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January 31, 1997

January 31, 1997

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.

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Milbury, Pilon lose cool as Islanders lose games

Frustration stemming from a long losing streak resulted in a suspension for New York Islanders defenseman Rich Pilon and an ejection for coach-GM Mike Milbury. Pilon was suspended two games by the NHL after a stick-swinging duel with Pittsburgh Penguins’ center Mario Lemieux Jan. 10. Milbury was ejected after the first period of the same game for reprising Jim Schoenfeld’s 1988 comments by cursing referee Don Koharski and reportedly adding, “have another donut, Koho.” Milbury later indicated he was trying to get himself thrown out, hoping to light a fire under his slumping team. Milbury was upset about several penalties Koharski called in the period. Linder an NHL by-law, Milbury could be fined up to $10,000 for making a statement “critical of the league officiating staff.” Pilon, meanwhile, said Lemieux slashed him on his…

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Swift Current’s fine season overshadowed by scandal

The Swift Cunent Broncos’ fine season is being overshadowed by the commotion surrounding Graham James. Swift Current boasted a 28-16-2 Western League record and was the ninth-ranked team in the Canadian Hockey League. Even so, James-who coached Swift Current from 1986 to 1994-has been the topic of conversation. James was sentenced to a 3-1/2-year prison term Jan. 2 after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting Sheldon Kennedy and another former Bronco. (See pg. 5 for more on James.) “It’s a serious issue,” said Broncos’ center Josh St Louis. “People have a right to feel the way they feel. But we’re having a good season and it’s nice to be recognized, too.” Broncos’ coach-GM Todd McLellan echoes those sentiments. “The biggest thing I’m concerned about is we’ve got 24 players who come out every night and work…

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EHI brings the best out of players

People Making a Difference. That is what we all strive to be and that is what makes this world great. At EHI we have spent years researching and studying firsthand the game of hockey and the people who play it. Now we are offering this expertise to you, making a difference in the lives of those who play. Initially, a youth hockey school in 1990, EHI had the mandate to instruct through an emphasis on fundamentals, dedication, and fun. We notice changes as we return to communities each year, skills improve and develop, but more importantly attitudes change. Through the life lessons of teamwork, and responsibility our students are more willing to tackle obstacles and accept criticism, better equipped for life and the arena. We make a difference. Our background in the professional ranks and intimate…

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Coaches primed to organize association

Scotty Bowman has coached six Stanley Cup champions and will retire with more than 1,000 career victories. Bowman’s legacy among his peers, however, could be his involvement in the formation of an NHL coaches’ association. The Detroit Red Wings’ coach and director of player personnel has been instrumental in getting today’s NHL coaches to realize there is plenty to be gained by banding together. “I don’t see a day when coaches are unionized to the point where there has to be a base salary or anything like that,” Bowman said. “But there is a need for some standardization in other areas. Coaches need protection.” Bowman is referring to medical and pension plans, as well as marketing rights. Most medical and dental plans provided to a coach expire three months after he is fired. He has…