While the top of the Metro Division gets stronger, we could see an implosion or two at the bottom. The NHL trade chatter is patiently awaiting the New York Rangers’ potential destruction and the big-name exodus that could begin at mid-season. Elsewhere in the Daily, the NHL Network gave Sidney Crosby some love, the Nikita Kucherov extension is going to be complicated, the Edmonton Oilers stars are steadfastly in Mike Babcock’s corner, and we made five way-too-early Pittsburgh Penguins predictions.

…I was talking with some hospitality folks over the weekend. They had been to the beach and noticed the same thing I’ve noticed in my very limited summer travel.

Anecdotal evidence from their beach trip and talking to people in the industry indicated that business for spots in Ocean City was down 40%. I’ve seen the same when I’ve been able to escape up north (only twice) this summer. I had the thought–where is everyone?

The one thing I’ve noticed is that hotel prices are 50% higher across the board. Even the crummy spots. I hope they’re not all using something similar to that infernal software that showed it was a good idea to raise rents across the country a few years ago. I agree, it becomes a lot less attractive to hang out in a small town when you’re paying $150 a night, and it becomes even harder to spend a week at the beach when the hotel price takes a big chunk of the fun money. Part of the joy of heading north was the inexpensive stay and local eats, but that was not the case this year. Still, if you’re debating a roadie before the end of the season … do it!

Let’s get to the hockey, eh?

Pittsburgh Penguins

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: What about the defensive imbalance? What about the forward battles and the overcrowded dressing room, and where does Ville Koivunen fit? We made some early Penguins predictions.

NHL.com: Sidney Crosby isn’t in the top five anymore, but he got a fair rating from the folks at the NHL Network, which ranked the league’s top 20 centers.

NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now

NHLtraderumors.me: The Athletic’s Arthur Staple joined a Rangers podcast and let rip. Adam Fox has one foot out the door. The other veterans could file out by mid-season, and GM Chris Drury would go with them. It could be the rumor mill dream, but a very real nightmare scenario for the New York Rangers.

Colorado Hockey Now: Cale Makar will be a free agent next summer. There’s been much less chatter about his future since Quinn Hughes has been soaking it all up. But what about a new deal for Makar? GM Joe Sakic held court after an alumni game and did his best to project confidence regarding the very key question. But what about a new deal for lame duck coach Jared Bednar? Or an extension for Artturi Lehkonen? There’s more intrigue building in the Rockies. Here’s the latest for the Colorado Avalanche.

Sportsnet: Nikita Kucherov is due a contract by the Tampa Bay Lightning, or the former Hart Trophy winner will become a free agent. However, it’s not quite that simple. It will be a complicated extension, and a lot of eyes are watching Tampa Bay.

NHL.com: On the European media tour, Leon Draisaitl doubled down on support for new coach Mike Babcock. It seems the boys really wanted the embattled coach known for manipulation and drawing hard lines. Draisaitl is looking forward to Babcock holding him and Connor McDavid accountable.

Detroit Hockey Now: I suppose it is time to have a little mocking fun at the job Steve Yzerman did with the Detroit Red Wings. Bob Duff plants the most forgettable Red Wings additions.

San Jose Hockey Now: It seems mini-Sid will become the next captain of the San Jose Sharks. Remember when Macklin Celebrini was thought to be a mediocre first overall pick? Now, Celebrini has surpassed Connor Bedard and is likely to be the next Sharks captain.

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