NHL All-Star Game: Building an all New York/New Jersey team
Coach
The coach of the Empire Division All-Stars:
- John Hynes (Devils)
If this were a list of who has done the best job since last All-Star game, the Isles’ Doug Weight would get the nod.
However, this year, what Hynes has done is unmatched.
His Devs are the best team in the NY/NJ market right now despite being young. He might lead the Devs to the playoffs this year but they are built to contend very soon.
With the Rangers depleted and underachieving, Alain Vigneault should not be the coach despite being the most successful historically. In 2018, with this star-studded Empire team, it should be John Hynes calling the shots and setting the lineups.
Bench Player
The game on Sunday will not have a bench player title so this is for even more fun.
The Empire All-Stars bench player:
- Anders Lee (Islanders)
There were some worthy candidates to fill this spot. But you can’t spell Islanders without “Anders.” Lee is a top goal scorer in all the NHL. His grit around the net and ability to drive it home puts him on this list.
Watching him with his fellow linesman, Tavares and Bailey, on a big stage is something everyone needs to see.
Next: Former NY Giants Who'd Be Great In XFL
That completes the Empire All-Star team. The best players in the entire market right now. Who would you have on your team of New York/New Jersey All-Stars? Let us know in the comments.