If he happens to be on the road with the Toronto Rock, Phil Caputo knows he can rely on the NHL Network to keep him up to date.



Michael Kussmann, after another day of substitute teaching in Brampton, Ont., tunes into games at home in his living room, no matter how late.



And if the Rochester Institute of Technology Tigers aren’t on the ice, Gabe Valenzuela gathers with teammates and settles in front of the nearest television.



Think you’re captivated by Sean Monahan’s game?



You’ve got nothing on these guys, childhood chums of the Calgary Flames’ standout.



They played hockey with Monahan. They played lacrosse with him.



They howled at his wisecracks. They were victimized by his pranks.



They grew up with him.



And now? They watch him — closely always, rattled occasionally.



Sure, Monahan is a well-established NHLer after nearly six years of service. Yes, the tight-knit band of...