The Deuce

The Deuce
[ The Deuce ]

NHL Playoffs

Posted by bbonb <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bbonb' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on April 26, 2026, 13:38:06

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

I am annoyed with the Blackhawks

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 12:55:31, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Reward for 3 years of half-season tickets and thousands of dollars spent on a team that has had the 2nd worst record in the league all 3 years (in addition to the prices going up every year as expected)…

- No more annual member gift (was just something small like commemorative Chelios coasters from his jersey retirement year)

- No more end-of-year box with all the gate giveaways from the season, or $200 in concessions if not interested in that. Now will be given the opportunity to buy the giveaways.

- No more guaranteed access to buy half of playoff games with my seats. Now switched to a presale opportunity after full season members get to buy first, no guarantee I’d be able to buy my own seats or even get any seats in general

I guess this is the price you pay now that they are such a great team…

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

I went to a game in December. They have been all over me since trying yo get me..

Posted by Ron McDon <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=Ron+McDon' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 20, 2026, 11:23:51, in reply to "I am annoyed with the Blackhawks"

to buy a partial plan. I suppose the ass kicking the Penguins game them in that game is supposed to excite me?

Previous Message

huh - no blackhawks points? goddammit*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 13:52:53, in reply to "I am annoyed with the Blackhawks"

Previous Message

Rationale was that they aren’t being redeemed enough so they got rid of them.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 13:55:29, in reply to "huh - no blackhawks points? goddammit*"

I know that just like credit cards it’s technically a sunk cost that businesses like to avoid, but when it only lasts for 6 months it seems like it shouldn’t be much of a problem.

Wonder if they’re cutting costs/benefits to help fund the project around the stadium.

Previous Message

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

The infrastructure behind point systems are often pretty expensive

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 20, 2026, 11:15:06, in reply to "Rationale was that they aren’t being redeemed enough so they got rid of them."

And the people that most take advantage of them are already the big fans that didn’t need the incentive in the first place.

Previous Message

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

it's basically revenue they'd otherwise capture, at least for me. I'll spend $400 instead now..*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 20, 2026, 11:02:28, in reply to "Rationale was that they aren’t being redeemed enough so they got rid of them."

Previous Message

Wow that's pathetic penny pinching. Are you going to renew?*

Posted by gullit <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=gullit' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 13:12:16, in reply to "I am annoyed with the Blackhawks"

Previous Message

Already did, there was no official communication of the changes.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 13:36:44, in reply to "Wow that's pathetic penny pinching. Are you going to renew?* "

I just happened to go on the website and saw that the promo materials for new sign-ups had a bunch of things in the Half-Season column that were now different than when I signed up.

I would have still renewed anyway but I made sure to express my disappointment to my rep. Just shows zero loyalty to the people who kept that place reasonably full during these terrible years. The playoff part is what really pissed me off because that’s a key benefit of having season tickets in the first place, and even if I get tickets in the presale it almost certainly won’t be in the seats that I’ve chosen to sit in for a reason.

Previous Message

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

I'd hope that rep is hearing a lot of that. Effing small time behavior*

Posted by KingTalkyTiki <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=KingTalkyTiki' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 13:40:24, in reply to "Already did, there was no official communication of the changes."

Previous Message

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

I emailed mine upon hearing of this here. no reply*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 20, 2026, 11:03:21, in reply to "I'd hope that rep is hearing a lot of that. Effing small time behavior*"

Previous Message

Let me know what you hear back. Do you have half season?

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 20, 2026, 11:11:04, in reply to "I emailed mine upon hearing of this here. no reply*"

I also just looked at the chart again and realized that half season members aren’t even eligible to buy the giveaways, only full season. So my rep was wrong about that.

I don’t care much about that, but it just seems like an unnecessary thing to take away with how bad the team has been.

Previous Message

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

full. and I bitched about the 400 points disappearing. I always use all of them. I wasn't very nice*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 20, 2026, 11:18:45, in reply to "Let me know what you hear back. Do you have half season?"

Previous Message

Chicago Blackhawks: really good 20% of the time, absolute ass 80%.*

Posted by Warrin'_Illini $<iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=Warrin\'_Illini' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'>$ on May 19, 2026, 13:05:29, in reply to "I am annoyed with the Blackhawks"

Previous Message

You cannot lose games in the NFL and still win.

Somewhere the Old Man is smiling*

Posted by KingTalkyTiki <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=KingTalkyTiki' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 19, 2026, 13:03:12, in reply to "I am annoyed with the Blackhawks"

Previous Message

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

Sorry Buffalo and Sabres fans, you're a great fanbase that deserves success like this and more.

Posted by KingTalkyTiki <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=KingTalkyTiki' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 18, 2026, 21:52:54, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

That said, Tage Thompson, you can get fuuuuuuuuuucked, you MAGA POS.

Your tears are delish and bring me unbridled joy.

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

Free hockey!*

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 18, 2026, 21:36:10, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

Game 7 OT alert. *

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 18, 2026, 21:19:45, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Bonkers scoring tonight*

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 14, 2026, 18:36:49, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

Watching the Swedish TV feed. They provide their own Swedish advertisements along the boards

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 14, 2026, 18:41:48, in reply to "Bonkers scoring tonight*"

And they never go to commercial during breaks so you’re watching it non-stop

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

Nice job by TNT to totally mute the Buffalo crowd noise on this broadcast.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 14, 2026, 18:27:11, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

I’ll never understand the decisions that are made so often by the people responsible for the audio mixing on sports broadcasts.

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

this Montreal crowd is fuckin fired up*

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 12, 2026, 18:09:33, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Corey Pronman from The Athletic joins the list of those mocking Stenberg at #4*

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 11, 2026, 13:23:41, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

They probably get neither, but I think I’ve been gaslit into preferring Malhotra over Stenberg

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 12, 2026, 22:25:05, in reply to "Corey Pronman from The Athletic joins the list of those mocking Stenberg at #4*"

The immediate gratification of getting Stenberg is incredibly tempting, adding a guy to the NHL team day one versus waiting a year.

But even if Stenberg is a lot more physical and defensive minded than their other small forwards, a 6’2” center who is stylistically a Toews/Bergeron type of player is probably more what they need than another under 6-foot winger. And Malhotra is 8 months younger with a lot of room still to grow.

Push Frondell and Nazar to the wings and roll with a top 6 of Frondell-Bedard-Kantserov and Nazar-Malhotra-Lardis (or Moore).

It’s not a bad thing if all 3 of the forwards are gone and they have to pick whoever is the best defensemen in the draft, since they do need another one. But I’d still much prefer one of the forwards and think I’m at the point where I’m not going to be disappointed at all if it’s Malhotra instead of Stenberg. Only thing that will piss me off is if Stenberg is there at 4 and they pick a defenseman anyway.

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

not every day my hometown team has a chance to draft an indian guy

Posted by torinese <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=torinese' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 14, 2026, 18:31:55, in reply to "They probably get neither, but I think I’ve been gaslit into preferring Malhotra over Stenberg"

(even if it's only 1/4th)

Previous Message

Kantserov terminates KHL contract

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 8, 2026, 19:54:36, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

welcome to Chicago!

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Get out before he’s sent to the front*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 12, 2026, 23:02:05, in reply to "Kantserov terminates KHL contract"

There is the real possibility that Carolina may go 11 days between games

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 8, 2026, 9:06:35, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Should they win Saturday and the Sabres / Habs series go the full 7 games

Dumb to have the Canes / Flyers start their series before the others finished round 1

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

Scott Wheeler mock

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 8:59:50, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

has Hawks taking Stenberg.

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

That’s now 3 I would consider pretty reputable that have all had that.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 10:32:22, in reply to "Scott Wheeler mock"

Though I also acknowledge that it’s a more interesting article for people to click on if you don’t just go chalk. So there could be some of that in play.

Wheeler is probably the #1 guy out there for hockey prospect info though.

Previous Message

has Hawks taking Stenberg.

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Didn't realize until today Malnotra's father coaches in the VAN organization

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 15:09:06, in reply to "That’s now 3 I would consider pretty reputable that have all had that."

so if SJ goes D I think there's a pretty good shot Stenberg drops to 4

I worry that too many of these guys are connecting those dots with too much confidence

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 15:22:52, in reply to "Didn't realize until today Malnotra's father coaches in the VAN organization"

While I’m sure that at least to some degree influences the chances they’d take his kid, it would be serious organizational malpractice to pick a worse player just because of a relative in the front office.

Previous Message

so if SJ goes D I think there's a pretty good shot Stenberg drops to 4

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Agreed. Nobody knows anything at this point

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 15:26:29, in reply to "I worry that too many of these guys are connecting those dots with too much confidence"

but one can dream

Trying not to get hopes up. I just don't see it actually playing out that way*

Posted by UofIL6 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=UofIL6' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 9:50:47, in reply to "Scott Wheeler mock"

Previous Message

has Hawks taking Stenberg.

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

same*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 10:36:45, in reply to "Trying not to get hopes up. I just don't see it actually playing out that way*"

Previous Message

has Hawks taking Stenberg.

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Really nice goal by Kirby Dach

Posted by KingTalkyTiki <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=KingTalkyTiki' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 19:43:23, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

*sigh*

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

Did he hurt himself while doing it?

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 19:45:41, in reply to "Really nice goal by Kirby Dach"

Do not miss him, sorry

Previous Message

*sigh*

Getting a 1st round pick (Nazar) for him was actually highway robbery*

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 20:49:31, in reply to "Did he hurt himself while doing it?"

Previous Message

Do not miss him, sorry

Previous Message

*sigh*

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Mtl buf this round is a travesty. Should be east finals*

Posted by John Coctostan <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=John+Coctostan' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 18:04:30, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Of the teams left, these are my two favs.*

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

I hate the NHL playoff format*

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 18:08:46, in reply to "Mtl buf this round is a travesty. Should be east finals*"

Really g

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Already seen multiple mock drafts from reputable people that have Stenberg going 4th

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 11:37:37, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

I’m not buying it but the thinking seems to be:

1) The rankings of the top 4 aren’t nearly as consensus as is being let on.
2) San Jose at #2 desperately needs a defenseman more than another forward
3) Vancouver at #3 needs a center as top priority and Malhotra’s dad works in the front office

I find it hard to believe that both those teams wouldn’t have Stenberg in their top 2 or would prioritize positional need over best player available, so I won’t get my hopes up.

I also don’t know if SJ would have any interest in letting the Blackhawks get the player they want without a massive overpay, but if SJ does in fact want to take a defenseman then Davidson should be willing to be pretty aggressive in trying to move up to #2 if that conversation is on the table at all. If it’s McKenna at #1 and Blackhawks trade up to #2, VAN will take Malholtra at #3 and SJ can get their guy at #4 while also accumulating a bunch more assets.

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Please let it happen (but I don't buy it at all)*

Posted by UofIL6 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=UofIL6' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 17:02:19, in reply to "Already seen multiple mock drafts from reputable people that have Stenberg going 4th"

Previous Message

Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective

Posted by CanHartlebHireSnider <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=CanHartlebHireSnider' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 10:44:55, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

This will be Kyle's 6th season as GM. 6 seasons covers the entire Blackhawks dynasty Cup run from 2009-2015.

The Blackhawks have made the playoffs 1 time in the last 9 seasons and it was the covid season which 24 teams made the tournament.

From 1997-2008 the previous low point in Blackhawks history they made the playoffs once in 10 seasons.

So if the Hawks don't make the playoffs next year which seems unlikely they will tie that ignominious record.

All this in a league where 50% of the teams make the playoffs and puck luck creates randomness higher than any sport.

Acquiring draft picks and cap space is useful and a plus but a big part of why it is useful is to actually spend it to acquire competitive talent. Not to hold it back or to use it solely on draft picks that take years to develop.

There is 0 reason why it needs to take almost a decade to put a competitive hockey team on the ice. Most orgs that can't do that are usually doing so because of incompetence.

Two things I’d push back on

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 18:56:34, in reply to "Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective"

1) It’s only been 4 seasons since they decided to rebuild, not nearly a decade. His first two years he was saddled with the old and cap-strapped rosters of Stan Bowman, teams that had no chance of winning anything meaningful. They were still signing guys like Marc Andre Fleury 5 years ago. If this was 6 years into the rebuild with no results to show for it yet, I’d be pissed too. But we’re just going into year 5 and I expect the next 2 years to be much better.

2) It probably won’t work the way we want it to, but in this new era where free agency is completely dead and teams no longer need to trade good players for contract reasons (at least not for a few more years), I’m guessing that at least 1/3 to 1/2 of the GM’s in the league would swap places with the Blackhawks right now. They are far better set up for future success than the likes of the Kings, Predators, Blues, Senators, Penguins, Kraken, Red Wings, etc. - teams that have tried to stay borderline competitive but with no chance of ever winning anything.

Previous Message

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

There are no Marian Hossa hitting FA any more*

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 19:38:12, in reply to "Two things I’d push back on"

Previous Message

1) It’s only been 4 seasons since they decided to rebuild, not nearly a decade. His first two years he was saddled with the old and cap-strapped roasters of Stan Bowman, teams that had no chance of winning anything meaningful. They were still signing guys like Marc Andre Fleury 5 years ago. If this was 6 years into the rebuild with no results to show for it yet, I’d be pissed too. But we’re just going into year 5 and I expect the next 2 years to be much better.

2) It probably won’t work the way we want it to, but in this new era where free agency is completely dead and teams no longer need to trade good players for contract seasons (at least not for a few more years), I’m guessing that at least 1/3 to 1/2 of the GM’s in the league would swap places with the Blackhawks right now. They are far better set up for future success than the likes of the Kings, Predators, Blues, Senators, Penguins, Kraken, Red Wings, etc. - teams that have tried to stay borderline competitive but with no chance of ever winning anything.

Previous Message

Even if you bump the timeline back to when they drafted Toews

Posted by RVA <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=RVA' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 16:31:07, in reply to "Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective"

The Hawks should have been serious contenders this season and primed to win the cup next year.

Looking at that 05-06 roster just before the Toews draft, though, and there are a bunch of players who played that season who would have significant roles in the championships four years later and beyond: Keith, Seabrook, Sharp, Byfuglien, even Barker and Corey Crawford had a roster spot already. Is there anyone pre-Bedard even left on the team, let alone who would match the production of anyone named above?

There's different ways to build a contender but good lord did this current team start with nothing. Still gotta find a way to make it happen. Every other team has.

I know people disagree and I hope I’m wrong, but that Lev pick was a disaster*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 15:02:20, in reply to "Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective"

I am sadly very skeptical of his drafting ability

I am giving many a chance but outside of Bedard we are pushing it a bit. It's getting to be put up or shut up time for many of these picks as they close in on RFA status.

His 1st pick Korchinski already seems like a bust sadly. Nazar picked it up a bit at the end and has had some injury obstacles but he needs to get it going. Already got the big contract.

Rinzel maybe is showing some signs but a project defenseman.

Levshunov was obviously a mistake over Demidov. Demidov putting up 60+ points in his first full season. Didn't like the pick at the time. #2 pick in the draft and still a very large work in progress.

Frondell needs to be the guy. I am hopeful he can come in and provide another top end talent and maybe Kantserov can help out.

Boisvert had a ridiculous year last year and I'm getting to be down on him. Maybe Lardis can provide some goals. Oliver Moore hasn't done much yet but hopefully the speed plays and if they can get some more talent to help the offense will play.

Nestrasil intrigues me and I'd like to see Vanacker a bit more.

GMAFB. He's 20

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 15:13:04, in reply to "I know people disagree and I hope I’m wrong, but that Lev pick was a disaster*"

If any pick borders on "bust' it's probably Korchinski but he's also only 21, so lots of road yet to travel there, too.

He was the No. 2 pick. He wasn't No. 7 (KK), or No. 54 (Keith).*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 9:44:54, in reply to "GMAFB. He's 20"

Previous Message

sure, you can certainly argue Demidov would've been better but JFC give the kid a chance. Duncan Keith was brutal his first few years. Not that he will become that but god, let's let it play out. Jesus. If any pick borders on "bust' it's probably Korchinski but he's also only 21, so lots of road yet to travel there, too.

Meaningless. Development is not linear especially for D men

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 7, 2026, 15:10:55, in reply to "He was the No. 2 pick. He wasn't No. 7 (KK), or No. 54 (Keith).*"

amazing that a guy can be deemed a disaster before turning 21

He can’t hear me. It’s okay for me to doubt the pick. I hope he’s a no. 1 guy.*

Posted by cpsteine <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=cpsteine' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 19:10:25, in reply to "GMAFB. He's 20"

It’s weird to deem it disastrous before he can legally drink

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 19:36:59, in reply to "He can’t hear me. It’s okay for me to doubt the pick. I hope he’s a no. 1 guy.*"

My beef is with the word choice. Most Hawks fans preferred
Demidov but way to early to judge

Keith's first few years were at the start of the rebuild, not the end though*

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 16:47:13, in reply to "GMAFB. He's 20"

Previous Message

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Doesn’t matter. Giving up on a 20 yo is ridiculous

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 17:59:45, in reply to "Keith's first few years were at the start of the rebuild, not the end though* "

Calling the pick disastrous is ridiculous

Time will tell how good he becomes but all the folks who analyze the draft had him as a potential top D man. Now is the time to work out the rough edges so in 3 years when he’s all of 23! he may be ready to fill that role on a playoff team

Previous Message

And they keep trading for contracts to get to the floor rather than actually get players to the ice*

Posted by illini222 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=illini222' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 11:27:08, in reply to "Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective"

Previous Message

Drink Everytime Brad Underwood says "Elite" in a press conference.

Yet still in the NHL's Top 5 average home attendance

I'm afraid the cup run has bought them waaaaaaaay too much runway for this never-ending "rebuild".

I'm still going to games, so I'm as guilty as anyone of enabling it.

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

they're just following the Bulls' model

Posted by IlliniSax05 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=IlliniSax05' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 11:36:17, in reply to "Yet still in the NHL's Top 5 average home attendance"

regularly one of the league leaders in attendance, often leading the league, despite being no better than mediocre for over a decade.

why bother improving the team if fans are still showing up?

Why do you hate me, Sammich?

MAJOR UPDATE: "Maybe you're not such a bad egg, Lisle-y"
-Sammich, 1/15/2011

this could be chilling news for Bulls fans

Posted by Sammich <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=Sammich' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 11:58:36, in reply to "they're just following the Bulls' model"

The assumption was always that one of the reasons Jerry seemed to target mediocrity was to protect the fan support at the gate. If he finds out that isn't necessary, then it's over for us hoes.

I want to break it up
I want to smash it up
I want to #### it up
I want to watch it come down

I was looking for a good team to make an analogy with

...and you nailed it, they were right there in the same barn.

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

Who should they sign? Who should they trade for?

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 10:53:12, in reply to "Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective"

FA classes suck now. I doubt the Leafs trade Nies now. Robert Thomas isn’t being moved for #4

I get the impatience and I agree that ideally it’s time to make that move, but signing/trading for vets just because isn’t a good plan unless there are actual realistic targets and right now I don’t see any.

Previous Message

Connor McDavid

Posted by IlliniSax05 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=IlliniSax05' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 10:53:49, in reply to "Who should they sign? Who should they trade for?"

Why do you hate me, Sammich?

MAJOR UPDATE: "Maybe you're not such a bad egg, Lisle-y"
-Sammich, 1/15/2011

Never much in-between with the Hawks. Either very good or completely hopeless.

Posted by Warrin'_Illini $<iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=Warrin\'_Illini' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'>$ on May 6, 2026, 10:50:34, in reply to "Just to put the Kyle Davidson tenure into some perspective"

The middle isn't the place to be either but it's been a while since it seemed like they were worth following. Hopefully can get Bedard some help asap.

Previous Message

You cannot lose games in the NFL and still win.

Cool cool another project defenseman most likely

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

*Deep sigh**

Posted by KingTalkyTiki <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=KingTalkyTiki' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 19:28:01, in reply to "Cool cool another project defenseman most likely"

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

I hear they love Malhotra

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 19:07:16, in reply to "Cool cool another project defenseman most likely"

No idea if he’d go 3rd though

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

He could definitely go top 3, but if it’s not one of the two elite guys…

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 19:17:57, in reply to "I hear they love Malhotra"

then I think they need a stud defenseman more.

Previous Message

No idea if he’d go 3rd though

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

What a disaster. Bedard deserves better.*

Posted by Toonces <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=Toonces' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:52:30, in reply to "Cool cool another project defenseman most likely"

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

I’m ugly.

Not sure how much of a market there will be, but they should try to trade it.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:43:58, in reply to "Cool cool another project defenseman most likely"

#3 would have been so much better though. I’m sure SJS will end up taking Stenberg, but they really need defenseman so there would be at least a chance at #3.

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

To whom? For whom?

Posted by bjl63 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=bjl63' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 8:52:26, in reply to "Not sure how much of a market there will be, but they should try to trade it."

I don’t think the market is all that robust

And certainly no difference making FA

So as much as we want to kick start this bit, there is not likely anyone that’ll move the needle

Previous Message

#3 would have been so much better though. I’m sure SJS will end up taking Stenberg, but they really need defenseman so there would be at least a chance at #3.

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

Agree there’s probably not a good enough player available to justify trading it

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 6, 2026, 9:10:08, in reply to "To whom? For whom?"

Just would hope they are aggressive in at least exploring those options.

Previous Message

I don’t think the market is all that robust

And certainly no difference making FA

So as much as we want to kick start this bit, there is not likely anyone that’ll move the needle

Previous Message

#3 would have been so much better though. I’m sure SJS will end up taking Stenberg, but they really need defenseman so there would be at least a chance at #3.

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Yep. Terrible*

Posted by UofIL6 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=UofIL6' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:36:48, in reply to "Cool cool another project defenseman most likely"

Previous Message

Which will take more years and give Davidson more job security

The Sam Hinkie of hockey

At least I take solace in knowing some kid gets screwed up by Toronto*

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:29:38, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

What an incredibly annoying outcome. Damn*

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:27:01, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Fvck. The Sharks get #2*

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:26:48, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

Dammit.*

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:18:40, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

what a disaster*

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:26:43, in reply to "Dammit.*"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

The Sharks getting Stenberg is quite bad. What a bummer.*

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:30:03, in reply to "what a disaster* "

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

ok this is good tv*

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:17:49, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

oh fuck that, the Leafs got the #1 pick*

Posted by assassin <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=assassin' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:18:17, in reply to "ok this is good tv* "

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Draft lottery tonight. Blackhawks 2nd best odds but really just need to get #1 or #2

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 10:17:20, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Easier said than done since it’s still only a 28% chance of being in the top 2.

But either of the top 2 gets them a day one forward that is on the team immediately and projects as an All-Star caliber player, which in theory would round out the rebuild from a roster construction standpoint. Obviously still need a bunch of those guys to hit for it actually work, but it would give them all the puzzle pieces.

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

So what's up with the Blackhawks? Making any progress in the rebuild?

Posted by illini21 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=illini21' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 10:27:47, in reply to "Draft lottery tonight. Blackhawks 2nd best odds but really just need to get #1 or #2"

Are the recent high draft picks other than Bedard performing well?

Previous Message

Probably will need to revisit that question a year from now.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 11:01:48, in reply to "So what's up with the Blackhawks? Making any progress in the rebuild?"

They definitely didn’t want or expect to be the 2nd worst team in the league last year, but they certainly weren’t ready to contend for the playoffs.

In theory it’s still early in the rebuild, most of their best prospects are either not here yet or are yet to play a full season’s worth of games (Frondell, Kantserov, Rinzel, Lardis, Moore, Nestrasil, Vanacker, Boisvert). And evidence of this still being earlier in the process than it feels like is that they have the #1 or #2 rated prospect pools in the NHL - the bulk of the team they’re building isn’t here yet or just got here.

It’s just frustrating that a tear down rebuild in hockey like this is a 6-7 year process. And there are no longer any good free agents in hockey, nor do teams need to unload salaries right now due to the rising cap. So the timing of the big cap increase was really bad for the Blackhawks, not only for those reasons but because Bedard and all other guys they want to re-sign will have to be signed at the new higher cap numbers. Whereas other teams have longer-term contracts locked in that were scaled to the old cap numbers.

I’m not sure if it’s going to work but I do think it’s generally going as planned to this point. This coming season will be the first one where the bulk of the roster will be made up by guys that actually matter for the future, so now we’ll really start to get answers. I do think they’ll still be bad but hopefully a lot of guys showing real promise.

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

They have been uniquely bad for a long period of time

They are only the second team in NHL history to finish bottom 2 for 4 straight years. There is no reason this has to be a 6-7 year process and it shouldn't be. It only is because they have chosen for it to be and because Wirtz has given Davidson that leash.

If you look at how elite NHL rosters are constructed very few of them rely heavily on the draft. Even the other team the 1998-2001 Lightning that ended up winning the cup in 2004 did so with very few players drafted from that run.

It's on the GM to put together a winning roster and Davidson has failed to show he has the ability to put together a competitive roster over 5 seasons. That's not impressive.

For example the best team in hockey the Florida Panthers the last few years

On their first cup team they had 3 players drafted by the Panthers.

And one of them was Dmitry Kulikov who was drafted in 2009 and left the Panthers in 2016 and then played for 9 more teams before returning to Florida in 2023.

So in reality 2 players. You don't build a NHL championship level (or playoff level) team by drafting million kids and then waiting 6 years for the hopeful payoff.

You draft a couple elite kids (like Barkov and Ekblad) and use the rest of your resources to allocate talent around them to put a competitive roster on the ice. The Panthers made the playoffs 3 years after drafting them ( won their division) and were at least competitive in other years.

Most organizations would not be this patient. I think it's ridiculous to think you need this long to put a competitive roster on the ice. We shouldn't be bottom of the barrel for a half decade. You have to put at least some rosters that can try to compete for playoff spot.

I don’t disagree and when we debated this before I said there’s a reason no one does this.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 12:01:14, in reply to "For example the best team in hockey the Florida Panthers the last few years"

Because it takes way too long and the odds of it working are slim.

But the decision to go down this road was made years ago and you can’t go back and change that. So whether I agree with it or not, I’m evaluating it based on how they are executing the plan they put in place. And that plan is going to take that long to accomplish whether we like it or not.

It would be dumb to give up on it after 4 years and start trading prospects for mediocre players or overpaying for middling free agents now. It probably won’t work but they’re finally at the point where they SHOULD start reaping the benefits of the plan.

There have definitely been some misses but there’s a lot that has gone right too. Some they don’t get any credit for (lucking into winning the Bedard lottery) but others are more worthy of at least some praise (turning the Seth Jones albatross contract into your long-term goalie, drafting Kantserov and Lardis in the 2nd/3rd rounds, using a late 1st on a ‘reach’ that is now showing up on Top 25 prospect lists (Nestrasil), etc.

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

They really need either McKenna or Stenberg but I'm not even 100% confident they'd draft one

Even if they're top 2.

Put Stenberg with Frondell please.

That does worry me a bit if they get #2 and they think McKenna is too similar to their other guys

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 10:35:20, in reply to "They really need either McKenna or Stenberg but I'm not even 100% confident they'd draft one"

But they can’t pass up an elite forward for a defensemen again after doing that once already with Levshounov and Demidov. They just can’t.

Stenberg is the perfect fit.

Previous Message

Even if they're top 2.

Put Stenberg with Frondell please.

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

This game is nuts*

Posted by BradUnderwoodforprez <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=BradUnderwoodforprez' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 3, 2026, 22:43:14, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

The home crowd scenes for Buffalo/Montreal will be the best part of the whole plsyoffs*

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 3, 2026, 19:54:38, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

...and I'd be pleased with either outcome.

Posted by KingTalkyTiki <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=KingTalkyTiki' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 3, 2026, 21:00:52, in reply to "The home crowd scenes for Buffalo/Montreal will be the best part of the whole plsyoffs*"

A bit more pleased with Buffalo because man seeing that fanbase get a cup would be amazing.

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

Every-time a Canadian hockey team beats a Florida team in the playoffs...

...things feel just a bit more right in the world.

"You must own the honor of being the whitest, military vet, fat, multiple state property owner but most of all the one who hates their own country the most in our country."

absolutely. it’s a return to nature. *

Posted by memyselfandillini <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=memyselfandillini' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 5, 2026, 18:33:01, in reply to "Every-time a Canadian hockey team beats a Florida team in the playoffs..."

Previous Message

...things feel just a bit more right in the world.

Every stadium will have these next season.

Posted by OB25 <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=OB25' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 2, 2026, 21:55:10, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

I never but novelty/souvenir items at games, but I’d buy one of these.

https://x.com/canes/status/2050622502745837668?s=61&t=obkYTPkbGlNfrGoozxL-mg

When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Interesting stat ABC just provided in the Canes / Flyers

Posted by timmer <iframe src='https://mb.boardhost.com/TheDeuce/info/user=timmer' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on May 2, 2026, 19:30:38, in reply to "NHL Playoffs"

Canes are 4-0 in the playoffs this season when scoring first.

It’s kind of a given when they swept the Sens in round 1

Previous Message

Bruins are playing like this is some throwaway game up in Rochester

(for rent)

« Back to index

479

[ The Deuce ]