The Hockey News Big Show now looks toward the battle for the playoffs in the NHL and beyond with a new segment.
Every Friday, Ryan Kennedy and Michael Traikos share their top Stanley Cup contenders in order, defending why they made those choices. The list can change depending on weekly performances, and as we get closer to the playoffs, the clear front-runners will emerge.
Here’s everything Katie Gaus, Ryan and Michael discussed in this episode:
1:47: Ryan’s Cup contenders are in order: Florida, Dallas, Colorado, Vegas, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Washington and Toronto. Why?
4:15: Michael’s Cup contenders are Florida, Dallas, Colorado, Toronto, Winnipeg, Tampa Bay, Edmonton and Winnipeg. He explains why.
6:47: Does last season’s first-round exit by the Winnipeg Jets prevent Ryan and Michael from putting them higher up on the list?
8:27: How does Miro Heiskanen’s injury affect the Dallas Stars’ placement?
10:51: Which division’s teams will be the most beat up by the conference finals?
14:42: Which current playoff team is in the most danger of falling down the standings down the stretch?
17:36: What team do you not want to face in the playoffs?
19:39: The Vegas Golden Knights signed Adin Hill to a six-year extension worth $6.25 million. Do we like it?
22:56: Defenseman Dougie Hamilton’s regular season is over. Should the New Jersey Devils consider trying to move Hamilton in the off-season based on his injury history? Is it even possible with his cap hit?
26:46: Should Mikko Rantanen get the same “welcome back video tribute” moment other players who won the Cup got when they returned – or are things just too awkward for that now?
31:06: Who will have a bigger playoff impact on their new team: Charlie Coyle or Brad Marchand?
32:41: The NHL is reportedly considering an 84-game schedule and a possible September start. Do we like or dislike this scenario?
34:26: What NHL team gets the harshest criticism from fans and media?
37:31: Utica Comets GM Dan MacKinnon traded his son, Will MacKinnon, to the Cleveland Monsters for future considerations. If you were a GM, would you do this to your son?
38:30: Have you ever gotten lost in any arena trying to get to the dressing room?
Watch the full episode here.
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