REPORT CARDS - THE WEST

Adamo Rimoli

On the last day of school, students would spend it playing games, saying their goodbyes, waiting for that final bell to signify the beginning of summer break, but most importantly, waiting to open that sealed envelope with their report card in it.

That being said, the last day of school in the NHL has finally passed as the Colorado Avalanche raised the (dented) Stanley Cup, meaning it is report card season! Keeping in mind, these grades will be based on a scale relative to their expectations.

Anaheim Ducks: A

The Ducks surpassed expectations and were in the playoff hunt for quite some time. Found out how much of a star Trevor Zegras was and saw a breakout year from Troy Terry.

Arizona Coyotes: F

Our expectations were already low for you, but holy smokes.

Calgary Flames: B+

About time this talented core of players showed what they were really made of. Outstanding regular season but unfortunately, Jacob Markstrom forgot how to stop pucks in the playoffs.

Chicago Blackhawks: F

I could include the embarrassment they were off the ice this season in the grade, but I won’t. The on-ice product was woeful enough. And to think now you have to trade your one bright spot in Alex Debrincat.

Colorado Avalanche: A+

Moving on.

Dallas Stars: C+

The Washington Capitals of the west! Aging core (with a loaded prospect pool), gave their first round matchup a run for their money, but eventually fell victim to the ultimate purgatory; mediocrity.

Edmonton Oilers: A

I mean if it works, it works. McDavid had an MVP caliber season (so an average season for him), and Woodcroft proved to be a great story that turned their season around. A couple sneaky good young pieces in there for Edmonton as well.

Los Angeles Kings: A

Similar to Anaheim, but better. The Kings generated some buzz around the league and by the looks of it, they are only getting started. Great first competitive season for this new crop of players.

Minnesota Wild: B-

Kirill Kaprizov is an absolute superstar making the Wild an actual fun team to watch. They made a couple intriguing moves this year but fell short in the first round. Losing Fiala is a huge blow so interesting to see how they bounce back. Oh, and enjoy the cap recapture penalties!

Nashville Predators: B-

At least you guys made the playoffs! Roman Josi somehow carried your offence from the back but once Saros went down, it was toast for the Preds.

San Jose Sharks: C

This was another team who sort of wasted a season. It feels like the Sharks are trying to contend but lack the pieces or cap flexibility to seriously improve their roster.

Seattle Kraken: F

The first two games were cool! The last 80, there was not a single person outside of the state of Washington that tuned in to watch the Kraken play hockey. The most irrelevant expansion team perhaps ever. At least they got a decent draft pick out of it.

St. Louis Blues: A-

They surprised so many this season but looking back, it was silly that anyone seriously doubted them. They have the best depth in the league but just lack serious starpower. Gave the cup champs a scare as well. They could be a very dangerous team next season as well.

Vancouver Canucks: B-

Underwhelming? Yes. But the Canucks core is still fairly young and this season it felt like a throwaway year for the Canucks. With some forward-thinking hirings in the front office, the Canucks might be back in the playoffs before we know it.

Vegas Golden Knights: F

Absolutely nobody feels bad for these guys. The cut-throat style of treating their employees/players finally came back to bite them. Injuries happen, but not an excuse to miss the playoffs in such a weak division with that roster.

Winnipeg Jets: D

These guys were shocking. Connor Hellebuyck proved that he carries the defence by being a league average goaltender, which led to them missing the playoffs. But hey, there’s nothing better than beating Toronto, right?