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August 1, 2006
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.
Minnesota cashes in
OK, it took a year longer than expected for the Minnesota Wild to finally grasp the fact in the new salary cap world, its checkbook can carry just as much muscle and influence as the Red Wings, Rangers and Maple Leafs. It took fans – the same loyal ones who had amazingly sold out all 228 home games in franchise history – threatening to drop season tickets. It took media scrutiny, highlighted by its owner being named ‘Turkey of the Year’ by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. It took star Marian Gaborik executing his most daunting power play to date: warning very publicly that he’d bail next summer as a 25-year-old free agent if there wasn’t a true commitment to winning shown this summer. But still, even though the Wild hinted the team’s “fiscally responsible”…
Centers get attention; Kessel tops B’s list
TOP PICK Phil Kessel, C (5th overall). His stock dropped, but his offensive gifts are undeniable. In his freshman year at the University of Minnesota, Kessel tallied 51 points in 39 games. An excellent skater, scouts say he has at least one extra gear. If Kessel returns to college for his sophomore season, it will likely be his last. It has been said Kessel, nicknamed ‘Thrill,’ hangs on to the puck too long at times. Bruins assistant GM Jeff Gorton has his own take: “To play with him, you’ve got to be a pretty good player. You’d better be able to skate. In some cases, he didn’t have people who could keep up with him.” DRAFT RECAP Half of Boston’s six remaining picks were centers, addressing a need at that position.…
Russell takes reins as Mooseheads boss
Cam Russell has quite a list of coaching influences. “I’ve had some great coaches,” said the former NHL defenseman after being named coach of his hometown Halifax Mooseheads in July. “I had Pat Burns, Alain Vigneault, Mike Keenan and Darryl Sutter, but probably the most influential coaches I had were in minor hockey because they really taught me the game.” Now, Russell wants to returning the favor. “I’m looking forward to hopefully being able to give back to these kids,” he said. “I’m fortunate to be given this opportunity and I’m really excited about it. It’s a fun age group to coach because the kids are keen and motivated to make it to the next level.” Following his 10-year playing career, Russell worked five seasons for the Mooseheads, serving as an assistant and later…
Playmaker Brassard perfect for Nash
TOP PICK Derick Brassard, C (6th overall). Brassard’s playmaking ability – his vision and understanding of the game at such a young age – are what most excited the Blue Jackets, who see him feeding pucks to star winger Rick Nash in a couple of seasons. With Gilbert Brule already on the squad, the Jackets look to be strong up the middle for years to come. Brassard will get a long look in training camp, but he’ll need to bulk up a bit. On a 6-foot frame, 172 pounds won’t cut it in the NHL. DRAFT RECAP Goalie Steve Mason played only eight regular season games with the London Knights (stuck behind Sabres prospect Adam Dennis), but the Jackets became enamored with him after a 52-save performance in February, drafting him…
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