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GCool · 03-29-2021, 09:13 PM

Code:
1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

I think the best thing that happened in the entirety of S58 was the San Fransisco Pride exceeding many people’s expectations, taking money out of the hands of quite a few SHL Casino bettors, and winning 20 games this year. If I just said they got twice the number of wins that New Orleans did, that’d still be impressive – but 20?! From just 4 wins (and 71 goals scored, oof) in S56, to 12 wins in S57, and now 20 and successfully jumping a team that imploded itself for the sake of … some picks? I’m not quite sure. Maybe they sold out before I started paying attention. At any rate, the team’s future is very bright, as they’ve been collecting quite a few picks and their farm looks very impressive from an earner’s perspective. They’re certainly in the weaker of the two conferences, but right now everybody’s sort of playing for that “hey I just want playoffs” spot, so there’s nothing wrong with that – maybe they’ll break that 30 win mark next year? [174]

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2. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Oh no, the head honchos of the league are worried that there aren't enough story lines for the finals! Therefore they're changing the rules for the finals. The home team will get to choose to either a) play the whole game with 6 skaters on the ice at a time or b) be immune from penalties/offsides/icing. Whatever the home team chooses, the visitors get the other perk. Which one are you choosing, given the choice and why?

I’m absolutely picking immunity from penalties/offside/icing. The lack of offsides and icing will be very important especially if we’re attempting to stave off an extra attacker for the entire game. But, if you keep fighting and attempting to injure players on the other team, they’re either a) going to get hurt and run out of people or b) retaliate and get in the penalty box themselves. Either outcome works to my favor, since it’s either going to be an ‘even strength penalty’ sort of situation with 5 on 5 (or even 5 on 4, should they really slip up) OR a bunch of fatigued and hurt players out there. [109]

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4. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

If you're sitting at home watching the Finals: What do you plan on doing differently next season to help your team reach the promised land? If you're playing in the Finals: Is there anything different you plan on doing next season to continue your team's success?

I think there’s a lot Anaheim needs to do from the ground up to make it to the Finals next season. Honestly, a few of those things are out of their control: teams like Kelowna, Quebec City, and Newfoundland are going to have strong squads almost yearly (which was unheard of in the Juniors even a dozen seasons ago). It’s going to come down to strategies and a confident set of lines to eek out a few wins against those squads. But the single MOST important thing for the Outlaws to do is stay true to themselves as a unit. There are quite a few players who just survived their first season while getting absolutely pounded (though somehow winning more games than St. Louis or Maine). It takes a lot of grit and tenacity to keep earning when things are bad and to keep building like you know you should when you get to that 350 cap. There’s just a little TPE between the two caps that can fix a mistake, so balance is key! And consistency wins above all else. As we know, once you get to the playoffs, anything can really happen – look at Anaheim’s run to the Finals in S57, for one. Just gotta keep earning and do the needful. [213]

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6. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

What's your prediction for this season's IIHF tournament? Which teams do you expect to do well (or not well)? Which players?

IIHF is slowly becoming more interesting to me because I’m going to actually be playing … this season? Maybe waiting one more because the timing is all screwy? But at any rate, I think IIHF is easiest to predict by looking at last season’s standings. The same few teams are going to have a chance at winning their groups – Canada, Germany, Great Britain, United States – and I’m going to give Japan an outside shot of winning Group A. Group B definitely seems like the easier one to predict, as Austria and Latvia are both pretty awful right now. That 4/5 spot might get interesting though, with Sweden and Ireland likely jockeying for position there. In Group A I’m interested to see who’s in that same position. I think it’s going to be up to guys like Dwight Knight and Goku Muerto on Norway and Michael Scarn and Piotr Czerkawski on Team Czechia to carry their offensive production through the entire group stage to steal a point or two and put them in 4th. I’m gonna give the edge to Scarn with his monster year this year. [186]

Code:
15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SHL Milestones: https://simulationhockey.com/showthread.php?tid=114645

SMJHL Milestones (for senddowns): TBD

+3 for SMJHL Milestones

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

For as much as my disc golf buddies dragged me back into this game, I'm really thankful that @sve7en took a chance on drafting me to the big leagues. The group in LAP has been incredible, with @slothfacekilla , @FuzzSHL , @TheDangaZone , @Gumbaman , @Allegiant , and many more I'm failing to mention, day in and day out, just having good conversation and enjoying each other's company. Sorry for the way-too-many notifications in advance, my dudes. But with all the shit I have going on with the baby on the way and my crazy Twitch thing that I barely thought would get off the ground, you guys have been nothing but fresh air. Can't wait to actually share the ice with you guys!

Arkz · 03-29-2021, 09:45 PM

16/16 TPE

Quote:1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)
While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

There was a lot to be surprised about this season. Some good, and some bad. Let's go with what we thought was bad here, since I'm sure all the other replies are going to be about their surprise regarding how well their team played. Let's instead talk about how surprising it was that some teams were not good. Its no secret that the New Orleans Specters are in a rebuilding mode. After numerous seasons at the top and a few cups, it was going to come sooner or later. And, unfortunately for the purple boys, it finally arrived in the last few seasons. But while the team took a big step back last season, this season was even more of a difficult showing. They just squeaked by the double-digit win total and let in an absolutely preposterous amount of goals by the end of the season. Fortunately for the Specters, there's light at the end of the tunnel but who could have predicted their performance this year?

Quote:4. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)
If you're sitting at home watching the Finals: What do you plan on doing differently next season to help your team reach the promised land? If you're playing in the Finals: Is there anything different you plan on doing next season to continue your team's success?

Its hard to feel bad about our season in Vancouver. Despite the fact that our roster was heavily depleted, we still managed to make it to the second round and dragged a very strong Kelowna team to game seven. Personally, my season was a big improvement on last year, so its hard to know where to go from there. Next season, in the SMJHL, I want to continue my streak of excellence and capture as many Vancouver records as I can. But I'm also starting to shift my focus to the SHL side of things, and sliding into goal for the New Orleans Specters. I'm not ready to be called up full-time just yet, but I'm anxious to at least get some starts in the big leagues and prove myself to the league and my new teammates. I have some big shoes to fill in New Orleans, but I think I'm equal to the task and can't wait for the challenge.

Quote:12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.
a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

Hamilton finished ahead of Buffalo in the standings by a lot in terms of points, but that only tells part of the story. When looking at the actual differential and stats, the teams were much closer than their overall record would admit. If Buffalo is able to control the pace of play and keep that Hamilton offense penned in, they are in good shape.

Quote:b. Hamilton was 3rd in the league in GF this season. Buffalo was 2nd in GA. This begs the age old question: what will win out, a great defense or a great offense? Why?

The defense usually wins the day, mostly because the offense can be inconsistent. If you're used to scoring four or five times a game and then all of a sudden score one or two, you might be in trouble. Buffalo, however, is comfortable in those games and a low scoring affair suites their play.

Quote:c. Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

I have to be honest, the Hamilton branding has to be some of the most boring in the league. There would probably be less people upset at their continued dominance if they were an actually interesting team to look at. Muted colors, nothing that pops, and an overdone bird logo. Boring as hell. Buffalo has a great color scheme and an interesting name.

Quote:d. It's all come down to this: game seven overtime. Which four players are you sending out to win the game for you. This is in a fantasy sense, so feel free to mix and match from both teams.

Honestly this is a tough question, as both teams have some absolutely dominant players that will go into the Hall of Fame some day. If I had to pick a lineup, I'd start with Bobby Sharp at Center and Monkey D. Luffy at Right Wing, both players coming over from Buffalo. Next I'd want Theo Morgan at Left Wing, and then Hugh Jazz at left defense and Alexander Selich at right defense. Finally, give me Elizabeth Doyle from BUF between the pipes and I'm all set.

Quote:15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE
New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SMJHL Milestones

Quote:16. Written, 3 TPE
I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

This area is going to be a shout out to the GM's I've had in my time here at the league. Starting off with @boomand @dmills3, who welcomed me to the league and the Vancouver Whalers. Both were supremely helpful and friendly, which is all you can really ask for as a new player in the league. If I ever had a question, they were there to answer it. They made my first season in the league one I'll never forget. Also a special shout out to @Dextaria, who took over for Mills and has done an awesome job in Vancouver as well. In the SHL, @Nictox and @JKortesi81 have been a lot of fun, and I'd like to thank them for drafting me and making me part of such a historic and illustrious franchise. Can't wait to get called up and help get the team back on track and continuing to fill the franchise trophy room!

*traphag* · 03-29-2021, 10:07 PM

PBE +3

Code:
2. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Oh no, the head honchos of the league are worried that there aren't enough story lines for the finals! Therefore they're changing the rules for the finals. The home team will get to choose to either a) play the whole game with 6 skaters on the ice at a time or b) be immune from penalties/offsides/icing. Whatever the home team chooses, the visitors get the other perk. Which one are you choosing, given the choice and why?

Oh my, this is getting crazy! I could probably argue for either choice but ultimately I'm in favor of being immune from penalties. Basically, we're going to be allowed to cheat and do whatever we want and get away with it. They could put two extra guys on the floor and our dirty, dirty team would probably still be at an advantage. I just feel like the possibilities become endless once you're able to break all of the rules. I mean, we just see that a lot in day to day life, not just in hockey, but that's going beyond the scope of the question. Sure, you might argue that guys are more used to playing the game the "right" way so it wouldn't be as big of an advantage, but they're also not used to playing with an extra guy so that argument is not especially great. Regardless, it should be quite entertaining! (154 words.)

Code:
4. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

If you're sitting at home watching the Finals: What do you plan on doing differently next season to help your team reach the promised land? If you're playing in the Finals: Is there anything different you plan on doing next season to continue your team's success?

I'm not sure there's much I can do differently to help my team along other than keep working and keep getting better. Everyone knows that the San Francisco Pride is just now coming out of an epic rebuild and I'm one of the older players on the squad. So I've been the tank commander for some fairly pitiful teams, but now our awesome prospects are coming up and we exceeded expectations, landed in the playoffs, and took Toronto the seven games. That's more than anyone ever expected out of us this year and we're going to get another year of seasoning and take it up another notch next season. The guys in the locker room are great and our GMs are doing everything they can to make this team the best it can possibly be as quickly as possible. It won't be long until we're in the finals, hopefully hoisting up that trophy. All we need is a little bit more time and experience. (164 words.)

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5. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Which SHL or SMJHL team was the best team to not make the finals this season and why?

I would have to say that this honor goes to the Texas Renegades. When I made my predictions I had them winning it all because they seemed head and shoulders above everyone else. They had dynamic scorers like Edward Williams and Josef Kubinec and dynamic defenders like Bjorn Leppanen. They had one of the best goalie duos in the league with White Goodman and Cillian Kavanagh. They were great everywhere on the rink, dominated in the regular season, and really should have been in the finals. I'm not sure what happened. Not only to not make the finals but to lose in five games? What happened there? (107 words.)

Code:
15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SHL Milestones: https://simulationhockey.com/showthread.php?tid=114645

SMJHL Milestones (for senddowns): TBD

Milestones +3

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

Heck yeah, positivity! I don't really venture out into the wild of the forums on anywhere beyond my team's locker rooms so I wish I knew a lot of folks better. However, I am extremely fond of everybody in the San Francisco Pride locker room. Henrik and AgentSmith have done a great job of setting the tone, staying positive even during the darkest rebuilding years, and for always keeping the conversation going. Those two have such enthusiasm for the team and it really is infectious. They've also done a really nice job of choosing people who are a great fit for the team in every way. From my fellow captain LordBirdman, to our glorious goalie of the future Rancidbudgie, to all the fantastic prospects who will be joining the big leagues soon (including our favorite alien nyumbayangu), we have a lot of fun. And that's going to make things even more wonderful when the San Francisco Pride dynasty truly comes to fruition. What a fantastic team! (166 words.)

zeagle1 · 03-29-2021, 10:37 PM

ISFL Affiliate +3 TPE

1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?
The most surprising part of the season, for me, was the Baltimore platoon making the playoffs. As a platoon send down myself, I knew we were cautiously optimistic about this season. While we are still a few seasons away from truly competing for a challenge cup, a combination of a terrible division and some sim luck brought us into the playoffs. We may have gotten throttled by Edmonton in the first round, but we still won a playoff game, which will be a huge boost to our future. The brightest spot of the season was how strongly we closed out the regular season, which truly surprised me. We managed to win 14 of our last 20 games, getting points in 15 of them, which shows that next season, if we can continue that form we can surprise people by maybe winning a playoff series or two! I think BAP is going to be the biggest surprise next season too!

Code:
159 Words

12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.

Code:
a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

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b. Hamilton was 3rd in the league in GF this season. Buffalo was 2nd in GA. This begs the age old question: what will win out, a great defense or a great offense? Why?

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c. Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

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d. It's all come down to this: game seven overtime. Which four players are you sending out to win the game for you. This is in a fantasy sense, so feel free to mix and match from both teams.

a. Well, Buffalo made it to the finals largely due to their amazing goalie play. Elizabeth Doyle has been hands down the most important player in the league, skater or goalie, and all Buffalo needs to do to win the championship is to minimize giving up breakaways and other cheap goals to keep her hot.

(59 words)

b. Well, it really depends on how the first game of the series goes. Defense is built on confidence, so even just one solid game on defense proves that you can do it. Offense is the product of maximizing opportunity, and against a great defense, the opportunities will be negligible so it is about being as clinical as possible.

(58 words)

c. Hamilton's branding is far superior to Buffalo's branding. I am personally not a fan of the green and yellow together, it looks fine but it does not really pop out. Meanwhile, Hamilton's blue on silver is an all-time classic color combo in my opinion, and as an Eagles fan, I am partial to any bird mascot.

(52 Words)

d. Well to win a game seven overtime, I would send out a team of mew twos. Mew Two is one of the best players in the juniors this past season and I think he has what it takes to win a game. He can score, he can assist. He can't really play defense but that's ok because he can score

(60 words)

15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

Goals -> 18 or more Yes

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Assists -> 23 or more Yes

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Points -> 48 or more Yes

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+/- -> +13 or higher Yes

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Penalty Minutes -> 12 or fewer No

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Shots on goal -> 135 or more Yes

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Hits -> 34 or more No 

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Takeaways -> 10 or more Yes

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Shots Blocked -> 47 or more No

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Fights Won -> 1 or more No

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Powerplay Points -> 9 or more Yes

Total=7

16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

Well I'm gonna continue on my theme of saying nice things about my friends. Hordle is simply the most amazing person in sim leagues and I am so lucky to be in the same LR as him in two different leagues. Evok is an awesome GM and the Heart and soul of Quebec's LR. Flex is every bit as awesome as Evok, and is one of the best players I've ever had the pleasure of GMing in the ISFL/DSFL. Kev is another awesome teammate who's the glue that holds the LR together. Mat is another glue guy and the dog in the drog that is our goalie tandem, I will miss him dearly when he is called up. LB is another fantastic guy who I'm super thankful to be in two LRs with, and hopefully he succeeds me as GM someday ;) .

Some people who are not on my teams but are awesome are Amid, Zayn (Xan?), Simo, Dwight Knight, Z-Whiz, Hotdog, and a plethora of others!

*Count Chocula* · 03-29-2021, 10:56 PM

Code:
1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

I think the most surprising part to the season came from the SF Pride series against the North Stars. They were the #17 seed going up against the #3 seed in what should have been a beat down by the hands of Toronto. Against all expectations the Pride scared the hell out of Toronto's playoff dreams by taking them all the way to game 7 of their play in series. Toronto barely even got into the playoffs after missing out entirely last season. It was just a complete shock that the Pride put up that much of a fight after only winning 20 regular season games. It's interesting to think what could have happened, as the North Stars were 1 goal away from a ticket to the Finals. That means The 17th seeded Pride were theoretically just 2 games away from making the finals as a #17 seed. It would of been wild and a welcome unexpected matchup in the Challenge Cup Finals had they been able to pull off the Cinderella story.

Code:
4. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

If you're sitting at home watching the Finals: What do you plan on doing differently next season to help your team reach the promised land? If you're playing in the Finals: Is there anything different you plan on doing next season to continue your team's success?

Unfortunately I am home watching the finals on TV again this season. The Panthers once again failed to win or play in series to make it to the playoffs. While it was a tough matchup against a team we don't see often I feel like we should have done better in the season to get a more favorable matchup altogether. While I personally improved my offensive output this season, it did not have the overall impact for the team that I had hoped for. My defensive stats were just about the same as the season before. I had hoped a more dynamic play style would lead to more team scoring through the season, sadly that was not the case. The chemistry just felt off this season, but I think we will get things back on track heading into the new season. The locker room is tired of early exists and ready to get some post season action.

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5. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Which SHL or SMJHL team was the best team to not make the finals this season and why?

The Newfoundland Berserkers were without a doubt the best SMJHL team to not make the finals. They have the best all around player on their team in Vaseline Podcalzone and it is a travesty that Anchorage was able to knock them out of the playoffs. Podcalzone is a terrific player, but an even more influential leader on the ice. He is able to rally hi team around him and inspire them to be their best self. His on ice chemistry is above any I have ever seen before, he is a natural born leader as anyone who's had the pleasure of playing along side of him will confirm. It's a shame we did not get to see another round of Podcalzone hockey.

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6. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

What's your prediction for this season's IIHF tournament? Which teams do you expect to do well (or not well)? Which players?

I feel like one of the players to watch in the upcoming IIHF tournament is going to be Martijn Westbroek. He had an MVP caliber season leading the Chicago Syndicate in points this season. He has been on fire all year, even on a struggling Chicago team, and with a stronger supporting cast around him with Japan he should be able to elevate his game. He will likely be paired with Monkey D. Luffy and Daniel Smeb, which are two superstars in their own right. As the man in the middle , Westbroek, will have more offensive weapons to dominate the other teams. With his help, Japan could see another Gold medal around their necks. As a Team, I expect the Swiss to have even more success this tournament. With players like Finn-Rhys and Selman returning after another strong season of play, they have the firepower to go far. Their younger depth players have also continue to show significant improvement over the past few seasons, which will improve their bottom six.

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12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.

a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

c. Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

a. If Buffalo has any hopes of winning the Challenge cup, they will have to out cheat the Steelhawks. That being said, Buffalo has no hopes of winning as the legacy of the Hamilton cheat game is that of legend. Buffalo will have to settle for the runners up yet again unfortunately, and we will all have to live through another 2 months of staring at Hamilton banners.

c. Without a doubt Hamilton has the better branding and I'll break it down. Buffalo has the worst color scheme of any SHL team, they are a massive eye sore. Buffalo's logo is also dumb. As with any other team from Buffalo, their logo has nothing to do with their team name and is just a picture of a Buffalo. The Steelhawks get the edge in a more unique name and location. Nobody has ever wanted to visit Buffalo. Hamilton however is a great city in Canada.

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

@bdu754 is without a doubt the most wholesome and inherently good person I have met through this site.
@JNH Thank you for reinvigorating my interest in this community. I love you, you little scoundrel.

mee · 03-29-2021, 11:12 PM

ISFL Affliate +3 TPE
Task 2 +2 TPE
This is a pretty tough one. I think I'm going to take the right to commit fouls. Thinking about what happens on a powerplay. You try to set up, you get a guy in front of the net. And then boom, a player just takes out his skates and the goalie has that perfect line of vision again. A turnover happens and a 3 on 3 breaks out. And then one of the offensive players just skates right over one of the defenders. How do you defend that? Add in the fact that if the team with 6 ever takes a penalty their whole advantage goes out the window, I think it's a no-brainer for me.
(116 words)

Task 5 +2 TPE
There is no doubt to me that the Toronto North Stars belong in the SHL finals this season. Playing in the murderous Great Lakes they managed to not only make the playoffs but hang around the top of the division all season long. In the playoffs, after a scare with the Pride in the first round, they took on the Calgary Dragons and handled them with ease. But the North Stars would fall to the Hamilton Steelhawks in a game seven for the ages, that went to overtime.

Finishing 3rd in the league in points and 2nd in the East while playing a Great Lakes schedule is truly incredible. The North Stars belong in the final.
(116 words)

Task 8 +3 TPE

[Image: task_8.png]

Task 12

b) The age-old adage about defense winning championships will always hold true. I don't care how much you score, when it comes down to it, I'll take the team that doesn't give up goals over the team that scores them at a high rate every time. Now if you can have both? Well, that's great, but if it's only one, I'm all about the defense.

c) I really like the Hamilton branding. The blue and the grey contrast very nicely and the logo itself is very clean. The Stampede on the other hand use a roundel which I am almost never a fan of. The green and gold do go together nicely (see Baylor University) but overall I like the Hamilton look better.

d) It has to be Elizebeth Doyle in net, she has the pedigree, I don't care if Jobin is having a better series. At forward I want Aaron Wilson and Theo Morgan, both total beasts with a ton of experience on the ice. For my defender I want Samuel Michaud who is a great full ice player, he can defend and he can score.

Task 16 +3 TPE
I like @Dextaria. He is a very nice guy. He GMs the Whalers and was the captain there before and we get along very well. Dex is a good guy to work with in SJHN as well.

Wawazat · 03-29-2021, 11:25 PM

#15 Milestone claim

GOALIE
Wins -> 14 or more. (28)
Saves -> 596 or more. (1534)
Save % -> .907% or higher. (.910)
Goals Against Average -> 3.21 or less. (2.59)
Shutouts -> 4 or more (6)
Game Rating -> 64 or more. (70)

So I get to claim 3........this is bs.

canes2112 · 03-29-2021, 11:27 PM

Code:
1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

I think the most surprising part of the season was the surge of the Toronto North Stars and the fact that they were able to make the playoffs in a stacked Great Lakes division. This included performing better than the defending champs Chicago Syndicate in the regular season, forcing them unable to defend their title. They even finished above the Buffalo Stampede, another recent champion. Outside of the Texas Renegades, you could argue the four best teams come from this division, which is unfortunate for the one that cannot make the playoffs. Perhaps with the performance of each team in this division, we would have been surprised by any team that was not able to beat out the others to make the postseason. Second place for biggest surprise of the season would be the same Toronto North Stars needing 7 games to dismiss the San Francisco Pride. It is such a mismatch on paper that makes it quite shocking.

3 TPE

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2. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Oh no, the head honchos of the league are worried that there aren't enough story lines for the finals! Therefore they're changing the rules for the finals. The home team will get to choose to either a) play the whole game with 6 skaters on the ice at a time or b) be immune from penalties/offsides/icing. Whatever the home team chooses, the visitors get the other perk. Which one are you choosing, given the choice and why?

The choice is very clear to me and that would be option b. A lot of teams pull their goalie at the end of the game and fail to score so one additional player does not mean as much, especially considering the other team can basically ignore every other rule. This would definitely make for a more chaotic game but the ability to ignore penalties is huge. Ignoring icing is sneaky beneficial to the team down a player since they can have a free clearance with no consequences. I don't think these changes would benefit the league and just take away from the skills of the teams

2 TPE

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5. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Which SHL or SMJHL team was the best team to not make the finals this season and why?

The clear best team to not make the finals would be the Texas Renegades. After surging ahead of all the other teams in the regular season, they fell in the playoffs to the Hamilton Steelhawks. In the SHL, no other team was really close to being considered here, especially when it is the top team in the regular season, anything short of a finals trip seems like an unsuccessful result. They should be able to rebound next season unless the Western Conference's weakness hides some of Texas's flaws that were exposed in this playoffs. If that is the case, next season might just be similar to this one.

2 TPE

Code:
12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.

a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

b. Hamilton was 3rd in the league in GF this season. Buffalo was 2nd in GA. This begs the age old question: what will win out, a great defense or a great offense? Why?

c. Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

d. It's all come down to this: game seven overtime. Which four players are you sending out to win the game for you. This is in a fantasy sense, so feel free to mix and match from both teams.

a. I think Buffalo just needs to pay attention to game results and mess with tactics in between games to better prepare themselves if they lose. They also got a trade deadline acquisition so I think the gap is not as big as it seems. If Doyle can put up good numbers, they have a great chance.
b. I think a good defense paired with a good goalie should have the edge. If a good goalie is on, no one can score and this covers up the defense's mistakes. The flipside is it only takes one mistake to let in a game changing goal that destroys your chances of wining.
c. I prefer the Steelhawks branding. I think the logo is much cleaner and the color scheme is nice. I don't know much about Hamilton or Buffalo as a city so that's kind of a wash. Steelhawks are much cooler than a Stampede to me so it's a pretty clear choice. A rebrand from Buffalo could interest me.
d. The four skaters I would take are Monkey D. Luffy, Theo Morgan, Augustus Wang and Samuel Michaud. This lineup has two representatives from each team and would be a nightmare to deal with. I think this group would win almost every overtime they are in. Honorable mention to Aaron Wilson who would be my next pick.

4 TPE

Code:
15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SHL Milestones: https://simulationhockey.com/showthread.php?tid=114645

SMJHL Milestones (for send

downs): TBD

https://simulationhockey.com/showthread....pid3006585

2 TPE

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

Everyone on LAP deserves a huge shoutout. They have been extremely welcoming to me in my rookie season and nothing but supportive despite the team's struggles in the playoffs and at the end of the regular season. I can't wait for next season and know that we'll be back for more!

3 TPE

caltroit_red_flames · 03-30-2021, 12:07 AM

Milestones +3 TPE

BasedMinkus · 03-30-2021, 01:48 AM

Code:
1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

While the finals is a lot of the same old same old, there were some interesting things that happened this season. For me I would like to highlight the marked improvement of the Baltimore Platoon. Last season the Platoon were are easy beat finishing with an overall record of 13-48-5, the second worst record in the entire league. Their best player was defender Nat Emerson who finished with just 44 points in 66 games. This season however, the Platoon improved to 27-34-5 and a playoff record, while their best player, Krashwagen finished with 71 points. On top of this they got good help in net with Delvecchio finishing with a winning record (26-25) while also seeing some solid improvement from Lord Raiden. In the playoffs, the Platoon took on the Edmonton Blizzard. While the Blizzard proved too much for the Platoon, defeating them 4-1, the Platoon showed an improvement that should help them as they move forward this upcoming season.

(160)

Code:
3. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

Which players, if any, do you see as locks for the Hall of Fame? As in, if they're career ended today they're in. Anyone on the cusp? Anyone on the right track, but still needs to put up a few more great seasons?

Here is one player who is a lock for the Hall of Fame.

Hall of Fame Lock: Elizabeth Doyle - G

Doyle has been dominant in her career since being drafted by Buffalo back in season 51 and while she hasn't been in the league for too long, her resume speaks for itself. In just 4 short seasons as a starter, Doyle has won a Razov as playoff MVP, the Jesster award as rookie of the year and 2 McBrides as top goalie while being nominated once more and is on her way to her 4th nom in a row. Doyle has won 73% of her total games which is an ungodly total for anyone. She also has a challenge cup to her name. Even if Doyle were to retire after this playoff, Doyle is a lock for the hall of fame and is on track to becoming the greatest goalie in SHL history.

(153)

Code:
12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.

a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

b. Hamilton was 3rd in the league in GF this season. Buffalo was 2nd in GA. This begs the age old question: what will win out, a great defense or a great offense? Why?

c. Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

d. It's all come down to this: game seven overtime. Which four players are you sending out to win the game for you. This is in a fantasy sense, so feel free to mix and match from both teams.

A. Buffalo may have been 13 points below Hamilton in the standings but they have Elizabeth Doyle. Doyle is one of, if not the best goalies in the league and she can carry a team to a hard fought cup. If Buffalo does just enough to keep the game close, Doyle can close the game for the Stampede. (57)

B. A great Offense will beat a great defense most of the time at this juncture as offenses have became too powerful to stop over a 7 game series. However a great defense and a great goalie will trump that. If the defense plays the way they have all season they have a chance. If they play the same and Doyle elevates her game even more, then it will be an easier road for them. (74)

C. I am not a big fan of either the Steelhawks branding, nor am I a fan of the Stampede branding so it comes down to slight edges. I like the logo of the Stampede more as it is a little cleaner and more adventurous. I prefer the name of the Steelhawks as Stampede is a little too obvious in a city like Buffalo. Color scheme I give to the Hawks as the silver and blue is very striking. I give Buffalo the edge over Hamilton as a city because even though both are the ugly step children of their respective areas, Buffalo has a bit more prestige. With this being a tie, I look at the history of both teams and with Hawks being around for much longer, I give them the edge out of respect. (136)

D. 4 players to send out for game 7? Let's start with the easiest choice that I could make. You need a goalie and Doyle is the easy choice as she leads in Wins, Shutouts, GAA and Save Percentage in this series. On the back end I will take Samuel Michaud. Michaud has 14 points in 16 games while also adding 33 blocked shots and 32 hits. For my forwards, I will take Aaron Wilson who leads the playoffs in goals with 8 while also coming in with a +8, and Aron Hernadivic who leads all players in this series in points this playoff with 22. (105)

Code:
15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SHL Milestones: https://simulationhockey.com/showthread.php?tid=114645

SMJHL Milestones (for senddowns): TBD

https://simulationhockey.com/showthread....pid3008482

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

I wanna say a shoutout to @39alaska39 . A great guy to talk to about all things sports. Also got me back into my cardboard addiction to the point where my gf gives me weird looks but it makes me happy and I thank you for getting me back into that.

Total: 3 + 3 + 4 + 3 + 3 = 16

***trashae*** · 03-30-2021, 04:50 AM

Code:
2. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Oh no, the head honchos of the league are worried that there aren't enough story lines for the finals! Therefore they're changing the rules for the finals. The home team will get to choose to either a) play the whole game with 6 skaters on the ice at a time or b) be immune from penalties/offsides/icing. Whatever the home team chooses, the visitors get the other perk. Which one are you choosing, given the choice and why?

Oh come on give me a harder decision to make. As an avid fighter and known PIM hoarder I've gotta go with being immune from calls. Having an extra skater is meaningless if all we have to do to even the playing field is fight at the puck drop and then take turns every 5 minutes when their guy gets out. On top of that the amount of reckless play and general goon shit that is possible when immune from consequences is sure to piss off the other team as well and drive them to commit penalties. Just picture Nat Emerson elbowing opposing defensemen in the face a la Connor McDavid this past week. They won't retaliate at first, but at some point tensions are going to boil over and we can have a good 'ole donnybrook.

Code:
3. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

Which players, if any, do you see as locks for the Hall of Fame? As in, if they're career ended today they're in. Anyone on the cusp? Anyone on the right track, but still needs to put up a few more great seasons?

Nat Emerson may not have the hardware, but he has the career statistics already and honestly isn't even that deep into regression yet so he will continue to pile em on. Emerson currently sits top 5 all-time in blocked shots and for a hall of fame that has over 100 players in it already he's also deeeeep into the top 100 on every defensive stat. Right now the only thing that might hold him back is the "he was on a bad team so of course he produced defensively" argument, but that bad team isn't bad any more and with Emerson's switch to forward look for him to really start rounding out those offensive stats. He's already over 260 career points and smart money has his 20 points per season to date get left in the dust starting next season. Emerson is a cornerstone player of a franchise that has largely struggled during his tenure, but if it I had a vote I would put him in right now if he retired.

Code:
4. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

If you're sitting at home watching the Finals: What do you plan on doing differently next season to help your team reach the promised land? If you're playing in the Finals: Is there anything different you plan on doing next season to continue your team's success?

I'm not changing a thing from last season. Park led all rookie dmen in scoring with hardly any power play time and I'm also on a PT streak of 15 so as long as I keep that up I really don't see what there is to change in S59. BAP made an impressive push to get into the playoffs and that was in part because the young guys on the team, myself included, have all been max earners contributing to the team's overall rise. It's already working now so if it ain't broke don't fix it. The only thing BAP needs to keep improving and by extent get closer to the finals is to keep doing what we're doing. We are finally coming out of the rebuild just as other teams are being forced to see some star players leave as cap casualties. Hopefully the rest of the league sees what is happening down in Baltimore and is ready to see us become a force in short order.

Code:
5. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Which SHL or SMJHL team was the best team to not make the finals this season and why?

The Knights set the J point record (and were only 2 away from breaking DET's FHM pt% record) and didn't make the finals. That has to be the story here. The Knights were dominant all season and saw contributions from the entire roster in every facet of the game, but real life prevented them from making the finals. We had to seek outside help getting lines set for the series against QCC with both of our primary FHM people either busy or out of town. The series was always going to be a coin toss, but I firmly believe that if myself or Naosu had been available the series would have been more competitive.

Code:
15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SHL Milestones: https://simulationhockey.com/showthread.php?tid=114645

SMJHL Milestones (for senddowns): TBD

3 Milestone teps

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

@Katth I'm saying nice stuff about you again, but this time for a different reason. Your tutelage and the locker room you oversaw in KEL were both awesome and I appreciate the quality people you've brought to the team. I've been able to grow into this league and find some good people primarily because of you. Thank you and enjoy being able to chill the fuck out for 30 seconds until your family grows. Also gtfo, Naosu is sitting in the co seat still and I wanna take it for a spin.

Salming · 03-30-2021, 05:17 AM

1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

When it comes to SHL, one of the most surprising thing for me was that once again Hamilton and Buffalo are in the finals. I expected that we will see some new franchises this season to go far in the playoffs but once again old powerhouses were at their best when it all mattered most. Calgary Dragons was a disappointment for me in the playoffs. I hoped that theirs low number of goal against would have been shown also in the playoffs but that wasn't the case. I also thought defence wins championships so Texas could be a strong team but that wasn't the case neither. On the other end New Orleans took only ten wins which was a negative surprise for sure. Chicago was also a negative surprise after it was so good team last season. In the SMJHL I expected more from Nevada Battleborn for example but on the other hand Vancouver and Colorado played pretty well. In the SHL I liked also how Seattle improved.

168 words

2. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Oh no, the head honchos of the league are worried that there aren't enough story lines for the finals! Therefore they're changing the rules for the finals. The home team will get to choose to either a) play the whole game with 6 skaters on the ice at a time or b) be immune from penalties/offsides/icing. Whatever the home team chooses, the visitors get the other perk. Which one are you choosing, given the choice and why?

Home ice advantage really means something in this case. Of course as a home team you need to pick six skaters because like we all know, audience is usually the "sixth skater" which means in this case that there will be 17 000 home team players on ice against 20 players in visitors. Even though visitors can do on ice whatever they want, there is just too much traffic in front of the net of the home team so visitors can't score never even though they get all powerplay opportunities. So yeah, that rule would at least bring some entertainment to the hockey games and completely change the dynamics of the matches.

112 words

5. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Which SHL or SMJHL team was the best team to not make the finals this season and why?

In SMJHL I need to give some respect to Kelowna Knights. They won regular season but fell in short in the semifinals against Quebec City Citadelles. They won the opening match but lost next four in a row. They had best defence in the regular season but didn't showed in the playoffs enough were they were forced to play in game seven in quarter-finals already against Vancouver. But yeah, Kelowna's winning percentage was over 80% in regular season and goal difference was +118 so they had deserved to play in the finals based on regular season but playoffs are the only thing that matters and if you can't stand the heat there, you don't deserve to go finals.

118 words

6. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

What's your prediction for this season's IIHF tournament? Which teams do you expect to do well (or not well)? Which players?

Like always, I expect big nations to succeed. Canada, Sweden, Finland, Russia and USA are powerhouses which should dominate this event year after year because hockey culture is there something else than in for example in Japan, Great Britain, Ireland, Austria, Norway or Latvia. Czechs are a dark horse for me because mr. Michael Scarn can carry them to everything. I also expect that Germany's hockey will continue its rising. Last season they were second in round robin on group A after Canada and who knows if that continues. From Nordic countries I expect that Finland and Sweden will be much stronger this year. Both of them positioned on place five among seven teams in their respective groups on round robin stage. This season I know both countries will improve and last season's disappointments won't happen again. When it comes to Russia, I expect the same. They were second to last in theirs group last season but this season that needs to change. They are way too big hockey nation to underperform again.

173 words

15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

S58 SMJHL Milestones +3 TPE

16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

My fourth season in Quebec City comes to an end very soon. It has been an unbelievable ride. This site has been a very positive surprise for me and I didn't know it was possible to get to know some random people so well in a few months. I would like to thank GM-duo @Evok and @Faelax for their support and warmness in the locker room day after day. They are very helpful people with big hearts. I would also like to thank my teammates. It is a sad that we can't be teammates forever but I have really enjoyed to chat with you. You are all very professional virtual hockey athletes and that's why we have been able to have some success during past two seasons especially. The standards in the locker room have been high and that shows also on the ice in the rink. We have done things with a serious attitude but also without forgetting having fun at the same time. Vamos and a golden hand shake to all of you because we will win the final series: @Keven @enigmatic @ztevans @Bayley @AL GRINGO @LimJahey @iamslm22 @Hordle @storm @TheCC @Allegiant @zeagle1 @siddhus @Vandy @LB3737 @xTri @HabsFan6776 (names copied from @Matteo)

I would also like to thank once more all members of the last season's WJC gold medal team. That was an achievement that goes to history books and it was a pleasure to share gold medal ceremonies with you guys.

+16 TPE, thank you.

C9Van · 03-30-2021, 08:34 AM

I mean I am trying to make the Hall of Fame with Jon BUT I also feel very lost with what I am doing with him at the moment. The character needs a rework I feel. Anyway, the player that I will be talking about is none other than Tony Pepperoni of the Edmonton Blizzard. The dude is a monster stat wise. Like for Edmonton to have such a big history of dominance and then he basically dicks everyone in them and is still increasing the distance even today. It is very easy to pick him cause if he doesn't make the Hall of Fame, literally no-one will make it. The dude is just 1 of the best to ever player in this era of the league and 100% deserves to make it overall.

I wish Jon has the same success as him but what can you do when it is just him being 1 of the best centers ever. It is 100% deserved.

[164 words] + 3 = 3 TPE

Code:
6. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

What's your prediction for this season's IIHF tournament? Which teams do you expect to do well (or not well)? Which players?

Man I love when this one exists. IIHF doesn't get enough love. I think you can expect more of the same to be honest. Great Britain will be medalling like we have been for the vast majority of the decent history of it a long with Canada since we are the 2 strongest nations going in the IIHF. You can probably expect the US to choke if they are not forgetting to change the back up goalie in the quarters since they should be going a lot further than they do.

The biggest :eyes: emoji situation is who will be getting bronze since that is usually between Sweden, Germany, Czechia usually. Perhaps the Swiss or Japan surprise again and get here. That 1 is really up for grabs. I would like to see Canada get bronze with GB in the final against someone different cause that would be a fun and easier final but probably will not happen.

It will be interesting to see what happens with all of them but that is the rough teams that make it through the groups and lose to GB again.

[186 words] + 3 = 6 TPE

Code:
12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.

a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

b. Hamilton was 3rd in the league in GF this season. Buffalo was 2nd in GA. This begs the age old question: what will win out, a great defense or a great offense? Why?

c. Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

d. It's all come down to this: game seven overtime. Which four players are you sending out to win the game for you. This is in a fantasy sense, so feel free to mix and match from both teams.

A. I wanna do some banter and say more legitimate recent cups than Hamilton with the passing bollocks that made us switch engines but honestly I would say nicer people to talk to overall. I barely talk to anyone on these teams but I can easily say Buffalo wins is pleasantries when I do talk to them and that counts for something with me. Go positivity!

[65 words]

B. Whilst having a really good attack is always nice, the phrase is 'Defence wins championships' is said because it is true and even in this sim league it usually reigns correct. The sim engine does like to give a silly amount of points but I think the better performing D will be the unsung hero of this series

[58 words]

C. I really have torn on this one. I like both as they are 2 teams with great designs and colour schemes that just really work well overall. I still have no idea where Hamilton is mind so I guess Buffalo wins this 1 via default cause it works with the name and location overall for me. Neither is bad though.

[60 words]

D. I guess if I can mix and match I would take Monkey D Luffy, Aaron Wilson, Elizabeth Doyle in the net for me and then as for defenders I cannot name them off top of my head so gimme a second. Okay I went to Buffalos roster page and I am picking Aumi Jr and Augustus Wang since they are defenders. That will do.

[64 words] + 4 = 10 TPE

Code:
15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

SHL Milestones: https://simulationhockey.com/showthread.php?tid=114645

SMJHL Milestones (for senddowns): TBD

this seasons milestones + 3 = 13 TPE

Code:
16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

[/quote]

I guess I would give my appreciation to the Blizzard for everything they have done for me over the past year. I do not think I have done well enough for them but I cannot complain overall. Keygan and Tony are some of the best and nicest people going in SHL too and I wish them nothing for the best going forward and in life <3

[66 words, which should be enough for an MPT.] + 3 = 16 TPE

Done.

***Hordle*** · 03-30-2021, 08:42 AM

2. Immunity no question about it. It doesn’t matter if the other team has six players. You just beat the shit out of them. Trip them, cross check them. Fight them. They can’t do anything about it. If they fight back they get a penalty. If not they’re gonna be knocked down or too scared to skate up. Plus you can just cherry pick all day. Beat the crap out of the other team, get the puck. Fling it to your top goal scorer. Instant break away. So yeah, Penalty immunity > Skaters. I mean how often do teams pull the goalie (IRL) for it not to work. 6 skaters isn’t that big of a deal.

16. My J team is probably the best group of people that I’ve ever had the pleasure of interacting with. They’re fun to interact with. They make games great regardless if we win or lose. I’ve made a bunch of friends and gotten quite a few old ones on the team and I am excited to play with them for the coming seasons. My SHL team has also been fun and welcoming. Though I’m spending more time with my J team, since my player is down, I’ve enjoyed my interactions with everyone in Eddymanton.

CrazyMojito · 03-30-2021, 10:05 AM

Code:
1. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

While these two teams are no strangers to the Cup finals, we did see some very interesting things this season. Looking back, what do you feel was the most surprising part of the season?

A few different things stand out to me this season that I found to be somewhat a surprise. At the beginning of the regular season, I expected the Specters, Wolf Pack, and Syndicate to be in the playoffs. Turns out the Pride, North Stars, and Platoon had different ideas, and all made the playoffs at the formers expense. Baltimore making the playoffs is not that big of a surprise considering outside Manhattan, the Atlantic Division is weak, but I did not think it would be their season in 58. Toronto has been an up-and-coming team stuck in the toughest division in the league and it was about time they made it to the post season. I want to say it is a surprise but its more of a disappointment that a team with a .667 points percentage, good for 6th best in the league, misses the playoffs. Especially when a team with a .348 points percentage makes it. This leads me into the biggest surprise of the season, the San Francisco Pride. This team nearly doubled its points from S57 and by way of not being the most trash team in the league (NOLA), makes the playoffs. Not only did they make the playoffs though, but they also took the North Stars who had 26 more wins in the regular season to game 7. (225 words)

Code:
2. Written, 2 TPE (100 words min.)

Oh no, the head honchos of the league are worried that there aren't enough story lines for the finals! Therefore they're changing the rules for the finals. The home team will get to choose to either a) play the whole game with 6 skaters on the ice at a time or b) be immune from penalties/offsides/icing. Whatever the home team chooses, the visitors get the other perk. Which one are you choosing, given the choice and why?

Seems like home ice would have a definite advantage in this scenario. While having six players on the ice the whole game sounds like it would give a team an edge, in no way does a team does not pick being able to ignore the rules of hockey when presented with these two options. Forget the ability to just be straight up goons and trip, hook, slash, or run major interference on the goalie to the point where they are in the corner leaving a wide-open net. Any pressure by the visiting team and the home team can just send the puck 200 feet down the ice without worrying about a defensive zone faceoff. Not having to worry about offsides means easy zone entries. This is just an unfair advantage for the home team, and I would like to offer them an early congratulations on their cup victory. (148 words) EDIT - If the home team is immune to penalties couldn't they just send out 6 or more players too if they wanted to since they cant get called for too many men?

Code:
4. Written, 3 TPE (150 words min.)

If you're sitting at home watching the Finals: What do you plan on doing differently next season to help your team reach the promised land? If you're playing in the Finals: Is there anything different you plan on doing next season to continue your team's success?

Sitting at home I cannot help but feel like it should be us in the finals against Buffalo. We took Hamilton to game 7 in a game that was decided by one goal and a late major penalty against. The Blizzard had a strong regular season against Texas going 4-2 against them. But here we are, Hamilton vs Buffalo. To make sure that its us in finals next season, I just need to keep doing what I am doing. Earning as much TPE as I can and building my player stronger. I need to find ways to make my player stronger on the puck and generating more scoring chances, while upping my stamina. One of the wisest people I know once said “At the end of the day, if you always have the puck you don't need to be as good defensively”. I am buying into that philosophy and hoping that it pays off in season 59 so I can be a difference maker in a more positive way. (169 words)

Code:
12. Written, up to 4 TPE - Pick up to 4 Challenge Cup related topics to write about! Each topic is worth 1 TPE. Each answer must be 50+ words.

Code:
a. Hamilton finished 13 points above Buffalo in the standings this season. What is one thing that Buffalo can do to give themselves a leg up despite this?

I think Buffalo needs to not worry about this at all and keep doing what they have been doing. The season series between these two teams was very close and they match up well. Buffalo has arguably the best goalie in the league right now and I think that alone gives them a leg up. Jobin has played well but they are no Doyle. (65 words)

Code:
Hamilton was 3rd in the league in GF this season. Buffalo was 2nd in GA. This begs the age old question: what will win out, a great defense or a great offense? Why?

Being a Devils fan, I can tell you that defense wins championships. Buffalo is solid from the net out, and they can score too. Hamilton might have been 3rd in GF but Buffalo was right behind them in 4th. To me, this signals that Buffalo knows when to press and attack and when to get back and defend and have found the perfect balance. Hamilton wasn’t bad defensively either, 6th best in GA. I think that if Buffalo can shut down Hamilton’s top line though, its their cup to lose. (91 words)

Code:
Which of these two teams' brandings do you prefer? Take into account colors, logo, name, location, and anything else you consider relevant.

Branding question is tough this season. There are things I like about both teams and things I don’t. For one there is not a single draw tourism wise to visit Buffalo or Hamilton. Their logos are meh, I don’t care for round logos and I hate that the teams feel the need to spell out what their team is called, with Buffalo putting their city in there as well. I straight up don’t like Hamilton’s logo and I think Hawks are the lamest of birds. Hamilton does have the nicer third jersey though. To pick a team , I’ll go with Buffalo because I think the Stampede is a pretty solid name for their location. (115 words)

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It's all come down to this: game seven overtime. Which four players are you sending out to win the game for you. This is in a fantasy sense, so feel free to mix and match from both teams.

Game 7 overtime and I’m only sending out four players. Sounds like I shouldn’t be trusted with this decision. Looking over players from both teams I want players that have been hot offensively and shooting well along with being responsible to get back defensively. That leads me to picking Hernadivic and Roach up front with Wang and Hugh Jazz making up my D paring. (65 words)

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15. Milestones, up to 3 TPE

New this season, Milestones are folded in with CW. So just link your Milestone claim as task 16 for up to 3 TPE towards your 16 total.

S58 Milestones Claim - 1 TPE

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16. Written, 3 TPE

I loved this as a mPT when hotdog did it last season, so I'd like to bring it back as a permanent fixture. After all, we could all use a little positivity every now and then. Say something nice about another member or members, no word limit.

I’ve been a member on this site now for one year which is only 10% of its existence. Since I’ve joined I’ve seen a tremendous amount of improvement and growth in the league and that doesn’t happen unless the users make it so. This site would be nothing if it didn’t have some of the best and most dedicated people who all share a similar passion in hockey. Even the people who don’t watch or follow hockey invest so much of their time into the league for themselves of course but also for the enjoyment of others. It’s so easy to fall into a rut, especially when things are going well and when new management takes over you wonder how they can possibly do a better job then the last. Yet almost always the new management does.

I want to take this opportunity to appreciate everyone who I’ve had the pleasure of interacting with, and those that I haven’t. Next to my son being born, coming across a reddit post inviting me to check out the Simulation Hockey League was the best thing to happen to me in 2020.

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