With the NHL draft approaching, the league is buzzing with activity as teams assess their rosters and prepare for free agency. Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Rangers, and Boston Bruins are among those eager to make significant moves. The Pittsburgh Penguins have positioned themselves as sellers, with players like Eric Karlsson and Bryan Rust attracting interest. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks have made controversial trades, such as acquiring Evander Kane, whose past performance raises questions about his fit on a rebuilding team. As the offseason progresses, expect more trades and strategic signings as teams navigate the changing landscape of the NHL.

This week's episode shines the spotlight on the top five left wingers dominating the fantasy hockey landscape as the season approaches. Players like Jake Guentzel, who has proven his worth away from the shadow of Sidney Crosby, are highlighted as essential picks. Meanwhile, debates swirl around the consistency of stars like Artemi Panarin and Brady Tkachuk, as their roles within their respective teams evolve. The hosts also delve into the enigmatic nature of Stuart Skinner's performance with the Edmonton Oilers, examining his erratic fantasy value and potential for future games. As they wrap up, they share crucial betting insights for today's NHL playoff games, urging listeners to keep track of player stats and trends for informed decisions.

The latest episode of the Locked On NHL podcast tackles the pressing issues surrounding the Pittsburgh Penguins and their recent coaching change. The Penguins dismissed head coach Mike Sullivan amidst concerns about their aging core, led by stars like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, and the lack of consistent performance, particularly in goal. Discussion also shifts to the Winnipeg Jets, who are facing a serious playoff crisis, primarily due to Connor Hellebuyck's underwhelming postseason performance.

Listeners are treated to insights about potential coaching candidates for the Penguins, including David Quinn and the implications of maintaining or shifting focus from the veteran core as they transition to a younger roster. The conversation further explores the dire state of the Jets in the playoffs, raising alarm bells for their fanbase as they struggle against the St. Louis Blues.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have parted ways with head coach Mike Sullivan, a move that raises immediate questions for the New York Rangers, especially since Sullivan has been a top choice for Rangers' head coaching vacancies in the past. Sullivan, who led the Penguins to two Stanley Cup victories during his ten-year tenure, is now a free agent, making him an enticing candidate for the Rangers as they seek a new head coach.

Despite his past successes, Sullivan's recent track record with the Penguins has sparked debate. After winning back-to-back Cups, the Penguins have only managed to win one playoff series in the last eight years, which is a significant concern. The Rangers face a crucial rebuilding phase and may want to consider whether hiring Sullivan would represent yet another conservative choice, rather than trying something bold and innovative.

The Chicago Blackhawks coaching search intensifies with the sudden availability of Mike Sullivan, former head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Following David Carl's withdrawal from consideration, speculation mounts around Sullivan as the ideal candidate to lead the team through its rebuilding phase. Known for his ability to command respect and his impressive resume, Sullivan checks many boxes for the Blackhawks. However, concerns linger about his willingness to take on a rebuilding project in Chicago, given his successful track record and potential interest from other contending teams like the New York Rangers.

The conversation around Sullivan also highlights the challenges facing the Blackhawks in attracting top coaching talent. Factors such as market size and the team's current state of development might deter some candidates. The expectation is that the next head coach will need to navigate a transitional period, which could discourage high-profile candidates who prefer more immediate success. As the Blackhawks prepare for the next steps in this critical hiring process, the landscape remains fluid with new names potentially entering the fray.