Yardbarker

Natalie Vaitas

Contributor

Natalie Vaitas is a sports writer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She received her Sport Management degree from Aquinas College in 2021, where she was a member of the women's hockey team. She has experience covering the NHL and her hometown Detroit Red Wings; she also enjoys attending Michigan football games with her family. 

EXPERTISE:

NHL, College Football

November 15, 2024  |  Pittsburgh Penguins

Analyzing the Pittsburgh Penguins' early-season struggles

After a 3-2 overtime loss to the Detroit Red Wings Wednesday night, the Pittsburgh Penguins have dropped to 6-9-3 on the season. The loss has seen them fall to 26th in the NHL standings and puts them at 3-5-2 in their last 10 games.

November 13, 2024  |  Winnipeg Jets

Can Winnipeg Jets maintain their historic start?

With things clicking on all cylinders, the question remains: can Winnipeg keep it up?

November 7, 2024  |  NHL

Five biggest breakout players of the NHL season so far

With the NHL just about a month into the season, many players are well on their way to a career year. Let's take a look at which players are having the biggest breakout seasons so far.

November 1, 2024  |  NHL

Four most disappointing NHL teams so far

The NHL is already littered with surprises and disappointments, and Thanksgiving is fast approaching. Here are the four most disappointing teams to start the season.

October 25, 2024  |  St. Louis Blues

Could Blues' offer-sheet gambles change NHL landscape?

If Broberg and Holloway continue to find success in St. Louis, the Blues' shrewd maneuvering of the RFA system will likely have its copycats.

October 23, 2024  |  Nashville Predators

Predators' first win doesn't mask tumultuous start

After an 0-5 start, they finally secured their first win of the season Tuesday night, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of questions surrounding them.

October 16, 2024  |  Edmonton Oilers

Examining the numbers behind Oilers' slow start

After nearly winning a Stanley Cup last season, expectations are high in Edmonton, and anything less than a major turnaround will have fans wondering if this core can truly accomplish its ultimate goal. 

October 11, 2024  |  NHL

Five players who will make the biggest impact with their new NHL team

With the NHL season underway, several teams are hoping new players will help lead them to the playoffs. Here are five players with new teams who should make the biggest impact.

October 9, 2024  |  Detroit Red Wings

Why Red Wings could end an eight-season playoff drought

Last season, the Red Wings finished above .500 for the first time since their last playoff appearance.

October 7, 2024  |  NHL

In or out? Six NHL teams that could see a different result in 2024-25

The 2024-25 NHL season kicked off Saturday, with the New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres competing in the NHL's Global Series in Czechia.

October 4, 2024  |  NHL

Changes coming to NHL preseason? Multiple injuries lead to calls for fewer games

The NHL preseason has been plagued by injuries to some of its biggest stars, raising questions about whether the league should cut down on exhibition contests.