Craig Custance of ESPN participated in an online chat this afternoon...

How in the world are the Tampa Bay Lightning leading the entire Atlantic division right now?

Craig Custance They're finally getting some goaltending to go with Stamkos and St. Louis. I have to say, I was suspect with the signing of Filppula but he's impressed people in Tampa with his veteran, complete game. He's a pro and has been a nice fit in Tampa. Jon Cooper continues to win everywhere he goes, you have to give early credit to him too and the wolfpack mentality he tries to instill in his teams.

What teams are interested in Ryan Miller and what are the Sabres going to look for in return? The Isles made a bad trade in my opinion gave up way to much for Vanek when he is to me a small upgrade from Moulson.

Craig Custance Doesn't sound like there was a ton of active conversations right now regarding Miller. It's so tough to trade a goalie, simply because there are only 30 starting jobs. So, in this case, you need to find a fit where a team needs a starting goalie, has the cap space and is willing to move the necessary assets to get Miller. Oh yeah, they can't be on his no-trade list either. It's not an easy proposition.

Many people have picked the Canucks to finish near the bottom of their division before the season started. Some even picked them to miss the playoffs. Are you surprise as the way they have been playing?

Craig Custance Yeah, i am surprised. Tough to transition to a new coach and immediately have success. And they don't have the depth up front that some of those powerhouse Canucks teams did in the past. But this is the ideal start for Tortorella who will get more buy-in from his guys because of the start. I still like the Sharks and Kings better in that division but Canucks have been impressive.

much more...