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

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 2012-13 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

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

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

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

Craig Custance writes that the New York Rangers will likely look to pursue some high-end goal scorers this offseason, with Zach Parise of the New Jersey Devils leading the list of potential targets.

Blog | Conversation | June 05, 2012

Craig Custance writes that with Jonathan Quick dominating in goal for the Kings in the playoffs, the door has been opened for the team to trade away Jonathan Bernier this offseason. Here is a look at his most likely destinations.

Blog | Conversation | May 29, 2012

Craig Custance writes that the Chicago Blackhawks and other teams already eliminated from this season's playoffs could decide to re-evaluate their approach and personnel this offseason.

Blog | Conversation | April 24, 2012

Heading into the playoffs, Craig Custance gets the lowdown on the Los Angeles Kings from rival players, coaches and scouts.

Story | Conversation | April 09, 2012

Craig Custance takes a look at the wild Pacific Division playoff race, as the Sharks, Stars, Coyotes and Kings are all making runs at the division title.

Blog | Conversation | March 27, 2012

As the trade deadline dust settles, Craig Custance surveys the league to see which lingering questions will be answered in the month to come.

Blog | Conversation | February 29, 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