Episode 0111: NCAA Regionals, Entry Level Signees, Jets Issues, Boston’s Top Line, Jon Cooper Extended, The Masterton Nominees, Caps Worst Opponent, Twitter Poll and More!

The latest episode of the Two Man Forecheck spans all levels of hockey.  We start in the open with a breakdown of the NCAA regional round held in New Hampshire this weekend.   While the four teams the Forecheck watched on Friday were entertaining, they were also eye opening from the standpoint of talent in the college ranks.  We were witness to a team that struggled to get the puck out of their own zone, as well as a team that put up a stoic fight even while losing one of their top talented players early in the second period.  That plus a chance meeting with the ESPN crew after the games made for a fun day.

We branch from here to the number of college players who have finished their respective seasons and immediately signed their entry level contracts.  No fewer than 10 players from BU and BC have moved on from their current squads, leaving their respective schools to search for new talent.

The Winnipeg Jets have been a strong team for the last couple years, but, as reported by Andrew Berkshire of the Winnipeg Free Press, they are a leaky ship this season.  Using many advanced metrics, he explains how this team may not be as good as they appear to be playing.  Missing a couple key components would be one reason.

The Bruins have arguably the best line in hockey this season, with Pastrnak, Marchand and Bergeron all averaging better than a point per game.  We break down the line and compare them to other top lines in the NHL.

Jon Cooper, head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning, has signed an extension to remain with the organization for years to come.  While not shocking, he is the longest tenured coach in the NHL, having been with the Bolts for the last 6 years.  We unpack his time with the team and discuss just how difficult his job may or may not be while leading his squad.

The Masterton Award is given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.  This year’s nominees have, for the most part, one thing in common…age.  Most of the players are 30 plus years of age.  There are a few around 27, but for the most part, teams seem to have nominated their oldest player.

Peter Hassett of RMNB feels that the Capitals may have a team to fear this season in the playoffs…the Carolina Hurricanes.  Even though the Caps have won all four games this season and 15 of the last 20 matchups, the stats he proposes bear out that the Canes have a chance.  Discuss amongst yourselves…and with us!

Finally, we reveal the results of our Twitter poll.  Barry Trotz wins with 50 percent of the votes, but some feel (namely Mike) that it will be someone else.

As advertised, we span many topics this week so give us a listen and send us all your feedback, but most of all…Enjoy the show!