CCHL Commissioner Draft Update!

 A bunch of important things as we inch towards the draft at this point.  We've also got four new blogs this morning as well so head to the site and check them out.  

1) The trade freeze for the CCHL draft is 23:59 EST on  June 23rd.  No more trades will be allowed prior to the draft (you can make gentlemen's agreements but nothing may be submitted until after the draft and we inform everyone we are good to process).  This is just a reminder as it's 12 days away!  

2) The draft pool has been set up alphabetically on the draft website onlinedraft.com.  Each of you will be getting an invite sent from the onlinedraft.com website.  I highly encourage you to sign into the site if you are a team who has used it for previous drafts OR register for the site as this is where we do our entry draft.  If you are new to the league, please check your SPAM for the invite as well from the site.  

While in there, please look over the list.  It's pretty comprehensive but I will add players on a case-by-case basis if needed but all of the CHL and NCAA free agent signings and European free agents are all there to date.  

3)  The draft pick grid will not be uploaded onto the site until after the trade freeze as it's a pain to update there as well when trades take place so it will only be uploaded once finalized.  

4) Also on the onlinedraft website you'll see our 2023 draft logo and what team got the honor of hosting the CCHL Entry Draft in 2023.  

5)  The deadlines for SK and DF rating changes has passed which means no further changes will take place in that regard.  

I think that's it for now!  Enjoy your Sunday and please make sure to check out the onlinedraft website so I don't have to keep spamming you with invites!  

Thanks,

Matt

Denver Ice Chips

 Ice Chips...

Unrestricted free agency saw the Denver Spurs bring in several players.
Interestingly, three of them were former Colorado Avalanche players. But maybe not. These are the Denver Spurs after all.
Coming on board were penalty killers P.J. Bellemare, Andrew Cogliano and Matt Nieto.
The Spurs basically signed a line and they are projected to start the season as a unit on the 4th line with Bellemare & Cogliano seeing time on the penalty kill.
Nieto will fill in on the PK at times also.
They also filled out their defense corps in signing Travis Hamonic.
He will most likely suit up as a 2nd pairing blueliner with Derek Forbort.

Bellemare was signed to a  $1.250 1 year contract with Cogliano agreeing to one year at  $1.5M.
Nieto received a 3yr  $3.3M contract with an AAV of  $1.1M per season.
Blueliner Travis Hamonic received a $10.5M contract over 3 seasons for an AAV of  $3.5M.

Rumors are circulating in the Mile High City that winger James van Riemsdyk may be bought out of the mistake of a free agent contract the Spurs signed him to during free agency last season.
He has been a major disappointment and GM Poelker has been thoroughly raked over the coals by ownership and the local media for that boneheaded contract.
A major blow for the Spurs is the loss of Captain Gabriel Landeskog for the entire season due to a knee injury requiring major surgery.
When and if he returns to the CCHL remains to be seen. In his absence it's possible that three Spurs will wear the 'A' this coming season. A fitting tribute to the Captain.
It appears Guentzel will replace Landeskog on the 1st line port side with line mates being center pivot Brock Nelson who was signed as an RFA the past offseason.
On the right wing will most likely be Victor Olofsson. Although, at times, T.J. Oshie could see time on the top line RW position. Gabe Vilardi is also a possibility.
Chemistry will determine.

Reported by...
I.P. Daley

Florida Eels' GM Jeff Shafer Makes Impactful Moves in First Free Agency

 In a bid to bolster their roster with a mix of veteran experience and promising younger players, Florida Eels' General Manager Jeff Shafer has made some shrewd signings during the team's first free agency period. With a focus on adding depth and addressing specific needs, Shafer has brought in a range of players who possess unique skill sets and the potential to make a significant impact on the team. Let's take a closer look at each acquisition and their scouting reports to understand why they are great fits for the Eels.

1. Hunter McKown (1 year, $1,100,000):

Hunter McKown, a 20-year-old undrafted player, has shown immense potential in his young career. Known for his impressive speed and strong offensive instincts, McKown has a knack for finding the back of the net. With his agility and excellent hockey sense, he has the potential to be a dynamic goal scorer for the Eels. This affordable one-year deal allows McKown to prove his worth and solidify his place within the team.

2. Denis Malgin (2 years, $750,000 per year):

Denis Malgin brings energy and tenacity to the Eels' lineup. As a spark plug player, he possesses excellent skating abilities and quick hands, making him a threat in the offensive zone. With his playmaking skills, he has the potential to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. Malgin's two-year contract provides the Eels with a consistent contributor who can elevate the team's offensive output.

3. Anders Bjork (1 year, $1,300,000):

Anders Bjork, previously regarded as a highly talented player, brings versatility and speed to the Eels' forward group. With his excellent two-way play and strong defensive awareness, Bjork can contribute in various situations. He possesses a potent shot and strong puck-handling skills, making him a valuable asset on both ends of the ice. Bjork's one-year deal gives him the opportunity to reignite his career and prove his abilities in a new environment.

4. Corey Perry (1 year, $1,950,000):

Corey Perry, a Cup champion with a wealth of experience, adds grit and a winning mentality to the Eels' roster. While his scoring production may have declined, Perry remains a formidable presence in front of the net and on the power play. His ability to agitate opponents and perform under pressure makes him a valuable asset during crucial moments in games. Perry's one-year contract provides leadership and playoff experience to the Eels' young core.

5. Jakub Voracek (1 year, $1,400,000):

Jakub Voracek, despite his injury history, is a skilled forward with excellent playmaking abilities. Known for his vision and passing skills, Voracek has consistently been among the league's top assist producers. His offensive creativity and ability to control the game's tempo make him a valuable addition to the Eels' roster. With a one-year contract, Voracek has the opportunity to prove his durability and contribute significantly to the team's success.

6. Jayson Megna (undisclosed terms):

A Florida native, Jayson Megna is set to become a fan favorite for the Eels. While the exact contract details are undisclosed, Megna brings versatility and a strong work ethic to the team. He excels in a bottom-six role, providing energy and solid defensive play. Megna's local ties and commitment to the team make him a valuable asset both on and off the ice

7. Radim Simek (1 year, $1,400,000):

Radim Simek, a seasoned defensive defenseman, brings stability and physicality to the Eels' blue line. Known for his strong defensive instincts and shot-blocking abilities, Simek is a reliable presence in his own end. With his solid positioning and ability to win battles along the boards, he adds a defensive anchor that will provide valuable support to the team's goaltenders. Simek's one-year contract allows him to showcase his defensive prowess and provide leadership to the Eels' younger defensemen.

8. Sheldon Dries (3 years, $800,000 per year):

Sheldon Dries, a bargain signing, has the potential to surprise many with his determined play and offensive contributions. With excellent speed and a strong work ethic, Dries excels in a two-way role. Known for his responsible defensive play, he is also capable of chipping in offensively and contributing timely goals. Dries' versatility and dedication to his defensive responsibilities make him a valuable asset on the penalty kill. The three-year deal allows Dries to develop and solidify his place within the Eels' lineup.

The addition of these signings and the 5 future first round picks in the 2023 draft will ensure the Eels are competing now and in the future.

Florida Eels Make Waves in CCHL Relocation with New President/General Manager Jeff Shafer's Strategic Trades

 Date: May 26, 2023

In a surprising turn of events, the Florida Eels of the CCHL have relocated from Portland and made some significant trades under the leadership of their new President/General Manager, Jeff Shafer. These trades have caught the attention of hockey enthusiasts across the nation, as Shafer strategically positions the team for the upcoming 2023 Draft.

The first notable trade orchestrated by Shafer involved the Eels acquiring promising prospects, Max Namestnikov, Remi Porier, and a 2023 second-round pick for future hall of famer Marc-Andre Fleury. This trade demonstrates Shafer's focus on bolstering the team's future with two highlighly targeted prospects by Shafer after displaying high end capabilities a two who can set a solid foundation for the future.

Continuing his strategic maneuvering, Shafer then pulled off a deal with (HFX). The Eels acquired the experienced forward Jordan Staal, Nick Perbix, a 2023 first-round pick, and a 2023 third-round pick in exchange for Jack Quinn and prospect Cole Spicer. This trade not only adds depth to the Eels' forward line but also provides them with crown jewel - Perbix who Shafer has seen many times before and additional valuable draft picks.

In a blockbuster trade, the Eels sent one of the most exciting young defensemen in the league, Cale Makar for defenseman, Jacob Morrissey, prospects, Georgii Merkulov, Isaac Howard, a 2023 first-round pick from the (NEC), and a 2023 first-round pick from the (LAS).  This trade showcases Shafer's commitment to building a through this 2023 draft.

Not stopping there, the Eels then engaged in trade talks with the (CGY), as Calgary acquires the talented forward M. Rantanen in exchange for the CGY first-round pick, CAP first-round pick, and NEC second-round pick. Shafer's vision becomes clearer with this trade, as he assembles a entire 1st round draft class fit for a king.

The final trade discussed is a testament to Shafer's desire to acquire both twin Krygier’s and highly skilled Paul Cotter. (CHP) sent P. Cotter, Cole Krygier, Christian Krygier, and a 2023 second-round pick to the Eels in exchange for C. Hart and the FLE seventh-round pick. This trade shows a desire to build a prospect pool of CCHL Legacy families. 

It is evident that Shafer is laser-focused on the 2023 Draft, strategically positioning the Florida Eels to capitalize on the talent available.

As the CCHL prepares for an exciting season ahead, all eyes will be on the Florida Eels, eagerly waiting to witness the impact of Shafer's strategic moves. With a compete now and draft for later mentality, the Eels have set themselves up for a hopeful future.   

UPDATE: more trades have been completed prior to this article being published. 

This was a TSN special report.