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Craig Custance talks to Pittsburgh's rivals to scout how to beat the Penguins in the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs.

Story | Conversation | April 28, 2013

Craig Custance writes that the unlikely playoff charge of the Columbus Blue Jackets has created a new challenger in the Hart Trophy race.

Blog | Conversation | April 22, 2013

Putting concussion concerns behind him, Sidney Crosby has exploded in the 2013 season to reclaim his status as the world's greatest player. Craig Custance explores what's fueling the resurgence.

Blog | Conversation | March 19, 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

Flyers star center Claude Giroux has started the 2013 season slowly as he has grown into his new role as team captain. Plus notes from around the NHL.

Blog | Conversation | February 05, 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

Should the CBA talks break down there's a chance every existing contract could be voided, making every player a free agent. What would that world look like? Who would be the top targets? How much would they earn? Craig Custance explores with an NHL exec.

Blog | Conversation | December 19, 2012

In a scenario oddly similar to the 2005 draft that produced Sidney Crosby, a lost season may result in a lottery drawing to determine which team could land generational talent Nathan MacKinnon.

Blog | Conversation | October 03, 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

The main implication of Sidney Crosby's contract is clear: He'll be a well-paid member of the Penguins for a very long time. But what does it mean for the 2012 free agents set to hit the market Sunday and those in the years to come?

Blog | Conversation | June 28, 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

Craig Custance explains what the mindset of the Washington Capitals has to be like heading into Game 6 against the New York Rangers, as they try to overcome another devastating loss in Game 5.

Blog | Conversation | May 09, 2012

With stars like Zach Parise and Ryan Suter headed for free agency, Craig Custance looks at the risks and rewards of the NHL's long-term contracts.

Blog | Conversation | April 30, 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

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

Heading into the playoffs, Craig Custance gets the lowdown on the Pittsburgh Penguins from rival players, coaches and scouts.

Story | Conversation | March 30, 2012