Well, here’s the thing. In the preseason, experts handpicked teams like the Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche, and Edmonton Oilers to hoist Lord Stanley in the summer. From Toronto to ESPN, nearly everyone was going crazy for these four. It’s easy to understand why, with all four having loaded squads or megastar talent.

However, I’m convinced the Vegas Golden Knights will repeat as the Stanley Cup champions once the kids are out of school. But I bet you’re wondering, “Why, though?” Here are a few reasons why that’ll be the case at the end of the year.

Ed-Mid-Ton Oilers

For all the hype the Edmonton Oilers receive (you know why), the Oilers are not as great as you think. Last year, the Vegas Golden Knights eliminated the Oilers with an array of scorers and strong play from all lines.

Yes, ESPN’s favorite team destroyed Vegas’s penalty kill. However, five-on-five was a different story. When you only have a formidable line consisting of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, that can only carry you so far before you collapse.

Edmonton is also weak to teams with balanced scoring. Just look at their Western Conference Finals series against the Colorado Avalanche a couple of seasons ago. They might’ve had the best two players in the world. But the Avs had Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Nazem Kadri carrying the load, to name a few.

Add in a weak blue-line unit and see that the Oilers are nothing more than a glass cannon. They only hope to outscore you to win games, sparing its defense. Otherwise, they’re as bad as McDavid’s taste in licorice. Someone, please save Stuart Skinner!

Pacifist Division

It isn’t just the Oilers that isn’t convincing me. The Seattle Kraken are experiencing a major pullback to start the season. There isn’t a defining offensive leader on the Kraken right now. Andre Burakovsky? Matty Beniers? The Emerald City still has a young hockey team that needs to get their cuts in. Maybe they could have Julio Rodriguez play hockey?

Another team lacking an imposing offensive figure is Los Angeles. Auston Matthews was supposed to hit the free agent market next season, making him the perfect target for the Kings. However, with him inked to the Maple Leafs, it takes an option away from a growing team.

Meanwhile, Anaheim, San Jose, and Vancouver are all rebuilding, while Calgary is listless. This will lead to the Vegas Golden Knights reigning supreme over the Pacific Division once again. Looking at the Central Division shows the Western Conference is a bit weak, altogether.

The only Western Conference competition Vegas has are the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche. However, Colorado dealt with numerous injuries last season and the Knights have adjusted to the Stars’ style. Therefore, the door’s open for Vegas to take the west again.

The Gold Standard

Now, let’s look at what will make the Golden Knights back-to-back champions. First, they find ways to beat you. I mean, any particular way they can win, they will. Whether it’s an offensive onslaught against Seattle or a come-from-behind victory against Dallas, Vegas will emerge on top.

Just look at the stat cards against the Chicago Blackhawks. While the main stars like Chandler Stephenson and William Karlsson didn’t have their best games, the rest of the team stepped up, specifically on the penalty kill. In a game where Vegas was outplayed, they came together as a unit and pulled away late.

Vegas’s team mentality also extends to the offensive end. Entering Tuesday’s game against the Flyers, the Golden Knights were tied for fifth in team goals per game with four. The Knights’s power play has also improved, ranking ninth in the NHL (27.3% entering Tuesday).

Other aspects include the aforementioned penalty kill (88.9% entering Tuesday, ranked ninth) and Jack Eichel emerging as a leader. But the improved power play and overall scoring depth make the Golden Knights a threat to repeat. That’s especially true with the Pacific Division being as horrible as Connor McDavid’s socks.

Who Can Topple The Golden Knights?

However, you can’t expect Vegas to be perfect against everybody. While the prospects of 82-0-0 sounds enticing, it’s simply unrealistic. Besides, striving for that pace burns out a team. Just ask the Boston Bruins last season.

With that, who are the biggest threats to the Knights’s reign over the NHL? What teams could give Vegas the most problems and leave them to drink a few whiskey shots at a slot machine at MGM Grand?

New Jersey Devils

New Jersey has goal scorers everywhere, making them line-for-line threats against Vegas. Whether it’s Jesper Bratt on the second line or Erik Haula on the third, the Devils can present problems that the highly-touted Oilers couldn’t.

They also house the best power play in the NHL (42.9% entering Monday). If Vegas plays the Devils in the Stanley Cup Final, that could prove worrisome. That’s especially true in the Edmonton series last season, where McDavid and Draisaitl devastated the Golden Knights on the man advantage.

Detroit Red Wings

Believe it or not, Steve Yzerman has this team headed in the right direction. Entering Tuesday, the Red Wings had the top two leaders in points, with Alex DeBrincat (12) and Dylan Larkin (11) leading the way. Hockeytown also has the likes of Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider, who are ready to take the next step.

Like the Devils, Detroit has a good power play (39.1% entering Tuesday, second-best in the NHL). But they also have a big body in the net in Ville Husso. If the Finnish-born goaltender becomes a threat, that could be no bueno for Vegas if they meet the Wings in the Stanley Cup Final.

Colorado Avalanche

While we talked about Vegas being able to surpass Colorado, they’re tough to beat when healthy. In fact, the Golden Knights aren’t the only undefeated team left. Entering Tuesday, the Avs were 5-0-0, putting them near the top of the NHL standings.

While the Avalanche has offensive juggernauts like Mackinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Artturi Lehkonen, they play a similar style to Vegas. A constricting defensive plan where the Golden Knights are squeezed out of scoring opportunities could be devastating in a playoff matchup.

The Consensus: The Golden Knights Will Repeat

Still, the Vegas Golden Knights are poised to repeat as Stanley Cup champions. It’s uncommon to see a team return most of their starting lineup, which makes them a massive threat. The core is still there and will be for years to come, with cornerstones like Mark Stone and Eichel sticking around.

Anything can happen in an NHL season, ranging from cringeworthy injuries to surprising teams. However, a safe bet would be for the Golden Knights to hoist Lord Stanley come June.

The post Why The Golden Knights Will Win The Stanley Cup… Again appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Zach, Trevor, and Andrew get together to talk about the incident that resulted in the on-ice death of Adam Johnson. Our sincerest condolences to all of his family and friends

Check us out!

Recorded on 10/30/23

The post Wrinkles in the Crease: RIP Adam Johnson appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Stone is also 31 years old, which means someone will eventually take the role from him. Considering Stone’s recent injury history, it might be sooner than later. After all, being a solid defense-oriented center in the NHL is never an easy task.

With that, we must name a successor to the role. We’ll need someone with a calm demeanor. That someone must also be respected in the locker room and in the community. We know that Jack Eichel or William Karlsson are in line to be the successor to the title. But I have an underrated choice that would also work.

Mark Stone Hoisting The Stanley Cup (2023)

The Perfect Choice

Many people have raved about this particular Golden Knight as the next captain. They’ve said his level head and great personality make him a good fit for the captaincy. He is also a solid defenseman who’s grown into his role within the team.

Zach Whitecloud is that person. He’s developed into an excellent defenseman for the Golden Knights, becoming a Vegas staple. Leading a quiet life void of any distractions or nuances, Whitecloud looks to be the perfect successor to Mark Stone’s title.

But we must get to know this mysterious man. Who is he and what does he do? What is he like on and off the ice? Let’s explore Zach Whitecloud’s world and see why he should be the next official leader of the Vegas Golden Knights.

Who is Zach Whitecloud?

Zach Whitecloud Mid-Game

Zach Whitecloud is a 26-year-old native of Brandon, Manitoba. He’s of Sioux descent and spent most of his time at the nearby Sioux Valley Dakota Nation. Whitecloud was an undrafted pick-up for the Golden Knights.

Before his tenure in Vegas, Whitecloud was a standout star with the Virden Oil Capitals and Bemidji State University. At Bemidji State in 2017-2018, he was the team leader in blocked shots (51) and was named to the WCHA All-Academic Team.

It’s safe to say Whitecloud is the perfect fit for the Golden Knights. After all, Vegas led the NHL in blocked shots by a team with 1,493 last season. But that isn’t just what the Bemidji State alum brings.

Zach Whitecloud’s Best Qualities

When John Anderson made a controversial remark about Whitecloud’s last name, it caused a stir. The defenseman handled the racist remarks with class and dignity, summing it up as “an opportunity to learn.” Such a response proves Whitecloud knows how to handle adversity without pressure.

His tendency to keep to himself and be mild-mannered is also a boost to his leadership credentials. Going back to his response, you could tell there wasn’t any ill will from Whitecloud. He believed in giving Anderson the opportunity to learn about his mistake, which is nearly unforeseen in today’s society.

You can also point to his stats and see how he’s a leader. His takeaways have increased every season from 2020 to 2022 (from nine in 2020 to 24 in 2022-2023). He’s also blocked a sizable 304 shots in his career, showcasing his defensive acumen. He’s even a good player on the attack. Last season, he also had a 10.8% shooting talent, making him an underrated offensive threat.

What Might Go Wrong With This?

First, Whitecloud needs to stay healthy and play a full 82 games. The most he’s played in a season is 59. He’s been hit with numerous injuries and has already gotten surgery for an upper-body injury, which will put him on the injured reserve. Staying healthy is key to getting him the captain role. Otherwise, this discussion will never get off the ground.

Here’s another problem: Mark Stone is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2027-2028. Whitecloud will hit free agency a year later. If the defenseman doesn’t work out and said injuries consume him, what will Vegas do?

He’s also best when focused on keeping the puck out of the net. Nicklas Lidstrom had a natural talent for being at the puck at all times. He made it a habit to read the play before it happened, cutting off every opportunity for an offensive attack. Developing that acumen further is key to making Whitecloud a great NHL defenseman.

Whitecloud’s Impact On The Community

Zach Whitecloud has a major impact on the Las Vegas community. He’s a regular participant in the “Battle For Vegas” softball event at Las Vegas Ballpark. Here, you can watch him and his Golden Knight teammates take on the Raiders.

But did you know that Whitecloud also participated in the UNLV Hockey Rebels charity golf tournament? Since the Golden Knights’ inception, hockey has grown in the state of Nevada. The defenseman has done an incredible job serving as an ambassador in Sin City.

Overall, Whitecloud’s community work and calm demeanor could make him the ultimate successor to Mark Stone’s title of captain. You can count on him to put his head down and get to work, leading the charge for a Vegas victory.

The post This Golden Knight Should Be the Next Captain appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Some of you are probably thinking “a hockey league banning fighting? That’s insane.” That reaction makes a lot of sense given the sport’s history and how fighting is intertwined with it. This is actually a good thing though, and I’m going to tell you why. The QMJHL is the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. It is viewed as a professional developmental league for players who range mostly from the ages of 16 to 20. Obviously, the players in this league are incredibly skilled, but nevertheless, it is a developmental league that seeks to embolden young players with both proper knowledge and experience so that they may excel in professional hockey.

There are professional leagues where they allow fighting. It completely makes sense that they should be allowed to fight of your own volition in those leagues. However, the focus of the league is not on entertainment, but growth and sportsmanship. Add to that these young adults and sometimes even children are still growing, and it makes sense that the responsible thing to do at a management level is to ban fighting. It eliminate unnecessary risk to the players’ development (head injuries, hand injuries, etc.) from the league. It also reinforces the importance of being a respectful player at the professional level.

Many people do not view it this way and are worried that fighting will be taken out of hockey completely. However, the sentiment regarding the whole ban has been blown out of proportion. It has been very reactionary and unnecessarily strong. This ban is not about taking fighting away from hockey. The ban is about taking the necessary precautions to make sure that the children and young adults who are looking to play this game can do it in a safe way. The NHL is most likely going to keep fighting legal. Why should we have it in a league for young adults and teenagers?

The post The QMJHL Fight Ban Is Good… Heres Why. appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Who is Mackie Samoskevich?

Mackie Samoskevich is a deadly player on the ice. His shot is a force to be reckoned with and can score goals with ease. Samokevich has a knack for finding open spaces and creating scoring chances. His speed is also a very good asset. He is also a hard-working and versatile player who can contribute in all situations, whether it’s on the power play, penalty kill, or even strength. It has also been noted that his maturity level is far beyond most prospects his age.

“He is a very strong skater, he’s got a fabulous shot, he plays the game the right way, he’s got a good head on his shoulders” said Panthers’ Director of Player Personnel Bryan McCabe per Colby Guy of the Florida Hockey Now.

Career

Samoskevich has had a strong start to his young career. He has excelled in his USHL career while scoring 26 goals and 73 points in 85 games while playing for the Chicago Steel. Adding to his budding success, he has had a solid stretch in his two seasons while playing for the University of Michigan, posting 30 goals and 72 points with 79 games played.

Will He Make the Panther’s Roster?

Will he make the opening night roster? It appears that there is a very good chance. There does not seem to be any major weakness in his game that would keep him from his size. Samoskevich a very positive impression on the Panthers’ prospect training camp. His mature, confident attitude and his skill electrified the front office.

“He came in and he was a great player for us, played in some high-intense playoff games in the American League” said Charlotte coach Geordie Kinnear per David Dwork of the Hockey News. 

Additionally, Samoskvich is confident about his ability stating that his goal of reaching the NHL “isn’t farfetched.”

“I know I can do it.” Samoskevich said during the development camp earlier this summer when asked about his goal to make the opening night roster.

Florida front office concurs with his assessment.

“I don’t see why he couldn’t (make the team)” McCabe agreed.

Long Range Potential

Samoskyich has the talent to be an NHL star. The current level of his play is NHL caliber and there is a good chance that he may play on opening night. Furthermore, his maturity and his work ethic has shown that he could potentially have a leadership role in the near future. In addition, his versatility has shown that he will most likely excel in all situations. A minor concern is that he has a smaller frame and he is not very physical.

Overall, he is a solid prospect that Panthers fans can be very excited for.

If you want more hockey content, click here to check out more great stories.

The post Florida Panthers Prospect Report: Mackie Samoskevich appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Reigning!

Defending!

…Stanley Cup Champions, the Vegas Golden Knights! I’m also the advocate for a promising goaltending prospect in the Golden Knights’ farm system.

This particular prospect had a spectacular showing at this year’s World Juniors tournament. He made a name for himself and showed why Vegas has a bright future.

That’s right! I’m the advocate for Carl Lindbom, the 20-year-old Swedish goaltender and Golden Knights phenom. He’s already drawing rave reviews from hockey fans across the globe, making his mark on the game.

Why should you be hyped about this Swedish star? Why does Vegas have a bright future in the goaltending position? Here are three reasons why I’m sold on Lindbom as a future Golden Knights star.

Who Is This Prospect?

Most people will think of goaltenders like Connor Hellebuyck and Andrei Vasilevskiy as the cream of the crop. But our Swedish star deserves some recognition. Let’s get you up to speed on who Carl Lindbom is.

Lindbom is a prospect for the Vegas Golden Knights, drafted in the seventh round (222nd pick) of the 2021 NHL Draft. Currently, he plays for Farjestad FK in the Swedish Hockey League as a goaltender.

He was born on May 20, 2003, in a little Swedish city known as Stockholm. He’s 6’1″ and weighs roughly 190 lbs, which makes him undersized. Still, there are other attributes and past performances to his game that make him solid.

World Juniors Showcase

The IIHF World Junior Championship is a display of hockey’s up-and-coming talents. They come from all over the world, ranging from the Czech Republic to Sweden. This year’s competition was where Lindbom made his presence known.

The Swedish star went 4-3 with a save percentage of .914 and a goals against average (GAA) of 2.64. That also included two shutouts, making Sweden an exciting team to watch.

There are also moments like this where he handled the pressure of a 6-on-4 with ease. With his proven ability in tight situations, it’s easy to get high on the Swedish goaltender. That translates well in today’s NHL, especially with the game moving at a faster pace.

Lindbom’s Dominance in Sweden

Lindbom has also been a force in the Swedish hockey scene. Just take a look at his time with Djurgardens, both professionally and at a junior level.

In his 19 games with the junior team in 2021-2022, Lindbom had a save percentage of .913 while boasting a GAA of 2.24. The next season, he was a hit on the professional level, with a save percentage of .929 and a GAA of 1.86. Now that’s flippin’ Swede.

With his lightning-quick goaltending and movements, it’s easy to see how he dominated Sweden easily. His movements and great mental game allow him to adapt to offensive pressure quickly. Take it from his goaltending coach from Djurgardens, Fredrik Mikko.

Mikko lauded his goaltending protege for his maturity and excellent decision-making, which are rare finds at Lindbom’s age. While a goaltender that doesn’t want to leave anything up to chance isn’t a fit in a city like Las Vegas, he fits the Golden Knights franchise perfectly.

The Bottom Line

The Vegas Golden Knights won the Stanley Cup this year by having a goalie-friendly system that sent everyone to Suplex City. Whether it was the Winnipeg Jets or the Florida Panthers, Bruce Cassidy’s squad took the middle of the ice away at every turn. Thus, it was tough to score on them.

There are many reasons to believe that Lindbom will also be successful. Vegas has become a goaltender destination since its inception, with Marc-Andre Fleury blazing a trail for the likes of Logan Thompson.

Lindbom would fit in perfectly under his system, especially with his quickness and calm demeanor. If a former backup for San Jose can make the job look easy, imagine what the future holds for the Swedish superstar.

The post Why I’m High On This Golden Knights Prospect appeared first on Back Sports Page.

But Vegas will have a massive target on their back, too. Keep in mind there are teams gunning for the Golden Knights, especially in the Pacific. Obviously, there’ll be teams like the Oilers and Kings. But the Seattle Kraken and the up-and-coming Anaheim Ducks will be hungry to win the division, too. In short, there should be more competition out west this season.

With that, there are some Knights who look to make an impact. It won’t be easy, but it helps to have some “knights in shining armor.” Here are three Golden Knights that are ready to shine in Sin City this upcoming NHL season.

Paul Cotter

Last season, Paul Cotter had 13 goals in 55 games, showing off why he’s a part of Vegas’s scoring depth. His contributions were paramount to the Golden Knights winning the Pacific Division. Granted, he didn’t have a presence in the Stanley Cup playoffs. But the former fourth-round pick has a chance to do so.

That’s due to him using his size and speed to his advantage. A sizable body that can score is a threat to any defender, after all. Another benefit of Cotter’s game is he’ll continue to grow offensively. If he scored 13 goals last season, imagine what he could do with more ice time.

Cotter will likely spend some time on the third or fourth lines this season. But knowing Bruce Cassidy, he’ll be open to making the necessary changes if things go awry. This is especially true if Cotter learns to move without the puck. Watch for the native of Canton, Michigan, to come through in a big way.

Ivan Barbashev

When the Golden Knights got Ivan Barbashev from the St. Louis Blues for Zach Dean, the move was meant to give Jack Eichel a partner in crime. Boy, did the Russian superstar deliver. In 23 games with Vegas, he scored six goals and notched ten assists on the top line.

As for Eichel? He was unleashed in the postseason, notching 20 assists in the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs. As a result, the Golden Knights won the Stanley Cup and finally brought gold to Las Vegas. Barbashev’s presence has brought out the best in Vegas’s prized superstar, making him into a versatile threat.

These aforementioned reasons are why the Golden Knights re-signed Barbashev to a five-year, $25 million deal this offseason. In a period where Vegas didn’t make any splashy outside signings, their biggest move was retaining a superstar that would’ve been swooped up without question.

Therefore, it’s imperative for Ivan the Great to continue to be… well, great. Whether it’s with Eichel on a two-on-one or with a man advantage, Barbashev must live up to his new deal. That way, the first line for the Knights can continue to be a dominant force.

Logan Thompson

Last year’s All-Star was out for an extended period of time, which left the Golden Knights in a pinch at goalie. However, Logan Thompson should be back with more experience under his belt. This season, he’s projected to be the starting goaltender and stay healthy this season.

But the central question will be, “How is Logan Thompson going to rebound from his lower body injury from last year?” Time will tell, of course. But as it stands, Thompson is beyond the benefactor in a goaltender-friendly system constructed by Cassidy.

Currently, Vegas has plenty of goaltender depth to cover for Thompson. That includes the Stanley Cup hero, Adin Hill, and upcoming prospects like Isaiah Saville. But the expectation is for Thompson to carry the load most of the season.

If Thompson can handle the pressure and stay active in front of the net, he’ll grab another All-Star bid for himself. That means playing at the top of the crease efficiently and using his 6’4″ frame to his advantage. That’ll also mean Vegas makes another deep run in the Stanley Cup playoffs, possibly going back-to-back.

The post Three Golden Knights in Shining Armor For This Season appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Who is Liam Kirk?

Hailing from England, the hockey bug bit Kirk’s family after attending Sheffield Steelers games. “My oldest brother decided to play hockey and as you do, with older siblings, I just copied him, and it went on from there”. Kirk humbly explained his origins.

Liam would eventually follow his dream and play for the Steelers and become a star in the EIHL. “In the first few years that I was playing hockey I kind of had the dream to play for the Sheffield Steelers but as you get older, you realize how big the hockey world is”

His play would attract scouts from North America where he would move across the Atlantic to play in the Ontario Hockey League. After a very successful stent in North American junior hockey, he would be drafted in the 7^th round by the Arizona Coyotes becoming the first English born and trained player to be selected by an NHL team.

Skill

Kirk is more than just a novelty. The 23-year-old forward possesses a sick wrist and slap shot as well as speed. Smaller than most players, weighing only roughly 160 lbs., this agile forward can slip through defensive coverage like a snake through an obstacle course. In addition to his smooth serpentine movement, he has also handled the spotlight very well. Kirk has Great Britan enthusiastic about his potential NHL stardom.

Success

OHL

Kirk has had success in almost of the levels he has played for throughout his young career. While playing two seasons for the Peterborough Petes in the OHL, he has scored 47 goals and tallied 97 points in 110 games played. This would obviously gather scouts’ attention and would lead to him being drafted.

International

Furthermore, in the 2021 World Championships Kirk would finish 6^th in total points scoring while playing under the British flag. Additionally, he would score 7 goals in 7 games where he would co-lead the tournament in goal scoring Canada’s Andrew Mangiapane. Adding to his impressive tournament, he would tie Jason Robertson in points scoring at the end of the tournament.

Professional North American Hockey

AHL

Although he made very limited number of appearances in the AHL, he showed signs of positive development before his season ending ACL injury. In 9 games he would notch 2 goals and tally 3 total points in his short stint. He was on pace to have a respectable 26-point season.

ECHL

After only playing in 1 game in the AHL during the 2022-23 season, Kirk would be sent down to the Atlanta Gladiators. He would excel as he would score 11 points in 14 games with 5 goals. His positive impression would leave a lasting mark on the coaching staff.

“He was a class act from my eyes. Bought in and was a professional.” Stated Jeff Pyle, head coach of the Gladiators.

Pyle would continue to say that Kirk had the talent to play in higher levels of hockey.

Finland

In 2023 Kirk would be loaned to Jukurit in the Finnish Liiga. Despite only playing 25 games, Kirk would go on to score a solid 19 points with 7 goals. He would also finish the season with a +5 rating and 5 penalty minutes.

Some would criticize this move stating that moving to the Liiga was a step backwards, however Kirk kept a very positive outlook stating that it was a “great opportunity to go and develop in one of the best leagues in the world”.

Setbacks

Kirk’s development has hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Kirk was preparing for the upcoming games, the OHL season would be cancelled due to the disease.

Adding to his rocky development, the Englishman would suffer a season ending ACL tear in November of 2021 which would sideline him for the rest of the year. At the time of his injury, Kirk was making his first appearances in the AHL.

Due to the extent of his injury and the pandemic, Kirk had missed quite a bit of time which could have been used to prepare for NHL hockey.

Long Range Potential

Kirk shows a lot of promise in his game. He has the ability to score goals with ease with his imposing slapshot and wrist shot. In addition to his excellent shot, his speed and hands add to his offensive ability. In order to be successful, he must bulk up and be able to withstand heavy blows. Furthermore, his age and his entry level contract are two concerns. He is currently on the final year of his contract, and it is unknown what Kirk’s status may be in the Coyote front office. Also, there are many European players from later drafts who are considerably younger than Kirk that have made their NHL debut. In addition, his knee injuries and the COVID season has hampered his development.

Overall, if he can bulk up and break through into the NHL, he has the potential to be a top 9 forward. Moreover, because of his unique origins and his humble and likeable demeanor, he has the makings of a possible fan favorite.

The post Prospect Spotlight: Liam Kirk appeared first on Back Sports Page.

After a July away from recording, Zach and Trevor are back and better than ever joined this episode by Andrew Tortoriello, aka Lindy Buff, as the show maintains its totally unbiased integrity in regards to the many teams around the NHL, including the New Jersey Devils. Also a hearty congratulations to Patrice Bergeron on a fantastic career.

Recorded on 8/1/23

Check us out!

The post Wrinkles in the Crease: Good Milk appeared first on Back Sports Page.

Of course, the homeless Coyotes aren’t new to this sort of thing. Their proposed $2.1 billion entertainment complex in Tempe was soundly rejected by local voters. That’s despite the fact that it would’ve been mostly funded privately… and that location was sitting on top of a landfill. Talk about your bull crap.

While there’s still a possibility of the ‘Yotes staying in Arizona (let’s face it, Bettman wouldn’t let them leave unless a good deal was struck), it’s always fun to take a look at some of the other options. This time, we’re taking a different approach.

No, we’re not talking about chicken wings this time. We’re diving into an amore-filled land of pizza, specifically the relocation spots as toppings. Whether they’re a classic item or downright questionable, you can’t go wrong with such a classic cuisine. Here are some relocation candidates as pizza toppings.

Houston: Pepperoni

A hit among all parties and one that makes the most sense, you can’t go wrong with pepperoni. That’s why Houston is the odds-on favorite in the NHL sphere. They’re the betting favorite for the Arizona Coyotes to move for many reasons.

For starters, Houston’s the fourth-largest city in the United States. Sitting pretty at over 2.3 million residents, moving to Texas’s largest city sounds like the perfect fit. The Dallas Stars would absolutely love a geographical rival that they haven’t had for decades, too. Why not fill that gap by shoving the Arizona Coyotes into Houston?

There are other variables that benefit H-Town, including an NHL-ready arena in the Toyota Center and keeping the franchise in the Central Division. Yes, there are issues such as shared owners not making as much profit as a sole owner owning both teams (looking at you, Tilman Fertitta). But the benefits outweigh the problems, which makes Houston ripe for an NHL franchise. That’s what makes Houston the pepperoni of the relocation pizza.

Kansas City: Bacon

Another good pizza topping choice is bacon. I mean, who doesn’t love this pork delicacy in the U.S.? Just sprinkle some strips and bits on your pizza and you’re the life of the party. Kansas City is the perfect choice for this topping. Why? It has a rich history with BBQ food and bacon. The city has hosted Bacon Fest, with the MLS team even having its own event.

There are other reasons why K.C. is a good fit as a bacon topping for the relocation pizza. There’s a sports arena that’s waiting for a professional team with T-Mobile Center. Like with Houston, the ‘Yotes would also stay in the Central if they moved to Kansas City.

You’re also giving the St. Louis Blues an in-state rival. While the Blues do have the Chicago Blackhawks as a hockey rival, it can’t hurt to have another. Plus, Patrick Mahomes has already purchased a minority stake in the Royals. Why not have the reigning NFL MVP also buy a part of the Coyotes?

Fun fact: Kansas City does have some NHL history to its name. First, there were the Scouts, who were short-lived from 1974 to 1976. They relocated to Denver to become the Colorado Rockies before eventually becoming the modern-day New Jersey Devils.

Indianapolis: Peppers

While the pepper isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to making a pizza, it’s a popular item nevertheless. That’s where the city of Indianapolis comes in. It’s close to Chicago and Nashville, with the Coyotes still not having to leave the Central.

Indianapolis does have some hockey history to its name as well, albeit it was short-lived. The Indianapolis Racers were a WHL team from 1974 to 1978, playing at Market Square Arena. They’re known as the first professional team that Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier played for. On top of that, Indianapolis won an Eastern Division title in 1975-1976.

There are some hang-ups that cool this city’s flaming hot prospects, though. For one, Gainbridge Fieldhouse isn’t NHL-ready yet. It’ll need to undergo major renovations to expand its 11,000+ capacity. It also needs a willing owner to pick up the team and move it there. The current owner of the Arizona Coyotes, Alex Meruelo, hasn’t expressed any desire to move to the Hoosier State. Still, this city has some kick to it and would be good for the Coyotes to relocate to.

Salt Lake City: Sausage

Adding more meat to the relocation pie is Salt Lake City, who’s suddenly become a hot topic for more sports teams. Just look at the popularity of the Utah Jazz. It’s partly what spawned rumors of MLB expansion in the region.

There’s also proximity to Denver and Las Vegas, which adds to the mystique of the Arizona Coyotes moving here. But that Las Vegas connection is a double-edged sword; the Golden Knights will probably have a say in this with their new Scripps deal, which complicates matters.

Delta Center would also need to be expanded to make this happen, capacity-wise. Its current capacity for hockey games is 14,000, which is even less than Canada Life Centre (15,321), home of the Winnipeg Jets. Another sticking point is Salt Lake City is smaller than Boise. Utah may be growing, but its largest city still isn’t big enough.

There’s a reason why sausage isn’t as popular as pepperoni as a pizza topping. While it is meat, it doesn’t carry the same flavor as pepperoni. That’s where Salt Lake City lies: a logical spot for the ‘Yotes hampered down by other factors.

Hamilton: Mushrooms

No, we’re not talking about the kind that makes Mario grow. We’re talking about the kind you put on a pizza. Mushroom is a dark horse topping incorporated into the signature Italian dish, which is where Hamilton falls.

It’s elementary that hockey is a huge sport in Canada. After all, Jim Balsillie almost got the Penguins relocated there… and the Predators… and the Coyotes. Add in its proximity to Toronto along with an NHL-ready arena and you have a recipe for success.

However, there are reasons why mushrooms aren’t the end-all, be-all for pizza toppings. Not everyone’s on board with the hardy flavor, nor are many people a fan of the texture. Hamilton faces a similar problem with it being another Eastern Conference city. Also, who would want to get the team there, aside from Balsillie (who’s probably going to get shot down again)?

While having more hockey in Toronto sounds nice, everyone knows the Maple Leafs are the kings there. Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment will probably have a say in the matter, which makes things murkier. Don’t get me wrong, Hamilton does deserve a hockey team. It’s just the mushrooms of the relocation pizza, not holding as much stock as it would like.

Quebec City: Buffalo Chicken

You can’t go wrong with buffalo chicken on pizza (yes, it’s THAT good). Personally, I’m a sucker for the delicacy that can go on nearly anything.

However, some people prefer such a food item to not touch their pizza. They love buffalo chicken, just not on a pie. If you’re a huge fan of buffalo chicken as a concept, but not on pizza, this is for you. This comparison goes to Quebec City, which has a parallel predicament.

Long a popular candidate for relocating the Arizona Coyotes, Quebec City has everything you’d want: a passionate fan base, an NHL-ready arena, and good hockey history with the Nordiques.

So what’s the issue with bringing Quebec a second team? For one, you’d have to rearrange the NHL conferences again. The Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets don’t want to return to the Western Conference. Therefore, they’ll raise a stink about this move if it’s proposed.

Also, Quebec City isn’t a big city compared to, say, Toronto or Montreal. It only houses a metro population of nearly 840,000. Throw in the fact that a significant portion of that population speaks French and the case for Quebec City turns sour.

Still, you can’t go wrong with Quebec getting another team. The Montreal Canadiens would gain another rival and Canada would gain another team. If the circumstances are just right (like buffalo chicken on pizza), that reality will happen one day.

Atlanta: Pineapple

The public is split on whether pineapple belongs on pizza. Is it good? Is it bad? The topic has almost started a civil war in North America, leaving the masses debating for years. Another topic similar to this is whether Atlanta deserves another NHL team.

There’s plenty of controversy regarding whether Atlanta deserves another NHL team, starting with its NHL failures. Back in the 70s, the Atlanta Flames were a thing, playing in the Peach State until 1980. They left for Calgary, with attendance issues being the main reason for relocation.

Then, the Atlanta Thrashers were born in 1999, marking a return for Georgia hockey. Sadly, that also didn’t last long, with the Thrashers’ on-ice struggles (the Thrashers made the playoffs once compared to the Flames making the postseason six times) and poor attendance. As a result, True North Sports bought the team and immediately announced relocation to Winnipeg in 2011.

You can see why hockey fans are skeptical of Atlanta getting another team, specifically with relocation. It would also require re-arranging the NHL yet again. The league underwent a realignment in 2013 (and another in 2020 for COVID reasons) and Bettman isn’t keen on doing it again.

However, there is hope for Georgia hockey fans. Anson Carter has made moves in the business world, purchasing a part of the ECHL team, the Atlanta Gladiators, last October. Guess who’s affiliated with the Gladiators? You guessed it, the Arizona Coyotes.

The TNT broadcaster has expressed interest in getting the NHL back to the Peach State again. With his search for investors happening, it’s brought the controversial topic back to light, similar to the pineapple topping. Does Atlanta deserve another team? The debate rages on.

The post Relocation Spots for the Arizona Coyotes As… Pizza Toppings appeared first on Back Sports Page.