A Wild Free Ride (PT 1)

The Best in the West

As we reach the point of 60% of the games being played, it is time to start looking at the standings, current odds and who might be buyers or sellers. 

Let’s start in the West with the Best:

Colorado – Kirk’s Defending Champs look like they are set for another run.  They come in at a +350.  With little to no CAP space, the team playing well, it is hard to believe any moves will be made.  There may be some depth moves, but on the whole: Stand Pat

Winnipeg – Currently sitting in 2^nd in the West, a solid team just off a win against the Aves, Matt has his Jets looking like a contender.  Coming in at a +1000, with a $3.8 in space, look for Matt to be looking to add a little depth to a fine lineup.  BUYER

Edmonton – Our 3^rd in the West is the Oilers who currently lead the Pacific division.  With $7.9 available in CAP space, one would find it hard to not think they are Buyers.  Coming in at a +2000 and with last month’s empty cupboard press conference, we don’t see much in the way of moves.  Maybe a depth rental for a 6^th  or  a 7^th  Rounder.  Stand Pat

Vancouver – Duran’s Nucks  are sitting in 4^th, sporting an 8-2 record for the last ten.  They may be able to make some noise.  GM Duran finds himself in a precarious situation.  With only 3.1 in CAP space and Pekka announcing his retirement, what does he do?  Coming in at a +3500, we see the Nuck’s trying to package for an upgrade.  Look for Tanner, Stecher and Beagle to be on the move.  BUYER

St. Louis – Our final West contender, Mario’s Blues.  The Blues are top heavy but depth is a need.  With the emergence of Husso looking to be TUFHL ready next year; the ability to retain the better part of the top, Look for the Blues to be looking toward next year.  Coming in at a +4300, if it doesn’t help next year, it doesn’t help.

Stand Pat

The Rest:

In the Hunt for the playoffs

Nashville - With 12.3 CAP space, Patrick may be looking to acquire.  BUYER

Vegas – The Miracle on Ice Knights have moved up from out of the dungeons.  GM Steve knows this is not his year.  He will continue to look to the Future.  SELLER

Chicago – Rod has been stocking the cupboards all season, now is not the time to change.  SELLER

Anaheim – With CAP Friendly Burakovsky and Stevenson at OV 73, The Ducks may be looking to rake in the rewards.  SELLER

Calgary – Billy’s flames are looking like a youthful team. With some mid-range Bargain talent, look for Bill to be answering the phone frequently.  SELLER

Arizona – GM Stocks has been in this position before.  Overfull cupboards with not many Bargain Contributors.  Justin will sell if he can.  Martinez, Domi, Irwin come to mind.  Be assured, GM Jus will come out ahead or stand pat.  SELLER

The Battle for the Top 5 picks

Stars, Sharks, Kings and Wild, will do what they can to build on their future without disrupting the Franchise.  SELLERS