If the Guildford Flames want to extend the Elite League title race to the final day of the regular season, they must beat the Belfast Giants on Saturday [1 April]. Period.

The Giants lead the championship battle by two points ahead of the final weekend of play, which means the Flames need to beat them in Belfast and better their result on Sunday to capture the title.

Impossible? No.

Unlikely, due to fixture difficulty? Yes.

After they host the Flames on Saturday, the Giants will travel to Scotland to face the Dundee Stars – who sit bottom of the table with only the faintest chance of qualifying for the playoffs.

The Flames also face opposition from north of the border on Sunday, with the Fife Flyers – who also sit beneath the playoff line – visiting The Spectrum.

While anyone can beat anyone in the Elite League, the mathematics isn’t ideal for Guildford.

But that will not detract from what is set to be a thrilling contest on Saturday – between two teams capable of winning it all at Playoff Finals Weekend.

Here are all the details you need to know ahead of puck drop between the Giants and Flames.

Form Guide

Belfast Giants (40-10-2):

• BEL 9-1 Manchester Storm
• BEL 8-2 Sheffield Steelers
• BEL 4-5 Cardiff Devils (OT)
• BEL 3-1 Cardiff Devils
• Manchester Storm 1-4 BEL

Guildford Flames (39-11-2):

• GUI 7-3 Dundee Stars
• Dundee Stars 4-6 GUI
• Coventry Blaze 2-4 GUI
• Sheffield Steelers 4-5 GUI (OT)
• GUI 5-4 Glasgow Clan

Statistical Leaders

Belfast Giants:

• Goals: Scott Conway (40), Steven Owre (25), Mark Cooper (21)
• Assists: David Goodwin (54), Scott Conway (49), Gabe Bast (39)
• Points: Scott Conway (89), David Goodwin (69), Gabe Bast (55)

Guildford Flames:

• Goals: Daniel Tedesco (31), Ryan Tait (27), Brett Ferguson (22)
• Assists: Daniel Tedesco (49), Brett Ferguson (45), Ben O’Connor (39)
• Points: Daniel Tedesco (80), Brett Ferguson (67), Ryan Tait (60)

TV Guide: Belfast Giants .vs. Guildford Flames

Viaplay, formerly Premier Sports, announced that it will broadcast the game on its free-to-air Viaplay Xtra channel, with coverage to begin at 18:30.

Will the Belfast Giants or Guildford Flames win the Elite League title? Join the conversation by tweeting @BritIceHockey.

Casino sites have become increasingly popular over the last decade. As they grow in terms of popularity, they seek ways to align themselves with sports teams and events. One area where online casinos, including some of the UK’s gambling sites with thousands of visitors, have been particularly active in sponsorship is with ice hockey teams, leagues, and tournaments.  

The relationship between online casinos and ice hockey sponsorship has become very strong in the past few years, and it seems that there’s more than one reason for this. Let’s find out what makes this bond so strong and beneficial.

Why Are Online Casinos Involved in Ice Hockey Sponsorship?

Ice hockey is a sport that is especially popular in certain parts of the world, such as the United States, Northern Europe, and Canada. We’re talking about a fast-paced sport that brings many exciting moments to the viewers. It’s also a sport with high levels of physicality, talent, and skill on display. So, it’s no surprise that ice hockey has a solid following, with dedicated fans passionate about their teams and the game in general.

Online casinos have obviously recognised the value of ice hockey. They figured out that ice hockey sponsorship offers many advantages. For starters, it’s an effective way to reach a large and passionate audience. Ice hockey is a trendy sport with an engaged fanbase, and sponsorships allow casino sites to connect with this audience meaningfully.

In addition, ice hockey sponsorship provides online casinos with exposure that is difficult to achieve through traditional advertising channels. Of course, the teams and tournaments can benefit, too – they can expect financial compensation, better exposure, and more.

Examples of Ice Hockey Sponsorship by Online Casinos

There are numerous examples of online casinos sponsoring ice hockey teams, leagues, and tournaments across the globe. One prominent example is the partnership between the NHL and MGM Resorts International.

MGM Resorts signed a deal with the NHL in 2018, making this iconic casino the official gaming partner of the top ice hockey league. As a result, MGM Resorts got access to a range of promotional and marketing opportunities. This land-based and online casino can now use NHL trademarks and logos in advertising, further highlighting its association with this sport.

Another excellent example of online casinos’ sponsorship of ice hockey is the New Jersey Devils and Caesars Entertainment deal. The latter became the official sports betting partner of the New Jersey Devils in 2018, giving them exclusive access to a wide variety of promotional and advertising opportunities. The analysis has shown that both parties have benefited from the sponsorship. First, the New Jersey Devils have experienced increased engagement from fans. On the other hand, Caesars Entertainment has witnessed a boost in brand awareness, leading to an increased number of new and active players.

Also, in 2023, the UK-based Betfred Casino announced its partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights. The NHL team from Las Vegas signed a multi-year partnership with Betfred. One of the first things we can expect from this sponsorship is the launching of interactive competitions for fans during intermission at select games, exposure for Betfred on the NHL’s DED broadcast signage, and the LED signage at T-Mobile Arena.

The Potential Risks of this Collaboration

We already discussed that sponsorship of ice hockey can provide various benefits to online casinos. Still, we should note that there are also some risks associated with this type of partnership. One of the main risks is the potential for negative publicity. Ice hockey is a sport where physicality, aggression, and incidents involving fans and players are not uncommon. Such incidents can cause negative media attention. Suppose an online casino is related to a team or tournament involved in harmful incidents. In that case, this can affect the casino site’s reputation.

Another risk related to ice hockey sponsorship is the potential for regulation. The gambling industry is heavily regulated in many parts of the world, including the UK. Online casinos that sponsor ice hockey teams or leagues may be subject to additional scrutiny. As a result, they might witness increased costs and administrative burdens. So, it’s better to assess the current situation in one jurisdiction before striking such deals.

This sponsorship form can provide many benefits for online casinos despite the risks. As we noted, these casino websites can increase their exposure, get in touch with a broader audience, and improve their brand image. The growing number of partnerships between online casinos and ice hockey teams and tournaments is inevitable since the online gambling industry is expected to expand in the future.

Final Thoughts

The best way to describe the relationship between online casinos and ice hockey sponsorship is to use these two words – mutually beneficial. In other words, both parties can take advantage of such deals. This is something that has been proven numerous times in the past.

As the Stanley Cup Playoffs approach, the excitement among hockey fans is palpable. There are several teams that have a legitimate shot at winning the championship this year, but here are the five teams that I believe are the most likely to take Lord Stanley home.

1. Boston Bruins remain runaway Stanley Cup favourites

The Boston Bruins have been the best team in the league all season and they are showing no signs of slowing down. Led by Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand, they have an incredibly deep and talented team that is capable of beating anyone. Their goalie tandem has been outstanding, and they have a solid defence that can shut down opponents.

If the Bruins win their way to the Stanley Cup, it will be a remarkable achievement for a team many pundits felt had reached the end of their window to contend.

Jim Montgomery has been lights out in his first season behind the bench in Boston, benefiting from remarkable individual performances by netminder Linus Ullmark and forward David Pastranak.

2. Carolina Hurricanes rise into Stanley Cup contention

The Carolina Hurricanes have not been a surprise package this season – they are a very talented team that has played consistently well all year. Their scoring is spread out throughout the lineup, and they have solid goaltending from Frederik Andersen. They are a team that could make a deep run in the playoffs.

3. Dallas Stars could be surprise package in Stanley Cup Playoffs

The Dallas Stars have been one of the hottest teams in the league over the past few months, and they are playing their best hockey at the right time. Their head coach, Peter DeBoer, has done a great job of getting the most out of his players, including several starlets who have stepped up and contributed.

Jason Robertson is the clearest example, with 91 points (41 goals, 50 assists) in 72 appearances this term. In his third professional season, the 23-year-old will be a player to watch down the stretch, as the Stars try to lock in home ice advantage in the Western Conference.

4. Colorado Avalanche in with a shot at back-to-back Stanley Cups

The Colorado Avalanche are the defending champions and boast an extremely talented roster that is capable of winning it all again this year. They endured a string of injury issues at the start of the campaign, but they are getting healthy – and hot – at the right time.

The Avalanche have won eight of their last ten games, which includes a hard-fought shootout victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs.

If the likes of Cale Makar and Nathan MacKinnon stay healthy, the Avalanche have a real shot at winning back-to-back Stanley Cups.

5. Toronto Maple Leafs could rewrite history with Stanley Cup run

The Maple Leafs have a lot of talent but have really struggled to live up to expectations in recent years.

Kyle Dubas – in the final months of his contract as general manager – made some big moves at the trade deadline to strengthen his roster, with Ryan O’Reilly, Noel Acciari, Jake McCabe, Sam Lafferty, and Erik Gustafson added to an already impressive group.

If the Leafs feel the need to add another piece to their offensive weaponry, Matthew Knies is waiting in the wings too.

History of failure aside, the Leafs mean business.

In conclusion, the Stanley Cup Playoffs are always unpredictable, and any team is capable of winning it all. However, the five teams listed above have the best chance of taking home the cup this year. It will be interesting to see how the playoffs unfold, and I can’t wait to see which team comes out on top.

On this week’s episode of the British Ice Hockey Show, we’re joined by Aberdeen Lynx Player Coach Jordan Leyden, following the clinching of the Scottish National League last weekend.

And after his side secured the South 2 title in the NIHL this week, we also hear from Bristol Pitbulls 2 Head Coach Stuart Spells.

Plus, we discuss the upcoming playoffs in North 2, as we catch up with Altrincham Aces Head Coach Elliot Bayne.

If ever there was a perfect year to perform badly in the NHL, world class draft prospect Connor Bedard has ushered its arrival.

Bedard has been making waves in the hockey world with his exceptional talent for years and is now just months away from making his debut at the professional level.

The Canadian is viewed as the consensus number one pick ahead of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, with enough talent to become a franchise-altering player on the world stage.

Consequentially, teams that finish toward the bottom of the table will have the chance to draft him and quickly rise back into playoff contention.

Knowing Bedard is available, several teams have tanked to improve their chances of winning the draft lottery.

With the highly anticipated draft approaching, the hockey world is buzzing to find out where Bedard will land. As teams jockey for position at the foot of the table, British Ice Hockey lists the three teams most likely to secure the coveted young star.

1. Columbus Blue Jackets lead race for Connor Bedard

The Columbus Blue Jackets, with a record of 22-41-7, find themselves bottom of the table and therefore in pole position to land Bedard.

General Manager Jarmo Kekäläinen made his intent to secure the 17-year-old superstar very clear when he traded defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov and goaltender Joonas Korpisalo to the Los Angeles Kings on 1 March.

However, the future isn’t as bleak as it may seem in Columbus.

The Blue Jackets have drafted impressively in recent years and have stockpiled an impressive collection of talent as a result.

Per Scott Wheeler of The Athletic, Columbus holds the third-best prospect pool in the NHL, with forward Jent Johnson and defenceman David Jiricek projected to become world-class talents.

The Blue Jackets also have Johnny Gaudreau – an elite winger who is ready to win now.

If Bedard lands in Columbus, and there is a substantial chance he will, the franchise would be well-placed for a quick rebound.

2. San Jose Sharks serious players in race to land Connor Bedard

The San Jose Sharks are also keen to improve their draft lottery odds in the final weeks of the season.

Mike Grier has endured a dismal first season as San Jose’s GM, with his squad plummeting toward the bottom of the table with a record of 19-38-15.

The Sharks were major players at the latest trade deadline, with star forward Timo Meier moved to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for top defensive prospect Shakir Mukhamadullin, numerous draft picks, and a couple of roster players.

San Jose have suffered since the departure of Meier, winning just once in their last ten games to sink to the bottom of the Pacific Division.

The Sharks really need Bedard (their prospect pool is relatively thin); time will tell if they are lucky enough to land him.

3. Chicago Blackhawks bolster Connor Bedard chances after Patrick Kane trade

The Chicago Blackhawks find themselves in a precarious position as the season winds down.

With a record of 24-41-6 on the season (and only one win in their last ten games), the Blackhawks are heading towards another disastrous finish and added to their woes by trading away legendary forward Patrick Kane to the New York Rangers.

GM Kyle Davidson has made no secret of his plan to rebuild the Blackhawks from scratch – and there is no better way to achieve his goal than drafting Bedard.

The addition of Bedard could provide a much-needed boost to their rebuilding efforts, potentially helping to turn their fortunes around in the years to come. As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see if the Blackhawks are able to find form or continue to be pulled down by poor goaltending.

Where would you like to see Connor Bedard land? Join the conversation in the replies! 

While the Sheffield Steelers are mathematically still in with a chance of being crowned Elite League champions, the title race is now effectively being fought by the Belfast Giants and Guildford Flames.

The Giants approach the penultimate weekend of the regular-season two points ahead of the Flames, which should make for a thrilling fortnight of action at the Elite League’s summit.

Belfast Giants and Guildford Flames lock horns in Elite League title fight

The Giants and Flames have been the class of the Elite League for most of the season, with a brief interlude of dominance from Sheffield earlier in the campaign.

Belfast started the year slowly, perhaps distracted by their Champions Hockey League businesses, but have since rebounded spectacularly.

Adam Keefe’s squad demolished the Fife Flyers to lift the Challenge Cup on home ice earlier this month and have their eyes firmly set on a historic domestic treble.

But the Flames are worthy title race opponents for Belfast.

Paul Dixson has built an upstart squad in Guildford – one capable of beating anyone anywhere.

The Flames are terrific off the rush, physical in their own end, and a nightmare to face on the power play.

So, what do the Giants and Flames need to do to win the Elite League title?

Belfast Giants hold upper hand in Elite League title race

The Giants are in pole position to win the championship for a second season in-a-row – with the first tie-breaker (regulation wins) splitting in their favour.

However, the pole sitter doesn’t always win out – especially when they face a tricky set of opponents down the stretch.

• Friday, 24 March – Belfast Giants v Sheffield Steelers
• Saturday, 25 March – Belfast Giants v Manchester Storm
• Saturday, 1 April – Belfast Giants v Guildford Flames
• Sunday, 2 April – Dundee Stars v Belfast Giants

Belfast’s only ‘soft’ remaining game is on decision day versus the Stars – who sit rock bottom with minimal prospects of climbing above the playoff line.

Guildford Flames remain within striking distance in Elite League title fight

The Flames – by contrast – have a relatively kind schedule to round out the season.

• Saturday, 25 March – Dundee Stars v Guildford Flames
• Sunday, 26 March – Guildford Flames v Dundee Stars
• Saturday, 1 April – Belfast Giants v Guildford Flames
• Sunday, 2 April – Guildford Flames v Fife Flyers

If Guildford finds a route to back-to-back wins over the Stars, they will land in Belfast at the start of April with everything to play for.

Ultimately, though, the title race in the Elite League will come down to simple maths.

The Flames – currently two points back from top spot – need to win in Belfast and hope the Giants drop points elsewhere.

Analysis: Belfast Giants and Guildford Flames combine for fascinating title fight

The Giants and Flames are vastly different organisations.

In Belfast, the Giants have built a true hockey institution.

The SSE Arena has the feel of a North American or Scandinavian rink in the hours before puck drop – with the club’s off-ice investment as impressive as their work on it.

The Giants are slick and have never looked out of place – from an organisational perspective – in the Champions League.

Guildford’s story is different – they play in a leisure centre and have been shadow banned from the Champions League.

But their story is equally as captivating.

Dixon has built a proper team in Guildford, with his Flames burning bright for an entire campaign.

This kind of race is exactly what the Elite League needs and makes the competition so special.

Roll on the final fortnight – this is special.

Russia and Belarus’ international ice hockey exclusion has been extended for another season, the IIHF Council announced on Wednesday [22 March].

“Based on a detailed risk assessment from a renowned company that specializes in assessing risks due to various global challenges, the IIHF Council determined that it is not yet safe to reincorporate the Russian and Belarusian Teams back into IIHF Competitions, and that it will not be safe for the upcoming 2023-24 IIHF Championship season,” a spokesperson for the world governing body wrote.

“Therefore, the IIHF will move forward with the 2023-24 IIHF Championship season without the Russian and Belarusian Teams.”

In February 2022, the IIHF suspended Russia and Belarus from international play “until further notice” in response to the invasion of Ukraine.

The IIHF also removed Russia as the host of the 2023 Men’s World Championship and moved the competition to Tampere, Finland and Riga, Latvia.

The Swedish Ice Hockey Association – which has been vocal in support of the ban – quickly announced its support of the extension.

“It is a good and important decision that Russia and Belarus will not be allowed to participate in international championships next season,” the federation for Sweden wrote. “It is a decision that we in Swedish ice hockey stand behind and see as completely necessary in the current situation.”

The Russian Ice Hockey Federation blasted the IIHF for using what it calls “contrived reasons” to block its teams from playing international events.

Analysis: IIHF extends international ice hockey bans for Russia and Belarus

The IIHF has set an important standard with its decision to freeze Russia and Belarus out of another international season.

‘If you invade another nation,’ the IIHF has essentially said, ‘you will not be allowed to participate in international ice hockey competitions.’

And that shouldn’t come as a surprise, especially when several hockey superpowers currently share a border with Russia or were previously on the doorstep of the Soviet Union.

The 2023 NHL Entry Draft will provide the sport with its next international relations flashpoint, with the status of wonderkid Russian prospect Matvei Michkov uncertain.

Michkov is a consensus top-three talent in a stacked draft class – but the situation in Russia, and his three-year contract with SKA St. Petersburg, will inevitably affect where he is selected.

“It is my dream to play in the NHL one day,” he told NHL.com through an interpreter last month. “But for now I will continue to work on my game and develop as a player at home.”

If you’re reading this article, you’re likely a fan of ice hockey. Unfortunately, our sport has been missing a critical element for almost a decade: a best-on-best tournament.

Despite having a rich history of international competition, ice hockey’s lack of a regularly scheduled best-on-best tournament has caused it to fall behind its rivals in terms of global appeal.

The NHL’s last best-on-best competition was at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. However, due to labour disputes and the COVID-19 pandemic, the league has moved away from international play.

This is a mistake, as fans are eager to see top players like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews represent their countries.

Unfortunately for NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, the success of the 2023 World Baseball Classic raises serious questions about the need for ice hockey to establish a similar tournament.

McDavid, a superstar with the Edmonton Oilers, has never played in a best-on-best ice hockey tournament for Team Canada.

However, he is enthusiastic about representing his country in such an event after watching Major League Baseball’s international competition.

“I thought it was really cool,” the 26-year-old told reporters on Wednesday. “Everyone’s been talking about baseball [and asking] ‘Did you see Ohtani versus Trout?’ and that’s what hockey’s been missing for almost a decade now. It’s what we’ve been asking for in hockey for a long time. It’s best-on-best.”

Why has it been so long since ice hockey’s last best-on-best tournament?

The NHL participated in five consecutive Winter Olympic Games but pulled out of best-on-best player ahead of PyeongChang 2018.

The league has concerns that the midseason break required for players to participate in international competitions is disruptive to the regular season.

“Quite frankly, we don’t see what the benefit is from the game- or league-standpoint with respect to participation in the Olympics,” Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said in 2017.

There is also the small matter of player insurance, which has become more of an issue since the season-ending knee injury John Tavares suffered while playing for Team Canada in Sochi.

Finally, the pandemic blocked any chance of a return to the Winter Games in 2022.

“It’s extremely disappointing that the players aren’t going,” Marchand said in December of 2021. “I think guys have worked their entire lives to put themselves in position to compete at that level and that opportunity.

“It should be guys’ decisions whether they choose to go or not, regardless of what’s happening in the world. If the Olympics are on and they’re playing, the best players in the world should have that option. It’s tough to deal with.”

Why should ice hockey prioritise best-on-best competitions?

Unlike other major sports such as football and basketball, ice hockey lacks a tournament that pits its top players against each other every four years. This void has not only hurt the game’s growth but also deprived fans of a thrilling experience and international rivalries,

If ice hockey provided a platform for its top players to showcase their skills on the international stage, it would provide an opportunity to attract fans in new regions.

Imagine an international quarter-final clash between Team Switzerland and Team Germany, with Timo Meier, Nico Hischier, Leon Draisaitl, and Tim Stützle all on the ice. It would be elite. Which is exactly why ice hockey needs a best-on-best tournament before as soon as possible.

Before the NHL withdrew from the 2022 Winter Olympics, Hischier was named as Team Switzerland’s provisional captain. He was thrilled.

“Growing up you watch the Olympic Games,” he explained. “It’s something special. It’s something I haven’t experienced in my career. It’s still a little ahead. I’m trying not to focus on that instead of the season. I’ll just take it day-by-day, but when the time comes and I go over there, it’s a dream come true. I always wanted to experience that. It’s pretty cool.”

It’s about time that ice hockey allows its best players to represent their countries.

Ultimately, the sport is missing a major opportunity to attract new fans and grow the game with a true best-on-best tournament. In wake of the World Baseball Classic’s recent success, it’s time for our game to take itself seriously and place itself alongside other major sports.

The Guildford Flames will travel to the Skydome Arena on Wednesday [22 March] with a clear objective – beat the Coventry Blaze to keep their title hopes alive in the Elite League. While the tasking facing Paul Dixon’s squad is easily identified, it will be difficult to complete.

The Blaze are in fine form under Danny Stewart and enter the final weeks of the regular-season under relatively little pressure. Coventry punched their ticket to the playoffs weeks ago and are virtually locked into fifth place in the standings.

The Flames, by contrast, are in must-win territory. Guildford sit four points behind the Belfast Giants in the title race – albeit with a game in hand – as we enter the final fortnight of the season. Effectively, they need to be perfect from here on out.

As the Blaze face off against the Flames in a crucial Elite League encounter, there are several players to keep an eye on. In this article, we’ll pick out three must-watch skaters who could have a major impact on the outcome of the game.

Guildford Flames .vs. Coventry Blaze: Three Must-Watch Players

1. Coventry Blaze Forward Johnny Curran

Johnny Curran has always been an impressive player, but he has taken another step in his career this year.

The Niagara Falls-born forward has produced offence at a point-per-game rate this term (23 goals, 27 assists) and is a livewire influence at five-on-five and the powerplay.

Curran, a recent debutant with Team GB, boasts an impressive turn of pace – relative to the Elite League – and can make netminders look silly with his quick release.

The 28-year-old has nine points (five goals, four assists) in his last six appearances for the Blaze and marked his last appearance against the Flames with a pair of assists.

Curran – as expected – remains a player to watch for Coventry.

2. Guildford Flames Forward Daniel Tedesco

Daniel Tedesco is a serious contender for the player of the year award, with 76 points (30 goals, 46 assists) in 49 appearances for the upstart Flames.

While the Canada-born Italian international is responsible in his own end, he is at his best with the puck on his stick.

Tedesco is currently on an 11-game point streak, with nine points (three goals, six assists) in his last five appearances.

When asked about the success of his newly-assembled top-six, Dixon said: “It’s up to them. We put them on a platform with big minutes and power play time but they have to deliver those numbers. All we do is provide them with the opportunity: it doesn’t happen for them guys sometimes, but other times they come in and you benefit from guys who overachieve.”

Tedesco clearly falls into the overachiever category and will make an impact for Guildford against Coventry.

3. Guildford Flames Defenceman Ben O’Connor

Ben O’Connor may not be as fleetfooted as he was in his junior years, but his experience and ability to read the game make him a vital component of the Flames’ defence.

The Team GB defenceman is a savvy operator and has played a key role in Guildford’s success this season, contributing 45 points (10 goals, 35 assists) in 49 games.

At 34 years old, O’Connor brings a wealth of experience to the table. His veteran presence on the ice provides a calming influence on his teammates, while his ability to anticipate plays and position himself well make him a formidable opponent for any team.

O’Connor’s experience will be crucial for Guildford against Coventry.

The Blaze have a talented roster with several speedy forwards who can cause problems for opposing teams, which makes the Durham-born defender’s street smarts all the more valuable.

On this week’s episode of the British Ice Hockey Show, we hear from Solway Sharks Head Coach Martin Grubb, after his side celebrated a league and cup double last weekend.

We also discuss the title race in the Women’s Elite League as we’re joined by Saffron Allen, Captain of the current league leaders Solihull Vixens.

And we’re joined by Raiders Head Coach Sean Easton, as his side looks towards the playoffs in the National League.

The NHL is never transparent about its plans for expansion, which makes comments issued by Commissioner Gary Bettman at the league’s annual meeting of general managers especially spicy.

“We’re not in expansion mode right now,” said Bettman on Wednesday [15 March], after he wrapped the general manager summit in sunny Florida. “There continues to be a number of people, entities, and cities expressing interest in having an NHL franchise – places like Atlanta, Houston, and Quebec City – but it’s not really something that’s a front burner issue for us right now.”

That said, there are plenty of reasons why hockey fans probably shouldn’t take the commissioner at his word.

History is the primary justification for a dose of scepticism.

The NHL is always opaque when it comes to the topic of expansion – with the arrival of the Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights prominent examples.

Rumours swirled about the possible launch of new teams in Nevada and Washington, but the NHL went radio silent on the subject until expansion actually arrived.

So, what should we make of recent comments on expansion to Atlanta, Houston, and Quebec City?

NHL Expansion: Are the Atlanta Thrashers set for a remarkable return?

The NHL has tried and failed to establish a foothold in Georgia, the peach state, twice before.

The Atlanta Flames arrived in the league with the Washington Capitals in 1972, but – unlike the Caps – were never able to recover from a slow start to life in the majors. After only eight seasons in the city, the franchise was relocated to Calgary – where it remains to this day.

The Thrashers were born in 1999 but only lasted in Atlanta in 2011 – when the team became the Jets and relocated to Winnipeg.

Could this be a case of third time lucky? Maybe.

Atlanta, one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, is a major television market and has a thirst for major-league sports.

While Bettman said the league hasn’t studied the sustainability of a third try in Atlanta, he did provide a titbit on arena areas.

“To the extent that we’re getting expressions of interest from the general region, it’s in locations for arenas that are different from where we’ve been before,” he told reporters earlier this week.

In short, nobody should rule out the return of the Thrashers. It is – at the very least – a topic of discussion for decision-makers at the NHL.

NHL Expansion: Houston should be a slam-dunk case for the NHL

There is a clear case for the addition of a team in Houston, the most-populus state in Texas and the whole of the Southern United States.

Speculation about a new franchise is Houston is never out of season, with Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman recently adding fuel to the fire on 32 Thoughts.

“There’s something happening, but I think the question is how far down the road we are,” Friedman said. “The NHL is trying to throw some cold water on this, which I get. They don’t want everything to get out of control here.

“The one thing I think and I absolutely agree with Jeff is that I think Houston someday will be an NHL city, I do. I just don’t know if it’s expansion or it’s relocation.”

Houston would be a perfect fit for the NHL – not least due to the rivalry potential with the Dallas Stars. Hockey is on the rise in Texas; it would be sensible for the league to expand its footprint in the state.

NHL Expansion: Could the Quebec Nordiques make a dramatic comeback?

Unlike Houston and Atlanta, Quebec City cannot lean on population size to justify the return of the Nordiques. But there is still hope, with provincial politicians keen to attach their voices to the campaign to relaunch the hockey club.

If the NHL returns to Quebec City, it would present a similar scenario to the NFL’s Green Bay Packers.

The Packers are based in a smaller market but can call upon a vociferous fanbase to fuel their success in a money-rich sport. The Nordiques would need to channel the same kind of vibes to be a success in the modern NHL.

There is a clear sentimental appeal to support expansion – or relocation – to Quebec City for the NHL. It is a hotbed for hockey, with fans desperate to relaunch a historic rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens.

While there is a tonne of fan support for a return to Quebec City, it is an outside candidate for NHL expansion – based on commentary from the league’s decision-makers.

You shouldn’t rule out a Nordiques redux – but new franchises in Houston and Atlanta remain Bettman’s favoured option.

Expansion in the NHL is always a hot topic; where would you like to see the league move next? Join the discussion in the comments.

Hockey, a sport loved by many, has produced some of the greatest athletes of all time. Whether it’s their exceptional skills on the ice or their inspiring leadership off it, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport. From Gretzky to Crosby, Orr to Lemieux, there are so many greats to choose from when looking at the history of hockey. So, we’ve put together a list of the greatest hockey players of all time – a ranking of the legends who have shaped this beloved game. In this article, we’ll highlight these legendary players and explore what made them stand out on and off the ice. Let’s dive in!

• Gordie Howe

Gordie Howe, known affectionately as “Mr. Hockey” and “Mr. Elbows,” was a legendary NHL player best remembered for his eight-year stint with the Detroit Red Wings from 1946 to 1971. During this time, Howe won four Stanley Cups and set a record of 801 career goals, cementing him firmly in the annals of hockey greatness. Aside from being an incredible scorer, Howe was also known for his tough play and lack of need for an enforcer when it came to settling issues on the ice – he embodied what it meant to be ‘tough’ during games. His legacy includes helping give rise to the “Gordie Howe hat trick” a feat that has become infamous in today’s hockey community: one goal, one assist, and one fight all in one game. Having played until age 52 (approximately 100 years in hockey years), Gordie Howe is still considered a legend throughout hockey circles even decades after he retires from the sport.

• Wayne Gretzky

Wayne Gretzky is widely considered the greatest player in NHL history. His innovative approach to hockey stunned its fans and earned him numerous accolades. He was so influential, he was awarded 4 Stanley Cup titles with the Edmonton Oilers and nine MVP awards during his time there. Following this astonishing streak, he was then traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 where his presence popularized ice hockey in the US. His impact on the game did not waver; his record-breaking 894 goals are still yet to be beaten to this day. It’s clear that “The Great One” lived up to his name, propelling the game of hockey forward and changing it forevermore.

• Bobby Orr

Bobby Orr is an iconic name in the world of hockey and his accomplishments solidify him as one of the greats. He became the first defenseman to lead the NHL in scoring in 1970 and was awarded the League MVP three times between 1970 and 1972, a remarkable feat few can emulate. Additionally, he holds a unique record of eight James Norris Memorial Trophy wins from 1968 to 1975, further proving his mastery over the sport of hockey. He earned two Stanley Cup Championships with the Boston Bruins in 1970 and 1972 – two crowning achievements to solidify his place among some of hockey’s greatest stars.

• Mario Lemieux

Mario Lemieux was a combination of power and finesse. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, he could overpower opponents with his size, but had the agility to move with lightning speed. During his career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, many of his accomplishments closely followed one another. In 1991-92 he won the NHL Stanley Cup as a player, and although he missed various seasons due to being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he still managed to amass an impressive 690 career goals. After retiring in 1997, Lemieux became a majority owner of the Penguins and two years later helped them keep afloat after they declared bankruptcy. He even returned as a player briefly before fully retiring in 2006. One more Stanley Cup win came in 2009 when the Penguins took it home – making Mario Lemieux the first person ever to win it both as a player and team owner.

• Maurice Richard

Maurice Richard, lovingly referred to as “The Rocket”, was an outstanding figure in the world of sports. He earned his nickname for his blazing speed on the ice and became a ground-breaking player in his area of expertise. What separated the legendary McGill hockey star from other players of his time was the countless accomplishments he made in just 18 years of playing with the Montreal Canadiens. Winning eight Stanley Cups and making history by being the first player to score 500 goals and light up the lamp 50 times in a single season were only some of his most remarkable achievements. However, he wasn’t only appreciated for his undeniable talent but also notorious for his belligerent nature and occasional flare-ups. This ultimately led to him being suspended after causing a major commotion amongst fans by fighting during a game, resulting in riots all over Montreal. All things considered, Maurice Richard truly was an inspirational figure even after leaving us too soon.

Conclusion

It’s easy to get lost in the debate of who is the greatest hockey player of all time. But, when it comes down to it, there isn’t a single player who can lay claim to that title. The game is filled with legends that have left their mark in different ways, and this list shows some of them. These players had unique skill sets that allowed them to rise above the rest and inspire millions of people along the way. So let’s take a moment and give thanks to the players that made hockey so legendary. They were pioneers on the ice and gave us something special we will never forget.

The Champions Hockey League (CHL) has dropped mixed news on the Elite League, with confirmation that our national champions will receive a spot in the competition – unless the Guildford Flames prevail in the title race, that is.

Confused? Don’t be.

Earlier this season, Champions League decision-makers announced their intention to restructure the tournament – which raised the possibility that the Elite League could be excluded altogether.,

Thankfully, that hasn’t happened under the new 24-team format.

“The champions of Denmark, France, Norway, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom will be invited to compete in Europe’s elite club ice hockey competition,” wrote a spokesperson. “The decision has been made by taking several criteria, such as competitiveness in previous Champions League seasons, management structure, infrastructure, and attendance, into consideration.”

But there is a catch.

The Champions League will review its ‘challenger’ invitations on a yearly basis – which means any of the current invitees could be swapped out with minimal notice or justification.

There is also a scoop of bad news reserved for the Flames – their entrance to the competition will be blocked even if they win the Elite League title.

“Should the Flames become national champions,” continued the statement, “the place will be allocated to the second-place team as Guildford does not meet the Champion Hockey League’s requirements.”

In other words, the Flames cannot feature in the Champions League as they fall short on an unspoken set of criteria – which are presumably related to their arena.

The Flames are based in The Spectrum – a leisure centre.

While the ice surface is adequate and the team is supported by a passionate fanbase, the venue is small – especially by Champions League standards – and difficult to broadcast from.

Hence the Flames have been blocked from the competition.

Analysis: Champions Hockey League drops mixed news on Elite League, Guildford Flames

Stadium, or arena, requirements are a common feature in international and domestic sports competitions.

In continental football, it is fairly common for ‘smaller’ clubs to play their fixtures at an alternative venue when their stadium fails to meet the requirements set by UEFA.

In other words, the Guildford Flames find themselves in familiar territory.

But does that make the situation they face fair?

Of course not.

If the Flames win the title, they will have earned a spot in the Champions League.

“That’s why we do it,” Paul Dixon said when asked about his title ambitions. “That’s why we’re here and that’s what our goal was this summer. We have to be realistic with the teams that are in our league, and we are very realistic here, but we want to push them and finish as strong as we can. We’ll take it one game at a time and just make sure we win as many as we can.”

It would be a major disservice to the Elite League if its champion is blocked from the Champions League.

But Guildford isn’t where the unfairness starts and ends – the whole league is under threat.

The Champions League is now effectively a closed shop, with the majority of places reserved for ‘founder league’ clubs.

If you aren’t in the clique, you probably won’t be invited – which completely undermines the idea that the competition could help the sport develop a foothold in ‘newer’ hockey nations.

Ultimately, the Champions Hockey League h

There has been a growing presence of cryptocurrency and NFTs in sport in recent years.

Whether that’s collecting unique NFTs – a digital download – or choosing a crypto casino to play from cryptocasinos247.com, it’s clear there is a market for these tokens.

We look at some of the deals in hockey currently.

High profile sponsorships

The NHL has one of the most high profile crypto sponsorships, with the home of the Los Angeles Kings known as the Crypto.com Arena.

They secured naming rights in December 2021, meaning the venue changed from being known as the Staples Centre, in a 20-year deal worth an eye-watering $700m.

The company claims to have more than 10 million customers and employs more than 2,600 people.

The deal made the brand an official cryptocurrency platform partner of the Kings, plus NBA side Los Angeles Lakers.

The same brand has also forged major deals with Montreal Canadiens and the International Ice Hockey Federation.

New Jersey Devils signed up a fans token partner, as they sought to integrate blockchain technology with their fan engagement and monetisation strategies. Fan tokens have been the most obvious way of clubs jumping on the bandwagon.

The first NHL team to accept crypto payments

San Jose Sharks became the first NHL team to accept crypto for payments, enabling fans to purchase season tickets, hospitality and sponsorships.

President Jonathan Becher said: “We’re accepting PayPal, so then by definition, we’re accepting cryptocurrency. Why not embrace it and make it more visible as opposed to just doing it through a third party?”

When launched, they said over time they would look to include single-match tickets, food/drink and merchandise.

Betting using crypto

Betting is a major part of sports these days, and there’s even a way of that intertwining with crypto. There are crypto sportsbooks, that enable you to bet cryptocurrency on NHL markets to grow your wallet, in the same way that you would with regular pounds or dollars.

The most common betting markets in hockey are the straight moneyline, backing who will win a match; handicapping a result to a certain number of goals or the total goals in the match.

Collectibles

Hockey cards and figures have been extremely popular for many years. The presence of NFTs in the market provide a modern way of collecting. An example is Hockey Heroes, which is a release of 3000 unique and rare hockey cards, including 111 legendary ones. They are stored on blockchain and fans are able to buy them. The first season will come up with rare assets, such as golden helmets and sticks.

An NFT, which stands for ‘non-fungible token’ is data that sits within a digital ledger and it is unique. Whoever purchases an NFT is the sole owner of that unique piece of ‘art’.

The NHL launched its own official NFT Digital Collectibles Marketplace for the start of the 2022/23 season.

NHL executive vice president of business development and innovation, Dave Lehanski, said: “I think it’s fair to say that this is one of the largest licensing deals we’ve done in league history. So it is very lucrative. And we think that there’s also huge upside going forward.

“Building NFTs and digital collectibles that are really cool, have great design and are scarce and have collectible value is absolutely important, but we’re also thinking about what’s the utility beyond that and about how [digital collectibles] plug into the broader fan experience and what that means for the NHL.”

The official digital collectibles included videos from the current season, as well as archive footage featuring the likes of legends Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby and Mario Lemieux.

One of the biggest NFT collections in the NHL was the LA Kings NFT launched to celebrate their return to the play-offs in 2022.

Making payments to players?

An article in The Hockey News last year asked the question whether crypto could be the future for hockey contracts, citing the difficulties and delays in making international payments, particularly for American players playing in Europe.

The story of former New York Rangers prospect Danny Kristo, who played for multiple teams in Europe, but could only access his Swedish bank account if he turned up in person, is perhaps the best example of this. There’s also the fact that fees can be charged for making withdrawals of money in different currencies.

One idea originating from a cryptocurrency token provider, was that players could use it as an international banking provider to receive payment for playing in an efficient manner.

It’s clear that crypto and other modern currencies are going to evolve over time and become more commonplace within traditional markets. Whether hockey and the NHL in particular, can maximise the commercial opportunities of it remains to be seen.

Mikkelin Jukurit were officially eliminated from playoff contention on the final day of the regular-season in Finland, with Liam Kirk narrowly denied the chance to appear in the postseason of Liiga.

Jukurit battled for playoff berth until the final buzzer sounded on their campaign, finishing just one point short of qualification after they recorded a 6-2 win over Oulun Kärpät on decision day.

Kirk, who debuted for the Mikkelin-based club in January, posted 19 points (seven goals, 12 assists) in 25 appearances under head coach Olli Jokinen.

The 23-year-old, placed on loan by the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes on 28 December, was an ever present top-nine forward for Jukurit and scored from the second line versus Kärpät on the final day of the season.

Jukurit finished with a record of 24-6-30 on the season, just one point behind 19-16-25 KooKoo.

Analysis: Liam Kirk’s Mikkelin Jukurit narrowly miss Liiga Playoffs

Before he was sent to Finland, Liam Kirk was in an unenviable position.

The Team Great Britain forward was scratched into oblivion in the American Hockey League to start the season and was subsequently demoted to the ECHL’s Atlanta Gladiators.

He quickly took to life in the third division – which only underscored the absurdity of his situation.

Kirk, in the second season of his three-year entry-level contract with the Arizona Coyotes, needed to be stretched in order to develop.

And he just wasn’t afforded that kind of opportunity in North America.

Puzzling. Bizarre. Infuriating.

Whatever label we put on the health scratch marathon, it clearly wasn’t in the best interests of Kirk – nor his potential trade value to the Coyotes.

Hence his loan to Finland and Jukurit, where he flourished.

While Kirk nominally dropped to third line on a couple of occasions, he saw top-six ice time throughout his time under the direction of Olli Jokinen.

Kirk on oikeassa paikassa oikeaan aikaan, ja tilanne on 1-5 🔥

🎥 @CMoreSportFi #Jukurit #Liiga https://t.co/4g7g2LaweP pic.twitter.com/CXMSWNsmpQ

— Mikkelin Jukurit (@MikkelinJukurit) March 11, 2023

And he delivered.

Kirk was a constant threat for Jukurit, producing bucketloads of offence from the centre or the wing.

But it was the defensive side of his game that developed the most in Liiga – he was steady and solid when required, which should raise eyebrows in Phoenix.

“I look at this as having a great opportunity to go and develop in one of the best leagues in the world,” said Kirk shortly after his move to Jukurit. “I want to have a good, strong last part of the season here and then we’ll see how things go.

“I had a lot of time last summer after the injury, dwelling on things, planning my future out and I had planned on being in the AHL all this season. It didn’t turn out that way so, right now, I’m just focussed on being here at the moment and seeing what I can do.

“There’s a loan agreement in place and I’m sure if Arizona wanted to take me back over there this season they would do, but I highly doubt it given the way everything has gone so far this season. I fully expect to see the season out here.”

“To be quite honest, I hope I do. I’ve been moved around so much I want to finish out the season in one place and Jukurit were really hot on me playing here, they really wanted me, so I’d love to finish the season with them and have a good play-off run.”

There is no doubt that Kirk was disillusioned by his treatment in Arizona.

While the Coyotes organisation owes him nothing, their reluctance to deploy him in the AHL was – at best – extremely odd, not least because the Tucson Roadrunners have struggled for offence this term.

It remains to be seen what will happen next, now that Jukurit’s season is over.

But, whatever awaits him over the horizon, it is clear that Kirk has bolstered his stock over the last couple of months.

Arizona, the puck is in your zone. Use it.

On this episode of the British Ice Hockey Show, we hear from Streatham Player Coach Ben Paynter following his side securing their third consecutive league title.

We also catch up with Head Coach Jamie Elson at the Bristol Pitbulls, on the race for the playoffs in the National League.

And we’re joined by Sutton Sting Player Coach Matt Jeffcock, as his side confirmed their place in the North 2 playoffs last weekend.

Hockey is a competitive, thrilling, and entertaining sport that is played by millions of people around the world. Did you know that, in addition to the actual sport and contests, hockey is frequently featured in video games, digital content, and even online casinos? Whatever your favorite sport is, you may find a gambling game that is themed after it. In this article, we are going to look at the best Hockey themed casino games. Let’s dive in without wasting any time!

Do you know that you don’t have to spend a lot of time on the internet to choose the best online casino for you, whether the theme is hockey or not? 21bit casino, with its expert staff, offers you the most convenient form of entertainment that a casino can provide you. If you value things like variety in payment methods and reliability, you should give it a try! 

Hockey League by Pragmatic Play

The Hockey League has an average return to player rate (94.11%). Return to Player, or RTP, is the term used to define the portion of all bets that an online slot machine eventually returns to its players. A slot machine like Hockey League, for instance, has a 94.11% RTP and returns 94.11 cents for every euro wagered. Because this is not divided equally among all players, it gives you the opportunity to win large sums of money and jackpots on even modest deposits. If you enjoy playing online slots and hockey, you must try this game. Pragmatic Play is also a prominent provider for the gaming industry. You might enjoy a rewarding betting experience in the Hockey League. Because of its wide range of betting options, this game is appropriate for both newcomers and high rollers. 

Break Away by Microgaming

Since they were the first to create online casino software, Microgaming is frequently credited as the creator of contemporary online casinos. They also provide a huge selection of games, including Mega Moolah, one of the most well-known slots ever. This slot has produced numerous $10 million+ jackpots as well as the largest slot win of all time. They also feature a wide selection of exciting video slots with sports themes, such as Break Away, which is focused on hockey. This game has a respectable RTP of 96.29% and is regarded as having mild volatility (Return to Player). Each of its five reels contains three rows. The game is packed with elements related to ice hockey. For instance, the goalkeeper, referee, and hockey players are some of the emblems. There are additional emblems, such as the hockey rink and snowblower. For those without much experience with slots, it is an entertaining game to play and has a straightforward betting structure.

Hockey Hero by Push Gaming

Another well-known supplier of online casino games for anyone with an interest in this industry is Push Gaming. It is not surprising that ice hockey players enjoy spinning the reels because of their alluring patterns, bright lights, captivating audio effects, and the possibility of winning enormous sums of money. If you love both ice hockey and slot machines, you should give this game a try. Huge jackpots, more free spins, a reward game, and gorgeous visuals fit for a movie studio are all features of this game.

Ice Hockey by Playtech

The interactive features are set up so that two ice hockey teams compete against one another, with the multiplier being the image of the puck. Once you start playing, you’ll have the chance to take part in a thrilling ice hockey rivalry. They added a variety of rewarding features to the game to go along with the amazing aesthetics. These highlights have the express purpose of increasing your chances of winning the game.

To Sum Up 

Hockey is not only a spectacular game, but also a sport that immerses us with its themes integrated into technology. All the hockey-themed games mentioned above have been developed by the pioneers of the gaming world and will keep you hooked on your couch for a while. You should definitely give them a try!

This week on the British Ice Hockey Show, we’re joined by Coventry Blaze Head Coach Danny Stewart, following back to back victories over Sheffield in the Elite League last weekend.

And with two teams still competing on three fronts in the National League, we hear from both Leeds Knights Captain Kieran Brown, and Peterborough Phantoms Defenceman Tom Norton, as we discuss the upcoming National Cup Final, as well as the race up at the top of the league with Milton Keynes.

Belfast, Northern Ireland – The Belfast Giants reinforced their dynasty status on Wednesday [1 March], as they produced a colossal performance to secure the Viaplay Elite League Challenge Cup for the second year in a row.

Adam Keefe’s squad dominated every facet of their final date with the Fife Flyers. Period.

The Giants scored four times without reply to establish an early lead and were never forced to look back from there. Despite their perseverance, the Flyers were never able to keep stride with their hosts at a sold-out SSE Arena and return to Kirkaldy wounded by the 9-3 final score.

It was a remarkable final – one ultimately defined by the club-wide excellence that exists in Belfast. The Giants are streets ahead of their rivals at the top of the Elite League, with the quality of their facilities and staff numbers way above the competition average.

Evidently, the Giants remain some way behind their Champions Hockey League peers.

When Belfast hosted Skelleftea in a continental clash back in October, beat reporters for the Swedish Hockey League club were stunned by the quality of their challenger from Northern Ireland. The Giants vastly exceeded their expectations – both on and off the ice.

But, in the context of our hockey landscape, there is no doubt that we are in a Belfast Giants dynasty.

Since the Elite League returned from the pandemic, Keefe & Co. have scooped back-to-back Challenge Cups and the regular season title. They also made it to the playoff finals last term – and can credibly aim for a treble after their latest trophy list.

They are serious and unwavering.

“I can’t rank any of them, they’re all good,” Keefe said when asked to rank the Fife win. “It’s extra special to do it in front of the fans, we talked about having a big start and making sure we used the crowd to our advantage. That’s what we did. You heard the support: it’s extremely loud, it gives me chills. It’s special to be able to reward [the supporters] at the end of the night.”

Midseason arrivals fuel Belfast Giants to dynasty plateau

The SSE Arena was packed for the final and sold out even quicker than expected – which is a major achievement after the ticket fiasco that overtook Playoff Finals Weekend last season.

And, for the sake of confirmation, Keefe is correct about the atmosphere: the arena was electric from the moment the doors opened.

“I’ve had a couple of thousand fans at previous games but this is like nothing else I have ever experienced,” new arrival Grant Cooper told British Ice Hockey. “They’re loud, proud, and we’ve got the trophy for them. It’s the best atmosphere I’ve played in.”

Cooper has experienced a wild ride in Belfast since his move from the Leeds Knights in January.

The Canadian has 13 points (four goals, nine assists) in 12 league appearances for his new club and marked the Challenge Cup final with a third period strike.

Cooper continued: “It’s been a crazy month and a half here. The guys are great and the fans are awesome. It’s definitely been a cool experience so far. Leeds was nothing but great to me. It was a good a stepping stone and I have nothing but good things to about the organisation and the league. I made the right decision to come to Belfast – but that’s one trophy, there are still two more to go.”

Cooper looked like a sensible addition for the Giants at the time of his transfer. It turns out that the 26-year-old is more of a slam dunk.

Belfast also added – or re-added – netminder Tyler Beskorowany before deadline day.

They swapped out Peyton Jones, who posted mediocre numbers in Belfast, for a proven winner in Beskorowany and have already reaped the rewards.

“This is right up there with the last few that I’ve won,” the 32-year-old told British Ice Hockey as his teammates celebrated on the ice. “The atmosphere was great tonight and the team has been great since I showed up. It’s good to get that win for those guys.”

While Beskorowany was responsible for Fife’s third strike, he made a collection of important that steadied the ship for Belfast. He just played on, unfazed by his error, to backstop his team to another championship.

The Canadian’s story is somewhat unique.

Beskorowany retired last offseason and accepted a job outside the hockey world back home only to return to Belfast a few short months later.

But his U-Turn is easy to understand: Belfast adores him and he loves the city back – a sentiment evident throughout the organisation and crucial to the culture Keefe has built.

Relentless Belfast Giants lock in dynasty tag with Challenge Cup scoop

The Flyers projected a sense of quiet confidence as they went about their morning skate before the final. The Giants, by contrast, filled the SSE Arena with noise.

They knew they had Fife covered and emphatically proved it hours later.

“I do like to have some atmosphere on the ice, personality goes a long way,” Keefe told British Ice Hockey hours before puck drop. “The guys are having fun out there and we’re in a good spot, so I would be concerned if it was quiet out there – but sometimes nerves do that to you.

“When we’re going into the game, we certainly want to be loud, communicating with each other, and enjoy it. I’ve taken part in a lot of these games and it’s a lot of fun.”

The Giants clearly enjoyed their win over Fife.

By the time the players left the ice, staff at the SSE Arena had already de-littered the stands and were almost ready to clock out. But the celebrations continued and the booze flowed on what was a remarkable night for the hockey club.

The Giants look like a dynasty. The Giants act like a dynasty. The Giants have the hardware to prove they are a dynasty.

While there is a chance that their season could unravel or they fall just short in the title race, capitulation in Belfast feels unlikely.

Is there a chance that the Giants will lift their foot from the accelerator?

“Well, there’s always a concern [that there could be a hangover from the win],” said Keefe. “But we’ll do our best to get everyone back on board on Friday and ride the wave.”

Broadly, that translates as ‘no’. The Giants will only accelerate from here.

SSE Arena, Belfast – The Belfast Giants won the Viaplay Challenge Cup for the second season in a row, defeating the Fife Flyers 9–3 in front of a capacity crowd at the SSE Arena.

Mikael Johansson created the first moment of drama virtually on his own, circling the offensive zone twice before hitting the post with a wicked wrist shot on three minutes.

However, the Flyers were immediately made to pay for their missed chance by David Goodwin, who raced away on the transition and evaded the backcheck to score unopposed at the back door.

While Fife continued their offensive push, the quality of the Giants told on the ice and – most importantly – the scoreboard.

Belfast doubled their advantage while shorthanded after nine minutes, with Gabe Bast pouncing on a loose puck in neutral ice before feeding Donovan Neuls with another back door play.

Steven Owre added a third to the Giants’ tally as the first period wound down, deking through the offensive zone and poking the puck beyond a sprawling Shane Owen.

After the restart, Belfast continued their fine work and scored in short order – albeit in controversial circumstances on the powerplay.

The Flyers felt there was netminder interference before Matt McLeod stabbed the puck into the net, but their appeal was shot down by the officials after a four-minute review.

But Fife never called it quit and were rewarded for their efforts midway through the second period, when a scramble in the crease sent the puck onto the stick of Jonas Emmerdhal, who hammered a slapshot into the net to break the shutout.

The Flyers struck for the second time at 38:18, with Janne Kivilahti sending the away crowd into raptures with a tenacious finish on Tyler Beskorowany.

When Fife headed to the powerplay just one minute later, the Flyers’ end erupted – only to be silenced by another shorthanded strike, this time from Ben Lake, to make it 5-2 just ten seconds later.

The Flyers and Giants exchanged blows in the opening minute of the third period, with Janne Laakkonen dragging Fife back into touching distance before Ciaran Long extinguished any hopes of a comeback.

Mark Cooper, Grant Cooper, and David Gilbert rounded out the scoring on a night to remember for the Giants.

Quotes and further updates to follow.