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November 30, 2009
The Hockey News has been providing the most comprehensive coverage of the world of hockey since 1947. In each issue, you'll find news, features and opinions about the NHL and leagues across North America and the world.
Montreal
CROSSROADS Now in his third pro season and eligible to become a restricted free agent next summer, there’s plenty of debate as to whether the Price is right in Montreal. No player in any city comes under more scrutiny than a Canadiens goaltender, and it’s no different for Carey Price, selected fifth overall in 2005. He was a fan favorite early in his career, proving sensational as a rookie. But he was vilified last season, when he suffered from a sophomore jinx. It didn’t help when photos of him in certain social situations starting circulating on the Internet. His playoff numbers were staggeringly poor during the Canadiens’ four-game opening-round elimination against Boston. Price lost all four games, had a 4.11 goals-against average and save percentage of .878. Plus he lost his cool with…
Tampa Bay
CROSSROADS When Antero Niittymaki was signed as a backup to a bargain $600,000 contract, the questions were: How much time would he get behind Mike Smith? How would his hips, which had undergone three surgeries, hold up? Now, the question is: How did Tampa Bay luck out? Six weeks into the season, Niittymaki, 29, had the hot hand – a league-leading .940 save percentage – and was getting No. 1 playing time. If he continues to shine, the effect on his career is clear. It will translate into a bigger contract and perhaps a bigger role either with Tampa Bay or another team. The Lighting took a chance on a player with a lot to prove. So far, it has paid off.…
THE NEXT BIG GOALIE
SWEDEN IS NOT KNOWN for its goaltenders, but there are now five Swedish netminders in the NHL, headed by perennial Vezina Trophy-candidate Henrik Lundqvist and Maple Leafs rookie Jonas Gustavsson. But the best of the bunch may be yet to come. In 2007-08, Jacob Markstrom saved his team, Brynas, from relegation with two shutouts in nine Elitserien qualification-round games, a save percentage above .930 and a 1.78 goals-against average. Last season he took another step forward, playing 35 of Brynas’ 55 games and posting a 2.38 GAA and .917 save percentage. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. There was a puck to the throat that gave Markstrom – and Brynas fans – a scare last season; the diving accusations at the 2009 World Junior Championship, where Team Sweden came up short…
Florida
CROSSROADS Gregory Campbell had a career season in 2008-09, centering a line with Radek Dvorak and Ville Peltonen, scoring 13 goals and 32 points, both career highs. But Campbell got off to a rough start this season and was moved to the wing after registering just one assist through 15 games. He signed a two-year deal with the Panthers prior to 2008-09, so he’ll be looking for a new contract at the end of the season – either with Florida or someone else. Campbell is as hard a worker as one will find and tough, too. In early November, he took a slap shot to the face and had significant damage. But after being stitched up he was back in the lineup the next game.…
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