It’s that time of year again…no its not time for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but it is a special time.  It is time to be thankful for family, friends, good health, and hockey…

The NHL season takes a little break for the Holiday Season, and we can reflect on what we have seen thus far this season, and what a few teams are looking to find under the Christmas tree.

Who would have guessed that the Vegas Golden Knights would be the third best NHL team.   I am pretty sure they would have been talked about as a success if they were over 500.  The New Jersey Devils have also risen to a playoff spot this season.  Pretty good for a team that selected first in last summers NHL Entry Draft.  The Tampa Bay Lightning  roll as many expected they would.  After missing the playoffs last season, they are out for revenge this year.

In the Western Conference the Nashville Predators are proving last year was not a fluke, and the Los Angeles Kings are back, and I mean they are back.  They are in first place in the Pacific Division, and playing some really good hockey.

There is also a group of teams that sent some very important Christmas requests to Santa.  On the top of many teams Christmas list is WINS – Edmonton and Pittsburgh are feeling the pressure and I have to believe this is what their Santa request was.  The Anaheim Ducks and Vancouver Canucks are asking for good health.  It is much needed.  Buffalo and Arizona are asking for time to skip ahead so they can end this difficult season.

The NHL season has been entertaining and filled with surprises.  What will the second half bring us…

The Inside Edge Hockey News would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.  Take the time to enjoy family and really appreciate all the good things that we are so blessed with.  Often times we take for granted and forget what is really important.  Cherish the good, and hope and pray for the future.  Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

This is what I am thankful for: