The Summer Tournaments of 2017 have come to an end, as have the exhibition games and the preseason. The long awaited 2017/18 WCHL Season is here at last! The season will begin on Friday the 13th of October, 2017. Each team will play 58 games. The top 8 teams in each division will make the playoffs. Each playoff series will be in a best-of-7 format.

The Quebec Compatriotes are in high spirits after beating Buffalo 3-2 in their first ever game. Their first shot was a long backhander from Matt Henry, who also shored their first ever goal in similar fashion. 

The Nanaimo Inferno's first ever game was played today. They ended up falling short, losing 3-1 to Puget Sound. 

Their first shot was a backhander from Gordon Schwartz, and their first goal was scored by Henry Michele who deflected his shot off Snappers D-man Adam Naba.

Two new teams will join the WCHL starting in the 2017 Summer Tournament, the Quebec Compatriotes and the Nanaimo Inferno.

The Columbia Knights have lost forward Braydon Modez to a 2 game suspension following his 4 minute minor penalty for slashing the shins of Memphis forward Isaac Coert. The Knights lost 3-2. He will miss the Knights preliminary games against the Las Vegas Cowboys and the Anaheim Cougars.

1. Puget Sound Snappers (16-9-2) E

2. New Orleans Sea Dragons (15-7-4) +5

3. Klamath Falls Wild Wings (15-8-3) +6

4. Lake Superior Senators (15-8-3) +8

5. Hamilton Canadians (15-8-3) -3

6. Redding Royals (15-9-1) -2

7. Lexington Thunder (14-11-3) -4

8. San Francisco (12-10-6) +2

9. Las Vegas Cowboys (13-12-3) +12

10. Philadelphia Phantoms (13-12-2) -3

11. Naperville Nighthawks (12-11-4) +7

12. Cincinnati Cyclops (12-11-3) +7

13. Red Deer Rangers (12-11-3) +1

14. Columbia Knights (12-11-3) -1

15. Birmingham Blades (12-11-3) -10

16. Buffalo Bisons (11-10-5) +1

17. Memphis Rogues (11-10-5) -2

18. Anaheim Cougars (11-10-5) -2

19. Moose Jaw Oilers (11-11-5) -8

20. Utah Falcons (11-11-4) -12

21. Denver Trout (11-13-3) -1

22. Minnesota Lakers (9-16-2) +5

23. Missouri Militia (8-15-3) +1

24. Greensboro Giants (8-16-2) -2

25. Reno Riot (8-16-2) +3

26. Rhode Island Villains (8-16-2) -3

27. Stamford Tigers (8-16-2) -1

28. South Bend Blackhawks (7-16-2) -3

Biggest Improvements:

Las Vegas (+12)

Lake Superior (+8)

Naperville (+7)

Biggest Slumps:

Utah (-12)

Birmingham (-10)

Moose Jaw (-8)

The 2017 WCHL All-Star Game will be played on January 29th, 2017. It will be between Team East and Team West in the Bill Edmund Memorial Arena in Hamilton. The rosters will be announced on January 8th, 2017.

Richmond Maple Leafs owner Ryan Roddell has announced his choice of General Manager. Darren Broucke is the man for the job. 

POWER RANKINGS: TOP 8

1: Puget Sound Snappers (8-5-1)

2: Hamilton Canadians (8-5-1)

3: Lexington Thunder (7-4-1)

4: Redding Royals (7-4-1)

5: Birmingham Blades (7-5-1)

6: New Orleans Sea Dragons (6-4-3)

7: Philadelphia Phantoms (7-6-1)

8: Utah Falcons (6-4-2)

9: Klamath Falls Wild Wings (6-4-2)

10: San Francisco Seals (6-4-2)

11: Moose Jaw Oilers (6-4-2)

12: Lake Superior Senators (6-5-2)

13: Columbia Knights (6-5-2)

14: Red Deer Rangers (6-5-2)

15: Memphis Rogues (6-5-2)

16: Anaheim Cougars (6-5-2)

17: Buffalo Bisons (6-5-1)

18: Naperville Nighthawks (6-6-1)

19: Cincinnati Cyclops (5-5-3)

20: Denver Trout (5-5-2)

21: Las Vegas Cowboys (5-6-1)

22: Greensboro Giants (5-8-0)

23: Rhode Island Villains (4-8-2)

24: Missouri Militia (4-9-2)

25: South Bend Blackhawks (4-8-1)

26: Stamford Tigers (4-8-1)

27: Minnesota Lakers (4-8-1)

28: Reno Riot (3-9-0)

The Reno Riot have signed Rich Klerim as their head coach. He will take up the position immediately.

The 2017 WCHL Expansion Draft rules have been determined.

Each team will be required to leave 3 forwards, 2 defensemen, and 1 goaltender or 6 skaters and 0 goaltenders unprotected for the Regina Raiders and Richmond Maple Leafs to select in the WCHL expansion draft. Atleast one of these unprotected players must be at least a 2 year veteran, and players with only 1 (or less) year of WCHL experience are exempt. 

The WCHL will add 2 new teams for the 2017-18 season, named the Syracuse Energy and the Richmond Maple Leafs. The Energy will be affiliated with the New York Rangers, and the Maple Leafs will affiliate with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Buffalo Bisons (formerly Sabercats) have announced a name change. Chairman John Faire will host the formal announcement at the Bulls' next game.

The Reno Riot (0-7-0) have fired head coach Ray Adams. A replacement will be announced shortly.

The WCHL will add a team in Richmond, Virginia and either St. Albert, Alberta or Regina, Saskatchewan for the beginning for the 2017-18 season.

The Richmond team will be affiliated with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Regina/St. Albert team will be affiliated with the New York Rangers or Calgary Flames. The team names will be announced shortly.

The Red Deer Rangers have signed Robert Gaudet to be their General Manager, after Don Hilsabeck resigned yesterday.

The Red Deer Rangers will be in the market for a new GM after Don Hilsabeck stepped down from his position. He accepted an offer from the Minnesota Lakers to replace William Reynolds as their manager.

NON-PLAYOFF TEAMS EDITION

Rhode Island Villains (22-50-8)

Additions: Jack Ferguson (3rd Line)

Allan Jackston (Top 6 D-man)

Subtractions: Nicholas Jackson (3rd Line)

The Villains have had a rocky past two seasons. They have added big, strong forward Jack Ferguson from Denver in free agency, as well as punishing D-man Allan Jackston. These additions, along with the consistent production of Dan Enberg, Trevor Dempsey, and Tommy Mudrock should improve this club greatly. However, I still foresee a year of pain ahead for Rhode Island.

Anaheim (25-48-7)

Additions: Breydan Morrisson (1st Line)

Rick Stevens (4th Line)

Subtractions: Darren Williamson (4th Line)

Keith Renelds (3rd Line)

Paul Boxer (4th Line)

The Cougars seem to have done whatever they can to improve the team. They have signed star forward Breydan Morrisson, the most highly coveted free agent this year, as well as bottom six forward Rick Stevens. With another year of development from Rafael Dennis, Henrik Forestarrt, Cory Cilier, Alexander Ramos, and Blake Fleming this team should make serious strides for improvement. Although their defense is still questionable, this team is likely a playoff team this year.

Minnesota Lakers (27-45-8)

Additions: George Harper (Top 4 D-man)

Subtractions: Eric Godard (Top 6 D-man)

Christian Hanson (Top 2 D-man)

The Lakers have had a major overhaul in the past 3 years. They have said goodbye to former stars Breydan Morrisson and Chris Conel, they have traded longtime goaltender Clarke Gilbert, and they have been a revolving door of players trying to salvage their careers. Last season was a tough year, with the team struggling to get a break. They had a hard time on both ends of the ice. However, with new addition George Harper as well as draftees David Cermak, Sebastien Kalle, and Valterri Luunina this team is in the market for improvement. They could still use some help on defense however. The Lakers will likely see great improvement, but they will have a tough time trying to make the playoffs.

Missouri Militia (30-43-7)

Additions: Kenny Ellis (4th Line)

Stephen Jones (3rd Line)

Sean Baird (4th Line)

Subtractions: Gary Hardfort (4th Line)

Gary Kerlane (4th Line)

Mark Edera (4th Line)

The Missouri Militia have been a very exciting team to watch for the past few years. They have had a very tough time keeping the puck out of their net though. Their offense should be one of the best in the league if they can find a good center to play with Alexander Sallam, Michael Donnagen, Kristopher Hays, and Ben Beaman. Their only quality center is Frederick Briggs before it drops off to Scott Kanak, who belongs on the 4th line. Their defense has a lot of potential, but one more top line D-man could help, along with the departure of Jared Satrun. This team has these glaring issues, but once they fill these holes they will likely be contenders. For now I foresee them near the bottom of the league once again.

Las Vegas Cowboys (29-42-10)

Additions: None

Subtractions: None

The Cowboys have changed absolutely nothing this offseason. However, they are still likely to perform better this year, considering the development of their young talent. Rookie Michael Christofferson is likely to make his highly anticipated debut this season, along with Nick Newman. Ryan Terry, Lance Luna, and Shawn Danes all have one more season under their belts. With Dan Snyder on the roster for a full season, they could be a bubble team this year. However, they also have potential to be a bottom feeder for another season. 

Memphis Rogues (31-38-11)

Additions: None

Subtractions: Erik Christensen (3rd Line) 

The Rogues finally look like things are going their way. After two seasons of agony, they finally have potential in every area of their roster. After a series of savvy trades last season, they have acquired Ryan Thompson, Rick Murphy, and Brad Stout on defense. This should be the core of their defense for the foreseeable future, along with Derek Carlson and Johnnie Thompson. On offense, they have obviously built their core around Bert Franklin. They have dynamic winger Wesley Aguilar, as well as Matt Coos, Sean Donham, Luke Gonzales, and Fredrik Kalstad-Memuikler as a supporting cast. This team has real potential to do damage this year, and I wouldn't be suprised if they made a run into the playoffs.

South Bend Blackhawks (34-39-7)

Additions: Derek Sampson (Top 6)

Nikita Itlad (Top 6)

Subtractions: Ryan Russel (Top 6)

Phil Bilchagen (Top 6)

Marty Bilschen (Top 6)

Evan Brophey (2nd Line)

Steven Goertzen (2nd Line)

Dwight Helminen (2nd Line)

The Blackhawks have made some very questionable decisions. With a week left until the beginning of the season, they still have only 5 defensemen out of the required 6. Their offense looks quite bleak, having lost the majority of their core forwards in free agency. The Blackhawks have yet to make up for this loss, despite having some potential in their offense. Although this team may end up trending upwards with this roster due to players like Joona Korhonen, Austin Riley, Cody Higgins, and Johan Holmberg, they will likely be one of the bottom 3 or 4 teams this season. 

Birmingham Blades (36-34-10)

Additions: Will Carlson (Top 6)

Subtractions: Warren Drellam (Top 6)

William Hartfore (Top 6)

Kenny Ellis (4th Line)

The Blades have recovered very nicely from their dismal performance in 2014-15. Despite losing more than they have gained this off-season, the Blades' young guns will likely improve their performance enough to bring this team along the last leg of the journey for the playoffs. Players like Yury Greleshov, Brett Dumoile, Jean-Marque Alevieau, Alexander Hernandez, and Michael Slacheck with another year of development could make this team dangerous. 

Reno Riot (37-34-9)

Additions: Warren Drellam (Top 6)

Timothy Carr (Top 6)

Erik Ersberg (Backup Goalie)

Subtractions: Nathaniel Klein (Top 6)

Darren Haydar (Top 6)

Richie Reegan (3rd Line)

John Uwe (Backup Goalie)

The Reno Riot have taken an unorthodox approach to team management. After falling from grace in 2011, the team missed the playoffs for 3 years straight after making a suprise run in 2014. They ended up scratching and clawing their way to the finals, before being put away by Buffalo. Then they lost in the 2nd round of the playoffs the next year. Last season was quite dissapointing, the team didn't seem to play with the required effort expected from their coach, Ray Adams. The last half of the year was spent with Reno making drastic changes to their lineup, benching players questionably and calling up rookies. Despite a surge from Rookie Joost Johansson, the team missed the playoffs. This year the team seems to have a lot of holes in their roster as well. Their defense looks quite slow and immobile, and too reliant on physicality. As for their offense, their core players just aren't up to snuff. They have decent depth, but there are no true scoring threats. This team will have a tough time finding an identity this year as they climb for the playoffs, likely ending as a bubble team. 

Lake Superior Senators (37-32-11)

Additions: Niklas Jerrants (Top 4)

Tyler Longshore (4th Line)

Nathaniel Klein (Top 6)

Subtractions: George Harper (Top 4)

Keven Hayward (3rd Line)

Dane Byers (Top 6)

The Senators have had an up and down history, and this year seems promising. Their defense has improved, with first line D-men Nick McJunier and Jake Rety, as well as Niklas Jerrants, Ryan O'Miley, and the highly drafted Gerard Garza. With Garza's development all but inevitable, this team looks to make drastic improvements from last season. Their offense is still dangerous and fast, leaving Lake Superior looking like a bubble playoff team this season. 

Cincinnati Cyclops (37-31-12)

Additions: Barry Berrs (2nd Line)

Subtractions: Eddie Drew (4th Line)

Tyson Kundell (3rd Line)

AJ Kenneth (Top 4)

The Cyclops had an up and down season last year. They looked to be in a playoff spot up until the last month of the season, when they collapsed and fell short. The Cyclops lost defenseman AJ Kenneth in the off-season, and will likely rely even more on top line D-man Zach Huitikipeir. However big, physical power forward Barry Berrs will be a nice addition from free agency. With the arrivals of rookies Aleksandr Barolov, Frans Oscarsson, and Henrik Klemsa, the Cyclops will have a nice offense. However, their defense remains their main weakness.

Columbia Knights (40-30-10)

Additions: None

Subtractions: Allan Jackston (Top 6)

The Knights finished a mere 1 point outside of the playoffs. With a roster full of inexperienced, younger players the Knights had expected much less. However, having gained nobody this off-season, the team is likely in for regression. Their play last year was deemed unsustainable by most, and relied too heavily upon the teams stars, Neal Hollister and Mel Domm. This year Columbia might see a lot of time stuck in their defensive zone, and they will likely finish near the bottom.

Never again shall the Minnesota Lions be called the Lions. They have changed their franchise's name to the Minnesota Lakers. 

The Klamath Falls Wild Wings were awarded the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup championship following a 5-3 victory against the Hamilton Canadians in Game 7 of the Finals.

"I could not be happier", Andrej Larsson, the captain of the Wild Wings, said of his team.

The Rhode Island Villains have named Carl Jones as their general manager. He previous worked for the New Orleans Sea Dragons/Toronto Tepees from 2009 until 2013. 

They have also named Ryan Hardburg as their head coach.

The Rhode Island Villains have grown tired of continuous dismal seasons, and have dismissed General Manager Eddie Franst in hopes that this will help. They have also fired head coach Stefen Sarzuy and both will be replaced. A replacement has not been named yet.

The Phantoms have clinched a spot in the playoffs with their 4-1 victory over the Villains

Denver beat Memphis 3-2 and clinched the last Western Division spot, leaving Cincinnati out for the first time since 2013 and second time since 2011.

The Redding Royals have clinched the Western Division title. 

The Moose Jaw Oilers have clinched a spot with their 4-2 win over the Villains.

The Buffalo Sabercats could lose every game they have remaining, and they would still win their division. 

The Stamford Tigers will be returning to the playoffs for the second time in the last 3 years, along with Hamilton who is rebounding from a disappointing 2014-15 season. 

With Cincinnati's 3-1 loss to Columbia, the Klamath Falls Wild Wings have clinched a playoff spot for the 3rd consecutive season. 

The San Francisco Seals will also clinch due to Cincinnati's loss, returning them to the post-season after two disappointing seasons.

The Naperville Nighthawks have clinched a spot with their 4-3 win over Anaheim.

The New Orleans Sea Dragons have clinched a spot in the playoffs with their 3-2 overtime win against Utah.

The Puget Sound Snappers have clinched a spot in the playoffs with their 3-1 win over Rhode Island. 

The Utah Falcons have clinched a spot in the playoffs with their 2-3 loss against the Sea Dragons in overtime. 

The Red Deer Rangers have clinched a spot in the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup playoffs with a 6-3 win against Anaheim.

With their 6-5 win over Memphis, the Lexington Thunder have assured themselves a playoff spot.

The Redding Royals have clinched a spot in the playoffs with their 7-0 victory over Las Vegas.

The Buffalo Sabercats have become the first team to clinch a spot in the post-season this year with Columbia's 6-2 loss. 

Team East beat Team West 9-8 in a cracking, exciting game. The West was winning 8-4 at one point during the second period.

The All-Star MVP was Nick Carlson (Defenseman, Birmingham Blades) with 3 goals and 1 assist. Carlson also recorded the winning goal.

The East and The West tied 5-5 in the skills competition. 

The 2016 WCHL All-Star Game between Team East and Team West will be held on Sunday, 2/14/16.

The WCHL Offseason has begun. The Entry Draft and Expansion Draft will be held on Saturday, June 20th, and Free Agency will begin on July 1st. The Re-Sign stage will be from June 23rd-30th. 

The Redding Royals beat the Philadelphia Phantoms 4-2 in Game 7 of the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup Finals, winning the cup 4-3. The game winning goal was scored by Dale Heimer, in the 2nd period. 

The Redding Royals beat the Reno Riot 6-4 in Game 7 to advance to the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup Finals against Philadelphia. It starts on May 26.

The Philadelphia Phantoms beat the Naperville Nighthawks in 7 games. Game 7 was a 6-4 win for Philadelphia. The Phantoms will play either Reno or Redding in the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup Finals.

Minnesota Lions General Manager Oisin MacAteer resigned from his post. He will be replaced with William Reynolds. Reynolds is bringing his assistant Ralph Cogline.

The Buffalo Sabercats lost to Philadelphia 4-3. The Phantoms will play the Naperville Nighthawks, who beat New Orleans 4-2. Redding will play Reno. Redding swept the Oilers and Reno beat Puget Sound in 7 games, including a 3-2 overtime victory in Game 7. 

The Buffalo Sabercats were eliminated by the Philadelphia Phantoms in 7 games. 

DON HILSABECK - Puget Sound, Moose Jaw

GRAEME EDMUND - Puget Sound, Redding

GRAEME EDMUND - Buffalo, Naperville

DON HILSABECK - Buffalo, New Orleans

First Round Results: Western Division

PUGET 4-1 DENVER

REDDING 4-3 CINCINNATI

MOOSE JAW 4-3 KLAMATH 

RENO 4-2 RED DEER

The 2nd Round will have Puget Sound against Reno and Redding playing Moose Jaw.

First Round Results: Eastern Division

BUFFALO 4-1 LEXINGTON

NEW ORLEANS 4-2 LAKE SUPERIOR

GREENSBORO 3-4 PHILADELPHIA

NAPERVILLE 4-2 COLUMBIA

The 2nd Round will include Buffalo against Philadelphia and New Orleans against Naperville.

WESTERN DIVISION

1st ROUND:

GRAEME EDMUND - Puget Sound, Redding, Klamath Falls, Reno

DON HILSABECK - Puget Sound, Redding, Klamath Falls, Red Deer

2nd ROUND:

GRAEME EDMUND - Puget Sound, Redding

DON HILSABECK - Puget Sound, Redding

3rd ROUND:

GRAEME EDMUND - Redding

DON HILSABECK - Puget Sound

EASTERN DIVISION

1st ROUND:

GRAEME EDMUND - Buffalo, New Orleans, Greensboro, Naperville

DON HILSABECK - Buffalo, New Orleans, Greensboro, Columbia

2nd ROUND:

GRAEME EDMUND - Buffalo, Greensboro

DON HILSABECK - Buffalo, New Orleans

3rd ROUND:

GRAEME EDMUND - Buffalo

DON HILSABECK - Buffalo

BILL EDMUND MEMORIAL CUP FINALS

GRAEME EDMUND - Buffalo

DON HILSABECK - Buffalo

The WCHL 2014/15 Bill Edmund Memorial Cup Playoffs begin today. 

The WCHL 2014/15 Regular Season has concluded, and the playoff matches determined.

In the Western Division, the Puget Sound Snappers (49-22-8) will play the Denver Trout (39-30-11). The 2nd seeded Redding Royals (45-29-6) will play the Cincinnati Cyclops (40-30-10). The Moose Jaw Oilers, who surged to the 3rd spot in the division (43-29-8) will play the Klamath Falls Wild Wings, who slumped in their last 15 games and fell to 6th. They were (40-30-10). The Reno Riot (41-29-10) will play the Red Deer Rangers who were (40-29-11). The Rangers fell off considerably for the last part of the season, which is why they finished 5th. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Division, the competition was a lot weaker. Buffalo, who easily cruised to the 1st place in the league (50-23-7) will play Lexington, who finished (38-32-10). New Orleans (45-25-10) surged to 2nd place ahead of the drooping Greensboro Giants will play the Lake Superior Senators (39-32-9). The Senators had a hard time coming up with wins in the latter part of the year, and so finished 8th surprisingly. Many pegged them as a lock for 3rd place. The Greensboro Giants couldn't keep up with the surging Sea Dragons and so finished 3rd with a (43-28-9) record. They will play the surprising Philadelphia Phantoms (39-32-9). Despite a drastic start to the year, including an 11-19-2 stretch, the Phantoms ended up playing near perfect hockey in the final 25 games and made the playoffs as the 7th seed. Naperville (41-30-9) will play the Columbia Knights. Columbia, instead of finishing 8th or 7th like most expected, played well above what most thought their ability and finished (39-31-10).

The South Bend Blackhawks (16-38-9) have fired GM Drew Rielly after a 4-3 loss to Hamilton on February 20th. He will be replaced by a tandem of Michael Zenek and Ralph Donaldson on interim basis. 

The 2015 All-Star game (sponsored by Greer) is scheduled to begin Friday at 2:30pm. The skills competition will be Thursday at 2:15pm. The arena will be that of the San Francisco Seals (28-26-7) who have 63 points and a -2 goal differential. 

The WCHL plans to expand to 30 teams during the Summer of 2015 or 2016. More news on this later. The cities in question are Richmond, Virginia and Omaha, Nebraska. 

The Las Vegas Cowboys, who are currently 7-21-4 have fired GM Terry Bellford. They have replaced him with interim Viktor Jali. 

Rangers GM Don Hilsabeck hired Dave Lomperg as assistant coach. Lomperg went 1-5-0 with Minnesota before being fired. 

The Stamford Tigers have fired GM Gary Neer. He will be replaced with Bill Furrish. 

The offensively challenged Birmingham Blades have claimed Geoff Viola from the waivers. Viola had an off year last season sporting 5 goals and 4 assists, while being -19, however he has scored 21 goals before. If he bounces back, he could be a helpful asset to the Blades, who are 3-17-2. 

Today we'll be reviewing some of the streakier teams in the WCHL and which way each team is trending.

TRENDING UPWARD

Minnesota Lions (4-6-0)

The Lions are 3-1-0 under new Head Coach and General Manager Oisin MacAteer. Their offense has improved a lot since Dave Lomperg was fired. They were 1-5-0 under Lomperg. Brendan Morrison leads the Lions with 3 goals and 2 assists in 10 games. That might not seem like much, but he only had 1 goal and 1 assist under Lomperg. Rookie Jim Hanes has impressed the Lions greatly on the WCHL stage.

Philadelphia Phantoms (5-5-2)

The Phantoms had some struggles early on, but seem to be picking up the pace now. They have reached .500 for the first time this year and they beat Reno 10-0 on Friday in a huge blowout. Evander Luis recorded the second shutout in his career and the first since a 7-0 victory in Naperville in 2011/12. The Phantoms' offense has become very good with Danny Heary and Alex Buckingham coming into form, not to mention the developing youngster Jakob Marackson. 

TRENDING DOWNWARD

San Francisco Seals (8-6-0)

San Francisco was 8-3-0 to start the year and looked very good, but are on 3 game skid and are not showing any signs of improvement. They lost 4-3 to Klamath Falls, 3-1 to Rhode Island and 3-1 to Utah. Their goaltending is slowly regressing and Derek Dubline cannot be expected to continue his current standard of play.

Missouri Jr. Blues (7-10-1)

The Blues are on a 5 game losing streak. They have 5 goals in those 5 games. They also have 22 goals against in those same games. First year players Frederick Briggs and Ben Beaman have been the Blues' best players but they are inexperienced and need more time before they can be counted on. Samson DeJourd, the Blues' goalie, has played very well but the defense in Missouri is so bad that he cannot keep up pace. DeJourd is facing too many shots every night. 

Michael Leview was hired in the off season to be the San Francisco Seals general manager and so far he has done well to get the Seals off to a good start. San Fran. disappointed fans last year with a mediocre year. So far, the Seals are 7-3-0 this year. Their defense has been great. 

The Minnesota Lions have hired Oisin MacAteer as their new General Manager. 

The Minnesota Lions, after a 1-5-0 start, have fired their head coach Dave Lomperg. Lomperg's team has played poorly offensively, having only scored 8 goals in their 6 games. They've played poorly defensively as well. They have a 2.88 GAA and a .907 save percentage. Their leading scorer is Jeff Hunt, who has 0 goals and 3 assists in 5 games. Josh Hennessy has 1 goal and 1 assist in 6 games, and is also -11. Among the options for new coach are Nick Spren, Matt Iverson, Casey Craitegne, or Oisin MacAteer. If MacAteer gets hired, he would become the first Irish general manager in WCHL history. 

Today we will review teams who have improved from last season.

1. Greensboro

The Greensboro Giants were the last team in the Eastern Division last season. They were 13-36-7 last season. Their offense was very bad and their defense was mediocre. This year, their 19th overall pick in 2011, Frans Forberg, has had 11 goals and 2 assists. He has played very well for them, and is an early pick for the Rookie OTY trophy. The Giants are 5-1-1 so far. 

2. Missouri

The Blues may be bound for another non playoff year, but they have certainly improved. They are 4-5-1, which is below 500, and will probably miss the playoffs if they continue on this pace once the standings even out more, and every team gets an equal amount of games played, but last year they had a bad offense and a horrid defense. This year, 2nd overall pick Frederick Briggs (in 2014) has had 6 goals and 4 assists. The Blues most likely got the best player available last draft, even though Bob Suttons was drafted before him.

3. San Francisco

Last year the Seals surprised everybody last year by being average and missing the playoffs. However, this year they're making up for it. Even though most picked the Seals to regress, because of a downgraded roster, they seem to be improving. Nicolas Ortiz, who was drafted 16th overall last year seems to be somewhat of a bust, but Franklin Gunhamer, an Austrian who had a breakout year last year seems to be building off that breakout year. The Seals are 6-2-0.

The season began on Saturday, and we're three days in. There have been many surprises already. Today, we'll be reviewing three of them.

1. Buffalo's losses.

The Buffalo Sabercats are 0-2-0 in their first two games and have only 2 goals for, and 7 against. The main cause would have to be lack of offense. They lost to Naperville 3-1 on Saturday, and then they lost to Lexington on Sunday, 4-1. Tyler Carter, Linus McEnnis, and Danny Gore need to step up and produce like they usually do.

2. Thomas Caldwell

In the Red Deer Rangers' first game, a 4-1 win against Las Vegas, Thomas Caldwell had a hat trick. This was very unexpected, especially with players like Richard Stusnik, Carey Ryder, and Michael Kenneth. 

3. Rookie Madness

No team has currently played more than 3 games. Grady Hampton, his brother Henry, Frederick Briggs, Rafael Dennis, Ramon Andrews, Ken Scherazi, and more have had their first WCHL goal. 

The WCHL Season opener is tomorrow. It will be between the Buffalo Sabercats and Naperville Nighthawks, at 1:00pm Pacific. 

FORWARD

J. Arniel - R. Clemmenson - A. Gagnon

B. Bitz - N. Ortiz - D. McFanne

A. Kanak - L. Jason - F. Gunhamer

O. McKost - G. Hendera - S. Harper

The top 6 forwards in San Francisco are either good or average. However, the bottom falls out on the third and forth lines. Franklin Gunhamer, a danish Right Wing, cannot be expected to continue his greatness from last season. The Seals have horrid depth. However, Nicolas Ortiz may be the franchise player of the future. 

DEFENSE

C. Kalert - T. Reiger

K. Renelds - A. Forbert

T. Sims - O. Revanet

I have never seen so many nobodies and so few "good" players on one defensive core. The Seals will have a bad time keeping the pucks out of their net with that defense. Kalert is the best player, but even he would be a mediocre second liner. He is not first line material. 

GOALIE

D. Dubline

E. Smith

T. Trentson

Ah yes, the silver lining of this team. Dubline will no doubt start, after having a journeyman career of mixtures of starting and backing up. Evander Smith has always been an average starter, so he should be a good backup. Trentson may end up as a bench warmer. 

FORWARDS

B. Bell - V. Frese - A. Aliu

S. McAlroy - T. Krittem - D. Vasquez

J. Gustafsson - B. Johnson - D. Heimer

W. Franlits - C. Gabrini - R. Shaw

The forwards in Redding are, as usual, headed by Vladimir Frese. They made some additions, in Bell, Aliu, and rookies Vasquez, Shaw, Gustafsson, and Gabrini. They overall got younger, less physical, and more talented. Watch out for the Royals this season.

DEFENSE

R. Smith - R. Edlime

T. Rudolph - S. Olson

E. Redstiff - R. Andrews

The defense in Redding is strictly defensive. Three players in the D-core had plus minus ratings higher than +20, and none of them had more than 7 goals. They are not very offensive, but they're all shut down defenders.

GOALIES

S. Carlosmov

B. Francis

M. Floyd

The goalies this season are headed by third year player, Simeon Carlosmov. He is a russian goalie, and is very good at his position. Brian Francis returns from Buffalo as a backup. Moses Floyd was drafted last year and may or may not see much playing time. 

PROJECTED FINISH

4th-1st in the Western Division. 

FORWARDS

Z. Hamill - S. Heshka - B. Morrison

C. Hanson - B. Bochenski - E. Godard

J. Hennessy - B. Welch - Q. Limart

D. Frost - J. Hunt - R. Goodman

Loosing Richard Stusnik was a big blow to the head of the Minnesota Lions, but they've made up for it in depth. Welch and Goodman are their weakest players, but Welch is a growing rookie and Goodman is a forth liner, and he plays physically. Now Breydan Morrison takes over the face of the franchise role. However, the Lions seem to be in decline since losing Vincent Vica in 2011, Richard Stusnik in 2014, and Chris Conel in 2013. Those three players, along with Morrison, where the core of this team. 

DEFENSE

D. Haydar - J. Hendry

B. Quinn - W. Stone

D. Ericson - A. Kernewe

The defense in Minnesota is just above average. Hendry and Haydar are experienced veterans with NHL experience. Stone and Quinn are good offensively, and Ericson and Kernewe can hold the fort defensively. 

GOALIES

C. Gilbert

N. Wetburg

S. Tomson

The Lions goalies are all about average. Tomson is a sophomore player and is only going to improve. Gilbert is an average starter, and Wetburg is an average backup. 

PROJECTED FINISH

5th-1st in the Western Division. 

FORWARDS

M. Kenneth – J. Lindgrin – T. Caldwell

D. Homena – R. Stusnik – T. Furrey

T. Karlyle – D. Williamson – J. Lopez

I. Anderson – C. Ryder – H. Larlyme

The Red Deer forward group is not bad. The first line could be a little stronger offensively, but Stusnik will likely spend time on the first line. Ryder on the forth line could be a bit of a problem, but if Williamson doesn't impress, they should switch. They have good depth too. The fourth line isn't much worse than the first.

DEFENSE

G. Roberts – R. Phillips

V. Adkins – K. Jafan

A. Sims – D. Merts

The defense in Red Deer is pretty good. Phillips and Roberts are great for the first line, Adkins, who will be a rookie and is just looking to develop, will be good on the second line. Sims and Merts on the third line wouldn't be bad. They are sturdy players, and should make the third line a good one.

GOALIES

Mike Feman

Tom Tyke  

Feman is a great goalie. Not a star, but he's great. He played very well for Greensboro the last few years until he was traded to Red Deer for last season. There's not much competition for the starting spot because Tyke is pretty unproven.

PROJECTED FINISH

5th-3rd in the Western Division, to make the playoffs.

FORWARDS

V. Vica - T. Cartledge - F. Washington

E. Levy - M. Pyorala - L. Reddox

K. Morris - B. Mason - R. Gross

R. Dowe - E. Rochall - M. Retcher

The Puget Sound forward group could be the most improved in the league. That first line is amazing, and the second line isn't much worse. Ryan Gross, Tucker Cartledge, and Francis Washington are all rookies who will be very good in a few seasons. Cartledge and Washington are good now! 

DEFENSE

W. Hulta - E. Artyukhin

R. Litchford - E. Skozteva

S. Robaide - T. Wik

The defense in Puget Sound is average. It could get a lot better, but it could get a lot worse. Hulta might not be ready for the top spot yet, but if he falters there's no doubt Artyukhin will make it. Robaide and Wik played together in Minnesota 4 seasons ago and have good chemistry. 

GOALIE

J. Footer

S. Plackett

Footer was traded from Birmingham to Puget Sound in 2012 to be the starting goalie for the 2012/13 season and up. So far he's done a fine job and is only getting better. Plackett has been trying to crack the roster since 2011 and this will be his chance.

PROJECTED FINISH

6th-2nd in the Western Division, to make the playoffs. 

FORWARDS

N. Bergfors - A. Giroux - G. Kaberle

O. Sketchrykov - A. Thurresson - N. Grebe

A. Lowe - J. Hartnell - B. Trotter

L. Fitzpatrick - A. Nacker - J. Morgan

The offensive depth in Moose Jaw is pretty good. Kaberle is developing into a super star. They added plenty of offense to the picture during the off season. Giroux, Bergfors, Thurresson, and Trotter are just some of them. Sketchrykov should provide nice scoring on the second line. However, when Lowe, Hartnell, and Sketchrykov develope further, they'll need to trade away some of the older players to make room for the younger players.

DEFENSE

S. Asdoark - R. Stoa

T. Sloan - E. Sims

D. Trent - B. Nabouchslee

The defense in Moose Jaw is below average. They have Defenseman of the Year winning Sergei Asdoark, yes, but who else? Sims provides offense, but the Oilers already have plenty of that. Stoa and Sloan are also offensive players. Trent and Asdoark are the best defensive players, and that's not very much. Asdaork may be a star, but he needs more support if this team wants to have a stable defense.

GOALIE

E. Frazier

T. Perkeky

K. Hayteas

The goaltending is not in a good situation in Moose Jaw. Perkeky cannot play without great defense and lets in bad goals. Frazier will be a rookie, but the hopes for him are high. Hayteas has tried and failed to make the team several times with Buffalo in the past, but that was when they had Jallie. It might be an interesting year in net for Moose Jaw.

PROJECTED FINISH

11th-8th in the Western Division, bubble team.

FORWARD

R. Earl - T. Truton - D. Hale

R. Terry - M. Ferrinda - V. Kyrchekov

S. Drayson - E. Rusnokslov - J. Tundra

J. Lopez - C. Ferguson - L. Smith

The Las Vegas forwards are exceptional. They will be a powerhouse in a few years. They have great third and fourth lines.

DEFENSE

K. Scherazi - F. Nacker

L. Luna - W. DeTeyrier

R. Leesh - A. Reynolds

The defensive core in Las Vegas is young. Scherazi and Luna will be rookies this year. Nacker is a entering his third season. Leesh is the most experienced. This defense should be a little shaky to start off the year.

GOALIE

T. McHellens

D. Ellis

L. Daphez

The goaltending should be getting stronger. McHellens keeps getting better every season, Ellis is a good backup, and Daphez is a below average backup. Daphez could use some time to get better before he gets much playing time.

PROJECTED FINISH

9th-7th in the Western Division, bubble team.

FORWARDS

L. Farull - B. Geoffrion - E. Thalder

C. Durno - F. Phillips - C. Fairchild

J. Maston - M. Fridders - J. Megans

R. Reegan - T. Larkolts - Z. Fedarion

The Riot forward group has become much better since they last played, losing in the finals to Buffalo. Their third line could be some other team's first line. They are extremely deep. Rookies Johnathan Rodriquez and Shane Richards might get some on and off playing time. 

DEFENSE

G. Jackson - D. Hallard

T. Warford - S. Distolaines

M. Warrens - R. Wilts

The Reno D is one of the most defensive D's in the league. Nobody in this defense had any more than 12 goals last season, and Wilts had none. However, nobody in this defensive core except Jackson had a minus plus minus last season. Jackson was -3. 

GOALIES

T. Saine

J. Uwe

The Reno goalies are strong. Saine is a good goalie, and Uwe is a good backup. Saine is clutch and can be great in the playoffs. He is very acrobatic. Uwe is slower and bigger, but he can hold his own.

PROJECTED FINISH

4th-1st in the Western Division, to make the playoffs. 



FORWARDS

C. Reders – A. Larsson – C. Jackson

K. Brown – O. Tollefsen – K. Logg

K. Magnaro – M. Daschese – M. Rosenarvey

W. Carlson – Z. Kelly – M. Gorkke

The Wild Wings still have a weak first line. It is more like a second line. However, Daschese and Rosenarvey should be able to grow into that position. Tollefsen was signed in the off season. He might split time on the first line with Larsson. 

DEFENSE

D. Parker – M. Fortunus

J. Wagner – D. Frenderms

Z. Gunnerson – P. McKostren

The bottom 2 pair of defenders has an offensive D and a defensive D. The middle pair does too, as well as the top pair. Wagner is still getting better, but Frenderms should help with his progress. Gunnerson may take over Wagner sometime during the season. 

GOALIES

M. Richards

R. Rjeckty

Last year the goaltending was weak in the season, but good in the playoffs. The Wild Wings are going to need better goaltending this year. Rjeckty, a rookie, may take over the starting spot from Richards who started last year. Richards had a 3.03 GAA last season. 

PROJECTED FINISH

10th-8th in the Western Division, bubble team.

FORWARDS

G. Killian – D. Enberg – C. Elkins

T. Frischmon – G. Martenson – T. Mudrock

N. Jackson – A. Ferg – S. Halmerson

P. Heaters – J. Stelar – R. McKlenn

This team has one of the best offenses in the league. Elkins has played in the NHL before. Mudrock will be a stud before long. Frischmon has played in the NHL as well. The fourth line has grit and toughness, which is needed in a fourth line. Martenson, however, is not a great second line center. 

DEFENSE

J. Demartillo – J. Ramirez

S. Sims – T. Carr

D. Medina – J. Demers

This defense is about average. Demartillo and Ramirez, both with hispanic descent, played well together on the first line before. Sims and Carr are both weak defensively, but good offensively. Medina is looking to get better, and will be a rookie this year.

GOALIE

M. Karlsson

S. Calif

E. Ersberg

Karlsson had a dynamic rookie season, and Calif hasn't played since playing in Memphis during his rookie season in 2012/13, winning the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup. Calif might be shaky, so Ersberg was signed to give insurance.

PROJECTED FINISH

5th-2nd in the Eastern Division, to make the playoffs.

FORWARD

A. Picard – M. Grandeskontov – M. Bliznak

M. Naberson – M. Saquenn – S. Green

T. Kundells – E. Gurten – R. Dreans

A. Tyson – R. Statler – H. Olofsson

The Cyclops forwards are average. Tyson is not living up to expectations, but Saquenn, Grandeskontov, and Naberson are going to be very good in a few seasons. Bliznak has played in the NHL before. 

DEFENSE

Z. Huitikipier – A. Lugrensson

M. Vradensson – E. Drew

H. Smith – D. Davis

Huitikipier is the star defenseman that got the Cyclops out of the draft this year, but he makes up for it in playing ability.  Lugrensson is a rookie this year, and it'll be interesting to see how he does. Vradensson is also a rookie, but he doesn't have as big a potential as Lugrensson. Drew, Smith, and Davis are dead weight.

GOALIES

J. Mason

D. Pamaire

Mason is a good iron man goalie. He played every game all game for the Cyclops last year. He is the MVP for the Cyclops. He really carries them. Pamaire is really just relief, but he might not get much playing time. 

FORWARDS

T. Kapnet – S. Elliotte – A. Flere

T. Terelainen – W. Staley – D. Neilson

G. Darslienoffer – C. McAttney – N. Spazner

F. Klein – K. Hayward – D. Kelim

The Senators' forwards are a little mixed up. The third line is very talented, with Darslienoffer and McAttney doing the scoring, and Spazner the hitting, but the second line is going to be very talented in a few seasons. Terelainen and Staley are both young and somewhat new. Elliotte won the Greer Rookie of the Year award last year, and it will be interesting to see how he does. Flere was aquired from Buffalo, and should boost the offense. 

DEFENSE

N. McJunier – J. Rety

R. O'Miley – M. Davis

T. Samgan – T. van Kelton

The defense in Lake Superior is questionable. It is young, talented, but inexperienced. It should be scary in a few seasons. Rety, McJunier, and O'Miley are only going up, Samgan is past his prime, and van Kelton is very unproven.

GOALIES

M. Ferguson

P. De Poeres

Ferguson and De Poeres are very even. They should split time somewhat evenly. However, De Poeres is small and therefore has to be fast, something he is not too great at. Ferguson was a free agent for a year before he ever got signed. He might be out of shape. It will be good to see how it plays out.

PROJECTED FINISH

10th-7th in the Eastern Division, and a bubble team.

FORWARDS

D. Heary – A. Buckingham – G. Frantori

J. Stalberg – J. Maracksson – E. Turner

D. Ebbesson – S. Jones – H. McKasterly

W. Sauge – D. Walker – A. Greats

The Phantoms top 9 looks great. Ebbesson is a talented rookie, Jones is a good two way guy, McKasterly is not good on defense, but he is great offensively. Turner is inconsistent, but is still improving. Maracksson was hindered with injuries last year and should be able to return to form this year. Stalberg and Maracksson have great chemistry. Heary had a break out year last season with a whopping 59 points. 

DEFENSE

C. Wellgood – R. Hunder

A. Jamoszek – A. Wardey

J. Mitch – S. Mason

Wellgood and Hunder are both award winning, proven star defensemen. Hunder is good at scoring, while Wellgood can hold the fort behind him. Jamoszek is a Czech rookie, and we'll see how he works out. Wardey, Mitch, and Mason are all unimportant, and they are undoubtedly Philadelphia's weak spot. 

GOALIE

J. Peters

J. Witberg  

The goaltending in Philly is weak. Peters was drafted this year, but has been wowing the management in the development camp. Witberg was a good back-up last year, and might compete with Peters for the starting reigns this season.

PROJECTED FINISH

8th-5th in the Eastern Division, to make the playoffs.

FORWARDS
W. Aguilar – B. Franklin – M. Cos

R. Jones – I. Coert – S. Donham

F. Kalstad-Memuikler – L. Gonzales – T. Micholes

F. Stevens – G. Harper – J. Thompson

The Rogues are a mess. Two seasons ago they were a power house. Now this. Cos and Aguilar are third liners, but because they are young the Memphis management is hoping with the first line ice time, and playing with star Bert Franklin, they will improve into stars. Improving into stars is what most players on this time seem to be doing. Harper is a second liner, and will probably fit onto the second line once the young guns improve into their spots. Donham, Jones, Gonzales, Coert, and Kalstad-Memuikler are just some of the other younger players.

DEFENSE

D. Carlson – N. Jerrants

A. Kenneth – V. MacDanes

H. Kosem – J. MacKinnis

The Memphis Rogues defense is not going to improve as much as the offense without some changes. Carlson is the only player who is getting better. Jerrants is a top 4 D-man at best, Kenneth, MacDanes, MacKinnis, and Kosem are all top 6 guys. 

GOALIE

R. Wagmore

E. Harper  

Wagmore and Harper are about even, but given Wagmore's experience he should be the starter. However, because of the even skill level, it's likely that Wagmore will play about 30 games and Harper about 26, because of how even they are. They should split time.

PROJECTED FINISH

The Rogues are a mess and will be scary in a few seasons, but now they just aren't there. They are projected to finish 15th-13th in the Eastern Division, to miss the playoffs.

FORWARDS

J. Nevandysk – J. Gibson – M. Tuber

M. Muster – M. York – M. St Hatters

R. Hayward – J. Harte – T. Miller

A. Kelter – P. Saunders – A. Wardey

The Thunder have a good, young forward group. York, Gibson, St Hatters. and Saunders are all up and coming players. Tuber is a quick, skill player. Nevandysk is a good play maker. Every line they have fits together.

DEFENSE

S. MacKenzie – S. Stevens

D. Hedmund – M. Burle

R. Vlanteele – D. Williamson

The defensive core in Lexington is good. Stevens and MacKenzie are arguable the best defensive pair in the league. They have marvelous chemistry. Burle is a rookie, and questions surround him, but Hedmund should be a good mentor. You know you're good when you have Vlanteele, a Defenseman of the Year nominee, on your third line.

GOALIE

J. Jallie

S. Roginard

Jallie is the best goalie in the league. No questions about it. He was aquired in Free Agency after leaving the Buffalo Sabercats. Roginard is an unproved rookie, who just got over from Sweden. It should be an interesting year in net for the Thunder.

FORWARDS

F. Foret – J. Deitra – F. Ricton

V. Marrilose – K. Flenn – R. Jovas

F. Guilltheir – N. Nasha – B. Henson

A. Feman – M. Danis – J. Weber

The Canadians have good depth up the middle. Deitra is a good first liner, and Flenn, Nasha, and Danis are even. Danis is a good physical, fast, and fit player. He will fit on the first line with Weber, who is an enforcer, and Feman, who is a skill player. Nasha is a playmaker, and will likely help Guilltheir who is entering his sophomore season improve. Henson was signed in Free Agency, to help bolster the offence.

DEFENSE

D. Sampson – F. Mochal

M. Shandez – E. Stalvuk

J. Dagam – S. Baird

The defensive core for Hamilton is mediocre. Samspon and Mochal belong in a top 4 pair, or a top 6 pair but not top 2. Stalvuk is an average top 4 man, or a good top 6 man. Shandez is about the same skill level as Sampson. Dagam is big and fast, and can drive to the net, but he is mediocre on defense. Baird is bad on offense and average on D. 

GOALIE

J. Craig

J. McDackleson

John Craig is a good starter for the regular season, and McDackleson is an average starter. McDackleson is a good starter for the playoffs, because Craig usually melts down during the playoffs. 

PROJECTED FINISH

6th-3rd in the Eastern Division to make the playoffs.

FORWARDS

O. Mankanez – A. Garret – F. Forberg

H. Mogane – J. Howard – M. Fertime

R. O'Neal – P. Desjardins – A. Reynolds

M. Stone – K. Levy – H. Ritkent

The forward group for the Giants is relatively weak. Forberg, Mankanez, Howard, Fertime, Desjardins, O'Neal, and Stone have their primes ahead of them, and are still improving. Garret is the best player, who they have to build around. They should be very dangerous in two or three years.

DEFENSE

R. Billard – D. Milsen

A. Larson – B. Garrelt

P. Hyuziok – E. Dawens

This defensive group is weak, and does not have the same amount of prospects as the forwards have. Hyuziok has the most potential. The defense shouldn't improve as much as the forwards will without trades or signings.

GOALIE

V. Porlov

T. Keller

B. Quatts

The goalies in Greensboro look strong. Porlov is a capable starter. Quatts has proven himself an okay back-up, but he is not very skilled. Keller is a rookie, but he might take the back-up reigns from Quatts.

PROJECTED FINISH

15th-12th in the Eastern Division to miss the playoffs

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FORWARDS

B. Beaman – M. Donnagen – F. Briggs

G. Kerlane – M. Leegan – G. Hardfort

M. Reynolds – D. Garret – S. Kanak

L. Turner – K. Edera – R. Spazner

Missouri has a great group of two way forwards. Leegan, Kerlane, Hardfort, Reynolds, Kanak, Turner, and Spazner are all great offensively and defensively. They have rookies in Beaman and Briggs, who are looking to impress bigtime and become stars.

DEFENSE

C. Kerner – B. Stutter

C. McKellard – B. Ladden

E. Allen – D. Amaral

The first defensive pair, and Ladden are all good defensively. McKellard is more of a forward, and then Allen and Amaral are both not really good. They have a big shortage of defensemen in their prospect pool.

GOALIE

S. DeJourd

L. Karlsson

DeJourd is a star goalie. He can handle massive amounts of shots and still play quite well. Karlsson is an unproven rookie, signed this year. This means DeJourd will play most of the games, if not all. This will tire DeJourd, and his play might get worse as the season gets going.

PROJECTED FINISH

12th-9th in the Eastern Division, to miss the playoffs.

FORWARDS

C. Kleisler – D. Ramier – S. Jackston

G. Levy – O. Peterson – H. Michele

E. Harsson – R. Andrews – J. Ferguson

T. Felpert – L. Parker – K. Gordans

The first line is very offensive. Ramier, Jackston, and Kleisler are all 35 point scorers. Peterson is also a first line forward, but he is stuck on the second line between Michele, and Levy. Andrews is a promising rookie that could develope into a great player, so the Trout have very good depth in the middle.

DEFENSE

E. Shaltz – R. Skerlem

M. Skerra – S. Edmonds

M. Yostik – V. Baldwin

The Trout's defensive core is good. Shaltz and Skerlem are both shut down stalwarts. Edmonds and Skerra are a little on the weak side, but they are still okay. Yostik is sturdy, but Baldwin is a question mark.

GOALIE

K. Collins

T. Kane

The goaltending is great for the Denver Trout. They should split time equally. Kane is a great back-up and a good starter, and Collins is an ok starter and good back-up. Collins is more experienced so he'd probably start.

PROJECTED FINISH

7th-10th in the Western Division, and a bubble team.

FORWARD

S. Hundroschk – R. Matthews – M. Horgem

P. Hermes – S. Dametten – U. Garson

D. Ossen – K. Warrens – G. Hampton

R. Bourke – K. Gordons – R. Danson

The Nighthawks have one of the deepest teams in the league. They basicallu have four 2nd lines, no first, third, or fourth. They have some young players, like Garson, Dametten, and Hampton. They will be studs in the future. 

DEFENSE

P. Dastremov – M. Green

C. Towner – R. Franson

D. Beruge – K. Bratt

The Nighthawks defense is great. They are one of the few teams that have 6 defensemen, each one is perfect for his position. Dastremov and Green are both experienced first line defensemen, Towner and Franson are both good offensive D that fit on the second line. Beruge and Bratt are both rookies, but the bottom pair fits them.

GOALIE

P. Sykotachev

F. Davis  

Here is the weakness. Sykotachev was a rookie back-up last year and is inexperienced in the art of being a starting goalie. Davis is not ready for this league, but was signed as a back-up. 

PROJECTED FINISH

8th-10th in the Eastern Division, as a bubble team. 

FORWARD

W. Kelly – M. Peterson – M. Montain

D. Jones – D. Tyson – W. Hartfore

M. Denelds – K. Ellis – T. Sims

D. Beaumonte – T. Morris – W. Donalds

The Birmingham forwards are average. Nothing too good, nothing too bad. Marcus Peterson is their best player, but still, they aren't too strong in the offensive category. They are also dry in the prospect category. They need to get younger.

DEFENSE

R. Lopez – N. Carlson

S. Johnson – P. Smith

J. O'Brian – R. Garters

The Birmingham defense is pretty good. Carlson and Lopez can hold their own. However, the rest pretty much drops off. There is nothing good after that.

GOALIES

H. Lundberg

Milton Robinson

The goalies in Birmingham are weak. Lundberg is a bad starter, and an average back-up. Also note that last year was his rookie season. Robinson is going into his rookie season.

PROJECTED FINISH

12th-10th in the Eastern Division to miss the playoffs.

FORWARDS

McEnnis – T. Carter – D. Gore

D. Stamford – A. Hartnell – G. Hillsacluff

M. Burgess – H. Ferrinda – A. Griffith

H. Goozner – G. Schwartz – C. Fistern

Buffalo's forwards aren't as good as they were last season, but they are still very sturdy in the offense department. Their first line is amazing, and their second line is good as well. They have many up and coming players too, like Griffith, Burgess, Fistern, Schwartz, and Hillsacluff.

DEFENSE

C. Jurroson – A. Asure

R. Gardener – D. Dustin

S. Dervelteski – J. Meehan

Buffalo's defense is both young and good. They have strong hitters, such as Dustin, Gardener, and Meehan, and offensive defensemen, like Asure, Jurroson, and Dervelteski. The Sabercats' young defensemen (Meehan, Dervelteski) are going to make this defense unbeatable in a few seasons.

GOALIE

J. McDanes 

M. Austem

The Buffalo Sabercats' goaltending is by far the weakest link in their system. McDanes is barely a suitable starting goalie, and Austem is incosistant and small. There will be controversy on who gets the starting position.

PROJECTED FINISH

The Buffalo Sabercats are projected to finish 5th-2nd in the Eastern Division to make the playoffs, and they will likely go far in the playoffs.

FORWARDS

O. Paul – B. Davis – V. Skortstantov

A. Derblit – C. Cilier - Z. Kane

D. Paie – H. Forestarrt – R. Bladstik

A. Ramos – R. Dennis – B. Fleming

Not incuding Bobby Davis, the Anaheim Cougars' forward mix is pretty weak. They have good prospects though. Dennis, Fleming, & Ramos are all drafted last year. Kane and Forestarrt are also still getting better, and Cilier is entering his sophomore year. This team will be scary in about four seasons. 

DEFENSE

J. Fergundro – J. McKinney

M. McShoeren – D. Grent

J. Clermane – C. Vordine

The defensive core for Anaheim is great, and that is a rare thing in this league. They have two top 2 guys, two top 4, and two top 6. However, they need to start drafting defensemen if they want to keep this core for long. Grent is getting old.

GOALIE

J. Mornez

J. Hallum

The goalies look better than last year. Mornez is an average starter and Hallum is also an average starter, but Hallum will likely be a backup. All in all, the goaltending is average.

PROJECTED FINISH

10th-11th in the Eastern Division, to miss the playoffs for the 2nd season in a row.

FORWARDS

D. Felpert – N. Hollister – D. Gardener

A. Klorgen – C. Morgensen – F. Gore

B. Modez – T. McCarter – W. Kelly

A. Johnston – K. Jackston – B. Darston

David Felpert, a grinder, is questionable on the first line, however he and Gardener have chemistry that the Knights should be reluctant to break apart. Neal Hollister had a promising rookie season and is looking to improve with a bunch of ice time on the first line. Andrew Klorgen is possible to replace Felpert on the first line, but it's possible that he will stay where he is because a new arrival to the team. Modez had a shortened rookie season due to injury, and he will be looking to be less injury prone and overall get better.

DEFENSE

M. Domm – S. Warrens

M. Schultz – J. Biycuk

N. McGee – B. Michaels

Other than Mel Domm, who is one of the top D-men in the league (and also happens to be entering his sophomore year) the Knight's defense is weak. Michaels is not ready for this league yet, and Warrens is more of a top 6 defenseman. Unless Columbia works on getting more skilled defensemen they will likely struggle to succeed.

GOALIE

Ron Freeman

B. Shimmards

The goaltending, like the defensemen, looks weaker than last season. Jonas Bernlund signed with Utah and Adam Renelds was traded. Ron Freeman is a rookie who was drafted by Reno. Brian Shimmards has a history of inconsistantness, and played for the Memphis Rogues last season. He is not a very goalie and is not really supposed to play in this league.

PROJECTED FINISH

8th-11th in the Eastern Division, to either squeak into the playoffs or miss them. They have gotten worse since last season. 

FORWARD

B. Dewe – D. Dewe – A. Frutt

M. Devinson – M. Montain – J. Lovegood

J. McDonald – K. Provost – F. DeKlein

D. Bruth – F. Pollock – M. Davis

The Stamford Tigers have one of the best forward groups in the WCHL. Bobby Dewe, and his father, Donnald, have great chemistry together and Alexander Frutt has great speed and his shot is exceptional. Johan Lovegood is a physical prescence that the Tigers need, and Mike Montain is a great playmaker to feed the puck to sniper Matt Devinson. Overall, each line the Tigers have works out perfectly and each player fits on each line. DeKlein, if he plays on the 3rd line, will be one of the best 3rd liners in the league.

DEFENSE

T. Cornman – K. Goode

D. Thompson – M. Smith

A. Westly – R. Gerald

The Tigers defense is not very strong. Cornman and Goode are not used to be having a top 2 role, and it might place pressure upon them. The Tigers really need a top 2 or even top 4 defenseman to play with Goode, in order to be a true contender.

GOALIE

J. Bell

D. Vega

M. Stanton

Josh Bell, the current starting goalie has shown signs of brilliance but is also quite inconsistant. He has the size to play, but his reflexes aren't really very good. Back-up Dominic Vega was drafted in the first round a few months ago, and may or may not end up playing. The goaltending is a problem for the Tigers right now because they have an inconsistant slow starter and an unproven rookie back-up. Matthew Stanton has played 8 games in his short WCHL career, and has a 3.01 GAA. He also needs improvement. 

PROJECTED FINISH

5th-3rd in the Eastern Division, to make the playoffs for the second season in a row.

FORWARDS

Michael McEddgarts– Carl Weise – Shawn Shemp

Andrew Mullen – Justin Cornman – Earnest Williamson

Cam Wellson – Linus Pettersson – Al Kinnons

Ville Lagame – Michael Dawer – Rick Blockodd

Many of the forwards that play for the Sea Dragons currently were recent free agent signings. The Sea Dragons have done well this off season. McEddgarts, Weise, Blockodd, Dawer, & Lagame are just a few of the good aquisitions the Dragons have made. They have good, improving young players too, such as rookie Earnest Williamson (2014 Draft, 11th overall), rookie Carl Weise, and sophomore player Shawn Shemp (2013 Draft, 1st overall). Mullen and Cornman have a great chemistry together, and should not be on different lines. 

DEFENSE

Billy Grant – Dan Sims

Derik Mangeson – Gabriel Ferguson

Ryan Hoffley – John Gottman

The Dragons have a very solid top 4 defensive core. Billy Grant emerged in the playoffs last year with Klamath as a sturdy offensive defenseman. His former teammate, Dan Sims, was signed in free agency. 

GOALIES

Andrew Peters

Timmo Virkonainen

Andrew Peters is a great goalie, and can perform well no matter how well his defense plays. That shouldn't be a problem for New Orleans this season, but it's nice to know you can trust your goalie. Questions surround rookie back-up from Finland, Timmo Virkonainen.

PROJECTED FINISH

The New Orleans Sea Dragons are predicted to finish 7th-8th in the Eastern Division and make the playoffs for the first time. 

For the first time ever, the WCHL is doing a 28 in 28. We will review all 28 teams in all 28 days from August 3rd to August 30th. Here is our schedule.

AUG 3: NEW ORLEANS

AUG 4: STAMFORD

AUG 5: COLUMBIA

AUG 6: ANAHEIM

AUG 7: BUFFALO

AUG 8: BIRMINGHAM

AUG 9: NAPERVILLE

AUG 10: DENVER

AUG 11: MISSOURI

AUG 12: GREENSBORO

AUG 13: HAMILTON

AUG 14: LEXINGTON

AUG 15: MEMPHIS

AUG 16: LAKE SUPERIOR

AUG 17: PHILADELPHIA

AUG 18: CINCINNATI

AUG 19: RHODE ISLAND

AUG 20: KLAMATH FALLS

AUG 21: RENO

AUG 22: LAS VEGAS

AUG 23: MOOSE JAW

AUG 24: PUGET SOUND

AUG 25: RED DEER

AUG 26: MINNESOTA

AUG 27: REDDING

AUG 28: SAN FRANCISCO

AUG 29: UTAH

AUG 30: SOUTH BEND

We hope you will enjoy!

The Falcons have placed offers in many places, including Jallie but it fell through. They drafted well, and are making it clear they want to be in the playoffs and contending soon. 

The Hamilton Canadians have been active on the trade block lately. So have the Buffalo Sabercats, and Lake Superior Senators. It's understandable for Buffalo. They have just won the Bill Edmund Memorial Cup and have recieved the least amount of cap space. They're likely going to loose Jacques Jallie. The Canadians have lost defenseman Stefan Robaide and defenseman Evander Kollson. They have recieved defenseman Erik Stalvuk and defenseman Jake Dagam. The Senators have recieved forward Al Flere from Buffalo and forward Clarke McAttney. They lost Adam Kelter to Lexington for McAttney, and a 1st and 2nd round draft pick from next year for Flere. 

Any players with contracts not signed this offseason will be added as soon as the resigning stage ends, on August 21st. Free agents will be signable all through November 31st.

The Puget Sound Snappers made it to the playoffs for the first time ever last year, before barely missing out the year before. They lost 3 games to 4, to the runner-up Reno Riot. However, the Snappers can go nowhere but up. Last year's first round pick, Tucker Cartledge, and this year's first rounder, Francis Washington, are budding stars. Both should finally make the team this year, and play alongside star Vincent Vica, signed last summer. 

Bill Edmund Memorial Cup Finals - Game 5

Buffalo 5:4 Reno - OT

(Buffalo wins 4-1)

PENDING FREE-AGENT SIGNINGS

UTAH: Bob Sutton, Defense

MISSOURI (GREENSBORO): Frederick Briggs, Forward

BUFFALO (MOOSE JAW): Antonio Griffith, Forward

DENVER: Ramon Andrews, Forward

MISSOURI: Henry Hampton, Defense

MEMPHIS: Wesley Aguilar, Defense

NAPERVILLE: Grady Hampton, Forward

LAS VEGAS: Lance Luna, Defense

ANAHEIM: Rafael Dennis, Forward

LAKE SUPERIOR: Gerard Garza, Forward

NEW ORLEANS: Earnest Williamson, Forward

SAN FRANCISCO: Nicolas Ortiz, Forward

RED DEER: Van Adkins, Defense

COLUMBIA: Willie Kelly, Forward

UTAH (BIRMINGHAM): Tom Hughes, Defense

LEXINGTON: Patrick Saunders, Forward

PUGET SOUND: Francis Washington, Forward

MINNESOTA: Merle Yates, Goalie 

RHODE ISLAND: Rickey Davis, Forward

SOUTH BEND: Austin Riley, Forward

REDDING: Moses Floyd, Goalie

BUFFALO (HAMILTON): Michael Burgess, Forward

The WCHL Resigning stage has begun. Any player who will become a Free-Agent this year can be resigned by another team.

For the first time in franchise history, the Red Deer Rangers will be in the Edmund Cup Playoffs. 

"It's a great feeling, but the Royals are tough." Says Bud Henson, Red Deer forward. Red Deer will face the Redding Royals. 

"If we can get by [Simeon Carlosmov] then I think we're set." says Tyson Karlyle, the Rangers' leading scorer.