We say the same thing every year: There’s simply no way to accurately assess a team’s performance at the draft the day after it has taken place. But that’s not going to stop us from trying. With the start of the season just days away, we will start by looking at the Conway Conference.
The Conway Conference, known more for grinding it out then scoring underwent a transformation this offseason. With the IHHL realigning conferences, two powerhouses, the Winter Warriors and Benders, moved in and are threatening the Monarchs’ claim to the Conference crown. How does the East stackup as of the draft? Read below to find out.
Cleveland Blackjacks - A
New owner Andy Cordova put on a clinic at the draft this season. The Blackjacks are absolutely stacked and look ready to challenge for the Conway Conference championship. The potent offense of Sidney Crosby, Tyler Seguin, and Kyle Okposo is only the first layer of a deep team. While the level of optimism currently flowing through the fan base of the Blackjacks is warranted, they have a tough fight ahead of them in the newly realigned Conway Conference.
Milwaukee Monarchs - B+
After an incredibly surprising drop to the third pick in the draft, Connor McDavid, the best prospect in the juniors this season by far, the Monarchs had no choice but to draft him. One can only assume that he will be put on the same line as Evgeni Malkin, potentially making one of the most potent combos in the league. Despite that good news for the Monarchs, they still have a defense that will have to prove itself early on in the season.
Washington Winter Warriors - B-
While the Winter Warriors have drafted what appears to be a solid team there doesn’t seem to be a true star player anywhere to be found. That isn’t to say that team owner Mac Cannon will find his squad at the bottom of the rankings come playoff time. There are, however, many questions that will need to be answered going forward this season, chief among them, who will lead this team in scoring and will it be enough to challenge for the IceBucket.
Harpswell Mayors - C
After a very successful inaugural season the Harpswell Mayors are starting off this season with what appears to be a solid squad. If you take a deeper look you’ll see that much like Winter Warriors there isn’t a lot of star power on this roster. Add to that the ongoing legal issues with team captain Patrick Kane and the Mayors may be in for a rough season.
Boston Benders - C-
Joe Pavelski, Shea Weber, and Ryan Kesler. Two of Boston’s top offensive talents and certainly their top Dman all have cracked their 30s. While many thought that the Benders would try to get younger this season it seems that they have instead become older and possibly a bit slower as well. Ever the optimist, Ms. Waters through an intern has professed her belief that the Benders will continue to challenge for the IceBucket.
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