Just under 2 days left until the start of the 2012-13 ABC League season. With some roster changes in the off-season, the addition of 2 new teams, and the creation of conferences, the league standings are up in the air.
Here is my best analysis of how things may shake out.
Hops Conference
1. Voodoo - With some added firepower on offense and a solid defense returning, the Voodoo team poses the greatest threat. A well balanced attack along with consistent goaltending should have this team take first in the Hops Conference.
2. Red Alert - This team is the Dark Horse this season. Tony Hansen has travelled to Europe over the summer to fine tune his technique and Tyler Wallace coming off a Top Defenseman season last year will lead this team to a respectable 2nd position.
3. Alien Hockey - No repeat of the last season champs. Although Alien had glimmers of greatness, they spent the entire off season celebrating and not staying in shape. Star forwards, Mark Dylo and Aaron Clutts gained a combined 90 pounds, while defenseman, Pat Houlihan started smoking and is up to 2 packs a day.
4. Puckheads - The new addition to the league brings some great talent. Smiley, Hickey & Coffie are all great players, but too much talent on one team is a downfall. Each one brings a selfish level of talent to the table and will be the team's demise.
Barley Conference
1. Rink Rats - Here we see how an expansion team can find just the right mix of talent to take the number one spot in the Barley Conference. What's the recipe for a winning combination? Look no further than the Young-Scholer-Wurzer line. This team has all the right pieces.
2. Forklifts of DM/Kyles Bikes - Change your name and change your luck. Just like Atlanta used to be the Flames and then the Thrashers, the Forklifts of Des Moines / Kyles Bikes are the rising stars in this conference. Goodman has assembled a fine crew to make a run for the title.
3. Cup O' Kryptonite - They find a way to make the title game every year, and this year may not be different, but they won't be top 2 in their conference. Inconsistent play from Toigo & Gugat along with old-timer Mitch Stein, has this team on the slide. With no reloading of talent, this team will be sub .500.
4. Victors - The perennial powerhouse Puck Hawgs team will not possess the punch of previous years. The majority of the players held out for new deals and new teams. Gannon worked frantically all season to get everyone bought in to his new system and nobody wanted any part of it. This will show this year as each player will play with no passion.
I predict a Voodoo versus Forklifts of DM/Kyles Bikes in the Championship Game with Voodoo as the 2012-13 champs.
Good Luck to all and make sure your first priority is to have fun!
