ESPN Search

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

During the lockout there was speculation that disciplined, defense-first teams and players competing in Europe would have an advantage when play resumed. That has not been the case so far.

Blog | Conversation | February 06, 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

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 Summer Games serving as a back drop, Craig Custance starts looking ahead to the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi Russia, projecting what a possible Canadian roster might look like given an influx of young talent.

Blog | Conversation | August 09, 2012

Despite a thin free-agent crop, several strong Cup contenders may undergo some drastic offseason changes. Craig Custance examines the potential upcoming moves for the Penguins, Wings, Canucks and Sharks.

Blog | Conversation | June 26, 2012

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

Blog | Conversation | June 12, 2012

Craig Custance breaks down some of the biggest names who could potentially reach the market as free agents in 2013, including Penguins Sidney Crosby and Jordan Staal. The Anaheim Ducks likewise may have some hard decisions to make.

Blog | Conversation | June 11, 2012

LOS ANGELES -- After the Los Angeles Kings beat the New Jersey Devils in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup finals, Los Angeles coach Darryl Sutter had a simple message for forward Simon Gagne. Be ready for the next game. Then he didn't talk to him ag...

Following the release of the NHL's three finalists for the Hart Trophy, Craig Custance provides his list of the three players who were snubbed most by not being included.

Blog | Conversation | April 27, 2012

On the brink of elimination, Stanley Cup favorites Pittsburgh and Vancouver need to address pressing problems or face a fast exit from the 2012 playoffs.

Blog | Conversation | April 16, 2012

In this week's edition of the Friday mailbag, Craig Custance answers questions on when Columbus will become competitive, the issues ailing the Capitals and the upcoming contract negotiations between the Penguins and Sidney Crosby.

Blog | Conversation | February 24, 2012

Craig Custance chatted with GMs, coaches, players and more during his time in Ottawa and offers up his 10 most noteworthy observations, primarily revolving around the looming trade deadline.

Blog | Conversation | January 30, 2012

Scott Burnside and Craig Custance today drop the gloves on inadequate suspensions and the rumors as the trade deadline approaches. Go! BURNSIDE: Good day, Mr. Custance. Always a pleasure to hang out with you as we did in Philadelphia. Not a pleasu...

After a slow start, star D-man Drew Doughty claims he's recently found his sweet spot on the ice. Also, with Darryl Sutter on his way to L.A., Doughty wonders if intense coaching scrutiny is what the Kings need right now.

Blog | Conversation | December 19, 2011

The Philadelphia Flyers have announced that top defenseman Chris Pronger is out for the season. After chatting with Paul Holmgren about the topic, Craig Custance presents four possible options the Flyers could pursue to fill the void.

Blog | Conversation | December 16, 2011