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January 20, 1995
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.
Man for all reasons
Everything you need to know about hockey, you can learn from studying Ron Francis. Need a lesson in the techniques of the faceoff, watch the Pittsburgh Penguins’ center operate in the circle. Note that while he is almost perfect deep in either his own or his opponent’s territory, Francis is mediocre in neutral zone draws. It’s not a lack of attention, concentration along with excellent hand skills are the premier weapons in Francis’ arsenal. It’s just that neutral zone faceoffs are off-Broad-way events and Francis saves his sleekest performances for the crucial moments. “If I’m struggling with a guy, I’ll experiment in the neutral zone,” Francis explained. “If I have a technique that I think I can beat him with, I won’t use it in the neutral zone. I’ll save it for the…
LaFontaine ready to go
Buffalo Sabres’ fans can breathe a big sigh of relief. Pat LaFontaine will be ready when play resumes. LaFontaine frightened fans and team management when he pulled out of a union-sponsored exhibition event in Hamilton,. Ont., in November because his surgically-repaired right knee swelled up. “This was a case of me being my own worst enemy,” LaFontaine said. “I was pushing myself too hard. Dr. (John) Marzo (the Sabres’ orthopedic consultant) ordered me to get off my feet and do no skating until he okayed it.” Since Marzo is also on the National Football League’s Buffalo Bills’ medical staff, LaFontaine has taken a “football” approach to rehabilitating the repaired anterior cruciate ligament. He has been a frequent visitor to the Bills’ training room where he does strength and conditioning work. It has been more than…
USA comes in at No. 5
RED DEER. Alta.-Failure and frustration are old friends of the United States at the World Junior Championship. Jeff Jackson made it an unhappy trio this year. The U.S. head coach, who has won two national championships in three years with Lake Superior State University, came to the tournament with hopes his team would win a medal. He left with a touch of pneumonia, the first three-game losing streak of his life and a complete inability to grasp how a team with so much talent could play so inconsistently. The U.S. had some of the best players in college hockey and an impressive array of major junior stars, but could do no better than 3-4-0 to finish fifth. The Americans had a great start with a win over Russia and a great finish with one over…
Daigle shows true colors with Canada’s golden boys
Alexandre Daigle won gold with Canada’s national junior team, making him something he hasn’t been with the Ottawa Senators yet-a winner. Daigle’s 51-point regular season last year and $12.25-million contract for five years have made the Senators a lightning rod for criticism. His contract has caused envy and even been blamed for the current lockout. Senators’ general manager Randy Sexton chooses not to evaluate the deal until after the five years. But Daigle’s performance at the World Junior Championship has given Sexton and director of player personnel John Ferguson a reason-if they needed it-to sleep easier. Playing on Team Canada’s top line, Daigle was everything he wasn’t with the Senators-inspired, confident, creative and unafraid to get involved in the physical game. “I’m totally thrilled with Daigle.” Ferguson said. “I feel this is the greatest tonic…
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