Hockey Night in Canada's Kevin Weekes takes a look at how Canada's NHL teams are faring in the Western Conference.

During my playing days, I spent the better part of 14 years living in the United States during the hockey season, and it's been interesting to witness that country making huge strides in the growth of the sport.

From traditional hockey markets like New York and New Jersey, to non-traditional ones like Florida and North Carolina, the game of hockey has evolved dramatically.

Let me be the first one to say that last season I was raving about the Colorado Avalanche as an example of how to rebuild an NHL franchise.  Good drafting, successful development, smart free-agent signings, some good veterans and perhaps the most elusive ingredient, powerful chemistry that both players and coaches could feel.  It oozed from them.

The intensity of the feeling was tangible when you visited their locker-room.  Having covered two of their regular-season games as well as the first-round playoff scare they gave San Jose, it was easy to get a clear image of this team, their organizational culture and most importantly, their sense of direction.

"These guys just play for the paycheque!"

"It's just a game, why do they get paid so much?"

"I'd play this game for free!"

I'm sure you've heard these statements, maybe even thought them. I vividly remember hearing my guidance counsellors and teachers saying these things to me, and hearing them discussed during class debates.

You asked and Kevin Weekes answered. See what the Hockey Night in Canada analyst and former NHL veteran had to say about the Islanders coaching change and the best Canadian city to play in.

There's no denying the depth in the NHL's Western Conference. Teams know that they have to be close to their best every night to have a chance because they can't bluff their way to wins on the left side of the NHL landscape.

I see so many parents and coaches in minor hockey making the age-old mistake: "Put Joey or Jenny in net, they can't skate!" They couldn't be any more off base!

You asked and Kevin Weekes answered. See what the Hockey Night in Canada analyst and former NHL veteran had to say about the Leafs, goalie injuries and anthems.

The 2010-11 NHL season is upon us and there are so many things to be excited about. 

It was really fun to cover the San Jose-Colorado series because many experts and fans thought it wouldn't be much of a contest, but they ended up being treated to a six-game surprise.