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March 31, 2000
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.
Utah makes case for defense with trade deadline dealings
Considering the alternative was probably to stand pat and sink, the last-minute measures employed by Utah Grizzlies’ coach-GM Bob Bourne to shore up his lineup could pay big dividends in the Turner Cup playoffs. Depleted by injuries and NHL call-ups, particularly on defense, the Grizzlies had dropped out of first place in the International League’s Western Conference and their prospects for post-season success were dimming. But March 16, the final day for roster adjustments, Utah emerged with a stronger lineup after the acquisition of defenseman Ted Crowley and goalie Rick Tabaracci from the Cleveland Lumberjacks, in exchange for goalie Ian Gordon, right winger Joe Frederick and center Sean Berens. Utah had secured the rights to Berens and current defensemen Taj Melson and Brendan Buckley from the Chicago Wolves in return for veteran blueliner…
Forgotten blueliner Sweeney sure to be tempted by offers
Don Sweeney has made a fine career out of going unnoticed. That certainly applies to this year. Given all the disappointment and controversy surrounding the Boston Bruins, the steady season Sweeney is having has been all but forgotten. That’s no surprise, but the fact that Sweeney is still a Bruin may be. Sweeney, 33, has been the club’s most steady blueliner and was heavily rumored to be on the move at the trading deadline. His statistics-one goal and 11 points in 69 games-aren’t a clear measure of his value. Although the Bruins say they would like to retain his services past this season, he’s certain to generate considerable interest from other teams when he becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer. As the father of twin sons, Sweeney said part of his decision-making…
Trio of quality goalies moving up
The Ottawa Senators used to give their prospects a baptism by fire. Time spent in the minors wasn’t an option. Most could handle the pressure. Alexei Yashin, Wade Redden and Marian Hossa turned out fine (though few expect to see Yashin in Senators’ colors again). Radek Bonk took a while to mature, but he has come around and third-year NHLer Chris Phillips appears to be another late-bloomer. Alexandre Daigle was the only true bust. But as the organization prepares to enter its ninth season next year, the focus has changed. No longer is the pressure on prospects to carry the Sens. Instead, Ottawa is in die developmental game, particularly with goalies. “I think you can always improve your prospects,” said Senators’ GM Marshall Johnston. “We like the people we have, but you can…
Une juggling begins anew with Nieuwendyk’s return
In a season dragged down by countless injuries, the Dallas Stars had almost forgotten what a powerful combination the 1-2 punch of Mike Modano and Joe Nieuwendyk can be. The return of a healthy Nieuwendyk for the stretch run could be the biggest key to getting the Stars back to where they were last year. After missing 21 games with a separated right shoulder, Nieuwendyk said he was looking forward to getting back into the race. “I had a hard time being away, it wasn’t easy,” Nieuwendyk said. “But now I feel energized, my legs feel great. I’m just ready to get back in.” “When we have both Mike and Joe going, it presents a big problem to any team trying to check us,” said Stars’ coach Ken Hitchcock. “If we have both…
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