Bleacher Report - Articles by Rafal Ladysz

Martin Havlat Leads by Example in Chicago

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:33:35 -0400

Persistence is the key when dealing with repeated injuries. You don't have to tell Martin Havlat how disappointing and frustrating they are. Ottawa's 26th overall draft pick in 1999 played at least 67 games in his first four seasons with the Senators.

Following the NHL lockout, everyone was pleased that hockey had returned. For the Czech native, it hadn't nearly been as joyous. Havlat went on to play 18, 56, and 35 games in three years for the Senators and Chicago Blackhawks due to constant injury troubles.

He was extremely effective while on the ice. The problem was that he couldn't remain healthy for an extended period of time. Due to these injury-filled campaigns, Havlat was a massive question mark heading into 2008/2009.

The 27-year-old played 81 games, scored 29 goals, set new career-highs in assists (48), points (77) and plus/minus (29). On a team featuring young superstars Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, it was Havlat who led the team in scoring during the regular season.

Considering the fact that the Blackhawks lost 21 of the 30 games he failed to produce a point in, it's an understatement to say his contributions were necessary.

Offensive capabilities, marvelous speed, and dogged determination become useless if one can't remain healthy. At last, Havlat had proved to Chicago he could remain 100 percent physically.

Then, the playoffs arrived and the Blackhawks would be involved for the first time since 2001/2002. Along with Havlat, the entire team was now a question mark due to their lack of postseason experience.

Fortunately, the team finished fourth in the Western Conference and would match up against the Calgary Flames. Because Chicago swept the four-game season series, it was a draw they couldn't dislike.

As we all know, hockey at this time of the year is much different. Despite Calgary's three consecutive first-round exits since their Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2004, the team's players had been there and done that for the most part.

Only 10 of the Blackhawks’ players had previous postseason experience entering this first-round series. Aside from Nikolai Khabibulin, Havlat saw the most playoff action from his days with the Senators.

Down 2-1 late in the third period, Calgary appeared to be heading towards a 1-0 lead in the series. Chicago needed a hero.

They got it.

Havlat fired a shot that Miikka Kiprusoff handled. However, the Finnish goaltender allowed a rebound and the veteran pounced on it to tie the game with 5:33 remaining in regulation.

Overtime would follow and another individual would generate the heroics. Or so we thought.

Dave Bolland knocked down a clearing attempt and dropped the puck to Havlat inside the blue line. Skating into the high slot, he fired a wrist shot past Kiprusoff with Andrew Ladd causing traffic.

The first overtime period of these playoffs lasted all of 12 seconds and the Blackhawks achieved a victory that had been craved for seven years. It was the third-fastest overtime goal in playoff history bested by two others that occurred prior to the 1990's.

For young players making their postseason debut, the first game is normally considered the toughest. Chicago worked hard for the victory and could easily build off of it for their remaining contests.

Toews may be the captain, but Martin Havlat has guided this team the entire year with his offensive flair.

Game One was no exception.

Sidney Crosby Matures as a Player and Captain

Rafal Ladysz — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:15:58 -0400

He had 102 points as a rookie. A 120-point sophomore season, which saw him capture the Art Ross, Hart Memorial Trophy, and the Lester B. Pearson Award.

How does one come to despise a player of such merit? Attitude is the answer—a factor which can elevate your status, or drag it down with equal ease.

Sidney Crosby entered the NHL with much excitement surrounding him in 2005/2006 as the first overall pick. Owners believed this was their new face for the league.

Although his abilities met everyone's expectations, there were two elements preventing him from being seen as the very best in the eyes of all.

First, he had Russian phenomenon Alexander Ovechkin, who won the Calder Trophy ahead of him as the league's top rookie. Not only that, Ovechkin's style was viewed as more entertaining and encouraging than Crosby's.

Ovechkin was a more physical player who wasn't afraid to go after anyone. Crosby, on the other hand, had an aggressive nature as noticeable as his playoff beard.

Second, many coaches, players and fans saw the Pittsburgh center as a diver who constantly complained to the officials. This reputation has stuck with Crosby throughout his young career and forgetting it may prove challenging with a nickname like Sid the Kid.

Fast track to last season. The Penguins took on the Boston Bruins in late December and Crosby achieved his first Gordie Howe hat trick. Statistics may not have been as relevant as the fact that the Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia native was fighting Andrew Ference.

Considered a rare spectacle, the fight was handled properly, as both combatants threw good punches and competed fairly.

Now, let's have a look at our current season. Crosby was involved in two skirmishes. An early January meeting with the Florida Panthers concluded with a 6-1 defeat and the captain jumping Brett McLean from the face-off circle.

Negative one. McLean wasn't prepared to square off. He had his jersey interfering with his vision, while Crosby had a visor protecting half of his face (not that he needed it with McLean blindsided).

Prior to that, he had punched Atlanta Thrasher's defenseman Boris Valabik numerous times in the sensitive area in a December matchup. If that wasn't humorous enough, Crosby received only a two-minute minor for roughing.

Negative two. Never do you aim for the undercarriage. To make matters worse, Valabik was engaged in a scuffle with Kris Letang when Crosby decided to take matters into his own hands—literally.

Actions like these made it all the more easier to choose Ovechkin as the NHL's premier superstar.

Side note: Isn't it ironic that the 2004/2005 season was cancelled and as a result, Ovechkin was forced to wait for his rookie campaign to occur the following year along with Crosby's? It wouldn't be a stretch to suggest that these two game-breakers were meant to go head-to-head.

Many made the argument that Crosby was finally embracing his role as team leader and finally getting involved in the rough business. Life is full of variety and Sid chose to get involved in each affair the wrong way.

Is there really an excuse for swinging at someone's genitals?

As time shows, you learn from your mistakes. Last month, Pittsburgh and Boston squared off at the Mellon Arena. The following incident somehow managed to get away from the cameras, but plenty of sources have revealed its authenticity.

Boston's center Marc Savard taunted Crosby after scoring a goal. When the 21-year-old approached the Bruins' playmaker to fight, he insisted that it would be his pleasure, once the visor was removed.

Crosby handed his helmet to equipment manager Dana Heinze and told him to unscrew the shield. Having called his bluff, Savard continued to back down from a visorless Sid.

Positive one. Crosby did the right thing by getting rid of the visor, indicating that he is courageous and willing to fight properly. He didn't attack Savard when he was looking the other way or test the strength of his cup.

It's good to see No. 87 finding an edge to his game because it shows his ability to be an agitator, which suits him better than the golden boy label. I know I would prefer the recent Crosby over his rookie self.

This also poses a question: If Sid continues to display this newly-found attitude, will Ovechkin remain superior to him? You'll always get more goals from the Russian and plenty of playmaking from Crosby.

However, now both have a bit of a combative nature to their competitiveness. Alexander Ovechkin will never cease throwing body checks.

Will Sidney Crosby get into the faces of opposing players on a regular basis?

Only time will tell.

One thing is certain: He would be the most talented agitator in NHL history.

Tennis Players Who Changed the Game: Anna Kournikova

Rafal Ladysz — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 15:01:40 -0400

In any sport, there is that one figure who is able to fill the seats in stadiums and create a new fanbase. Wayne Gretzky, Michael Jordan, and Diego Maradona are the obvious examples.

Nobody brought more of a celebrity status to the game of tennis than Anna Kournikova. That's not to say that she wasn't a talented player, even as a young girl.

Just 14 years old when debuting in professional tennis, she was the youngest player ever to participate in and win the Fed Cup for Russia. Kournikova made her grand slam debut in 1996 at the U.S. Open.

Reaching the fourth round, eventual champion Steffi Graf eliminated the 15-year-old. Named the WTA Newcomer of the Year in 1996, the Russian finished the season ranked No. 57.

Kournikova had another tremendous run at a major tournament in 1997, which was at Wimbledon. She reached the semifinals where she was defeated by Martina Hingis, who also went on to win the title.

Joining Chris Evert, she became the second woman in the open era to reach the semifinals of her Wimbledon debut. It was in 1998 that she broke into the top 20 as the 16th ranked player.

Partnering with a number of different women in doubles competition, Kournikova had also reached the No. 10 rank in that category. By the end of 1999, she was the top ranked player in doubles competition and 12th best in singles.

That year, she won her first Grand Slam title in women's doubles with Hingis. The two were named Doubles Team of the Year by the WTA. Although she had been ranked as high as No. 8 in singles, her greatest success came in doubles.

She re-lived victory at the 2002 Australian Open in doubles with Hingis. Shockingly enough, this was her final title in doubles and she had never won a singles major in her career.

Today, she still competes in exhibition matches for charitable causes, but hasn't played on the WTA Tour since 2003.

Kournikova possessed tremendous foot speed and aggressive baseline play. She had the ability to create angles and drop shots. However, her serve was inconsistent at times in singles and her ground strokes produced many errors.

Unsurprisingly, her style is more fitting for doubles play, as she is reliable at the net and is assisted by her height.

Outside of tennis, Kournikova had plenty of attention for various reasons.

During her debut at the U.S Open in 1996, the world got a first look at her jaw-dropping beauty and numerous magazines published her pictures. Sports Illustrated, Maxim Magazine, and FHM have all featured her photographs at some point in time.

In four separate years (1998, 2000, 2002, 2003), she was named one of People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People. FHM placed her in first for their 100 Sexiest Women in the World feature in 2002.

Her personal life was also a point of interest for the public as rumours swirled around that she was married to hockey stars Pavel Bure and Sergei Fedorov on separate occasions.

Today, she is the current spokesperson for K-Swiss and has affiliations with Yonex as well.

So, while Steffi Graf and Martina Navratilova had won countless championships, Kournikova generated publicity that was unheard of in tennis prior to her arrival.

She brought a different lifestyle to the game and popularised the sport. Anna Kournikova is possibly the most popular female athlete in the world.

That's one way of making an impact.

Martina Navratilova

Margaret Court Smith

Boris Becker

Andrei Arshavin: Born To Be a Gunner

Rafal Ladysz — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 12:40:14 -0400

Arsene Wenger has always emphasized an attacking style among his players. Although it lacks the finish at times, there's no denying the entertainment and success his strategy brings to Arsenal.

The Emirates Stadium is a place many dream of playing, but only a select few are granted the privilege. In Russia, there was a footballer who had all of the attributes that Wenger desires when searching for new talent.

A man who could add to the Cesc Fabregas', Robin Van Persie's and Samir Nasri's. That man was Andrei Arshavin. Graduating out of the 'Smena' Football Academy, he made his first-team debut in 2000 for Zenit St Petersburg.

Arshavan displayed the ability to perform as a winger, playmaker and striker all with equal efficiency. This earned him the Player of the Season Award in the Russian Premier League that year.

With much of media and fan attention going towards the English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and Bundesliga, many still didn't know who Andrei Arshavin was.

A few months can change everything. First, he guided Zenit to the Russian League title in 2007, contributing 10 goals and 11 assists along the way. However, it was the international stage where Arshavin displayed his superb potential to a wider audience.

Euro 2008 was the tournament. Serving a suspension, he was unable to compete in Russia's opening two group matches. His debut came in the final group contest which was against Sweden.

The 27-year-old buried the Swedes by setting up Roman Pavlyuchenko's opening strike and scoring one of his own in the second half. In the quarterfinals, a Holland side that had easily disposed of France, Italy and Romania in Group C awaited.

Arshavin hadn't lost his magic and was the hero once again. With the score levelled 1-1 in extra time, he provided a lovely cross for Dmitri Torbinski to tap in easily on the goal-line.

A few minutes later, he added another goal to give Russia a comfortable 3-1 win and eliminated a Holland squad that many had fancied go all the way. Declared Man of the Match in both games, Arshavin's heroics were lost in the semifinals as Spain cruised to a 3-0 victory.

UEFA included him in their Euro 2008 Squad for his inspirational performances. Returning to Zenit St Petersburg, Arshavin was once again Man of the Match in the UEFA Cup final victory.

A number of Europe's top clubs were interested in acquiring him, in particular for his displays with the Russian national team. Arsenal declared Arshavin as their newest member on Feb. 2 and his first goal in mid-March was one to remember against Blackburn.

Denilson sent an excellent pass to the Russian, who side-stepped Danny Simpson and lifted a shot over Paul Robinson from a seemingly impossible angle. Along with the goal, Arshavin has added six assists in all competitions.

Seemingly fitting in perfectly, he is six assists shy of Van Persie's club-leading 10. Passing it would be quite the accomplishment considering Arshavin has only been in the EPL for two months.

While some players get a fortunate chance to play for a club such as Arsenal, others don't quite fit into Wenger's agenda.

Andrei Arshavin was born for it.

Evgeni Malkin Eyeing Art Ross, Montreal Canadiens at a Loss

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:59:53 -0400

Both the Western and Eastern Conference playoff races haven't loosened up much. All it takes is one day for a team to jump back into contention with one win. It's certainly the most exciting time of the regular season and it may come down to the last day.

Another year of hockey flies by. May the best team hold the Stanley Cup come June.

HOT

Quietly but steadily, Evgeni Malkin is inching closer to an Art Ross Trophy and possibly a Hart Memorial to go along with it.

A memorable five-point night against Atlanta got him started and the Russian finished the week with eight points (three goals, five assists) in three games. There's no denying Malkin has been the best of the bunch in 2008/2009.

The strongest former Russian Five member is undoubtedly Vyacheslav Kozlov. The 36-year-old totalled seven points (three goals, four assists) this week for a Thrashers team that is building for next season.

If he continues his strong play, 1,000 points in his career shouldn't be out of the question.

It was a long and hard-fought battle, but Joel Ward finally found an NHL home in the Nashville Predators after many years of minor league hockey.

Ward has been one of the team's more reliable secondary scorers and his three-game scoring streak assisted the Predators' playoff aspirations.

Sitting on 41 goals, Zach Parise has nine games remaining to possibly reach 50. The Minneapolis, Minnesota native was more about the assists this week with five along with one goal. If he can't reach 50 goals, 100 points is still within his grasp.

Daniel Alfredsson isn't one to quit playing even when the season is over for his team. The Ottawa Senators captain contributed seven points (two goals, five assists) leading to four straight wins.

Seven points out of eighth place may be too much to overcome and it these performances may be too little, too late.

For the first time this year, hot or not is introducing Sam Gagner in this section. Having been in a sophomore slump for the majority of the season, the 19-year-old saved his best hockey for the stretch-drive.

Gagner scored four goals and added two assists, including his first ever hat-trick in Colorado.

On countless occasions, we've seen Shane Doan play superior hockey. Sadly, his team hasn't been able to resemble his intensity on the ice.

The captain scored three goals and dished out four assists which led to two victories. Had it not been for Doan, it may have been nothing but defeats for the Coyotes in their four games.

There are no guarantees in life, but the Columbus Blue Jackets should reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.

Also, Steve Mason is deservingly going to win the Calder Trophy without a doubt. The 20-year-old has won five of his last six starts and this group could make some noise come April.

Led by Cam Ward in goal, Carolina continues to play strong hockey and should be in top eight when the season concludes.

Including today's overtime victory, Ward has won four straight and is looking like the guy who carried the Hurricanes to Stanley Cup glory in 2005/2006.

Victories in Ottawa usually are the result of brilliant displays by Jason Spezza. He will most likely finish this season with his lowest point total since the lockout ended, but Spezza's nine-game point streak indicates he still has the ability to change the course of a game.

NOT

100 reasons for a bad season may be the title of the book that chronicles the Canadiens' 2008/2009 year. The list of issues that have taken place is endless.

Andrei Kostitsyn has gone pointless in five games and has just two points in his last 13 games. Don't worry Sergei, your brother could join you in the AHL very soon.

For nearly all of February, Pavel Kubina was on fire. Now, the Maple Leaf defender has gone cold with one point in his last eight contests. Toronto has managed to win three of four even still which is good news.

What happens if Mike Green succumbs to injury? Tom Poti was expected to be the second line of offense from the blue line in Washington but it hasn't panned out that way. Nagged by injuries, Poti has just 13 points in 47 games for the Capitals this year.

Losing 8-1 to Edmonton is one way of grabbing attention. Colorado hasn't received much out of Marek Svatos who has reached 50 points once in his career.

Pointless in four, the Slovakian will be lucky to hit 40 in what has been a terrible season for the Avalanche.

A sight you won't seen very often is Ales Hemsky in the not section. The first line is struggling in Edmonton, as the Czech forward continues to find a regular partner on a line.

One point in five games isn't a major slump, but for a player the calibre of Hemsky, it can be classified that way.

Three consecutive losses have Marty Turco in familiar icy territory. His numbers continues to suffer and Dallas' injury woes aren't making the battle any easier. The .897 save percentage speaks wonder on its own.

As Florida hits a bit of a bump in their playoff surge, Cory Stillman has also begun to struggle. The veteran has two points in his last eight games after piling up points regularly following a concussion.

If the Panthers are to achieve a spot in the top eight, Stillman will have to bring his best in these final games.

Buffalo Sabres Don't Deserve Playoff Hockey

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:49:06 -0400

If ever there was an enigma team in the NHL this season, it would have to be the Buffalo Sabres.

A team that bears exquisite offensive potential. A team with the longest tenured coach in Lindy Ruff. A team with one of the league's elite goaltenders.

The Sabres currently sit five points out of eighth place in the Eastern Conference with two games in hand on the Carolina Hurricanes. Ninth-place Florida is four points clear of Buffalo, having played one more game.

With 70 games played, there's only 12 remaining on the schedule. For those of you who are unaware, that's just one under the 13 shots Buffalo put up in 60 minutes against the Ottawa Senators last Tuesday.

It was a performance that Ruff called pathetic, and who could blame him? Six shots in the first and third periods each with one single shot squeezed into the second frame.

Fortunately for myself, I happened to be in Detroit to catch the Red Wings and Philadelphia Flyers go head-to-head. St. Patrick's Day celebrations also helped ease the pain.

Instead of witnessing a squad fight for their postseason lives as we should have, this group displayed no heart or desire.

Detroit produced 19 shots in the first period alone against the Flyers. When you make a comparison like that, it's hard to believe that your team has any right to play in the postseason.

There are teams like the Atlanta Thrashers and New York Islanders who are just competing for pride and still bring a great level of intensity to the ice.

Buffalo is a team that still has a shot at making the playoffs, but, frankly, they don't even deserve to be in their fortunate 10th-place position in the East. Supported by some of the greatest hockey fans a city can have, the players have done little to repay them.

Easy points may not exist in the NHL, but there are those that can be classified as easier. First, there's the five losses in six games to the Senators. Two losses in four contests to both the Islanders and Tampa Bay Lightning.

Three straight defeats against Atlanta, including the third-period meltdown just last weekend. Patrick Lalime has stepped up his game for the team in Ryan Miller's absence and he deserves credit for bringing his best efforts at such a crucial point in the year.

A goaltender can only do so much and an offense that hasn't found consistency won't assist him. Sometimes, you wonder if anyone can stop them from scoring. Other times, you think about whether or not they want to be on the ice.

This is a group that consists of many small players who are easy to push around. What few gritty and tough competitors they do have, haven't necessarily done their expected duties.

Defensively, the number of give-aways and errand passes have occurred more than frequently.

Buffalo may be able to take a page out of the Edmonton Oilers' strategy. Zach Stortini is mainly a fighter but they have used him in offensive situations increasingly as his confidence grows.

It's a smart strategy in keeping your enforcer apart of the game. Why not experiment such a technique with Andrew Peters? At least someone would be around to throw down the gloves when necessary.

Again, you have to go back to Miller's injury from Scott Gomez and how the team did absolutely nothing in response. Tonight, the Sabres host the Flyers, who have easily disposed of Buffalo in the three previous meetings of the year.

Other plans may be the wise choice for the Sabres faithful.

Teams like Florida, Carolina, New York, and Pittsburgh have played their best hockey recently to ensure at least an opportunity in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Sabres can't put three straight victories together.

I'd like to wish all of those organizations luck in their concluding matches. You've all earned the right to play in April.

The Buffalo Sabres haven't.

Olli Jokinen Hot, Niklas Backstrom Not

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:41:20 -0400

In St. Louis, it would have been easy to give up on the season. With a laundry-list of injuries throughout the year, the team made no excuses. Instead, they continue to fight for every point to stay in the playoff race.

With a great core of young players, a trusted No. 1 goaltender and trailing by only one point for eighth place, these kids may get their shot in the postseason sooner than they expected.

That's hockey.

HOT

Calgary was declared the conclusive winner at the trade deadline when they acquired Olli Jokinen from Phoenix. These week, we found out why as the Finn totalled eight points (six goals, two assists) in three games. His ability to knock a bouncing puck into the net against Toronto displayed yet another reason why Jokinen is so dangerous.

Toronto lost two of four, but Alexei Ponikarovsky did everything he could for the team with seven points (one goal, six assists). His four-assist night against the Flames capped off a great week for the 28-year-old.

Having already broken his previous career-highs in assists and points, Ponikarovsky is just three goals away from making it a hat-trick.

History was made Saturday night when Martin Brodeur tied Patrick Roy's all-time record for most wins as a goaltender. Accomplishing the feat in Montreal where Brodeur grew up made it all the more special.

So much for the greatest netminder expecting to return slowly. He's won seven of eight games since coming back and Terry Sawchuk's shutout record is barely hanging on.

Sometimes you don't know what you had until you lost it. Montreal's powerplay lost a key component when Mark Streit made the trip to Long Island. Playing for the worst team in the NHL hasn't taken anything away from the Swiss' game.

Streit had three goals and three assists this week helping New York win three out of four games. The only defenseman leading his team in points.

No regulation losses for Pittsburgh since Feb.14 and Sidney Crosby intends on keeping it that way. The 21-year-old carried the team on his back with eight points (two goals, six assists) giving the Penguins six points out of a possible eight.

Drafted 171st overall in the 1998 Entry Draft, Pavel Datsyuk still doesn't receive as much attention as he probably should. The Russian has been Detroit's most consistent player all season and led the way yet again with a seven-point week.

Speaking of underappreciated, Alexander Semin continues to play marvelous hockey in Washington. He had six points (one goal, five assists) in three games and has produced 69 points in just 51 games this season.

The 1.35 points per game average is only bested by Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby and Paul Kariya although the latter only played on 11 occasions.

When the playoffs are out of reach, pride is what you play for. In Atlanta, Kari Lehtonen has easily played his best in March. The 25-year-old has won four straight, allowed five goals and managed two shutouts.

If the wins keep piling up, John Anderson may have momentum going into next season.

A shootout ace as a rookie. Nearly a 20-goal scorer as a sophomore. Now, a thirty-goal man. Phil Kessel has re-captured the scoring touch that saw him hitting the back of the net constantly at one point in the season. Kessel scored four this week and added an assist.

The 21-year-old has never faced a battle he couldn't beat and he should be a top scorer in the league for years to come.

Each time Alex Burrows lights the lamp or manages a point it's a new career-high. The Vancouver winger has scored in four straight and is becoming one of the best agitators with offensive proficiency.

Just four points away from 800 in his career, Ray Whitney is a true inspiration to veterans in the NHL. The Wizard had six points (two goals, four assists) for the Hurricanes and still plays the game like a 20-year-old. As they say in Carolina, "Everybody loves Raymond."

NOT

With the continuing struggles in Minnesota, the team must be counting the days until Marian Gaborik's return. The Wild have lost four straight with Niklas Backstrom in goal and conceded 13 goals in the process. Three of the defeats were in overtime which is what has kept Jacques Lemaire's group in postseason contention.

Like the Wild, Edmonton was the recipient of three points through extra-time defeats. Dwayne Roloson has lost four of his last five and allowed 15 goals in the losses. The Oilers are another team on the bubble and the goaltender isn't the only one to blame.

It was all smiles in Sunrise when the Florida Panthers decided to maintain the services of Jay Bouwmeester. However, the offensive defender has only produced one point in five games since the trade deadline. It'll be a disaster if the Panthers miss the playoffs and lose their star defender in the summer.

The San Jose Sharks aren't dominating the opposition quite as routinely as they once were. One of their younger stars, Devin Setoguchi has hit his coldest point of the year going 10 games without a goal and one helper to show in that time frame.

Hey may hit 50 wins, but Miikka Kiprusoff still has his share of disputable performances. The native of Turku, Finland was beaten 14 times in three contests this week posting a save percentage under .900 in each match. Calgary also has the worriment of not having a dependable backup goaltender.

Alexei Kovalev was the MVP of the All-Star Game, but 47 points in 65 games aren't impressive numbers by any means. Kovalev has one goal in his last five games and seems to resemble the uninterested Russian we saw repeatedly in 2007/2008.

In his first full season with Philadelphia, he didn't fail to impress. This year, Braydon Coburn has lost an edge to his game. The eighth overall pick in 2003 has gone 10 games without a point and will be fortunate to match the 36-point campaign he enjoyed last year.

Karim Benzema Will Remain with Lyon

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:43:18 -0400

Months of contemplation concerning Karim Benzema's future have concluded. The 21-year-old has assured the public that he will stay with Lyon next season.

Having been linked with a number of Europe's top clubs, the French striker determined that he would make his decision following Les Gones' two meetings with Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League round of 16.

A move seemed inevitable when Sir Alex Ferguson expressed his admiration for Benzema. Manchester United's manager had already proven his interest this time last year when his group took on Lyon in the Champions League.

"He is an excellent footballer," the Old Trafford chief told Le Journal du Dimanche. "He reminds me of (Zinedine) Zidane in the way that he uses his body. He has broad shoulders and a great drive when he has the ball at his feet.''

''You always have to keep an eye on all the best players and how they are developing." he said.

It was uncertain what Benzema would do considering that Barcelona disposed of his team 6-3 on aggregate. There was also the matter of Jean-Michel Aulas' 100 million euro desire in exchange for his star up front.

"I'm going to stay at Lyon," he said, following a Lyon training session on Friday. "I feel really good at OL, I am surrounded by good people and I still have time. I shouldn't have said I would make my decision after Barcelona.

"This decision will not be changed, whether or not we retain the title, whether or not France qualify for the next World Cup.

"At 21, I am still developing, I am going to get better and progress. At Lyon, I play regularly in big matches and I take part in the Champions League."

Now that the good news has been received, Lyon must focus on winning their eighth straight Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain trailing by a single point in the standings.

A Trade Deadline Special: Erik Cole Hot, Patrick O'Sullivan Not

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 20:24:03 -0400

A total of 22 trades took place during the NHL’s 2009 deadline day.

While some players were moved as expected, others surprisingly stayed put and laid our thoughts to rest.

Marian Gaborik and Jay Bouwmeester are two examples of that.

Unfortunately, this year's deadline didn't bring quite as many blockbuster trades as we anticipated it would.

I thought it would be interesting to focus this week's hot or not episode on the player's that suited up in different jerseys for the first time. We will still take a look at some of the names that didn't go anywhere and still had a great week.

The primary aim will be at the newly acquired talent that teams grabbed.

HOT

There's no place like home and for Erik Cole that has to be in Carolina where he began his career. Reunited with head coach Paul Maurice, he has five points in two games since returning to Raleigh. He never truly found himself in Edmonton and he's back where he belongs after just a few months with the Oilers.

Benefitting from Cole's presence is Eric Staal who is now matched with the Oswego, N.Y. native on the top line. Staal had a nine-point week, eights points which came alongside Cole, and a ridiculous six-point (four goals, two assist) outing against Tampa Bay. Having played decent hockey all year, we may have the real Eric Staal back on our hands.

Size is what the New York Rangers were ultimately lacking. Nik Antropov has brought it with him to Broadway and hasn't disappointed in the early stages. The 29-year-old has three points in two games since arriving. It's still early, but this is certainly a promising sign.

Rick Nash is deserving of postseason action after all he's gone through in Columbus. The Blue Jackets are eyeing a berth this year and their captain has been providing the bulk of the offense. The 2002 first overall pick had six-points in three games, including a hat trick against the Detroit Red Wings. At last, the wait may be over for Nash.

In Pittsburgh, the Penguins have turned their playoff hopes around in a hurry. Joining this group is Bill Guerin who will be required to bring his experience to the table come April. Three-points in two games thus far and the Penguins are looking phenomenal.

New youth in Phoenix has provided some offensive support. Scottie Upshall, Peter Prucha and Matthew Lombardi have each contributed a few points for the Coyotes in their first three games. All three possess great potential and maybe Wayne Gretzky will bring the best out of them.

Goaltending doesn't appear to be an issue in Pittsburgh anymore as Marc-Andre Fleury has won his last six starts. He has allowed 10 goals during that span and may be preparing to take the team for another playoff run.

Dallas has their fair share of injuries and Mike Ribeiro hasn't forgotten how much his production is needed. Ribeiro had six-points in four games this week, but the Stars only managed to win two games.

With or without Olli Jokinen, Jarome Iginla is going to do his job in Calgary. The Flames captain has nine goals in his last eight contests and 17-points total. You'd like to see this guy win a Stanley Cup eventually, as he is the ultimate leader.

Only once has Ilya Kovalchuk been held off the score sheet in the last baker’s dozen games for Atlanta. The Russian has averaged two points per game during that span and Don Waddell would be a fool to let him leave the organization at any point in his career, however, the choice may not be his.

NOT

In return for Cole, the Oilers received Patrick O'Sullivan. Unlike his predecessor, he hasn't shined just yet with his new squad. The potential is there for O'Sullivan, who scored 22 goals last season, but the setting may not be his preference.

Ales Hemsky's passing abilities and Ales Kotalik's big shot. It seemed like a great match when the Czech native was brought to Edmonton. The fact is that Kotalik lacks jump often and that may be why he hasn't come close to matching the 63-points he put up in 2005-2006.

Where has the offense gone in Anaheim? Teemu Selanne and Ryan Getzlaf each only had one point to show that they were in fact on the roster for the Ducks. This group has lost three straight and may miss the postseason just two years after capturing the Stanley Cup.

Even when not competing at 100 percent, Dan Boyle is still a danger for to strike against the opposition. Boyle has been having some wrist problems this year and his one goal in 16 contests indicates just that. What he lacks in shooting at the moment, he may make up for with his speed because he his as fluent as skater as they come.

Brian Boucher's second tour of duty as Evgeni Nabokov's replacement hasn't been nearly as successful as the first. San Jose has lost three straight and Boucher has conceded 11 goals. Teams may be eager to play the Sharks for a change.

Another goaltender with recent struggles is Cristobal Huet who has lost four of his past five decisions. The 35-year-old has been shaky following a four-game winning streak. Is Nikolai Khabibulin going to be activated any time soon?

Boston may not have its reliable goaltending duo any longer. Manny Fernandez has dropped five straight and hasn't seen victory since early January. Some of the goals he allowed in New York yesterday were brutal and Tim Thomas will see more and more action if this continues.

The Buffalo Sabres haven't seen much from Dominic Moore since his arrival. This team has lacked consistency the entire season and the former Maple Leaf may have to get used to his new home very quickly.

Out in the cold is Dion Phaneuf in Calgary and we're not talking about the weather. The powerful defender has gone four straight without a point, and may see his worst offensive year since joining the league after the lockout.

Maxim Afinogenov Finds Success by Going Back to Basics

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:48:45 -0500

Two months. That's how long it had been since Maxim Afinogenov hit the ice for the Buffalo Sabres. Out since Jan. 3, 2009 with a groin injury, he has been in a jam offensively since last season.

In the two years following the lockout, Afinogenov totaled 134 points in 133 games, but since then, managed only 41 points in 91 games. There's no denying the talent he possesses—however, the 29-year-old has just appeared lost at times on the ice.

Head coach Lindy Ruff didn't hide his feelings, and scratched the Russian on a number of occasions before his injury in early January. With the trade deadline looming, it was an easy assumption to suspect that the life-long Sabre would be moved elsewhere.

Therein was a problem, and that was whether or not a team would believe the speedy forward just needed a change of scenery to find himself. Afinogenov expressed his wishes to stay in Buffalo, although only if he was competing.

In the end, Afinogenov didn't go anywhere, and made his return to the lineup Wednesday as the Sabres hosted the Montreal Canadiens.

To impress Ruff, Afinogenov would have to play basic hockey. Back-checking and not giving the puck away would ultimately be his goal. Unattractive it may be—at the same time, it was necessary.

Simple, and effective.

He was no longer the man who could dangle like Pavel Bure. Instead, he would be forced to start from scratch to perhaps one day recapture that attribute.

Afinogenov played a superb game against the Canadiens by passing the puck, skating hard on the back-check, creating opportunities, and even chipping in with a power-play assist.

Ruff had to have liked what he saw, and for the first time in months we saw glimpses of the impeccable Afinogenov who dazzled the crowd on so many occasions.

It may take some time for him to regain his complete confidence, but he has taken the first step in becoming the player he once was.

In doing so, he is one step closer to once again being the player everyone came to call Baby Bure.

NHL Trade Deadline Winners and Losers

Rafal Ladysz — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:05:00 -0500

The clock has officially hit 3 p.m which means that the 2009 NHL trade deadline has ended. Some late deals may still take place and be announced shortly.

It's an exciting day that you wish could occur more than once a year in hockey. Every year we have our teams that made big splashes and the ones that simply sold to improve for the future.

Winners

Calgary Flames

May as well start out with a bang. Calgary acquired Olli Jokinen from Phoenix and Jordan Leopold from Colorado. These are two moves that will ensure the Flames will be considered a contender in the Western Conference when the playoffs arrive.

First, Jokinen will no longer be the longest active NHLer without a game of experience in the postseason. Calgary will most likely place him on the second line because you don't want to jeopardize the chemistry between Jarome Iginla and Mike Cammalleri.

This gives Mike Keanan another scoring threat, especially on the power play where Jokinen can unload from the blue line. Leopold will begin his second stint with the Flames, and he adds to a defense that already has offensive capabilities.

With his previous experience in Calgary, the 28-year-old should have no problem fitting in and perhaps surpassing the 33 points he produced there in 2003-2004.

Pittsburgh Penguins

There's no substitute for experience come April. The Penguins picked up Bill Guerin who will serve as Miroslav Satan's replacement should he be dealt. Pittsburgh has looked like a new squad under Dan Bylsma even without Sidney Crosby—again.

Chris Kunitz has already made a mark in a Penguins uniform, registering five points (three goals, two assists) in his first three games.

Ryan Whitney was a good puck-moving defender, but Sergei Gonchar has already shown he's capable of leading the way even after a lengthy absence. It appears as though the Pittsburgh Penguins are back to their old ways.

Buffalo Sabres

Calling the Sabres a winner after today may be a bit of a gamble. After all, they re-signed Tim Connolly to a two-year, $9 million contract. A healthy Connolly would definitely be worth this value as he is a play making genius.

An 82-game healthy? It's a nice dream. Reality may have other thoughts.

Also, Buffalo addressed its goaltending needs and grabbed Mikael Tellqvist out of Phoenix. The veteran has been a dependable back-up throughout his career, and will assist Patrick Lalime between the pipes.

Anything is possible. Wade Dubielewicz leading the Islanders to a playoff berth two years ago is living proof.

Finally, Dominic Moore was added to give the team some energy. He has already set personal bests offensively with the Maple Leafs, and will give the Sabres a capable center who can hopefully continue his great year.

Boston Bruins

This latest losing streak must have gotten the Bruins to think. Mark Recchi has been added for the playoff drive, and he has shown that he can be the man to get them to the promised land like he did with Carolina in 2005/2006.

Steve Montador was shipped from Anaheim, and he gives Boston a rough defender who can chip in with offense from time-to-time. The native of British Columbia also brings experience to the table being part of the Calgary group that reached game seven of the 2003-2004 Stanley Cup Finals.

Boston is certainly ready and waiting for their first round opponent.

New York Rangers

Here's a team that's in dire need of offense. Nik Antropov should be able to help in the goal-scoring department, and his size will be valued on a Rangers team boasting plenty of smaller players.

Derek Morris resembles the style of Montador, and will give the opposition second thoughts about running over Henrik Lundqvist in goal. The defense is struggling to put pucks into the net as well.

Morris did produce some great statistics in Colorado and Calgary. Dmitri Kalinin, Nigel Dawes, and Peter Prucha were sent to Phoenix in exchange.

Florida Panthers

Ultimately, they are winners for hanging on to Jay Bouwmeester. In the long run, they will be made to suffer when the defender is signed elsewhere as a free agent in July. However, the fact is, this city needs to make the playoffs for their fans and owners.

Florida has been one of those questionable markets for an NHL team, and a postseason appearance would take off some of the heat for the time being. Steve Eminger will play for his third team just this season.

He has shown decent offensive flair with Tampa Bay, and Florida's defense is that much stronger. Bouwmeester, Bryan McCabe, Keith Ballard, and Eminger. Not bad at all.

Columbus Blue Jackets

Pascal Leclaire wasn't expecting to see much action with Steve Mason now becoming the team's saviour. Leclaire is now an Ottawa Senator and Antoine Vermette joins a Columbus group that, like Florida, needs to establish themselves in the playoff picture.

Vermette has struggled for the better part of the year, but has come to life recently. The 26-year-old can easily become a 20 goal, 20 assist guy in Columbus.

There's also his speed, and penalty-killing abilities that make him perhaps the last piece of the puzzle for the Blue Jackets.

Losers

Toronto Maple Leafs

It was no secret that Toronto would be a seller this year. Brian Burke is re-modeling this team and released Antropov, and Moore, who had become a favourite within the Maple Leafs organization.

Another blow for this team is losing Vesa Toskala for the year just when he was playing his best hockey of the season. Martin Gerber looked shaky from day one in October when Tyler Kennedy beat him with a routine shot less than a minute in.

In a more bizarre move, Olaf Kolzig has also joined Toronto. Leafs fan have something to look forward to for a change—the future.

Anaheim Ducks

Kunitz, Samuel Pahlsson, Travis Moen, and Kent Huskins are all heading elsewhere, except for Kunitz who obviously already went to Pittsburgh before today. They picked up defenders and young prospects in return.

Obviously, this team doesn't look bound for another Cup, and some major re-shaping is taking place. The main components are still here though. Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, Teemu Selanne, Chris Pronger, and Scott Niedermayer are going nowhere.

Phoenix Coyotes

With Jokinen gone, Shane Doan is once again the lone offensive stud Wayne Gretzky has. Scottie Upshall, Nigel Dawes, Matthew Lombardi, and Nigel Dawes will add to the team's young bunch.

Morris' exit also leaves the defense even more vulnerable to conceding goals if it's possible. For five months, this team had its second superstar next to Doan, and already Jokinen has found a new home.

What else can you say? The Coyotes are in a real tough position.

Tampa Bay Lightning

Considering the playoffs are out of reach, the Lightning did make some moves that will pay off in the future. Recchi and Eminger parted ways, and Tampa Bay brought in some youngsters who can help build the team eventually.

Kolzig's absence means Mike Smith won't have a mentor so to speak during the rough patches. Led by Lecavalier, and St. Louis, they are building for the future. Out with old, in with the new.

Colorado Avalanche

Losers for the fact that they traded Leopold for a guy they could have picked up on waivers. Lawrence Nycholat was grabbed by Calgary and eventually shipped to Colorado in the Leopold deal.

Smart work by the Flames owners. Absolutely stupid thinking by the Avalanche.

Martin Brodeur Hot, David Krejci Not

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 18:09:27 -0500

Any doubters of the Florida Panthers and their playoff hopes must have been impressed with the 6-2 thumping they gave Washington in D.C. The last time the Cats made the postseason was in 2000, led by the "Russian Rocket," Pavel Bure.

Of course, the trade deadline is a little more than two days away. Where will Jay Bouwmeester go, and what will GM Jacques Martin receive in return?

Just one of the many questions that will be answered in a short time.

HOT

It was as if he never left. Martin Brodeur won his first three games since returning from a 50-game absence, and posted two shutouts in the process.

Now he's just four wins away from tying Patrick Roy's all-time record off 551, and three shutouts away from Terry Sawchuk's mark of 103. A normal goaltender would not stand a chance with such little time. For Brodeur, it may very well be all he needs.

He's back and well rested for the upcoming playoffs. There are 15 other teams who are shaking at the thought.

Giving Ilya Kovalchuk the captaincy in Atlanta may have just fueled his engine. He wasn't struggling prior to being captain, but now he's just playing like a man possessed. Kovalchuk had eight points this week, including a five-point effort which erased a 3-1 deficit against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Nashville is that team that's never quite out of the playoff picture. Led by Pekka Rinne in net, the Predators may just squeeze into it again. The Finn has won his last four starts, posted two shutouts, and allowed a combined four goals.

Nobody had a better week offensively than Calgary's Jarome Iginla. The Flames captain totaled 10 points, nine of which came in two contests. Last night, Iginla racked up five points to surpass Theoren Fleury as the team's all-time leading scorer. Tampa Bay would spoil his moment, however, coming out 8-6 winners.

Anton Babchuk has already set a career-high with 19 points (eight goals, 11 assists) for Carolina this year. The Ukrainian has always been known as a slow starter, but has come around with goals in three straight and points in the last four games. Keep your eye on him because he was, after all, a first-round draft pick in 2002.

His 80-foot overtime winner in Boston made quite the headline. Alexander Semin was leading the NHL in points at one time before going down with an injury. When healthy, he hasn't disappointed. The six points this week indicate why he doesn't fight very often.

Last week, we requested more offense from Bryan McCabe and he answered the call. The St. Catharines native has six points in the last three games, and his four-point effort in Washington yesterday led the Panthers to a confidence-building victory.

Players look to make an impression prior to the trade deadline. No doubt, Pavel Kubina has been one of the biggest attention-grabbers lately. The Leafs defender (for now anyway) dished out assists two weeks ago and scored goals last week. He tied the game late in the third period against Ottawa Saturday night. Why stop there? In overtime, he would strike again to give Toronto its fourth straight win.

The encouraging factor with Zach Parise is that he's outdone himself in every scoring category the following season, from a 32-point rookie effort to the 77 points that have him ranked No. 4 among all forwards this year. Parise scored three times and handed out four assists this week for the Devils. Only Alexander Ovechkin has more goals. Could he catch him?

Lucky seven for Mark Recchi in the number of assists he piled up over the last seven days. He's 41 years old and still going strong after 20 years in the league. It's breathtaking to think about the fact that he made his debut right around the day I was born.

Allowing one goal in each of his past five starts, Chris Mason and the St. Louis Blues aren't quitting on their postseason hopes. Originally a New Jersey draft pick, Mason has gone 4-0-1 during that time, with at least a .955 save percentage in every match.

NOT

David Krejci virtually came out of nowhere this year, and had a stretch where it seemed like he was never going to have a pointless night. However, he has just one assist in his last five games for the Boston Bruins. Krejci has already set new highs across the board with 20 goals and 40 assists. With 19 games remaining on the schedule, I'm sure he won't want to stop there.

You could arguably pick on the entire Buffalo Sabres team with their recent play. Jochen Hecht is the target this time around because he's been cold throughout the entire season. Hecht scored 22 goals last year, but has just 19 points through 51 games. Lindy Ruff may have to introduce him to the dog house in the near future.

Detroit did win two of three, but their lone loss was 8-0 in Nashville. Nicklas Lidstrom went pointless, but to his credit remained even in the plus-minus category that night against the Predators.

Watch out for the Minnesota Wild and what they do Wednesday. Marian Gaborik may be shipped off and Nicklas Backstrom could possibly join him. The Wild play a defense-first system, but it's a struggling way if your goalie has one win in his last five starts.

Dallas has been and up and down for the better part of 2008-09. Down is where they've been lately as Marty Turco has been between the pipes for four consecutive losses. The 33-year-old has allowed 11 goals during that span.

Off-ice rumors never assist a player's mindset, and Ilya Bryzgalov has lost four of five. His save percentage during that time has been relatively good, but the Coyotes need wins above all else. At the very least, some overtime losses would do.

Florida may make the postseason, but David Booth finding his scoring edge would certainly help the situation. Booth has one goal in his last six games, and the Panthers will need more to ensure their place in April.

So much for Ottawa's late playoff push. The Senators have gone back to their losing ways, and Bryan Elliott has been beaten 12 times in his last four outings. The season is all but finished for this group.

Memo to Don Cherry: Get a Life

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:12:22 -0500

You can't seem to get through one of Don Cherry's segments without him mentioning visors, Canadians, and how much the Europeans need to learn from the North American players.

In his latest Coach's Corner, Cherry called out Alexander Ovechkin and compared his goal celebrations to that of a soccer player. Sidney Crosby doesn't seem to like the Russian's jumping and fist-pumping as well.

What a surprise.

"Act like Joe Thornton. Act like Sakic. Act like Iginla, Shanahan, Bobby Orr, Yzerman," Cherry says.

I've got news for you Don Cherry. This is the best player in the NHL, and he's the ultimate reason people fill the seats. He doesn't have to follow in anyone else's footsteps. His enthusiastic play is loved by fans worldwide.

"He's a funny guy and old guy. He likes old-fashioned hockey," said Ovechkin after scoring his NHL-high 46th goal in Washington's 6-2 loss to Florida on Sunday.

"He's not interesting to me, so he can say whatever he wants. I don't care about him," Ovechkin said.

Indeed, Ovechkin shouldn't worry about what a one-sided analyst who played one game in the National Hockey League thinks. Bruce Boudreau didn't react quite as kindly to Cherry's criticism.

"He's a friend of mine. And he's an idol of mine. I mean, I love what Don Cherry has stood for, for 30 years. I just think that even the smartest people in the world are wrong sometimes, and I just thought he was wrong," said Boudreau. "Because he doesn't know Alex like we know Alex."

Cherry continued with these comments:

"I'm going to tell you about this guy: He's got a free ride. He runs at guys, does this stuff," Cherry said. "I am predicting somebody's going to get him. And somebody's going to get him good. There's somebody out there—some big defenseman is going to be sitting in the weeds. As he cuts across center ice, somebody's going to cut him in half."

All of a sudden, Europeans who throw the body are now doing that wrong too I guess. Nothing they do will impress Cherry and his biased opinion.

So, instead of constantly calling out Europeans for their poor play, why don't you just call it like it is for a change? Today, many of the game's top players are from Europe and they are making their mark in the NHL.

In conclusion, I'd just like to say: Don Cherry, you know nothing. Please, get a life.

Don't Blame Patrick Lalime if the Buffalo Sabres Miss the Playoffs

Rafal Ladysz — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 11:58:23 -0500

All of a sudden, the Buffalo Sabres have dried up in terms of scoring goals. Not quite the expectation when this team started out the year with a 6-0-2 record. However, the wheels began to fall off when Thomas Vanek suffered a broken jaw against the Ottawa Senators.

Gone was the team's leading scorer and his 32 goals vanished with him. Having one of the brightest goaltender in the league, Ryan Miller, it wasn't all expected to go sour. It goes without saying that Miller gives the Sabres a chance to win every night.

But Miller would suffer a high ankle sprain precisely two weeks after Vanek's injury. Indeed, it turned into a domino-effect. Scott Gomez upended the franchise goaltender behind his own net.

What did the Sabres do in response? Nothing.

Standing there as if unharmed by the incident, they watched as the largest component to their playoff hopes lie on the ice clutching his ankle.

What sort of a message would this send to the opposing teams? Something along the lines of, ' we can do what ever we want to these guys'.

It's the sad truth. By failing to take any action on the New York Rangers, Buffalo opened the door for future opponents to run them over.

Patrick Lalime was acclaimed the new starter in Miller's absence. From his days with the Senators, faith wasn't a word many fans would put in a sentence with Lalime's name.

Our postseason aspirations were now led by a man who had a 4-18 record in 2005/2006. His first start under these circumstances came against the Anaheim Ducks.

Mind you, his team didn't do much to help his cause. Just over a minute into the game, Toni Lydman coughed up the puck and Teemu Selanne had a breakaway.

Your first test is one-on-one with a player who scored 76 goals in his rookie year. Lalime couldn't be blamed for that one, but the two goals which followed were soft ones.

Buffalo competed harder, and took the play to the Ducks, but ultimately fell 3-2.

Two days later, the Sabres visited the Carolina Hurricanes, and Lalime had a much stronger outing in this one. With the game tied at one after 65 minutes, a shootout would decide the second point.

Jussi Jokinen scored the lone goal, and Lalime's 31-save effort went to waste.

Finally, the loss which really struck a fatal blow to the Sabres last night. Taking on the New York Islanders, Yann Danis backstopped the team ranked 30th in the NHL to a 2-0 victory.

Again, Lalime made 30-plus saves and couldn't be at fault for his team's uninspired play.

So, with a 0-2-1 record without Miller, the Sabres are anticipating a return from Vanek this upcoming week. It may be just the spark they need with an offense that's firing blanks.

Will it be enough? Who knows. This group is more than capable of turning it around with a few high-scoring affairs.

The question many may ask themselves is this: If the Buffalo Sabres can't defeat the Islanders without Miller, who can they beat?

The Calder Trophy Race: Where We Stand Today

Rafal Ladysz — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 11:52:28 -0500

What a rollercoaster of a ride the 2009 Calder Trophy competition has been. More than a few rookies have had their names mentioned as the season has progressed. All of the experts who chose Steven Stamkos and Mikkel Boedker were sorely mistaken.

The journey has been great, and there's still over a month until the conclusion. Here's how the race has gone.

Oct. 15, 2008 — Fabian Brunnstrom makes large impact

He was a hot commodity and his debut was highly anticipated. Brunnstrom didn't disappoint, as he scored three goals and became the third player in NHL history to do so in his first game. Unfortunately, he wouldn't be able to keep those numbers coming.

Oct. 28, 2008 — Steven Stamkos registers first NHL point

It took eight games, but Stamkos finally produced the first point of his National Hockey League career in Toronto. The former Sarnia Sting property would get plenty of attention in the match that followed in Buffalo by piling up three points (two goals, one assist). Many would believe that he would continue his scoring ways for the year after a rough start.

Nov. 5, 2008 — Derick Brassard stays hot

The 21-year-old scored his fifth goal of the season, and now had 12 points in as many contests through the first month of action for Columbus. Brassard would eventually be rewarded by seeing time on the first line with Rick Nash and Kristian Huselius. His production would continue for the Blue Jackets.

Nov. 5, 2008 — A young goaltender gets his chance

That same night, the Blue Jackets called up Steve Mason to start in his first NHL game. Although he allowed four goals against the Edmonton Oilers, Columbus would get the victory and Mason would go on to win three straight. There was much more to come in the future.

Nov. 6, 2008 — Wheeling and dealing

As if the Boston Bruins didn't have enough weapons at their disposal. Blake Wheeler would score his first career hat-trick to cement himself into the Calder fold. At 6-foot-5, he's a big man with steady hands. Take a look at how he made the St. Louis Blues look like a group of pylons.

Nov. 16, 2008 — The 134th pick in 2004 scores first shorty

Drafted by the Boston Bruins, Kris Versteeg may have been the least expected player to contend for the Calder Trophy of 2009. However, on this night, the native of Lethbridge would score twice, including his first shorthanded marker. It would be his 15th point in 16 games, and he currently stands as the leader in points among rookie forwards.

Nov. 19, 2008 — Bobby Ryan has arrived

Ryan would score two goals and hand out one assist in just his second game of the season. He was called up to replace the injured Teemu Selanne, and the Ducks finally saw the potential that made him the No. 2 pick after Sidney Crosby. Ryan has averaged the highest point per game rate this year, and although he started late, is a heavy contender for the Calder.

Nov. 27, 2008 — Mikhail Grabovski has tremendous month

Toronto may have been struggling, but Grabovski certainly wasn't. He finished the month of November with a point-per-game ratio, and scored most of his goals during that time.

Dec. 10, 2008 — St. Louis receives much needed offensive boost

Paul Kariya and Andy McDonald were out of action. Brad Boyes couldn't be the only offensive force for the Blues. In came Patrik Berglund, who managed 19 points in 22 games. The Swede's consistency has dropped a little, but he's still having a fine year.

Dec. 18th, 2008 — Brassard injures shoulder

Sadly, Brassard's Calder dream would end on this night against the Dallas Stars. After scoring an early goal, he would fight and separate his shoulder. The immediate assumption was season-ending surgery.

Dec. 22, 2008 — Goligoski the man in Pittsburgh?

Alex Goligoski was the defenseman who stepped it up with the absence of Ryan Whitney and Sergei Gonchar. A rookie taking over on the blue line. How about that? He scored two goals in Buffalo and added an assist, giving him seven points in five games. Goligoski was a major contender for the Calder until Michel Therrien insisted on scratching him in favor of Kris Letang. Perhaps that's why he was fired.

Dec. 23, 2008 — James Neal leads the onslaught

Why does every rookie seem to take his frustrations out on the Maple Leafs? Dallas embarassed Toronto with eight goals, three of which came from James Neal. Only Ryan has more goals in the rookie class, and Neal has done wonders for a Stars' team decimated with injuries.

Dec. 31, 2008 — Make it three in a row

Columbus began starting Mason on a regular basis, even in back-to-back situations. Fatigue didn't seem to affect him, and on the night before the New Year he would register his third consecutive shutout. Mason became the first goaltender to eye the Calder Trophy this year.

Jan. 8, 2009 — Ryan makes history

If anyone wasn't convinced with Ryan's game, this was a night were he stole the show. He became the first Anaheim rookie to record a hat-trick, and it was the fastest by any player in the franchise's history. It included this ridiculous spin-o-rama goal.

Jan. 28, 2009 — Teemu Selanne returns

Selanne's return would mean less even-strength and power-play time for Bobby Ryan. Since, he has just seven points in 13 games. Nothing to be upset about, as he's still second in points behind Versteeg, but I'm sure Ryan would have preferred Selanne to stay out of the picture a little longer.

Feb. 17, 2009 — Natural hat-trick for Stamkos

Rick Tocchet took a different approach with the rookie when he took over the Lightning bench. He decided to bench the kid and allow him to get in better condition. It seems to have worked because Stamkos is scoring more regularly than he ever was under Barry Melrose. The Calder may be out of his reach, but he's getting something which he didn't have before. Respect.

Feb. 26, 2009 — The great eight

Not Alexander Ovechkin. Instead, Mason took his season total of shutouts to a league-leading eight. Add to that a .920 save percentage, 2.14 goals against average, and the fact that Columbus is sitting in sixth place in the Western Conference today. Steve Mason is undoubtedly the favourite to win this year's Calder Trophy as it stands.

Mike Richards Hot, New York Rangers Not

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 18:08:29 -0500

Hockey Day in Canada once again brought a nation together on Saturday. None of the Canadian matchups disappointed in my eyes. Obviously, the big story was Mats Sundin's return to Toronto in a Canucks jersey.

The Swede's shootout winner was the storybook ending many may have anticipated. Would it have been less painful if Mikhail Grabovski missed his attempt?

Still, the standing ovation was pleasant to watch.

HOT

A three-game scoring streak isn't out of the ordinary. When you record a shorthanded goal in each game, that certainly deserves praise. Mike Richards increased his season total to seven which is by far tops in the league, and he recorded eight points in just two games this week.

Under new head coach Dan Bylsma, the Pittsburgh Penguins have gone 2-1-1 thus far. It would have been worse if Sidney Crosby hadn't contributed seven points in the four matches. Playoff contention is still possible, and the 21-year-old is doing all he can for the team.

Speaking of Pittsburgh, Sergei Gonchar's presence on the blue line is evident since his return to the lineup. The Russian is on a four-game point streak with two goals, and two assists. More impressive is how quickly Gonchar has adapted to the play after months of missed action.

Anze Kopitar truly appears to be the King of Kings in Los Angeles. The native of Jesenice started off the week with a four-point effort against the Atlanta Thrashers. Kopitar built off that performance with three more points in his remaining three contests.

It remains a mystery whether or not the Carolina Hurricanes will make the postseason for the first time since 2005/2006. One thing is certain: Ray Whitney is leading the charge. His goal and six assists helped Carolina to three straight wins. How about giving a hand Eric Staal?

Trade rumours are swirling around Pavel Kubina. Many would fancy his services, and a big shot from the blue line. Kubina recorded a goal along with five helpers for the Maple Leafs including an assist on every goal yesterday in New York.

C'est la vie. Nikolai Khabibulin's injury has given Cristobal Huet the starting goaltender rank in Chicago. The Frenchman has allowed three goals in his last three games, and won four of his past five starts.

Power forwards who can score regularly are something every coach craves. Ryan Getzlaf is the exemplary player who can pretty much do it all for the Anaheim Ducks. The fourth-year pro hurt his ankle when blocking a shot against Columbus Saturday. It's unfortunate if he misses significant time with six points in the last three games, and 69 on the year.

Three points isn't standard for Alexander Ovechkin, but his highlight reel goal against the Montreal Canadiens is in a category of its own. Fans are already comparing it to his memorable tally against Phoenix while lying on his back in his rookie year. And the award goes to?

Shutting out the Boston Bruins is never easy. Tomas Vokoun got the job done, setting aside 41 shots in the process. Vokoun has won two of his last three games, and each win was shutout. If an injury arises, Craig Anderson is always available who is more than capable of making 40-plus saves.

Confidence is blooming with Alexandre Burrows in Vancouver. Yes, he's playing with the Sedin twins. No, he's not just cashing in on their passing. Burrows has two goals, and five assists in his last four games. Not only has he been setting up the Sedins for goals, but his tip-in against Toronto Saturday was incredible.

NOT

Tom Renney is unemployed, and the New York Rangers' hot start to the season is officially a distant memory. New York has just one win in their last six games. That win came against the lowly New York Islanders, which isn't something to celebrate.

Following a five-game winning streak, the Ottawa Senators have dropped three straight. Perhaps another coaching change will bring out another set of wins. The only good news out of Ottawa is that captain Daniel Alfredsson missed just one game with a fractured jaw.

Chris Osgood is officially watching games from the press box. His underwhelming numbers have already been discussed many times in hot or not. The break served Alex Kovalev well, and Osgood may find it helpful himself.

It's been 20 days since Carey Price won a game. The young goaltender has allowed 23 goals in his last five starts. Everyone seems to be finding a hole in Price, and the Canadiens anniversary season continues to create more bad than good.

The Florida Panthers will need more from Bryan McCabe especially if Jay Bouwmeester is dealt on the trade deadline. He has one assist in his last eight games and the Panther fans may turn impatient eventually.

Coach Lindy Ruff has publicly stated that he requires more from Jason Pominville. The right winger has found assists regularly, but his goals are valued very much. With one goal in the last 22 games, the population of Pominville has decreased rapidly.

There's no place like home. For the Los Angeles Kings, it seems to be the other way around. Terry Murray's group has won five of six on the road, but lost four straight at home. A playoff berth may be ideal if L.A can get it together on home ice.

You can't help but admire the effort level that the St. Louis Blues bring every night. Brad Boyes is highly depended upon to put the puck in the net after a 43-goal 2007/2008 campaign. His recent four-game slide without a point is out of the ordinary.

Offense doesn't come easily in Nashville, which is why Martin Erat needs to end his recent struggles. The 27-year-old is one of the Predators' top skilled players, and his nine-game drought has Music City singing the blues.

Philadelphia Flyers Take Penalty Killing to a New Level

Rafal Ladysz — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:17:16 -0500

Penalties can make or break a game. No matter how often you practice the drills, you are bound to give up a powerplay goal here and there. An extra attacker is just too much to handle at times, and it's human nature for fatigue to kick in.

With the NHL prioritizing more offense and limiting obstruction, never has the job of penalty killers been more challenging. Rule 76.2 was introduced this past off-season, and it states that the first faceoff of a powerplay will take place in the defending team's zone.

It threw away the advantage of touching the puck away from your end and creating a faceoff elsewhere. Last season, just four teams scored on more than 20 percent of their powerplay opportunities.

As of today, 10 teams have converted on the man-advantage with a 20-plus percent efficiency. Clearly, Rule 76.2 is paying extreme dividends to the team with five players on the ice.

There's one team that doesn't seem to be buying into the philosophy of being at a disadvantage in these situations, and that's the Philadelphia Flyers. Top players want to be on the ice in all key moments.

Mike Richards, Simon Gagne, and Jeff Carter have all come to love playing shorthanded. No team in the league has shown more potential while a man down than the Flyers have.

Not only do they sit sixth in penalty-killing percentage, they have converted 14 shorthanded goals. We are still waiting on the first player to catch them napping during a powerplay this year. That's right, the Flyers haven't conceded a shorty to this day of the season.

Gagne and Carter each have four shorthanded tallies, while Richards has five. Since the lockout, only five 3-on-5 goals have occurred. Three of those belong to Mike Richards, and that's an NHL record.

His victims were the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, and most recently, the New York Rangers last Sunday. What ever happened to the days when a two-man advantage was considered a definite goal for the powerplay unit?

One stick-check or blocked shot, and the Flyers could be off in full-flight with an odd-man rush.

"If there's a turnover, we look to go," Carter says.

And go they do. While many defenders will look to ice the puck, in Philadelphia, they look for the stretch-pass. Rarely will you see this group lay back and wait for something to happen.

Each player moves his feet well and forces the issue. Why let the other team dictate the play?

After all, the best defense is a good offense.

Mike Green Hot, Pittsburgh Penguins Not

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 11:58:26 -0500

Hot or not has returned after a two-month break.

Before I get into my selections, I'd like to express my condolences to the family members of the 50 people who died Thursday night when Continental Connection Flight 3407 crashed into a home in suburban Buffalo.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you get through this tough time.

HOT

As if the opposition didn't have enough to worry about in Washington. Mike Green became the first defenseman to score in eight consecutive games on Saturday. The previous mark was seven games by Mike O'Connell in 1983/1984. Green has gotten the attention of everyone with 50 points (22 goals, 28 assists) in just 44 games. If you ask me, he already had it after shattering Patrick Thoresen's cup with a slap shot.

Brian Gionta had 48 goals in 2005/2006, which is the most ever scored by a New Jersey Devils player. Zach Parise is only 16 shy of 50 goals with 25 games remaining on the schedule. If injuries keep out of it, the 24-year-old should reach it before we know it.

Fresh off his hat-trick last night in Anaheim, Ilya Kovalchuk has struck six times in the past four games. It doesn't take much analysis to realize the poor team the Russian is stuck with. With his contract ending in 2010, all eyes will look to see where he ends up. At least he's not complaining and continues to play hard every night.

Four wins in a row. Are the Ottawa Senators finally awoken? Cory Clouston has been able to give the team their confidence back, and the offense is starting to look like an offense for a change. The new head coach has worked with players like Brendan Bell, and Ryan Shannon in the minors, so the potential is there. However, the road into a playoff spot is still a long ways away for Ottawa.

Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau made life quite miserable for a few goaltenders this week. For Marleau, his four goals and three assists allowed him to total 30 in each category for the season. Thornton meanwhile scored one goal to go along with six helpers, four of which came in Buffalo Friday.

He's 37, but that isn't slowing him down. Owen Nolan has given plenty of production when healthy for the Minnesota Wild. His 27 points in 35 games are more than was expected, and the Belfast native has three goals in the last three contests.

When you think about speed, there's nobody better than Matthew Lombardi. A few players may be close, but his jets are unmatchable. After a forgettable start, he has come to life with seven points in the last four games. More encouraging is the fact that his presence is being felt on the penalty kill and he was rewarded with his first shorthanded tally on Monday.

Mononucleosis couldn't stop him. Steve Mason is back after missing a little over a week and looks just as sharp and energetic. His return marked back-to-back performances against Detroit and Carolina. Both were wins, and the rookie only allowed a total of three goals combined. We may be looking at this year's Calder and Vezina Trophy winner. He's just amazing to watch.

Everyone had to be pleased to see Richard Zednik score two goals exactly one year after his neck injury occurred. Maybe not the Toronto Maple Leafs, because they threw away a three-goal lead that night. Zednik's comeback is an inspiration and let's hope his solid play becomes a habit.

Now that Mike Green's out of the way, how about Brian Rafalski in Detroit? His second year in Hockey Town see's him leading all Wings defensemen in points, including the great Nicklas Lidstrom. The 35-year-old has 10 points (one goal, nine assists) in his last seven matches.

For the first time in Toronto, Jason Blake is resembling the 40-goal scorer he was with the New York Islanders. The 5'10" forward has 20 points in 13 games and is giving the Leafs plenty to look forward to. You may have caught his highlight-reel goal against Pittsburgh Saturday somewhere on TSN.

NOT

Sergei Gonchar returned Saturday, but it didn't stop the Pittsburgh Penguins from getting blown out 6-2 by the Toronto Maple Leafs. The team must win 16 of their remaining 25 games to reach 91 points, and even that hasn't been enough to reach the playoffs since the lockout. The good news is Gonchar logged more than 20 minutes in Toronto and didn't appear to hold back on the shoulder at all.

The bad news is Michel Therrien has been fired months after taking the Penguins to the Stanley Cup Finals. Dan Bylsma is behind the bench now on an interim basis. I guess that's what happens when you continuously scratch Alex Goligoski, who was Pittsburgh's best defenseman for quite a while.

Another team going down quickly in the standings is the New York Rangers. They've lost four of five, including a 10-2 thumping at the hands of the Dallas Stars. The team's best players need to begin playing as they're expected. For starters, they can practice not allowing shorthanded goals during a five-on-three. Side note: See yesterday's goal by Mike Richards in New York.

When the NHL is lending you financial support, you should give it something in return. Maybe a five-game winning streak. Wayne Gretzky's Phoenix Coyotes coughed the puck up too many times to remember the exact count against Calgary Saturday. With Olli Jokinen, the Coyotes are struggling, but the Panthers are shining since he left. Coincidence?

Then there's the Montreal Canadiens, who are seemingly crumbling under the massive expectations in their anniversary season. Has Alexei Kovalev taken the year off after his comeback season in 2007/2008? Will Carey Price get his game together? These questions need answering before it's too late.

Phil Kessel hasn't been finding the back of the net nearly as much as he was earlier in the year. The Boston Bruins have lost four straight and Kessel hasn't scored in 12 games. It's a good thing they already have so many games under their belt and don't need to necessarily panic.

Streaky is how J.P Dumont can be described lately. Three straight games with a goal, followed by a few games with no points. The one-two connection with Jason Arnott isn't paying the dividends it did in the past. Nashville desperately needs the Quebec native to be at his finest, which is a point per game.

Seven points in 32 games. Makes you wonder what is happening with Justin Williams. The two-time 30-goal man hasn't been himself since returning from injury. But then again, neither has the rest of the Carolina Hurricanes team.

The Wizard of Oz? I think not. Chris Osgood's 18-5 record is due to the fact that he has an amazing team in front of him. His .879 save percentage and 3.29 GAA have you wondering if he should follow Manny Legace to the minors. Ty Conklin has my vote for undisputed starter in Detroit.

Words can't even describe how awful the New York Islanders are. There are teams in the league with more victories than the amount of points Long Island holds. I'll leave it at that.

The league issued Tomas Plekanec a two-game suspension for running Denis Grebeshkov into the boards feet-first. The Edmonton defenseman who was having a superb year will return in late March. Plekanec's ugly season just got uglier.

Noah Welch Donates His Brain for a Greater Cause

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:15:12 -0500

Men and women have taken different paths in having their names remembered, some more unusual than others. In the NHL or any other hockey league, players are normally remembered for their on-ice accomplishments.

Meet Noah Welch—a defenseman in the National Hockey League who has played 53 games to date. He has played with the Pittsburgh Penguins and currently with the Florida Panthers, scoring four goals and five assists during that time.

Perhaps he hasn't had as many opportunities as he'd like, but the 26-year-old is still young and may find a steady position in a team's lineup in the near future. Barring a Mike Green-like offensive outburst, Welch won't necessarily be a defender who made his mark on the score sheet.

During his time in the NCAA, he was one of the top defenders in the league. His greatest asset is his fluid skating ability, which made him a persistent force for Harvard. Great movement allows him to jump into plays and move back to defense easily.

The 54th overall pick in the 2001 Entry Draft, he is a smart player who reads the play well and reacts in an equally fine manner.

As we all know, the transition to the NHL is extremely difficult and Welch hasn't quite solidified himself yet.

He did appear ready for the big stage when he contributed four points in his first five NHL games. Those would be the only five he would play in the 2005/2006 season unfortunately.

The Massachusetts native has appeared in 20 games this year with the Panthers, which is just two shy of his season-high 22 set with the Penguins two years ago.

In September 2008, Welch decided to donate his brain to Boston University's School of Medicine after his death. This will allow researchers to study the long-term effects of concussions.

Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine is the other hockey player who is assisting The Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy at the Boston University School of Medicine. LaFontaine, among others, had his career shortened by concussions.

In total, there are 12 living athletes contributing to the study. Although he's only had one concussion which occurred in the AHL, Welch is intrigued by the study and doesn't feel he's doing anything special.

Hockey News magazine would disagree. In their Dec. 29, 2008, issue, the writers compiled a list of 100 people of power and influence.

Grabbing the No. 95 spot is Mr. Welch.

They wrote the following: Hats off to Welch, 26, for donating his brain to Boston University's school of medicine after his death so researchers can study the long-term effects of concussions. It may be the only way the 6-foot-4, 218-pound Harvard graduate makes an impression on the NHL, but his impact could be a profound one.

It may be true. Actions off the ice are more valued than the ones on it in some situations.

Noah Welch, let me be the first to say that your contribution to the game has not gone unnoticed.

Teppo Numminen: The True Heart of the Buffalo Sabres

Rafal Ladysz — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 19:39:32 -0500

Experience is something that doesn't come freely in any sport. Careers aplenty have been cut short due to injuries that we resent. Some are able to fight through it and end their playing days on their own terms.

A select few have been able to accomplish this feat. Teppo Numminen definitely appears to be one of them. For starters, he is the only NHLer from the 1986 Entry Draft that's still competing today.

In November 2006, Numminen set a record for most games played by a European-trained player. The previous mark had been the great Jari Kurri's. Since he had debuted in the league, the Finn had spent all of his time with the Winnipeg Jets/Phoenix Coyotes organizations.

That was until 2003, when he signed with the Dallas Stars. Following one year with the Stars and the NHL lockout, Numminen signed with the Buffalo Sabres entering the 2005/2006 season.

The veteran gave the Sabres what they expected in his first two seasons: sound defense, and a fair amount of offense.

Side note: Numminen totalled two goals, 38 assists for 40 points in his first year with the Sabres and added two goals, 27 assists for 29 points in his second season. Only Brian Campbell registered more points in those two years on the Sabres defense.

Prior to the 2007/2008 campaign, the organization and hockey world received a scare when it was announced that Numminen required open heart surgery. The season wore on, and the team desperately needed that cool head on the blue line, which was missing.

Not only was the operation a success, but he returned to play the final game of the season with his teammates. It was a 3-0 win in Boston, but Buffalo had already been eliminated from playoff contention.

Words can't even describe Numminen's courage to return to the game at 40-years-of age. When he was hit in the face by a puck during a Jan. 17 matchup with the Carolina Hurricanes this year, Sabres fans held their breath yet again.

Numminen had a small break in his jaw, but only missed six games. Although he was gone for a short period of time, the Sabres sorely missed his presence. The native of Tampere is continuing his consistent play with two goals and 13 assists through 48 games.

Stats aren't what Buffalo value Numminen for. It's his experience that allows him to stay calm in his own end, send out tape-to-tape passes through the neutral zone, and help the young rookies on the blue line.

Trophies aren't everything, and this is a great example of that. Having the aid of a veteran like Numminen during the season and playoffs pays huge dividends.

Who knows how much longer he will remain with the Buffalo Sabres organization. At his age, you need plenty of heart.

I don't think there's any shortage of that in Teppo Numminen.

Alexander Ovechkin Or Evgeni Malkin? That is the Real Question

Rafal Ladysz — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:34:35 -0500

Over the past few months, I have read countless articles focusing on the match-up between Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin. Different views have been shared, but most would take Ovechkin over Crosby in a head-to-head battle.

With that out of the way, it's time to look at the real rivalry which consists of Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin. It can be classified as that due to the fact that both of these guys seem to target one-another on the ice when the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins meet.

They're both big athletes with plenty of talent and determination. Who will forget Ovechkin bouncing off his Russian counterpart into the boards after attempting to deliver a hit?

Let's be true to ourselves, Crosby doesn't throw the body and he most likely never will on a regular basis.

That's why I can't call it a rivalry between Ovechkin and Crosby. Simply put, the kid won't do everything that No.8 does for the better of his team. Jumping an unexpected Brett McLean isn't exactly the way you get respect in the league.

It was great to see Malkin and Ovechkin having fun together at the All-Star Game. While they may be friends, expect both of these guys to continue pushing each other in the future battles. Great players like matching up against their best competitors.

Ovechkin's success in the league is no secret, but Malkin's story isn't as known. The native of Magnitogorsk came to the league in the 2006/2007 season and scored a goal in each of his first six games. This hadn't been achieved since 1917 when Joe Malone scored in 14 straight games.

Unsurprisingly, Malkin took the Calder Trophy that year with 33 goals, and 52 assists for 85 points. Many still felt that he couldn't play without Crosby in the lineup. Interestingly enough, that's just what occurred last season when the 1st overall pick in the 2005 draft went down with an ankle injury.

Malkin took the team on his back, and led the Penguins in scoring with 44 points in the 28 games Crosby sat out. The 106-point season was just six short of Ovechkin's Art Ross Trophy winning 112-point campaign.

This year, it's more of the same as Malkin is leading the NHL in points with 80. The frightening statistic is that he's only played 55 games. Who benefits the most from this? The league does.

Instead of just Ovechkin and Crosby, there is now a third superstar taking the league by storm. Everyone knows Malkin can fire the puck, but his passing has improved steadily as well. We may be looking at the future's best hockey player.

The media has always labelled him a quiet player who doesn't speak much during interviews. In a recent game with Tampa Bay where the Penguins were trailing 3-0 heading into the third, Malkin spoke to his team in the dressing room.

A comeback would ensue thanks in large part to his two goal, one assist performance which included the overtime winner. There was also the matter of a $1,000 offerred by Malkin to his teammates if the game was won.

An odd technique it was, but also a huge sign of leadership abilities.

If Evgeni Malkin's career has taught us anything, it's that actions speak louder than words.

What Makes the NHL Enjoyable to Watch?

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:12:47 -0500

Nobody is perfect. A referee makes a bad call and it leads to your team losing a key match-up. It's happened to everyone I assume. You may be able to let it go and believe that the official did the job to the best of his ability.

Many would agree that it's much easier to get upset and shout at the television. Sure, I've been through it and wondered why I continue watching. At times I have even thought about going over to the dark side (Kontinental Hockey League).

Truth be told, I can't do it. The NHL is what I grew up on and I will never leave it. My favourite stars have played here and I can't just cease following their careers. This league has plenty to offer that no other can match.

Here are some things that keep me loyal to the NHL. Call it a laundry list if you will.

Henrik Lunqvist headbutting a puck out of play. Yes, he does it on purpose.
Alexander Ovechkin. Need I explain?
Martin Brodeur flashing the glove.
Zach Parise scoring from virtually everywhere.
Nikolai Zherdev finally getting the recognition he deserves.
The mean style of the Philadelphia Flyers, and of course their penalty kill.
Tim Thomas' style resembling former great Dominik Hasek's.
Evgeni Malkin quickly taking over the league.
Rookie Steve Mason carrying the Blue Jackets on his back.
The sensation that is Pavel Datsyuk's stick-handling.
Phil Kessel's toe-drag goals.
A healthy Marian Gaborik and Tim Connolly.
New Norris Trophy candidates such as Shea Weber.
Ilya Kovalchuk's one-time blast.
From Jussi Jokinen to Wojtek Wolski-the NHL's shootout kings.
Zdeno Chara man-handling opponents (cough, cough Bryan McCabe).
Sidney Crosby complaining. Hey, it is entertaining to watch.
Matthew Lombardi's speed.
Daniel Alfredsson, Dany Heatley, and Jason Spezza on one line playing at the top of their game.
Mike Green's top-shelf finishes from in close.
Patrick Kaleta finishing his checks.
Alexander Semin's quick release with the puck.
Chris Thorburn's willingness to play any position so long as he's playing.
Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane avoiding the sophomore slumps.
Chris Chelios staying in great shape to have a shot at competing.
Brian Campbell's spin-o-rama.
Bobby Ryan finding his potential.
Mikhail Grabovski becoming the first of many much needed acquisitions in Toronto.
Clutch goals from Chris Drury.
Dion Phaneuf flattening a forward.
The cycle game between Daniel and Henrik Sedin.
Craig Anderson facing 40-plus shots in a game. He seems to excel with more pucks thrown at him.
Andrei Markov's slap-pass.
Little, White, Russian line (Bryan Little, Todd White, and Slava Kozlov).
Tomas Holmstrom fighting in front of the net.
Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis wreaking havoc on the penalty kill.
Ales Hemsky's presence when he's in the Edmonton Oilers lineup.
The Los Angeles Kings playing defense-first hockey. Better late than never.
Alexei Kovalev easing his way through the defense.
Kris Versteeg getting his chance.
Jarome Iginla's willingness to do anything for the better of his team.
Ryan Getzlaf, Joe Thornton, and Johan Franzen-big men who can make big plays.
Joe Corvo calmly walking the blue line with the puck on his stick.
A one-on-one rush from Martin Havlat.
Carey Price's cool mindset.
Shawn Thornton fighting anyone and more importantly, fighting fair.
Dan Boyle resembling a forward.
Rick Nash making something out of virtually nothing.
A wild atmosphere in Minnesota.
Doug Weight, Jason Arnott, and Paul Kariya still lacing them up.
Nathan Horton's snap-shot.
Shootout moves from Mike Ribeiro.
A 6 foot 5 inch Evgeny Artyukhin flying like the wind.
Anton Volchenkov's shot-blocking.
Roberto Luongo keeping the Vancouver Canucks alive in a game.
Mark Streit proving how much of a key he was to the Montreal Canadiens powerplay.
Duncan Keith's newly found confidence.
Steve Sullivan returning to the game following a lengthy absence.
Dennis Wideman becoming one of the game's best all-round defensemen.
The Toronto Maple Leafs inability to hold a lead.
Derek Roy no longer falling on the ice so much.
Combining hits with goals. Nobody better than Dustin Brown.
Joel Ward earning a hard-fought spot in the Nashville Predators lineup.
Hockey Night in Canada.

NHL Games to Remember: Oct. 5, 2005, Washington Capitals-Columbus Blue Jackets

Rafal Ladysz — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 22:30:32 -0500

It was the moment we'd all been waiting for. With every team in action this evening, Alexander Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby were to make their much anticipated debuts. The center of attention that night was the Russian however.

Ovechkin was involved in a hit with Radoslav Suchy on his first shift against the Columbus Blue Jackets. That hit dislodged a support beam. Only problem was that he was the one delivering it. Normally, it's the other way around isn't it? A cagey veteran sends a young rookie to the ice and welcomes him to the NHL.

Not on this occasion. The game was delayed for a few minutes. Dan Fritsche opened the scoring for the Blue Jackets, taking a stretch-pass and beating Olaf Kolzig blocker side. Ovechkin required less than 30 seconds to equalize with a one-timer from the slot. The first goal of Washington's season by none other than Alexander the Great.

Luke Richardson let a shot go from the blue line a few minutes later, and a sliding Fritsche was there to bury his second of the game. Apparently, the Blue Jackets rookie was looking to outdo Ovechkin and he came pretty close.

Side note: Ovechkin's 52 goals in his rookie season are more than Fritsche has put up in his career (30).

This was Ovechkin's night though, and nobody was about to take that away. Down 2-1, the Capitals received a power play and Jeff Halpern found a loose puck in front of the net.

Rather than shooting, he fed Ovechkin for a tap-in on the left side and was quickly acknowledged by the rookie. Dainius Zubrus would convert a cross-crease pass from Halpern on another man-advantage to give Washington its first lead.

That's where the scoring ended and the Capitals hung on for a 3-2 win. Although it would be a losing season, the team had gained much. More fans were coming to watch games at the MCI Center, and they had found the building block for their future.

Ovechkin became the first rookie in team history to tally two goals in his NHL debut. If you look at the team now, the only changes are that he has more talented teammates, more sold out home matches, and a team that's fighting for their second consecutive Southeast Division title.

Oct. 5, 2005 was the birth of Alexander Ovechkin into the NHL.

A Healthy Tim Connolly Equals a Happy Buffalo Sabres Team

Rafal Ladysz — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:48:20 -0500

As much as we despise them, injuries are a part of every sport. Nothing will change that, and there's no use complaining when your favourite athlete goes down. At times, we may question the heart and desire of some players. Marian Gaborik and his constant groin issues must be making Minnesota Wild fans ache for a trade.

Tim Connolly has become the Sabres version of Gaborik: a talented player who hasn't seen the ice nearly as much as we would prefer. For those of you that recall, it was Connolly and Taylor Pyatt who came over from Long Island in exchange for Mike Peca.

An entire 2003/2004 season saw the absence of Connolly due to post-concussion syndromes. The worst part was that the concussion came in a preseason matchup with the Chicago Blackhawks. Not exactly the way you want to go on the injured reserve.

Sparks of magic began to surface the following year when Connolly appeared in 63 games and put up a highly respectably 55 points (16 goals, 39 assists). More of the same was shown in the playoffs by the New York native who totalled 11 points in just eight games.

Sadly, Connolly would suffer another concussion in game two of the Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Ottawa Senators. Up until the injury, Connolly was undoubtedly the Sabres' top forward in the postseason, and proved to be a premiere playmaker.

That same concussion would keep Connolly on the shelf until the final two contests of the 2006/2007 regular season. He scored a goal in his first game back, and contributed nine assists in 16 postseason games.

Bone spur problems were hampering Connolly for much of last season, and he eventually decided to have surgery in late March. The Sabres started the 2008/2009 season without him due to two cracked vertebrae he suffered. Preseason games may be Connolly's worst enemy because that's where he took a stick-butt to the back.

After missing 10 games, he was back, but not for long. Five games, and Connolly received a broken rib at the hands of Keith Tkachuk. To his credit, he managed six points before he went down.

He played through the pain for one game, then called it quits; out indefinitely was the status of Tim Connolly. Criticism from the fans followed, and trade rumours were swirling left and right from that point on.

Jan. 9 marked his anticipated return, but for how long? He failed to register a point in his first four games back. However, Connolly has caught fire since by scoring seven goals in six games along with two helpers.

Whatever happens in the near future, nobody can doubt the genius that is a healthy Tim Connolly. His stick-handling can't be matched by many, his vision opens up the ice for others, and he can fire home the puck when he has the chance.

Sounds a lot like Marc Savard, who's importance to Boston could be matched in Buffalo by Connolly. The big question is how long can the brilliant center remain 100 percent?

However long it may last, we should just enjoy it while we have it.

NHL Games To Remember: May 5, 2006, Buffalo Sabres 7 Ottawa Senators 6

Rafal Ladysz — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:16:28 -0500

Anticipation was the feeling before the 2005/2006 NHL season. At long last, the lockout had ended and NHL hockey would bring with it a new identity.

With the NHL back, most fans were pleased just to see their teams hit the ice for the first time in what seemed like ages.

Different approaches were taken in preparation to the first year of post-lockout hockey. Some squads decided to make a big-splash signing, such as the Philadelphia Flyers by acquiring Peter Forsberg.

Others depended highly on their draft picks to begin the re-building process and ensure a rich future. It's amazing how far Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin have brought their clubs, Pittsburgh and Washington respectively, out of the Eastern Conference basement.

The Buffalo Sabres were a huge question mark in early October, 2005. A team that was rescued from bankruptcy by Tom Golisano two years earlier in 2003 and hadn't reached the postseason since the departure of Dominik Hasek to Detroit in 2001.

Instead of searching for great talents to join the group, the Sabres picked up veteran defenders Teppo Numminen and Toni Lydman. Miroslav Satan and Alexei Zhitnik were both shipped to Long Island.

If anything, it appeared Buffalo had become a weaker squad.

There was a plan—take advantage of the NHL's new rules and play the game with tremendous speed.

And that they accomplished with a spread-out offense featuring Chris Drury, Daniel Briere, Maxim Afinogenov, Derek Roy, Jason Pominville, Ales Kotalik, J.P Dumont, Tim Connolly and Thomas Vanek.

Brian Campbell had his breakout season with 44 points from the blue line. Jay McKee was an unbelievable shot blocker throughout the season.

Most importantly, the goaltending issues were history with Ryan Miller and Martin Biron—the best one-two goaltending punch in the league.

Buffalo finished the season with a 52-24-6 record, good for 110 points and fourth place in the Eastern playoff tree. After disposing of Philadelphia in six games, the Sabres faced a massive challenge in the second round.

It was an Ottawa Senators team which had scored the most goals during the season, finished first in the East, and won five of eight meetings with Buffalo.

The hockey world was in for a great treat in game one on May 5, 2006.

The puck dropped at Scotiabank Place, the Senators home inKanata, and we were under way.

Taking the crowd out of the game is always the first goal in a road contest. Derek Roy picked up a loose puck inside Senators territory, went left towards the net, and fed Mike Grier on the right side for an open net score. Ottawa's Wade Redden and Ray Emery could only watch in shock.

Silence spread throughout the arena just 35 seconds into the game.

Less than three minutes later, Ottawa scored two goals 15 seconds apart. First, Jason Spezza took a great cross-ice pass from Dany Heatley to score in close; then Bryan Smolinski put away a rebound from an Anton Volchenkov point shot.

All of a sudden the Senators had woken up and the fans had followed.

Just before the 13 minute mark of the first, Numminen unleashed a slapshot on the power play to even the game at two all. Next, Martin Havlat beat Miller with a backhand on a breakaway less than two minutes into the second period.

Anyone who doesn't believe Tim Connolly can be a game breaker needs to watch the highlights from this game.

A stick-handling magician with the puck, Connolly can be a premier play maker when healthy.

Nonetheless, Ottawa had a man-advantage when Connolly picked up a loose puck. He faked out Daniel Alfredsson, who was playing at the point for the power play, and sent him falling to the ice.

In doing so, he created a two-on-one with Paul Gaustad.

From there, nothing but brilliance.

Connolly seemed to loose the puck from the poke-check of the defender, but managed to drag it under an outstretched stick and squeeze it between Emery and the post on the backhand.

Heatley restored the lead with a rebound goal on a power-play 46 seconds later.

Goals would continue accumulating for both sides. Roy scored a late goal with 30 seconds remaining. Grier entered the zone, fed Henrik Tallinder, who backhanded a pass to Roy for the finish.

Tied again.

Mike Fisher scored 16 seconds into the third with Miller out of position. A fortunate bounce and Ottawa led once again.

Fast forward to the last two minutes of regulation and the crowd's blood pressure began to rise.

Andrei Meszaros had pinched in on the power-play and missed the puck. Connolly and Roy came out with a two-on-one and it was played to perfection.

Connolly waited for Redden to attempt a stick-check, pulled puck back, and fed Roy for an empty net goal.

Shorthanded, Buffalo had equalized. Smolinski restored the lead just 24 seconds later off a great feed from Alfredsson. 1:13 remained on the clock and Senators fans had already begun celebrating.

As the new-style NHL has taught us, no lead is safe.

Buffalo dumped the puck in towards Emery with 20 seconds remaining. The puck came out from behind the net, and the Senator goaltender missed the chance to cover it.

In the right position, Connolly backhanded the puck top shelf and jumped in the air to celebrate. A 6-6 tie with 10.7 seconds on the clock. Overtime would follow and the first shot would likely win the game.

Surely enough, Volchenkov fumbled the puck on his end, and Grier picked it up creating a mini two-on-one with Drury. Before the second defender could return, Drury received the pass, and wristed the game winner by Emery's blocker side.

Buffalo won game one 7-6 by erasing five one-goal leads and never quitting.

This match would prove to be the indicator of the series as the Sabres disposed the Senators in five games. This kind of never-say-die attitude was displayed the entire season with the Sabres.

Many don't like high scoring matches, but they are fun to see every now and then. I don't know if I've ever experienced a more exciting NHL game since the lockout. Being a Sabres fan made it all the more special.

What Jelena Dokic's Australian Open Run Meant to the Tennis World

Rafal Ladysz — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 23:44:27 -0500

Everybody loves a Cinderella story. If, for some reason, anyone doesn't, they need to rethink their process in a hurry. When your team or athlete is eliminated from competition, it's only natural to root for the underdog.

Why not? Coming into the 2009 Australian Open in tennis, Jelena Dokic was facing a chapter in her life and career that we could only begin to understand. An Australian of Serbian descent, Dokic was a hot prospect entering the game.

As a 17-year-old qualifier in the 1999 Wimbledon, she shocked world No. 1 Martina Hingis in straight sets (6-2, 6-0) in the first round. With a ranking of 129 at the time, Dokic bowed out in the quarterfinals to Alexandra Stevenson.

Some would believe it was a fluke, but Dokic reached the semifinals of Wimbledon in 2000 before losing to Lindsey Davenport. Following some family issues, especially with her father, the young woman's game began to falter as did her ranking.

Dokic spoke about 2009 being her last opportunity at a comeback in professional tennis. Entering the Australian Open as No. 187 10 years after her first big step onto the grand stage, many didn't expect much out of Dokic.

However, with an early exit from Lleyton Hewitt, the Aussies needed to root for someone. It was a tournament which already featured chairs thrown, lit flares, a number of upsets notably on the women's side, and more retirements than we'd like to see due to the heat from hell, as one newspaper stated.

Those stories combined can't match Jelena Dokic's achievement as all eyes were on her each match.

A first-round victory over Tamira Paszek in three sets may not have been the most convincing. The win was her first at a Grand Slam since 2003.

Disposing of No. 17 Anna Chakvetadze in a second round three-setter had to bring some belief. Caroline Wozniacki (11th seed, and Alisa Kleybonova (29th seed) were the next to be taken out by the fired up Dokic.

Although each match required three sets to the finish, there were no complaints from Dokic. With a little help from the Rod Laver fans, and her great passion and desire to fight for every point, Dokic was in the quarterfinals to face No. 3 seed Dinara Safina.

Unfortunately, some good things just have to conclude eventually. Safina outlasted Dokic in yet another three-set match that lasted over two hours. The Russian was taken to the limit, but managed to survive the contest.

Dokic has already hailed her comeback story as a life changing set of events.

"It was great, I'm really looking forward to playing here again next year," she said. "It's been amazing this comeback, the second part of my career started here, thanks to this crowd. Sometimes one or two matches can change a career and a life. I think that's what's happened here."

With her efforts, Dokic will break back into the top 100 and won't be taken lightly in near future. Safina couldn't help but apologize to Rod Laver Arena following her victory.

Although Dokic eventually lost, she won the hearts of many worldwide proving that she still belongs in the game.

I'm sure all of Australia would agree.

Bobby Ryan Proving to be True Prize for Anaheim Ducks

Rafal Ladysz — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 20:14:35 -0500

"I'm glad I got drafted first, because no one remembers No. 2."

Alexandre Daigle may not have had the superb NHL career that was expected of him, but he delivered a comment that will never be forgotten in the hockey world. It holds a true meaning in some cases, but even more so when you're the No. 2 draft pick behind Sidney Crosby.

That is the set of circumstances under which Bobby Ryan was forced to enter the league in the 2005 Entry Draft as the Anaheim Ducks No. 1 pick. A major point producer for the Owen Sound Attack during his time in the OHL, Ryan was expected to do much of the same when he came to the NHL.

Ryan scored a goal in his first game, which was the first game of the 2007-08 regular season, in a match with the Los Angeles Kings in London, England. Upon failing to add any numbers in the next three games, Ryan was sent down to the AHL to join the Portland Pirates.

The New Jersey native wasn't recalled until Dec. 16, 2007. After a quick start, with two goals in as many contests, Ryan's offense dried up and he was sent back down in early January.

A Corey Perry leg injury allowed for one more call-up. Despite the opportunities, Ryan still hadn't solidified his spot in the Ducks' roster. Brian Burke, who drafted Ryan and witnessed his development in Anaheim, insisted that the 21-year-old would have to get into better shape in order to achieve full-time NHL duty.

With some assistance, Ryan was able to lose 20 pounds in the summer and reduced his body fat from 17 percent to nine percent. Arriving at training camp in September, he felt stronger, lighter, and faster.

Despite the great feeling after camp, Burke had no room for Ryan's salary upon the returns of Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne. There may have been times when other teams were on his mind, but Ryan just continued to work hard wherever he played.

Fate wouldn't allow Ryan to remain in the AHL, however, and Selanne's thigh laceration gave him another shot. Now it seems all the hard work has paid off, as Ryan has averaged a point per game (12 goals, 14 assists in 26 games) this season with the Ducks.

When looking at his play, he reminds you of Johan Franzen: a power forward who can stickhandle and make fine passes. Ryan's rapidly joining the likes of Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry to give Anaheim yet another certifiable scoring threat.

Last Thursday in Los Angeles, Ryan scored three goals in a 2:21 span, becoming the first Anaheim rookie to record a hat trick. It was also the fastest time three goals have been recorded in franchise history.

Furthermore, it marked the fastest hat trick by a rookie in the league since 1938. Despite starting his 2008-09 season in mid-November, Ryan sits fourth among rookies in points, only seven behind current leader Kris Versteeg.

With the Calder Trophy race featuring names like Versteeg, Patrik Berglund, Steve Mason, and Blake Wheeler, you can add another to the bunch. Bobby Ryan isn't headed anywhere but up—and certainly not to the minors.

Mikhail Grabovski and Sergei Kostitsyn's Feud Continues

Rafal Ladysz — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 13:39:11 -0500

Normally, hockey fights are a spur-of-the moment decision.

You look at the player next to you, get the nod, and throw your gloves on the ice.

Other times, there's plenty of emotions involved and you only want to get your hands on one individual.

Clearly, this is the case occurring between Mikhail Grabovski and Sergei Kostitsyn.

The rivalry between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens has a long history, and we have a new chapter on our hands.

Two Belarussians who are after each other's throats. Grabovski wasn't able to maintain a regular spot in the Canadiens lineup under Guy Carbonneau, and made the move to Toronto this past summer.

Nov. 8 marked the second meeting of the season (Montreal won the first 6-1) between these two clubs, and the Leafs ran over Montreal 6-3 at the Air Canada Centre. Kostitsyn took a charging penalty on his fellow countryman and received a 10-minute misconduct.

Referees had to get between the two, and Grabovski proceeded to point towards the scoreboard.

Last night, Toronto was the visiting team at the Bell Centre. Each time Grabovski touched the puck, he would receive a nice boo from the home faithful. Montreal would win 6-2, but not without some late drama once again.

Grabovski and Kostitsyn were targeting each other, and the linesmen intervened as they did the first time in Toronto. It was Toronto's Belarussian that was more fired up, and was taken down to the ice by linesman Scott Cherrey.

Upon regaining his footing, he made one last attempt to get through, and the gave Cherrey a light shove. Then, Grabovski made an exit that Richard Nixon would have been proud of.

With the crowd booing non-stop, he flashed the peace sign with both hands, and went to the dressing room. Expecting a suspension, it was announced that Grabovski got three games for his little push.

Two days ago, Jarkko Ruutu got two games for biting the hand of Andrew Peters. Was this worthy of more?

There are still three games remaining between these two Canadian teams, but the referees have interfered in letting a fight take place in the past two contests.

Former friends, and both natives of Belarus, this grudge runs so deep that Grabovski insists he will fight Kostitsyn off the ice.

"I think he is not Belarussian now, he is French because I never fight with Belarussian guys," Grabovski said. "I don't know why he wants to fight with me. If he wants to fight, we'll go in the street and every minute of every day I'll wait for him and we'll fight."

It's uncertain why these two have such bad blood, but Kostitsyn gave his reasons.

"He talks too much in the Russian papers about me and my brother," Kostitsyn said of his elder brother and teammate Andrei.

But Grabovski insists his problem only involves Sergei.

"He's not smart, because the older Kostitsyn, Andrei, he never fights with me and he never will fight because he plays hockey, he plays the game," he said. "I think it's stupid."

We'll see these two teams hit the ice next on Feb. 7 in Montreal. It's almost certain they'll cross paths once again. The question is whether or not the refs will stay out of it and let them square up.

In any event, the streets are always available to use as a ring.

Is Talent an Excuse for Shorter Suspensions in the NHL?

Rafal Ladysz — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:06:43 -0500

Chris Simon was always known as a dirty player—from his alleged racial comments towards Mike Grier in 1997 to his cross check across the throat of Peter Popovic in a 2000 playoff series against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The year 2007 was record-making for Simon, but for the all the wrong reasons. First, he cross checked Ryan Hollweg of the New York Rangers in the face in retaliation to a good hit on Mar. 8.

A 25-game suspension followed, which included all five of the New York Islanders' playoff games, and five games into the 2007/2008 season.

With six suspensions on his resume, lucky No. 7 was still to come, and it brought a massive 30-game suspension. Jarkko Ruutu, who was playing for the Penguins at the time, was near his team's bench during a match with the Islanders in December.

Simon proceeded to skate by, pulled Ruutu down to the ice on his knees, and stepped on the back of his leg. A total of 55 games handed out in one calendar year to Chris Simon.

After playing only 28 games with the Islanders, and 10 with the Minnesota Wild, Simon's NHL career was all but finished. He has been playing in the Kontinental Hockey League since.

Each ban surpassed Marty McSorley's 23-game suspension in 2000 when he knocked out Donald Brashear with a swing of the stick to his head.

Let's focus on the Ruutu incident which resulted in 30 games. What about Chris Pronger stepping on Ryan Kesler's leg last season behind the net? He did appear to hit the shin pad with his skate, but it's no excuse, is it?

There's no denying Pronger's talent offensively, but he's one of the most dangerous players in the game. Only eight games were given to Pronger. This is a guy who knocked out Tomas Holmstrom and Dean McAmmond in back-to-back playoff series' in 2007 with the Anaheim Ducks.

Each elbow was met with just a one-game suspension, and Pronger was there to hoist the Stanley Cup in the end. It just doesn't seem right to me.

Sean Avery may never return to the NHL due to a few unnecessary comments in front of the camera, yet Todd Bertuzzi is back on the ice after ending Steve Moore's career with a cheap shot in 2004.

Where's the justice there? It appears as though having talent or lacking a history of violence in the league is enough to warrant you less time off the ice.

You couldn't seem to watch the action last season without noticing a Philadelphia Flyers suspension. Randy Jones hitting Patrice Bergeron from behind, and Steve Downie and Jesse Boulerice receiving at least 20 games each for their handiwork.

Alexander Ovechkin, as much as I am a fan of his, should have been suspended in 2006/2007 for hitting Daniel Briere from behind when the Washington Capitals were hosting the Buffalo Sabres.

Perhaps Ovechkin was just trying to nudge him a little. I realize suspending the likes of Ovechkin or Sidney Crosby would hurt the NHL's rating. The fact remains that you have to do what is right in order to keep the game of hockey safe.

Star players should be punished as harshly as the guys who don't put pucks into the net regularly. A 15-game suspension on Pronger last year would have sat fine by me. Good behaviour should cut you some slack, but it shouldn't make it a walk in the park.

If that begins to take place, then we will see safer play in the league.

This just in, Jarkko Ruutu has been suspended two games for biting the hand of Andrew Peters' yesterday during a scrum between the Sabres and Ottawa Senators. Things like this just make me ache for the name of hockey.

I was watching the match yesterday and laughed at the fact that Peters received a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. Meanwhile, Ruutu was on the bench as his team enjoyed a power play.

Are the two games enough?

The Real Slava Kozlov Has Stood Up

Rafal Ladysz — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 17:50:42 -0500

One of the true impressive occurrences in the game of hockey is watching some of the older players still compete with the young up-and-coming kids. You think of veterans like Joe Sakic, Daymond Langkow, and Doug Weight when the topic is brought up.

Although the new NHL is built for plenty of speed which assists the teenagers more, there's still a fair share of crafty pros proving that youth isn't everything.

A name that often doesn't get enough mention for an athlete of this caliber is Vyacheslav "Slava" Kozlov. Originally a 45th overall pick by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft, success has followed Kozlov seemingly where ever he has competed.

This gifted forward was part of Scotty Bowman's "Russian Five" unit in Motown consisting of himself, Sergei Fedorov, and Igor Larionov at the front with Vladimir Konstantinov, and Viacheslav Fetisov on the defensive end.

It was Larionov and Fetisov who were viewed as father figures to the remaining three Russians. A dangerous group constantly on the ice, these five talented individuals played a major role in Detroit's 1997 Stanley Cup success.

Fetisov and Larionov have both been inducted in the Hockey Hall of Fame, and the remaining three may follow. Of course, Konstantinov's unfortunate accident hurt the organization, but he's still never been forgotten.

Meanwhile, Fedorov surpassed Alexander Mogilny's record for most goals scored by a Russian-born player (473) on October 25th of this year. Kozlov was traded to Buffalo in exchange for Dominik Hasek in 2001.

One injury-plagued season was all the Sabres received, and Slava was traded to Atlanta. He scored 20 goals or more in each of his first four seasons with the Thrashers, and totalled at least 70 points three times.

Then, he hit a bit of a rough patch last year with just 41 points in 82 games. All it takes is one bad campaign for people to lose their faith in you. It's happened to many players, and I ask myself why they are immediately labelled "has-beens," or "nobodies."

So, sitting in a friend's basement at around 3:00 a.m. during my live fantasy hockey draft, I got to thinking. Only a few rounds were remaining, and the list wasn't bearing anymore superstar names.

I don't know how many would call this a risk, but I chose Kozlov in the 10th or 11th round. Immediately, the insults followed.

"What are you thinking?"

"You must be tired to pick him."

"He was terrible last year."

Considering he was great the previous four seasons, those were odds I was willing to gamble with. Kozlov doesn't receive enough credit for what he brings to the table: experience, smooth passing, awareness, terrific hockey sense, and a remarkable shot.

Atlanta has completed 36 games thus far in 2008/2009, and Kozlov has scored 15 goals to go along with 19 assists for 34 points. Ilya Kovalchuk is sitting on 11 goals, and may not reach 40 or 50 this time around.

Will the accusations follow him? I highly doubt it. Just because he is Ilya Kovalchuk, as Alexander Ovechkin is himself. On a line with Bryan Little, and Todd White, Kozlov has proved that his hockey career isn't nearing it's finish just yet.

One of the few things Atlanta fans have had to smile about. Shootouts are another area you'll find this Russian succeeding in. Anyone who wants to learn how to beat goaltenders one-on-one, look no further than this goal.

Take a note, and practice. Don't make the mistake in ignoring the name of Vyacheslav Kozlov in the NHL. I just looked at today's stats, and noticed that another assist was near his name.

Make that 35 points in 37 games.