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.

The NHL season has resumed, but it seems the Leafs missed the memo, delivering three lackluster performances right out of the gate. This raises the question: Are Berube's days numbered? How many players will they move this week? On a brighter note, the Buffalo Sabres their impressive streak, securing three significant wins against Eastern Division rivals. As the NHL Trade Deadline approaches, Canada's Stanley Cup hopes are on Montreal—will they make any moves to bolster their Cup aspirations? Additionally, can Edmonton navigate their salary cap challenges to enhance their defense and or scoring depth issues? With the trade deadline looming, what other significant moves can we expect from contenders before Friday?

Congratulations to the US Men's and Women's Hockey teams on their gold medal wins. We always knew they'd eventually win a big one over the Canadians, we just hoped it wasn't going to be this time! What an epic couple of gold medal games, that can only help grow the game of hockey! Ok, back to the NHL as the season resumes on Wednesday night and the sprint to the playoffs begins! With the trade deadline only 12 days away, who will be buyers and who will be sellers in an effort to strengthen their team for the push to the playoffs and a run to the Stanley Cup!

The Olympic hockey tournament has wrapped up the round robin stage, revealing some unexpected outcomes in pool play. Team Canada and Team US have emerged as the top two seeds, setting the stage for a potential showdown and rematch in the final. As we look ahead, the NHL trade deadline is just two weeks away. It's a crucial time for teams, particularly the Leafs and Habs, as they consider their strategies and moves before the deadline.

The Leafs have had a challenging week and it may be time for them to consider becoming sellers. Questions arise about the leadership within the team. In contrast, the Habs secured significant wins against the Knights and Avs, strengthening their position in the playoff standings. While Matthews and Nylander appear to be lacking in leadership, Celebrini is demonstrating why he is destined to become the next face of the NHL.

It was a challenging week for both the Leafs and Habs, leading Phil and Ryan to seek solace on the therapy couch. Meanwhile, the Sabres continue to surge up the standings, and Roy is once again showcasing his unorthodox coaching strategies. Injuries are impacting several Olympic Hockey rosters, with team Sweden facing the most significant challenges!