Summer is here, and let's be honest, unless you're a child who's just been let out of school, it's not fun. With the exception of this weekend's draft and the beginning of free agency July 1, it's even less fun if you're a hockey fan.

Luckily, Comcast Sportsnet is riding to the rescue with re-airings of eight classic Capitals games from the 2011-12 season.

The re-airings will take place over part of the next two weeks, beginning Monday, June 25 and running through June 29 before picking up again on July 2 and continuing through July 5. During the second week, CSN will air Games 1, 3, 4, and 7 of the 2012 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against Boston. After the jump, the four regular season games that CSN has highlighted.

Monday, June 25 at 7 p.m.

Capitals vs. Hurricanes (October 8, 2011) -- Mike Green scores the OT winner in the Caps home opener.

Tuesday, June 26 at 7 p.m.

Capitals vs. Senators (December 3, 2011) -- Brooks Laich's late winner gives Dale Hunter first NHL win.

Wednesday, June 27 at 7 p.m.

Capitals vs. Bruins (January 24, 2012) -- Capitals rally three times before defeating the defending champions.

Thursday, June 28 at 7 p.m.

Capitals vs. Islanders (March 13, 2012) -- Matt Hendricks shows off his ridiculous moves in a 5-4 shootout win.

After another overtime game last night in Boston, the third OT in four games, one has to wonder if the series could be any tighter? This is such a tough series to call as it now comes down to the best two out of three. And it certainly is entertaining.

Boston seems a bit stronger but Chicago has the home town cooking. It's going to be good coming down the stretch.

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Does anyone think the coaching change in New York will improve the Rangers? Not that I am an expert, but I don't see it. And now Mark Messier is upset he didn't get the job? Don't worry "Mess", as long as Glen Sather is GM, they will probably be needing another coach in a couple more years.

In the meantime, two coaches with actual resumes are still looking for a job, Lindy Ruff and John Tortorella. The Dallas Stars are reportedly thinking about them.

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A day after signing Mark Streit to a four year deal, the Flyers announced that they would be buying outDanny Briere's contract. Briere will probably be able to help out someone, but I don't see a fit in Carolina.

The Hurricanes signed Ray Whitney in the summer of 2005 after the winger had been bought out by Detroit. That deal worked out very well for the Canes, and they will be looking at other buyouts closely this summer.

We will look at possible buyouts around the league soon here on the blog and guess which possibilites might fit.

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Elliotte Friedman recently published an article which mentioned that the Canes had been talking to teams about possibly trading down in the draft, pretty much confirming what Jim Rutherford told local media previously. Rutherford will not give that number five spot away though, make no mistake of that. The price will be steep because the projected superstars are in the top grouping.

The article also said:

Another note about the Hurricanes. Word is that "some players who were previously untouchable may no longer be untouchable," according to one source. Apparently, this does not include anyone with the last name Staal. It is going to be a wild summer across the NHL.

Interesting words, but we will see what happens.

In the month and a half since the Montreal Canadiens were eliminated from the playoffs, it has become fairly clear that Robert Rice and myself have quite different draft lists, especially after the top 10 picks. As a result, we thought it would be a useful exercise to combine for a mock draft, rather than publish individual ones as is the case with some websites. Robert decided to take the even numbered picks, leaving me with the odd numbers. It is important to note that these are our predictions of what the various teams will do, rather than our opinions of what would best serve their interests. It is also useful to note that this mock draft was conducted before reports emerged that the Colorado Avalanche would likely take a forward with the number one overall pick, and doesn't include any potential trade scenarios we might see. With that, the Avalanche are on the clock, and Gary Bettman is getting booed. Enjoy.

1. Colorado Avalanche: C Nathan MacKinnon, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)

6'0", 180 lbs, shoots right. 44 GP, 32 G, 43 A, 75 PTS, 45 PIM.

"Having coached against him in the QMJHL, new Avs coach Patrick Roy has seen first hand what the Halifax native can do. Tough to ignore the Denver/Seth Jones connection, but with forwards easier to project, MacKinnon is the right pick." - Arik

2. Florida Panthers: D Seth Jones, Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

6'4", 205 lbs, shoots right. 61 GP, 14 G, 42 A, 56 PTS, 33 PIM.

"Recruiting an elite defencemen is something a team can spend years at but never manage. Florida eagerly picks up the two-way defender who picked up a Gold Medal at the World Juniors and a WHL Championship over the course of the year." - Robert

3. Tampa Bay Lightning: RW Valeri Nichushkin, Traktor Chelyabinsk (KHL)

6'4", 200 lbs, shoots left. 18 GP, 4 G, 2 A, 6 PTS, 0 PIM.

"In recent weeks, the perceived top-3 has molded into a top-4, and reports are that Lightning GM Steve Yzerman is intrigued by the big power forward. Considering his past willingness to make the bold pick and a system already littered with Russians, he sticks with his gut here. A trade down is also possible." - Arik

4. Nashville Predators: LW Jonathan Drouin, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)

5'11", 175 lbs, shoots left. 49 GP, 41 G, 64 A, 105 PTS, 32 PIM.

"Nashville has spent many years lacking a dynamic element to their offence. Aside from a brief time with Alex Radulov, they have never seen anything like a consistent game breaker on their roster. Jonathan Drouin more than fits the bill here, after tearing through the QMJHL like he was still playing minor midget." - Robert

5. Carolina Hurricanes: C Aleksander Barkov, Tappara (SM-Liiga)

6'2", 205 lbs, shoots left. 53 GP, 21 G, 27 A, 48 PTS, 8 PIM.

"GM Jim Rutherford sticks with his organization philosophy of drafting forwards early, and lands the Finnish sensation that just produced one of the greatest draft eligible seasons in SM-liiga history. Could be a staple behind Eric Staal for the decade to come." - Arik

6. Calgary Flames: C Elias Lindholm, Brynas (Elitserien)

6'0", 195 lbs, shoots right. 48 GP, 11 G, 19 A, 30 PTS, 2 PIM.

"Calgary has needs at about every position, but the organization has been bereft of centre talent for over a decade and Lindholm fits the bill. The 2-way centre was the highest-scoring Under-20 player in the Swedish Elite League this past season and picked up a Silver Medal at the World Junior Championships." - Robert

7. Edmonton Oilers: C Sean Monahan, Ottawa 67s (OHL)

6'2", 205 lbs, shoots left. 58 GP, 31 G, 47 A, 78 PTS, 24 PIM.

"While defense is the Oilers' biggest need, depth at centre is not far behind. Monahan's stock fell this year as a combination of the emergence of other top talents and the wretched team he was forced to play with in Ottawa, but he is a fairly safe pick and will likely be an effective top-6 two-way player with offensive production at the NHL level." - Arik

8. Buffalo Sabres: C/LW Max Domi, London Knights (OHL)

5'10", 195 lbs, shoots left. 64 GP, 39 G, 48 A, 87 PTS, 71 PIM.

"A Depletion of offensive talent means Buffalo is in no shape to turn down a smaller forward, especially one with broad offensive talent. Max Domi offers an excellent skills package and could mean the difference for a team looking to regain an offensive punch." - Robert

9. New Jersey Devils: D Darnell Nurse, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

6'5", 200 lbs, shoots left. 68 GP, 12 G, 29 A, 41 PTS, 116 PIM.

"The consensus seems to be that Nurse will go ahead of this, but should he fall, the Devils will have no problem scooping up the big bodied defenseman and letting him develop for a few more years, with an infusion of youth in the system on the blue-line needed." - Arik

10. Dallas Stars: LW Hunter Shinkaruk, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)

5'11", 175 lbs, shoots left. 64 GP, 37 G, 49 A, 86 PTS, 44 PIM.

"Every team in the NHL needs help scoring and Dallas is no stranger to that group. Shinkaruk has been one of the most productive goal scorers in the WHL for the past two seasons and would be a welcome addition to a team looking to get back on it's feet." - Robert

11. Philadelphia Flyers: D Rasmus Ristolainen, TPS (SM-Liiga)

6'3", 205 lbs, shoots right. 52 GP, 3 G, 12 A, 15 PTS, 32 PIM.

"It's no secret that the Flyers need defense, and surprised many by selecting forward Scott Laughton in the first round last year. This time around, they go with the tall, mobile, possibly NHL-ready Finn, who may not have the upside of a Pronger but should be a top-4 minute-eating D for a long time." - Arik

12. Phoenix Coyotes: D Nikita Zadorov, London Knights (OHL)

6'5", 225 lbs, shoots left. 63 GP, 6 G, 19 A, 25 PTS, 54 PIM.

"While he has not producing eye-popping offence, Zadorov offers great size and a matching mean streak and has had many favourable projections for a future offensive jump. Coyotes will bet on his offence growing while guaranteeing a growth in the size and aggression of their defensive depth." - Robert

13. Winnipeg Jets: C Bo Horvat, London Knights (OHL)

6'0", 205 lbs, shoots left. 67 GP, 33 G, 28 A, 61 PTS, 29 PIM.

"In his third draft at the helm of the Jets, GM Kevin Cheveldayoff goes back to Ontario and picks London's last-second hero in the OHL playoffs. Horvat is an enticing all-around presence, but it's unclear how much offense he'll provide at the NHL level." - Arik

14. Columbus Blue Jackets: C Alexander Wennberg, Djurgarden (Allsvenskan)

6'0", 175 lbs, shoots left. 46 GP, 14 G, 18 A, 32 PTS, 14 PIM.

"Newcomer Columbus GM Jarmo Kekelainen is no stranger to Europe and eagerly scoops up one of the most talented players left on the board. One of the most universally-ranked players at this area of the draft, Wennberg's 200-foot play and solid offensive skills make him an easy choice." - Robert

15. New York Islanders: D Mirco Mueller, Everett Silvertips (WHL)

6'4", 190 lbs, shoots left. 63 GP, 6 G, 25 A, 31 PTS, 57 PIM.

"Islanders GM Garth Snow has a history of going a little bit off the board with mid-first round picks, and this is no exception. With guys like Pulock and Morrissey still available, Snow goes with the Swiss-born defenseman out of the WHL, who has been rising up draft boards of late." - Arik

16. Buffalo Sabres: D Ryan Pulock, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

6'1", 210 lbs, shoots right. 61 GP, 14 G, 31 A, 45 PTS, 22 PIM.

"One of the top offensive defencmen in the draft, Buffalo GM Darcy Regier will get to work restocking his defensive depth with the prospect packing likely the most explosive slap shot in the draft. Pulock's quick hands and cerebral game project well for a pro career." - Robert

17. Ottawa Senators: LW Andre Burakowsky, Malmo (Allsvenskan)

6'1", 175 lbs, shoots left. 43 GP, 4 G, 7 A, 11 PTS, 8 PIM.

"It's not a stretch to suggest that one of the two teams with the largest history of success in Sweden, Ottawa and Detroit (picking back-to-back) will select Burakowsky, a skilled winger that scouts have ranked anywhere from the early teens to the early second round." - Arik

18. Detroit Red Wings: LW Valentin Zykov, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL) - see profile

6'1", 215 lbs, shoots right. 67 GP, 40 G, 35 A, 75 PTS, 60 PIM.

"Detroit is eager to add skill to their system with an aging core, leaving Zykov an easy decision for GM Ken Holland. Zykov's solid skills package and impressive first season playing in North America compliments a system that has recently added talents like Martin Frk and Tomas Jurco." - Robert

19. Columbus Blue Jackets: D Josh Morrissey, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL) - see profile

6'0", 185 lbs, shoots left. 70 GP, 15 G, 32 A, 47 PTS, 91 PIM.

"Kekelainen dips into the WHL to select Prince Albert's offensive blue-liner Morrissey, who packs a physical punch in a slightly undersized package. He could be an exciting powerplay quarterback and top-4 contributor in a few years." - Arik

20. San Jose Sharks: D Robert Hagg, Modo (Eliteserien)

6'2", 205 lbs, shoots left. 27 GP, 0 G, 1 A, 1 PT, 2 PIM.

"San Jose's defensive depth runs a bit thin, leading them to address an organizational need more than they might in another year. Hagg's skating, offensive skills and physical nature make him a well-rounded choice for GM Doug Wilson." - Robert

21. Toronto Maple Leafs: LW Anthony Mantha, Val-d'Or Foreurs (QMJHL) - see profile

6'3", 200 lbs, shoots left. 67 GP, 50 G, 39 A, 89 PTS, 71 PIM.

"GM Dave Nonis jumps at the chance to select a 50-goal scorer from the QMJHL who combines a power-forward's body with a sniper's shot and mentality. If Mantha drops this low I could also see teams itching to trade up and select him." - Arik

22. Calgary Flames: RW Adam Erne, Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)

6'1", 200 lbs, shoots left. 68 GP, 28 G, 44 A, 72 PTS, 67 PIM.

"Calgary decides to add power by picking up Adam Erne. The speedy power body who led the Remparts in points this past season has no problem going hard to the net or throwing a hit and can play defence as well." -Robert

23. Washington Capitals: D Steven Santini, US NTDP

6'1", 210 lbs, shoots right. 65 GP, 0 G, 15 A, 15 PTS, 46 PIM.

"GM George McPhee looks to add grit and depth on the backend with a guy who won best defenseman at this year's U18 championships, a feat accomplished in the last five years by the likes of Erik Karlsson and Cam Fowler." - Arik

24. Vancouver Canucks: RW Ryan Hartman, Plymouth Whalers (OHL)

5'11", 190 lbs, shoots right. 56 GP, 23 G, 37 A, 60 PTS, 120 PIM.

"Sometimes the best player left is also the player you need the most, as Vancouver has an ongoing struggle with secondary scoring. Hartman is the best player available to address such concerns and GM Mike Gillis selects a power forward with a quick stride and quick hands to boost the team's scoring depth." - Robert

25. Montreal Canadiens: D Samuel Morin, Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL) - see profile

6'6", 205 lbs, shoots left. 46 GP, 4 G, 12 A, 16 PTS, 117 PIM.

"The Canadiens draft the big mobile defenseman to fill both an organizational need - size - and as the best player available at this spot. Morin shined at the U-18s for Canada, and some scouts have him ranked as high as 10th, believing in his budding offensive potential." - Arik

Note: Robert wasn't so thrilled about this pick.

26. Anaheim Ducks: D Madison Bowey, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

6'1", 195 lbs, shoots right. 69 GP, 12 G, 18 A, 30 PTS, 75 PIM.

"With a respectable core of offensive talent, Anaheim looks to bolster a defensive depth that has been badly depleted by the losses of Jake Gardiner and Justin Schultz. Madison Bowey will add a mobile two-way prescence to the Anaheim system that is desperately needed." - Robert

27. Columbus Blue Jackets: C Curtis Lazar, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

6'0", 200 lbs, shoots right. 72 GP, 28 G, 23 A, 61 PTS, 47 PIM.

"With their third pick of the round, the Blue Jackets snatch up a hard-working two-way centre who has been projected by some to go in the early teens. His offensive potential may not be as vast as some other picks, but he's about as much of a lock as there is to make the NHL." - Arik

28. Calgary Flames: D Chris Bigras, Owen Sound Attack (OHL)

6'1", 190 lbs, shoots left. 68 GP, 8 G, 30 A, 38 PTS, 34 PIM.

"Calgary could use a boost to their defensive depth and Bigras is one of the best defencemen left on the board. The all-situation player projects to a top-4 defensive spot in the NHL, making him a very respectable choice for a team rebuilding all aspects of their organization." - Robert

29 (or 30). Dallas Stars: C Frederik Gauthier, Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL)

6'4", 215 lbs, shoots left. 62 GP, 22 G, 38 A, 60 PTS, 26 PIM

"New GM Jim Nill goes with a mammoth two-way centre who has scouts raving about his compete level, defensive awareness, and ability to use his size to score timely goals. While he will never be a top scorer at the NHL level, he could well be a good second or third line guy." - Arik

30 (or 29). Chicago Blackhawks: LW Morgan Klimchuk, Regina Pats (WHL)

5'11", 180 lbs, shoots left. 72 GP, 36 G, 40 A, 76 PTS, 20 PIM

"Chicago's push to stay as one of the most skilled teams in the NHL is well served by adding the lightning-quick Klimchuk. Klimchuk's quick feet and hands, mixed with a fearless attitude make him a well-suited addition to a team that is built to outskate their opposition." - Robert

Check back soon for Round 2 of our mock draft, where we see if Robert gets his revenge by selecting players I don't like with the 34th and 36th overall picks. You can also check out Robert's Intro and my Intro to the NHL draft. More intrigue to come.

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the nineteenth overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Jarmo Kekäläinen: With the nineteenth overall selection in this years draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (12 NA), ISS (14), TSN (30), Hockey Prospectus (12)

Hockey Prospectus:

Finding the perfect spot for Pulock was difficult. Some scouts consider him to be a top-eight player in this draft, whereas others prefer him in the 11-15 range. Despite concerns, he has been one of the WHL's top offensive defensemen for the past three seasons. He tied for the points lead among all Wheat Kings this year. His best tool is his shot, which is elite, and NHL teams will utilize it atop the umbrella on their first power play unit.

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Community Draft Board

Despite justifiably earning a bottom-third designation in most organizationalrankings, the Sharks' prospect cupboard is relatively well-stocked with players who reasonably project as depth forwards at the NHL level. From Matt Nieto to Freddie Hamilton to Sean Kuraly to Chris Tierney to Danny O'Regan, the Sharks likely won't have much of an issue picking quality third- and fourth-liners off the farm in the future. Some of those forwards (Nieto and O'Regan in particular) might even fit into an NHL team's top six one day but Tomas Hertl remains the only true blue-chipper up front in the San Jose pipeline.

Given that Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau are both well on the wrong side of 30 and likely to decline, that's a problem for the Sharks. It's also a problem that might not easily be solved with the 20th overall pick San Jose has in next week's NHL Entry Draft in Newark. With Hertl and Charlie Coyle, the Sharks' scouting staff has had some recent success in finding promising forwards late in the first round but the overall historical numbers aren't pretty; players drafted in the 14th-25th overall range have about a 29.3% chance of becoming an impact NHLer (defined for forwards as playing at least 200 big-league games while scoring at a 0.5 points-per-game clip or better). Unsurprisingly, the hit rate is considerably higher for top-five picks, one of which the Carolina Hurricanes just might be dangling:

According to Joe Sakic, Colorado will not be taking highly-touted defenseman Seth Jones with the first overall pick but you can rest assured that someone in the top four will snag him. That guarantees at least one of Nathan MacKinnon, Jonathan Drouin, Aleksander Barkov and Valeri Nichushkin will be available at 5th overall. Any of those forwards would constitute the best prospect the Sharks have drafted since Marleau and would go a long way towards replacing the offense San Jose stands to lose with the decline, retirement or exodus via free agency of the top two scorers in franchise history. So what would they need to offer to get Jim Rutherford's attention?

Analysis of every trade made on the draft floor between 2006 and 2012 suggests that the 5th overall pick is about equivalent in value to the 20th, which the Sharks currently hold, and 18th combined. Since the Hurricanes are reportedly seeking a defenseman, the question is whether a piece on the San Jose blueline has roughly as much value to them as an 18th overall selection. Surely Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Dan Boyle are worth far more than that but it makes zero sense for the Sharks to shed either of their top two defensemen for a prospect, no matter how talented, when they're set up well to be competitive next season. Would any of the Sharks' trio of less experienced defensemen in Justin Braun, Matt Irwin and Jason Demers be enough to get a trade done from Carolina's perspective? Is there any chance Brad Stuart generates interest as a potential upgrade on what the Hurricanes lost when Bryan Allen bolted for Anaheim last summer?

I'm guessing the answer is no on all four counts, particularly if a bidding war erupts for the pick. And it's entirely possible Jim Rutherford, who historically avoids defensemen like the plague in the first round, would be averse to moving the pick if Barkov or Nichushkin is still on the board. Still, this is the type of discussion that makes sense for the Sharks to be engaging in and seems to fit in with resetting or rebooting or rebuilding-on-the-fly or whatever name is being assigned to the process Doug Wilson began at the trade deadline. At least on paper, the Sharks appear to have the second round picks and moveable roster players necessary to move up next Sunday, even if the 5th overall pick isn't a viable option. If they're looking to avoid a prolonged period of mediocrity, it strikes me as crucial that the Sharks are able to add a high-end forward prospect to their pipeline in this draft and taking a risk to move into the upper echelon of the first round seems likely to be worthwhile.

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twentieth overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Doug Wilson: With the twentieth overall selection in this years draft, the San Jose Sharks' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (20 NA), ISS (12), TSN (32), Hockey Prospectus (29)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Lazar is a well-rounded forward, with the benefit of having one of the smallest risk factors in this draft (in terms of probability of becoming an NHL player). He is an above-average skater who can flash plus ability in that area. He covers a lot of ice due to his tremendous work ethic, as he is always moving his feet. He can change gears quickly, and he picks up speed well."

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Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-first overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Dave Nonis: With the twenty-first overall selection in this years draft, the Toronto Maple Leafs' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (6 EUR), ISS (16), TSN (58), Hockey Prospectus (13)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Burakowsky struggled to get ice time in the second-tier Swedish pro league at the beginning of the season, but his fine form in international play has been encouraging. One NHL executive said that Burakowsky's skating is comparable to some of the top Swedes to come out of the draft recently. He gains efficient power from his stride, and he has a great top gear. His skill level allows him to regularly make above-average to high-end dekes and passes. He has the look of a skilled puck possessor with every shift."

AIH Draft Board

Community Draft Board

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-second overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Jay Feaster: With the twenty-second overall selection in this years draft, the Calgary Flames' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (11 NA), ISS (NA), TSN (47), Hockey Prospectus (30)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Theodore is an offensive defenseman who possesses many tools. He put up big numbers at age 16, and although he did not match that pace at age 17, he was still very good. He is a dynamic skater, with a powerful stride that lets him pick up speed quickly. He can be a real threat when rushing the puck up the ice. He thinks the game so well in the offensive end, displaying a high level of ability with the puck. Theodore can dangle, but he is more of an instinctual passer, whether on outlets or controlling the point on the power play. He possesses a big shot as well."

AIH Draft Board

Community Draft Board

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-third overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

George McPhee: With the twenty-third overall selection in this years draft, the Washington Capitals' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (21 NA), ISS (NA), TSN (56), Hockey Prospectus (40)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Lodge is a skilled forward, who developed well over the 2012-13 OHL campaign, as he exceeded one point per game. He is not a finished product by any means, but he has a significant amount of upside. He has high-end puck skills, conveying the overall look of a skilled player. He is very coordinated in his puck handling, with the ability to make top-level plays. Lodge has good offensive instincts, manifesting both in his puck creativity and in his gifted passing and crisp distributions. He can execute difficult plays. He is a solid to above-average skater as well."

AIH Draft Board

Community Draft Board

DUCKS NEWS

• Our Fearless Leader has already written a post about this, but The Farm Club has another piece about Ducks who might potentially participate in the 2014 Olympics. [The Farm Club]
• TSN's offseason game plan for the Ducks. [TSN]
• Teemu Selanne is NHL.com's best-ever Number 10 draft pick. [NHL.com]
• The Ducks have no buyouts planned. [Pro Hockey Talk]
• Pucks of a Feather profiles Hampus Lindholm. [Pucks of a Feather]
• The Ducks website has written a profile of Ryan Getzlaf. [Anaheim Ducks]
• Pucks of a Feather has also written a profile of Emerson Etem. (This is the last profile in their Top 20 Ducks Prospects series). [Pucks of a Feather]

AROUND THE NHL

• The Maple Leafs have acquired Los Angeles Kings backup goalie Jonathan Bernier in exchange for forward Matt Frattin and goalie Ben Scrivens. [NHL.com]
• Lighthouse Hockey discusses 5 UFAs that are currently slated to leave the New York Islanders this offseason. Are we interested in poaching anyone? [Lighthouse Hockey]
• The 2013 draft will be vital to the Carolina Hurricanes. [Canes Country]

How are the Hurricanes picks from last year doing? Are they close or far away from contributing to the big club?

I was asked this question last week, so let's take a look at each selection and check on their progress.

Phillip Di Giuseppe LW (picked 38th overall)

After scoring 11 goals and 15 assists during his freshman year at the University of Michigan, he followed that up last season by scoring nine goals and 19 assists. Since he has not signed with the Canes yet, look for him to return to Michigan again next season and continue to develop.

Brock McGinn LW (picked 47th overall)

McGinn had a very good season for Guelph last year, (68GP 28G 26A) and was signed in April to an entry level deal. He played four games for the Checkers at the end of last year. The winger will be in training camp looking for a position in the fall.

Daniel Altshuller G (picked 69th overall)

This huge goalie, (6'4) improved upon his stats last year in Oshawa. After starting 30 games and going 11-16-3 in his rookie campaign, he started 58 games last season and went 36-18-2, while posting three shutouts. He also improved his save percentage from .900 to .909.

Erik Karlsson LW (picked 99th overall)

In his draft year, Karlsson scored 14 goals and 19 assists in 47 games for Frolunda in the under 20 super elite league. Last season he scored 10 goals and 25 assists in just 40 games for the same team.

Trevor Carrick D (picked 115th overall)

The Mississauga defenseman went from a six goal, 13 assist season in 68 games during his draft year to scoring 10 goals and 21 assists in 12 fewer games last season.

Jacob Slavin D (picked 120th overall)

Slavin posted similar numbers last season as he did during his draft year for the Chicago Steel in the USHL. (62GP 5G 28A 33P). He has committed to Colorado College next season.

Brendan Woods LW (picked 129th overall)

Last season, Woods scored five goals and seven assists in 41 games for the Wisconsin Badgers. The winger surprised his coach when he signed an entry level deal with the Hurricanes in April. He played two games for the Checkers so far and will be looking to make the Canes or will return to Charlotte next season.

Collin Olsen G (picked 159 overall)

Another good sized goalie at 6'3, he played just nine games for Ohio State in his freshman year last season and posted a record of 2-3-1 with a save percentage of .901.

Brendan Collier LW (189th overall)

After an all star high school career, Collier scored 14 goals and 28 assists in 43 games during his first season in the EJHL last season. He has committed to Boston University next season.

(My shot at a mock draft will be posted tomorrow morning)

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-fourth overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Mike Gillis: With the twenty-fourth overall selection in this years draft, the Vancouver Canucks' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (16 NA), ISS (NA), TSN (26), Hockey Prospectus (42)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Hartman is a do-it-all type player who can provide significant two-way value despite being a tad undersized, at around 5'11". He is smart, and he makes creative plays in both puck handling and passing. He is a very aware defensive player, as he makes great reads, and he will provide value in his own end at both even strength and the penalty kill. Hartman is a hard worker, which adds to his defensive value. On the forecheck, he can deliver good pressure, and the occasional big hit. He has decent, if not solid speed. He lacks the blazing top gear that a player with below-average size would optimally possess, but his skating is acceptable. Hartman will create from the perimeter, drive the net, and play tough defensive situations."

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Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-fifth overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Marc Bergevin: With the twenty-fifth overall selection in this years draft, the Montreal Canadiens' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (34 NA), ISS (26), TSN (34), Hockey Prospectus (25)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Compher is the top prospect to emerge from the USA development program in this draft (keeping in mind that Seth Jones played for the USNTDP last year). He is a great all-around player, above average or better at just about every area of the game, despite his 5'11" frame. He is a good skater who picks up speed well, and he has a high-energy element in his play. He forechecks and backchecks with speed, pressuring the opposition, while showing no hesitation to bang bodies. He is very skilled, with above-average puck skills and offensive instincts. On occasion, he will show elements of true offensive flash. He can make individual plays, and he tends to find his teammates well."

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Come Sunday, a whole new crop of players will be added from the amateur ranks to NHL rosters. As we count down the days before the draft, let's take a look at where and when players who are currently Panthers-property were drafted. Most of the players on this list are under contract and expected to be regulars next season. Some of the prospects on the list closed the 2013 season with the big-league club. I am also including current RFA's and UFA's (just to get a better look at how last year's team was constructed) as well as recent signee Bobby Butler.

Forwards:

Tomas Fleischmann: 2nd round (63rd overall) Detroit Red Wings (2002)

Jonathan Huberdeau: 1st round (3rd overall) Florida Panthers (2011)

Kris Versteeg: 5th round (134rd overall) Boston Bruins (2004)

Tomas Kopecky: 2nd round (38th overall) Detroit Red Wings (2000)

Marcel Goc: 1st round (20th overall) San Jose Sharks (2001)

Scottie Upshall: 1st round (6th overall) Nashville Predators (2002)

Sean Bergenheim: 1st round (22nd overall) New York Islanders (2002)

George Parros: 8th round (222nd overall) Los Angeles Kings (1999)

Drew Shore: 2nd round (44th overall) Florida Panthers (2009)

Nick Bjugstad: 1st round (19th overall) Florida Panthers (2010)

Quinton Howden: 1st round (25th overall) Florida Panthers (2010)

Peter Mueller (RFA): 1st round (8th overall) Phoenix Coyotes (2006)

Jack Skille (RFA): 1st round (7th overall) Chicago Blackhawks (2005)

Shawn Matthias (RFA): 2nd round (47th overall) Detroit Red Wings (2006)

Bobby Butler.: undrafted - signed as a free agent Ottawa Senators (2010)

Eric Selleck: undrafted - signed as a free agent Florida Panthers (2010)

Stephen Weiss (UFA): 1st round (4th overall) Florida Panthers (2001)

Defensemen:

Brian Campbell: 6th round (156th overall) Buffalo Sabres (1997)

Dmitry Kulikov: 1st round (14th overall) Florida Panthers (2009)

Filip Kuba: 8th round (192nd overall) Florida Panthers (1995)

Ed Jovanovski: 1st round (1st overall) Florida Panthers (1994)

Mike Weaver: undrafted - signed as a free agent Atlanta Thrashers (2000)

Erik Gudbranson: 1st round (3rd overall) Florida Panthers (2010)

Colby Robak: 2nd round (46th overall) Florida Panthers (2008)

Alex Petrovic: 2nd round (36th overall) Florida Panthers (2010)

Tyson Strachan (UFA): 5th round (137 overall) Carolina Hurricanes (2003)

Goaltenders:

Jacob Markstrom: 2nd round (31st overall) Florida Panthers (2008)

Scott Clemmensen: 8th round (215th overall) New Jersey Devils (1997)

Jose Theodore: 2nd round (44th overall) Montreal Canadiens (1994)

By Round:

1st round: 12

2nd round: 8

3rd round: 0

4th round: 0

5th round: 2

6th round: 1

7th round: 0

8th round: 3

undrafted: 3

Looking over the list reveals the expected, that most NHL rosters are stocked with players taken high in the draft. We also see one of the main areas that the Panthers have failed in over the years, finding quality players in the third and fourth rounds of the draft. We also see an inability to pluck and develop late-round gems. A positive we starting to see as we progress through the Tallon era is an increase in the number of homegrown players filling the roster. One thing that stuck out to me is that with four players from the first 36 choices, the 2010 draft could have a big impact on the future success or failure of the "blueprint".

(Disclaimer: Here is my annual attempt at a mock draft. I will try to use some reasoning behind these picks, but of course anything can happen come draft day. This is difficult enough, so I am not going to attempt any trades this time around. Sit back, enjoy, and feel free to pick them apart!)

1. Colorado: Nathan MacKinnon - As it turns out, Joe Sakic was not bluffing. The Avs cannot resist but select the consensus number one rated player. They will worry about their over-crowded center ice later.

2. Florida: Aleksander Barkov - The Panthers need to find a replacement for Stephen Weiss and Barkov will fill the bill. Offense is more of an issue than defense, at the moment. Barkov's superior size gives him the nod over Drouin.

3. Tampa Bay: Seth Jones - The Lightning are more than happy to take Jones here and feel that he will fit nicely on the blueline with Victor Hedman.

4. Nashville: Jonathan Drouin - The Preds need offense and Drouin brings it in spades.

5. Carolina: Sean Monahan - My gut says that the Canes will stay in their comfort zone and select the OHL standout. Monahan is about as complete a player as there is in the draft and can contribute on the powerplay, penalty kill, in the faceoff circle, and at both ends of the ice. It's no secret that the Canes like OHL draft picks so I look for them to continue their tradition and attempt to fill the third line center position with this selection.

6. Calgary: Elias Lindholm - The Flames wanted Monahan but won't be too disappointed in settling for the Swede.

7. Edmonton: Valeri Nichushkin - The Oilers won't pass this pick by and are drooling at the thought of a line combo comprised of Nichushkin and Nail Yakupov.

8. Buffalo: Max Domi - The Sabres need some high end offense and reach a bit here to get a smallish guy, but someone with 100% hustle and who has the ability to score.

9. New Jersey: Darnell Nurse - The home crowd should cheer this pick as the Devils choose one of the most physical defensemen in the draft.

10. Dallas: Hunter Shinkaruk - Here is another kid that can light the lamp, so the Stars grab him up.

11. Philadelphia: Rasmus Ristolainen - Some scouts have him as the best overall blueliner in the draft not named Jones.

12. Phoenix: Bo Horvat - The Yotes are also looking for scoring and pick up a highly regarded center at this spot.

13. Winnipeg: Frederik Gauthier - This huge 6'5 forward is ranked all over the place but the Jets will take a chance on him.

14. Columbus: Anthony Mantha - Not often you can select a 50 goal scorer at number 14, but the Jackets will do so here.

15. New York Islanders: Ryan Pulock - There are several highly rated defensemen still available, but this guy has a shot that could make fans forget about Mark Streit.

16. Buffalo: Adam Erne - The Sabres select another feisty forward, this one with a little more size than Domi.

17. Ottawa: Nikita Zadorov - The Sens are loaded with prospects but hope this giant of a blueliner will turn into another Zdeno Chara.

18. Detroit: Alexander Wennberg - Since when are the Wings shy about drafting a Swedish center?

19. Columbus: Valentin Zykov - This guy has been moving up and is ranked higher on some charts.

20. San Jose: Samuel Morin - At 6'6, he's a project worth waiting a year or two for.

21. Toronto: Andre Burokowsky - The Swedish winger could turn out to be a real value at this spot.

22. Calgary: Josh Morrissey - In time, this kid could add the offense that the Flames need from the blueline.

23. Washington: Steve Santini - Steady USA product could fit in well with Caps.

24. Vancouver: Mirco Mueller - The Canucks are happy this defenseman is still available and take him here.

25. Montreal: Robert Hagg - Smooth Swedish blueliner might play for Habs sooner than later.

26. Anaheim: Curtis Lazar - The Ducks go with the best on their chart and he is rated much higher on some.

27. Columbus: Kerby Rychel - Gritty forward could be just what Jackets need.

28. Calgary: Zach Fucale - Top rated goalie in draft might go here.

29. Dallas: JT Compher - This USA product can skate and score.

30. Chicago: Morgan Klimchuk - On the small side but he can light the lamp.

(Tomorrow, I will give some second and third round possibilities for Carolina.)

My initial reaction to the Chicago Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup, as some of you have already read, was:

Oh, what's that? The Western Conference is still better than the Eastern Conference?

— jer (@JerMeansWell) June 25, 2013

Obviously we all know that the Western Conference is a much more difficult conference to play in. The competition is better, the travel is harder, and it houses California, the best state in the nation and the home of hockey. We know that the Western Conference is just better, but can we prove it? Let's take a look at all of the Stanley Cup champions since the 1993-94 season, when Eastern/Western first replaced Wales/Campbell (Eastern Conference in red, Western in blue):

Wow, that sure is a lot of blue. The Western Conference has produced a champion 11 times to the Eastern Conference's 8. In other words, the Western Conference proves what we already know to be true nearly 60% of the time.

You can break it down to pre or post 2004-05 lockout, and the Western comes out on top either way. No matter how the game evolves, the Western Conference teams adapt and outshine their weaker Eastern Conference counterparts.

Maybe it's just a fluke and the Western Conference teams have just gotten really lucky in the playoffs? Let's glance at the regular season results. For the same timeframe as above, here are the Presidents' Trophy winners for each season:

The Western Conference beats out the Eastern Conference 15 times to 4, or nearly 80% of the time.

When you look at how pathetic the Eastern Conference is, and how it clearly lacks the heart and discipline it takes to be champions, it's pretty shocking. The East-Coast bias of the NHL and hockey media that we know all too well is likely just an attempt to keep the illusion that they have a competitive conference worthy of NHL play out East, but you can't argue with fact.

You can't really blame teams like the Red Wings for wanting to bail on the Western Conference. Just as Detroit is in a performance decline, they're able to join a weaker conference where they can once again be seen as a dominant force. But is there any honor in that? Any random ECHL team could surely be a dominant force in the Eastern Conference; that doesn't mean they play good hockey.

Nonetheless, congratulations to the 2013 Stanley Cup Champions, Chicago Blackhawks, as well as their fans.

And congratulations to the Western Conference, which has once again proved to be the far superior force in the NHL.

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-sixth overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Bob Murray: With the twenty-sixth overall selection in this years draft, the Anaheim Ducks' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (8 EUR), ISS (NA), TSN (48), Hockey Prospectus (21)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Hagg is a really gifted defenseman who progressed as the season went on, going from the junior league to playing in the SEL although his performance was up and down throughout the campaign. Hagg has a real easiness to his game. He is a high-end skater, possessing an effortless stride and quick acceleration. He appears to glide when he is on the ice, with a high amount of offensive ability. He makes quality rushes, and he displays great puck movement in every zone. He is not a flashy puck handler, but he has good subtle hands, with the ability to make open ice maneuvers. He has a big shot from the point, and several NHL sources indicate that he frequently relies on that asset."

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The Chicago Blackhawks are the 2013 Stanley Cup champions, after a sensational late 3rd-period comeback that saw the Hawks snatch victory away from the Boston Bruins just as they were poised to force a Game 7. Hmm... didn't we just talk about stunning reversals of fortune here recently?

Anyway, no sooner does the quest for the 2013 Stanley Cup end, than the chase for the 2014 Stanley Cup begins. Starting tomorrow night, teams can buy players out of contracts in order to clear up cap space, and on Sunday, the NHL Draft will likely see a flurry of trade activity as GM's prepare for the free agency market, which opens on July 5th.

Naturally, the odds makers are ready to do business, and Bovada has laid out their initial odds for next year's NHL championship:

Odds to win the 2014 Stanley Cup

PittsburghPenguins 13/2

Chicago Blackhawks 15/2

Boston Bruins 9/1

St. LouisBlues 12/1

Los AngelesKings 14/1

VancouverCanucks 14/1

DetroitRed Wings 16/1

New YorkRangers 16/1

San JoseSharks 16/1

AnaheimDucks 20/1

TorontoMaple Leafs 25/1

WashingtonCapitals 25/1

MontrealCanadiens 28/1

CarolinaHurricanes 33/1

EdmontonOilers 33/1

MinnesotaWild 33/1

New YorkIslanders 33/1

OttawaSenators 33/1

PhiladelphiaFlyers 33/1

ColoradoAvalanche 40/1

ColumbusBlue Jackets 40/1

NashvillePredators 40/1

New JerseyDevils 40/1

TampaBayLightning 40/1

WinnipegJets 40/1

BuffaloSabres 50/1

CalgaryFlames 50/1

Dallas Stars 50/1

PhoenixCoyotes 50/1

FloridaPanthers 100/1

So, Nashville Predators fans, how do you like those odds? Personally, I think they're right about where I'd put them at this moment - 30/1 would represent an average NHL team's chance to win it all. Given the Preds' finish last season, and the likely influx of youth into the lineup up front, placing them just a notch below "average" seems about right.

Obviously we hope that a few holes get patched up and the team is ready to compete coming out of the gate this fall, but do these odds have you thinking about setting aside the mortgage payment and calling your bookie?

Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-seventh overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Jarmo Kekäläinen: With the twenty-seventh overall selection in this years draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (9 NA), ISS (19), TSN (37), Hockey Prospectus (19)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Zykov was one of this season's biggest surprises. He did not come into the QMJHL as an elite scoring prospect, but he really flourished at Baie-Comeau. He is a skilled player, showing nice touch with the puck. He is able to make plays in tight spaces, flashing high-end skill at times. He can distribute the puck at a quality level, showing quick decision-making, with good offensive instincts. Zykov's intriguing element is his physicality. He is quite strong for a U-18 player, and he is proficient at shielding the puck and driving the net."

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Hey all! Welcome to another instalment of Arctic Ice Hockey's annual NHL Mock Draft.

Over the next thirty days, we will attempt to telepathically channel the minds of NHL General Managers as they complete their final rankings in preparation for the 2013 NHL Draft being held June 30, 2012 in Newark, NJ.

Without further adieu, we present our loyal readers with the twenty-eighth overall pick of Arctic Ice Hockey's 2013 Mock Draft.

Jay Feaster: With the twenty-eighth overall selection in this years draft, the Calgary Flames' are pleased to select...

Rankings: CSS (1 NA), ISS (NA), TSN (7), Hockey Prospectus (93)

Hockey Prospectus:

"Fucale burst onto the scene as a 16-year-old for Halifax, taking on an unusual amount of CHL responsibility for such a young goaltender. This year, he was one of the top goalies in the QMJHL, and he certainly has several interesting qualities, such as his hockey sense and panic threshold. For a U-18 goaltender, he looks very advanced and collected in net. His movements are very subtle, and he squares up pucks well. He has quick, powerful feet that allow him to move across the crease and position himself efficiently."

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