Welcome to the PHT Morning Skate, a collection of links from around the hockey world. Have a link you want to submit? Email us at phtblog@nbcsports.com.
• Guy Boucher isn’t worrying about his contract situation heading into the 2018-19 season. (The Score)
• Nico Hischier was the man of the moment playing in front of his home country. (NHL.com)
• Want some bold predictions to go along with that bold coffee this morning? (TSN)
• Speaking of predictions, here’s some for the league’s best rookie title. (Last Word on Hockey)
• Speed -- it’s what turns NHL teams into contenders these days. (Toronto Star)
• TSN went and did an NHL 19 simulation to determine the next Stanley Cup champion... 30 fanbases (and most of Canada) won’t be happy. (TSN)
• Five players who could break out this coming season. (The Canadian Press)
• The most spiteful season preview you will read ahead of this season. (Deadspin)
• New Amsterdam Vodka breaking into the big leagues with NHL deal. (AdAge)
• There’s another level for Frederik Andersen to reach. (Sportsnet)
• Who’s the best player on each team now, and who will be the best player on that team in four years? (ESPN)
• Can’t put the controller down in NHL 19? Here’s how to build the best Hockey Ultimate Team. (Real Sport 101)
• Radim Vrbata retired on Monday after 16 season in the NHL. (TSN)
Scott Billeck is a writer for Pro Hockey Talk on NBC Sports. Drop him a line at phtblog@nbcsports.com or follow him on Twitter @scottbilleck