Yes, we are finally approaching the start of the 2022-23 season, a time when all 32 teams have a chance to win the Stanley Cup. Here are some of the top headlines and notes prior to the NHL season:
The Pressure Juraj Slafkovsky will Face
There is no doubt in mind that Juraj Slafkovsky will face the pressure of being selected first-overall this season. The Slovakian forward will obviously be compared to other first-overall selections from the past few years. But how can the Habs, and Slafkovsky deal with the pressure?
For one, it looks as if the Habs will give Slafkovsky every opportunity to play this preseason. The more games the Habs allow their prospect to play, the more experience, and level of comfortness will arise. Expect Slafkovsky to suit up for the majority of the remaining preseason games.
Furthermore, Slafkovsky had a terrific 2021-22 season prior to the NHL Draft. Slafkovsky was fairly solid playing in the Liiga for TPS, and impressed playing at the WJC, U18's and World Championships.
Petry Fined for Roughing
The NHL has announced that they have fined, Penguins d-man, Jeff Petry, $5,000 for roughing. The incident occured yesterday during the Pens vs Red Wings preseason game, when Petry was given a minor penalty for roughing.
The Penguins acquired Petry through a trade with the Montreal Canadiens during the offseason. The Pens sent over Mike Matheson, in exchange for the veteran defender.
AJ Greer makes Roster Push
Greer is one of many players fighting for fourth-line minutes within the Boston Bruins organization. The Quebec native, made his presence known yesterday by notching two goals and throwing many hits.
Greer spent the 2021-22 season in the New Jersey Devils organization. Greer mainly played for the Utica Comets of the AHL, putting up 52 points in 53 games. The winger also suited up for nine games with the New Jersey Devils.
Boston acquired Greer through free agency, when they inked him to a one-year contract. The Bruins are still in search of fourth-line assets, Greer has certainly inserted himself as a potential candidate.
Grubauer Looks for Bounce Back Season
The Seattle netminder had a year to forget last season, after signing a massive six-year contract with the club during the offseason.
The 30-year-old netminder started the majority of games for the newly created Seattle Kraken. The German native suited up for 55 games, posting a horrendous 15-31-5 record. Grubauer's save percentage and goals-against-average were sky high, as he had a .88 save percentage and a 3.16 GAA.
The NHL vet has played in over 250 games, with the Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche and the Seattle Kraken.