Welcome to Part 2 of our reader mailbag. If you missed it, you can check out Part 1 here.
I took a bit more time to answer a reader’s inquiry regarding memories of Johnny Gaudreau, so I intend to address some topics I haven’t covered in my upcoming Friday notebooks during the NHL preseason. As always, I value your engagement. These questions provide me with essential insights, giving me a clearer understanding of what is truly on the minds of readers.
Let’s dive into a few more questions now.
Note: Submitted questions may be edited for clarity and style.
I am writing from Europe, where some national championships commenced last week, with others set to start in the next 24 hours. Many people in the U.S. propose reforming the playing season to run from mid-September to the end of May. What is your perspective on this, and what could be the potential benefits or drawbacks of changing the calendar? — Andrea D.
This has been a longstanding frustration for me because I began covering the NHL in the 1980-81 season, which culminated with the New York Islanders defeating the Minnesota North Stars in the Stanley Cup Final. That year, the last playoff game took place on May 21, with the regular season consisting of 80 games and a best-of-five format for the first round, which typically wrapped up within a week. Playoffs didn’t extend into June until 1992, and since then, the season has only lengthened. It’s frankly absurd that a winter sport often concludes its season just as summer officially begins.
The ideal resolution would involve shortening training camps, commencing the regular season on October 1, playing a 76-game schedule, and ensuring that NHL playoffs finish by May 31. While it’s not perfect, it’s preferable to the current arrangement. Unfortunately, most U.S.-based teams prefer to start the season even later due to conflicts with baseball playoffs and peak NFL season. Consequently, there appears to be little inclination among NHL executives to revise the schedule. However, if they conducted focus groups in Canada, Europe, and northern U.S. states, I believe the vast majority of fans — the paying customers — would agree that the season is simply too lengthy.
The solution is straightforward. The challenge lies in the willingness to implement it.
With rumors circulating about some veteran players in Calgary feeling uneasy about being part of a rebuild, what steps would a player like Jonathan Huberdeau need to take to regain sufficient value for a team to consider trading for him? Additionally, do players like Blake Coleman, Mikael Backlund, Nazem Kadri, and Mackenzie Weegar have any market given their cap hits and remaining contract terms? — Ryan H.
<pEvery year, I compile a mental list of contracts that seem untradeable, yet time and again, I find that some do get traded. For instance, this summer featured two noteworthy swaps: Pierre-Luc Dubois moved to Washington from L.A. without salary retention by the Kings, and Patrik Laine was dealt to Montreal from Columbus, also without retained salary. In both cases, the teams shed overpriced assets and had to offer incentives to finalize the trades. The Kings took on Darcy Kuemper’s contract, a deal Washington wanted to unload. Meanwhile, Columbus received young defenseman Jordan Harris but had to part with a second-round pick.
So, I’ve learned to never say never. However, in Huberdeau’s situation, unless Calgary retains a minimum of 30 percent of his contract, I cannot envision a trade materializing soon. Huberdeau commands an impressive $10.5 million annually, with seven years left on the contract. To spark any interest, he must re-establish himself as, at the very least, a point-per-game NHL player.
When the Flames signed Huberdeau to that contract, he had just come off an outstanding season, racking up 115 points and ranking second in the league. Unfortunately, we haven’t witnessed similar production or influence during his first two years with the Flames. Perhaps if Laine doesn’t find a place in Montreal and becomes available post-expiration of his contract, there may be interest in him. Nevertheless, moving Huberdeau’s contract remains a formidable challenge today.
At this stage in Calgary’s rebuilding process, they are likely comfortable carrying Huberdeau’s cap hit in the short term since they’re near the salary cap floor anyway.
GO DEEPER
‘Just pump the brakes a little bit’: Flames veterans wrestle with team’s rebuilding reality
The players you’ve mentioned all possess some level of value.
Coleman, at 32 years old with three years remaining at a $4.9 million cap hit, brings a championship pedigree and is coming off his best season thus far, making him likely the most valuable among them. I can definitely see a contender inquiring about him at the trade deadline.
Backlund, aged 35, took a pay reduction to remain in Calgary and serve as the team’s captain. He would have trade value if he desired to pursue a championship elsewhere — I believe Colorado showed interest at some point — but it seems that concluding his career where he began is a priority for Backlund. Hence, I doubt he will be moved.
Weegar has seven years left on his contract at $6.25 million and had an impressive performance last season. He represents a crucial element both on the ice and in the locker room during the Flames’ transition. For the Flames to part with him, a remarkable offer would need to be presented. I thought Ottawa could be a suitable destination for Weegar since he can effectively play both defense positions, but the Flames would likely have requested Shane Pinto, which would not have been acceptable.
Kadri, now 33, is under contract for five more years at $7 million, a reasonable figure for his current contributions, but one that might not age well. If a team believed it had a three-year window to vie for the Stanley Cup, he would be a valuable asset. On camp’s opening day, he urged reporters to “pump the brakes” on trade rumors, indicating that he and his teammates prefer to focus solely on hockey at the start of the new season. This is understandable. Let’s observe how the season progresses.
Looking at Calgary, the two players most likely to be moved, assuming they have solid seasons, are Andrei Kuzmenko (with one year remaining at $5.5 million) and Anthony Mantha (signed for one year at $3.5 million). They’ll have the opportunity in Calgary to play significant minutes and enhance their trade value as the deadline approaches.
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Would Seth Jones be a fit for Edmonton? (Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
Should Edmonton contact Chicago to propose a Darnell Nurse for Seth Jones swap? — Mike C.
This question requires some contemplation because initially, it does seem appealing and carries a certain symmetry. It appears Mike C. thinks a change of environment could be beneficial for both players, who currently aren’t performing to the standards expected of their salaries. Additionally, the individual who originally signed Jones to that contract in Chicago, Stan Bowman, is now the general manager for the Oilers. Let’s delve deeper into this.
Jones, at 29 years old, is a right-handed defenseman—which Edmonton needs—and has six years left on his contract with a $9.5 million AAV. On the other hand, Nurse is also 29 but is a left-shot defenseman, with a similar contract length of six years at a $9.25 million AAV. Both players were high draft picks, with Jones selected fourth overall in 2013 and Nurse taken seventh. Hence, there are many commonalities.
The most notable difference from last season is that Jones ranked fourth in the league for ice time (25:29), while Nurse was 56th (21:54). From the limited viewings I’ve had of both players, Jones has seemed like a stronger all-around defenseman. I can understand why Edmonton would quickly consider this trade; it would enhance their left-right defense pairing. However, I struggle to see why Chicago would agree unless Edmonton included a compelling incentive. Still, the idea remains intriguing—a different take on the Shea Weber for P.K. Subban scenario, but it could hold significant ramifications.
Which “old” Cup-winning team do you think stands the best chance of recapturing their past glory for one last Cup, allowing their veterans to retire on a high note? Consider teams like Washington, Pittsburgh, Tampa Bay, Los Angeles, etc. — Daniel W.
One response I came across suggested that none of these teams have a chance, and I largely concur with that sentiment. I don’t envision Washington, Pittsburgh, or Los Angeles making a successful comeback into the championship picture, even with several key members from their core retained. However, I’m not ready to discount Tampa Bay just yet. For instance, if Andrei Vasilevskiy can return to form after being healthy and rested, his performance could significantly exceed that of the past couple of seasons. Nikita Kucherov continues to be elite at just 31, and Brayden Point is 28, along with Jake Guentzel at 29. Victor Hedman showed no signs of decline last year either. That said, the current offensive structure feels a bit top-heavy for my taste, akin to Colorado’s setup. While I’m uncertain how long it might take for Conor Geekie to develop into a top-six forward in the NHL, it appears Tampa Bay still has a window to compete for the next two seasons. In contrast, it genuinely seems that the opportunity has closed for the other three teams mentioned.
When the league eventually expands, do you believe there’s a cap on the number of teams allowed? Personally, I think a limit of 40 teams would be appropriate. In that case, should there be a relegation system so that the lowest-performing team has an incentive to avoid tanking? — John F.
The notion of relegation to a lower division has been raised periodically as a topic of debate; I even discussed a related question back in 2022. That year, the Montreal Canadiens finished last in the league, and a relegation system would have seen them drop to the AHL, replaced by the Chicago Wolves, the Calder Cup champions. Strangely, the prospect of relegation lost much of its appeal once it involved a franchise as iconic as the Canadiens. In short, I find it hard to envision a scenario in which such a system could be implemented—neither in the NHL nor in any major North American professional sports league.
But regarding how…
As the league continues to grow, if it stays exclusively a sport centered in North America, then it seems unlikely to ever exceed 40 teams, at least in this century.
I anticipate the league will reach 34 teams in the next 3-5 years, expand to 36 within a decade, and then pause for an extended period, similar to what occurred after the ambitious expansion in 2000. At that juncture, the leadership of the NHL following Gary Bettman’s departure can then decide when to pursue reaching 40 teams.
Let’s take a bold step and identify the next eight cities that could be on the expansion radar: Atlanta, Houston, Phoenix, Portland, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, and Omaha.
While I firmly believe Quebec City deserves to be at the forefront — as they could become what the Green Bay Packers are to the NFL — I’m convinced they will never see another team again.
For over 30 years, I’ve been advocating for a second team in Toronto. Keen readers might recall a column I wrote on that topic for The Hockey News many years ago. However, my hopes remain unfulfilled — despite the fact that the league is missing out on significant revenue by restricting the Greater Toronto Area to just one team. Historically, the NHL has shown little tolerance for leaving money unattended for extended periods. If the NHL ever does decide to establish another team in Canada, my best guess is that it will be in the Golden Horseshoe region. Still, under Bettman’s management, my optimism for that happening has dwindled significantly.
What’s the succession plan for Gary Bettman, and how soon will it be implemented? — Michael H.
Bettman isn’t sharing any details, but I suspect he’ll retire around 2027, followed by a search committee tasked with selecting his successor. It’s likely that Daly will be considered, but if the NHL aims for a fresh perspective, they’ll probably explore a wider pool of candidates before making a selection. I predict that the next NHL commissioner will be someone who isn’t currently on the radar.
Do you have any fond memories of Johnny Gaudreau in Calgary? — D.j. N.
Like many, I was left stunned by the news of Gaudreau’s passing and that of his brother Matthew on the Friday before Labor Day. I had the privilege of covering Gaudreau during the first seven years of his career in Calgary, where I found him to be both charming and disarming. He was like everyone’s beloved younger brother, exuding natural charisma that brightened the locker room daily. Some individuals possess that gift; they leave you feeling a bit happier after an encounter. In the realm of professional sports, which has increasingly become self-centered, he represented a delightful throwback to a previous era.
During the year Gaudreau briefly held out for a new contract in 2016, right after a successful World Cup of Hockey with Team North America, he signed just days before the season began. In the following interview, he expressed that he urged his agent to finalize the deal because he did not want to miss any games — he was eager to dive back into work. This drive encapsulated his approach to the game. Gaudreau was a hockey genius, a necessity for excelling at such a high level considering his stature.
Having written numerous articles about Gaudreau over the years, I revisited some on the day he passed away. One piece that particularly struck me dated back to January 2019, during a season where he was considered for the NHL MVP award, just before he left for the All-Star Game. We had a comprehensive conversation about his life at that time and his performance on the ice.
Towards the end of our dialogue, I inquired whether he ever contemplated what life after hockey would entail. Although he had majored in communications at Boston College, he didn’t foresee a career in that field. In fact, he shared that he envisioned a different post-playing path — following in his father Guy’s footsteps as a gym teacher.
I remember commenting in print that if Gaudreau ever pursued that dream, he might become the highest-paid physical education teacher in U.S. history. However, that was merely a hypothetical…
Gaudreau also envisioned himself in a gym, working with young individuals to help them become better athletes. Below is that narrative, which also recounts his past fascination with purple Gatorade.
GO DEEPER
Magician on the ice, disaster in the kitchen: Inside the world of Johnny Gaudreau
This also aligns with an idea I attempted to bring to fruition — to arrange a meeting between Johnny Hockey and Johnny Manziel (also known as Johnny Football), who was then playing in the CFL. Unfortunately, logistics hindered the execution. However, it would have been exciting, and Gaudreau appeared receptive to the concept.
Another significant point from that story is an insight shared by former Flames teammate Joe Colborne, who assisted on Gaudreau’s inaugural NHL goal and shared living quarters with him during his rookie season in Calgary.
“The thing about Johnny is that he lacks any pretentiousness,” Colborne remarked. “As a rookie, he was an excellent teammate. I recall Burkie (former GM Brian Burke) telling him something typical for Burkie: ‘I don’t want to hear your voice until Christmas,’ or something along those lines. He advised him, ‘Your role is to smile, listen to your captain, and be attentive to your veterans.’ Within just two weeks, Johnny became the guy the veterans were joking with, having a great time in his company. He has this infectious quality that draws people to him.”
I also recall a story that Kristen Anderson from the Calgary Sun, Jermaine Franklin from TSN, and I all reported simultaneously. We were at Winsport Arena just before the 2019 training camp during a captain’s skate when Flames TV released a wonderful video profile of Gaudreau. It was modeled after the MTV classic, Cribs, which showcased the homes of celebrities. Gaudreau provided a tour of the summer house he constructed on the Jersey shore. He had requested the architects to include an elevator to the second floor to accommodate his cousin, who uses a wheelchair, allowing her greater mobility. I found that to be an incredibly thoughtful gesture, something both Kristen and I commented to Gaudreau. It wasn’t framed as a direct question but merely an observation. Gaudreau appeared slightly surprised by the compliment. Yet, it perfectly illustrated what many who have been reflecting on him recently have reiterated — that family was paramount in his life. Numerous individuals may claim that, but Gaudreau truly embodied it. If you’d like to revisit that story, it can be found below.
GO DEEPER
Johnny Gaudreau feels at home in Calgary and winning may be the Flames’ best hope of keeping it that way
Without a doubt, Gaudreau’s passing will overshadow the entire 2024-25 NHL season. It was both senseless and unnecessary — an event that cannot be easily processed in a day, a week, or even a month.
(Top photo of Johnny Gaudreau in front of Flames fans in 2023: Leah Henn
el / Getty Images)
Reader Mailbag Part II: NHL Season Scheduling, Player Trades, and Memories of Johnny Gaudreau
NHL Season Scheduling Insights
The NHL season scheduling often raises questions and discussions among fans and analysts alike. Understanding how the NHL organizes its schedule can enhance the viewing experience and keep fans engaged throughout the season.
Key Factors in NHL Scheduling
- Team Travel Logistics: The NHL considers travel distances, especially for teams that travel cross-country. This ensures that teams can play back-to-back games without excessive fatigue.
- Rivalry Matches: The NHL schedules rivalry games, such as the Battle of Alberta, to ensure they occur frequently, enhancing fan engagement.
- Television Broadcasts: National broadcasters play a significant role in determining game times, ensuring maximum viewership.
- Player Rest Days: The league aims to provide adequate rest for players, particularly during back-to-back games.
Unique Aspects of the NHL Schedule
The NHL regular season typically runs from October to April, consisting of 82 games for each team. The league also incorporates a balanced schedule, where teams play both conference and non-conference opponents. Here are some statistics regarding game distribution:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Games per Team | 82 |
| Regular Season Duration | October to April |
| Games against Division Rivals | 4-5 per season |
| Games against Non-Division Teams | 2-3 per season |
Player Trades: Impact on Team Dynamics
Player trades are a hot topic during the NHL season, particularly during the trade deadline, which usually falls in late February. Fans often wonder how trades affect team dynamics and player performance.
Factors Influencing Player Trades
- Team Needs: Teams may trade players to fill specific gaps, such as adding a scoring winger or bolstering defensive lines.
- Salary Cap Management: The NHL’s salary cap often influences trades, as teams must navigate financial constraints.
- Performance Trends: A player’s performance can dictate their trade value and desirability among teams.
Benefits of Strategic Trades
Strategic player trades can lead to a variety of benefits:
- Enhanced Team Performance: Acquiring a star player can significantly boost a team’s chances of playoff success.
- Fresh Perspectives: New players bring different playing styles and experiences, which can invigorate a team’s strategy.
- Fan Engagement: High-profile trades often generate buzz and excitement among fans, increasing attendance and viewership.
Memories of Johnny Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau, a fan favorite during his time with the Calgary Flames, has left an indelible mark on NHL history. His exceptional skill and playmaking abilities garnered admiration from fans and players alike.
Highlight Moments in Johnny Gaudreau’s Career
- 2014-2015 Rookie Season: Gaudreau burst onto the scene, earning the NHL Rookie of the Year award.
- 2019 NHL All-Star Game: His performance in the All-Star Game showcased his elite skills on a national stage.
- Memorable Game-Winning Goals: Gaudreau has scored numerous clutch goals, including playoff overtime winners.
Fan Reactions and Legacy
Gaudreau’s departure from Calgary to the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022 left many fans reflecting on his contributions:
- Skill and Creativity: Fans often reminisce about his unique playing style, combining agility and speed.
- Community Engagement: Gaudreau was known for his involvement in charitable events, enhancing his legacy off the ice.
- Memorable Quotes: His quotes about teamwork and passion for the game still resonate with fans.
Case Studies of Successful Trades and Their Impact
To understand the ripple effect of player trades, let’s look at a few case studies:
Case Study 1: The Wayne Gretzky Trade
Perhaps the most famous trade in NHL history, Wayne Gretzky’s move from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 redefined player trades:
- Impact: Sparked an increase in NHL popularity in Southern California.
- Influence: Established a precedent for star player trades.
Case Study 2: The Trade of Phil Kessel
Phil Kessel’s trade from the Boston Bruins to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2009 had significant implications:
- Toronto’s Rebuild: Kessel became a cornerstone for the team’s rebuilding phase.
- Performance Metrics: Kessel consistently led the team in scoring, showing the impact of a well-timed trade.
Practical Tips for Fans on Trade Season
As the trade deadline approaches, fans can enhance their viewing experience by keeping the following tips in mind:
- Stay Informed: Follow reputable sports news sources for updates on potential trades.
- Engage on Social Media: Join discussions on platforms like Twitter and Reddit to share insights and opinions.
- Participate in Fantasy Leagues: Consider how trades may affect player values in fantasy hockey leagues.
First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Perspective
As a lifelong hockey fan, witnessing the emotional rollercoaster of player trades is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. The uncertainty of whether a favorite player will be traded creates a unique bond between fans and players. I remember the day Johnny Gaudreau was drafted; his quick ascent to stardom felt like a dream come true. However, when he signed with Columbus, it felt like a chapter had closed, leaving memories of his breathtaking goals and assists forever etched in my mind.
Hockey, like life, is about change and growth. Embracing these transitions, whether through scheduling or trades, keeps the excitement alive and encourages us to cherish the moments that make the NHL great.
