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Big is better in the minds of many NHL GMs watching these playoffs. But where can they find size this offseason when free agency and the draft are highlighted by smaller skill players?

Blog | Conversation | May 16, 2013

Hovering on the fringe of the Eastern Conference playoff chase is not where the Rangers expected to be this season. Now they'll face some tough trade deadline decisions. Plus, this week's dip into the mailbag.

Blog | Conversation | March 22, 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

We know about the superstars like Sidney Crosby, but seasons often swing on the pivotal players who take on new roles or carry big expectations. Craig Custance offers up 10 such players who could define their teams' fortunes in the shortened 2013 season.

Blog | Conversation | January 18, 2013

Craig Custance breaks down the key themes in the Pacific Division ahead of the 2013 season. Among the most notable storylines: Jaromir Jagr leads an impressive corps of veterans in the division. How will they hold up in the short-season sprint?

Blog | Conversation | January 14, 2013

With a tentative agreement in place between the NHL and NHLPA, Craig Custance explores the new CBA and last night's cap compromise to gauge the impact on teams and players.

Blog | Conversation | January 06, 2013

With the NHL including an option for teams to buyout contracts to comply with a proposed drop in the salary cap, Craig Custance examines some likely candidates in the Western Conference.

Blog | Conversation | December 31, 2012

Craig Custance explains how some NHL clubs may feel a salary cap pinch under a new CBA and why some teams may want to seek an amnesty provision similar to that currently used in the NBA.

Blog | Conversation | November 08, 2012

While there is new hope in the NHL CBA negotiations, Craig Custance looks at some of the unintended consequences of a potential lost season, including some big free agents in front offices and the future of NHL icons Jarome Iginla, Teemu Selanne and more.

Blog | Conversation | November 05, 2012

No one "wins" in a lockout, but there are some teams and players that are hit harder than others ... and there are a few that might benefit from some extra time off. Craig Custance surveys who might be affected more or less if the NHL shuts its doors.

Blog | Conversation | September 11, 2012

With the 2012-13 season creeping closer, Hockey Prospectus and Craig Custance examine the rosters of every NHL team to see who is on the rise, who is declining and who could shine for the first time in the season ahead.

Story | Conversation | August 13, 2012

Recent years have not been kind to Stanley Cup champions, but as Craig Custance writes, Los Angeles GM Dean Lombardi is working hard to avoid the pitfalls.

Blog | Conversation | July 09, 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 examines the NHL's biggest questions heading into draft weekend, starting with the likely destinations for Rick Nash.

Blog | Conversation | June 21, 2012

Craig Custance provides his list of five early favorites to win the 2013 Stanley Cup.

Blog | Conversation | June 12, 2012

With his team on the cusp of a Stanley Cup, former Flyers goalie and current Kings assistant GM Ron Hextall is ready to run his own team. And he has the backing of prominent voices in both L.A. and Philly.

Blog | Conversation | June 06, 2012