The Hockey Edit

Just a girl trying to learn more about hockey everyday

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Hi, my name is Hannah and I’m so happy you’re here!

  • 2025 NHL Draft: Top 3 Prospects to Watch

    The 2025 NHL Drafts are just around the corner, with round one happening on June 27th. This year’s event brings a unique twist — for the first time, teams will operate remotely, eliminating the usual in-person conversations and behind-the-scenes strategy sessions. While this new format has sparked mixed reviews, it’s safe to say one thing: all eyes are on the top 3 prospects.

    Matthew Schaefer

    (Erie Otters, OHL)

    A Left Defenseman (6’2”, 183 lbs)

    Schaefer is ranked No. 1 amongst most scouts and reports. While Schaefer isn’t a physically imposing blue-liner, his size helps him be agile on the ice. He plays a strong two-way play and aids his team offensively as well. Schaefer has the ability to be a franchise defenseman. 

    If Schaefer is drafted first, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him spend some time in college hockey before transitioning to the NHL. This would allow him more time to play and practice with guys bigger and older than him. Drafting a defenseman first overall isn’t overly common. In fact, the last time a defenseman was drafted first overall was Owen Powers by the Sabres in 2021. 

    Michael Misa

    (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)

    A Center/Left Wing Forward (6’1″, 183  lbs)

    Misa is most likely going No. 2 this upcoming draft, and for good reason. He lead the OHL with 58 goals and 124 points in just 60 games – striking production for a player his age. A team will draft Misa for his offensive production and impressive puck handling. See Misa’s stats here!

    Misa also brings immediate value to whichever team drafts him. He has the potential to step into an NHL lineup right away and contribute. If he continues to develop his defensive game, he could evolve into a legitimate Selke Trophy candidate in the future.

    James Hagens

    (Boston College, NCAA)

    A true Center Forward (5’11″, 185  lbs)

    Hagens is currently projected to go No 3 in this draft. With strong skating skills and ability to see plays unfold, he has the ability to be a top line center. After a successful freshman year at Boston College, he’s proven he can perform against high-level competition. See Hagen’s stats here.

    A native of Long Island, Hagens may be especially appealing to the New York Islanders who hold the No. 1 overall pick. 

    Draft Order & Closing Thoughts

    The current draft order sees the New York Islanders picking first, followed by the San Jose Sharks and the Chicago Blackhawks. Each team has a clear opportunity to reshape their roster for the future.

    Personally, if I was the San Jose Sharks I would look to trade up to the first pick to secure Michael Schaefer. A franchise defenseman partnered with Macklin Celebrini, could position them to be a true threat in the years to come. 

    Regardless of how the order plays out, the 2025 NHL Draft has some high-end talent — and the first three picks could define the league’s future for the next decade.

  • Keith vs. Matthew Tkachuk and the Evolution of the Power Forward

    Making his 3rd consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance, Matthew Tkachuk has undoubtedly made a name for himself as an elite power forward. But Matthew isn’t the only Tkachuk to make a name for himself in the NHL – and we’re not just talking about his all-star brother Brady. 

    Keith Tkachuk, father of Matthew and Brady, started the Tkachuk name legacy as a player and a coach. From hits to 50-goal seasons, Keith helped define an entire era of physical, dominant hockey.

    Let’s take a look at the role of a forward has evolved from father to son — not just in stats, but in playing style, leadership, and the evolution of the power forward role from the 1990s to the 2020s.

    Keith Tkachuk: The Classic Power Forward

    Keith Tkachuk is a prime example of a classic power forward, in his 18 seasons in the NHL, Tkachuk has had an impressive career. Drafted 19th by the Winnipeg Jets in 1990, Keith played during the peak of the “heavy” game era. 

    • Career stats: 1,201 GP, 538 G, 1,065 PTS, 2,219 PIM
    • Peak season: 1996–97 – 52 goals (led the NHL), 228 PIM
    • Captained the Coyotes and earned five All-Star selections

    Keith was a blueprint for a traditional power forward – someone who could score 40+ goals a season and drop the gloves over and over.

    Matthew Tkachuk: The Modern Evolution

    Matthew Tkachuk, drafted 6 overall by the Calgary Flames in 2016, has no doubt carried on the Tkachuk legacy name. Playing 6 seasons with the Flames, he was traded to the Florida Panthers in 2022. During his 9 NHL Seasons, Matthew Tkachuk has made 3 post season appearances – winning the Stanley cup in the 2023-24 season. 

    • Career stats (through 2025): 642 GP, 240 G, 636 PTS, 690 PIM
    • Breakout year: 2022–23 – 40 G, 109 PTS, 123 PIM
    • Playoff performance: Key driver in Florida’s 2023–24 Stanley Cup win

    Tkachuk has made a name for himself with his elite hockey IQ, offensive creativity, and agitating opponents. He thrives in a speed-and-skill era where drawing penalties and puck possession matter more. Although he still throws big hits and plays a very physical game, Tkachuk is an excellent playmaker racking up high assist totals, especially in the playoffs.

    Then vs. Now: Key Differences in Their Eras

    Pace of play: Keith Tkachuk played in a slower, grinding era of the league, whereas Matthew Tkachuk has adapted to the current faster paced era of the league.

    Physicality: Fighting was a bigger part of Keith’s game; Matthew relies on agitating other teams more than drops gloves.

    Role on team: Keith was a pure scorer and enforcer hybrid, yet Matthew is a top-line play maker.

    Media: Keith kept a low profile off the ice. Matthew plays a bigger role in branding and fan engagement now that the NHL has leaned more into personality players. Matthew’s appearance in the 4 Nations landed him media opportunities like appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

    Stats Snapshot: Production Comparison

    Intangibles and Leadership

    Both Tkachuks have worn letters — Keith as captain in Phoenix, and Matthew as alternate captain in both Calgary and Florida.

    • Keith led with toughness, production, and old-school presence.
    • Matthew leads with passion, creativity, and an ability to emotionally elevate his team, especially in high-stakes playoff moments.

    Two Eras, One Legacy

    Despite playing in radically different eras of hockey, both Keith and Matthew define what it means to be tough, skilled, and impactful. Keith paved the way for players like Matthew, who now dominate the game in a smarter, faster way. The Tkachuk name remains synonymous with playoff passion, leadership, and chaos — just redefined for a new generation.

  • Adam Foote Named the Next Vancouver Canucks Head Coach: A Logical Fit or Risky Move?

    The Vancouver Canucks made a headline-grabbing move: announcing Adam Foote as their new head coach. But before we can be expectant of the future, let’s take a look back at Foote’s NHL career. 

    Foote’s NHL Legacy

    Before stepping behind the bench, Adam Foote carved out an impressive 19-year NHL career. Drafted No. 22 in the 1989 Draft by the Nordiques, Foote played a key piece in their franchise transition to Colorado. Foote’s name can also be found on the Stanley Cup for his two wins with the Avalanche (1996, 2001): earning him a reputation of having grit, leadership, and physical presence. Foote’s career highlights also include being the captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets (2003-2006), and later serving as an alternate captain back in Colorado. Foote’s #52 was retired in 2003 by the Avalanche in honor of his impressive career. 

    Canucks Connection: Proven Fit with the Current Core

    Foote’s candidacy for head coach was strengthened by his experience and results with the Canucks. Foote was brought on as the assistant coach in 2023 under Rick Tocchet where his fingertips were all over the Canucks’ defensemen and penalty kills (which finished 3rd in the 24-25 season sitting at 82%). 

    His results of overhauling the defensive core speak for them self, but it’s also important to consider his rapport with the current core. Captain Quinn Hughes has publicly expressed respect and trust for Foote’s leadership and coaching. His long-standing relationship with Tocchet will foster a seamless culture shift by creating continuity throughout the Canucks coaching staff rather than a full reset. 

    A First-Time NHL Head Coach—With Big Shoes to Fill

    Despite the positives, the announcement of Foote’s promotion as the next head coach was met with hesitancy amongst Canucks’ fans. Foote will enter the 25-26 season as a first time head coach, taking over a team with heightened expectations and playoff dreams. 

    With the Canucks struggling to generate consistent offense, Foote will be under pressure to surround himself with strong offensive-minded assistants to fill his gap. 

    The Bottom Line?

    While not a flashy hire, Adam Foote’s promotion shows management’s faith in the current staff and system to get the Canucks’ in playoff contention. Personally, I’m hopeful Foote’s leadership and care of the defensive core will translate to the team as a whole. Surrounded by an offensive coaching team, Canucks fan’s can have a cautious optimism for this next season.