The Aiming Five Hole Hockey Podcast

In a surprising turn of events, the New York Islanders fired Patrick Roy with just four games left in the season, appointing Pete Deboer as his replacement. The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing turmoil both on and off the ice following the firing of GM Brad Treliving and a challenging press conference by MLSE CEO Keith Pelley. On a more positive note, the Montreal Canadiens are pushing to secure the Atlantic Division title, while the Edmonton Oilers, despite being without Leon Draisaitl, are on a winning streak that has them sharing the lead in the Pacific Division. With only two weeks remaining in the NHL season, the race for playoff positioning is intensifying.

In a surprising turn of events, the Las Vegas Knights have fired Bruce Cassidy and brought in John Tortorella in hopes of energizing the team. Questions around the league are being raised about the Toronto Maple Leafs' strategy, particularly why they are not opting for a tank mode similar to the Florida Panthers to safeguard their first-round pick. Additionally, as the playoffs approach, which of the three potential first-round matchups would the Montreal Canadiens prefer: Buffalo, Tampa Bay, or Carolina? The answer to this question could significantly impact the teams' future in the postseason.

We've reached the final stretch of the NHL season, and the playoff races are intensifying. In the Metro division, the Columbus Blue Jackets have emerged as contenders for a top three spot, while the Detroit Red Wings have struggled to keep pace due to key injuries. In the Western Conference, three or four teams are competing for the two Wild Card positions, with the Predators working to fend off the LA Kings. Additionally, another week brings another controversial short suspension, continuing to cast a negative light on the NHL Player Safety Department!

There is a growing consensus that it's time to re-evaluate the Player Safety discipline process after the unacceptable 5-game suspension given to Gudas for his dirty knee-on-knee hit on Matthews last week. This incident highlights the Leafs' season, showcasing their embarrassing responses to their captain's injury from such a blatant hit. As we approach the final stretch of the season, the Habs must focus on cleaning up their game during critical moments to avoid slipping into a wild card position before the playoffs. In other news, Kopitar has made history by becoming the Kings' all-time leading points leader, surpassing Dionne.

Following a somewhat lackluster trade deadline, the Leafs failed to make significant moves to restock their cupboards. The Habs stood pat, while the rest of the league continues to chase Colorado. Don't look now, but Buffalo has gone from the bottom of the East to leading the Atlantic division. After beating the Lightning twice this week, they could be considered the class of the Eastern Division. For some teams, it's the mad dash to the Stanley Cup playoffs, while for others, it's time to focus on solidifying draft positioning.