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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

Craig Custance says Nashville Predators goalie Pekka Rinne is getting little help from his offense, but the shortened season could alleviate some wear and tear on Rinne.

Blog | Conversation | February 26, 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

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 30, 2012

With the collective bargaining negotiations ongoing, a proposed change to the salary cap could end up hamstringing some teams financially, including the Sabres, Rangers and Wild.

Blog | Conversation | August 20, 2012

With Shea Weber either staying in Nashville or heading to Philadelphia, there is one more high-end defenseman off the market for 2013. Craig Custance examines the few trade and free-agent options that remain for Weber's other suitors.

Blog | Conversation | July 19, 2012

As Craig Custance writes, in today's NHL it's more important than ever to develop talent. This summer is an important one for five Red Wings prospects.

Blog | Conversation | July 16, 2012

Craig Custance writes the Minnesota Wild have gained two leaders in Zach Parise and Ryan Suter who can inspire their young players.

Blog | Conversation | July 04, 2012

Craig Custance examines the potential impact of Ryan Suter's departure on Predators captain Shea Weber.

Blog | Conversation | July 04, 2012

Last summer the NHL watched as the Florida Panthers spent wildly to reach the salary-cap floor. This season has lacked similar spending sprees, largely because teams seem convinced the floor will change with the new CBA.

Blog | Conversation | July 03, 2012

While the top prizes in the 2012 free-agent class remain unclaimed, there were some early winners on Day 1 of the NHL's free agency period. Craig Custance provides his evaluations of first flurry of signings.

Blog | Conversation | July 01, 2012

In recent years, we've seen top free agents take their time instead of joining the frenzy to sign with a team on July 1. If Tier 1 free agents Ryan Suter and Zach Parise delay their decisions, which players and teams does that help? Who does it hurt?

Blog | Conversation | June 27, 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 evaluates the top 50 free agents in the 2012 class.

Story | Conversation | June 18, 2012

With Nicklas Lidstrom set to retire from the NHL Thursday, ESPN Insider's Craig Custance explores the Red Wings' options to replace their No. 1 defenseman.

Blog | Conversation | May 30, 2012

By signing Mikael Granlund, the Minnesota Wild give their fans something to be excited about heading into next season. And as Craig Custance writes, it also marks the beginning of something larger for the franchise.

Blog | Conversation | May 24, 2012