NHL 18 Thread

[Ursel23]

Something to be excited about... they've finally added the feature in Franchise mode everyone has wanted for years... The ability to offer contract extensions mid season. About time EA... Looking forward to this. 

[Ursel23]

The expansion draft looks pretty cool. And from what I gathered from the trailer you can do a 32nd NHL team or you can do the expansion as the Knights. Also pretty neat that you can start a season before the expansion with your favourite team (Canucks) and choose to protect who you want. 

[Ursel23]

Has anyone heard anything about when EA Sports plans to release each teams player ratings ? Very curious to see who the Canucks top rated player is. 

[Ursel23]

I watched the expansion draft trailer again and noticed that they've added the NMC (no movement clause) to players in the NHL that have that in their contracts. I wonder if this will be included in trading players or just for the expansion. 

[ftmN]

Expansion draft is all well and good for GM mode, but it means nothing if they have not refined the rest of the GM mode settings/issues that they have not fixed since moving to next gen.

If all they have done to GM mode is add mid season contracts and expansion draft then I will be bitterly disappointed. They need to do a complete overhaul of the scouting system as well as all the other features they have yet to implement (ability to search players when on trade block, removing morale completely, a better potential system etc).

[Roger Neilsons Towel]

7 hours ago, Ursel23 said:

I watched the expansion draft trailer again and noticed that they've added the NMC (no movement clause) to players in the NHL that have that in their contracts. I wonder if this will be included in trading players or just for the expansion. 

Good question. Would like to know this as well. 

[MusclePharm]

Some news on the ratings

 

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-overall-rating-changes?utm_campaign=nhl18_hd_ww_ic_soco_twt_nhl18-ratingsreveal-ratingchanges-082317&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&cid=35076&ts=1503654015696

[Rush17]

I paid off my pre-order yesterday!~ So stoked :)))))))))D  

 

This nhl might actually be different then others.  I think the biggest surprise to me is the mid season contract extensions.  That to me is a very nice feature.  That way you can possibly ink players up before a big post season.  Adds an more realistic element to the franchise mode.  If you wait til the off season you might get burned; you might get a deal.  I really like that feature.  That new team mode is pretty cool though.  If i heard right you can setup a 32nd team and still play as the nux.  (protect your roster).  

 

pretty dope.

[Rush17]

9 hours ago, MusclePharm said:

Some news on the ratings

 

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-overall-rating-changes?utm_campaign=nhl18_hd_ww_ic_soco_twt_nhl18-ratingsreveal-ratingchanges-082317&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&cid=35076&ts=1503654015696

4th liners are actually going to be 4th liners? finally some significant distance between 3rd and 4th line players.  I always have basically 2 x 3rd lines. I hope the game forces you to keep an actual 4th line.

[Ursel23]

Brock Boeser rated 78 overall

 

... I don't like the ratings overhaul 

[Rush17]

On 23/08/2017 at 0:57 PM, Ursel23 said:

I watched the expansion draft trailer again and noticed that they've added the NMC (no movement clause) to players in the NHL that have that in their contracts. I wonder if this will be included in trading players or just for the expansion. 

interesting i missed that.  i hope they improve scouting and what i really hope they add... is if u draft a 17-18-19 year old as their age they have the ability to add some height and weight to their frame.  be nice to be able steal a player who is under weight or find a smaller guy u think will have q growth spurt. sounds comolex to program into the game but the realism would be amazing.

[Rush17]

On 23/08/2017 at 0:50 PM, Ursel23 said:

Has anyone heard anything about when EA Sports plans to release each teams player ratings ? Very curious to see who the Canucks top rated player is. 

i hope they don't release it. would only add more intrigue into the game. :D

[-Vintage Canuck-]

NHL 18 Ratings - Top 10 Goalies:

 

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Our NHL® 18 Player Ratings reveal kicks off with the top netminders in the NHL. We looked at a goalie's Reflexes, Puck Control, and Athletic ability when deciding their overall rating.

 

 

10. Cam Talbot – 87 overall

It took a year for him to adjust to a full-time starting role, but Cam Talbot has settled in with the Edmonton Oilers. Talbot’s a well-versed goaltender who boasts 4.5 star Reflexes, Athletics and Puck Control. Talbot is an excellent netminder who will be looking to backstop the Oilers into the playoffs for the second consecutive season.

 

 

9. Corey Crawford – 87 overall

From his ability to manage Angles (91) to his elite Vision (92), Corey Crawford continues to prove he’s a top goalie. The two-time Stanley Cup champion is as good in the clutch as any goalie with a (90) Poise rating.  

 

 

8. Tuukka Rask – 88 overall

Consistently near the top of our rankings, Tuukka Rask has been an excellent goalie for the Boston Bruins. His hybrid style mixed with his world-class Poise (91) and five-star Athletic abilities make him a tough test for any shooter.

 

 

7. Devan Dubnyk – 88 overall

At 6’6”, Devan Dubnyk is one of the tallest netminders in the league. He continues to be a steady stopper for the Minnesota Wild, with his height, Angles (91) and Vision (92) allowing him to stop attackers with ease.

 

 

6. Henrik Lundqvist – 88 overall

King Henrik, now 35, is on the tail end of his career and saw his play drop a bit last season. However, Lundqvist is still one of the best puck stoppers in the league and his Vision (91) and Angles (90) allow him to read the play to make crucial stops.

 

 

5. Matt Murray – 88 overall

Since storming onto the scene during the Pittsburgh Penguins 2015-16 Stanley Cup victory, Matt Murray has been one of the very best netminders in the NHL. After the Penguins’ 2016-17 Stanley Cup Championship last year, he became the only netminder in NHL history to win two Stanley Cups as a rookie. He’s one of the best at stopping high shots, boasting a Glove High (90) and Stick High (90).

 

 

4. Cory Schneider– 89 overall

There may not be a more positionally-sound goalie in the league than Cory Schneider. His excellent technique, positioning, Vision (92) and Angles (92) are a key to his success in stopping the puck. 

 

 

3. Sergei Bobrovsky – 89 overall

After an off year in 2015-16, Sergei Bobrovsky was back on the case last season. The 2017 Vezina Trophy winner posted an incredible 0.931 Save Percentage and was a key force in the Columbus Blue Jackets’ success last season. With two Vezina Trophies in the past five years, Bobrovsky has proven that he is one of the best goaltenders in the league. Bobrovsky is a very well-rounded goalie, with his Speed (91) and Agility (91) making him tough to beat anywhere. 

 

 

2. Braden Holtby – 90 overall

Holtby continues to be a brick wall for the Washington Capitals, posting his third consecutive straight 40+ win seasons. Last year, Holtby boasted an incredible 0.925 Save Percentage while leading the Capitals to their second consecutive Presidents’ Trophy. His Five Hole (91), Stick Low (91) and Glove Low (90) ratings mean that you’re going to need to elevate the puck if you want to beat the Holtbeast.

 

 

1. Carey Price – 92 overall

Carey Price could possibly be the most valuable player to any team. Price’s ability to put his team on his back and carry them through the regular season and playoffs is tough to match. From his positioning to his technique, Carey Price is always in the proper position to make a save and control rebounds. His Angles (93), Rebound Control (93) and Vision (93) rating are top in the league. Price is an excellent puck moving goaltender, boasting a (86) Passing rating. 

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-ratings-top-10-goalies

[-Vintage Canuck-]

NHL 18 Ratings - Top 10 Defenceman:

 

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Our NHL® 18 Player Ratings reveal continues with the top defensemen in the NHL. We looked at a defender's Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating, Senses, Defense and Physical abilities when deciding their overall rating.

 

 

10. Alex Pietrangelo – 88 overall

Alex Pietrangelo has slowly ascended into stardom with the St. Louis Blues. His strong two-way game is highlighted by his Defensive Awareness (92) and his 5-star Sense and Defense skills. Pietrangelo also contributes a strong offensive game with a quality shot and excellent Passing (90).

 

 

9. Roman Josi – 88 overall

The smooth-skating Nashville Predators blue liner delivers a powerful offensive punch from the blue line. Roman Josi's Passing (90), Puck Control (90) and Speed (90) allow him to weave his way up the ice while hitting teammates to create an opportunity on the breakout.

 

 

8. Kris Letang – 88 overall

The Pittsburgh Penguins' best defenseman can do it all. While Kris Letang is more known for his top-notch Puck Skills, Skating and Offensive Awareness (90), he is an excellent defender who knows where to position himself and can land a powerful hit onto an attacking player.

 

 

7. Shea Weber – 89 overall

You don't want to block a Shea Weber slap shot. With 95 Slap Shot Power, Weber's bullets from the point make him a dangerous player whenever he's on the ice. His ability to shut the opposition down with his raw Strength (93) and Body Checking (92) abilities make him one of the toughest players to play against in hockey.

 

 

6. Ryan Suter – 89 overall

Night in and night out, you can always count on Ryan Suter to play 25+ minutes a night of top-end defense. His Defensive Awareness (93), Stick Checking (91) and Shot Blocking (90) are an integral part of his game, thwarting the opposition at every opportunity. 

 

 

5. Duncan Keith – 90 overall

The Chicago Blackhawks continue to be led from Duncan Keith on the backend. From Keith's 5-star Puck Skills to his 5-star Defensive abilities, the defenseman continues to bring a strong two-way game. Keith also uses his Acceleration (92) and Agility (92) to either shutdown speedy attackers or blow past forecheckers to set up a rush.

 

 

4. Victor Hedman – 90 overall

The 6'6” Swedish defensemen continues to prove he's one of the NHL's best blue liners. Victor Hedman's excellent at shutting down his opposition with his Shot Blocking (93), Stick Checking (93) and Body Checking (90) skills. When he has the puck, Hedman can make crisp passes or unleash a massive shot from the point for a goal.

 

 

3. Brent Burns – 90 overall

The 2017 Norris Trophy winner had a season for the ages last year. Brent Burns scored 27 goals and led the league in shots. His ability to deliver a powerful Slap Shot (92) or a massive Body Check (90) is a key part to the San Jose Sharks' success.

 

 

2. Drew Doughty – 91 overall

Drew Doughty's two-way play is hard to beat. Drew Doughty's Offensive Awareness (94) allows him to control the pace of play offensively while is Defensive Awareness (94) gives him the ability to position himself properly to shut his opponents down with ease. 

 

 

1. Erik Karlsson – 91 overall

Erik Karlsson earns the #1 spot as NHL® 18's best defenseman. While the Ottawa Senators captain isn't the most physical defender, everything else about Karlsson's game is world-class. He has 5-star Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating, Sense and Defense abilities that allow him to dominate the game and drive play and offense for any team. Karlsson is a game breaker on the back end and one of the best offensive defensemen to ever play in the NHL.

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-ratings-top-10-defensemen

[-Vintage Canuck-]

NHL 18 Ratings - Top 10 Left Wings:

 

Quote

Our NHL® 18 Player Ratings reveal continues with the top left wingers in the NHL. We looked at a left wing's Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating, Senses, Defense and Physical abilities when deciding their overall rating.

 

 

10. Gabriel Landeskog – 85 overall

Gabriel Landeskog is a talented forward who doesn't shy away from the physical game. The Colorado Avalanche left wing's Strength (90) and 4.5-star Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating and Physical categories make him a tough player to check whenever he is on the ice.

 

 

9. Eric Staal – 85 overall

Eric Staal returned to his old form in his first year with the Minnesota Wild. Staal uses his size, Offenseive Awareness (89) and Defensive Awareness (89) to position himself for plays and generate offense for his team. His great Passing (88) ability allows him to set up teammates for tap-in finishes.

 

 

8. Filip Forsberg – 86 overall

The high-flying Filip Forsberg is a dynamic offensive talent that was a key part to the Nashville Predators Stanley Cup run last season. The Swedish left wing has incredible Puck Skills, often using his Deking (91) and Puck Control (91) to find the right attacking lanes to get to the net.

 

 

7. Artemi Panarin – 86 overall

Artemi Panarin is set to join the Columbus Blue Jackets after an off-season trade. The crafty Russian left winger boast some of the best Puck Skills in game with 93 Deking and 92 Puck Control. From his Skating to his Shooting to his Sense, Panarin's high talent level can change the game at any moment.

 

 

6. Max Pacioretty – 87 overall

If there's one thing you can expect the Montreal Canadiens captain to do, it's to consistently score 30 goals. Max Pacioretty is coming off of his fourth-straight 30+ goal season and is able to generate his goals through his 4.5-star Shooting, Skating, Puck Skills and Senses abilities. He carries an accurate yet heavy shot and the combination of his Speed (89) and Strength (88) can drive defenders crazy.

 

 

5. Johnny Gaudreau – 87 overall

At 5'9”, Johnny Gaudreau is one of the smallest players in the NHL. However, his 5-star Puck Skills, Skating and Senses makes him tough to check. The Calgary Flames forward is able to pull off magical moves with his Deking (95) abilities while using his world-class his Speed (93) and Agility (94).

 

 

4. Brad Marchand – 87 overall

While originally known for being a pest, Brad Marchand showed the hockey world that he can play with the best in the league last season. While Marchand's two-way play was integral to the Boston Bruins success, his Wrist Shot Accuracy (92) allows him to snipe goals past netminders with ease.

 

 

3. Taylor Hall – 87 overall

From his 5-star shooting abilities to his world-class Speed (95), Taylor Hall is one of the best scoring left wingers in hockey. His ability to use his powerful yet accurate shot on the rush allows the New Jersey Devils forward to sneak pucks past goaltenders frequently.

 

 

2. Jamie Benn – 90 overall

With 5-star Puck Skills, Senses and Shooting, Jamie Benn is one of the most talented scorers in hockey. When combined with his top-end Strength (90), Balance (90) and Puck Control (92) abilities, you get a dominant power forward that won't go down easily.

 

 

1. Alex Ovechkin – 92 overall

Alex Ovechkin is perhaps one of the best goal scorers in NHL history. On the power play, there might not be a better player to score. You know exactly where Ovi is going to be and the Washington Capitals feed him the puck to his spot where he uses his accurate (95) and powerful (95) Slap Shot. With five 5-star categories, Ovechkin's got a lot of tools in his arsenal to dominate the competition.

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-ratings-top-10-left-wings

[-Vintage Canuck-]

NHL 18 Ratings - Top 10 Right Wings:

 

Quote

Our NHL® 18 Player Ratings reveal continues with the top right wingers in the NHL. We looked at a right wing's Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating, Senses, Defense and Physical abilities when deciding their overall rating.

 

 

10. Phil Kessel – 86 overall

Phil Kessel is a two-time Stanley Cup Champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins and celebrated while eating hot dogs out of the Stanley Cup. With his elite Speed (93), Deking (93) and his 5-star shot, Phil “The Thrill” Kessel has a massive offensive punch that you'll want on your team.

 

 

9. Patrik Laine – 86 overall

Patrik Laine stormed onto the scene last year with a booming shot that can cleanly beat even the best of goalies. The 19 year-old recorded 36 goals for the Winnipeg Jets and his shot ranks amongst the best in the league. His Slap Shot Accuracy (92) and Slap Shot Power (92) are world-class already and makes him dangerous from any position.

 

 

8. Wayne Simmonds – 86 overall

One of the most well-rounded players in the league, Wayne Simmonds is a powerful force on the ice for the Philadelphia Flyers. His 4.5-star ratings in Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating, Defense and Physical make him a very versatile player in any lineup. His combination of Strength (89) and Speed (88) makes him extremely hard to knock off the puck.

 

 

7. Jakub Voracek – 87 overall

Jakub Voracek can create offense in a hurry for the Philadelphia Flyers. Voracek's elite Offensive Awareness (91) and Puck Control (91) allow him to make the proper choice between whether to use his 5-star shot or his excellent Passing (91) abilities to generate a scoring opportunity.

 

 

6. David Pastrnak – 87 overall

One of the best young stars in the NHL, David Pastrnak is able to create a highlight reel play out of any opportunity. The Boston Bruins right wing has world-class Puck Skills with 93 Deking, 92 Hand-Eye, 91 Passing and 92 Puck Control. When he gets past the defenders, he can use his 5-star shot to bury the puck past the goalie.

 

 

5. Blake Wheeler – 87 overall

Blake Wheeler is one of the more underrated players in the league. The deceptively-quick Winnipeg Jets right winger has excellent Shooting abilities and Puck Skills that compliment his Strength (90) to make Wheeler one of the best Power Forwards in the NHL. 

 

 

4. Joe Pavelski – 88 overall

Joe Pavelski, the San Jose Sharks captain, is one of the more versatile forwards in the NHL. While Pavelski is a right wing, he can play center and is strong on Faceoffs (85). Pavelski's 5-star Puck Skills and Defense abilities make him excellent in both ends of the ice. 

 

 

3. Nikita Kucherov – 89 overall

With Steven Stamkos out of the lineup, Nikita Kucherov bolted into the spotlight for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Kucherov's lightning quick Acceleration (93) and Agility (93) allow him to get up to his top Speed (92) instantly to rush past defenders. His 5-star Puck Skills and Offensive Awareness allows him to pick apart the defense to generate scoring chances and offense for his team.

 

 

2. Vladimir Tarasenko – 90 overall

The NHL® 17 cover athlete continued his terrific pace last year with the St. Louis Blues. Tarasenko's an elite talent who uses his Deking (94) to dangle his way past defenders on a nightly basis. With 5-star Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating and Senses, Tarasenko is one of the best pure offensive talents in the NHL.

 

 

1. Patrick Kane – 91 overall

When it comes to dynamic offensive talents, there may be no one better than Patrick Kane. Kane has world-class Puck Skills, where his Deking (97) and Puck Control (97) dazzle opposing defenders and goaltenders. The Chicago Blackhawks forward's ability to generate offense is a key part to the team's success year in and year out.

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-ratings-top-10-right-wings

[Ursel23]

84 for Bo...

78 for Boeser...

 

... after seeing all the ratings revealed so far I'm pretty disappointed.

[DollarAndADream]

34 minutes ago, Ursel23 said:

84 for Bo...

78 for Boeser...

 

... after seeing all the ratings revealed so far I'm pretty disappointed.

78 for Boeser probably makes sense. I'm sure his offensive attributes are pretty good, but he averages out lower. I mean, the guy has played 9 NHL games. Even with how well he played, I don't think you could throw an 80 his way.

[-Vintage Canuck-]

NHL 18 Ratings - Top 10 Centers:

 

Quote

Our NHL® 18 Player Ratings reveal continues with the top centers in the NHL. We looked at a center's Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating, Senses, Defense and Physical abilities when deciding their overall rating.

 

 

10. Jonathan Toews – 89 overall

One of the most clutch players in hockey, Jonathan Toews' Poise (95) is a key part to the Chicago Blackhawks success. His 5-star Puck Skills, Senses and Defense make him a versatile two-way forward who you'll want on the ice to either shutdown the opponents or score a clutch goal late in the game.

 

 

9. Tyler Seguin – 89 overall

Ever since coming into the league, Tyler Seguin has displayed some of the best Puck Skills in hockey. His 94 Deking, Hand-Eye, Passing and Puck Control allow him to consistently set his teammates up for scoring opportunities. However, if you respect the Dallas Stars center's passing ability too much he will burn you with his 5-star shot.

 

 

8. Ryan Getzlaf – 89 overall

While Ryan Getzlaf may not be the fastest skater, his Strength (92), Balance (92) and Puck Control (92) make him extremely hard to knock off the puck. The 6'4” Anaheim Ducks captain uses his size to his advantage to set up his teammates in the offensive zone or to drive to the net to create an opportunity for himself.

 

 

7. Patrice Bergeron – 89 overall

Patrice Bergeron can do it all. Bergeron's Faceoffs (95) allow him to instantly gain control of the puck to generate offense for his team. His Defense skills are some of the best in hockey, and his ability to shutdown his opponents while generating offense makes the Boston Bruins forward the best two-way center in hockey.

 

 

6. Nicklas Backstrom – 89 overall

Nicklas Backstrom is one of best passing playmakers in the league. Backstrom's Passing (95) and Offensive Awareness (94) allow him to hit his teammates with passes few other players could do. The Washington Capitals center plays at an elite level in all areas of the ice and is the perfect quarterback on a powerplay.

 

 

5. John Tavares – 90 overall

The New York Islanders captain is an extremely talented center who does every part of the game at a top end level. Tavares' Puck Skills are some of the best in the league and his ability to finish plays with his accurate Wrist Shot (94) is a key to his success. 

 

 

4. Steven Stamkos – 91 overall

When Steven Stamkos is healthy, he's one of the best pure goal scorers in the league. His Speed (93) allows him to generate offense off the rush where he can unleash a powerful, accurate shot past the opposing netminder. The Tampa Bay Lightning center can also use his 5-star Puck Skills to set up scoring chances for himself or a teammate.

 

 

3. Evgeni Malkin – 92 overall

One of the NHL's most elite offensive talents, Evgeni Malkin's 5-star Puck Skills, Shooting, Skating and Senses makes him a threat to score any time he hits the ice. Malkin's Balance (94), Deking (94) and Puck Control (95) allow him to weave his way through defenders for highlight reel plays every game for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

 

 

2. Sidney Crosby – 93 overall

Back-to-back Stanley Cups and back-to-back Conn Smythe trophies as playoff MVP speak to just how dominant Sidney Crosby is. The Pittsburgh Penguins captain uses his Strength (90) and Puck Control (95) to protect the puck from opponents that allow him to set up a teammate backdoor for a scoring chance or snipe a shot past a goaltender.

 

 

1. Connor McDavid – 93 overall

In his first full season, Connor McDavid tore the league apart with his world-class Speed (96), Puck Control (96), Deking (96) and Offensive Awareness (97). The 2016-17 NHL MVP was the only player to reach 100 points last season and carried the Edmonton Oilers to their first post-season appearance in over a decade. McDavid is a game breaker that you'll want to have on your team.

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-ratings-top-10-centers

[Ursel23]

2 hours ago, -Vintage Canuck- said:

NHL 18 Ratings - Top 10 Centers:

 

https://www.easports.com/nhl/news/2017/nhl-18-player-ratings-top-10-centers

Sure Mcdavid is amazing... but to have him the #1 player in the game...? That still should only belong to Crosby. Back to back cups, conn Smythes, World Cup, World Cup MVP, rocket richard... in comparison to oh my... Mcdavid got the Oilers into the playoffs.

and the top rated player only rated a 93? Come on man!