November 27, 2022

Behind The Mask

With Kelly Hrudey

Sunday, November 27, 2022:		vs

As mentioned above, the 'Hawks have come out flying. Nico Sturm has 3 goals and 3 assists in his first 6 games while playing only third line minutes. Of course, the backbone of the team is goaltender Elvis Merzlikins. The flashy keeper has looked dominant thus far and his confidence has his teammates singing "that's all-right baby". The Penguins dynamic duo of Evgeny Malkin and Filip Forsberg may have other plans however. Forsberg is on fire with 5 goals in 5 games. Unfortunately, the rest of the forwards need to step up if there's to be any success this season. While defensively good, the Pens will need others to elevate their play.

Prediction
	vs
3		2

Actual (OT)
	vs
2		2

Wednesday, November 30, 2022:		vs

The Canucks who are still looking for a GM to fill the vacancy left by Leni Laconte, seem to be trying to find their identity. One player who knows what his role is though is none other than the great eight, Alex Ovechkin. Although he only has one goal so far, he does have seven assists. His line mates are enjoying the distraction he is on the ice. The Blues appear to be on the right path. Built solid and well managed, St.Louis look to make their move in the Norris Division. They're well balanced and coached and their only blemish so far came at the hands of Boston. I believe St.Louis will be the new sheriff in town when talking about this division.

Prediction
	vs
2		2

Actual
	vs
0		3

Saturday, December 3, 2022:		vs

Colorado suffered their first loss of the season against the above-mentioned St.Louis Blues 4 - 1. Despite the loss, the Avs have looked good overall. Alas as it seems to be a trend in the league this season, Colorado appears to want to rebuild their team from what I judged on their trade board. With the likes of Edmonton, Vancouver and San Jose to deal with in the Western Conference, I imagine GM Tsang feels he doesn't have enough to not just compete but to beat the big three. We'll see. Tampa on the other hand is also doing fine with only one loss at the moment. Goaltending and team defense is the way of the Lightning, and they will be a tough team to break down. Should they get more scoring watch out!!

Prediction
	vs
4		2

Actual (OT)
	vs
3		3

Saturday, December 3, 2022:		vs

In this matchup we see the two newest GM's go at it. The two are entering the season with different objectives as Buffalo look to make a splash now, while Columbus has a rebuild in mind. First off Buffalo. It looks like all the right moves are paying off for the Sabres as they sit atop the Orr Division. GM Savatti has built quite a roster and Buffalo will have to be reckoned with in the East. One note to the GM, be sure to dress 2 goalies when your team takes to the ice next time. There are some big names who are apparently being shopped by the RSHL's newest GM. Mr. Poulin it has been said, is a master rebuilder. While that remains to be seen, his lineup is still formidable. So, until the big name players are shipped out, the Bluejackets will still be difficult but with all the trade rumors, how stable will they be?

Prediction
	vs
4		1

Actual
	vs
5		2

Thursday, December 1, 2022:		vs

Take aside a 4-1 loss to the New York Islanders, Anaheim has been scoring goals aplenty. I was in attendance for their game against the Hartford Whalers and I must say it was a very entertaining game. I was really impressed with how they came back in the third period down a goal and shut down the defending champs. Anaheim would prevail 4-3 and would serve notice that they can't be taken lightly this season. Another team that will make some noise in the East will be the Detroit RedWings. Led by young star Dylan Larkin and the ageless goaltender Johnathan Quick. Cagey GM Martel will have to gauge how much net time he'll give his number one goalie especially with Alexandar Georgiev eager to make his presence felt. My guess it's Quick's crease to lose and given how insulated he is with a good defense in front of him, it would take quite the collapse for him to give way. Should be a great game.

Prediction
	vs
2		1

Actual (OT)
	vs
2		2

I hope you enjoy the read and the games. As always, your feedback is most welcome on the predictions or whatever else RSHL related. Stay safe and keep your eye on the puck. Until next week.... KH