Boston Bruins

NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Bruins, Canucks, Flames, Leafs

NHL Trade Talk Nov 20 Recap: Hyman injured, Podkolzin solid, Bruins in trouble, Miller on leave, Wolf solid in goal, Maple Leafs Knies injury

by
Old Prof
November 20, 2024

Welcome to another NHL Trade Talk Recap (Nov. 20). How injured is Edmonton Oilers’ forward Zach Hyman? What should have been a great night in his 600th NHL game turned South for Hyman and the Oilers. In other news from the Oilers, newcomer Vasily Podkolzin is rewarding the Oilers for their off-season gamble. How good can this youngster become? Is he a top-six asset?

When the Boston Bruins fired Jim Montgomery, he wasn’t the first award-winning coach to walk the proverbial NHL plank. Who else coached their team to great seasons but was recently let go? Speaking of the Bruins, with Montgomery’s firing, is the team ready to move some of its veteran players? If so, who? Something is wrong with the Vancouver Canucks JT Miller. The team hinted that it was something serious with their concerning announcement. How can Canucks fans support Miller and their team?

Finally, how good is Dustin Wolf as a goalie? He’s played two solid games in a row for the Calgary Flames. Can he make it three? And tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs, led by Joseph Woll in goal, shut out the high-flying Vegas Golden Knights. However, a second-period hit on Matthew Knies crossed the line. Or maybe not. Is NHL officiating problematic?

Injury Concerns for Zach Hyman After Milestone Game

Oilers forward Zach Hyman left the game against the Ottawa Senators during the second period after a collision with defenseman Nick Jensen. While the injury didn’t appear serious, Hyman did not return. That raises concerns for a team battling injuries. The incident came during Hyman’s 600th NHL game, marking a disappointing end to what should have been a celebratory milestone.

Will the Oilers maintain their momentum if Hyman joins their growing injury list?

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Vasily Podkolzin: The Oilers’ Underrated Top-Six Asset

In more Oilers’ news, Vasily Podkolzin is beginning to reward the Oilers for their offseason gamble. He put up two assists in a strong showing against the Ottawa Senators. Known for his forechecking, puck retrieval, and defensive reliability, Podkolzin has thrived in the top six, particularly alongside Connor McDavid. (Who wouldn’t, you might wonder.) While his goal-scoring touch is growing, his versatility and work ethic have made him indispensable in the team’s lineup.

Can Podkolzin jump to the next level and become a scoring threat for the Oilers this season?

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Fired After Success: The Tough Reality for NHL Head Coaches

Coaching in the NHL is a high-stakes game, as evidenced by the recent firings of 2023 Jack Adams finalists Jim Montgomery, Lindy Ruff, and Dave Hakstol—all within 18 months of being recognized as coaches of the year. Despite leading their teams to historic achievements, these coaches became casualties of unmet expectations. These challenges included injuries and underperformance.

What current head coach might be the next to face the heat in the cutthroat NHL?

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After firing head coach Montgomery, the Boston Bruins face tough questions about their future. If their struggles continue, the team might have no choice but to explore trading key players like Brad Marchand or Charlie Coyle. With limited tradeable assets and an interim head coach in Joe Sacco, the Bruins’ next moves could define their season. Will the Bruins embrace a rebuild, or can they salvage their playoff hopes with bold decisions?

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J.T. Miller’s Absence Highlights the Pressures NHL Players Face

J.T. Miller‘s unexpected absence from the Vancouver Canucks lineup has sparked speculation about its cause, ranging from injury to personal or mental health issues. The team’s statement of “full support” and request for privacy suggests a sensitive situation, urging fans to consider the intense pressures athletes face on and off the ice. How can Canucks’ fans best show their support for Miller during this uncertain time?

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Dustin Wolf Shines as Flames Edge Islanders in Thrilling Shootout

Dustin Wolf’s stellar goaltending propelled the Calgary Flames to a 2-1 shootout victory over the New York Islanders. With 28 saves in regulation and a critical performance in the shootout, Wolf solidified his role as a key player in the Flames’ lineup. As the team fights for consistency, could Wolf’s rise signal a turning point in their season?

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Controversial Whitecloud Hit on Knies Sparks Debate Over NHL Officiating

A high hit from Zach Whitecloud on Matthew Knies left Maple Leafs fans furious and reignited discussions about NHL officiating inconsistency. While some argue the hit was clean, others point to potential head contact and the league’s unclear standards on player safety. With Knies sidelined and no suspension issued, is the NHL doing enough to protect its players?

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