THE GROUP OF SEVEN

This might be the best idea the NHL has had since the Winter Classic. Created as a response to Covid-19 mandated border restrictions, the league’s all-new North Division pits Canada’s seven teams against one another exclusively for this shortened season. And hockey fans are here for it.

It’s not just the chance to enhance rivalries that has everyone on board. It’s the potential for offense … and lots of it. Consider this: Last season, Winnipeg was the only team in the new division to finish in the top half of the league in goals-against, and they finished 12th. Meanwhile, Vancouver ranked 21st, Toronto 26th and Ottawa 30th. Add in some of the game’s most explosive stars and the North is set up for the most wide-open, offensive hockey action we’ve seen since the 1980s. at’s good news for the game and the hobby.

“There’s going to be a frantic pace to this division,” said SportsNet’s Ray Ferraro. “ese games look like track meets … full of high-danger chances.”

High-scoring action isn’t the only reason the hobby’s eyes will be on the North Division. is will be the only grouping to feature teams in four different time zones. In terms of exposure, it’s a clear win for the league and collectors. In essence, it means more Eastern prime-time exposure for Western-based superstars like Connor McDavid, Elias Pettersson, Leon Draisaitl, Patrik Laine and others. e value in having fans in Montreal and Toronto watch the likes of McDavid in action eight times a year instead of twice is exponential.

It all sets up as a massive opportunity for the hobby.

Here are the seven players who’ll benefit the most from this northern exposure.