Only one of the season’s top eight teams in the playoff final four

What we’ve noticed, more than ever, is that the clubs that advance in the playoffs are the ones that understand how to use the system to their advantage during the season, in particular.

The Panthers and Stars had some big names on the long-term injured list this season. This made it possible to pick up Seth Jones and Mikko Rantanen, among others.

This is a game-changer in the playoffs because it means there are more players available to the coaches.

The Oilers weren’t the most active on the heels of the trade deadline (a goalie might have made things easier), but Evander Kane spent the season on the LTIR.

More importantly, though, is the impact of low taxes in Carolina, Florida, Texas and Alberta. No provincial taxes in Alberta: it’s different from the rest of Canada.

Players are inevitably more attracted than ever to markets like these.

For years, one of the two Florida clubs has been in the finals. It’s no coincidence… even if the clubs don’t systematically “dominate” the regular season.

But the managers of these teams are playing to their strengths, and it’s obviously working.

overtime

– Nice goal!

– André Tourigny gives love to his team’s fans.

– Indeed.

– Bo Horvat heads to Long Island to get checked out by Islanders doctors.