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Craig Custance explores five teams facing tough buy-or-sell decisions as the trade deadline approaches, topped by a Blue Jackets team that suddenly appears to be a playoff contender.

Blog | Conversation | April 01, 2013

The Islanders have been stockpiling top draft picks and feature one of the league's brightest young players in John Tavares, so why does the franchise continue to languish outside of the playoff picture? Craig Custance explores the issues for the Isles.

Blog | Conversation | February 28, 2013

With an early projection of the top 10 picks in June's entry draft, Craig Custance explores the possibility of some of the top prospects in the 2013 draft class being claimed by traditionally powerful teams experiencing down years at the right time.

Blog | Conversation | February 18, 2013

In a scenario oddly similar to the 2005 draft that produced Sidney Crosby, a lost season may result in a lottery drawing to determine which team could land generational talent Nathan MacKinnon.

Blog | Conversation | October 03, 2012

ESPN Insiders Grant Sonier and Craig Custance review each team's picks and trades to see who came out on top following the 2012 NHL entry draft in Pittsburgh.

Story | Conversation | June 23, 2012

Craig Custance makes his awards picks for the 2011-12 season.

Blog | Conversation | April 10, 2012

Craig Custance assesses which individuals were the biggest winners and losers of the 2012 NHL trade deadline. Jeff Carter leads the list of those who should be pleased with how things worked out.

Blog | Conversation | February 28, 2012

Craig Custance writes that the Columbus Blue Jackets may be facing some hard decisions, particularly in the net, after their slow start to the season. Plus, news about the sale of the St. Louis Blues and other NHL notes.

Blog | Conversation | October 13, 2011

The New York Islanders' young core may be ready to take the next step behind former No. 1 overall pick John Tavares, but they'll need to resolve a murky situation in net.

Story | Conversation | September 26, 2011