Brad Hayden

Arena: McDonald Arena (Seating Capacity: 12,682)

Asst GM: Donny Azoff

Coach: Anton Chigurh

2003-2004, 2005-2006, 2008-2009, 2017-2018, 2022-2023, 2023-2024, 2024-2025

Seven time Palucci Cup champion

Acquired Picks: Cobra 3rd round pick (2025-26)

Leila Erb 1976-2025

The Little Lopezers mourn the loss of our organization's matriarch and dedicate our future performance to her immortal spirit.
We miss you Smalley❤️

Little Lopezers

On September 20, 2016, the hockey world was rocked by a major shift as The Duck Hunters sold a majority stake to outside investors, rebranding themselves as The Little Lopezers. Speculation has been rife that Mr. Ernesto Rivas, the dynamic figure associated with the Montreal Knee High P.I.s, is among the investors. Rumors suggest he could become the majority shareholder and possibly overhaul the entire staff.

In the midst of these sweeping changes, the competitive landscape continues to evolve. Recent trade moves have stirred discussions among hockey enthusiasts. Mr. Hayden, in a strategic maneuver, traded Henrik Zetterberg and a 3rd round pick (Marian Hossa) to secure The Knee High P.I.s’ 1st round pick. That pick led to the acquisition of what many consider one of the top goaltenders in the league, Henrik Lundqvist. While some might view the trade as Zetterberg and Hossa for Lundqvist, Mr. Hayden himself has suggested that it played a pivotal role in shaping his drafting strategy, ultimately helping him secure Joe Thornton. Regardless of perspective, the trade appears to have been beneficial for both sides.

Despite these developments, the looming threat posed by The Little Lopezers cannot be understated. However, there are whispers of a potential decline. Although Mr. Hayden is renowned for his strategic draft choices and meticulous player evaluations, some doubt his ability to secure a three-peat. The enduring legacy of The Knee High P.I.s, tracing back to the era of Brother Hesekiah and their storied tradition, seems unmatched by the McDonald family’s current efforts. In a dramatic turn of events, a recent recruitment episode highlights the shifting tides of power. The Duck Hunters had a verbal agreement with a talented, rugged defenseman named Robert, who is also known for his musical skills on the keyboard. The deal seemed imminent until a chance encounter changed everything. Stepping outside for fresh air, Robert saw a rival in a tuxedo, symbolizing success and grandeur. Inspired by the vision of numerous Stanley Cups, Robert opted to sign with the rival team for the league minimum—$1.

As The Little Lopezers prepare to embark on this new chapter, the landscape of professional hockey is poised for significant shifts. With Mr. Ernesto Rivas potentially at the helm and strategic moves redefining team dynamics, the season ahead promises to be one of high stakes and transformative changes. The enduring legacy of past franchises will be tested against the fresh ambitions of a newly rebranded and reinvigorated team.

Prediction for 2025-26: 3rd Place

Protected Players 2025-26

Round Player
1
2
3 /
4
5
6
7 Jacob Markstrom / Pyotr Kochetkov
8
9
10
11 *** TRADED PICK TO TEAM DWARF
12 Martin Necas / Will Smith
13
14 Brandon Hagel
15 Dylan Guenther
16
17
18
19
20

Drafted Players 2025-26

Round Player Team Traded To On Dropped On
1 Kirill Kaprizov Min
2 David Pastrnak Bos
3 Mikko Rantanen Dal
3 Brady Tkatchuk Ott
4 Jake Oettinger Dal
5 Nick Suzuki Mtl
6 Adam Fox NYR
7 Jacob Markstrom NJ
7 Pyotr Kochetkov Car
8 Tim Stutzle Ott
9 Jackson Lacombe Anh
10 J.T. Miller NYR
11 *** TRADED PICK TO TEAM DWARF
12 Martin Necas Col
12 Will Smith SJ
13 Lukas Dostal Anh
14 Brandon Hagel TB
15 Dylan Guenther Uta
16 Matthew Schaefer NYI
17 Brandon Montour Sea
18 ** Brock Faber Min Oct 12
19 Matthew Knies Tor
20 Adam Fantilli Clb
** Indicates dropped player during regular or off season