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Following a clinical defensive display by the Boston Bruins in Game 3, is it possible that their blue line could be even better next season and beyond? Craig Custance writes that Dougie Hamilton gives the Bruins plenty of promising options moving forward.

Blog | Conversation | June 18, 2013

Craig Custance examines the development of Boston Bruins center Patrice Bergeron, and notes a few prospects -- like Bergeron -- who could be second round steals in the upcoming NHL draft.

Blog | Conversation | June 17, 2013

Craig Custance examines the evolution of Chicago Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford and how he has developed into a Cup-caliber goalie.

Blog | Conversation | June 15, 2013

Kris Letang is entering the final season of his contract, and the Penguins will have to commit to big money to keep him. So what's the play? Craig Custance explores the situation.

Blog | Conversation | June 14, 2013

The Blackhawks claimed the marathon that was Game 1, but the Bruins' PK is a riddle Chicago needs to solve if the Hawks want to separate from an evenly matched foe.

Blog | Conversation | June 13, 2013

Craig Custance writes that Boston's Nathan Horton and Tuukka Rask are among the pending free agents who could cash in with new deals after the Stanley Cup because of their postseason performances.

Blog | Conversation | June 12, 2013

Craig Custance writes that, with the Washington Capitals unlikely to make major roster changes this offseason, the team's growth likely will be tied to coach Adam Oates' ability to get more out of his players.

Blog | Conversation | June 11, 2013

Craig Custance examines the St. Louis Blues' offseason blue-line challenge, writing that GM Doug Armstrong has his work cut out in upcoming contract negotiations with rising defensemen Alex Pietrangelo and Kevin Shattenkirk.

Blog | Conversation | June 10, 2013

In the spring of 2010, when Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane beat Philadelphia Flyers goalie Michael Leighton in Philadelphia, he launched his gloves into the air in celebration at just about the same moment the hockey world realized Kane had just won...

In advance of the Stanley Cup Final, Craig Custance looks at the keys to winning hockey's greatest prize.

Blog | Conversation | June 08, 2013

Craig Custance writes that, after the Pittsburgh Penguins' playoff exit, GM Ray Shero has some big decisions to make -- starting with what to do with star center Evgeni Malkin.

Blog | Conversation | June 08, 2013

After netting Ryan Suter and Zach Parise last summer, the Minnesota Wild face a new challenge in 2013 -- advancing their team as a Cup contender despite salary cap constraints. As free agency creeps closer, priority No. 1 will be goaltending.

Blog | Conversation | June 07, 2013

Craig Custance examines the L.A. Kings' home dominance during the playoffs, attributing the success to their ability to contest every inch of ice, play suffocating defense in the neutral zone and build early leads. Plus, they've got goalie Jonathan Quick.

Blog | Conversation | June 06, 2013

Craig Custance explains how wrinkles in the new CBA could make for an interesting offseason, including the potential buyouts of some high-profile players.

Blog | Conversation | June 04, 2013

Legend Mark Messier is in the running for the Rangers' head coaching job, but what exactly would he bring to the table? Craig Custance examines the Broadway coaching search, as well as how Coyotes coach Dave Tippett may fit into the picture.

Blog | Conversation | June 03, 2013

Craig Custance writes that 2013 NHL draft prospect Valeri Nichushkin is a wild card at the top of the draft and that he could end up being selected in the top three picks.

Blog | Conversation | June 01, 2013