways we can be better and what combinations will work best for us moving forward. Adjustments needed as Alex Ovechkin, top line have gone dry for Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.02.2019 Capitals

By J.J. Regan January 01, 2019 10:11 AM

The Nashville Predators took their first lead of the game on Monday in the second period when Frederick Gaudreau managed to chip a puck in over the shoulder of goalie Braden Holtby. A one-goal deficit in the second period is not insurmountable for any team in the NHL, but especially not for the Alex Ovechkin-led Capitals. Yet, this time there were no heroics from the NHL’s leading goal-scorer. There was no hat trick to carry the team to the victory, or a single goal to tie the game for the team to rally around. Washington would ultimately fall 6-3 as Nashville snapped a six-game losing streak. Ovechkin, meanwhile, saw his goalless streak extend to six games, his longest drought of the season. "It's OK,” Ovechkin said after the game. “It's the end of the year, you know? Tomorrow is going to be a new day, a new year and new hockey." Ovechkin’s pace to start the season was untenable, and there was always going to come a time in which the goals became harder to come by. His current cold streak is not particularly concerning. What is concerning, however, is the fact that the entire top line is struggling to produce as well. T.J. Oshie returned to the lineup on Dec. 11 after recovering from a concussion. He was immediately placed onto the top line to play alongside Ovechkin and Backstrom. Since then, the results have been underwhelming. The last even strength goal scored by Ovechkin, Backstrom or Oshie was actually Ovechkin’s last goal, which came on Dec. 14 against the Buffalo Sabres. That means not only is Ovechkin on a six-game slump, the entire line is. In the past six games, that line has combined for just five even strength points and no goals. Head coach Todd Reirden noticed the top line was struggling on Monday and started shuffling things up, playing Ovechkin with Evgeny Kuznetsov and Tom Wilson late in the game. “Obviously, those prior lines were very successful for us for a while there,” Reirden said. “That’s the ebbs and flows of the season. We have to look at making an adjustment there and continue to figure out what works best for us on a given night.” Is this just a slump for that top trio that Reirden should allow them to play through? Perhaps. Ovechkin, Backstrom and Oshie are all talented players, so it is fair to believe that finding their production is more a matter of when and not if. Then again, perhaps not. One thing that jumps out when watching Ovechkin, Backstrom and Oshie play is that this is a line that lacks speed. That’s not to say any of those three players are particularly slow, but as a line they lack the game- changing speed that has become so crucial in today’s NHL. I do not believe it is a coincidence that Ovechkin’s worst drought of the season has suddenly come with this line combination. Even when the top line was cycling through right wings during Wilson’s suspension, Ovechkin was still finding ways to get the puck into the back of the net. The Caps found tremendous success last season when Ovechkin began playing with Kuznetsov and Wilson. Putting that line back together would not only bring Kuznetsov’s speed to the top line, but it would also put Backstrom and Oshie with Jakub Vrana, another speedy forward making both lines more versatile than the ones we have seen of late. We know those lines can be successful together because we have already seen it when the competition was at its absolute best last season in the 2018 playoffs. While Backstrom has been the more consistent center this season over Kuznetsov, it may be time to reunite the top line that dominated the postseason last year. 1123947 Winnipeg Jets much lately (he scored only three goals in December) and has been more noticeable for his giveaways than anything else on the ice.

That goal, his 24th of the season, could be just the thing to get Laine JETS SNAPSHOTS: Lemieux a difference-maker in win over Oilers going again, but right now he believes there are more important things than just scoring to focus on. Ted WymanMore from Ted Wyman “I always want to score but I think my game is still not at that level that I want it to be,” Laine said. “It doesn’t matter if I’m scoring or not, I’m still worrying about the overall game and picture. EDMONTON — Brendan Lemieux sure made his opportunity count. “Right now I’ve just got to work to skate harder and play overall good hockey and the success will come after that. I’ve just to try to work hard, The rookie left-winger returned to the Winnipeg Jets lineup after two try to play good defence. I think that’s what everybody in this locker room games in the press box and made a big impression in helping the team is expecting from each other. I always try as hard as I can, try to shoot as end its two-game losing streak. many pucks as I can and play good hockey with my linemates.” He scored twice, including the winning goal with 5:58 left in the third Laine scored 18 of his 24 goals in the month of November. period of a 4-3 victory over the Edmonton Oilers. FOURTH-LINE PRAISE “It felt great,” Lemieux said. “It’s good to be a difference-maker. I thought our line played really well tonight. It’s the first time we’ve had that Maurice loved the fact that it was the third and fourth lines driving the dynamic with (Andrew Copp) in the middle and (Jack Roslovic) on the Jets on Monday night, making up for the fact that some of the top scorers wing. I loved our game. We’ve got some stuff we can clean up but I was on the team have hit a dry spell. really happy with our line tonight.” “They won us the game in a lot of ways,” Maurice said. “It’s paramount. On the winning goal, Lemieux tipped home a point shot from Joe Morrow. You cannot ask Mark Scheifele’s line and (Bryan) Little’s to do that all year. They’re going to have their dry spells. They’ve won us a bunch of “Text-book snap back draw from (Copp) and then a perfect shot from games there in mid-December where they were just dominant but you (Morrow),” Lemieux said. “He just put it in an area and I was able to get a can’t expect that. Nobody scores 90 goals in the league. Those guys, stick on it.” they need help. And it’s good for your bench. Everybody almost enjoys it more when a fourth-line guy scores. So it was good for those guys His first goal was more of the greasy variety. He poked a loose puck past tonight.” Oilers goalie Mikko Koskinen after Copp worked it into the crease and had several chances to bat it home. Winnipeg Sun LOADED 01.02.2019 “(Copp and Roslovic) were both battling,” Lemieux said. “I was fresh off the bench, so I was just trying to hide behind the play and then I just figured ‘This is not where I score my goals … I’ve got to get to the paint,’ so I did that. The puck was bouncing around like crazy I was able to get a whack at it right before the whistle blew and it crawled across the line.” Jets coach Paul Maurice inserted Lemieux into the lineup in place of speedy rookie winger Mason Appleton, who had a goal and an assist in 14 games. HELLEBUYCK HITS 100 Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck earned his 100th career NHL victory, making 21 saves against the Oilers. His biggest, by far, came in the final minute, with the Jets leading by one, off of Oilers’ sharp-shooter Leon Draisaitl, who was gunning for a hat trick. The scoring chance came after Oilers centre Ryan Nugent-Hopkins emerged from a scrum behind the net with the puck and feathered a backhand pass to Draisaitl on the door-step to the side of Hellebuyck. Draisaitl thought he had a sure goal, but Hellebuyck read the play and snagged the one-timer with his glove, prompting Draisaitl to hold his stick over his head and look to the sky in disbelief. “I needed to make my mark somehow,” Hellebuyck said. “The guys were playing so well in front of me and to have that game tied was not the way I wanted it to go. I knew I needed to make my mark and I knew he was going to be back door because I couldn’t find him anywhere else. When (Nugent-Hopkins) got on the backhand I kind of assumed he was going there and he did.” The Jets skaters certainly appreciated the stop. “It’s a game-saver,” Wheeler said. “We expect that out of him. Those are the saves that ultimately we’re gonna need if we want to get to where we want to go. That was the game right there. He saved it for us.” It was Hellebuyck’s third chance to get his 100th NHL win and it’s a number he’s proud of. “I knew I had been chasing it for a while,” he said. “I kind of forgot about it for a moment. I don’t know … I’m really excited, I’m glad it’s with this group of guys and it just says a lot that this team has been built together. I’m very grateful to be a part of it.” LAINE LOOKS TO PICK IT UP You won’t get any argument from Patrik Laine if you suggest he hasn’t been playing his best hockey lately. Though he scored a goal — on a power play laser beam — in last Saturday’s loss to the Minnesota Wild, he hasn’t been on the scoreboard 1123948 Winnipeg Jets

Jets looking forward to hosting Flames in Heritage Classic next season in Regina

Ted WymanMore from Ted Wyman

For the second time in four seasons, the Winnipeg Jets will play in the Heritage Classic outdoor game in 2019-20. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman announced Tuesday that the Jets will host the Calgary Flames at Mosaic Stadium in Regina — home of the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders — on Oct. 26 of this year. The Jets hosted the Edmonton Oilers in the Heritage Classic in October of 2016 at Investors Group Field and lost 3-0. “They’re great,” Jets coach Paul Maurice said Tuesday of the outdoor games put on annually by the NHL. “(We) really enjoyed the first one. Especially since it’s in Canada, it’s in a market that doesn’t get NHL played there for them, so it should be an enthusiastic crowd. We’ll all be looking forward to it.” When the Jets played the Oilers in the 2016 outdoor game, there was a great deal of fanfare around the game, with alumni from both teams involved, including Oilers legends Wayne Gretzky and and Jets all-time greats Dale Hawerchuk and Teemu Selanne. The alumni game was the most memorable part for Maurice. “More for me would be the alumni game because the other part is just a hockey game in some ways,” Maurice said. “The crowd, all those stars on the ice and I’m five years old … I’m a fan, I’m just a kid, right? And there’s all those guys who I watched play, and then the crowd. I know how much the people here in Winnipeg really appreciated the weekend and thought it was a good glimpse of the connection between Winnipeg Jet fans and their hockey team. They love the sport. They appreciate players that played here 20 years ago, 30 years ago and then the players now.” The game will be played at the 33,000-seat Mosaic Stadium, which opened in 2017. It’s expected that the WHL’s Regina Pats will look to play an outdoor game at the stadium in conjunction with the Heritage Classic. Other details surrounding the game have yet to be announced. The Jets announced they will be the home team for the game, meaning they will give up a home game for the second straight year, after taking part in the Global Series in Finland this season. Maurice hopes the Jets will fare better than they did last time, getting shut out by the Oilers. “I don’t think the outdoor game has to be that big of a distraction,” Maurice said. “A little bit of maturity on our team and now we’ve played in some of these events — we did the Heritage game, went to Finland for a game. I like it as part of your schedule … a little bit of a break and a change is as good as a rest sometimes. This will be good. I don’t know how many guys have spent much time in Regina. They won’t have experienced this before and probably not again so we’re looking forward to it.” Winnipeg Sun LOADED 01.02.2019 1123949 Winnipeg Jets between Lemieux and Jack Roslovic). I thought they had a great night. They were all over the puck and even when they didn’t get rewarded, I thought they played a real strong game. Obviously a huge boost, Jets captain Wheeler far from satisfied after his team’s impressive year (Lemieux) picks up two goals and a big game-winner.” If 2019 brings more of the same, the Jets will surely be a post-season team, quite possibly with home-ice advantage throughout the Western Ted WymanMore from Ted Wyman Conference playoffs. As for Wheeler being satisfied? EDMONTON — After his team closed out 2018 with a well-earned 4-3 That will only happen if the Jets’ last game is a win in June. victory over the Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets captain Blake Wheeler’s answer to a big picture question pretty much summed up what he has in Winnipeg Sun LOADED 01.02.2019 mind for 2019. An Edmonton-based reporter ran through a list of impressive things that happened to the Jets in 2018 — a second-place overall finish, a trip the conference final and a spot in first place in their devision after the last game of the year. “You must be pretty satisfied?” the reporter prompted. “No,” Wheeler said, emphatically. “Definitely it’s been a good building year for our club and a great learning experience last spring. We’re definitely headed in the right direction but we still have things to learn. We’re still one of the youngest teams in the league. That being said, we have a lot to like, a lot to build on and a lot to be excited about going into 2019.” The Jets clearly have bigger goals than to just make it to the Western Conference final. They believe they have a team that can win the Stanley Cup, with players like Wheeler, Mark Scheifele and Dustin Byfuglien in their primes and a host of young players with all kinds of skill. They’ve produced on the ice in the first half of the NHL season, racking up 25 wins and 52 points, which is good enough for first place in the tough Central Division. And yet, something hasn’t seemed quite right with this team all season. It rarely seems to fire on all cylinders and has played in such a fashion that some fans have a hard time taking it seriously as a Cup contender. A stretch of three straight games in which the Jets scored only one goal will do that. So will generally average goaltending from 2017-18 Vezina Trophy finalist Connor Hellebuyck. So will scoring droughts for players like Kyle Connor, Patrik Laine and Bryan Little. All those things are cause for some concern, but there’s also the very positive way of seeing this: The Jets are in first place despite not putting it all together yet this season. Are they right where they want to be? No. But do they have the goods to get there? Yes. “I think we have a lot of big things to work on and because we have such a young team, there’s a lot to learn,” Jets coach Paul Maurice said. “But we are pleased that while we’re on this process of kind of developing these young players, we’ve been able to win a bunch of hockey games. We have good leadership on our top end, our veteran group can drive a game.” The Jets certainly appeared to get back on track on New Year’s Eve against a desperate Oilers team that had lost five straight games and made a couple of trades on Sunday to try to end the slump. Winnipeg had lost two straight games as well, but after a slow start on Monday night, they were clearly the better team for the final 50 minutes. Getting two big goals from rookie fourth-liner Brendan Lemieux, another from Wheeler and one from third-liner Brandon Tanev, the Jets earned full marks for the win. They outshot the Oilers 36-24 and generated 68 shot attempts, meaning their offensive zone time was considerable. Yes, it took a last minute glove save by Connor Hellebuyck off hat trick- seeking Leon Draisaitl to preserve the win, but it would have been a travesty if the game had gone to overtime, given how badly the Jets outplayed the Oilers over the final two periods. They broke out of their recent scoring slump with contributions from their bottom-six players and defencemen Jacob Trouba and Joe Morrow, who came out of the press box to fill in for the injured Byfuglien. Trouba’s point shot was tipped in by Tanev for the Jets first goal and Morrow’s shot was re-directed by Lemieux for the game-winner with 5:58 left in the third period. “That’s what a team is, production throughout your lineup, guys stepping up,” Wheeler said. “It’s great to get a boost from that line (Andrew Copp 1123950 Vancouver Canucks Pettersson and Brock Boeser, needs to clear waivers in order to be sent to the American Hockey League.

Sutter’s return will mean someone is either put on waivers or is traded. Patrick Johnston: Thrill of playing in front of friends and family never fades for Canucks The most obvious options are probably two defencemen currently sitting out as healthy scratches — Alex Biega and Michael Del Zotto.

Del Zotto, who is an unrestricted free agent in the summer, is assuredly Patrick Johnston More from Patrick Johnston unhappy about his lack of playing time. Biega, on the other hand, has always been solid in his role as a seventh defenceman. KANATA, Ont. — Two Vancouver Canucks blueliners will return home They also have an extra forward in Tim Schaller, though it looked Wednesday at the Canadian Tire Centre. Tuesday like there was a good chance the winger would draw back into the lineup, possibly at the expense of Nikolay Goldobin. Erik Gudbranson grew up in Ottawa. Ben Hutton hails from Prescott, about an hour’s drive south of Kanata, Ont., the home of the Senators’ Goldobin could conceivably be a candidate for a move, but he’s also the rink. team’s fourth-leading scorer. And while the blue line partners have played in Ottawa plenty of times Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.02.2019 before, both said returning to the nation’s capital always adds a skip and a jump to their stride. “It’s always so much fun. Pretty much everybody who was with you, from where it started, gets to come out, have a beer and enjoy,” Gudbranson said after the Canucks held a short-but-spirited practice on Tuesday. “You want to impress friends and family,” he said. “For me it’s having my mom and dad in the stands, it’s just like when you were a kid, you want to impress them.” It’s also a chance for friends and family to get an up close look. When he played in Florida, Gudbranson’s games were in the same time zone, making for easy TV viewing, plus he’d visit twice a year. But playing in Vancouver means most of his games now start at 10 p.m. here, too late for most. The story of how Hutton remade himself over the summer, changing his diet, working out like he never had before, has already been told. And with the 25 year old’s new-found fitness leading to the prominent role he’s played this season — after last year’s dog of a campaign — it’s safe to say he’s looking forward to playing in front of family and friends too. Hutton admitted he doesn’t know exactly how many people are coming to watch on Wednesday “50, 60,” he guessed. Family and friends have travelled up by the busload in the past. His first National Hockey League game with the Canucks in Ottawa in 2015 saw a cheering section of fans numbering in the triple digits. The crew may not be as big this year, but getting to play in front of the people who have supported you for so long still gives Hutton a thrill. “The last year was obviously one of my tougher years of playing hockey. To turn it around, to be in the lineup regularly, it’s been good, it’s turned my confidence around,” he said. “I’m going to try my best to put a little performance on. I saw some of my buddies last night and they said they wanted a nice performance so hopefully we’ll give it to them.” There is one benefit to now making just one annual visit home, Gudbranson joked. “You only have to deal with the whole ticket fiasco once.” Sutter nearing return Brandon Sutter took part in another practice. The checking centre has been on the road trip and is clearly nearing a return. “He’s getting close,” Canucks coach Travis Green said Tuesday. “Every day he’s doing some more battling drills, we’ll push him again tomorrow. He’s a possibility for the road trip. He wouldn’t be here if he wasn’t.” With back to back games here and then Thursday in Montreal, it always seemed unlikely that Sutter would be activated to play for Wednesday’s game, with Green having suggested in the past he’d rather not have players returning from injury play two games in two nights. So perhaps he dresses Thursday against the Canadiens. Or maybe Green and his staff wait for the final game of the road trip, Saturday in Toronto, for Sutter to play his first game since separating his shoulder at the end of October. Whenever it is that he returns, the Canucks will have to make a roster move. Every Canuck on the current roster, with the exception of Elias 1123951 Vancouver Canucks Why, though, are the Sharks deliberating on extending Karlsson to begin with? This should be an easy decision, at least on their part, right?

It likely has to do with Karlsson’s struggles, perceived or otherwise, in the Fixing the Canucks in free agency: Improving defence and goaltending immediate aftermath of the trade that sent him to San Jose. While the underlying data for Karlsson was as sharp as ever, the points didn’t come quite as often as they once did for the two-time Norris winning By JD Burke Jan 1, 2019 26 defenceman. Compounding matters was the fact that Karlsson just didn’t seem to enjoy being there to start the season, too. That’s the impression I was left with upon reading this part of Athletic colleague Kevin Kurz’s Sharks Mailbag article from December. As the draft gave way to free agency and free agency to the doldrums of summer, it became increasingly clear that the Canucks were going to do “Frankly, there were times throughout the first month that he just looked the unthinkable. They were going to bring back the same eight miserable out there. I can vividly recall a moment at the end of the defencemen from a roster that finished 27th-place in a season prior. second period in Carolina on Oct. 26 when Karlsson turned the puck over twice on the same shift, perhaps due to his teammates not being ready, The Canucks, it seemed, were banking on internal improvement. It and was shown on television gliding back towards the bench with an seemed as likely as a dry November in Vancouver. Defencemen tend to angry, annoyed look on his face.” peak in their age-24 or 25 seasons, and this was a group with an average age north of 27 years old. Probability wasn’t on their side. In the interests of fairness and painting the most accurate picture, Kurz qualified on both ends by adding that Karlsson seems to be having a As this group nears the midway mark of the season, though, the much better time of it both on and off the ice in San Jose of late. Canucks’ defencemen have combined to add the 18th-most wins in the NHL as a unit according to the WAR (Wins Above Replacement) model Should Karlsson make it to free agency, the Canucks are going to be one that the EvolvingWild twins have developed, as graphed by Sean Tierney of many teams lined up outside his agent’s office. on his Tableau profile. They’ve done so with Christopher Tanev playing some of the worst hockey of his NHL career. It’s three spots higher than The arrival of Elias Pettersson is pushing the Canucks’ core to critical their rank a season prior. mass, and that makes them a more attractive option in free agency than they have been in years past. The arrival of Quinn Hughes — who Table created on Sean Tierney’s Tableau profile wouldn’t want to be his defensive partner? — will help, too. If you don’t have to worry about exorbitant rent costs — and I suspect Karlsson won’t It’s as close to the best-case scenario as the Canucks’ front office could — Vancouver is a hell of a place to live, too. have reasonably hoped for in the offseason, and it barely puts them in the middle of the pack. The group improved but it doesn’t even matter. Players like Karlsson don’t often make it to free agency. The word For Vancouver to take that next step, significant improvements on the “generational” gets thrown around a lot these days, but in the case of blueline are essential. Karlsson, there is no denying his bona fides as just that. While the addition of Quinn Hughes offers the comfort of a cost-free Since Karlsson broke out in the 2011-12 season, the 16.4 wins in value addition in the not-so-distant future, it could be met with two steps back in that he’s added to San Jose and Ottawa’s respective lineups ranks fourth the form of Alexander Edler’s departure or continued age-related decline among all defencemen. Karlsson has the most points by a defenceman and to a lesser degree similar circumstances for Tanev. since entering the NHL with 548 in 665 games played. One could say the same of the Canucks’ situation in net. Jacob There is a perception among some that Karlsson is struggling or has Markstrom is playing the best hockey of his life. The list of goaltenders struggled in San Jose this season. It’s easy enough to understand this who’ve played better through December is a short one. Some have criticism. His current 65 points per 82 games pace would be his lowest pointed to adjustments in Markstrom’s game made under the tutelage of total since his second NHL season. Ian Clark, who is in his first year as the Canucks’ goalie coach. Banking on a goaltender with a career save percentage of .908 to find himself at Between the lessened point totals and the fact that Karlsson will be 29 by 28 seems an unnecessarily risky proposition, though. the end of the season, some are starting to wonder if age-related decline is on the horizon. It doesn’t help matters that Karlsson had a tough time As the fiery Irishman Brian Burke (no relation) so often said, Stanley Cup recovering from a broken foot last season, even looking visibly hobbled champions are built from the net out. One can lay the foundation through by the injury at times. the draft, but they’re going to need additional support as the aspirations get higher and higher. For the Canucks this offseason, the best avenue These factors are worth considering. Should Karlsson make it to free to find such insulation is going to come in free agency. agency, there’s no way he’s signing for fewer than the maximum seven years. That will take Karlsson to his age-36 season. There are only 12 We’ve been looking at ways that the Canucks can fix themselves in free defencemen aged 35 or older who have played a game this season. agency this week at The Athletic Vancouver. It started on Wednesday with Wyatt Arndt’s exploration of the mistakes of yesteryear and how one I’m just not confident that there are any indicators of Karlsson slowing might learn from those experiences; Ryan Biech followed that up on down at present in his play. In fact, this might be some of his best work Thursday with free agent options to improve the penalty kill. yet. Today I’m looking at ways that the Canucks can improve their team Numbers shown are 5-on-5. Data are drawn from the indispensable defence on the blueline and in net. Evolving-Hockey Erik Karlsson (RD — San Jose Sharks) The question for the Canucks is whether everything Karlsson brings to the table through the first three or four years of any contract will be worth Let’s get the obvious out of the way, why don’t we? You’re all here, at incurring the risk associated with years five, six, and seven. They can least in part, to check in on the likelihood of the Canucks landing afford Karlsson in the short-term assuming he holds up his end of the Karlsson, and if that happens, what type of an impact it will have on the bargain. Whether that remains consistent till the bitter end is another short- and long-term fortunes of your favourite team. The VIP always question entirely. comes first at The Athletic Vancouver, so let’s do this. For a team with a dearth of prospect depth on the right side, Karlsson Had we crossed this bridge a month or two prior, it’s hard to imagine a could make sense. The Canucks aren’t ready to turn the corner yet, but scenario where Karlsson qualifies for this list. The Sharks had just they have to be soon with players like Pettersson, Brock Boeser, Bo acquired him, and while the price they paid had a distinct Boxing Day Horvat, Quinn Hughes, etc. either on entry-level deals or in team- feel, it was still costly — if you save $10,000 on a Rolls Royce, all the controlled seasons. Karlsson is a positive step toward that end. power to you but it’s still going to put a dent in your finances. Now imagine letting that Rolls Royce drive out of your garage a year later with Anton Stralman (RD — Tampa Bay Lightning) nothing to show for it but the debt incurred on its original cost. There might not be a better value grab in this year’s crop of free agents Yet most of what I’ve heard of the Karlsson situation since suggests the than Tampa Bay Lightning defender Anton Stralman. The long-time possibility of the generational defenceman doing just that are very real. favourite of the statistically inclined is in the fifth and final year of a contract he signed as an unrestricted free agent to join Tampa that It’s unlikely that any clarity will emerge from the Karlsson-Sharks saga carries a meagre $4.5-million cap charge annually. anytime soon. Though the two sides can agree to a contract as of the new year, it would be restricted to a seven-season maximum. From Feb. Barring some significant moves on the part of Lightning general manager 25 onward, Karlsson will be eligible for an eight-year deal. Once that Julien BriseBois, it seems unlikely that they’ll be able to keep Stralman in deadline passes, the clock starts ticking. tow. The Lightning have a little under $10-million in wiggle room against the cap and still have to find a way to lock up or replace players like Brayden Point, Braydon Coburn and Cedric Paquette, among others. a second-pair right-handed defenceman. Such a player would add value Money’s tight. to the Canucks’ lineup. This much isn’t in doubt. That’s not the case in Vancouver. Certainly not in the short term. The There’s less certainty in whether Myers will be able to add value Canucks are about as well-positioned as anyone in the NHL to make corresponding with his price tag. Myers is going to be 29 when he hits bets in the two- or three-year range this summer. free agency, and general managers tend to covet his blend of physical strength, size and skating ability. The cost could get out of hand. But make no mistake, logistical convenience isn’t the only feather in Stralman’s cap where the Canucks are concerned. Based on where he is If Myers can’t live up to his price in year one, and that’s a distinct today, Stralman could feasibly join this team and jump straight to the top possibility, what happens as he starts to age into his mid-thirties? The of their depth chart on the right side of that blueline. last time Myers had a positive WAR over a full season of hockey was more than eight seasons ago. Players don’t tend to get better in their You won’t find the evidence for such a claim looking at Stralman’s thirties. There’s a lot of risk associated with making this bet. counting stats. His 27 points per 82 games pace through parts of 11 seasons is fine in its own right, don’t get me wrong, but they belie the Sergei Bobrovsky (G — Columbus Blue Jackets) totality of his contributions at both ends of the ice. If the Canucks go for a goaltender this offseason, it’s going to be Sergei For starters, the Lightning score a lot of goals with Stralman on the ice. Bobrovsky. Colleague Jason Botchford already connected Vancouver to Since joining the Lightning, Stralman’s presence on the ice has coincided the two-time Vezina trophy winner; I’ve already written about the many with nearly three goals per hour at 5-on-5. We can safely attribute some factors for Canucks’ management to consider in making this decision. of that to team effects — the Lightning score a lot — but that mark is better than all but six Canucks’ skaters this season. The reasons are obvious. There probably hasn’t been a goalie of Bobrovsky’s quality hit the market in the salary cap era. It’s been a year It’s the defensive side of the game where Stralman truly shines. Among of ups and downs for Bobrovsky in Columbus, but he’s still among the Lightning defencemen with 1,000 or more minutes played since the league’s elite at stopping the puck. Here’s what I wrote about Bobrovsky 2014-15 season, only Matthieu Carle bested the 2.06 goals against per back in November. hour rate that the Lightning surrendered with Stralman on the ice. That success is consistent for Stralman no matter how refined the metric. Before the emergence of John Gibson of Anaheim, it was Bobrovsky who held the mantle as the NHL’s best goaltender, and he did so for a sizable Numbers shown are 5-on-5. chunk of time. Bobrovsky’s .937 save percentage at 5-on-5 over the last three season is the best rate among goaltenders with 1,000 or more The big question is how much longer will Stralman be able to maintain minutes in that stretch. The 48.6 GSAA to Bobrovsky’s credit also ranks this level of play or something close to it. There are already some signs first, nine-plus goals ahead of Pekka Rinne in second place. of age-related decline, though I’d caution against determining them conclusive given Stralman’s relatively small sample of 22 games this This is a point I won’t linger on. The Canucks’ interest in Bobrovsky is season. well-established, and we’ve covered that ground fairly extensively to date in this space. It’s going to come down to cost. If Bobrovsky continues to If the Canucks — or whichever team signs Stralman this summer — can struggle, then the Canucks can likely have him at a discounted rate. secure another two or even three good seasons out of Stralman, that’s a Then again, if Bobrovsky continues to struggle, at what point does win. And based on his relatively advanced age, it seems likely that two or management worry about age-related decline considering what’s three years is precisely the type of bet a team will have to make with happened to other star goaltenders as they hit their thirties? Stralman. It’s hard to imagine a scenario with more term attached to it. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Tyler Myers (RD — Winnipeg Jets) Just ask a Winnipeg Jets fan or analyst what exactly Tyler Myers brings to the table, and you’re likely to get a different answer each time. The consistent thread, however, will be one of disappointment. Everyone is left wanting more. Watch enough Jets’ games, and it’s easy enough to understand. Myers is blessed with a unique combination of height (6-foot-8 according to CapFriendly) and skating ability that you won’t often find elsewhere. When Myers is at his best, he can take over hockey games. At Myers’ worst, he can look completely lost out there. Winnipeg has seen much more of the latter this season, which plays a role in why I’d expect Myers is all but gone on July 1. At first glance, one can’t help but wonder if Myers is the victim of bad bounces. That is so often the case when a player expected to put up offence doesn’t, and the market turns on them. Myers, who has just 10 points to show for his 38 games this season, strikes me as a player that might fit this profile. The fact that the Jets, an offensively dominant team at 5-on-5, are only scoring on 6.9 percent of their shots at 5-on-5 with Myers on the ice jumps out. If nothing else, that explains why the personal production isn’t there for Myers at present. Hell, it even helps explain why the Jets owe to a score-adjusted, on-ice goal differential of -6.56, too. Numbers shown are 5-on-5. What I find more concerning is the overall body of work that Myers has built during his time in Winnipeg. The frustration seems justified based on these key metrics that I so often lean on for evaluating a player’s two-way impact. In so many respects, the Jets did a better job of controlling play at 5-on-5 when Myers was on the bench. You’ll note, though, that Myers GAR (Goals Above Replacement) rating came out above even. When I see something like this, my first move is to look at a player’s most common linemates. For Myers, that player has been Dmitri Kulikov — someone not exactly renowned for their ability to control play at 5-on-5. And to Myers’ credit, his numbers improve away from Kulikov whereas Kulikov’s suffer in the absence of Myers. Seems like a complicated player, right? There isn’t really a rhyme or reason to Myers’ overall impact. At best, one could comfortably label him 1123952 Vancouver Canucks SOG LEADERS THROUGH THE ROUND ROBIN: EVAN BARRATT 20 Who are the top draft-eligible prospects at this year’s world juniors? And EMIL BEMSTROM 20 how could they help the Canucks? OWEN TIPPETT 19

ADAM BOQVIST 17 By Ryan Biech Jan 1, 2019 10 QUINN HUGHES 17

KAAPO KAKKO 17 The always-entertaining world junior championship’s medal round begins Wednesday with a slate of games that will have fans glued to their TVs. PHILIPP KURASHEV 17 It’s been a fantastic start to the tournament culminating with thrilling New EELI TOLVANEN 17 Year’s Eve contests that saw Russia top Canada 2-1 in Vancouver while — COREY PRONMAN (@COREYPRONMAN) JANUARY 1, 2019 the United States beat Finland 4-1 in Victoria. It’s also worth adding that Kakko can play centre — including at this Generally, the world juniors is a showcase for 19-year-olds as players in tournament — which is a valuable attribute during the long grind of the their draft-plus-one or draft-plus-two years take on larger roles for their NHL season. There are some minor concerns regarding his defensive respective countries. But this year’s tournament has had some really play on the wing but nothing that should be of too much worry. intriguing players that are still eligible for the 2019 NHL entry draft. As such, it’s been a good opportunity to scout some of the up-and-coming BETTER ANGLE OF THE KAAPO KAKKO ASSIST FROM TODAY: players who could one day be donning NHL jerseys. PIC.TWITTER.COM/KQXA3HLJAV We can’t predict what’s going to happen over the next few months for the — THE RANGRES, FAN OF (@DRAFTLOOK) DECEMBER 30, 2018 Canucks, or if the draft lottery will fail them once again, but in watching this event, I can’t help but wonder if any of these players will be wearing How he could help the Canucks: He would give the Canucks a fantastic a Canucks jersey in late June after being selected by the organization. 1-2 punch on the right side with Boeser. Plus, his ability to play down the middle would mean if the injury bug hits, he can slide to centre. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the top prospects at this year’s tournament and imagine how they might help the Canucks if they Kakko controls the play with ease and would be a complementary player were drafted by the team. to Horvat and Pettersson. He’s primarily a playmaker but has a wicked shot that can beat goalies clean. Lastly, he isn’t afraid to grind it out in Jack Hughes (USA – Centre) the offensive zone to create offence in dirty areas. The presumed first overall selection in the upcoming draft has been Anttoni Honka (Finland – Defence) limited to one game this tournament due to an undisclosed injury. There are few details about what is ailing Hughes, but he was at the receiving A late add to the Finnish roster, Anttoni Honka is a defenceman who end of a big hit in a game against the Czech Republic in pre-tournament loves having the puck on his stick. competition, so I’m curious if there is any connection to that. Measuring in at 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds, Honka is on the smaller side But we didn’t really need to see Hughes play at this event to understand but is so elusive with the puck that there shouldn’t be too much concern how talented he is. about his ability to generate offence through transition. He isn’t afraid to rush the puck through all three zones. That being said, with players of his The 17-year-old American centre is a dynamic playmaker who can create ilk, when he’s caught by an opponent in transition, it can look really bad. lanes for himself through his speed and puck-handling ability. He can Still, he succeeds in this area infinitely more than he fails. draw opponents toward him then spot his wide-open teammate for scoring chances. There is a multitude of reasons why he’s the most-likely He had a really strong performance last April at the under-18 world first overall selection in the 2019 draft and even an unhealthy showing at championships with five assists in seven games. He has appeared in 15 this tournament would give little reason to expect otherwise. games this season. In 35 Liiga games spread over this season and last, Honka has three goals and 10 assists. If Hughes can get back into the lineup before the tournament ends though, expect him to make an immediate impact on Team USA’s GREAT STUFF FROM ANTTONI HONKA. TAKES HIS TIME, DOESN’T offensive attack. They’ve done well without him, finishing second to FORCE ANYTHING, AND EVENTUALLY GETS THE CONTROLLED Sweden in Group B, but there is little doubt that they miss him as one of EXIT. SHOWS OFF HIS ABILITY TO ESCAPE PRESSURE. NOT HIS their top centres. FAULT THE FORWARDS TURNED THE PUCK OVER. PIC.TWITTER.COM/IWLW1KFUTR How he could help the Canucks: Assuming everything continues the way it is, the Canucks are well positioned down the middle with Elias — THE RANGRES, FAN OF (@DRAFTLOOK) JANUARY 1, 2019 Pettersson, Bo Horvat and Adam Gaudette expected to be their 1-2-3 Based on the latest consolidated rankings, Honka is projected to be the centres for the foreseeable future. But you can’t pass up on a talent like 20th overall selection and has the dynamic tools to be that new-age Hughes. When he is on his game, he is an electrifying player who can defenceman NHL teams are suddenly coveting. create offensive opportunities at ease and makes everyone around him play at a different speed. How he could help the Canucks: There’s little doubt that the right side of the Canucks’ defensive prospect pool is the weaker of the two and there If the Canucks are somehow in a position to draft Hughes, then their is still plenty of work to be done in that area. With the selection of Quinn centre depth becomes an even bigger strength for the organization. It Hughes this past year, it’s clear the Canucks aren’t wary of the smaller could prompt the team to explore trades or move someone like defenceman but that also presents a different issue: Can you have two 5- Pettersson to the wing. Who knows what will happen, but adding Hughes foot-10 puck-rushing defencemen in your top six? (Not to mention would load the Canucks with elite offensive talent. someone like Troy Stecher being around.) Kaapo Kakko (Finland – RW) That is an important part of the equation when building a blueline but at At the moment, there is some discussion that Kakko can push Hughes as some point in the draft, Honka will clearly be the best player available the first overall draft pick, and that is in large part due to how well Kakko and you can’t pass up on an offensive talent like his. However, he might has played in Liiga this season. With 20 points in 27 Liiga games, Kakko not be where the Canucks are selecting anyway unless they add more is an impact player in Finland’s top league as a 17-year-old. Many picks. observers are suggesting he’s the best offensive prospect to come out of Philip Broberg (Sweden – Defence) Finland since Aleksander Barkov. For reference, Barkov scored 0.90 points per game (PPG) for Tappara in his draft year (2012-13) compared A quick riser in the draft rankings since his standout performance at the to Kakko’s 0.74 PPG pace. Ivan Hlinka tournament in August, Swedish defenceman Philip Broberg made the national team due to Timothy Liljegren being unable to go. Kakko is a strong winger who can do everything in the offensive zone. He’s willing to be a power winger and use his strong frame to his The biggest thing that stands out in Broberg’s game is his skating and his advantage or be a skilled playmaker, while also never passing up the ability to use that to create in transition. At 6-foot-3 and 198 pounds, chance to take a shot. Through the preliminary round, Kakko is tied with Broberg appears much bigger than he is because he uses his long Eeli Tolvanen for the most shots on the Finnish team: strides and agility to move up the ice with ease, as long as there is the space to do so. We saw at Ivan Hlinka that he could create a lane on the After quietly securing a spot on Finland’s back-end, Heinola has been outside and then drive the net when the opportunity was afforded to him. playing around 12-15 minutes a game and has posted one goal and one That won’t happen as much in the professional ranks, and we are seeing assist. that in the Allsvenskan this season. Heinola is a very good skater with a strong work ethic and defensive Skating is king right now, so it’s no wonder why so many people are on zone play. He limits opponents’ chances by guiding them away from the Broberg bandwagon but tempered expectations for him are likely danger zones, stripping them of the puck and then moving it out of the needed. After scoring those three goals at the Ivan Hlinka, Broberg has zone with a great first pass. There are some concerns about his strength, been unable to register one in 27 games with AIK. His two-way game but he is a 17-year-old kid who will add muscle mass as he ages. Add in and the use of his size makes him a really intriguing prospect, but he isn’t the fact that he is just a smart player who makes the right decision in all the best defenceman in the draft. His ranking of 15th in the consolidated three zones, and his lack of strength can be seen as something that will rankings is a digestible landing spot for him. improve in time. How he could help the Canucks: If you have a concern about Honka’s He is a regular for Lukko, which is always an encouraging sign for a size but like his skating and puck transition skills, Broberg is a decent player in their draft year. He has posted one goal and five assists in 23 alternative. He may not have the same offensive ceiling as Honka but it’s games at Finland’s top level. fair to believe that Broberg will carve out a role in the NHL. He comes with less risk than Honka. His rapid ascension from last year to now also He isn’t as dynamic as Honka or Broberg but he is such a cerebral player means he may take a few years before making the leap over to North that he seems destined to be a defender in the NHL. He has been America, so patience is required with him. playing with Henri Jokiharju as a safety net this tournament and doing quite well in the role. Broberg is a left-handed defender who primarily plays the left side, so he would add more depth to a deep prospect pool on that side that includes How he could help the Canucks: In no way am I suggesting that Heinola Hughes and Olli Juolevi. is a first-round talent, nor an early second-round player at this point but that could change between now and June. Given that an NHL club Vasili Podkolzin (Russia – LW/RW) retains his rights for four years after drafting him, a team could take him and send him back to Finland’s elite league to add strength and play big The Russian winger can do everything on the ice, and when he is on his minutes. He could be a great two-way defender on the left side beside a game, he can dictate play. more offensively-inclined right side defenceman. It’s all about constantly Despite being limited to one assist thus far, Podkolzin has had some improving every position whenever possible and Heinola hasn’t shown flashes of dynamic play that leaves fans anticipating his next shift. He anything to indicate he won’t be a good prospect. isn’t afraid to mix it up, get under the opposition’s skin and play chippy In this year’s world juniors, there are so many draft-eligible prospects it hockey. For example, when Jakub Lauko had a dangerous cross-check can be hard to narrow down the list to just a few. on him early in the game between the Czech Republic and Russia, it led to the two of them shoving in the handshake line after the game. Most of the players I listed here are top prospects for the upcoming draft, while someone like Heinola is more of a “keep an eye out for his name Podkolzin has the ability to be a great playmaker by holding onto the on draft day” type. puck, drawing in defenders then feeding open teammates. There is little doubt that this event offers a great chance to see some of VASILI PODKOLZIN (TOP PROSPECT FOR 2019 NHL DRAFT // the draft-eligible players in midseason form and then compare it to their @HCSKA) MAKES A GREAT PLAY TO FEED KIRILL MARCHENKO performance throughout the remainder of the season. As the season (@BLUEJACKETSNHL #49 IN 2018 // @HCSKA) WHO SLAMS HOME winds down and the draft approaches, the scrutiny will get more intense A BEAUTIFUL SHOT TO BRING RUSSIA WITHIN 1! and the discourse will get more heated. #SUI 2 – 1 #RUS PIC.TWITTER.COM/4VJ2TUOUUM For now, however, just enjoy the medal-round games and remember some of these names. — HOCKEY DAILY (@HOCKEYDAILY365) DECEMBER 31, 2018 The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 Podkolzin is more known as a shooter but has such a dynamic offensive skill set that it isn’t fair to label him as simply a shooter. His game is still so raw and he has the occasional mental lapse in his play, making it hard to figure out what he will be. Colleague Scott Wheeler was correct in everything he said about Podkolzin in his November draft rankings and he is right in having some reservations about his game, but Podkolzin is so fun to watch. You can’t help but imagine what he could be if he reaches his ceiling. REALLY LIKE THIS SEQUENCE FROM RW VASILY PODKOLZIN (RANKED NO. 2). PRETTY SELF EXPLANATORY, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU CONSIDER HE'S ONE OF THE YOUNGEST PLAYERS IN THE TOURNAMENT. PIC.TWITTER.COM/3YRKQG4EBF — STEVE KOURNIANOS (@THEDRAFTANALYST) JANUARY 1, 2019 How he could help the Canucks: Put him in your top six and let him do what he does. He would add feistiness, speed, playmaking and scoring prowess to any line he’s on. He would immediately improve the pace of play and excitement level of the game whenever he hops over the boards. It would all come with some concern about his defensive gaffes, however: MARCO LEHMANN IS HAVING A CAREER NIGHT, GIVING SWITZERLAND A 3-1 LEAD. A TERRIBLE PLAY BY VASILI PODKOLZIN RESULTED IN THE GOAL. #WJC2019 PIC.TWITTER.COM/U6RVYNRJPU — STEVEN ELLIS (@STEVENELLISNHL) DECEMBER 31, 2018 But the sum of his play would almost certainly outweigh the cost of those types of errors. (The coaching staff may just need some stress balls on the bench to help them survive it all.) Ville Heinola (Finland – Defence) The most unknown of these prospects is Finnish defenceman Ville Heinola. 1123953 Websites

The Athletic / Q&A: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on 2020 Winter Classic, state of the Stars, and Lites comments

By Sean Shapiro Jan 1, 2019 77

The Dallas Stars were named as hosts of the next Winter Classic on Tuesday. They will host a yet-to-be-named opponent on Jan. 1, 2020 at the Cotton Bowl. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman made the official announcement during the second intermission of the 2019 Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and Boston Bruins at Notre Dame Stadium. After making the announcement, Bettman was made available for a five- minute phone interview with The Athletic Dallas about the 2020 game, the Dallas Stars, and recent comments that dominated the hockey world. Shapiro: Why were the Stars on the NHL’s radar for an event like this? Bettman: We love the fact that the Dallas Stars are doing so well in the community and that the fan base is growing, and we love Tom Gaglardi’s commitment to the team and the city. And we’ve been in discussion with them about events for at least a couple of years. And as another step in visiting iconic facilities, the Cotton Bowl is a logical locale for us to host the game. This is the NHL’s marquee game in a market with unpredictable weather at times. Does that concern you at all when taking the Winter Classic to Texas? Other than rain and sun, we can deal with almost anything else. If this game were scheduled for yesterday (at Notre Dame) we would have been in trouble here, because it poured like crazy all day. So we’ve looked at the weather forecasts, and we’re comfortable that we can create a competitive situation for our teams that are reflective of the fact this is a game that counts in the standings. Does this signal a new era of Winter Classics as far as locale and teams? We’ve constantly tried to focus on unique and special situations, and that speaks to the markets or to iconic venues. In Dallas, we have the benefit of accomplishing both. We are going to a — quote, newer, but it’s really not so new, market — and we’re are going to an iconic venue. We’re putting the Cotton Bowl back in play on New Year’s Day. What do you think about the state of Stars franchise right now? Whether it’s been Tom Gaglardi’s commitment to the team, or to the American Airlines Center, or to the city of Dallas, particularly with the Dr Pepper rinks, this is a team that is committed to the community, is involved in grassroots program and is involved in growing the fan base, whether or not there is the occasional frustration on the ice in terms of performance isn’t how you define a team long term. All the vital signs are great for this franchise for the Stars long term. What about the comments from Jim Lites on Friday? What did you think about them and how it reflects on the Stars? As a general rule, I don’t get involved. If there is a reason where something is so over the line on a repetitive basis, then maybe there is a need for a conversation. But obviously, there is a fair amount of frustration there, both on the management side and on the players’ side. It reflects, more than anything else, a common passion for winning. Whether it’s Tyler or Jamie — and they’ve given so much to the growth of the game in Texas — or whether it’s not the three Jims or Tom, everybody wants better. And I think that common sense of purpose will ultimately be good for the franchise. But this is unprecedented really; for not just hockey, but all sports. Wasn’t this at least shocking? I’m rarely shocked anymore, I’ve been doing this a long time. When I saw it, people can draw their own conclusions as to whether or not somebody in a similar situation would do the same thing. But I think more than anything it speaks to the frustration, of which is everybody wants to be doing better. The Athletic LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123954 Websites For a team that plays so many outdoor games, the Blackhawks certainly don’t fare too well…

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.02.2019 Sportsnet.ca / Best of Winter Classic: Bruins top Blackhawks at Notre Dame Stadium

Emily Sadler | @EmmySadler January 1, 2019, 12:37 PM

Happy New Year, hockey fans. As is tradition, the NHL kicked off a fresh year with a good old game of (professional) shinny on a fresh sheet of outdoor ice. This year’s Winter Classic saw the Boston Bruins host the Chicago Blackhawks in one of football’s most legendary houses, Notre Dame Stadium. We collected some of the best Images, tweets and videos from the Original Six matchup over the course of the afternoon. Notre Dame Stadium, home of The Fighting Irish (and also Rudy), has undergone quite the transformation: A sellout crowd of 76,126 fans are attending the 2019 #WinterClassic, the second-highest ever at an NHL game. Total attendance for the NHL’s 26 regular-season outdoor games: 1,389,739 Average per game: 53,452 pic.twitter.com/h1JCG26fCn — NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) January 1, 2019 Both teams arrived in style. The gear looked good, too. Not everyone made a smooth entrance, though… Sportsnet on Twitter Leprechaun down! https://t.co/f5P3m8RTp0 Q. Did you see the leprechaun fall?@pastrnak96: I don’t know what leprechaun is. Q. The guy in green. Pastrnak: [Laughs] It was tough. Everybody give him a little stick tap. #WinterClassic — Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) January 1, 2019 The Blackhawks got on the board first, with Boston scoring shortly after to even things up in the first period. Sportsnet on Twitter Pastrnak in front to tie it! #WinterClassic https://t.co/FrFPwKHlyt Jonathan Toews assisted on Chicago’s second goal of the game, adding to his long list of outdoor points and tying Henrik Zetterberg for the record, with seven. Jonathan Toews outdoor points 1 assist at Wrigley Field 2 goals, 1 assist at Soldier Field 1 assist at Nationals Park 1 assist at TCF Bank Stadium 1 assist at Notre Dame Stadium#Blackhawks — Christopher Kamka (@ckamka) January 1, 2019 Final score: 4-2, thanks to goals from Patrice Bergeron, Sean Kuraly and Brad Marchand to seal the deal. Boston Bruins on Twitter Take it away, @Bmarch63.#WinterClassic | #NHLBruins https://t.co/KF4ftywRft Sportsnet on Twitter The @NHLBruins and @NHLBlackhawks close out the 2019 #WinterClassic with a handshake line. https://t.co/lZxK2ONI5D 1123955 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Coyotes CEO reaffirms commitment to Arizona in letter to fans

Josh Beneteau | @jbenny15 January 1, 2019, 6:26 PM

Arizona Coyotes president and CEO Ahron Cohen says that if the team is sold, it will only be to an owner committed to keeping to team in Arizona. In July it was reported that majority owner Andrew Barroway was looking to sell a 49 per cent stake in the team, and in early Decmber Sportsnet’s reported “there is a sale brewing.” In a letter published on the team’s site Tuesday, Cohen didn’t deny a potential sale is being explored, but assured fans that the team wouldn’t be moved if sold. “Recently, you may have read reports about a potential ownership transaction. As I have said for months, we will continue to explore investment opportunities to better assist our team in achieving our long- term goals and organizational vision,” Cohen wrote. “This process has at its core one key pre-condition: any investment in our team must be laser- focused on helping the Coyotes achieve a long-term sustainable arena solution here in Arizona. “Every potential investment opportunity we evaluate and every business deal we consider is predicated on making our franchise successful here in Arizona for decades to come.” The Coyotes have had a revolving door of owners for years, but things appeared to stabilize once Barroway took over in 2014. But attendance has always been a problem in Arizona, and the team is ranked 27th this season in average attendance with 13,628 people per game. On top of that, with Seattle expansion coming in 2021, the Coyotes will move to the Central Division, which some have pointed out makes the team a prime candidate to relocate to Houston. On the ice the results haven’t been much better. The team has missed the playoffs for six consecutive seasons and currently sits seventh in the Pacific Division with a 17-20-2 record. While the future of the Coyotes is still murky, one thing that is clear is that Cohen still believes that hockey will thrive in the state, and is hoping future investors believe that too. “Arizona is our home. We love it here. And we love playing for you, the very best fans in the NHL,” Cohen wrote. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123956 Websites third line, where there has been a revolving door at both centre and left wing, and on the second power play unit, which until recently, had struggled to score. Sportsnet.ca / Flames Thoughts: Flames hope to keep good times rolling For most of the season, Neal has looked like a frustrated player in 2019 searching for his game and his confidence. But by the looks of it, a four- day Christmas break may have been just what the doctor ordered. Derek Wills | @Fan960Wills January 1, 2019, 8:00 PM Neal has looked different since he stepped onto the ice in Winnipeg for the morning skate on Dec. 27. He’s moving his feet. The puck is exploding off his stick. Despite getting a number of grade-A chances in the Flames’ 4-1 victory over the Jets, Neal couldn’t capitalize. Neal had The Calgary Flames exploded for eight goals in New Year’s Eve victory another strong game on Dec. 29, but failed to score in his team’s 3-2 over the San Jose Sharks. Now the club heads out on a road trip that overtime loss to the Canucks. The good news was Neal was playing the sees them visit Detroit, Boston, Philadelphia and Chicago. right way, regularly putting himself in positions to score. It was only a matter of time. Right? Here are some Flames Thoughts as Calgary looks to carry over its big finish to 2018 into the New Year. Well, he was finally rewarded for all of his hard work against the Sharks. With his team clinging to a one-goal lead early in the third period of a wild New Year’s Eve slobber-knocker! game that was still very much up for grabs, Neal stepped up and scored Monday night’s showdown between the Flames and Sharks must have his biggest goal as a member of the Flames, which ultimately stood as been more fun than a barrel full of monkeys for the sellout crowd of the game winner. Flames fans responded with a standing ovation for 19,289 inside of Scotiabank Saddledome. Neal, who with the weight of the world — and a 24-game goalless streak dating back to Nov. 1 — off of his shoulders, smiled from ear-to-ear. In a game that featured 13 goals — including some that you’ll see on the highlight reel — and 78 penalty minutes — including 15 for Sam Bennett, In his first 38 games with the Flames, Neal scored three goals on 87 who smoked Radim Simek and then fought Barclay Goodrow with less shots. That 3.4 shooting percentage was simply unsustainable for a than 30 seconds left in the game — the feisty Flames defeated the surly player with a career shooting percentage of 11.8 per cent. I’m anxious to Sharks by a final score of 8-5. see if Neal’s New Year’s Eve goal will get him going. If it does, the high- scoring Flames will be even more difficult to deal with. Before the game, I called it the biggest match so far this season for both sides. So, I suppose it was the biggest win so far this season for the Sportsnet NOW gives you access to over 500 NHL games this season, Flames. In addition to once again proving that they’re one of the most blackout-free, including Hockey Night in Canada, Rogers Hometown explosive teams in the NHL, the Flames also showed that they’re not Hockey, Scotiabank Wednesday Night Hockey, the entire 2019 Stanley going to be pushed around. I love the ‘team toughness’ that the Flames Cup Playoffs and more. have played with this season. Oh Canada! With the win, the Flames finished 2018 in sole possession of first place in Three seasons ago, no Canadian teams made the Stanley Cup playoffs. the Pacific Division and tied with the Central Division-leading Winnipeg Two seasons ago, five north-of-the-border clubs qualified for post-season Jets for top spot in the Western Conference. play. Last season, only the Jets and Maple Leafs played spring hockey. Best line in the league? This season, four of the seven Canadian teams rang in the New Year in With 12 points between them, the line of Sean Monahan, Johnny a playoff spot — and three of them appear to be series contenders for Gaudreau and Elias Lindholm led the way for the Flames offensively in the Cup. their victory over the Sharks. Monahan established new career-highs for With the Toronto Maple Leafs, who haven’t won the Cup since 1967, assists and points in a game with five assists. Despite having one of his currently sitting second overall, and the Jets and the Flames tied for third, three assists taken away on a scoring change, Gaudreau equaled his there’s a great chance that this June, a Canadian team will be drinking career-high for points in a game with four (two goals, two assists). Elias out of the Stanley Cup for the first time since the Montreal Canadiens did Lindholm equaled his season-high for points in a game with three (one in 1993. goal, two assists). Road trippin’ Going into 2019, Gaudreau sits fifth in the Art Ross Trophy race with 55 points, while Monahan’s 48 points are tied for 13th and Lindholm’s 44 The 24-12-4 Flames will open a four-game road trip on Wednesday, points are tied for 20th. The Gaudreau-Monahan-Lindholm line has when they take on the 15-19-7 Red Wings in Detroit. The two teams split combined for 147 points this season, which is second behind only the their 2017-18 season series. Jaromir Jagr scored his first goal as a Avalanche combination of Gabriel Landeskog, Nathan MacKinnon and Flame — and likely his last in the NHL, in the Flames’ 6-3 win in Calgary Mikko Rantanen, which has 166 points. on Nov. 9. One week later, the Red Wings routed the Flames 8-2 in a fight and penalty-filled affair in Detroit. The Red Wings went four-for-six With that said, during the month of December, the Flames’ first line got on the power play in a game that got nasty with 131 penalty minutes hotter, recording 65 points in 14 games, while the Avalanche’s top line between the two teams. cooled off a little, collecting 51 points in 13 games. Following Wednesday’s game, the Flames will fly to Boston, where they’ll So I got to thinking… do the Flames have the best line in hockey? I battle the 21-14-4 Bruins in the second half of a back-to-back on asked some of my media colleagues and a few members of the Flames’ Thursday. The Flames beat the Bruins 5-2 in Calgary on Oct. 17. The coaching staff to weigh-in on the other top lines in the league. My short- “3M Line” of Backlund, Tkachuk and Michael Frolik led the way for the list is below. Flames in the win with two points apiece in that game. Neal goes from heel to hero A weekly deep dive into the biggest hockey news in the world with hosts On July 2, Flames general manager Brad Treliving landed one of the Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek. New episodes every Thursday. biggest fish in the free agency pond when he signed James Neal to a The trip continues Saturday in Philadelphia against the 15-18-5 Flyers. five-year, $28.75 million contract. Coming off of a 25-goal season with When these teams met on Dec. 12, the Flames scored two goals in the the Vegas Golden Knights, Neal appeared to be a perfect fit for the final 1:08 of the third period, both with an extra attacker on the ice, before Flames. The team needed a top-six right-winger who could score from completing the comeback 35 seconds into overtime, when Gaudreau anywhere. Ideally, the player would also add size, grit and playoff scored his league co-leading third overtime goal of the season for a 6-5 experience to a group of forwards lacking in all three areas. win. As a six-foot-two, 221-pound right-winger who scored 21-or-more goals The Flames will wrap up the road trip on Jan. 7, when they’ll battle the in each of his first 10 NHL seasons, some from the middle of the ice 15-20-6 Blackhawks in Chicago. Following a 5-2 victory at home on Nov. using his size and strength and some from perimeter with his lethal shot, 3 and a 3-2 triumph on the road on Dec. 2, the Flames can sweep the and as a guy who had competed in the Stanley Cup playoffs in eight- three-game season series with a win. straight seasons, playing in the finals in each of the last two seasons, ‘The Real Deal’ Neal checked all of the boxes. Only four of the Flames’ 11 games in the month of January are against teams with above .500 records, so if Calgary can take care of business, Unfortunately, things didn’t get off to a good start. Neal failed to find they should have a larger lead in the Pacific Division at the end of the instant chemistry with Monahan and Gaudreau on the Flames’ first line or month. with Mikael Backlund and Matthew Tkachuk on the second line. The 31- year-old has spent most of the season playing on the right side of the Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123957 Websites Evander Kane tried ringing the bell first, by jumping Tkachuk late in a frustrating loss that ended his night.

“He hits our best defenceman high in the face, Erik Karlsson’s bleeding,” Sportsnet.ca / Calgary Flames' scorching offence closes 2018 in style said Kane of a game that was 5-4 Flames early in the third. “At that point in the game it was close. And then there’s a lot of chatter. Eric Francis | @EricFrancis January 1, 2019, 1:21 AM The game’s changed a lot from when I came in 10 years ago. There wouldn’t be as much talk. There’d be a little more action. I wanted to kind of make sure there was a little bit more action than just talk. CALGARY – The pre-game promise from rink announcer Beesley was “I saw the replay (of the Bennett hit). Boy, it’s funny. Like I said, there’s a that there would be fireworks after the game. lot of talk and then I leave the game and guys get a little taller out there.” The Calgary Flames apparently couldn’t wait that long. Proving no good deed goes unpunished, poor ol’ Dell was lit up for all eight goals in front of family and friends like fellow-Airdrie resident Ryan No apologies necessary, as one of the league’s most potent offences Straschnitzki who was his guest for the game. simply wanted to end its breakthrough year with a bang. Straschnitzki is a Humboldt Broncos survivor whose home is being Make that, another bang renovated by do-gooders like Dell’s father to accommodate the wheelchair he needs to get around. An 8-5 win over the division-rival San Jose Sharks put the Flames atop the Pacific Division with their league-leading fifth game of the year A large chunk of the 27 shots Dell faced were dangerous ones… and scoring more than seven goals. some fluky ones. The last time the Flames had that many seven-goal games was in 1993- “I mean, that might’ve been the most bad luck I’ve seen in one game,” 94 when goalies still wore small, weighted pillows on their legs and said Dell, who also had Flames goal disallowed following contact by games routinely featured double digits in snipes. Bennett. Yet, early in the third period it was actually a tight game, with the Flames “Even their harmless shots ended up going off stuff and right in the net. leading 5-4 largely because of two early goals from Mikael Backlund and Crazy, all-round game.” stellar netminding from David Rittich. Although Backlund’s early heroics earned him the team’s coveted police Sportsnet NOW gives you access to over 500 NHL games this season, hat, he suggested Rittich was perhaps the game’s first star. blackout-free, including Hockey Night in Canada, Rogers Hometown Hockey, Scotiabank Wednesday Night Hockey, the entire 2019 Stanley “He was probably our best player even though we scored lots,” said Cup Playoffs and more. Backlund. By night’s end, Sean Monahan had a career-high five points (all assists), “I think Ritter kept us in a few times, made some big highlight-reel saves, Matthew Tkachuk and Johnny Gaudreau had four apiece (two goals and especially in the first. It was a tight game and then in the third it exploded. two assists) and Elias Lindholm had three points including his career- I’m impressed with the team. We found ways to score goals. best 18th goal of the season. “Our top line is driving the bus but I think a lot of guys chipped in today Quite the numbers these lads have been piecing together as the NHL’s and that’s big too.” third-leading scoring team in the NHL. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.02.2019 Hard to believe the Flames finished 26th in scoring last year, prompting GM Brad Treliving to concentrate his summer moves on adding depth offensively. It has worked, as the Flames have enjoyed plenty of nights like Monday when the top line alone accounted for 12 points. “Obviously a game for first place, in the Saddledome, in Calgary for New Year’s Eve – the fans were into the game, we were into the game – a big win,” said Gaudreau, who actually had an assist taken away, preventing him from his first five-point night. “A great night for our team. A lot of happy faces – the team won a big game against a big team.” Even James Neal got in on the action with his first goal in 25 games, albeit via a net-front redirection off his shin pad that had him grinning ear to ear. The jubilant crowd gave him a rousing ovation for his fourth goal of the year, hoping it might kickstart a scoring spree for the free agent signing making $5.75 million annually. While all the talk in the Flames room was how they were able to pull away from the charging Sharks in the third, the chatter down the hall revolved around the on-ice fireworks that ended the game. The Sharks were angry Tkachuk hit Erik Karlsson high late in the night, causing bleeding. Sam Bennett was steamed he’d been hit in the groin by goalie Aaron Dell. It was a late hit in the final minute by an emotional Bennett on an unsuspecting Radim Simek, followed immediately by a Bennett-Barclay Goodrow fight, that had the Sharks really simmering. And the crowd rockin’. “Predatory,” said Sharks coach Pete DeBoer of a clean, hard hit that will be looked at by the league as it was clearly late. “It’s kind of gutless at the end,” added Joe Pavelski. “It’s one of those plays you don’t really probably expect. Goody did a good job answering the bell.” 1123958 Websites Masters and Frank Seravalli have more on the adjustments being made ahead of Wednesday's do-or-die quarterfinal with Finland.

-- TSN.CA / Finnish coach playing underdog card against Canada Losing focus, even for a second, can create problems. Frost, for example, received a checking-from-behind penalty in the first period on Mark Masters Monday, which led to Russia’s tying goal on the power play. "It was a weird play," the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhound explained. "He kind of turned and I probably should have let up a little bit. I think that was my Jussi Ahokas is playing the underdog card. second shift so I was a little ahead of myself there and just have to manage (my emotions) a little better." "All the pressure's on Canada," Finland’s head coach said ahead of Wednesday's showdown in Vancouver. "We don't have the pressure. The penalty carried with it a 10-minute misconduct, taking Canada’s They have all the pressure in the world with them. So, we'll go there and leading scorer out of action for most of the opening period. have fun and play good hockey as a team. It will be a great night for us tomorrow." "It's definitely different," Frost said. "I'm not really used to that penalty with the 10 added on. It was tough to sit in there so long." Finland beat Canada 5-2 in a pre-competition game at Rogers Arena on Dec. 23, but faltered in the preliminary round going 2-0-0-2 in Pool B to Thanks to a delay-of-game call on Pavel Shen with just seven seconds finish third behind Sweden and the United States. Canada went 3-0-0-1 left, Canada ended up with three power plays versus just two for the in Pool A action, but let nerves creep in during a New Year’s Eve loss to Russians, marking the fourth straight game in which the host nation had the Russians. more man-advantage opportunities than their opponents. Ahokas doesn’t believe that’s a coincidence. "These guys are kind of growing up through this environment," said Canada's head coach Tim Hunter, "and being a team that doesn’t have a "From what I've seen so far there's been many penalties for the teams lot of experience in this, it’s a process. As a coach you’re disappointed in against Canada so we have to be ready for everything [on Wednesday]," [Monday] night, but by no means upset, because there's still growth the coach said. "I've seen (Maxime) Comtois so there’s been lots of times going on here." where Canada knows what to do to get the penalties. We have to be ready for that." But the margin for error is now basically gone. And the stakes are high in the quarterfinals as the loser will be going home without getting a chance Comtois received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in the first period to play for a medal. Monday night after going down hard following a cross-check by Klim Kostin. During a first intermission interview with Russian television "These are perfect chances," Ahokas said. "Like, you don't get these Kostin, who also ended up in the penalty box on the play, accused kinds chances many times to play in a full house against Canada so you Comtois of diving. have to take advantage and love it and love the opportunity." Will Hunter have a word with his captain on this subject? Finland coach plays underdog card, says officiating has favoured Comtois, Canada "He understands the nuances of taking penalties and drawing penalties and I’m not going to talk to him about embellishment," the coach said. Finland enters Wednesday's quarterfinal as the clear underdog and "He understands how it went last night." coach Jussi Ahokas is embracing the role. 'They have all the pressure in the world with them,' he said. 'So, we’ll go there and have fun.' Ahokas "I get cross-checked a lot," said Comtois, "and that's going to happen. also mentioned Canada's captain, Maxime Comtois, by name while We're Team Canada so we have targets on our backs and we're going to suggesting that the officiating has favoured Canada at the World Juniors get slashed again tomorrow and as the tournament goes on ... We're so far. trying to play hard here and sometimes you let the emotion get the better of yourself. We're just trying to have an edge on every team and those Throughout this entire process together, Canada has consistently spoken things are going to happen so just have to be careful with that." as a group about pressure and how best to deal with it. They even have a mental performance consultant (Dr. Ryan Hamilton) with the team. Hunter won't speak with Comtois about diving penalty How much do they focus on the mental side of the game? Canada's Maxime Comtois took an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in the first period of Monday's game and was accused of diving by Russian "A lot," said starting goalie Mikey DiPietro, "especially with the captain Klim Kostin afterwards. But head coach Tim Hunter insists he tournament being in Canada there’s added pressure, I think, not only isn't concerned about his captain's lack of discipline in the New Year's what everyone else puts on us, but the pressure we put on ourselves Eve showdown. For his part, Comtois says being targeted on the ice is internally." nothing new for him or his teammates. Canada has never failed to reach the podium in any World Juniors on -- home ice so a loss on Wednesday wouldn’t just be tough to take, it would be an historic hiccup. So, how exactly do these teenagers grapple with Playing in his third World Juniors, Eeli Tolvanen was expected to lead the the expectations? way for Finland. But the Predators prospect, who suited up in four NHL games with Nashville earlier this season before heading to Milwaukee in "Breathing techniques come into play when you want to slow your heart the AHL, has just two assists so far. rate down during the game or even before the game," DiPietro said. "Definitely when you step on the ice and hear all the fans cheering your "It's been a tough tournament for me," he admitted. "I've had a lot of heart starts beating faster than usual. So, that's something that can turn scoring chances, but haven't got the bounces. As a line, we've improved your focus back to the play and back to the game. The rink's the same our game a lot and to play with two young guys like (Kaapo) Kakko and size so we have to bring our focus back to that. It’s just another game to (Anton) Lundell, tomorrow I’ll just be the guy to give the puck to them." play and this one’s elimination, but we play hockey because it’s fun and Tolvanen is tied with Kakko for the team lead with 17 shots, including that will be our focus." three missed breakaways against Kazakhstan. He's not overly "We do some relaxation stuff," said forward Morgan Frost, "so that superstitious, but Tolvanen has one old standby move to snap slumps, obviously helps. But I think just staying off your phone and mingling with which he's considering using. the guys ... just keep an open mind." "Sometimes I tape my stick with the white tape, normally I do it with In the social media age, is it hard to stay off your phone? black, but haven’t done it yet. So, maybe I need to do it tomorrow." "Yeah," Frost said breaking into a smile, "a little bit. I mean, I’m 19 so a After a strong KHL run (36 points in 49 games with Jokerit last season), lot of guys in my position are on their phone a lot so it’s not easy, but you Tolvanen acknowledges the transition back to the North American game try your best." hasn't been easy. Canada tries to tune out the pressure after wake-up call "It's been tough learning the small ice again," he said. "It was a tough start for me and I didn’t get any points in the first games. As the season Since opening camp, Team Canada has spent a lot of time working on goes on, I feel more confident out there. Playing a couple games in dealing with pressure. They even have a mental performance consultant Nashville was good for me. I think I played my best games when I was in on staff. But sometimes life is the best teacher and the New Year’s Eve Nashville. Just overall it’s getting better and easier for me to play the loss to the Russians may have been the wake-up call they needed. Mark North American game. Adjusting to the junior game isn’t easy either as Tolvanen, who has 12 points in 24 games with the Admirals, points out the style of play is less structured. He had a goal and an assist during his cameo with the Predators. "I just need to keep going and battling through the tough times," he said. Goalless Tolvanen may switch tape colour to change World Junior luck With just two assists in four preliminary round games, Eeli Tolvanen admits he's feeling pressure to produce more at the World Juniors. The Finnish forward, who played four games with the Predators this season, says it's been 'tough' managing his frustration. Nashville's first-round pick in 2017 has been playing in the AHL and notes it's not easy adapting back to the junior level where the play is less structured. TSN.CA LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123959 Websites Forward: Tyler Madden, U.S. - An excellent skater who uses his speed to great effect with an offensive bent to his game and is a key contributor to the Americans' perfect penalty-kill in the tournament. (Vancouver, 2018 TSN.CA / Poehling the MVP so far at World Juniors 3rd round, No. 68 overall) TSN.CA LOADED: 01.02.2019 Craig Button

The absence of star American centre Jack Hughes has allowed Ryan Poehling to take centre stage at the 2019 World Junior Hockey Championship. The Montreal Canadiens first-round pick (25th overall in 2017) has shifted from wing to centre for the U.S. while Hughes missed three preliminary-round games with an undisclosed injury. All Poehling has done in his new role is take the tournament lead in scoring with eight points (five goals, three assists) while helping his team to a second-place finish in Pool B. The highlight came during a furious third-period rally against Sweden on Dec. 29, where Poehling’s assist and natural hat trick (including two goals in the final minute) helped the U.S. erase a 4-0 lead and force overtime. Sweden prevailed in the extra frame on Adam Boqvist’s goal, but the performance clinched MVP honours for Poehling in the round-robin portion of the tournament and a place on the tsn.ca Group A All-Star team. Here are the rest of our selections: Group A All-Star Team

Goalie: Lukas Dostal, Czech Republic - Two-time Player of the Game. 3 GA, .960 SV% & 1 shutout in 3 GP. He has been stellar in the net for Czech Republic. (Anaheim, 2018 3rd round, No. 85 overall) Defenceman: Alexander Romanov, Russia - Tournament scoring leader among defencemen and his bold play on the blue line, without taking a penalty, has been felt in all areas of the game. (Montreal, 2018 2nd round, No. 38 overall) Defenceman: Alexander Alexeyev, Russia - His smart, calm and poised puck play in all three zones has been a steadying element for the entire team. (Washington, 2018 1st round, No. 31 overall) Forward: Philipp Kurashev, Switzerland - His five goals ties for the tournament lead and for the Swiss, his offence has made them a dangerous team. (Chicago, 2018 4th round, No. 120 overall) Forward: Pavel Shen, Russia - Scored the biggest goal of group play with the winner vs. Canada which is his second contribution to a game-winner after his shorthanded assist to Kovalenko vs. the Czechs. (Boston, 2018 7th round, No. 212 overall) Forward: Cody Glass, Canada - Has been dominant in the faceoff circle and a catalyst for getting Canada on the scoreboard early. (Vegas, 2017 1st round, No. 6 overall) Group B All-Star Team

Goalie: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Finland - Big, strong, steady and has been the backbone of the Finnish team with his play. (Buffalo, 2017 2nd round, No. 54 overall) Defenceman: Erik Brannstrom, Sweden - The King of the Swedish blue line with his four goals and strong play in every area and situation of the game. (Vegas, 2017 1st round, No. 15 overall) Defenceman: Martin Fehervary, Slovakia - Excellent skater who takes the initiative and drives the play for Slovakia from the defensive zone, in transition and in the offensive zone. (Washington, 2018 2nd round, No. 46 overall) Forward: Ryan Poehling, U.S. - The tournament’s leading scorer with a natural hat trick vs. Sweden, a back-breaking goal vs. Finland to secure second place and a key force with the absence of Jack Hughes. (Montreal, 2017 1st round, No. 25 overall) Forward: Emil Bemstrom, Sweden - He plays the game with the same energy and enthusiasm as Montreal’s Brendan Gallagher and is an offensive threat in similar fashion. His 20 shots on goal is tied for the tournament lead. (Columbus, 2017 4th round, No. 117 overall) 1123960 Websites pair to net the game-winner with nine minutes to play. Phillips said he “took the wrong angle on him.”

Russian goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov was sensational, stopping 30 of 31 TSN.CA / Canada's road to gold a rocky one after loss to Russia shots, to stun the Canadians in front of a 17,500 sellout crowd on home soil. Shen’s goal marked the first time Team Canada trailed in the tournament Frank Seravalli The entire night was a shock to the system for Team Canada - from the emotion, the volume of the crowd and the magnitude of the stage, to the strength of the opponent. VANCOUVER — It was the maiiiiiiin event of the 2019 World Junior Championship preliminary round, as Maxime Comtois roared pre-game “We were on our heels kind of watching instead of being in that driving in his best Bruce Buffer voice. mode with that foot on the gas mentality and playing to our identity,” Hunter said. “We haven’t had that yet. It’s not taking our foot off the gas, Canada-Russia. New Year’s Eve fireworks. Two hockey world it’s playing with that foot on the gas mentality. We never got our foot on superpowers colliding on Canadian soil with a decades-long history of the gas to start with. Foot on the gas, looking through the front hate ready to write the next chapter. windshield, driver’s mentality. We didn’t play like that.” Tensions were high. Emotions were charged. The stage was set for high- Team Canada played with wide eyes. “That’s all fixable stuff,” Hunter speed, high-skill, high-event hockey. said. But when the puck dropped, Team Canada - by their own admission - got Hunter said Team Canada “stubbed its toe” against the United States wrapped up in it all. outdoors in the preliminary round last year, and then rebounded for gold. “I think maybe we bought a little bit too much into the hype,” Comtois “I’m glad it happened in a round robin game than an elimination game,” said. “Maybe some guys weren’t aware of, you know, being loud in the Glass said, echoing the thoughts of an entire country. “We’re going to fix stands in these types of games.” our mistakes.” “I think emotions might have gotten to us,” Cody Glass said. “I think we There’s still time. were yelling at the refs quite a bit, especially myself. I think the game was getting in our head a little bit.” TSN.CA LOADED: 01.02.2019 At the end of the night, the Russian Federation’s national anthem played in Vancouver. The good news for Team Canada: “Now we know what to face,” Comtois said. The bad news for Team Canada: “It’s going to get bigger and bigger. Tonight is like the last rehearsal for it. The next game you don’t have a gimme where you lose a game and still move on,” coach Tim Hunter said. Yes, Team Canada is playing for keeps now. The gold medal cannot be won on New Year’s Eve, but it can certainly be lost. Because after the Russians punched first, knocked Comtois and Canada off their game, and skated off with a 2-1 win on Monday night, the road to gold has gotten significantly rockier now. They would’ve had to beat only two good teams to win gold. Now it’s three. A cupcake in Slovakia - a team that has been outscored 12-4 in their three preliminary round losses - was waiting with a win. That treat is reserved for Group A winner Russia now. Instead, Team Canada will face Finland in the quarterfinal knockout round on Wednesday night (6:30 p.m. ET on TSN 1/3/4/5 and 4K). The Finns beat Canada, 5-2, in a pre-tournament game on Dec. 23 in Victoria - their only loss prior to Monday. What Team Canada is facing with a loss on Wednesday is history, potentially the worst showing ever on home soil. No Team Canada has failed to medal at home. “I haven’t really paid attention that much: is Slovakia that much worse than the U.S. or Finland,” Hunter said, downplaying Canada’s opponent. “I’ve been busy watching our team and the teams we’re playing … I’m not worried about who we’re going to play. You can’t do that in this tournament, especially when you lose a game and don’t win your pool.” Like his players, Hunter called the loss to the Russians “a lesson.” “We get to learn a lesson. It’s a free lesson,” Hunter said. “We’re not eliminated.” “It’s a tough loss,” Comtois said. “But we’re not dead.” What stings for Team Canada is that Group A was there for the taking. The shots were 31-31, Hunter said the scoring chances were 11-10, also nearly even. But Canada’s focus waned, as it had against Switzerland two games earlier. It didn’t bite them then, but it did against an equally-talented Russian team. “I think we had mental lapses during the game,” defenceman Markus Phillips said. “I think that was on us. We’ve got to stick to the game plan and not take any minutes off.” The glaring weakness came when Boston Bruins seventh-round pick Pavel Shen danced through Team Canada’s top line and top defensive 1123961 Websites

USA TODAY / As the NHL season enters 2019, here are things that we don't want to see

Kevin Allen, USA TODAY Published 3:00 p.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019

It’s 2019. Not exactly a fresh start for NHL teams in the midst of the 2018-19 season. But it is time to take inventory and decide how to move forward. Here are things we do not want to see in 2019: Edmonton Oilers missing the playoffs: While there are plenty of elite players to entertain us, if you love the sport, you, at the very least, want to start the postseason with Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin and Connor McDavid in the mix. Toronto Maple Leafs starting the playoffs without a new top-four defenseman: As soon as William Nylander (two points in 11 games) regains his form after settling a long contract dispute, general manager Kyle Dubas needs to get on the phone with Carolina’s Don Waddell and make a deal for a defenseman happen. They might need to give up Kasperi Kapanen, which no one wants to do, but the Maple Leafs can’t put all of their money into forwards and not upgrade their defense. Declining scoring: Since the start of 2017-18 season, scoring is up 9.5%. As Nashville Predators general manager David Poile said early this season, we’ve gone from 3-2 hockey to 4-3 hockey. That’s perfect. This is where we want to be. Plenty of scoring chances. Enough goals. Strong enough defense to keep coaches happy. Let’s not over-analyze this. Tom Wilson in trouble again: The Wilson bad boy story has grown wearisome. Wilson is valuable to the Washington Capitals beyond his intimidation aura. Hopefully, he has learned his lesson and we won't see any irresponsible hits that will put him in front of the department of player safety. NHL trade deadline to be a dud: Remember how torturous last year’s deadline was? The NHL trade deadline, scheduled this year for 3 p.m. ET on Feb. 25, is supposed to be a highlight of the sports calendar, like Christmas with everyone receiving a gift or two. Contenders get players and lower-rung teams receive hope for the future. We will need players like Mark Stone, Matt Duchene, Jake Muzzin, Kevin Hayes, Jimmy Howard and Wayne Simmonds to be dealt to make it a real party. Let’s hope we haven’t entered an era where GMs are going to act responsibly on trade deadline day. Evgeni Malkin and Phil Kessel playing sub-par: Kessel has been hot of late (nine points in his last three games), but they really him and Malkin in a high level of consistency. If that happens, the Penguins could be the sleeper of the 2019 playoffs. Yes, it does seem ludicrous to view the Penguins as a sleeper. They are only 19 months removed from winning back-to-back titles. But there is so much focus on the Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning (for good reason) that it's easy to overlook the fact the Penguins have won six in a row and still have the talent necessary for a title run, especially with Kris Letang and Crosby playing at the levels they are. Don't forget that injured defenseman Justin Schultz eventually will return, and Bryan Rust has increased his production. Coach Barry Trotz missing the playoffs: At the start of the season, didn't you think it would be fun if Trotz's New York Islanders met his former team, the Capitals, in the first round of the playoffs? That's still on the table, folks. Discussion threads about Jack Hughes' lack of size: The American-born presumptive No. 1 draft pick is 5-10 and change, which makes him roughly the same size as Patrick Kane, Johnny Gaudreau and Cam Atkinson. Those three American-born players have combined for 67 goals and we haven't yet reached the season's halfway point. USA TODAY LOADED: 01.02.2019 1123962 Websites

USA TODAY / Opinion: Time for Chicago Blackhawks to take a break from the Winter Classic

Mike Brehm, USA TODAY Published 8:07 p.m. ET Jan. 1, 2019

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced Tuesday that the Dallas Stars would host the next Winter Classic on Jan. 1, 2020, at the Cotton Bowl. He said the opponent was to be determined. Please don't let it be the Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks have played four times in the first 11 Winter Classics, including three of the last five. Throw in a couple Stadium Series games and they have appeared outdoors six times. Tuesday's appearance made sense. The NHL wanted to play in iconic Notre Dame Stadium and knew that Blackhawks fans would make the 90-minute drive to fill it up. And they did just that, with the 76,126 attendance ranking second overall behind the 2014 game between the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs at Michigan Stadium. It was chilling to hear that many fans cheering along as Jim Cornelison sang the national anthem. .@NHLBlackhawks anthem singer Jim Cornelison never disappoints! #WinterClassicpic.twitter.com/C6AXBU6ur9 — NHL on NBC (@NHLonNBCSports) January 1, 2019 But the NHL needs to take a break from assigning the Blackhawks to play outdoors. Chicago played well Tuesday, firing 38 shots at Boston Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask, taking the lead twice and staying in the game until Brad Marchand's empty-netter. But their 4-2 loss dropped the Blackhawks to 0-4 in the Winter Classic and 1-5 in outdoor games. There really is no reason for them to continue outdoors in the near future. The Chicago area's most iconic stadiums — Wrigley Field and Soldier Field — have already hosted games. That leaves the Blackhawks as the road team, and even though they're a ratings draw because of Stanley Cup wins in 2010, 2013 and 2015, they're less relevant nowadays. Even though they had won five of six games heading into Tuesday's game, the Blackhawks are closer to the bottom of the league than they are to a playoff spot. Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews remain top players, but Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook have dropped off, and team depth has been stripped by salary cap woes. And colorful coach Joel Quenneville was fired this season. This is a team that needs to continue rebuilding and get a few high draft picks, as they did before landing Toews and Kane in back-to-back drafts. So let the Blackhawks reboot and put them back outdoors when they are on the rise again. In the meantime, give somebody else a chance. USA TODAY LOADED: 01.02.2019