Blockbuster Deadline Trade: Falcons Send Brayden Point to Crawdads

 In one of the biggest moves ahead of the 2026 CCHL trade deadline, the Fort Erie Falcons and the Chattahoochee Crawdads shook up the league with a multi-piece swap that instantly reshapes both clubs’ futures.

The Deal:
The Fort Erie Falcons have traded Brayden Point to the Chattahoochie Crawdads in exchange for:

• Jack McBain

• Konsta Helenius

• Bradley Nadeau

• Michael Brandsegg-Nygard

• Crawdads 1st round pick (2027)

🏒 What the Crawdads Get

For the Crawdads, this trade is all about impact now. Brayden Point, the proven goal-scorer and offensive catalyst, gives Chattahoochie a legitimate star to lean on down the stretch.

Brayden Point has been one of the CCHL’s most dynamic forwards — a clutch scorer with excellent playmaking instincts and a nose for the net. His speed and experience make him a nightmare on the power play and a guy you can build a lineup around. Landing Point is a statement by the Crawdads that they’re all-in for a deep playoff run this season.

What the Falcons Receive

Fort Erie clearly signaled a shift toward retooling for sustained success with this deal. By acquiring multiple promising players and a first-round draft pick, they’ve injected potential into their prospect pipeline.

Here’s a closer look at the players they bring in:

Jack McBain — Veteran Presence

McBain is the lone “established” piece in the haul. A strong two-way center with leadership qualities, he’s expected to stabilize the Falcons’ lineup right away. McBain can handle tough minutes, win faceoffs, and contribute offensively — a perfect bridge between the Falcons’ present and future.

Konsta Helenius — High-Ceiling Prospect

Helenius is one of the more intriguing prospects in this deal. Known for his size, hockey IQ, and ability to control the pace at both ends of the ice, he projects as a top-six forward down the road. If he continues to develop his scoring touch, Helenius could be a cornerstone piece for Fort Erie’s rebuild.

Bradley Nadeau — Playmaker with Upside

Nadeau brings creativity and vision to the Falcons’ roster. A slick puck handler who sees the ice exceptionally well, he has the potential to become a consistent point producer. If Fort Erie can unlock his offensive instincts, Nadeau could flourish on the power play and in transition.

Michael Brandsegg-Nygard — Emerging Talent

Brandsegg-Nygard is a young forward with promising offensive instincts and physical maturity beyond his years. He’s the type of player who can keep plays alive and chip in timely goals. Add in his work ethic, and he could develop into a reliable scoring option for the Falcons.

1st Round Pick (2027) — Future Asset

To cap it off, Fort Erie also gets the Crawdads’ first-round selection in 2027. That pick could be used to draft a top-tier junior prospect or flipped in a future trade to bring back more established talent.

Why This Matters

This trade clearly delineates each team’s strategy:

• Crawdads: Win now. Adding Brayden Point gives them an elite scorer to push for a title.

• Falcons: Reload for the long haul. Fort Erie gets depth, youth, and a valuable draft asset.

For Falcons fans, the focus now shifts to development and patience. While losing a player of Point’s caliber stings, the collective upside of the incoming pieces gives Fort Erie a legitimate foundation to build toward a competitive future.

Chippawa Mid Season Blog

 "Well, after this deadline we will mostly have our team set for next season with some possible tinkering around the edges. The rebuild this season was very effective and we are very happy with our results. We have mostly done what we set out to accomplish and built a team that will be competitive on most nights, is cost controlled, and age appropriate with players in their prime and under control for terms long enough to try and complete the next phase of our rebuild. Now, we need to gather enough quality assets to acquire true top line talent. This will invariably be the toughest part of the rebuild. To be patient and not remove from the current roster while in this phase is something we expect will be tremendously difficult. After our current UFA players fall off (we are resigning Trouba with his fantastic season so far) and will only need to move a few challenging contracts in Kerfoot, Talbot, Demko, and a few players that just don’t fit the rebuild (Sharangovich, Bjorkstrand.) After this our salary situation will be under $85M to allow for the space required to add the calibre of players we now will need to be a true contender. Make no mistake, this is exactly where we wanted to be when we decided to tear it down and move our older and higher calibre players beginning last off season. In a twist of fate we even reacquired a player we were very hesitant to move (McCann) due to seasonal circumstances with the player. It happens. So, all in all, we are very happy, and the only thing we think could have made this any better, would be for us to have accomplished getting one of those top 5 positions to be filled this season but, we knew very well going into this rebuild that would be a very tough thing to accomplish. Good luck to all GMs the rest of the way, as we now shift our focus to contending for a playoff spot. 

Iceland’s Trade Deadline Maneuvering

 Hello again sports fans. Well, this year’s trade deadline has come and gone and we had a number of trades on deadline day but we had a flurry of trades even the week leading to it. In order to remain competitive, Iceland made a number of moves. There weren’t any earth shattering deals but a number of tactical moves to improve certain areas of the team. Let’s take a look at the deadline deals.

 

The first trade saw Iceland acquire gritty, defensive forward Mike McCarron from Georgetown for prospect Christian Humphreys. On the surface this seems like a minor deal but after acquiring McCarron, they put him on their penalty kill and it seems to have paid dividends. The last 3 games has seen the Iceland PK kill off 90% of their penalty kills. That’s a great start for McCarron, even if he is not contributing on the scoreboard.

 

The next deal saw Iceland connect with conference competitor, Denver, sending veteran Reilly Smith in exchange for Matt Nieto and prospect Hayden Paupanekis. It seems that Reilly lost his roster spot with the McCarron acquisition. Reilly has a chance to help Denver while Iceland recoups a prospect.

 

The next trade saw Iceland hook up again with Georgetown for their second trade of the week, with Iceland sending prospect Carter Sotheran and depth winger Jimmy Vesey for Warren Foegele. Warren gives Iceland some additional forward depth and brings checking, speed, scoring and defense. He may play an important role down the stretch.

 

And finally, so as to not be left with just a brace, Iceland and Georgetown connect again for the hat trick trade on deadline day. Iceland sends veteran goalie Ville Husso and prospect Sawyer Minio for Jake Allen. It seems that Iceland wanted some experience in their backup goalie, heading into the last quarter of the season and the playoffs. Jake will give starter Connor Hellebuyck some extra days off down the stretch, keeping him fresh for the playoffs.

Icecats on the Olympic Stage

 Hello sports fans! With the Winter Olympics upon us, the Iceland Icecats will be well‑represented when the men’s hockey tournament begins this February, sending an impressive fourteen players across six national teams. For a franchise that prides itself on development, identity, and big‑moment swagger, this year’s Olympic roster announcements felt like a victory lap.

 

 

Team USA leads the way with a pair of cornerstone Icecats. Jake Sanderson, already one of the smoothest two‑way defenders in the sport, slots into a top‑four role where his transition game should shine on Olympic ice. Behind him, Connor Hellebuyck arrives as the presumptive starter—calm, technical, and capable of stealing entire tournaments when he locks in.

 

Canada’s roster features two of the most electrifying talents in the world, both wearing Icecats colors during the pro season. Connor McDavid needs no introduction; his presence alone tilts the ice. Nick Suzuki, meanwhile, brings the kind of cerebral, two‑way reliability that coaches lean on when the stakes rise.

 

Finland, always a threat in international play, brings a quartet of Icecats with distinct roles. Sebastian Aho remains the heartbeat of their attack, while Mikael Granlund provides veteran poise and playmaking. Erik Haula adds versatility and edge, and Miro Heiskanen—arguably the most complete defender in the tournament—anchors the blue line with his trademark calm.

 

Sweden counters with a devastating defensive duo. Rasmus Dahlin and Victor Hedman form a pairing that looks almost unfair on paper: one a dynamic creator, the other a towering stabilizer. Expect them to log heavy minutes in every situation.

 

Latvia’s rising star Dans Locmelis earns his first Olympic nod, a testament to his growth and the Icecats’ knack for polishing young talent.

 

Rounding out the group, Slovakia brings three Icecats of its own. Martin Pospisil brings grit and chaos, Martin Fehervary supplies shutdown defense, and Dalibor Dvorsky offers the kind of youthful scoring punch that can swing a game.

 

For the Icecats, February won’t just be about watching the Olympics—it’ll be about watching their fingerprints all over the tournament.

CGY: Playoff and Cup winning odds from the standings after the trade deadline using AI.

 Below is a full 22-team playoff probability projection, covering both conferences, with clear percentages and a transparent explanation of how the numbers were derived.

This is a hockey-logic model, not guesswork or fandom bias.

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 HOW THE ANALYSIS WAS BUILT

 Playoff Qualification Odds

Based on:

• Points (P) and Points % (PCT)

• Games remaining vs teams below the cut line

• Goal Differential as a “true strength” indicator

Top teams are near-locks; bubble teams reflect realistic risk.

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 Round-by-Round Win Odds

Each round factors:

• Seed & home-ice advantage

• Goal Differential gap (biggest driver)

• ROW/RW (playoff-style wins)

• Home vs road splits

• Recent form (Last 10) as a minor adjustment

Each round becomes progressively harder → odds drop naturally.

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 Cup Odds

Not additive.

A team must survive four consecutive series, usually against stronger opponents.

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 CORFIELD CONFERENCE (11 Teams)

Team	Make PO	Win R1	Win R2	Win R3	Win Cup
Fort Erie Falcons	100%	85%	70%	55%	28%
Amos Comets	99%	65%	40%	22%	9%
Capeside Loons	98%	60%	35%	18%	7%
Calgary Chinook	96%	55%	30%	15%	6%
Fergus Flapping Kilts	85%	45%	18%	8%	3%
Halifax Norsemen	80%	40%	15%	6%	2%
Seattle Reign	55%	20%	6%	2%	<1%
Niagara Falls Thunder	45%	18%	5%	2%	<1%
Chippawa Crackerjacks	20%	8%	2%	<1%	<1%
Senneterre Beavers	10%	4%	<1%	<1%	<1%
Springfield Isotopes	1%	<1%	<1%	<1%	<1%

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 CORFIELD KEY INSIGHTS

• Fort Erie is the league’s strongest team by every metric: PCT, GD, home ice.

• Amos & Capeside are legit threats but lack Fort Erie’s margin dominance.

• Calgary has talent but weaker momentum and matchup risk.

• 7–8 seeds likely need miracles.

• Bottom three are effectively eliminated.

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 CANOSA CONFERENCE (11 Teams)

Team	Make PO	Win R1	Win R2	Win R3	Win Cup
Denver Spurs	99%	65%	45%	28%	12%
Iceland Icecats	98%	70%	50%	35%	16%
New Mexico Scorpions	95%	55%	30%	18%	7%
Las Vegas Aces	90%	45%	22%	10%	4%
Parry Sound Orrsmen	75%	35%	15%	6%	2%
Wisborg Donuts	70%	32%	12%	5%	2%
Victoria Ronin	65%	28%	10%	4%	1%
Georgetown Millers	50%	20%	6%	2%	<1%
Chattahoochee Crawdads	30%	12%	3%	<1%	<1%
Willowdale Rush	5%	2%	<1%	<1%	<1%
Val-d’Or Nuggets	1%	<1%	<1%	<1%	<1%

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 CANOSA KEY INSIGHTS

• Iceland has the best defensive profile and goal differential → top Cup odds.

• Denver is very steady but less dominant.

• New Mexico is strong at home but vulnerable late.

• Mid-tier teams can win one round, rarely more.

• Bottom three are longshots bordering on eliminated.

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 OVERALL CUP FAVORITES 

1. Fort Erie Falcons – 28%

2. Iceland Icecats – 16%

3. Denver Spurs – 12%

4. Amos Comets – 9%

5. Capeside Loons / New Mexico – ~7%

Miller's Musings

 Wrapping up the trades, signings and other transactions…

(1/11/26) GEO signs V. Arvidsson to a 2yr., $4M contract

After moving out Necas and Larkin and losing Cooley and Schwartz to minor injuries, the Millers

welcomed back the veteran winger for his second tour with the team. He’s likely to see bottom 6

time the rest of this season but could grab hold of a middle 6 and power play spot next year

based on his NHL season so far.

(1/12/26) ICE trades J. Vesey & Carter Sotheran-p to GEO for W. Foegele

Foegele started on fire after his acquisition, but had cooled off considerably and has been

atrocious at even strength. Vesey was promptly waived. Sotheran is a former Flyers pick who

has put up good numbers as an offensive blue liner in juniors. He has a heart condition which

scared the Flyers off of signing him and is currently playing his overage year in the WHL. He

could be a sleeper prospect once signed as a UFA by an NHL club.

(1/13/26) VIC trades P. Dubois to GEO for Haoxi Wang-p & Charlie Cerrato-p

This move may seem confusing as the Millers dealt a couple of good prospects for the young

vet in Pierre-Luc Dubois. However he’s still just 27 and is coming off his best season. He can

play all 3 forward positions. Injuries this NHL season are a concern and his next contract will be

an expensive one, but Georgetown management felt he could be worth the risk. Expect them to

sign the pending RFA to a 3 year deal in the off-season. He’s a lock for the top 6 the rest of this

season and depending on health could be in the same spot next year.

(1/14/26) ICE trades V. Husso & Sawyer Minio-p to GEO for J. Allen

Allen had disappointed as Dostal’s backup this season, and Phillipe Grubauer’s re-birth this

NHL season sees him poised to grab the backup role or possibly even a time-share next year,

so Allen was moved for defensive prospect Minio. Minio is in his first AHL season and profiles

as a 3rd pairing puck mover who can contribute to the penalty kill. Husso will assume the 3rd

goalie spot with Grubauer the new number 2 for the remainder of this season.

(1/15/26) GEO waives E. Gustafsson (waiver date 1/18/26)

Gustaffson played 1 game as a depth D and the acquisitions of Ryan Shea, Henri Jokiharju and

Henry Thrun moved him even farther down the depth chart, The Millers decided to cut him lose

now rather than wait for the pending UFA’s contract to expire.

(1/15/26) GEO waives I. Mikhayev (waiver date 1/18/26)

Mikhayev was signed to a 1 year contract as a UFA this off-season and was expected to

contribute on the PK and put in some respectable goal totals. He only scored 3 goals and his

PK work was spotty. The influx of more offensively gifted forwards and the desire to give more

playing time to Rasmussen plus the acquisition of Luostarinen pushed him down the depth chart

and like Gustafsson the club decided to cut bait now to look at the newer acquisitions.

(1/15/26) GEO signs M. Carcone to a 2 yr $775k contract

Carcone is a good skating winger who is strong on the forecheck and can put up some offense.

He’s unlikely to see ice-time this season unless injuries strike but with some UFA wingers

expected to depart in the off-season, and some of the rookies not likely to be ready for full-time

duty, he stands a very good chance of securing a bottom 6 spot next season.

Beavis and Butthead with Happy Gilmore converse about the CCHL's top 15 scorers

 Earlier this week, CCHL superfans Beavis and Butthead got together with golf/hockey legend Happy Gilmore to review the top 15 scorers in the CCHL.  

Here's what they had to say!  

1. Nico Hischier – 89 points

Butt-Head: Uh huh huh… this guy scores a lot.
Beavis: Yeah! He scores more than we score with chicks!
Happy: YOU DON’T SCORE WITH CHICKS.
Beavis: I score spiritually.
Happy: 89 points? That’s like winning every tournament and still being calm about it. I hate calm people.

2. Cale Makar – 88 points (Defenseman)

Beavis: Wait… defense?
Butt-Head: Yeah but he scores anyway. That’s illegal.
Happy: Defensemen aren’t supposed to do that. That’s like my caddy winning the tournament.
Beavis: Heh heh… caddy.

3. Jack Eichel – 83 points

Butt-Head: This guy looks like he talks trash and backs it up.
Beavis: Yeah, he probably steals girlfriends.
Happy: If this guy stole my girl I’d punch him with my skate on.
Butt-Head: Do it. Do it now.

4. Sam Reinhart – 81 points

Beavis: Dude scores AND hits.
Butt-Head: Heh heh… violence.
Happy: Finally. A scorer who understands anger. I respect that.

5. Mikko Rantanen – 77 points

Butt-Head: Big guy.
Beavis: Like… really big.
Happy: That guy could stand in front of the net and just exist and score.
Beavis: I score by existing.
Happy: No you don’t.

6. Leon Draisaitl – 74 points

Beavis: He’s always open.
Butt-Head: Like a vending machine after practice.
Happy: This guy waits for mistakes and punishes people. I like that. That’s my whole personality.

7. Aleksander Barkov – 73 points

Butt-Head: This guy does everything.
Beavis: Yeah, boring.
Happy: No. That’s scary. Guys like this beat you without talking trash.
Butt-Head: That’s messed up.

8. Kyle Connor – 73 points

Beavis: Connor scores.
Butt-Head: Heh heh… Connor.
Happy: Kid just shows up, scores, leaves. Like a hitman.
Beavis: Goal assassin! Heh heh.

9. Auston Matthews – 73 points

Butt-Head: Only 73?
Beavis: Heh… washed?
Happy: You idiots. That guy scores even when he’s having a “bad year.”
Butt-Head: His mustache still scares me.

10. Adrian Kempe – 72 points

Beavis: Sneaky scorer.
Butt-Head: Like sneaking beer into class.
Happy: I like sneaky. Sneaky wins championships.
Beavis: Sneaky scores with chicks.

11. Jake Sanderson – 72 points (Defenseman)

Beavis: ANOTHER defenseman?!
Butt-Head: This league is broken.
Happy: If my defenseman scored this much, I’d stop yelling at him.
(pause)
Actually no I wouldn’t.

12. Seth Jarvis – 71 points

Butt-Head: This guy just keeps scoring.
Beavis: Like… annoying scoring.
Happy: That’s the worst kind. You don’t notice him until you’re losing.

13. Anthony Cirelli – 70 points

Beavis: Low penalty minutes.
Butt-Head: That’s lame.
Happy: Discipline wins games.
Beavis: Shut up, Happy.

14. Connor McDavid – 70 points

Butt-Head: Only 70?!
Beavis: Heh heh… loser.
Happy: LISTEN. If that guy wanted to score 100, he would. He’s just bored.
Butt-Head: Oh.
Beavis: Still scores more than us.

15. Matt Boldy – 70 points

Beavis: Plus-27!
Butt-Head: That’s hot.
Happy: That’s a guy who helps you win and makes everyone else look bad.
Beavis: I make people look bad.
Happy: Yeah. Yourself.

Butt-Head: So these guys score goals…
Beavis: …and chicks…
Happy: YOU DON’T SCORE WITH CHICKS.
Beavis: I score in my mind.

Happy (standing up):
You know what? Hockey’s easy. Just score goals, hit people, and don’t be an idiot.

Beavis & Butt-Head:
Uh… heh heh… too hard.

Al Bundy reviews the CCHL standings

 Earlier this week, the man, Ed O'Neill - Al Bundy himself- stopped by the CCHL headquarters and went through the standings as only Al Bundy can.  

Below is what Al thought of the standings!  

CORFIELD — As Told by Al Bundy, Victim of Life

1. Fort Erie Falcons

45 wins. +103 goal diff.
Al: “This team is Peggy with my credit card.”
They take everything, leave nothing, and somehow look smug doing it. Every night they win again and I ask myself, “Why do I even bother coming home?”

---

2. Capeside Loons

Solid, respectable.
“This is Marcie.”
Always loud about how “good” they are, always pointing at the numbers, and still never the real alpha in the room.

---

3. Amos Comets

Hot lately.
“This is Jefferson when he actually pays his half of the bar tab.”
Rare, suspicious, and you’re waiting for the scam to show itself.

---

4. Calgary Chinook

Good team, L4 skid.
“This is Bud talking big before getting stuffed in a locker.”
All that confidence, then reality shows up and takes your lunch money.

---

5. Fergus Flapping Kilts

Decent, forgettable.
“This is Kelly trying to sound smart.”
Looks fine, gets attention, but when you dig deeper there’s absolutely nothing going on upstairs.

---

6. Halifax Norsemen

+1 goal diff.
“This is my marriage.”
No joy, no disaster — just an endless grind where nobody wins.

---

7. Seattle Reign

Negative goal diff, still alive.
“This is me at work on a Saturday.”
Still standing, still suffering, wondering how it all went so wrong.

---

8. Niagara Falls Thunder

Perfectly average.
“This is Buck chasing his tail.”
A lot of motion, zero progress, somehow still entertaining.

---

9. Chippawa Crackerjacks

One point out.
“This is NO MA’AM planning a protest.”
Lots of yelling, lots of passion, and absolutely no chance it changes anything.

---

10. Senneterre Beavers

-34 goal diff.
“This is the fat lady in the shoe store.”
Takes forever, leaves destruction behind, and ruins everyone’s day.

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11. Springfield Isotopes

-62.
Al rubs temples.
“This is me believing Peggy when she says ‘I won’t spend much.’”
Pure pain. Every night.

---

CANOSA — Pain, But Spread Out

1. Denver Spurs

First place, but boring.
“This is Marcie’s fitness routine.”
Technically impressive, emotionally exhausting, and I don’t care.

---

2. Iceland Icecats

+44 goal diff.
“This is Peggy when she actually cleans the house.”
Terrifying, unexpected, and makes me deeply uncomfortable.

---

3. New Mexico Scorpions

W5 streak.
“This is Jefferson when he smells free food.”
Suddenly motivated, suddenly dangerous.

---

4. Las Vegas Aces

Inconsistent.
“This is Kelly’s dating history.”
Flashy, exciting, and you know it’s going to end badly.

---

5. Wisborg Donuts

Great at home, awful on the road.
“This is me.”
King of my couch, completely useless anywhere else.

---

6. Victoria Ronin

Sliding.
“This is Bud’s self-esteem.”
Started with hope. Didn’t last.

---

7. Parry Sound Orrsmen

Barely alive.
“This is NO MA’AM after the beer runs out.”
Still standing, but you can see the end coming.

---

8. Georgetown Millers

Fading fast.
“This is my paycheck after Peggy sees it.”
Gone before I even get to enjoy it.

---

9. Chattahoochee Crawdads

-53 but W3.
“This is Kelly passing a test.”
Shocking, suspicious, and probably a mistake.

---

10. Willowdale Rush

-56.
“This is the shoe store on Black Friday.”
Chaos, screaming, and nobody leaves happy.

---

11. Val-d’Or Nuggets

-83.
Buck whimpers. Al pats him.
“Even Buck knows this season should be put down humanely.”

---

Al Bundy’s Final Wisdom

• Fort Erie is ruining everyone’s life like Peggy with access to Amazon.

• Corfield has a tyrant.

• Canosa has a mess.

• And somewhere… Al Bundy still scored four touchdowns in one game.

Miller's Musings: The Larkin Trade

 During the Millers morning skate on January 6, things seemed relatively normal. The Matt Roy

trade had been consummated the night before, but as Roy had been on the trade block for the

past week it was no real shock to the squad. Recent signing Thomas Novak was skating with

the other other reserves, with no expectation of appearing in a game just yet. Coach

Brind’Amour had posted the lineup for the night’s game against Parry Sound and the forward

lines were similar to what Georgetown had been putting out there recently.

As the players arrived at the rink in Woburn, Massachusetts to prepare for the game, nothing

had changed. The players dressed and went out for warmups. As is Millers tradition, the 13th

forward, the 7th Defenseman and the 3rd Goalie also skated, just in case a late injury or sudden

personal matter may lead to a lineup change. Novak, fellow newcomer Henri Jokiharju and

Phillipp Grubauer went through their normal routines.

The team went back in the locker room for final prep, and upon exiting their was a notable

change, as Novak was now on the bench. Long-time captain Dylan Larkin was nowhere to be

seen. Then the news came down. The unthinkable had happened. Larkin, the longest-serving

player in the history of the franchise, had been traded to Capeside for fellow C Logan Cooley.

The club issued this press release from the General Manager:

“It was a difficult decision to trade Dylan, but as a team we have underperformed all year and

were in danger of missing the playoffs”, said GM Kash. “We felt it best to find Dylan a club that

was a real threat for the Kehler Cup and one that would value him the way we have. And to be

honest, from a club perspective, any deal involving Dylan had to include an excellent return.

Capeside had been softly inquiring for a while and we were firm that we would not move him,

but when they offered Cooley we had to set aside emotional attachments and think about what

was best for this club. Logan Cooley is a 21 year-old who’s already established himself as a #1

Center. Having him lead our forwards for the next decade was too good an opportunity to pass

up. When we we took the offer to Dylan to consider he agreed it was best for his present and

the club’s future to make this move. We wish him nothing but the best, and Dylan Larkin will

always have a future spot in this organization, be it as a returning player, coach or in the front

office, whatever he prefers to do.”

Miller's Musings

 A lot of trades and a signing to look back on…

(1/4/26) HFX trades Emmitt Finnie-p, Matthew Wood-p, Brent Solomon-p & GEO

1st-26 to GEO for M. Necas…

This was the first sign that the Millers were not satisfied trying to hold onto the last

playoff spot and were looking towards the future. Necas had been suspended for 3

games for abuse of ref, during which Georgetown went 1-1-1.

The main return was Georgetown reclaiming their 2026 1st rounder, which looks to be in

the top 8 at worst, and could possibly be a lottery pick.

Brent Solomon is currently lighting up the USHL and will matriculate to Wisconsin next

season to begin his NCAA career. It’s early but there could be a middle 6 winger there.

Emmitt Finnie came out of nowhere to claim a spot on the Red Wings top line as a 20

year-old. After a hot start the offense has evaporated but he’s still getting top 9 minutes

and time on both special teams units. He’s a great skater and hard forechecker with a

non-stop motor. His ceiling is middle 6 winger and special teams contributor who will be

a fan favorite. Could be a Millers contributor as soon as next year.

Matthew Wood is the most famous of the prospects acquired and has made his NHL

debut this season. The former 1st round pick has a lethal shot and could put up 30 goal

season for years to come. However his skating is below average, and despite standing

6’4” he’s not a true power forward. At worst he’ll be a power play specialist and bottom 6

wing, but improvements in skating and a bit more bite could put him in the top 6. He’s

only 20 so time is on his side.

(1/5/26) CAP trades H. Thrun, Henry Brzustewicz-p, Cole McKinney-p & Charlie

Cerrato-p to GEO for M. Roy & $7m…

A night after moving Necas, middle-pairing D Matt Roy, inked in the offseason to the

largest UFA contract in Millers history, was moved to Capeside.

Henry Thrun came straight from college to to the NHL, seeing only a smidge of AHL

time his first 3 seasons. Toiling on poor teams in Anaheim and San Jose his stats were

not good. Coming out of school he was lauded for his skating, puck movement and

defensive zone coverage. Despite being 6’2, 211 he is not overly physical, relying more

on positioning. He’s been in the AHL most of this season and is likely a depth option

moving forward.

Henry Brzustewicz was a late NHL 1st rounder, a Defenseman currently playing for

London in the OHL (a teammate of current Miller G prospect Alexei Medvedev). An all-

round defenseman, “Brzy” can skate, move the puck and defend at a high level, There

was some hope his offense might grow this season but it’s similar to last year’s output,

so he’s unlikely to be a power play option. He should be a solid 2nd pairing Dman and

penalty killer in the pros.

Cole McKinney is a Center currently playing for the University of Michigan. A very good

skater and puck handler, his skill set isn’t quite that of a top 6 Center, but he has enough

ability to play on the wing in a support role if needed, but should be a solid 3rd line

Center and penalty killer.

Charlie Cerrato is also in the NCAA, playing for Penn State. A late bloomer, he does

have the skill to play on a scoring line, albeit as a winger, and as a complimentary piece

more so than a play driver. He also has a great motor and defensive awareness, and

could anchor a 3rd line.

(1/6/26) CAP trades L. Cooley & NIA 3rd-26 to GEO for D. Larkin…

Perhaps the most shocking deal in Georgetown’s history, as the long-time captain was

sent to the Northeast to chase the Kehler Cup.

Although just 21, Logan Cooley has already established himself as a legitimate top line

Center, and the Millers foresee him in that role for the next decade. Cooley is the total

package except for his size, but he plays big when it’s needed., not shying away from

the physical engagement. The Millers could run out Cooley (21), 24 year-old Dylan

Cozens, 22 year-old Ryan Greene and 21 year-old Marco Kasper as their Centers next

season, with Berkley Catton, Cerrato, and McKinney in the pipeline.

(1/7/26) ICE trades Christian Humphreys-p to GEO for M. McCarron…

McCarron was acquired to improve the bottom 6 and PK, but had not really succeeded

in either endeavor and the pending UFA was dispatched to Iceland for Humphreys, who

returned to the OHL after not getting enough minutes at NCAA Michigan. Humphreys

has a great shot already. He needs to increase his pace and show some improvements

defensively to have a pro future, but he’s a decent lottery ticket.

(1/9/26) GEO claims E. Luostarinen…

Eetu Luostarinen was plucked off waivers with the hopes of improving the bottom 6 and

penalty kill. The 27 year-old Finn can play all 3 forward lines, skates well, hits, is strong

defensively and has shown some offensive chops at times. He’s a lock for a 3rd line role

next season and some improvement in his offense could even see him play higher up

as a winger, being the physical and defensive conscience to support the scorers. It’s an

extremely low-risk move with a potential big reward.

Miller's Musings

  Lots of transactions to finish out the year…

(12/31/25) CHP trades H. Jokiharju to GEO for E. Robinson

Millers needed some additional depth in D with LaCombe injured, so they hooked up with constant trade partner Chippewa to land the 26 year-old Finn. To this stage in his career Jokiharju’s production has not nearly met what his toolkit projected and at this point he’s a bottom-pair type or extra defenseman. He is mobile, disciplined and can make a decent first pass. Signed for another couple of years he’ll move in and out of the lineup as needed. 

Robinson was a free-agent flyer from last year who could not hold onto a 4th line role in 15 games this season. 

(12/31/25) GEO trades T.Moore to AMO for Mikhail Abramov-p

A simple salary dump, as Moore could not replicate his success of last season and had fallen down, if not completely off, the team’s forward depth chart as the season progressed. Abramov went back to the KHL last season and is unlikely to resurface in North America. 

(12/31/25) GEO signs T. Novak to a 2 yr, $3.5M contract

Signed as potential depth scoring for next season, Novak is generally good for 30 to 40 points a year, although he brings nothing to the table defensively. Depending on the direction the team goes in 25-26 Novak could be a regular in the bottom 6. 

(12/31/25) GEO waives M. Joseph

Joseph hadn’t played since being tossed out of a game in the early part of the season. His lack of offense wasn’t enough to overcome his physical assets on this goal starved team, and with no role in the offing for next year, the Millers decided to go ahead and eat the last 1.5 years of his contract. 

State of the Loons; Time for the Big Boys to play

 The World Junior Championship didn’t unfold the way Capeside Loons fans—or Team USA—had hoped. Entering the tournament with momentum and expectation, the American squad, bolstered by several Loons prospects, stumbled on the international stage. The flashes of talent were undeniable, but consistency proved elusive, and the result was a disappointing finish that left players, coaches, and supporters wanting more.

For the Capeside Loons prospects, the tournament served as a harsh reminder of how thin the margins are at the highest levels of junior hockey. The pace was relentless, the pressure unforgiving, and mistakes were costly. While the experience will undoubtedly aid their development, there’s no sugarcoating it: this was a letdown for a program that prides itself on competitiveness and composure.

Yet hockey has a way of turning the page quickly—and optimism is already building around the next international challenge.

All Eyes on the Olympic Stage

If the World Juniors were a setback, the upcoming Olympics represent a reset—and a massive opportunity. Team USA will arrive with a veteran-heavy roster, and Capeside will be at the heart of it.

The Loons are sending an imposing contingent to the Games:

Jake Oettinger, Brady Tkachuk, Jack Eichel, Matt Boldy, Zach Werenski, Charlie McAvoy, Noah Hanifin, and Brock Faber—a core that blends elite skill, leadership, and big-game experience.

Between the pipes, Oettinger gives Team USA a calm, battle-tested backbone. In front of him, a blue line featuring Werenski, McAvoy, Hanifin, and Faber offers everything a championship team needs: mobility, physicality, and the ability to move the puck under pressure. Up front, Eichel’s dynamic presence, Boldy’s creativity, and Tkachuk’s emotional edge and net-front dominance form a forward group built for Olympic hockey.

Experience Over Potential

The contrast between the World Juniors and the Olympics couldn’t be clearer. Where the junior tournament tested raw potential, the Olympic stage rewards experience, composure, and leadership—areas where this Capeside-heavy group excels. These are players who have logged NHL minutes, endured playoff battles, and learned how to respond after disappointment.

For Team USA, and for the Capeside Loons, the message is simple: the setback at the World Juniors will not define the program. Instead, it becomes fuel.

State of the Loons; Loonies at the World Juniors

 Red, White, and Neon Green: Capeside Loons Prospects Shine on the World Junior Stage

When the puck drops at the World Junior Tournament, it’s more than just a showcase of the world’s best young talent—it’s a proving ground. For the Capeside Loons, it’s also a statement of identity. Built exclusively around American-born players, the Loons have a clear philosophy: develop, trust, and elevate homegrown talent. This winter, that vision is on full display as six Loons prospects carry the Stars and Stripes onto hockey’s biggest junior stage.

From dynamic scorers to steady defenders, the Loons’ World Junior contingent reflects a balanced, modern pipeline—one that blends skill, speed, and competitive edge.

⸻

James Hagens – The Catalyst

Every great lineup needs a spark, and James Hagens brings exactly that. A pace-setter with elite instincts, Hagens thrives in transition and has a knack for making plays at full speed. His ability to create offense without sacrificing responsibility makes him the kind of player coaches trust in key moments. For Capeside fans, Hagens represents the future engine of the Loons’ attack.

⸻

Teddy Stiga – The Tone Setter

No prospect better embodies playoff-style hockey than Teddy Stiga. Relentless on the forecheck and fearless in traffic, Stiga makes life miserable for opponents while doing the little things that win games. At the World Juniors, his energy is infectious—every shift sends a message. In the Loons’ system, Stiga projects as the heartbeat of a hard-to-play-against lineup.

⸻

Cole McKinney – The Two-Way Anchor

Cole McKinney brings structure and composure to the ice. A dependable presence who can handle tough matchups, McKinney excels at reading the game and making smart decisions under pressure. Whether it’s shutting down a top line or supporting the rush, he plays a mature, pro-style game. For Capeside, McKinney looks like a future matchup centerpiece.

⸻

Cole Eiserman – The Game Breaker

Few prospects at the tournament can change a game in an instant like Cole Eiserman. With a lethal release and a scorer’s mentality, Eiserman demands attention every time he crosses the blue line. Defenses sag, goalies cheat, and suddenly space opens up for everyone else. The Loons see Eiserman as a future marquee name—someone who can tilt the ice and fill the net when it matters most.

⸻

Asher Barnett – The Modern Defender

Asher Barnett represents the next generation of defensemen. Mobile, poised, and confident with the puck, he moves play north efficiently while holding his own defensively. Barnett’s calm under pressure stands out on the international stage, and his ability to log minutes in multiple situations fits perfectly with Capeside’s up-tempo identity.

⸻

Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen – The Backbone

Every contender needs stability on the blue line, and Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen provides just that. Physical without being reckless, disciplined without being passive, he brings balance to any pairing. At the World Juniors, his reliability allows his teammates to play freely, knowing there’s a safety valve behind them. For the Loons, he projects as a cornerstone defender who thrives in high-stakes hockey.

⸻

A Pipeline with Purpose

What makes this group stand out isn’t just talent—it’s cohesion. The Capeside Loons’ commitment to American-born players isn’t a limitation; it’s an identity. Watching these prospects compete together on the world stage reinforces that belief. They skate with pride, play with edge, and represent a franchise that knows exactly who it is.

As the World Junior Tournament unfolds, Capeside fans aren’t just watching future NHLers—they’re watching the foundation of the Loons’ next era take shape. And if this tournament is any indication, the future at Capeside Pond is fast, fearless, and unmistakably American.