Chippy Chiclets had a disappointing out in this years Challenge Cup playoffs. Edmonton was predicted to turn a corner after a lengthy rebuild this season, but some offseason acquisitions skyrocketed their potential and Chippy was laser focused on reaching their ceiling. However, Chippy had a rough go of it, barely touching the scoreboard and struggling in the biggest games so far of his career. After the exit, Chippy devoted himself back to the gym. According to the sophomore defenseman, there are no off days. So he decided to hit the gym for workouts and develop his strength, a major weakness to his game. His goal is to shore up his game, and to become a defensive powerhouse for the Edmonton Blizzard next year. Additionally, he took some time for himself, grabbing a great dinner with his lady friend and celebrating the steps to success he took this year with his family in tow.



I believe that the unsung hero of this years Challenge Cup Playoffs is Sophia Bennett of the Los Angeles Panthers. Bennett might be a little too high profile to be an unsung hero, but I still believe that she gets overshadowed unfairly on her team and that her contributions really pushed Los Angeles' team forward this season. In the playoffs, Sophia Bennett put up 8 goals and 7 assists for 15 points in 16 games. This type of point production was necessary for Los Angeles to keep their offense on track. Bennett peppered shots on goal, keeping opposing goaltenders on their toes. She had a whopping 73 shots these playoffs. Additionally, Bennett was responsible defensively, posting a +7 rating. I believe that Sophia Bennett's play was a driving force behind Los Angeles' playoff run this year. Without Sophia Bennett on the offense for the Panthers, they likely would not have seen the same success that they saw this season and these playoffs.



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I believe that the Los Angeles Panthers need Matthew Leetch to have a strong finals to lift the cup at the end of the series. Leetch has been very responsible defensively, posting a +7 rating. However, his contributions to the offense, including 13 assists, have been the difference maker for Los Angeles in their prior bouts these playoffs. Leetch will need to find that balance between offense and defense, because on defense he really is the foundation of a strong corps, while on offense his transition game is necessary to reduce the burden on their strong forwards. I don't think that Los Angeles will have any issues scoring goals, but they need a strong defense in order to topple Minnesota and take the Challenge Cup.

Terrance Nova needs to continue his dominance for Minnesota to have a strong chance to lift the Challenge Cup. Nova has 19 points in 15 games and an extraordinary shooting percentage higher than 16%. Additionally, Nova has displayed discipline by avoiding the penalty box during the entire playoff run. Nova needs to continue his powerplay dominance and responsible play to lead Minnesota to the win this postseason.