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.

September 23, 2003

The Hockey News September 23, 2003

<div class="byline">BY KEVIN OKLOBZIJA</div>The Utah Grizzlies&rsquo; search for another veteran leader at forward ended with the signing of right winger Rob Valicevic.Valicevic, 32, has played 176 NHL games in his seven-year pro career, including 10 last season with Anaheim. He has scored 28 goals and 48 points for Nashville, Los Angeles and Anaheim.Valicevic takes the place of right winger Jim Montgomery, the Grizzlies&rsquo; leading scorer a season ago, who is expected to play in Europe. Valicevic, who was chosen 114th overall by the New York Islanders in 1991, scored 17 goals and 43 points in 69 American League games for Cincinnati last year.While he&rsquo;s slated to skate in Utah, the parent Dallas Stars signed him to a two-way contract because he can play all three forward positions. Valicevic played for Stars coach Dave Tippett when the Houston Aeros won the old International League&rsquo;s Turner Cup in 1998-99.<h2>AHL WEST NOTEBOOK</h2><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-02924/8473916-1-eng-US/f0022-022.jpg" title="f0022-02" width="242" height="243"></div>BROWN OUT After 16 years in pro hockey, including 543 games in the NHL, right winger Rob Brown has called it quits. And to think he was always told he&rsquo;d never make it.&ldquo;I was told I was too small, couldn&rsquo;t skate and couldn&rsquo;t shoot,&rdquo; said Brown, 35. &ldquo;Some people who were better than me didn&rsquo;t make it and I did. It worked out much better than I anticipated.&rdquo;Brown scored 190 goals and 438 points in the NHL for Pittsburgh, Hartford, Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles. His last NHL season was 1999-2000 with the Penguins. His most productive campaign was 1988-89, when he scored 49 goals and 115 points as Mario Lemieux&rsquo;s right winger.Brown helped the Chicago Wolves win the Calder Cup in 2001-02 and returned this past season for an encore.When he signed last year for one more AHL season, he announced it would be his last.NOTEBOOK Right winger Tim Skarperud and blueliner Aaron Schneekloth will be teammates once again. Members of the 2000 NCAA champions at the University of North Dakota, the duo will be sporting the colors of the Grand Rapids Griffins this season. Skarperud scored 12 goals and 29 points in 68 games as an AHL rookie last season, while Schneekloth spent most of the season with South Carolina of the East Coast League&hellip;Milwaukee signed 6-foot-4, 245-pound blueliner Raitis Ivanans to an AHL contract. The 24-year-old played primarily with Rockford of the United League last season.<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-03702/8473909-1-eng-US/f0022-032.jpg" title="f0022-03" width="1000" height="1480"><figcaption class="caption-body">Doug Houda, who played for Rochester the past four years, is retiring after 16 pro seasons to become an assistant coach with the Americans.</figcaption></div><h2>HOCKEY NATION AT A GLANCE</h2><div class="container"><div class="figure-block image-float"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-04512/8473902-1-eng-US/f0022-042.jpg" title="f0022-04" width="147" height="149"></div>The International Ice Hockey Federation is the world&rsquo;s governing body for hockey. In each issue this season, we profile one of 63 national association members.</div><div style="clear: both;"></div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-05382/8473895-1-eng-US/f0022-052.jpg" title="f0022-05" width="544" height="266"></div>BELGIUM<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-06300/8473888-1-eng-US/f0022-062.jpg" title="f0022-06" width="485" height="672"></div>Major league (seven teams)Honorary Division2003 champion Phantoms Deurne2003 top scorersMiroslav Nemcek, HeistJozef Mihalik, HerentalsMaros Bartek, DeurneAssociation e-mail<a href="mailto:kbijf.frbhg@skynet.be">kbijf.frbhg@skynet.be</a>Head officeTremelo, Belgium2003 world ranking No. 30 &#9632;

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DEPARTMENTS

Utah adds versatile Valicevic

<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-08153/8474361-1-eng-US/f0024-082.jpg" title="f0024-08" width="252" height="189"></div><div class="container"><div class="figure-block image-float"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-09134/8474354-1-eng-US/f0024-092.jpg" title="f0024-09" width="131" height="115"></div>Arena Moncton Coliseum Capacity 6,450 GM Allan Power Coach Christian LaRue9th SEASON IN QMJHLBEST 44-23-5 in 1999-2000HIGHEST NHL DRAFT PICKSSteve Bernier, 16th, SJ, &rsquo;03J-F Damphousse, 24th, NJ, &rsquo;97S. Lajeunesse, 48th, Ott, &rsquo;99</div><div style="clear: both;"></div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-10114/8474347-1-eng-US/f0024-102.jpg" title="f0024-10" width="451" height="253"></div> &#9632;

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MONCTON WILDCATS

<div class="byline">-NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-06366/8473097-1-eng-US/f0015-062.jpg" title="f0015-06" width="277" height="583"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-05458/8473104-1-eng-US/f0015-052.jpg" title="f0015-05" width="216" height="264"></div>Red Wings brass will use training camp to focus their attention on forwards Jiri Hudler and Jason Williams.Hudler has a lot of skill, but he&rsquo;s small-and only 19 years old.&ldquo;He&rsquo;s a real unknown,&rdquo; GM Ken Holland said. &ldquo;Our biggest concern with Jiri is that he plays. I&rsquo;m not going to be satisfied if he&rsquo;s just good enough to be on the roster but he&rsquo;s not good enough to play.&rdquo;Williams has contributed in the past, but he could have done more last season with the Wings&rsquo; Grand Rapids (AHL) affiliate.&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve got to find out where Jason&rsquo;s at,&rdquo; Holland said. &ldquo;This is a big, big year for him. He&rsquo;s got to go through waivers to get sent down. I don&rsquo;t see him clearing waivers.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Dominik Hasek is Dominik Hasek. He&rsquo;s also 38 and hasn&rsquo;t played hockey in almost a year and a half. Can he be the Dominator again? The Wings think so.Hasek is known for hard work, so expect to see him shaking the rust off his unorthodox technique by doing extra drills in camp-even foiling imaginary shooters at an empty end of the rink-and playing often in exhibitions. He says his competitive fire is back.Manny Legace isn&rsquo;t a big guy, but he finds a way to make saves and has been the best backup in the league lately. Curtis Joseph would be ahead of Legace on the depth chart, but because of Hasek&rsquo;s return he is on his way out of Detroit, ideally as soon as he recovers from ankle surgery.NOTEBOOK Needless to say, right winger Brett Hull didn&rsquo;t watch too much of the defense-first hockey after the Wings were swept in the first round by Anaheim. &ldquo;It shows you where the game has gone,&rdquo; Hull said. &ldquo;To me, that&rsquo;s why the game is not popular&hellip;They&rsquo;ve got to do something to change the game.&rdquo; &#9632;

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NHL TEAM REPORTS

Holland faces choice over forwards’ future

<div class="image-hero"><img title="Cover-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/cover-011040/8475125-1-eng-US/cover-012.jpg"></div>PAYING TRIBUTE TO GILMOUR. RICHTERMAJOR JUNIOR PREVIEWSBurning passion fuels Detroit legend&rsquo;s returnSTEVE YZERMAN30 NHL Goalie ZonesWhy Brophy Likes BoltsDenis Leary&rsquo;s Nickname Rant &#9632;

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IN THIS ISSUE

STEVIE Tells Us WHY

<div class="image-hero"><img title="f0003-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0003-011983/8472134-1-eng-US/f0003-012.jpg"><figcaption class="caption-body">Unwanted by the Leafs, a calm and composed Doug Gilmour holds court in a Toronto bistro to announce his NHL days are through. See pgs. 6, 8.</figcaption></div> &#9632;

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KILLER EYES

<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0004-011937/8472186-1-eng-US/f0004-012.jpg" title="f0004-01" width="294" height="336"><figcaption class="caption-body">EDITOR&rsquo;S NOTEBOOK&nbsp;Jason Kay Editor</figcaption></div>Greetings class and welcome to Netology 101. My name is Mr. Kay and I&rsquo;ll be your teacher.OK, teacher may be too strong a word, but I do have a crease history. Three games in house league as a seven-year-old taught me all I needed to know about the perils of net life. But I digress.Today&rsquo;s lesson is the microscope. Later in the season, we&rsquo;ll use it to inspect shrinking goalie stats. For now, we&rsquo;ll put a handful of goalies under it. Make sure they&rsquo;re firmly in place because these specimens will be there much of the season.DOMINIK HASEK, DETROIT &lsquo;The Dominator&rsquo; is back, but how &ldquo;back&rdquo; is he? There are those in the hockey community who are assuming he&rsquo;ll be the all-world presence he was for much of the 1990s. But know this: Hasek, during his last few years in the NHL, was relatively inconsistent at the start of seasons. (See accompanying table.) Now, at 38 and not having played competitively in more than a year, he&rsquo;s bound to have more rust than a 1976 Pinto. If he can&rsquo;t get the Tremclad to work pronto, Detroit will become unseasonably hot in December.CURTIS JOSEPH, DETROIT? You may need a microscope to find Joseph if the Wings can&rsquo;t move him by the time the season opens. Assuming they do, he&rsquo;ll have much to prove. There are two schools of thought on the 36-year-old: 1) He&rsquo;s a reflex goalie whose quickness has started to erode.When that happens, things go south quickly; and, 2) He&rsquo;s used to overcoming adversity.Remember, Joseph entered the NHL as a free agent, beating long odds. That &ldquo;prove them wrong&rdquo; mentality should not be underestimated. We&rsquo;ll go with the latter hypothesis.<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0004-021632/8472179-1-eng-US/f0004-022.jpg" title="f0004-02" width="2533" height="3203"><figcaption class="caption-body">PLAYOFF PAYOFF&nbsp;New Jersey&rsquo;s Martin Brodeur leads the pack in post-season wins among active goaltenders.</figcaption></div><div class="sidebar">For more on each team&rsquo;s goaltending situation, check out the Goalie Zone in our NHL team reports, pgs. 13-21</div>FELIX POTVIN, BOSTON Is he the answer? It depends on the question. If you want a serviceable No. 1 NHL goalie with the ability to get hot in the playoffs, Potvin fits the description. He has won 35 post-season games in his career, sixth-most among active NHL netminders. (See accompanying graphic.) The Stanley Cup is another story. That said, the Bruins need more than a stud goaltender to put them into championship contention.JOSE THEODORE, MONTREAL From Hart attack to shark attack, Theodore&rsquo;s plunge has been as spectacular as a bungee jump. This year will be a test of the bungee cord&rsquo;s resiliency. The Montreal media can be ferocious and relentless when it comes to hockey star controversy. We know by his 2001-02 run, Theodore has the skill. The question now is, does he have the will?JEAN-SEBASTIEN GIGUERE, ANAHEIM Giguere is traveling a similar path to the one taken by Theodore. He emerged from relative obscurity to forge an award-winning season, followed by a summer of contract negotiation. Theodore was accused of enjoying the spoils of his triumphs a little too much last off-season and not paying enough attention to conditioning. The same can&rsquo;t be said of Giguere. He enjoyed a relatively quiet summer-highlighted by his wedding-and is expected to be in top shape. Still, he&rsquo;ll have to contend with expectations that have inflated higher than gas prices based on his play last season and a shiny, new contract.DAVID AEBISCHER, COLORADO How do you fill Size 50 skates? Ostensibly, that&rsquo;s the task facing the Avs&rsquo; new No. 1 man, who replaces the greatest goalie of all-time. Aebischer certainly won&rsquo;t be confused with Patrick Roy in terms of demeanor; the 25-year-old Swiss native is as quiet as they come. He does possess a certain level of confidence, but can also be shaky. Over his first two years, he had a penchant for allowing goals very early and/or late in games. And don&rsquo;t be fooled into believing anyone can win behind Colorado&rsquo;s potent lineup. Last year, Avs goalies were in the middle of the pack in shots faced (2,323) and that figure could increase if the team plays a more wide-open style to accommodate their newcomers.<h2>NOT-SO DOMINANT EARLY</h2>During his last five seasons, Dominik Hasek&rsquo;s goals-against averages (GAA) and save percentages (SP) were noticeably weaker out of the gate compared to his final numbers.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0004-031328/8472172-1-eng-US/f0004-032.jpg" title="f0004-03" width="910" height="274"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0004-041079/8472165-1-eng-US/f0004-042.jpg" title="f0004-04" width="414" height="224"></div> &#9632;

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Goalies under scrutiny

<div class="byline">-MARK BRENDER</div><div class="image-hero"><img title="f0005-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0005-011944/8472248-1-eng-US/f0005-012.jpg"><figcaption class="caption-body">ELBOW SHOT? A soft-cap elbow pad on Nashville&rsquo;s Scott Hartnell still might knock Mike York down, but hopefully not out.</figcaption></div>Breaking news: The NHL and NHL Players&rsquo; Association have found a soft cap they both can live with. It&rsquo;s made by Jofa.Strange as it may seem, all 650-plus NHL skaters will be wearing the same make and model of elbow pads this season as the NHL continues its crackdown on unsafe playing equipment.Hard-capped elbow pads have been blamed for contributing to the rash of head injuries that has plagued the NHL in recent seasons. Two years ago the league&rsquo;s injury committee notified manufacturers that the hard plastic was on its way out. Prior to last season the five or six manufacturers who had NHL players wearing their elbow pads were given specifications for the required soft padding, one-half inch thick, and tools to measure compliance. Only two manufacturers, Jofa being one of them, submitted elbow pad prototypes for league approval. The other company&rsquo;s model was rejected because the pad caps were too rigid, so Jofa was left with the entire NHL market.NHL equipment and safety consultant Dave Dryden said the Jofa model will probably gain prominence in the American League since all players called up to the NHL will have to wear them.Nobody is expecting this step alone will solve the concussion problem.&ldquo;When you get two guys who are 210 pounds, skating at a high rate of speed going into the boards and one guy gets his elbow up, is it the elbow or the boards? I don&rsquo;t know. I guess you take as many precautions as you can,&rdquo; said Edmonton defenseman Scott Ferguson to the Can West News Service.Phoenix is the last team to use the inflexible glass and board systems, but that will change when the Coyotes move into their new arena in December.Dryden said hard surfaces on shoulder pads are on the injury committee&rsquo;s agenda. The goal, he said, is to have equipment that protects players giving hits without doing damage to those on the receiving end. &ldquo;And now technology is at a point where you should be able to have both.&rdquo;<h2>CONCUSSIONS CONTINUE</h2>The rate of concussions in the NHL has been steady in the past few seasons. Here are the number of concussions per 1,000 NHL games for five recent seasons. Figures for 2002-03 were not available. Source: The Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences/THN.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0005-04578/8472241-1-eng-US/f0005-042.jpg" title="f0005-04" width="886" height="577"></div> &#9632;

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FEATURES & COLUMNS

One elbow pad fits all

<h2>Best of the Hockey World</h2>KILLER CAREER One of the NHL&rsquo;s all-time gritty and inspirational players, Doug Gilmour retires after 20 NHL seasons.RIGHT DIRECTION The NHL&rsquo;s decision to allow only elbow pads with a soft cap to be worn by all players is a proactive step in the right direction.LUUUUKE! Veteran defenseman Luke Richardson, who is more likely to lead by example than cheering, is named captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0005-021391/8472286-1-eng-US/f0005-022.jpg" title="f0005-02" width="254" height="410"><figcaption class="caption-body">DOUG GILMOUR</figcaption></div><h2>Worst of the Hockey World</h2>COMRIE SAGA The Oilers going to war with one of their top forwards, hometown lad Mike Comrie, is not an ideal way to start the season.NO WAY TO TREAT A VET Publicly announcing the Leafs are no longer interested in Doug Gilmour before telling him to his face is just wrong.NOW PROVE US WRONG Baie-Comeau, Belleville and Everett are picked by The Hockey News to finish last in their respective junior leagues.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0005-03904/8472279-1-eng-US/f0005-032.jpg" title="f0005-03" width="255" height="409"><figcaption class="caption-body">MIKE COMRIE</figcaption></div> &#9632;

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PLUS MINUS

<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0005-06239/8472317-1-eng-US/f0005-062.jpg" title="f0005-06" width="286" height="460"><figcaption class="caption-body">JAROME IGINLA</figcaption></div>From around the NHL<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0005-05374/8472324-1-eng-US/f0005-052.jpg" title="f0005-05" width="171" height="146"></div>&bull; The battle lines over Marty Turco&rsquo;s contract have hardened because of the J-S Giguere signing-roughly $20 million over four years. One source familiar with the ultra-competitive, ultra-confident Turco insisted this summer the Dallas goalie wouldn&rsquo;t take a penny less than his Anaheim counterpart. The latest offer Turco reportedly turned down was $12 million over three years.&bull; So Darryl Sutter the coach wants more out of Jarome Iginla the scorer. It&rsquo;s a safe bet Iginla wants more out of Sutter the GM-especially with the departure of Chris Drury.&bull; Canadian historians George and Darril Fosty have written a self-published book titled Splendid Is the Sun: The 5,000-Year History of Hockey. Kind of puts that Montreal-Halifax debate to rest, doesn&rsquo;t it?&bull; Boston&rsquo;s Felix Potvin will become the second active goalie to play for three Original Six teams. The first was the man he replaced, Jeff Hackett.&bull; You can&rsquo;t argue with success, so Lou Lamoriello continues to do things his own way. The Devils GM has no use for the increasingly popular rookie tournaments. &ldquo;It does me no good to see how they play against other people,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s how they fit in our own organization.&rdquo; The Devils have 60 players in camp-including rookies. &#9632;

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SNAPSHOTS

Hockey News FROM THE EDITORSIf they had only Doug Gilmour as a guide, sports psychologists would be spending their entire careers trying to make sense of the curiously inverse relationship in the NHL between size and performance: the smaller the man, the bigger the result.They could call it the Gilmour Principle, but they would have to be very clear about what it says so as not to confuse people.It does not mean that a team of 4-foot-6, 130-pounders would necessarily beat up on the Broad Street Bullies.It does mean the little guys would have a better chance if, for two months every spring, they morphed down to 4-foot-4 and 120 pounds.Crazy as it seems, Gilmour did it time and again. He&rsquo;d make it through to mid-April looking like a normal, 5-foot-11, 170-pound human being. And then, without warning or announcement, his body began to shrivel up like a prune. Dark bags appeared under his eyes. His gruff five o&rsquo;clock shadow gave way to an haggard old man&rsquo;s beard. The chin strap, forever dangling, now hung to his shoulder pads, giving the appearance of a 13-year-old playing in his big brother&rsquo;s gear.And Doug Gilmour would be playing the best hockey of his life. This is the battling spirit that will be missed most upon the retirement of one of hockey&rsquo;s all-time warriors.The overused sport-as-war analogy is a dubious one at the best of times, yet it fits here because Gilmour somehow took on war&rsquo;s pains. After games he emerged from the dressing room neither polished nor dapper. He always looked exactly what he was-beat up, tired, picked on, a target. Didn&rsquo;t matter a whit once he got on the ice.There is no way to predict it. There is no way of telling that an undersized junior scoring star out of Kingston, Ont., via Cornwall, would one day be the subject of a nine-hour TV tribute-nine flippin&rsquo; hours!-on ESPN Classic Canada (it was scheduled to air Sept. 13, from noon to 9 p.m.) If there was, the Hart Trophy runner-up to Mario Lemieux in 1992-93 would have been the first pick in the 1982 NHL entry draft instead of the 134th.It&rsquo;s unfortunate how his career officially came to a close, with a farewell press conference in a downtown Toronto restaurant rather than at the Air Canada Centre. Leafs GM John Ferguson can&rsquo;t be faulted for saying Gilmour wasn&rsquo;t in the team&rsquo;s plans, but it would have been nice had he the foresight to tell Gilmour first, even though the former captain was not under contract and was trying to come back from a serious knee injury. It showed a lack of respect. For all Gilmour did for the franchise, he deserved more.The legend of the big-playing little guy has been told many times, but that was never the real story behind Gilmour&rsquo;s career. His withered playoff body showed there is a price to be paid for success no matter what size shirt you wear. As the body takes a beating, it&rsquo;s the beat inside that needs to be in tune with the importance of the game. Doug Gilmour&rsquo;s always was.<blockquote class="pullQuote">The smaller the man, the bigger the result. They could call it the Gilmour Principle.</blockquote> &#9632;

THE HOCKEY NEWS EDITORIAL

Gilmour’s sunken body ode to pounding heart

<div class="image-hero"><img title="f0006-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0006-012153/8472379-1-eng-US/f0006-012.jpg"></div> &#9632;

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ELSTON

<h2>MORE OUTDOOR GAMES, PLEASE</h2>I think the best way for the NHL to promote itself is to have more outdoor games like the upcoming one in Edmonton Nov. 22.Ideally, each team would play one game outdoors each season. There could even be games in non-NHL locales, such as Maine, the Dakotas, or Seattle.I think the novelty of outdoor games would draw a lot of fans and get people more interested in going to games played indoors.Geoff Collins, Chicago<h2>RICHTER&rsquo;S CAREER FULL OF GLORY</h2>I&rsquo;d like to thank Mike Richter for his many great years of hard work and dedication to the New York Rangers; for accomplishing what was once thought impossible by bringing New Yorkers our first Stanley Cup in 54 years; for representing the U.S. on the international stage; and for setting numerous Rangers goaltending records.You will be greatly missed by all of the fans, Mike. Good Luck and good health to you.Gregg Bodin, Staten Island, N.Y.<h2>LETTER OF THE WEEK</h2>I&rsquo;m already sick of the collective bargaining agreement debate dominating newspapers and sports-radio talk shows. It seems almost certain the NHL&rsquo;s millionaire players and owners will soon begin complaining about how to divide up hundreds of millions of dollars.As a result, fans may go without games for perhaps more than a full season.So, what can NHL fans do about this? How about going on strike for one day this season?I think fans across the league should choose one day this year where not a single fan shows up to a single game.If that came to pass, don&rsquo;t you think an empty arena would encourage the players and owners to get their act together?At the very least, it would give them a sense of what they can expect to return to after a lengthy work stoppage.Tom Connon, Winnipeg, Man.<h2>STANLEY IN THE WHA?</h2>Thanks for the great story on the Stanley Cup. (THN, Sept. 2)I&rsquo;ve wondered if the rule of the &ldquo;challenge cup&rdquo; had been forgotten. I think the NHL should hold exclusive rights to the Cup because they play every year. But if a labor war disrupts the season, the Cup should become a &ldquo;challenge cup&rdquo; again.Then the new WHA could claim it.Tie Conn, Red Deer, Alta.<h2>STANLEY A CANADIAN CUP</h2>Mark Brender&rsquo;s recent article asked whether or not Lord Stanley would be proud of the way his Cup has been used. (THN, Sept. 2).The answer is no! The NHL uses the Cup for its own good, not the good of the game. If the NHL wants to make its own trophy, that&rsquo;s fine, but the Cup should go to the best team in Canada, as per Lord Stanley&rsquo;s wishes.Sam Obermeyer, Petersburg, Mich.<h2>DEVILS DUE SOME RESPECT</h2>It astounds me how little respect is given to the New Jersey Devils. What this team has accomplished is nothing short of spectacular, yet they are all but ignored by the media.It&rsquo;s almost like you have to remind people they won three Stanley Cups. No, they aren&rsquo;t a Cinderella story, just a team that plays its heart out.Curtis Campbell, Halifax, N.S.<h2>SEPT. 11 CAMPS A TRAVESTY</h2>I was shocked and angered to learn that a number of teams, including the Devils and Rangers, are opening their training camps on Sept. 11.Kudos to teams that consciously chose not to begin on that date. To the others, start camps before or after Sept. 11, but not on that horrible date. It shows disrespect and a lack of sensitivity to those still in mourning.T.J. Fryberger, Victorville, Calif.<h2>DUCKS ABANDONED KARIYA</h2>I&rsquo;m amazed at people who bash Paul Kariya for &ldquo;leaving&rdquo; Anaheim. It was the Ducks who didn&rsquo;t exercise their option on Kariya&rsquo;s contract, making him an unrestricted free agent.So it was the Ducks who bailed out on Kariya, not the other way around.Alfie Hiner, Duluth, Ga.<h2>Got something to say?</h2>U.S.A: Letters, The Hockey News, P.O. Box 904, Buffalo, N.Y., 14240-9947.Canada: Letters, The Hockey News, 25 Sheppard Ave. W., Suite 100, Toronto, Ont., M2N 6S7E-mail: <a href="mailto:aproteau@thehockeynews.com">aproteau@thehockeynews.com</a> or visit <a href="http://www.thehockeynews.com">www.thehockeynews.com</a>Include name, hometown, province/state and phone number.Submissions will be edited. &#9632;

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Mike Richter always was so much brighter than any bulb that occasionally burned behind him that the darkness befalling him has been especially terrifying. &ldquo;When he&rsquo;s healthy, he wakes up happy and tells lots of jokes,&rdquo; said his wife, Veronica. &ldquo;Since the concussion happened, he hasn&rsquo;t been that way.&rdquo;In a previous visit to hell, rehabbing both knees reconstructed 11 months apart, Richter still had a smile and a hello for everyone there. The baby face and relentlessly cheery disposition were a mask under the mask of one of the most tough-minded athletes we have ever known.The Olympic silver to which Richter carried the U.S, at age 35, less than a year after the second knee surgery, provided more definitive testimony to his dedication than even the unanimous respect with which he was held by Ranger teammates for 14 seasons. So the melancholy of Richter&rsquo;s retirement press conference was not standard. Wrenching was the end of a career that 99 per cent of men privileged enough to reach the NHL would have considered utterly fulfilling.&ldquo;I worked to establish myself as not only a hockey player,&rdquo; Richter said, &ldquo;but I didn&rsquo;t realize how important this was to my life, my identity.&rdquo;<h2>TOP AMERICAN GOALER</h2>Issue him an instant ID card as the best American goalie of all-time. No time is required, unlike for Richter&rsquo;s weaning from the competition he craved. The day he quit, a goalie with a Stanley Cup ring, a World Cup championship and that Olympic silver counted as a triumph a ninth straight afternoon without a nap.In May, Dr. Karen Johnston promised an eventual full recovery from the November 2002 concussion that followed a March hairline skull fracture. No guarantee could be made for the next time. There was no reason to delay retirement, but Richter did anyway for four months.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0007-011956/8472448-1-eng-US/f0007-012.jpg" title="f0007-01" width="292" height="380"><figcaption class="caption-body">Jay Greenberg&nbsp;Columnist</figcaption></div>That&rsquo;s how much one of the most erudite and properly prioritized athletes to have ever graced the NHL wanted to keep playing, a passion that went as far as Richter&rsquo;s spectacular reflexes, uncanny concentration, textbook stand-up style and endearing selflessness in explaining his responsibility for two of the three greatest-ever American hockey triumphs.One Stanley Cup, another semifinal run, a team-record 301 wins and a 41-33 post-season chart won&rsquo;t get Richter into the Hall of Fame. He never won a Vezina and, finished up on six consecutive losing teams, but what still earns him Hall consideration was his international work.<h2>BOUNCING BACK</h2>Nothing in the history of sports will ever be more celebrated than Lake Placid and no event more inspired the growth of the game in the U.S. But the 1996 World Cup championship and 2002 Olympic silver medal measured the impressive distance traveled both for the movement and for him from a doubt-inspiring, choke-implying, early career disappointment.In 1992, a first-overall finish went down the drain on an 80-foot Ron Francis goal and its implications of choke became embellished when the injury-ravaged Rangers missed the playoffs the next year. A sheriff was brought in with a mandate, but Mike Keenan saw how well-conditioned Richter was, how he was universally admired by his teammates and never thought he needed toughening.That season, 1993-94, the resolute young Jack carried 54 years of baggage up the beanstalk, a joyous triumph over the standard franchise tumult that surrounded him. Still, Richter probably was at his absolute best in coming back from a severe groin pull and a 2-0 series deficit to stone the Canadiens in 1996 and foil the Devils on a semifinal run in 1997.Despite the decline in front of him, he had some excellent stretches over the past six years, too. In running back to the Rangers even after being insulted by GM Neil Smith&rsquo;s lowball offer in 1998, Richter never gave up on New York, which, bad as things were, never dumped on him.Burning to bring the Rangers back, the goalie who has won their only Stanley Cup in 65 years deserved the opportunity to try. Withering was the day he had to give up.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0007-021306/8472441-1-eng-US/f0007-022.jpg" title="f0007-02" width="982" height="504"><figcaption class="caption-body">U.S. STARS Mike Richter retires in third place on the alltime wins list for U.S.-born goaltenders.</figcaption></div><div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0007-03813/8472434-1-eng-US/f0007-032.jpg" title="f0007-03" width="1374" height="1872"><figcaption class="caption-body">MIKE RICHTER</figcaption></div> &#9632;

f0007-01

Stand-up guy’s reluctant goodbye

<h2>CHARGES DROPPED AGAINST CANADIANS</h2>HASSLEHOLM, Swe. Two Canadian-born players from Germany&rsquo;s top league are free after a prosecutor in Sweden dropped the investigation into an alleged case of rape. Yvon Corriveau, 36, and Brad Bergen, 37, were pulled off the Eisbaren team bus after an exhibition game in Sweden Aug. 23. They were accused of raping a 20-year-old Swedish woman in their hotel room and were being held in jail while the investigation proceeded. Prosecutor Pernilla Astrom decided to set the men free having received the results of technical analysis made at the scene of the alleged rape. Both players pleaded not guilty and the findings supported the suspects&rsquo; version of what happened.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0008-012045/8472479-1-eng-US/f0008-012.jpg" title="f0008-01" width="256" height="414"><figcaption class="caption-body">YVON CORRIVEAU</figcaption></div><h2>HUGHES RETURNS BEHIND BENCH</h2>CALGARY Karen Hughes is back as coach of Canada&rsquo;s national women&rsquo;s team and will be assisted by Ken Dufton and former NHLer Doug Lidster. Hughes has been a member of Canada&rsquo;s international women&rsquo;s coaching pool and women&rsquo;s program since 1996. The Women&rsquo;s World Championship is in Halifax March 30 to April 6. The 2003 event to be held in Beijing, China, was cancelled due to SARS.<h2>LIGHTER PUCK MAKES DEBUT</h2>COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. The USA Hockey board of directors amended a recently passed playing rule that mandates the use of a lightweight puck in certain youth hockey age classifications for both boys and girls. The amendment now makes the rule applicable for all eight-and-under age classifications as opposed to 10-and-under and younger divisions. The lighter puck weighs just over four ounces and is blue. The standard black puck is just over six ounces. The lighter puck is easier to shoot, pass and stickhandle for players in the early stages of physical development. &#9632;

f0008-01

HOCKEY WORLD IN BRIEF

<div class="byline">BY JEREMY SANDLER</div>A crumpled heap dragging himself off the Calgary ice surface last March is no way for Doug Gilmour&rsquo;s last NHL shift to end.If any player deserved to leave the game standing, it was Gilmour, a consummate warrior and competitor with a small-man complex who always stood up for himself.But then, perhaps a fitting final image for the player they called &lsquo;Killer&rsquo; is as a spent force, having given-totally, unreservedly, doggedly-everything he had to the game.&ldquo;Doug never took a shift off-period in, period out, game in game out-he always went out there to make an impact,&rdquo; said Phoenix vice-president Cliff Fletcher after Gilmour, 40, announced his retirement Sept. 8. &ldquo;No player, in my mind, ever was consistently as good as he was.&rdquo;Fletcher, as GM of Calgary in 1988, then as Toronto&rsquo;s GM in 1992, twice traded for the Kingston, Ont. native, the first time bringing in the final piece of a Stanley Cup-winning puzzle, the second as the man who carried a laughingstock Maple Leaf franchise back to respectability.<h2>&lsquo;GREAT TWO-WAY PLAYER&rsquo;</h2>Gilmour scored 450 goals and 1,414 points in 1,474 games and 60 goals and 188 points in 182 playoff games. Smaller than his listed stature (5-foot-11,185 pounds), the 1,301 penalty minutes amassed by Gilmour attested to the fact he looked after himself.But while his numbers are impressive, Gilmour was a player who fans knew meant more than statistics.&ldquo;He was such a great two-way player,&rdquo; Fletcher said. &ldquo;He put up the offensive numbers, but he was the one you had take faceoffs in your own end. He won the Selke Trophy (in 1993) and at the same time put up over 100 points.&rdquo;His Cup-clinching goal for the 1989 Flames in Montreal still sends shivers up the spines of Calgary fans, while members of the Leafs Nation know where they were in 1993 when Gilmour turned St. Louis goalie Curtis Joseph inside-out on a triplefake wraparound OT goal that was a prelude to his carrying Toronto to the semifinal two years in a row.Returned to Toronto in a deadline deal last March, his Maple Leaf comeback lasted less than five minutes before a collision with Calgary&rsquo;s Dave Lowry ended his career.&ldquo;(The injury) simplifies everything for me. To get hurt the way I did&hellip;you know, I believe in fate,&rdquo; said Gilmour at his press conference. &ldquo;Obviously as an athlete, we all knew this day was going to come. After all this time-you never want it to come.&rdquo; &#9632;

Gilmour hangs ‘em up at 40

<div class="byline">BY RICH CHERE</div>Throughout his first seven seasons in the NHL, Kirk Muller lived with the burden of being the player the New Jersey Devils received in the 1984 draft instead of Mario Lemieux because they finished three points ahead of the lastplace Pittsburgh Penguins.The pressure never bothered Muller, who ended a distinguished 19-year playing career by retiring in early September.&ldquo;I joke about it,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I always thought the pressure would&rsquo;ve been more if I had been drafted ahead of Mario. I never found it a burden. I loved going head-to-head with him.&rdquo;Muller, 37, plans to spend time with his family while helping out with the junior Frontenacs in his hometown of Kingston. He&rsquo;s hopeful it could be the start of a career in coaching.&ldquo;Bob Gainey told me not to rush into anything,&rdquo; Muller said. &ldquo;He said to sit back, spend time with my family and enjoy the fall.&rdquo;Muller scored 185 goals and 520 points in 556 games with the Devils. He won a Stanley Cup with Montreal in 1993 and also played for the Islanders, Toronto, Florida and Dallas.In 1,349 games, he had 357 goals and 959 points. Former teammate Wendel Clark said &ldquo;nobody had more dedication or heart.&rdquo;&ldquo;I always said the day I retire I wouldn&rsquo;t have any regrets,&rdquo; Muller said. &ldquo;I enjoyed every day I played. Mentally and physically I really felt like I wanted to play one (more) year and finish with 20. But I didn&rsquo;t want to move my family with the threat of the lockout.&rdquo; &#9632;

Muller will consider coaching

<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0008-031069/8472558-1-eng-US/f0008-032.jpg" title="f0008-03" width="639" height="648"><figcaption class="caption-body">30 NHL PLAYERS POLLED, ONE PER TEAM</figcaption></div><div class="container"><div class="figure-block image-float"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0008-021527/8472565-1-eng-US/f0008-022.jpg" title="f0008-02" width="100" height="113"></div>Do you think the obstruction crackdown improved the quality of play in 2002-03?There&rsquo;s a lot of grey area when it comes to classifying the answers players gave to this question regarding the obstruction crackdown.In a poll of 30 players, one from each NHL team, 16 (53 per cent) said yes&hellip;or at least a partial yes.&ldquo;I think so,&rdquo; said Colorado&rsquo;s Joe Sakic. &lsquo;The games had better flow.&rsquo;&rsquo;&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think there&rsquo;s any question ice was opened up,&rdquo; said Adrian Aucoin of the Islanders. &ldquo;What everyone wants to see is consistency.&rdquo;&ldquo;They had a crackdown?&rdquo; said Dallas&rsquo; Jason Arnott. &ldquo;I must have missed that.&rdquo;&ldquo;There was no crackdown,&rdquo; said Detroit&rsquo;s Brett Hull. &ldquo;They did it in exhibitions and never did it again. It&rsquo;s a farce. Unless they&rsquo;re going to stick to their guns, it&rsquo;s all a crock.&rdquo;-FOR COMPLETE PLAYER POLL RESULTS, VISIT <a href="http://TheHockeyNews.com">THEHOCKEYNEWS.COM</a></div><div style="clear: both;"> &#9632;</div>

f0008-03

The Hockey News PLAYER POLL

<div class="byline">BY DENIS LEARY</div><div class="image-hero"><img title="f0009-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0009-011867/8472596-1-eng-US/f0009-012.jpg"></div>Happy now? The Devils. Again. Great.After my beloved Bruins got knocked out of the Lord Stanley hunt last year, I latched onto the Detroit Old Wings, &lsquo;cause I love to watch the senior set outsmart the fast, but witless youngsters. Plus, Detroit appeared to be a lock. Until, of course, one week into the playoffs.Then I had to pick an underdog and was still making up my mind when-bam! It&rsquo;s final time and who do I get stuck rooting for? The Mighty Ducks.My dear God.Let&rsquo;s forget the &ldquo;of Anaheim&rdquo; addendum. They could be the Mighty Ducks of New York or the Mighty Ducks of Gibraltar or the Mighty Ducks of Cabo San Luca for all I care. The problem is definitely not the &ldquo;of&rdquo; or the &ldquo;Anaheim&rdquo;. The problem is the &ldquo;Mighty&rdquo; part.Look, duck, for me, is a menu item I immediately skip over. It&rsquo;s a brief stop on the way to chicken or beef. That&rsquo;s as close as duck gets to being on my radar.But I&rsquo;ve seen ducks. I&rsquo;ve seen a lotta ducks and &ldquo;Mighty&rdquo; is not the adjective that comes to mind.Puffy? Yes. Plump? Yup. Messy, smelly, rotund-I could go on and on.The NHL has reduced fans like me to screaming bloody murder in support of a team named after fat, stupid birds. A team borne from the loins of a box-office hit starring Emilio Estevez-whose only relationship to the word &ldquo;skate&rdquo; is a fish entree he ordered in an L.A. bistro 17 years ago.<h2>TEAL DOESN&rsquo;T SCARE ANYBODY</h2>On top of which, said team&rsquo;s uniform includes the color teal. I&rsquo;m sorry, but from the day the color teal was invented it has been-and always will be-on the effeminate end of the paint palette.That&rsquo;s my problem now. Teams are being given very limp-wristed names. My team is called the Bruins. Even if you don&rsquo;t know they&rsquo;re named after a member of the bear family, the word &ldquo;Bruin&rdquo; conjures up images of bruises and brewing and low, guttural &ldquo;ooh&rdquo; sounds and it-well, it just sounds like trouble.The Rangers-they sound like they&rsquo;re riding into town on horseback to kick ass and take down names. The Blackhawks? You don&rsquo;t want them at your family barbecue.I think the Oilers are getting off the plane with wrenches and jackhammers. The Blues apparently come to the rink in a very bad mood. The Canadiens? They treat themselves in a very royal and regal manner so you are already beneath them.And don&rsquo;t point to the Maple Leafs or Red Wings as soft names. The Leafs have a national legacy behind them and the Wings-hey, you tell Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay and Brendan Shanahan their team&rsquo;s name isn&rsquo;t tough (and collect your teeth from the floor as you exit the building).But even outside the Original Six and expansion and the World Hockey Association, it&rsquo;s not impossible to come up with a good, old-fashioned, noneffeminate team tag.The Predators have cool colors and a hot logo. They sound like a bunch of country-music outlaws on a bender coming into town to sing all night and party with your teenage daughter. Pretty scary.But the Blue Jackets? Lemme think, it&rsquo;s either guys from Ohio sporting blue blazers or a cute little, what? A bee? We&rsquo;re naming teams after insects? Have we totally exhausted the animal kingdom?The Minnesota Wild? C&rsquo;mon. Wild what? It&rsquo;s a state fulla snow. So is Colorado. At least &ldquo;Avalanche&rdquo; gives you a jolt&mdash;it&rsquo;s based on an actual event. Mounds and mounds of snow that crush and smother you. That&rsquo;s a name you don&rsquo;t forget.I&rsquo;m old enough to remember the California Golden Seals. Forget the fact the ocean has never burped up a seal anywhere near the color of gold. Forget the fact the word seal rhymes with teal and is its immediate predecessor on the effeminate paint palette.<h2>THE ICE COLD BEERS OF BALTIMORE</h2>We need more black and less purple. And where are the &ldquo;Nails&rdquo; and &ldquo;Trucks&rdquo; and &ldquo;Tornadoes&rdquo;? How about the Ice Cold Beers of Baltimore? Think of the marketing possibilities.The Tumors of Toledo. The Oregon Volcanic Eruptions. See, here we embrace both the medical and disaster-relief communities.And my final offering: The Bitter Bastards of Buffalo. No one knows what a Sabre is anymore. And the people of this great, second-class town think the current cartoon logo sucks. Truth is, they&rsquo;ve never won the Cup and all the good players leave (Hasek, LaFontaine, etc., etc.,) because it&rsquo;s ball-busting cold from September 2nd until the third of July. I&rsquo;ve been in Buffalo bars after the Sabres get eliminated. Believe me, there are plenty of bitter bastards to go around.Let&rsquo;s change it up, Gary. I don&rsquo;t wanna find myself sitting in front of a plasma wall 10 years from now forced into rooting for the Atlanta Geese.Who, by the way, are wearing sky blue, faded rust and fuchsia uniforms.Real men. Real names. No more teal. See ya.<blockquote class="pullQuote">They sound like a bunch of countrymusic outlaws on a bender.</blockquote>DENIS LEARY, ON THE PREDATORSActor and comedian Denis Leary donated his fee for this column to his Leary Firefighters Foundation, which provides fire departments with funding and resources for equipment, technology and training, and financial aid to the families of firefighters injured or killed in the line of duty. Donations can be made by mail care ofThe Leary Firefighters Foundation, 594 Broadway Suite #409, New York NY, 10012 Credit card donations can be made by calling (212) 343-0240 &#9632;

f0009-01

Leary: Toughen team names!

<div class="byline">BY MIKE BROPHY &#x2022; Senior Writer</div><div class="image-hero"><img title="f0010-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0010-012012/8472655-1-eng-US/f0010-012.jpg"></div><blockquote class="pullQuote">I want to make sure it&rsquo;s out of my system, that when I retire Vm not coming back.</blockquote><div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0011-011781/8472648-1-eng-US/f0011-012.jpg" title="f0011-01" width="1588" height="1956"></div>As he slowly skated through the line at the end of the first round playoff series, shaking hands with members of the victorious Mighty Ducks, Detroit&rsquo;s Steve Yzerman happened upon his old coach and GM, Bryan Murray.&ldquo;You gonna play next season?&rdquo; Murray asked the Red Wings longtime captain.&ldquo;I have to,&rdquo; Yzerman replied. &ldquo;I need the money.&rdquo;Now unless Yzerman, a 20-year veteran who has earned more than $44 million in the past seven seasons alone, has had a bad run at the craps tables, then you know he is full of, uh, well, you get the picture.But it still raises the question, why on earth would a man who underwent massive reconstructive surgery on his right knee a little more than a year ago, a man who has won an Olympic gold medal and three Stanley Cups, why does he want to keep playing?&ldquo;How many guys do you see retire who end up coming back to play, not just in hockey, but in all sports?&rdquo; Yzerman said. &ldquo;The majority of guys I talk to love retirement. They enjoy it, but they all finish by saying, &lsquo;Play as long as you can because you&rsquo;ll miss it when you are out.&rsquo;&rdquo;Still, we&rsquo;re talking 20 years in the bigs-17 of those as captain of the Red Wings. We&rsquo;re talking a Lester B. Pearson Award as the league&rsquo;s MVP (as voted by the players) in 1989; a Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 1998; and a Selke Trophy as the league&rsquo;s premier defensive forward in 2000. What&rsquo;s left?<h2>GRAMPS ON ICE</h2>At 38, Steve Yzerman has a long way to go before he&rsquo;s among the oldest players ever. Here are the NHL&rsquo;s five senior citizens:<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0011-021279/8472641-1-eng-US/f0011-022.jpg" title="f0011-02" width="577" height="292"></div>Source: Elias Sports Bureau&ldquo;By the end of last year&rsquo;s playoffs, which obviously wasn&rsquo;t very long for us, I felt myself starting to improve,&rdquo; said Yzerman, who had two goals and eight points in 16 regular season games and then one assist in four playoff games.&ldquo;Had I not felt myself improving, I probably would have said enough is enough. But I found my mobility improving, my speed improving. I figured with a long off-season and time to rest and train, I might as well keep at it and hope I continue to improve this year.&rdquo; The Red Wings are sure glad Yzerman is giving it another shot. The loss of leading scorer Sergei Fedorov, who never felt comfortable playing second fiddle to Yzerman, means the team will be looking for someone to fill the gap in terms of offensive output.There are certainly no guarantees that Yzerman, once a regular visitor to the 100-point plateau, will approach that level again in a league where scoring is more precious than a mint condition Bobby Orr rookie card, but his well-rounded game and leadership are very much appreciated.<h2>&lsquo;DRIVING FORCE&rsquo;</h2>Wings coach Dave Lewis is not at all surprised at Yzerman&rsquo;s decision to play.&ldquo;I think it has a lot to do with not wanting to leave anything in the tank,&rdquo; Lewis said. &ldquo;When he finally quits, I think he wants to know he left it all behind him. The great ath-letes are like that. A player of lesser skill might have approached what Steve had to do to come back and thought it just wasn&rsquo;t worth it. Wanting to leave nothing behind, I think, is the driving force inside Steve.&rdquo;When the Wings won the Cup in 2002, Yzerman had a huge decision to make. He had limped around bravely on a badly mangled knee throughout the playoffs, but if he was to continue playing, it was going to take surgery and a very long and intense rehab period. And that is exactly what he opted for.&ldquo;Had 1 retired then, I always would have wondered if I could have come back and played,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I want to make sure it&rsquo;s out of my system, that when I retire I&rsquo;m not coming back&rdquo;<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0012-011958/8472634-1-eng-US/f0012-012.jpg" title="f0012-01" width="3215" height="3110"><figcaption class="caption-body">PLAY ON&nbsp;Hadhe retired following the Cup win in 2002, Yzerman says he would&rsquo;ve wondered if he left too soon.</figcaption></div>The surgery, an osteotomy performed in London, Ont., by Dr. Peter Fowler, was deemed to be a success even though Yzerman was given just a 50-50 chance of playing again. The procedure involved sawing into the bone below his knee and inserting a wedge to realign the joint. It had never been done before on a top pro athlete, so there was no precedent for coming back.&ldquo;The surgery I had wasn&rsquo;t necessarily just to come back and play hockey,&rdquo; Yzerman insisted. &ldquo;It was something I needed just for day-to-day activities and lifestyle things. Part of my motivation during rehab was to get back to play. Unfortunately we didn&rsquo;t play enough last year for me to find out if I can get back and play at a reasonably high level or a level that I will be satisfied playing at. If I can&rsquo;t, or when I&rsquo;m done playing at that level, whether it&rsquo;s after one game or 80 games, then I will know it&rsquo;s time to move on.&rdquo;Yzerman, who turned 38 in May, worked hard to get back. The carrot wasn&rsquo;t necessarily a fourth Cup or more hardware. It was the wish to walk away from hockey on his own terms and not be forced to call it quits too soon.Did he ever feel like it just wasn&rsquo;t going to happen for him?&ldquo;Oh yeah, usually about once a week,&rdquo; Yzerman said. &ldquo;There certainly were days when it was like, &lsquo;Oh my god, this is awful.&rsquo; Then there were other days when it was like, &lsquo;Hey, this is great. I think I&rsquo;m going to play for a couple of more years.&rsquo; That&rsquo;s the way it is now and probably how it will always be. Some days I feel awesome and other days it&rsquo;s a real struggle.&rdquo;Yzerman has been an offensive star since he first stepped onto the ice in 1983-84, a babyfaced kid who could razzle-dazzle, but whose defensive play left much to be desired. He was a cumulative minus-58 over his first three years.Some in the Wings organization wondered if their golden boy was the player who could lead them to the golden land. There was speculation he might be traded. But owner Mike Hitch would not that allow to happen and he was rewarded for his faith in Yzerman.<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0012-021539/8472627-1-eng-US/f0012-022.jpg" title="f0012-02" width="1596" height="1018"><figcaption class="caption-body">BROKEN WING&nbsp;Steve Yzerman has run into injury trouble in the past few seasons after nearly a decade of close-to-perfect health.</figcaption></div>&ldquo;Like a lot of young players, Steve was interested in working on his game and making himself better when he came in,&rdquo; said Murray, who coached Yzerman in the early 1990s.&ldquo;I remember one game when I was coaching Washington and he had the puck all night against us. He could split the defense and do all the great things that great players do, but I guess at some point he realized that to be a Stanley Cup champion, he had to think and play like a team guy. He became more responsible defensively and started to do the things a good captain needs to do to get everyone on the same page.&rdquo;<h2>BIGGER TEAM, SAME GOAL</h2>Yzerman enters this season ninth all-time in goals (660), tied for ninth in assists (1,010) and seventh in points (1,670).It will be a slightly different Wings team Yzerman will be rejoining this season. Dominik Hasek is back in net after a one-year retirement; Derian Hatcher was signed as a free agent; and Jiri Fischer, another monster blueliner, is back after missing all but 15 games with a knee injury. And, of course, Fedorov is gone. Still, Yzerman feels the Wings will be OK.&ldquo;With the addition of Derian and Jiri, our blueline is much bigger and more physical,&rdquo; Yzerman said. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know if we&rsquo;ll change that dramatically up front, though. We lose Sergei&rsquo;s explosiveness and ability to score a goal at any time which was a real nice wild card for us. But we&rsquo;re not all of a sudden going to become a defense-minded team with all the emphasis on defense as we try to win every game 1-0. But I still think we&rsquo;ll be a strong, more physical team.&rdquo;And barring a work stoppage, Yzerman just may be preparing for another season this time next year. &ldquo;If I can be an effective player,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;then definitely, I&rsquo;ll keep playing.&rdquo; &#9632;

f0010-01

COVER STORY

the JOY of the PAIN

<div class="image-hero"><img title="f0013-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-011782/8472686-1-eng-US/f0013-012.jpg"><figcaption class="caption-body">FELIX POTVIN BOSTON BRUINS</figcaption></div><h2>IN THE CREASE</h2>Here is each team&rsquo;s projected starting goalie for 2003-04 and his winning percentage aver the past three NHL seasons. Boston, Los Angeles and Philadelphia have new No. 1s this season, while Dominik Hasek returns to Detroit after a year in the Czech Republic.Felix Potvin&rsquo;s last few seasons have consisted of a series of ups and downs.The first &lsquo;up&rsquo; came late in 2000-01, when Potvin found his groove in Los Angeles after struggling with Toronto, the Islanders and Vancouver. Potvin posted a 135-5 record and 1.98 goals-against average in 23 games for the Kings after coming over in a trade with the Canucks, then followed that up with a 31-27-8 record and 2.31 goals-against average in 2001-02.But Potvin struggled last season with a 17-20-3 record before missing the latter half of the season with an injured knee.The Bruins offer another shot at redemption for the 32-year-old.GOALIE ZONE The NHL team reports feature a &ldquo;Goalie Zone&rdquo; overview. A scouting report of Strengths and weaknesses is provided for each team&rsquo;s top two goalies, along with status updates on up-and-coming prospects.GOALIE DEPTH IN SPOTLIGHT The &ldquo;Spotlight&rdquo; boxes show the top five goalies in each NHL team&rsquo;s organization, with age. Netminders are ranked by order of importance to their NHL team this season. &#9632;

f0013-01

2003 NHL TEAM REPORTS

<div class="byline">-DAN WOOD</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-03915/8472717-1-eng-US/f0013-032.jpg" title="f0013-03" width="281" height="577"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-021249/8472724-1-eng-US/f0013-022.jpg" title="f0013-02" width="215" height="284"></div>Seeking a new team captain with some jam, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim coach Mike Babcock looked no further than center Steve Rucchin.&ldquo;Rucchin is the kind of person who is demanding of himself and demanding of his teammates, to the point sometimes that he can be abrasive to the guys, which is what I think you need,&rdquo; Babcock said.Rucchin, 32, replaces left winger Paul Kariya-who left via free agency for the Avalanche-and becomes the fifth captain in Ducks history, also succeeding Troy Loney, Randy Ladouceur and Teemu Selanne.&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think words can really describe how great an honor this is for me,&rdquo; Rucchin said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m definitely pretty excited.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE The challenge of living up to last season&rsquo;s playoff heroics certainly looms as a large one, but J-S Giguere appears well-equipped for the task. His positioning and technique enable him to be successful without having to play over and above his capabilities. And off-ice distractions were minimized when Giguere and the Ducks agreed to four-year, $19.75-million contract Sept. 10.Martin Gerber was outstanding in limited duty last season. Like Giguere, Gerber does not rely on sensational athleticism, but rather strong fundamentals and tremendous positioning.Highly regarded Ilja Bryzgalov has spent the past two seasons with Cincinnati in the American League. He boasts outstanding size and is very agile in net, but has yet to establish consistency.NOTEBOOK Right winger Jonathan Hedstrom, who was scoreless in four games with Anaheim last season and figured to have an outside chance of winning a job at training camp, signed with Djurgardens of the Swedish elite league after failing to come to terms with the Ducks. &#9632;

f0013-03

‘Abrasive’ Rucchin new Ducks captain

<div class="byline">-JOHN MANASSO</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-05593/8472755-1-eng-US/f0013-052.jpg" title="f0013-05" width="283" height="572"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-04755/8472762-1-eng-US/f0013-042.jpg" title="f0013-04" width="217" height="283"></div>Atlanta was hoping to get a longer look at goalie Kari Lehtonen, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2002 draft, during the prospect camp in Traverse City, Mich., than the four periods he ended up playing.After making 33 saves in the opening game, a 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild&rsquo;s prospects, Lehtonen sustained a slight groin strain in the first period the following night. He was taken out of the game after the period as a precautionary measure and missed the remaining two games.Lehtonen realizes he must adjust to see through traffic on the smaller surfaces in North America, but GM Don Waddell was impressed.&ldquo;He has the poise of a goalie who has been in the league for 10 years,&rdquo; Waddell said.GOALIE ZONE Pasi Nurminen and Byron Dafoe will battle for the No. 1 job, although it would be surprising if one played far more games than the other.With Dafoe ending the season hurt and Nurminen finishing with a 21-19-5 record, 2.88 goals-against average and.906 save percentage, Nurminen has a slight edge.Nurminen has a great glove hand and, while he played well in 18 of the team&rsquo;s final 21 games last year, durability is a question. Dafoe must regain the form of two seasons ago, when he led Boston to the top regular season record in the Eastern Conference. He is determined to do so.Lehtonen likely will get a lot of playing time in the American League with Chicago. He&rsquo;ll share duties with either Frederic Cassivi or Milan Hnilicka, whom the team will trade if someone takes his $1.45-million pact.NOTEBOOK After a strong outing in Atlanta&rsquo;s first game at prospect camp in Traverse City, Mich., defenseman Braydon Coburn, selected eighth overall by the Thrashers in June, sat out the second game while recovering from food poisoning. &#9632;

f0013-05

Lehtonen’s first game hampered by injury

<div class="byline">-MIKE LOFTUS</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-07449/8472793-1-eng-US/f0013-072.jpg" title="f0013-07" width="279" height="571"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0013-06494/8472800-1-eng-US/f0013-062.jpg" title="f0013-06" width="215" height="289"></div>The Boston Bruins were often rumored to have an interest in obtaining Bob Essensa to stabilize their goaltending situation.Well, Essensa has finally arrived-as a goalie consultant. The Bruins hired Essensa, who played for six NHL teams over 14 pro seasons before retiring after 200102, on Sept. 9.&ldquo;I think the players will respect a guy like Bob, because he played in the league for as long as he did,&rdquo; said coach Mike Sullivan, a teammate of Essensa&rsquo;s for three years in Phoenix. &ldquo;He has been a starting goalie and also played a backup role. I think he understands a lot of the positions our goalies are going to be in.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Felix Potvin likely shot past veteran Steve Shields and 23-year-old Andrew Raycroft to No. 1 on Boston&rsquo;s chart when he signed as a free agent Sept. 3.Though not as solid last year in L.A.-where he had re-invented himself after lean years with Toronto, the Islanders and Vancouver-Potvin remained Kings coach Andy Murray&rsquo;s goalie of choice in 42 of 51 games before a sprained knee ended his season. A goalie who plays deeper in his crease than most, Potvin may thrive again if his knee is sound.Shields, 31, and Raycroft will compete for the No. 2 slot. Shields broke even (12-13-9, 2.75 goals-against average) under trying circumstances last year, but after back-to-back strong minor pro seasons at Providence, Raycroft might be ready to make the jump to the NHL for 20 or so appearances.NOTEBOOK Defenseman Jonathan Girard, who suffered season-ending injuries in a July 27 car accident, was about to be released to a rehabilitation facility from a Montreal hospital&hellip;Left winger Sergei Samsonov signed a one-year deal with Boston Sept. 11. A wrist injury limited Samsonov to just eight games last season. &#9632;

f0013-07

Bruins hire Essensa to work with goalies

<div class="byline">-JIM KELLEY</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-021464/8472831-1-eng-US/f0014-022.jpg" title="f0014-02" width="283" height="579"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-011934/8472838-1-eng-US/f0014-012.jpg" title="f0014-01" width="213" height="284"></div>Two months ago, Jim Corsi, the Sabres part-time goalie coach, appeared to be on the way out. Now Corsi is more &lsquo;in&rsquo; with the Sabres than he&rsquo;s ever been.The veteran goalie guru, whose time with Buffalo dates back to the Dominik Hasek days, signed on as a full-timer and will travel with the team on a regular basis.&ldquo;We felt that bringing Jim in fulltime could make the difference for us,&rdquo; said coach Lindy Ruff. &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have a goaltender that&rsquo;s taken a team to the payoffs yet, but we have young goaltending on the cusp.&rdquo;Corsi played goal for Quebec and Edmonton in the World Hockey Association. He also wrote a book on net-minding, The Hockey Goalie&rsquo;s Handbook: The Authoritative Guide for Players and Coaches.GOALIE ZONE Corsi will be tutoring Martin Biron, Mika Noronen and Ryan Miller, three netminders he handled with great success in Rochester, but who are in different stages of development and still are battling for pecking order.Biron is thought to be No. 1. He has struggled with consistency and concentration since taking over full time for the departed Dominik Hasek. He has yet to lead his team into the playoffs in two seasons, but that&rsquo;s as much a fault of the team and its fiscal problems as anything.Noronen and Miller could fight it out for No. 2, although there is some thought that since Miller needs to play, he could be ticketed for the No. 1 spot in Rochester unless he steals Buffalo&rsquo;s top job from Biron.NOTEBOOK Contract talks with blueliner Jay McKee and left winger Miro Satan appeared to have stalled. McKee&rsquo;s agent, Pat Morris, said it could be awhile before a contract is done; Satan signed with a team in Slovakia while talks continued. The two sides were not said to be close. &#9632;

f0014-02

Full-time goalie coach part of Sabres’ plan

<div class="byline">-ERIC DUHATSCHEK</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-04704/8472869-1-eng-US/f0014-042.jpg" title="f0014-04" width="281" height="575"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-031018/8472876-1-eng-US/f0014-032.jpg" title="f0014-03" width="214" height="285"></div>He started last season on the injured list because of a back injury and finished up on the ineligible list, after the NHL ruled the trade that returned Dean McAmmond to Calgary contravened the terms of the collective bargaining agreement.Accordingly, even if McAmmond had one pretty good patch with Colorado, in which he scored seven goals in 11 games, the 2002-03 season was pretty much a lost cause for the 10-year NHL veteran.Now the Flames hope he can rediscover some of the chemistry he developed in 2001-02 with Craig Conroy and Jarome Iginla on the No. 1 line.&ldquo;If I could be Calgary&rsquo;s first-line left winger, I think I could do that,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I think I&rsquo;m skilled enough and I think I&rsquo;m strong enough to play there. So it&rsquo;s a matter of finding four left wingers who fit the chemistry of the team, in the way the players work together.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Roman Turek is at his best when he&rsquo;s moving effortlessly, up-and-down and from side-to-side, getting his big body in front of the puck. Anticipation is an important part of Turek&rsquo;s game because he lacks the essential quickness that goalies of smaller stature tend to have. That, in turn, leaves Turek particularly vulnerable to deflections and tip-ins. His confidence sometimes flagged last season, in part because there was no margin of error on the Western Conference&rsquo;s second-lowest scoring team.Jamie McLennan&rsquo;s easy-going temperament makes him perfectly suited to the back-up role, though only seven victories in his past 54 decisions have the coaches wondering how often they can put him in.NOTEBOOK The Flames re-signed veteran left winger Dave Lowry. The 38-year-old Sudbury, Ont., native had five goals and 19 points in 34 games for Calgary last season. &#9632;

f0014-04

Recapturing top spot McAmmond’s goal

<div class="byline">-LUKE DECOCK</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-06377/8472907-1-eng-US/f0014-062.jpg" title="f0014-06" width="271" height="578"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-05478/8472914-1-eng-US/f0014-052.jpg" title="f0014-05" width="213" height="241"></div>Eric Staal&rsquo;s first official game in a Carolina uniform met with his approval on two fronts: the result, a 4-1 win over the Senators in a rookie tournament in Ottawa; and his fashion sense.&ldquo;Red looks good out there, I&rsquo;ll tell you that much,&rdquo; said Staal, who had an assist in 23:11 of ice time. &ldquo;It was a fun game.&rdquo;But the rookie tournament is merely the first step in whether the 18-year-old Staal, the No. 2 pick in June&rsquo;s draft, can make the NHL roster. More important will be his play in the team&rsquo;s NHL camp and preseason games. If he passes those tests, then the Canes will open contract negotiations.&ldquo;It&rsquo;s really an evaluation process,&rdquo; said Carolina GM Jim Rutherford. &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t want to put him in a position where our expectations are higher than they should be or we push him too quickly.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE The Canes are counting on Kevin Weekes to replicate the pre-concussion form he showed in October and November last season, when he vaulted to the top of the league&rsquo;s goaltending leaders.He was at his best then-flinging himself across the crease with controlled aggression, challenging shooters, challenging his defense. When he&rsquo;s not on his game, though, he can lose focus and give up some juicy rebounds.Weekes has been given the undisputed No. 1 spot after disgruntled Arturs Irbe talked his way out of the Canes&rsquo; plans last year. Irbe won&rsquo;t be invited to training camp. Likely backup Patrick DesRochers impressed in two late-season starts before breaking his arm.NOTEBOOK GM Jim Rutherford has discussed buyout terms with goalie Arturs Irbe&rsquo;s agent, Paul Theofanous, but the two sides had yet to reach an agreement. Irbe has two years left on a deal signed after Carolina&rsquo;s Cup final run in 2001-02. &#9632;

f0014-06

Staal gets first taste of Carolina fashion

<div class="byline">-TIM SASSONE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-08241/8472945-1-eng-US/f0014-082.jpg" title="f0014-08" width="277" height="576"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-07293/8472952-1-eng-US/f0014-072.jpg" title="f0014-07" width="209" height="281"></div>By the time the first puck drops in October, the Blackhawks could be one of the youngest teams around. It&rsquo;s possible as many as six rookies will find their way into the opening night lineup Oct. 8 against Minnesota.&ldquo;The organization is to the point where the young guys are ready to step forward, and they&rsquo;re going to get the opportunity,&rdquo; said coach Brian Sutter.&ldquo;There are some young kids who want to step forward and take an important role here.&rdquo;The highly touted Tuomo Ruutu is only one of a handful of prospects drafted by GM Mike Smith since 2000 the Hawks hope are ready to make an impact. There are also wingers Pavel Vorobiev, Igor Radulov, Matt Keith and Alexander Kozevnikov; center Mikhail Yakubov; defensemen Anton Babchuk, Michal Barinka, Vladimir Gusev and Lasse Kukkonen; and goaltenders Michael Leighton and Craig Andersson.GOALIE ZONE Jocelyn Thibault isn&rsquo;t the biggest goaltender around, but his improved technique and quickness has enabled him to raise his game a notch. The soft goals that once plagued him happen with less frequency. Thibault&rsquo;s weakness has been his durability, though management&rsquo;s inability to find a backup capable of winning on a consistent basis has forced one coach after another to play him too much.Rookies Leighton and Andersson come to training camp ready to battle for the backup job. Veteran Steve Passmore remains in the organization as insurance.NOTEBOOK In a tumultuous 200203 season, veteran leadership proved to be a problem. Coach Brian Sutter said things need to change. &ldquo;When you have young guys, the older guys have to be solid role models,&rdquo; Sutter said&hellip;A total of 53 players were invited to training camp. &#9632;

f0014-08

Exuberance of youth won’t be lacking

<div class="byline">-ADRIAN DATER</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-10189/8472983-1-eng-US/f0014-102.jpg" title="f0014-10" width="278" height="575"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0014-09210/8472990-1-eng-US/f0014-092.jpg" title="f0014-09" width="212" height="275"></div>Paul Kariya was sucking wind his first full day of skating with his new Colorado Avalanche teammates. Imagine what opponents are going to feel like once Kariya and Co. get their legs under them.&ldquo;The air is definitely a little bit thinner up here,&rdquo; was one of Kariya&rsquo;s first-day observations about his new city, after skating informally with his Avs mates 10 days before training camp.Kariya otherwise was full of nervous energy and excitement about his first NHL season playing for a team other than the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. &ldquo;This could be a very exciting team,&rdquo; Kariya said.That could be the understatement of the century.GOALIE ZONE David Aebischer almost certainly will be the No. 1 goalie for the Avs. He arrived in Denver about three weeks before the start of camp, and says he is in top shape.Aebischer has quite a task in front of him in replacing Patrick Roy. But, while he has been focused on the job all summer, it wasn&rsquo;t all hockey for the 25-year-old. Aebischer visited many of the U.S.&rsquo;s premier landmarks over the summer, including the Grand Canyon. Perhaps the time away from the rink will better help Aebischer relax during the start and finish of games-often problem times for him often in his first three years. When Aebischer is relaxed and confident, he&rsquo;s superb.Phil Sauve figures to get his first chance in the NHL as Aebischer&rsquo;s backup. Sauve has improved his positioning and quickness over three years in Hershey (AHL).NOTEBOOK The Avs signed left winger Alex Tanguay to a one-year, $1.5 million contract&hellip;Center Peter Forsberg and his father, Kent, won 1.6 million Swedish krona-about $200,000&mdash;for owning the horse that won the Trotting Derby in Sweden, the biggest horse race in the country. &#9632;

f0014-10

Thin mountain air new twist for Kariya

<div class="byline">-AARON PORTZLINE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-021267/8473021-1-eng-US/f0015-022.jpg" title="f0015-02" width="280" height="585"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-011762/8473028-1-eng-US/f0015-012.jpg" title="f0015-01" width="215" height="282"></div>It&rsquo;s looking highly unlikely that highly skilled winger Nikolai Zherdev will play for the Blue Jackets this season.Zherdev, the fourth-overall pick last June, signed a three-year contract with the Blue Jackets, and the club paid the required $100,000 transfer fee to the International Ice Hockey Federation. In those respects, he is a free man.Zherdev&rsquo;s Central Army Russian team, however, sees it differently. They want Zherdev to stay, and they&rsquo;ll probably force the issue, much like they did with Stanislav Chistov of Anaheim and Alexander Svitov of Tampa Bay. Both players were forced to spend another year in the army.&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t anticipate him being at training camp,&rdquo; Blue Jackets assistant GM Jim Clark said.The Blue Jackets also are being careful not to lose favor with Central Army higher-ups, as they have four other prospects on the team.GOALIE ZONE Marc Denis&rsquo; patience for the puck-letting it come to him, if you will-improved as last season progressed. One might say lots of practice makes perfect, for nobody played more minutes, faced more shots or made more saves than Denis last season.All the tools for Denis to join the upper echelon of netminders, including the mental fortitude, are in place. This year, with Fred Brathwaite providing a more than capable backup, Denis won&rsquo;t be gasping for air come April.On the horizon remains Pascal Leclaire, the No. 8 overall pick in 2001. Leclaire had a brutal pro debut last season at Syracuse (AHL). How he responds this season should speak volumes.NOTEBOOK The Blue Jackets signed free agent center Mark Hartigan after Atlanta bought out the final year of his contract.* Spotlight goalies are listed with age &#9632;

f0015-02

Zherdev’s Army ties too strong to fight

<div class="byline">-MIKE HEIKA</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-04656/8473059-1-eng-US/f0015-042.jpg" title="f0015-04" width="282" height="584"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-03890/8473066-1-eng-US/f0015-032.jpg" title="f0015-03" width="220" height="243"></div>Jason Arnott is ready to go. After a summer of hard work in which he shed a few pounds and generally became leaner, he said he feels light and ready to skate.&ldquo;It&rsquo;s just a matter of exercise and changing your diet,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I really feel better overall.&rdquo;Arnott struggled with numerous injuries last season and came up with 47 points in 72 games. When he was healthy and flying, he scored in bunches. When he was aching, he didn&rsquo;t. Arnott is hoping the extra muscle and lighter weight means better health, but he added that he doesn&rsquo;t want it to take away from his power.&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know why it should,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I feel stronger than I was before.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Marty Turco is the key to everything this team does in goal. Not only does he stop the puck, but he moves it to get the offense going. What&rsquo;s more, his swagger on the back end gives the Stars the confidence they need to run Dave Tippett&rsquo;s somewhat risky passing system.Turco&rsquo;s numbers are spectacular. He led the NHL in goals-against average (1.72) and save percentage (.931) and was a finalist for the Vezina Trophy. In 112 career games, he has a 1.85 GAA.Ron Tugnutt is a steady backup, but did not play well when Turco was injured for 18 games last season. Still, the Stars believe Tugnutt will step up if Turco does not sign a contract before the start of the season.Jason Bacashihua, 20, and Mike Smith, 21, are expected to share time with the Utah Grizzlies. They are part of a strong goaltending youth corps. The Stars also believe Dan Ellis and Tobias Stephan have NHL potential.NOTEBOOK Right winger Jere Lehtinen signed a four-year contract extension that averages $3.6 million and goes to 2007. &#9632;

f0015-04

Lean and trim Arnott hungry for results

<div class="byline">-ROB TYCHKOWSKI</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-08269/8473135-1-eng-US/f0015-082.jpg" title="f0015-08" width="275" height="578"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-07308/8473142-1-eng-US/f0015-072.jpg" title="f0015-07" width="213" height="288"></div>The once-rosy relationship between Edmonton-born Mike Comrie and Oilers GM Kevin Lowe is beginning to show cracks.On the eve of training camp, the 23-year-old center reportedly asked for a trade and Lowe is apparently open to the suggestion. While neither side would confirm or deny that a trade request has been made, it&rsquo;s clear there are major issues at play here.The 23-year-old center wasn&rsquo;t happy after being publicly criticized for his play down the stretch and in the playoffs last year, and the pressure of being hometown hero seems to be weighing heavily. But the biggest factor is that the two sides are millions apart in contract negotiations.Comrie earned $3.5 million last season (most of it in easily achievable bonuses) in the final year of a three-year rookie contract. The Oilers made him an offer based on his $1.1 million base salary.GOALIE ZONE Starter Tommy Salo is workmanlike and fundamentally sound rather than spectacular. He reads and anticipates the play exceptionally well and thus has time to square himself to the shooter and make a routine save rather than relying on acrobatics. He is a fierce competitor who is able to put a bad goal or game behind him with a simple shrug.No. 2 man Ty Conklin hasn&rsquo;t had a cup of coffee in the NHL yet, but management saw enough in the American League last year-he led Hamilton to Game 7 of the Calder Cup final-to trade Jussi Markkanen and elevate Conklin to the backup spot.NOTEBOOK Center Mike York, who had off-season wrist surgery to repair a scaphoid bone, was originally expected to miss several weeks of training camp while recovering, but now he says he&rsquo;ll be ready to join the team during the first week of camp. &#9632;

f0015-08

Trade winds blowing Comrie out of town?

<div class="byline">-DAVID J. NEAL</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-10214/8473173-1-eng-US/f0015-102.jpg" title="f0015-10" width="274" height="580"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0015-09242/8473180-1-eng-US/f0015-092.jpg" title="f0015-09" width="218" height="288"></div>As training camp neared, the Panthers went into a free agent buyer&rsquo;s market to put some experience on the shelf.First, they signed 31-year-old left winger Jonas Hoglund to a one-year contract. Then, they signed 35-year-old defenseman Lyle Odelein for a year. Along with 37-year-old defenseman Todd Gill, signed to a one-year deal Aug. 20, the three give a significant bump to the Panthers average age and NHL games played.Each of the three short term, $600,000-range contracts also guaranteed that, should the player not work out, the Panthers wouldn&rsquo;t be stuck for the following year as they were with $2 million scratches Igor Ulanov and Lance Pitlick.GOALIE ZONE Roberto Luongo&rsquo;s butterfly technique isn&rsquo;t as clean as fellow Francois Allaire student Jean-Sebastien Giguere, but Luongo makes up for his technical shortcomings through superior athleticism. He has an excellent glove hand that&rsquo;s often in the right place even when the rest of him isn&rsquo;t.Luongo&rsquo;s rebound control improved over the last half of last season as he worked on it with goaltending coach Clint Malarchuk. The killer goals off long shots have dwin-dled. The best bet on him is still to go side-to-side, then keep the puck low.Jani Hurme is an intense, compact goalie who seems to play more efficiently than Luongo. Between rust and a January foot injury, he didn&rsquo;t win a game after Jan. 2.NOTEBOOK The Panthers weren&rsquo;t happy rookie defenseman Lukas Krajicek failed to pass his medical and would miss at least the first two weeks of camp. Krajicek, expected to make the roster, rehabilitated from off-season shoulder surgery in Tampa. The Panthers aren&rsquo;t entirely convinced he worked hard enough to follow his fitness coach&rsquo;s direction. &#9632;

f0015-10

Veteran additions cost only in Grecian

<div class="byline">-MATT MCHALE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-021237/8473211-1-eng-US/f0018-022.jpg" title="f0018-02" width="276" height="578"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-011602/8473218-1-eng-US/f0018-012.jpg" title="f0018-01" width="214" height="276"></div>The injury bug has taken another bite out of Jared Aulin.The promising, but oft-injured rookie center, will miss five months after undergoing surgery to repair a dislocated shoulder suffered during the Kings&rsquo; pre-camp prospects tournament involving San Jose, Phoenix and Anaheim.Aulin, who has battled injuries since junior hockey in Kamloops (WHL), was hurt during a fight with Anaheim&rsquo;s Shane O&rsquo;Brien. The shoulder will be immobilized for six weeks. Aulin, one of four top prospects to sign with the Kings during the summer of 2002, played 18 games for the club last year, scoring two goals and four points. He also had 12 goals and 44 points in 44 games at Manchester (AHL), but missed the final eight weeks of the season with a torn knee ligament.GOALIE ZONE Roman Cechmanek enjoyed solid regular seasons (1.96 goals-against average) during three seasons in Philadelphia, but has been overshadowed by playoff disappointment.His unorthodox style sometimes leaves him out of position and causes problems on rebounds. But the Kings like his upside, which includes size and good reflexes.He might let in some bad goals, but he gets to pucks no one else would.Because of Cristobal Huet&rsquo;s strong showing down the stretch, the Kings decided to let longtime backup Jamie Storr go.The Kings also signed former Ottawa goalie Mathieu Chouinard, who is expected to start in the minors.NOTEBOOK Rookie center Yanick Lehoux, benched several times last season at Manchester (AHL) for poor play, made a solid impression in his first week of camp, scoring four goals in four games during the prospects tournament. &#9632;

f0018-02

Aulin hurts shoulder in pre-season scrap

<div class="byline">-BRIAN MURPHY</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-04613/8473249-1-eng-US/f0018-042.jpg" title="f0018-04" width="279" height="580"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-03904/8473256-1-eng-US/f0018-032.jpg" title="f0018-03" width="234" height="261"></div>With Marian Gaborik and the Wild already embroiled in a contract dispute, another standoff was brewing with Pascal Dupuis leaving the team without its two top scorers when training camp opened.Gaborik, a twotime 30-goal scorer, is seeking a longterm contract that would triple his $1,075 million salary. Dupuis rejected the Wild&rsquo;s initial offer of $3.12 million over four years. The second-year left winger earned $350,000 last season when he scored 20 goals and led the team with a plus-17 rating.Gaborik finished tied for second in playoff scoring with nine goals among 17 points in 18 games. The two sides are about $1.5 million apart on the front end of the four-year deal. Gaborik was in his native Slovakia preparing to play for his former team in Trencin.GOALIE ZONE Manny Fernandez and Dwayne Roloson alternated starts and posted almost identical numbers in forging the fourth-lowest goals-against average in the league last season. But their playing styles and personalities couldn&rsquo;t be more different.Fernandez is an edgier, more athletic netminder who can stay deep in his crease and rely on his natural quickness, especially moving post to post. He is the more superior puck handler and more demonstrative with his emotions on the ice.Roloson constantly works on his game in practice. He roams from his crease to challenge shooters. He is vocal with his defensemen, stays square to the shooter and carries himself more evenly on and off the ice.NOTEBOOK The Wild invited 1993 No. 1 overall pick Alexandre Daigle to try out at camp. The flashy center spent most of last season playing for Wilkes-Barre (AHL) after signing with Pittsburgh following a two-year hiatus from hockey. &#9632;

f0018-04

Wild’s top scorers look for new deals

<div class="byline">-HERB ZURKOWSKY</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-06328/8473287-1-eng-US/f0018-062.jpg" title="f0018-06" width="278" height="581"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-05419/8473294-1-eng-US/f0018-052.jpg" title="f0018-05" width="221" height="255"></div>Jose Theodore vowed he&rsquo;ll be able to concentrate on his hockey career this season despite the legal problems facing his family.&ldquo;My job is to play hockey and help my team win,&rdquo; the Montreal Canadiens&rsquo; goal-tender said before the team&rsquo;s annual golf tournament-the first time he has spoken publicly since last June, when his father and four half-brothers were arrested for their alleged involvement in a loansharking ring operating.&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not involved,&rdquo; Theodore added.That might be so, but it didn&rsquo;t help Theodore&rsquo;s reputation when two Montreal newspapers ran pictures of him partying and playing golf with members of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang.&ldquo;It&rsquo;s part of the learning experience,&rdquo; Theodore said. &ldquo;When you&rsquo;re a hockey player, people are always asking for autographs or to pose for pictures. That was four or five years ago.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Theodore&rsquo;s mental resilience was questioned last season after he was named the NHL&rsquo;s MVP and was handed a monster contract only to stumble on the ice. It will be put to the test again this season. His spectacular leg speed and lateral movement should help him prosper, but he&rsquo;ll forever be expected to duplicate his 2001-02 season, when he captured the Hart and Vezina Trophies.Backup Mathieu Garon is bigger than Theodore, at 6-foot-2 and 192 pounds, and was once considered the better prospect, although he appears to fight the puck occasionally.NOTEBOOK Captain Saku Koivu signed a two-year, $8.75-million contract one week before the start of camp, becoming the last Canadiens player to agree to terms. Koivu, who earned $3.3 million last year, will be paid $4.25-million this season and $4.5-million in 2004-05. &#9632;

f0018-06

Goalie’s family woes won’t bog him down

<div class="byline">-DAVID BOCLAIR</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-08200/8473325-1-eng-US/f0018-082.jpg" title="f0018-08" width="279" height="582"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-07271/8473332-1-eng-US/f0018-072.jpg" title="f0018-07" width="220" height="244"></div>Following a successful eight-game audition at the start of last season, Scottie Upshall the franchise&rsquo;s top pick in 2002 is in line for a fulltime NHL role this season-and at different spots on a line.Coach Barry Trotz said he will start with Upshall, who had a goal and was plus-2 with the Predators, on the wing, his natural position, to give him the best chance to make the roster. Later in camp, though, Trotz said he would like to get Upshall some work at center.&ldquo;It will let him refine his game,&rdquo; Trotz said. &ldquo;I know he can play along the wall. He could be a pretty well-rounded guy if he can play center too.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Tomas Vokoun is a supremely conditioned goalie who is rarely out of position and has a knack for making the spectacular save. His endurance allows him to get in and out of the butterfly as quickly and efficiently in the third period as in the first. The days when his confidence and focus wavered disappeared when he became the starter 28 games into last season.Backup Jan Lasak will have to refine his game when he gets the chance, which is likely to be rare. He must learn to control rebounds and to be in better position to make the second save if the chance comes.Brian Finley will have the chance at Milwaukee (AHL) to show he can stay and to earn an occasional NHL appearance. Veteran Wade Flaherty is on hand as insurance against struggles by either Lasak or Finley.NOTEBOOK The Predators resigned center David Legwand Sept. 10&hellip;First-year assistant coach Peter Horachek will coordinate the power play, which never has finished better than 23rd. Last season the Preds scored a franchise-record 58 power play goals, but its 13.9 per cent success rate was a decline from the previous two seasons. &#9632;

f0018-08

Upshall will wing it at training camp

<div class="byline">-RICH CHERE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-10139/8473363-1-eng-US/f0018-102.jpg" title="f0018-10" width="275" height="575"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0018-09163/8473370-1-eng-US/f0018-092.jpg" title="f0018-09" width="193" height="279"></div>Winning his first Stanley Cup after 13 seasons wasn&rsquo;t likely to change Pat Burns.When he arrived for his second training camp with the Devils, Burns said he would be just as tough in the pursuit of back-to-back championships.&ldquo;I know I won&rsquo;t change,&rdquo; Burns promised. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ll be just like I was. I can&rsquo;t change. If I change it won&rsquo;t be me.&rdquo;That came as no surprise to GM Lou Lamoriello.&ldquo;I have no doubt about that,&rdquo; Lamoriello said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve had conversations with him. He did a great job last season. Right now it&rsquo;s just a matter of going forward.&rdquo;Burns said his accomplishment didn&rsquo;t really sink in until he had the Cup in Magog, Que., July 4.&ldquo;My 90-year-old mother was sitting there touching the Cup with her hands shaking and it kind of choked me up. That night is probably when it sank in,&rdquo; Burns said. &ldquo;When we won, I was standing on the ice with my hands in my pockets looking up and thinking, &lsquo;Gee, it doesn&rsquo;t look like this on TV.&rsquo;&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE In the post-Patrick Roy era, Martin Brodeur has become the NHL&rsquo;s premier goaltender and last season he finally received the Vezina Trophy to confirm it.Confident and technically sound at age 31, Brodeur&rsquo;s two biggest assets at this stage of his career are his durability (70-plus games for six straight seasons) and newfound leadership.Backup Corey Schwab has delayed the promotion of rookie Ari Ahonen because of his ability to sit for long stretches and still play well when called upon.NOTEBOOK The Devils signed veteran center Igor Larionov, the oldest player in the league (he turns 43 in December), to a one-year contract Sept. 10. &#9632;

f0018-10

Burns won’t change after Cup victory

<div class="byline">-PETER BOTTE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-021118/8473401-1-eng-US/f0019-022.jpg" title="f0019-02" width="282" height="586"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-011472/8473408-1-eng-US/f0019-012.jpg" title="f0019-01" width="214" height="284"></div>The Islanders completed the revamping of first-year coach Steve Stirling&rsquo;s staff by hiring Sudarshan Maharaj as their new goaltending consultant.Maharaj, who was bom in Trinidad and moved to Toronto at age six, replaces Hall of Famer Billy Smith, who will continue as a minor league instructor and scout.Maharaj, who worked with NHL goalies such as Kevin Weekes and as a longtime coach with various junior teams in the Toronto area, primarily will work with the tandem of Rick DiPietro and Garth Snow.Maharaj, 39, was a member of the 1984-85 Canadian university championship team at York University (located in Toronto) and played professionally in Sweden for six seasons before retiring in 1991.GOALIE ZONE Two years after the Islanders originally had planned to have the veteran Snow and promising DiPietro battle in training camp for the No. 1 job, the team will sink or swim this season with that combination between the pipes.The Isles know the dynamic DiPietro, the first overall selection in the 2000 draft, must emerge as a star for them to take the next step. DiPietro&rsquo;s most obvious strength-and occasionally a weakness that gets him into trouble-is his confident and daring approach.Wade Dubielewicz, a former college star at Denver University, was signed as a free agent to be the No. 3 goalie, replacing departed Stephen Valiquette as the top netminder with Bridgeport in the American League.NOTEBOOK Isles battering ram and fan-favorite Steve Webb remained an unsigned, unrestricted free agent leading up to the opening of training camp. GM Mike Milbury wouldn&rsquo;t rule out making Webb a contract offer, but said Sept. 8 &ldquo;there are no promises either way.&rdquo; &#9632;

f0019-02

Ex-university goalie new Isles consultant

<div class="byline">-LARRY BROOKS</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-04606/8473439-1-eng-US/f0019-042.jpg" title="f0019-04" width="276" height="578"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-03783/8473446-1-eng-US/f0019-032.jpg" title="f0019-03" width="209" height="278"></div>It was deja vu for the Rangers and Brian Leetch when the 35-year-old defenseman suffered a freakish, pretraining camp recurrence of the same left ankle injury that sidelined him for 31 games last year.While trying to break in new skates-thus, playing without the protective shell he wears over his boot-Leetch was struck above the ankle by a Bobby Holik shot during an informal Sept. 5 workout. It was on the same spot he&rsquo;d been hit by a slapshot in a game against Columbus last December. It&rsquo;s also where Leetch had a plate inserted as the aftermath of a previous, decade-old surgery.While X-rays of the latest injury were negative, Leetch&rsquo;s ankle was put in a protective soft cast and he was using crutches.GOALIE ZONE The Rangers will count on Mike Dunham, whose poise in the face of defensivezone confusion is likely his greatest asset, to handle upwards of 65 starts. Dunham, 31, who plays a throwback, standup, deep-in-the-net style, does not over-challenge and will freeze the puck whenever possible. Entering his eighth year, Dunham has never played as many as 60 games in a season, nor has he ever played in the playoffs. When fatigued or off his game, Dunham tends to kick at the puck, often sending it back into the slot for juicy rebound opportunities.Jussi Markkanen, obtained from Edmonton in the summer, is expected to be Dunham&rsquo;s backup. Markkanen is steady, mature and handles the puck very well. Goalie-of-the-future Dan Blackburn, 20, will hone his game in the American League.NOTEBOOK Right winger Pavel Bure was declared &ldquo;medically unable to play&rdquo; after he failed a physical examination at the start of camp. He will rehab in New York, but there was no timetable for his return&hellip;Defenseman Ales Pisa, acquired last season from Edmonton with Anson Carter, signed a contract to play in Russia. &#9632;

f0019-04

Nearly identical injury sidelines Leetch again

<div class="byline">-BRUCE GARRIOCH</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-06337/8473477-1-eng-US/f0019-062.jpg" title="f0019-06" width="272" height="584"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-05450/8473484-1-eng-US/f0019-052.jpg" title="f0019-05" width="215" height="284"></div>With the exception of right winger Martin Havlat, the Senators were a happy bunch as they prepared to report to training camp.While Havlat continued to see if his contract stalemate with the Senators would be broken-there was no end in sight-the rest of the players reported ready for the challenge of bringing a Stanley Cup to Ottawa.&ldquo;These players should be coming into this camp thinking that the best is yet to come,&rdquo; said Senators GM John Muckier. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m anxious to get going. This is going to be an exciting year for everybody.&rdquo;Still, Havlat remained unsigned. Agent Allan Walsh and Muckier hadn&rsquo;t held any talks since Ottawa sent a first offer of $900,000 for this season and $1 million in 2004-05. Walsh responded with a fax that said the offer was unacceptable.GOALIE ZONE Patrick Lalime is a goalie on the rise. Determined to be viewed in the same class as Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur when his career comes to an end, Lalime is slowly earning respect. He&rsquo;s never going to wow anybody with his quotes, but he usually backs it up with action. He&rsquo;s got a great glove hand and has been working hard at covering his angles.Backup Martin Prusek is going to push for more playing time after reporting to camp out of shape last year. Let&rsquo;s face it, the guy not only looks like Dominik Hasek, but he also has a similar flop-around style.A guy to keep an eye on in the American League is Binghamton starter Ray Emery. He had a fine rookie pro season last year and just needs more seasoning.NOTEBOOK Defenseman Will Colbert, the first Ottawa 67&rsquo;s player ever drafted by the Sens, didn&rsquo;t have a memorable start in rookie camp. He broke his left forearm in the club&rsquo;s first game and will be lost to the 67&rsquo;s (OHL) for an extended period. &#9632;

f0019-06

Sens ready to rumble despite absent Havlat

<div class="byline">-WAYNE FISH</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-08241/8473515-1-eng-US/f0019-082.jpg" title="f0019-08" width="278" height="584"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-07283/8473522-1-eng-US/f0019-072.jpg" title="f0019-07" width="218" height="258"></div>When a team has two No. 1 draft picks, the second one sometimes gets relegated to &ldquo;little brother&rdquo; status.But don&rsquo;t go mentioning the word &ldquo;little&rdquo; around Mike Richards, even if he is all of just 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds.Richards, taken 24th overall after the Flyers chose center Jeff Carter at No. 11 in June, was drawing comparisons to none other than former Flyer Mike Ricci in a pair of rookie scrimmages against the Islanders.While he might not be quite ready for the NHL, the center impressed coaches with his skill, savvy and grit.&ldquo;Mike&rsquo;s just a real smart player.,&rdquo; said assistant GM Paul Holmgren. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s not going to do anything that will hurt you away from the puck.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE In 1996, Jeff Hackett made such a good impression on then-Blackhawks coach Craig Hartsburg, it earned him a recommendation by the current Flyer assistant in 2003.When he&rsquo;s healthy and playing for a solid team, Hackett has the reflexes and quickness to equal the best. Trouble is, he has seldom had the luxury of either in a checkered career approaching the 500-game mark.Robert Esche has been touted as Hackett&rsquo;s partner, but most likely will be the backup. Esche had a good start last year, but faded and won only three times after mid-January. Still, the team thinks he can be a No. 1 someday.Antero Niittymaki and Roman Malek are the team&rsquo;s strongest prospects. Niittymaki finished with a losing record in tSe American League for a sub-par Phantoms team last season. Malek, a 2001 draft pick (158th overall) from the Czech Republic, will not be brought over this season.NOTEBOOK Rookie defenseman Joni Pitkanen impressed in scrimmages against Islander rookies. He hadn&rsquo;t played in a game situation since undergoing season-ending knee surgery last February. &#9632;

f0019-08

Rookie pivot Richards impresses with grit

<div class="byline">-BOB MCMANAMAN</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-10169/8473553-1-eng-US/f0019-102.jpg" title="f0019-10" width="277" height="583"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0019-09201/8473560-1-eng-US/f0019-092.jpg" title="f0019-09" width="208" height="282"></div>As the only player who has been with the Coyotes longer than three years, right winger Shane Doan, the club&rsquo;s last link to its days in Winnipeg, was the logical choice to replace Teppo Numminen as captain.Doan, entering his ninth season with the franchise, was awarded the &lsquo;C&rsquo; Sept. 10, two days before the start of training camp.Doan becomes the 15th captain in club history and just the third in the eight years since the team relocated to Phoenix in 1996.&ldquo;I have high hopes for this team,&rdquo; Doan said. &ldquo;We were picked to finish last in the West by somebody and that&rsquo;s pretty good motivation. I think that prediction is way off&hellip;we&rsquo;re going to surprise some people.&rdquo;(Editor&rsquo;s Note: The Hockey News 2003-04 Yearbook picked Phoenix to finish last in the Western Conference.)GOALIE ZONE This is the franchise&rsquo;s strongest position and leading the way again is veteran Sean Burke, whose.920 save percentage the past four years is the best in the NHL. Although Burke battled injury woes last season, he gives the team a shot of returning to the playoffs for the second time in four years.There could be a battle for the backup role between Brian Boucher and Zac Bierk, both of whom are qualified to handle the No. 2 job. Boucher has more experience at the NHL level and the Coyotes invested heavily in him, which would seem to give him the edge. Don&rsquo;t be surprised if one of them is traded, however, before the NHL waiver draft in early October.Waiting in the wings are two prospects with glowing credentials, Jean-Marc Pelletier and last season&rsquo;s NCAA sensation, David LeNeveu, a Hobey Baker Award finalist.NOTEBOOK Center Jan Hrdina agreed to a one-year deal plus a club option, worth $2 million this season and $2.2 million in 2004-05. &#9632;

f0019-10

Doan named captain, vows to quiet cynics

<div class="byline">-JOE STARKEY</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-02992/8473591-1-eng-US/f0020-022.jpg" title="f0020-02" width="290" height="582"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-011367/8473598-1-eng-US/f0020-012.jpg" title="f0020-01" width="218" height="290"></div>A welcome sight greeted Pittsburgh goalies at training camp: a coach of their own.In previous years, the Penguins employed scout Gilles Meloche as a part-time goalie coach, but had no one to work with their stoppers each day at practice. New assistant coach Lome Molleken, a former minor league goalie, will fill the role.Molleken&rsquo;s impact was felt immediately. When top-overall 2003 draft pick Marc-Andre Fleury gave up four goals in a period of a rookie camp scrimmage, Molleken spent nearly 20 minutes with him, talking and doing drills.Molleken has worked with several noted goalie coaches, including Warren Strelow and Vladislav Tretiak.GOALIE ZONE Sebastien Caron, who made the NHL&rsquo;s all-rookie team last season, opened camp as the best bet to be the No. 1 goalie. Caron, 23, has the never-get-rattled mentality of a veteran. He has a tendency to keep himself from moving laterally by going down on the short side, but his catquick reflexes can lead to spectacular saves. Durability is a question mark because of his slender frame, but he says, &ldquo;I can play as many games as they want me to play.&rdquo;The wild card is Fleury, who could be returned to junior or be the top dog in Pittsburgh. Fleury is incredibly smooth side-to-side and stays square to the shooter.If Fleury doesn&rsquo;t stay, J.S. Aubin will be Caron&rsquo;s sidekick. Aubin has the most NHL experience (146 games) of any goalie in camp and a ton of natural talent, but his tech-nique and psyche sometimes get out of whack.NOTEBOOK The Penguins&rsquo; marketing campaign, centered on their promising young prospects, is titled &ldquo;The X-Generation&rdquo;&hellip;Rick Kehoe, the Penguins head coach last season, is now a scout with the organization. &#9632;

f0020-02

Goalies get attention from new Pens coach

<div class="byline">-DERRICK GOOLD</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-04505/8473629-1-eng-US/f0020-042.jpg" title="f0020-04" width="277" height="586"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-03721/8473636-1-eng-US/f0020-032.jpg" title="f0020-03" width="214" height="276"></div>Dipping cautiously into the free-agent pond, the Blues fished out a familiar face.Needing depth on the blueline because of Bryce Salvador&rsquo;s wrist injury, which could have him out until November, the Blues saw a chance to add ruggedness by signing former Canucks defenseman Murray Baron.Against the Blues in the playoffs last spring, Baron, who had a stint with St. Louis in the &lsquo;90s, mauled Keith Tkachuk and that type of aggressive play is something the Blues have been searching for-even before they had the brief, injury-spoiled dalliance with Rich Pilon.The Blues hope Baron will alleviate some of Al MacInnis&rsquo;s duties, particularly on the penalty kill.Baron signed a one-year, $1.1 million contract.GOALIE ZONE In the wave of season wrap-up interviews that followed the Blues&rsquo; Game 7 playoff loss to Vancouver, Chris Osgood said to himself: &ldquo;Should have stolen one of those games.&rdquo; He said it quietly, almost mumbled. But it is that resolve and Osgood&rsquo;s interest in returning to the Blues that sold the players on their new No. 1.Osgood, a positional and agile goalie, said he&rsquo;s determined to reestablish his rep this season and the Blues are boning up the defense around him. But Brent Johnson is plotting behind him. Bigger, with rawer skills than Osgood, Johnson has promised to reclaim the No. 1 spot. Lapses in concentration and sulking cost him last season.Reinhard Divis and Curtis Sanford both won NHL games last season. The Blues are eager for Divis to stay healthy and push for NHL backup duty, while Sanford continues to impress.NOTEBOOK One of eight goalies in camp is former Calgary prospect Levente Szuper, a Hungarian goalie and the 108th pick in the 1998 draft. &#9632;

f0020-04

Blues tighten up ‘D’ with signing of Baron

<div class="byline">-ROSS MCKEON</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-06249/8473667-1-eng-US/f0020-062.jpg" title="f0020-06" width="275" height="583"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-05305/8473674-1-eng-US/f0020-052.jpg" title="f0020-05" width="216" height="288"></div>While San Jose said the door was open for his return, Adam Graves left no doubt his stay with the team wouldn&rsquo;t extend past two years.&ldquo;I won&rsquo;t be playing for the Sharks this year,&rdquo; Graves said just days before the opening of camp. &ldquo;All I&rsquo;ll say is I&rsquo;m disappointed it didn&rsquo;t work out.&rdquo; Sharks GM Doug Wilson said just days earlier, &ldquo;I have left the door open for Adam. Should certain contingencies fall into place, the contract will fall into place.&rdquo;Without going into detail, Graves disputed agreeing on a new deal.&ldquo;I&rsquo;m staying in shape and my focus is on my family,&rdquo; said Graves, who missed only one of 164 games in his two years in San Jose. &ldquo;I thoroughly enjoyed playing with everyone in the room. Over the last two years being a part of that group was something I will always remember.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE The big question isn&rsquo;t about Evgeni Nabokov&rsquo;s ability, but rather how he will bounce back mentally from a poor performance last season.Coach Ron Wilson has gone out of his way to designate Nabokov as the No. 1 goalie. Nabokov has always been a tireless worker and he has worked especially hard this summer. He&rsquo;ll look for more consistency and try to control more rebounds.Miikka Kiprusoff, the incumbent backup, and Vesa Toskala, impressive in a late-season call-up, will battle for No. 2 status. &ldquo;Both are capable of being No. 1&rsquo;s and that will push Nabokov,&rdquo; Wilson said. &ldquo;They&rsquo;ll get a chance to show what they can do.&rdquo;NOTEBOOK The Sharks sent a team of prospects with less than 50 games of NHL experience to participate in a rookie tournament in Los Angeles with teams from the Kings, Ducks and Coyotes. After losing their first three games-the first two by shutout-the Sharks took third place in the tourney by beating Anaheim 4-2 in a game that had 12 fighting majors. &#9632;

f0020-06

Graves leaves Sharks after two-season stay

<div class="byline">-DAMIAN CRISTODERO</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-08150/8473705-1-eng-US/f0020-082.jpg" title="f0020-08" width="281" height="586"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-07209/8473712-1-eng-US/f0020-072.jpg" title="f0020-07" width="215" height="281"></div>The Lightning won a huge court case this summer when a judge ruled the St. Pete Times Forum is worth about $25.5-million, despite costing more than $150-million to build.The ruling slashes the property tax bill on the arena 75 per cent, saving the team close to $6million over the past three years. Hillsborough County, where the arena was built in 1996, is appealing. The judge, James Barton III, said he based his ruling on purchase prices of similar arenas around the U.S., as provided in testimony.The team has said it lost $10 million last season, the first since 1996 in which it went to the playoffs.&ldquo;If you&rsquo;re losing $10 million and just picked up $2 million, that doesn&rsquo;t end the tide,&rdquo; said team president Ron Campbell.GOALIE ZONE If there was any doubt who was Tampa Bay&rsquo;s No. 1 goalie, coach John Tortorella put that to rest eight days before training camp began when he named Nikolai Khabibulin as the opening day starter.There had been controversy after Khabibulin was benched in Game 5 of the Eastern conference semifinal in favor of John Grahame, but Tortorella squelched it.Khabibulin remains one of the best at moving side-to-side, and though his glove slowed some, it still is extremely quick. The real problem last year seemed to be the five-hole. Khabibulin&rsquo;s strategy is to give it, then take it away, but last season he was a fraction too slow.Grahame has learned to be more patient in goal and when he&rsquo;s hot, he makes it look easy. Realistically, those are the only two goalies who will see action this season. The emergency call-up is Evgeni Konstantinov.NOTEBOOK Center Vinny Lecavalier got two new tattoos this summer. The two-inch Japanese symbols are on the small of his back and mean &lsquo;be successful&rsquo; and &lsquo;be happy.&rsquo; &#9632;

f0020-08

Judge’s arena ruling saves Bolts big bucks

<div class="byline">-KEN CAMPBELL</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-1083/8473743-1-eng-US/f0020-102.jpg" title="f0020-10" width="280" height="581"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0020-09111/8473750-1-eng-US/f0020-092.jpg" title="f0020-09" width="214" height="289"></div>The Maple Leafs spent much of the summer being chided by their fans for doing nothing, but they certainly made up for it in the days leading up to training camp.First, with one phone call, new GM John Ferguson convinced defenseman Robert Svehla to sign his retirement papers, freeing up $4 million in salary. He signed Nik Antropov to a one-year deal the same day.Then, the day before the team left for training camp in Sweden, Ferguson agreed to a one-year deal worth $2 million with former Devils center Joe Nieuwendyk.Nieuwendyk said he views the move as a chance to become the first player in NHL history to win Stanley Cups with four different teams. Five others have won three with three teams.GOALIE ZONE It was Ed Belfour&rsquo;s competitive nature that propelled him from one of the worst No. 1 goalies in the league two years ago to Vezina Trophy contender last season and judging by the state of the team&rsquo;s defense corps, the Leafs will need more of the same.Belfour doesn&rsquo;t make spectacular saves because he doesn&rsquo;t have to. He&rsquo;s so technically sound, he simply puts his body in the way where other goalies have to dive from being out of position. His composure, an issue in the past, will be tested this season.Trevor Kidd struggled as Belfour&rsquo;s backup and had off-season shoulder surgery that will keep him out of the lineup through the early part of the season. He didn&rsquo;t respond well to long layoffs last year.Mikael Tellqvist will likely start the season in Toronto; after two seasons in the minors, he has improved at challenging shooters and handling traffic in front of him.NOTEBOOK Center Nik Antropov became the last Leafs restricted free agent to sign when he inked a one-year deal worth $925,000 Sept. 5.* Spotlight goalies are listed with age &#9632;

f0020-10

Nieuwendyk, Leafs aim to make history

<div class="byline">-ELLIOTT PAP</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0021-02716/8473781-1-eng-US/f0021-022.jpg" title="f0021-02" width="271" height="575"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0021-011109/8473788-1-eng-US/f0021-012.jpg" title="f0021-01" width="201" height="284"></div>Attaining camp sensation but regular-season flop a year ago, Fedor Fedorov is back for another shot at making the Canucks.The 6-foot-4,230-pound left winger is an awesome physical specimen, but he has been unable to find the toolbox to accompany all his tools. He lasted seven games with the Canucks in 2002-03 before disappearing to the minors.&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t have a player in the organization with more physical attributes who has con-tributed less,&rdquo; GM Brian Burke said bluntly. Fedorov showed a lot of skill in deflecting Burke&rsquo;s criticism.&ldquo;My dad&rsquo;s been doing that to me my whole life so (Burke&rsquo;s statement) doesn&rsquo;t matter,&rdquo; said the 22-year-old. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m positive (Burke) says things for motivation.&rdquo;GOALIE ZONE Dan Cloutier is entering his third season as Vancouver&rsquo;s No. 1 goalie but, for the first time, he will be pushed by someone who has been a No. 1 himself, former Penguin Johan Hedberg.Cloutier has been a fine regular-season goalie and has managed to curb his earlier ten-dencies to gamble and take himself out of position. But his puckhandling remains poor and his playoff meltdowns leave huge question marks about his ability to rise up in the clutch. He will have to do something in the playoffs to rid himself of this stigma.Hedberg is a seasoned veteran who has done well in the post-season, getting Pittsburgh to the Eastern Conference final in his first crack at it in the 2001 playoffs. Hedberg is an acrobatic, athletic netminder with a fiery personality and a strong desire to win.If either Cloutier and Hedberg is injured or falters, third-year pro Alex Auld will be ready to step into the fray as he did last year, when Peter Skudra fell out of favor.NOTEBOOK Quebec League tough guy Marc-Andre Roy, who had 653 penalty minutes last season, broke his hand during the Canucks&rsquo; rookie camp and was ruled out of the main camp&hellip;The Canucks will wear shoulder patches this season with their original &lsquo;stick-in-the-empty-rink&rsquo; logo. They will also wear their original green, blue and white uniform five times this season. &#9632;

f0021-02

Burke rips prospect Fedorov for wasting natural talent

<div class="byline">-JASON LA CANFORA</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0021-04353/8473819-1-eng-US/f0021-042.jpg" title="f0021-04" width="276" height="580"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0021-03466/8473826-1-eng-US/f0021-032.jpg" title="f0021-03" width="210" height="282"></div>There is no doubt among scouts that Capitals prospect Alexander Semin has NHL-caliber talent. Team officials should know by the end of this month whether or not Semin&rsquo;s overall game is worthy of the best league in the world.The 19-year-old, selected 13th overall in 2002, has outstanding hands and abundant offensive flair, but adjusting to the North American game and competing against men will be a challenge.A natural left winger, Semin could end up skating in the pre-season on the top line opposite Jaromir Jagr, long a problem spot on this team.Should Semin fail to impress in training camp he would be returned to his club team in Russia.GOALIE ZONE There may not be a goalie in the NHL who is more integral to his team&rsquo;s success than Olaf Kolzig. Quite simply, Kolzig is the franchise and, with an inexperienced defense in front of him, his importance this season will be greater than ever.Containing his emotions and staying cool-Kolzig&rsquo;s primary weakness as a young goalie-amid a flurry of rookie defensive mistakes will test his will and the mental fatigue could be trying.Sebastien Charpentier, who beat out veteran Craig Billington for the backup spot last year, will be challenged by youngster Maxime Ouellet for that job this September. Ouellet was outstanding in the American League for much of 2002-2003, then tailed off considerably late in the season and didn&rsquo;t start Portland&rsquo;s playoff opener. He has all the tools to be another French Canadian, butterfly-style star goalie, but consistency is a must.NOTEBOOK GM George McPhee was pleased to see blueliner Brendan Witt weighing 215 pounds with camp on the horizon after weighing in around 230 pounds last season. Witt, one of only two proven NHL defensemen on the roster, tried to bulk up last summer, but was not as mobile.&ldquo;He was shuffling around for a couple of months last season and not really getting to people,&rdquo; McPhee said of Witt. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think that will be an issue this year.&rdquo; &#9632;

f0021-04

Semin a world-class talent, but can he play with Jagr?

<div class="byline">BY KEVIN OKLOBZIJA</div>Sure, 34-year-old Steve Maltais has heard he&rsquo;s getting old, even ancient, but he says he has no intention of slowing down.The American League&rsquo;s defending scoring champion signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Wolves, for whom he will be wearing his familiar No. 11 for a ninth season.The 14-year pro won his first AHL scoring title last season, with 30 goals and 86 points in 79 games. He won the title in style, too, scoring three goals and an assist-with just four seconds to play-in the season finale.&ldquo;Being 34 and leading the league is something I&rsquo;m pretty proud of,&rdquo; said the left winger.The kids may have taken over in the AHL, but they&rsquo;re not necessarily in control of the neighborhood. In finishing one point ahead of Houston&rsquo;s JeanGuy Trudel, Maltais became the oldest player to win the title in 37 years. Dick Gamble was 37 when he led the AHL in scoring in 1965-66 for Rochester.&ldquo;If anything, the older guys are probably younger at heart than the young guys,&rdquo; Maltais said. &ldquo;I heard a lot of trash talk, but like I told the younger kids on the team, if they&rsquo;re talking about you, you must be doing something good.&rdquo;In 970 career minor league games in the AHL and the defunct International League, the 6-foot-2, 215-pounder has piled up 547 goals and 1,141 points.Yet for all he has done in hockey&rsquo;s top development leagues, he has played only 120 NHL games for five different teams, scoring 27 points.&ldquo;I still think I can play, for sure, but I&rsquo;m not one of those guys who&rsquo;s going to sit here and tell you how good I am,&rdquo; Maltais said.So is another scoring title possible?&ldquo;I wouldn&rsquo;t bet against it,&rdquo; Maltais said.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-011250/8473857-1-eng-US/f0022-012.jpg" title="f0022-01" width="226" height="364"><figcaption class="caption-body">STEVE MALTAIS</figcaption></div> &#9632;

f0022-01

Wolves vet determined to keep howling

<div class="byline">BY ROB MUELLER</div>The hottest Russian import to hit the East Coast League this season won&rsquo;t be an Anna Kournikova kissing booth at an arena near you.But for true hockey fans, the Trenton Titans may have come up with the next best thing-a two-game exhibition series against Spartak St. Petersburg of the Russian league Dec. 27-28 at Sovereign Bank Arena.The game is the first of its kind in ECHL history. It will also be the first visit to the United States for the Spartak players.Trenton businesswoman Shelley M. Zeigler, who has brought Russian ballet and art exhibits to Trenton in past years, helped coordinate the series.AFFILIATION UPDATES The Toledo Storm extended their affiliation with the Nashville Predators through the end of 2003-04. The Storm is also in the second year of a two-year deal with Detroit.<h2>NOTEBOOK</h2><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0022-07246/8473947-1-eng-US/f0022-072.jpg" title="f0022-07" width="222" height="216"></div>The Gwinnett Gladiators, who are set to open their first season in suburban Atlanta, agreed to a one-year affiliation with the Thrashers. The Gladiators formerly were the Mobile Mysticks, which suspended operations after the 2001-02 season and was dormant last year.New Lynx coach Stan Drulia signed a one-year affiliation with the Florida Panthers, with whom he has ties. Drulia was interim assistant with the Panthers&rsquo; American League affiliate in San Antonio last year after leading Orlando to the Atlantic Coast League title in 2002-03.LEASE DONE The Fresno Falcons signed a five-year lease to play at the new $100-million Save Mart Center at Fresno State University. The team will play its inaugural home game Nov. 16 against Bakersfield after playing its first 11 games on the road.FITZY INKED South Carolina Stingrays coach Jason Fitzsimmons, who posted a 42-22-8 record as a rookie last season, was rewarded with a two-year contract extension through 2005-06. Fitzsimmons, 31, began his coaching career with the Rays as an assistant in 1998. &#9632;

f0022-07

Titans gearing up for Russian invasion

<div class="byline">BY DAVE SOTTILE</div>From the outside looking in, it doesn&rsquo;t make a whole lot of sense.Why would a minor league right winger chasing his NHL dream sign with a forward-rich organization like the Philadelphia Flyers?&ldquo;I did it for a couple of reasons,&rdquo; said Mike Peluso, who left the Chicago Blackhawks organization this summer for what almost certainly will be a spot in the American League with the Philadelphia Phantoms.&ldquo;No. 1, I get to play again with my good friend, Peter White,&rdquo; Peluso said. &ldquo;We played well together the past two seasons in Norfolk. And No. 2, the parent team plays right across the parking lot, so if a guy gets hurt&hellip;and they need someone, it might give me a chance to get into an NHL game or two.&rdquo;<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-011129/8473978-1-eng-US/f0023-012.jpg" title="f0023-01" width="224" height="361"><figcaption class="caption-body">MIKE PELUSO</figcaption></div>Peluso-who is no relation to the former NHL tough guy of the same name-had 24 goals and 55 points in 74 games last year with the Admirals. He&rsquo;s expected to help fill the Phantoms&rsquo; scoring void left by the departure of Mark Greig.&ldquo;I&rsquo;m sure the Phantoms are looking for me to score close to 30 goals,&rdquo; Peluso said. &ldquo;Anything after that would probably be a bonus.&rdquo;Peluso played 37 games for the Blackhawks in 2001-02, but the majority of his career has been spent in the AHL.The 29-year-old helped Norfolk win back-to-back division titles during his stay in Virginia. Three years ago, when he was in Portland, the Pirates finished with 46 wins and 103 points.Still, a championship has eluded him and Peluso would love to rectify that situation.&ldquo;I pride myself on having been with teams that have been among the best in the league and won division titles,&rdquo; Peluso said, &ldquo;but you want to go deep into the playoffs and get a ring before you put the skates away for good.&rdquo; &#9632;

f0023-01

Peluso likes chances with Phantoms

<div class="byline">BY DAVE SOTTILE</div>All 28 American League arenas will implement a new statistics-keeping system this season that promises to thoroughly modernize the league.Game data such as goals, assists, penalties, shots on goal, saves and plus-minus rating will be instantly updated and available on the Internet as play unfolds.&ldquo;Our website network had more than 30 million page views last season,&rdquo; said AHL president Dave Andrews. &ldquo;The concept of real-time stats allows fans that follow teams online an opportunity to use leadingedge technology.&rdquo;Vancouver-based <a href="http://Pointstreak.com">Pointstreak.com</a> Inc. created the Electronic Gamesheet System, which replaces paper with computer terminals for stats collection during games. Off-ice officials will input game stats and the figures will become available in real time to those logged onto the league&rsquo;s website (<a href="http://theahl.com">theahl.com</a>).<h2>AHL EAST NOTEBOOK</h2><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-02793/8474016-1-eng-US/f0023-022.jpg" title="f0023-02" width="242" height="240"></div>By using the computerized system, league leaders in various statistical categories will be updated immediately. The NHL has used a similar system in recent years.CHANGING SIDES Darcy Verot, one of the AHL&rsquo;s top instigators, signed with the Washington Capitals and will likely play for the Portland Pirates this season.The feisty center had 299 penalty minutes last season with Saint John, fifth-most in the league. Verot&rsquo;s 72 minors were 10 more than any other AHLer.Verot was public enemy No. 1 in Portland last season after a December hit on Matt Libby sidelined the Pirates defenseman for more than two months.&ldquo;We think he can play a real pivotal role for us and be the type of player we didn&rsquo;t have last year,&rdquo; said Pirates coach Tim Army to the Portland Press Herald.NOTEBOOK Former University of Vermont standout goalie Tim Thomas re-signed with the Boston Bruins and figures to see considerable action with the Providence Bruins. Thomas went 18-12-5 with a 2.87 goals-against average in 35 games with the Baby B&rsquo;s last season&hellip;The Norfolk Admirals will have their third different East Coast League affiliate in three years this season. After partnering with the Jackson Bandits and Roanoke Express, Norfolk will share players with the Florence Pride&hellip;Former Wilkes-Barre captain Jason MacDonald signed with the New York Rangers and will patrol the right wing for the Hartford Wolf Pack this season.<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-03587/8474009-1-eng-US/f0023-032.jpg" title="f0023-03" width="1001" height="1479"><figcaption class="caption-body">Lowell left winger Brad DeFauw hopes his team wins a few more games in 2003-04. The Lock Monsters finished last in the AHL a year ago.</figcaption></div> &#9632;

f0023-02

AHL offers real stats real fast

<div class="byline">-PAVEL BARTA</div><div class="container"><div class="figure-block image-float"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-04429/8474047-1-eng-US/f0023-042.jpg" title="f0023-04" width="93" height="100"></div>Future and former NHLers are performing in Europe this season. Here are four such players with NHL rights in parentheses.&bull; Tomi Kallio, 26, LW (Philadelphia). The Finnish forward played 140 NHL games with Atlanta, Columbus and Philadelphia. He will play with Vastra Frolunda in Sweden this season.&bull; Micki DuPont, 23, D (Pittsburgh). DuPont played 18 NHL games with Calgary and also spent time in Pittsburgh&rsquo;s organization. He&rsquo;ll play with Eisbaren Berlin in the German league for this season.&bull; Jean-Francois Labbe, 29, G (Columbus). Labbe, who was a backup with Columbus last year, played just four NHL games in 10 North American pro seasons. He will play with Lada Togliatti in Russia this season.&bull; Ladislav Benysek, D, 29 (free agent). Benysek appeared in 161 NHL games with Edmonton and Minnesota. He also won a Calder Cup with Houston of the American League before signing with IFK Helsinki in Finland. &#9632;</div>

f0023-04

EYE ON EUROPE

<div class="byline">-BRENDAN SAVAGE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-05315/8474078-1-eng-US/f0023-052.jpg" title="f0023-05" width="190" height="100"></div>The leading goal-scorer among active minor-leaguers is back where he enjoyed his greatest success. Kevin Kerr, who has 640 career goals in 16 seasons, signed a two-year contract with the United League&rsquo;s Flint Generals. Beginning in 1993-94, Kerr had five straight seasons with at least 50 goals, 100 points and 200 penalty minutes for Flint, where he hopes to retire. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s my goal,&rdquo; Kerr said. The 36-year-old needs 24 goals to pass former East Coast League left winger Scott Gruhl and become the No. 1 goalscorer in minor league history. &#9632;

f0023-05

NOTEBOOK

<div class="byline">-DAVID HENRY</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-06251/8474109-1-eng-US/f0023-062.jpg" title="f0023-06" width="189" height="103"></div>The Central League is putting to rest reports of a potential marriage with the United League. Reports surfaced last season of merger talks between the two leagues and have been simmering since. CHL vice-president of communications Steve Cherwonak said officials of the two leagues talked in a &ldquo;very generic manner&rdquo; during last season&rsquo;s CHL All-Star Game, but there are &ldquo;zero&rdquo; plans for a merger&hellip;The New Mexico Scorpions will honor former captain and assistant coach Travis Van Tighem by retiring his No. 34 jersey during a ceremony Nov. 1. &#9632;

f0023-06

<div class="byline">-NICK GATES</div><div class="container"><div class="figure-block image-float"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-07208/8474140-1-eng-US/f0023-072.jpg" title="f0023-07" width="135" height="122"></div>Winston-Salem owner John Baker believes he can again make hockey successful in North Carolina, where several other pro franchises failed. &ldquo;We had 1,800 die-hard fans when I owned the Thunderbirds (East Coast League) in 1989 and won the championship. I can get them back.&rdquo; His plan is simple. &lsquo;You&rsquo;ve got to have a good, physical team and I don&rsquo;t mean one that fights all the time or tries to hurt anyone,&rdquo; Baker said&hellip;The Huntsville Channel Cats hired John Gibson as their coach. The former blueliner played five seasons with Huntsville, where he was a fan favorite. &#9632;</div>

f0023-07

<div class="byline">-THN STAFF</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0023-08174/8474171-1-eng-US/f0023-082.jpg" title="f0023-08" width="157" height="117"></div>The World Hockey Association 2 launched a new weekly Internet broadcast show on IRN. FM called &ldquo;This Week in the WHA2&rdquo;. The hour-long show will debut on Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. on irn. fm and will run every Monday night throughout the season. &ldquo;We realize that hockey fans in our cities are starved for information in the off-season,&rdquo; said Peter Young, the WHA2&rsquo;s co-founder and president of hockey operations. &ldquo;For the next six weeks, each show will highlight one of our WHA2 teams. This will be the place for fans to get information on the 2.&rdquo; &#9632;

f0023-08

<div class="byline">BY WILLY PALOV</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-011206/8474209-1-eng-US/f0024-012.jpg" title="f0024-01" width="279" height="277"></div>Alain Vigneault had heard about the renowned Prince Edward Island hospitality before, but now he has experienced it for himself.The Rocket coach was impressed and a bit shocked by the reception he and the team received in Charlottetown to kick off their first season since relocating from Montreal.&ldquo;Everyone was telling us how the people here had wanted a major junior team for a while so we knew they were going to be enthusiastic for us to show up,&rdquo; Vigneault said.&ldquo;But I was amazed by the crowds we got at our pre-season games. We had at least 2,000 people show up for every exhibition game and exhibition hockey is not like regular season hockey. There are a lot of rookies playing and guys that might get cut.&rdquo;<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-02862/8474202-1-eng-US/f0024-022.jpg" title="f0024-02" width="287" height="706"></div>Of course, Vigneault and the Rocket are also coming from Montreal, the least enthusiastic junior market in the league last year. The team regularly drew fewer than 1,000 people to games in the cavernous Bell Centre (capacity: 21,273).The Quebec League was reluctant to lose its presence in the province&rsquo;s biggest city.&ldquo;The owners gave it a really good chance there, but it just wasn&rsquo;t working out,&rdquo; Vigneault said.&ldquo;You can see already why they wanted to move to Charlottetown. I think our season-ticket base is already double what our average attendance was last year.&rdquo;2005 DRAFT The QMJHL announced the 2005 midget draft will be held in Chicoutimi.The league patterns itself after the NHL by moving the draft to a different location each year. The 2004 draft had already been awarded to Baie-Comeau.HOMETOWN LAD LEAVES ROCKET The P.E.I. Rocket have a sizeable hole to fill on defense after Jeff MacAuley, a Charlottetown native, left the team. A three-year veteran of the QMJHL, the 18-year-old blueliner left to ponder his future in hockey.&ldquo;Everybody realizes Jeff is a very talented player and he could have a good future ahead of him,&rdquo; said Rocket coach Alain Vigneault.&ldquo;But you need more than talent to succeed in this game at the highest levels. He has gone home to think about whether he wants to do those extra things to succeed.&rdquo;MacAuley was selected 12th overall by the Quebec Remparts in the 2002 midget draft. &#9632;

f0024-01

P.E.I. head over heels about Rocket’s arrival

<div class="byline">BY JIM CRESSMAN</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-03615/8474247-1-eng-US/f0024-032.jpg" title="f0024-03" width="277" height="202"></div>League officials will be keeping a close eye on the Sarnia Sting this season.The Sting, favored to win the Ontario League championship, led the league in penalty minutes last season with 1,847 and in fighting majors. Sting rookie left winger Marco Caprara was the penalty king last season with 292 minutes.OHL commissioner David Branch visited the Sting during training camp and one of the items he discussed with GM Terry Doran and coach Jeff Perry was the team&rsquo;s style of play.&ldquo;It wasn&rsquo;t the purpose of the meeting, but I took the opportunity to meet with Jeff and Terry,&rdquo; said Branch, who was in Sarnia to discuss the upcoming Canadian Hockey League&rsquo;s International Challenge Series with Russia. Game 2 of the six-game series is in Sarnia Nov. 19. The first game is Nov. 17 in London.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-04430/8474240-1-eng-US/f0024-042.jpg" title="f0024-04" width="282" height="697"></div>&ldquo;It was a look at their plans for the coming year in terms of what we saw as a significant change in style of play last season,&rdquo; Branch said. &ldquo;There were no demands made. It was more of an exchange. I can&rsquo;t say we were alarmed with last season, but they certainly had a change in their style of play.&ldquo;It was explained they were attempting to build a team that would please the fans of Sarnia, who like to see a good, hardworking team. Jeff said it was not the intention to build an intimidating team.&rdquo;BIG-LEAGUE VENTURE The St. Michael&rsquo;s Majors will play their Nov. 2 home game with the Ottawa 67&rsquo;s at the Corel Centre. Majors owner Eugene Melnyk recently purchased the Ottawa Senators and Corel Centre and saw the OHL game as a way to market his teams.St. Michael&rsquo;s season-ticket holders will receive a free ticket to the Senators-Buffalo Sabres game at the Corel Centre Nov. 1. The Majors-67&rsquo;s game is a matinee the next day.Melnyk, who was rebuffed in his attempt to buy Maple Leaf Gardens, investigated playing in the renovated Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto, which will be the home of the American League&rsquo;s Roadrunners. Because of other events, though, the Majors couldn&rsquo;t secure playing dates at Ricoh.SCHOOL DAZE Ottawa 67&rsquo;s second round pick Jason Bailey left during camp and was considering the U.S. college route.&ldquo;I guess he&rsquo;s undecided,&rdquo; said 67&rsquo;s coach Brian Kilrea of the 16-year-old right winger. &ldquo;He would have helped this team.&rdquo; &#9632;

f0024-03

Sarnia’s feisty style draws OHL attention

<div class="byline">BY ROB VANSTONE</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-05298/8474285-1-eng-US/f0024-052.jpg" title="f0024-05" width="272" height="271"></div>Doug Soetaert anxiously awaits the Everett (Wash.) Silvertips&rsquo; first home game. That might give him a chance to relax.&ldquo;We&rsquo;re busy,&rdquo; said Soetaert, the GM of the Western League expansion team. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re doing about 1,000 miles an hour, seven days a week. I&rsquo;m kind of wearing 10 different hats in a day.&ldquo;That&rsquo;s on the business side. The hockey side is running as smooth as silk.&rdquo;One reason is the presence of former NHL coach Kevin Constantine, who is the Silvertips&rsquo; bench boss.&ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to do what we can to win as soon as possible,&rdquo; Soetaert said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s going to be a tough year for us, but the players who are here thoroughly enjoy Kevin, his style of coaching, his coaching staff and his discipline on and off the ice.&ldquo;The players are very excited about playing here. It&rsquo;s a new lease on life for a lot of these guys.&rdquo;The Silvertips have sold about 2,000 season tickets and anticipate a sellout for their home opener-an Oct. 4 meeting with the Prince George Cougars at the 8,200-seat Everett Sports Center.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-06234/8474278-1-eng-US/f0024-062.jpg" title="f0024-06" width="283" height="702"></div>Everett will open its inaugural season with four road games, including the Sept. 19 opener against the Kamloops Blazers, while awaiting completion of the arena.COACH TURNS GM Brad McEwen is preparing for his first season as a non-coach since the late 1980s.McEwen stepped aside as the Swift Current Broncos coach over the summer to concentrate on the GM duties. McEwen had handled the dual role for three seasons, going 123-61-20-12. He had coached in the WHL or Jr. A for the past 15 years.&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve done it for a long time and I&rsquo;ve enjoyed it,&rdquo; said McEwen, who handed the coaching reins to Randy Smith. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ll miss the practices and day-to-day things, but I was the one who really pushed for it and I look forward to the new challenge.&rdquo;McEwen&rsquo;s decision left the Red Deer Rebels&rsquo; Brent Sutter as the WHL&rsquo;s only coach-GM. &ldquo;I feel coaches need to coach and managers need to manage,&rdquo; McEwen said.NEW ADDITION Jamie Reeve joined the Saskatoon Blades as an assistant coach during training camp.Reeve, 39, previously had been an assistant with Swift Current and Moose Jaw. He joins coach Kevin Dickie and assistant Bruno Baseotto on the Blades staff. &#9632;

f0024-05

Silvertips preparing for tough first year

<div class="byline">-PAUL SHAHEEN</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0024-07193/8474316-1-eng-US/f0024-072.jpg" title="f0024-07" width="378" height="119"></div>In Green Bay, where the focus is usually on football, the fabled Packers have always been one of the Green Bay Gamblers&rsquo; staunchest supporters.Gambler recruits are frequently invited to historic Lambeau Field to visit with Packers players and when it comes to dressing room needs, the football team has always lent a hand, especially that of longtime equipment manager Red Batty, a Montreal native and rabid hockey fan.&ldquo;With Red, it&rsquo;s nonstop hockey,&rdquo; said Gamblers coach Mark Osiecki, &ldquo;If I sit in his office, it&rsquo;s hard for me to get out of there in an hour.&rdquo;These days, Osiecki appreciates the support, as he has some openings that quickly need to be filled.In August, Osiecki lost goalie Chris Holt, who opted to leave a year earlier than expected in order to sign with the University of Nebraska-Omaha. And assistant coach Layne LeBel left Green Bay to accept a similar position at Notre Dame. &#9632;

f0024-07

UNITED STATES LEAGUE

<div class="image-hero"><img title="f0025-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0025-011088/8474420-1-eng-US/f0025-012.jpg"><figcaption class="caption-body">Cape Breton didn&rsquo;t get many chances to celebrate last year as the team finished with the third-worst record in the Quebec League. With a deep lineup, and stellar goaltending the Screaming Eagles expect to turn their fortunes around in 2003-04.</figcaption></div>As crazy as it might sound, the Pittsburgh Penguins hold the fate of the Quebec League in their hands.That&rsquo;s because the Pens, who selected goalie Marc-Andre Fleury first overall in the NHL entry draft this summer, have the option of signing Fleury or, what&rsquo;s more likely, sending him back to Cape Breton.The Screaming Eagles are just one of the 56 Canadian Hockey League teams we examine in our annual major junior preview.In this section, you will find an indepth look at all three major junior loops-the Quebec League, Ontario League and Western League-and our predictions for how each CHL team will do.We begin by giving you our top candidates for each league&rsquo;s MVP:<h2>MARC-ANDRE FLEURY, G, QMJHL</h2>It&rsquo;s hard to figure what goalie Marc-Andre Fleury could do for an encore-from a personal standpoint.Fleury is coming off a year that saw him go first overall in the NHL draft and win tournament MVP honors at the World Junior Championship in Halifax. But at the team level, Fleury has a long list of goals for 2003-04.The 19-year-old goalie wants to guide Cape Breton, who went 21-379-5 last year, to a first overall finish in the QMJHL and a league championship this season. If he does all that, he knows the personal accolades will follow.&ldquo;We didn&rsquo;t have a very good season last year because we had a young team,&rdquo; Fleury said. &ldquo;But we have a lot of new veterans this year and I think we are going to be one of the best teams in the league.&rdquo;Fleury would also like to win a World Junior Championship title. The 3-2 loss to Russia in last year&rsquo;s gold medal game didn&rsquo;t sit well with him at the time and eats away at him still.&ldquo;It&rsquo;s so special to play for Canada and I&rsquo;m proud that we won silver last year,&rdquo; Fleury said. &ldquo;But it&rsquo;s not gold. That would mean a lot to me.&rdquo;COREY LOCKE, C, OHL Flash in the pan? There&rsquo;s at least one OHL coach who won&rsquo;t say that about Ottawa 67&rsquo;s center Corey Locke.That coach expects the 19-year-old to be as dominant this season as he was in 2002-03, when he skated away with the OHL and Canadian Hockey League scoring titles and was named the most outstanding junior in the country.&ldquo;It was amazing the numbers he put up,&rdquo; said the coach of Locke&rsquo;s 63 goals and 151 points in 66 games.The line of Locke, Matt Foy and Scott Sheppard was the most feared in the OHL.And, although Foy (drafted by the Minnesota Wild) is likely headed to the American League and Sheppard was traded to the London Knights, the coach said that won&rsquo;t keep Locke from another superstar season.&ldquo;He&rsquo;s just so dynamic. He doesn&rsquo;t have world-class speed, but his head for the game makes up for that.&ldquo;He had the luxury of playing with some good players last year, but he&rsquo;ll raise the level of whoever he&rsquo;s playing with.&rdquo;Locke&rsquo;s skating was one reason he was cut by Canada&rsquo;s national junior team, but that didn&rsquo;t turn off the Montreal Canadiens at the entry draft. They selected the 5-foot-9,175-pounder with the 113th overall pick.Ottawa coach Brian Kilrea has seen the fire in Locke&rsquo;s eyes once and said it will be there this season. &ldquo;He knows he&rsquo;s going to have to go out and prove himself again,&rdquo; Kilrea said.Bad news for the OHL opposition.JOSH HARDING, G, WHL Few WHL players have an opportunity to repeat as the most valuable player; the award is usually captured by a graduating player. But Regina goalie Josh Harding is a rare exception.The 18-year-old was named the WHL&rsquo;s top player of 2002-03. Could he win the award again?&ldquo;It would be nice, but I&rsquo;m just going to worry about what happens with the team,&rdquo; Harding said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;d trade that award in a second as long as our team&rsquo;s doing well and we make it far in the playoffs.&rdquo;Harding has been conspicuous at the podium during both of his major junior seasons. In the spring of 2002, he was named the Eastern Conference&rsquo;s rookie of the year. One year later, he was honored as the league&rsquo;s MVP and top goaltender.Harding sparkled for the 2002-03 Pats, who set a league record for the fewest goals scored in a 72-game season (171). Despite the offensive futility, Regina was able to make the playoffs with a 25-28-14-5 record. In 57 games as a WHL sophomore, Harding boasted a.914 save percentage.A comparable season in 2003-04 would put Harding in line to become only the second repeat MVP in league history. Goalie Mike Vernon of the Calgary Wranglers was recognized in 1981-82 and 1982-83.-WITH FILES FROM JIM CRESSMAN, WILLY PALOV & ROB VANSTONE<h2>THE THREE AMIGOS</h2>Here are our projected 2003-04 MVPs for the QMJHL, OHL and WHL.Marc-Andre Fleury Cape Breton, G Drafted: 1st overall, 2003 (Pittsburgh)Corey Locke Ottawa, C Drafted: 113rd overall, 2003 (Montreal)Josh Harding Regina, G Drafted: 38th overall, 2003 (Minnesota)<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0025-02746/8474413-1-eng-US/f0025-022.jpg" title="f0025-02" width="176" height="208"><figcaption class="caption-body">Willy Palov</figcaption><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0025-03515/8474406-1-eng-US/f0025-032.jpg" title="f0025-03" width="176" height="208"><figcaption class="caption-body">Jim Cressman</figcaption><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0025-04342/8474399-1-eng-US/f0025-042.jpg" title="f0025-04" width="176" height="208"><figcaption class="caption-body">Rob Vanstone</figcaption></div>The Hockey News top-10 ranking of Memorial Cup contenders was determined by our Canadian Hockey League correspondents: Willy Palov (QMJHL), Jim Cressman (OHL) and Rob Vanstone (WHL). They anoint the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles as the team to beat for 2004.<h2>The Hockey News TOP TEN</h2><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0025-05246/8474392-1-eng-US/f0025-052.jpg" title="f0025-05" width="511" height="415"></div> &#9632;

f0025-01

Fleury’s star shining

<div class="byline">BY ROB VANSTONE</div><div class="image-hero"><img title="f0026-01" src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0026-011221/8474458-1-eng-US/f0026-012.jpg"><figcaption class="caption-body">GOT IT COVERED&nbsp;Regina goalie Josh Harding, last year&rsquo;s WHL MVP, hopes he can help the Pats improve this season.</figcaption></div>The Western League has grown over the offseason. The expansion Everett (Wash.) Silvertips give the WHL 20 teams, divided into the U.S., B.C., Central and East Divisions.Here&rsquo;s our projected overall finish for 2003-04:1. KELOWNA ROCKETSAlthough Kelowna lost forwards Jesse Schultz and Kiel McLeod to graduation, a solid nucleus remains from the team which won the WHL championship last season. Tyler Mosienko is the top returning scorer (83 points) and defenseman Josh Gorges leads a solid blueline. In goal, the Rockets could welcome back 20-year-old Kelly Guard, who sported a Canadian Hockey League-record 1.93 goals-against average last year. The Rockets don&rsquo;t have as much firepower as they did last year, but there&rsquo;s plenty of talent-especially behind the bench, where Marc Hab-scheid returns. Kelowna, which will host the 2004 Memorial Cup, will be sure to fill any holes via trades.<div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0026-02871/8474451-1-eng-US/f0026-022.jpg" title="f0026-02" width="384" height="412"></div>2. SWIFT CURRENT BRONCOS On paper, the Broncos boast the league&rsquo;s top offensive unit. Center Jeremy Williams leads the way, while Tyler Redenbach and Aaron Richards are key returnees. Swift Current also welcomes two potential impact forwards from U.S. colleges-Alex Leavitt and Ty Morris.On defense, the Broncos boast Ian White, who has scored 55 goals over the past two seasons. The only question is in goal, where untested Kyle Moir, 17, will start.Randy Smith, who was a Broncos assistant coach last season, is now head coach, while Brad McEwen, the coach-GM last year, is now concentrating on GM duties.3. BRANDON WHEAT KINGSYear after year, the Wheat Kings ice a competitive team-and this season won&rsquo;t be different. Owner-GM Kelly McCrimmon is renowned as an elite judge of talent and there is plenty of it at the disposal of first-year WHL coach Mike Kelly, who has extensive OHL experience.Right winger Eric Fehr, selected 18th overall by Washington this summer, has 50-goal potential, while center Ryan Stone (32nd, Pittsburgh) possesses skill and grit. Right winger Rick Kozak (95th, Philadelphia) is poised for a breakout year.There are two burning questions. Can Brandon fill the leadership void created by the graduation of forwards Ryan Craig and Jordin Tootoo? And, can goalie Geoff McIntosh emerge as a bona fide No. 1?4. RED DEER REBELS As long as coach-GM Brent Sutter is behind the bench, Red Deer will be a competitive team. Although the latest edition of the Rebels is not laden with offensive talent, they aren&rsquo;t likely to require many goals in order to win. Red Deer has Cam Ward, one of the CHL&rsquo;s elite goalies, in net and big, skilled Dion Phaneuf on the blueline.Matt Ellison, who scored 96 points, could be returned to Red Deer by his NHL rights-holder, Chicago, but even if that doesn&rsquo;t happen, the Rebels will be decent up front. Colin Fraser may break out this season as a top-flight scorer.5. SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS Coach Dean Chynoweth has grown with his team.6. MEDICINE HAT TIGERS Chris St. Jacques and Stefan Meyer are top-tier forwards.7. KAMLOOPS BLAZERS Will be higher if 54-goal man Eric Christensen returns.8. KOOTENAY ICE Watch for Nigel Dawes, who had 47 goals at age 17.9. VANCOUVER GIANTS Third-year franchise is ready to emerge.10. CALGARY HITMEN Solid defense, plus right winger Ryan Getzlaf, spell success.11. SASKATOON BLADES The team consistently improves under coach Kevin Dickie.12. TRI-CITY AMERICANS Coach Don Nachbaur will have immediate impact.13. PRINCE ALBERT RAIDERS Young team might be a year away.14. MOOSE JAW WARRIORS Departure of GM Lome Molleken will hurt.15. SPOKANE CHIEFS Will be scrappy, win or lose.16. REGINA PATS Could be CHL&rsquo;s worst offensive team.17. PORTLAND WINTER HAWKS A lot like Pats, but without sensational net-minding.18. PRINCE GEORGE COUGARS Mediocre team in tough B.C. Division.19. LETHBRIDGE HURRICANES Lack of offense will sink Canes.20. EVERETT SILVERTIPS Expansion team will have to pay its dues.<h2>WESTERN LEAGUE COACHES</h2>Here are all 20 WHL coaches, listed with age and years with current team.Mike Kelly Brandon, 43, 1st yr. Proven OHL winner builds relationshipsRichard Kromm Calgary, 39, 2nd yr. Takes a patent, thoughtful approachKevin Constantine Everett, 44, 1st yr. Watch out for neutral-zone trapDean Clark Kamloops, 39, 1st yr. Relates extremely well to playersMarc Habscheid Kelowna, 40, 5th yr. Thoughtful, technical players&rsquo; coachCory Clouston Kootenay, 33, 2nd yr. Understands game, always in controlMikko Makela Lethbridge, 38, 2nd yr. Brings European influenceW. Desjardins Medicine Hat, 46, 2nd yr. Combines intensity and analytical skillsCurtis Hunt Moose Jaw, 36, 3rd yr. Always looking for mental edgeMike Williamson Portland, 30, 5th yr. Excellent communicatorPeter Anholt Prince Albert, 43, 2nd yr. Fiery, in-your-face WHL veteranEd Dempsey Prince George, 49, 7th yr. Likes to coach with passionBrent Sutter Red Deer, 41, 5th yr. NHL vet commands instant respectBob Lowes Regina, 40, 3rd yr. Ultimate lunchbucket coachKevin Dickie Saskatoon, 39, 4th yr. Known for intensity and work ethicDean Chynoweth Seattle, 34, 4th yr. Disciplined coach has grown with teamAl Conroy Spokane, 37, 2nd yr. Gritty teams molded in Conroy&rsquo;s styleRandy Smith Swift Current, 38, 1st yr. Stickler for details and preparationDon Nachbaur Tri-City, 44, 1st yr. Demands accountabilityDean Evason Vancouver, 39, 2nd yr. Gives players room within system &#9632;

f0026-01

Rockets all fired up

<div class="byline">BY JIM CRESSMAN</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0027-011167/8474496-1-eng-US/f0027-012.jpg" title="f0027-01" width="463" height="283"></div>The Ontario League has changed its process for awarding the Memorial Cup tournament, which will be returning to the OHL in 2005.The winning bidder will now be announced during the first week of May, allowing the host committee to travel to Kelowna, B.C., for the 2004 Memorial Cup.Under the old system, an OHL team used to have to be among the top four in its conference in January in order to be eligible to bid.Here&rsquo;s our projected overall finish for 2003-04:1. SARNIA STING With hardly a weak spot, Sarnia is the team to beat. It has a strong group of forwards coming back in Danny Fritsche, John Hecimovic, Daniel Carcillo and newly acquired overager Daniel Sisca. Joey Tenute&rsquo;s return as another overager would make the Sting the most potent team in the OHL.The defense is solid with Anton Kadeykin, Marek Chvatal, Dave Pszenyczny and power play specialist Travis Chapman.But the Sting&rsquo;s big strength will be in net with cool and unflappable Ryan Munce. He led all rookies last season with the fourthbest goal-against average in the OHL (2.64).The smartest move ownership made was retaining coach Jeff Perry and GM Terry Doran.2. BRAMPTON BATTALION Brampton will be one of the higher scoring teams in the league, especially with a group of forwards that includes Adam Henrich, Brent Burns, Ryan Oulahen and Kamil Kreps and top draft prospect Wojtek Wolski.On defense, it&rsquo;s a little thin, with the team relying on Martin Lojek and Stuart Simmons.But the Battalion will be strong in goal with Brad Topping returning for his fourth year. Backup netminder Kevin Couture is coming off a solid rookie season.Brampton is going to be the class of the Eastern Conference, but coach-GM Stan Butler will have to go look for defensive help. The Battalion will need another couple of quality blueliners if they&rsquo;re to challenge the Sting.3. OWEN SOUND ATTACK Led by captain Brad Richardson, Owen Sound will be Sarnia&rsquo;s biggest adversary in the Western Conference.The Attack is deep down the middle with Patrick Jarrett, Andre Deveaux and Jonathan Lehun. GM Mike Futa added some good young players in Stefan Ruzicka and first round draft pick Bobby Ryan, who could turn out to be the best player to ever play for Owen Sound.The defense is adequate, led by Mark Giordano and veteran Dustin VanBallegooie, and the goaltending is in capable hands with overager John Ceci and draft prospect Dan Lacosta.4. LONDON KNIGHTS London should have the best defense in the OHL and will be even stingier if overager Dennis Wideman returns.The acquisition of Danny Richmond from the University of Michigan-anchors the blueline of Marc Methot, Kyle Quincey, Danny Svyret and draft prospect Adam Nemeth.Up front, acquiring overager Scott Sheppard from Ottawa not only allows him to step out of the shadows of Corey Locke and Matt Foy, but also helps Corey Perry as he won&rsquo;t shadowed as much.Dylan Hunter, along with imports Ivan Khomutov and Vadim Karaga will help with the scoring.The Knights are keeping their fingers crossed that Gerald Coleman can continue the success London enjoyed the past two seasons with Chris Houle in net.5. OTTAWA 67&rsquo;S Corey Locke will key the offense.6. KITCHENER RANGERS Repeating in Western Conference will be tough.7. ST. MICHAEL&rsquo;S MAJORS Andy Chiodo&rsquo;s departure leaves a void in net.8. PLYMOUTH WHALERS Graduation has beached the offense.9. KINGSTON FRONTENACS The best off-season acquisition was coach Jim Hulton.10. GUELPH STORM, Suspect on defense arid in goal.11. PETERBOROUGH PETES No Eric Staal would stall their drive.12. BARRIE COLTS It&rsquo;s Paulo Colaiacovo&rsquo;s turn to shine in net.13. MISSISSAUGA ICEDOGS Patrick O&rsquo;Sullivan and Robbie Schremp are worth seeing.14. WINDSOR SPITFIRES They&rsquo;ll sputter without Kyle Wellwood.15. OSHAWA GENERALS Nathan Horton&rsquo;s return is paramount for the Generals.16. SAGINAW SPIRIT They need to load up on gunners to have a chance.17. SAULT STE. MARIE GREYHOUNDS Jeff Carter will have to be a one-man show.18. ERIE OTTERS They&rsquo;ll continue their 2002 post-championship withdrawal.19. SUDBURY WOLVES Rookie coach-GM Mike Foligno needs time.20. BELLEVILLE BULLS A tough initiation awaits first-year coach James Boyd.<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0027-02797/8474489-1-eng-US/f0027-022.jpg" title="f0027-02" width="3197" height="3008"><figcaption class="caption-body">DANGEROUS SNIPER&nbsp;Look for Ottawa&rsquo;s Corey Locke to once again light up OHL lamps. He led all major junior scorers with 63 goals and 151 points in 66 games last season.</figcaption></div><h2>ONTARIO LEAGUE COACHES</h2>Here are all 20 OHL coaches, listed with age and years with current team.Bud Stefanski Barrie, 48, 4th yr. Teams always hard-nosedJames Boyd Belleville, 27, 1st yr. Relates with his playersStan Butler Brampton, 47, 6th yr. Defense stressed firstDave MacQueen Erie, 44, 5th yr. Preaches fire-wagon hockeyShawn Camp Guelph, 43, 2nd yr. System stresses offensive pressureJim Hulton Kingston, 34, 1st yr. New-age, technically soundPeter DeBoer Kitchener, 35, 3rd yr. Demands a lot and gets itDale Hunter London, 43, 3rd yr. Playoff hockey all seasonGreg Gilbert Mississauga, 41, 1st yr. Brings pro game to OHLGeorge Burnett Oshawa, 39, 4th yr. Real business-like approachBrian Kilrea Ottawa, 68, 27th yr. Has changed with the timesMike Stothers Owen Sound, 39, 2nd yr. Always well-preparedRick Allain Peterborough, 34, 6th yr. Coaches the way he played-gritty.Mike Velluci Plymouth, 37, 3rd yr. Up-tempo, utilizes speedDennis Desrosiers Saginaw, 54, 2nd yr. In your face, physicalJeff Perry Sarnia, 32, 4th yr. Gets most out of benchMarty Abrams S.S. Marie, 38, 1st yr. Enjoyed great success in Jr.A Mike Foligno Sudbury, 44, 1st yr. Hardworking as a proDave Cameron St. Michael&rsquo;s, 45, 4th yr. Prefers a thinking man&rsquo;s gameSteve Smith Windsor, 41, 1st yr. Well-prepared as Petes assistant &#9632;

f0027-01

Sting ready to strike

<div class="byline">BY WILLY PALOV</div><div class="figure-block image-block"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0028-02841/8474534-1-eng-US/f0028-022.jpg" title="f0028-02" width="364" height="427"></div>Quebec League commissioner Gilles Cour-teau approved two franchise relocations over the summer.The Montreal Rocket moved to Charlottetown, P.E.I., and the Sherbrooke Castors crossed the border to become the Lewiston (Me.) Maineiacs. There are now five teams in the Maritimes, one in the U.S. and 10 in Quebec.The league will re-align to a three-division format. For the playoffs, 13 of 16 teams will qualify, with the three division winners receiving first round byes. Here&rsquo;s our projected overall finish for 2003-04:1. CAPE BRETON SCREAMING EAGLES The Eagles dealt away several key veterans at last year&rsquo;s trade deadline to acquire players who would help them this season. The purge nearly dropped Cape Breton into the league basement, but now the risk appears worth it.The Eagles are the league&rsquo;s deepest team up front after adding Jean-Francois Cyr, F-P Guenette, Marc-Andre Bernier, Michael Tessier and Karl Fournier to their top two lines.They also put Alexandre Picard, Charles Fontaine and newcomer Tim Ramholt onto their blueline to give them a formidable defense.Having goalie Marc-Andre Fleury to anchor things makes the Eagles the team to beat.2. MONCTON WILDCATS It has been four long years of building in Moncton, but the wait appears to be over.The Wildcats&rsquo; success will depend on their buildingblock players at each position. Right winger Steve Bernier is the go-to guy up front, goalie Corey Crawford is coming off a solid second season and blueliner James Sanford is the best puckrusher in the league.Beyond those three stars, the Wildcats have excellent depth. They are stocked with a number of above-average role players and up-and-coming draftees who will push the older players.3. GATINEAU OLYMPIQUES The Olympiques weren&rsquo;t supposed to do much last year-when they were known as the Hull Olympiques-because they were a relatively young team. But they ended up winning the league title and making it to the Memorial Cup final.Though they would love to get back to the final and finish the job, a few off-season losses will slow the team down. Sniper Mathieu Brunelle signed with the Philadelphia Flyers and top blueliner Jeff Smith died tragically in a summer accident.<div class="figure-block image-bleed"><img src="/var/site_2854/storage/images/media2/images/f0028-011209/8474527-1-eng-US/f0028-012.jpg" title="f0028-01" width="3198" height="2996"><figcaption class="caption-body">NET COVERAGE&nbsp;Marc-Andre Fleury, chosen first overall by Pittsburgh in the 2003 NHL draft, is the Eagles&rsquo; ace in the hole.</figcaption></div>If the contributions of these two players can be replaced, the Olympiques will go far.Goaltending is a bit of a question mark, but many project David Tremblay to be a solid starter. The real key will be the continued fine coaching of Benoit Groulx.4. SHAWINIGAN CATARACTES If Gatineau was an unexpected success story last year, Shawinigan was the polar opposite. Projected by many to be an elite team, the Cataractes floundered early and then pulled the plug at Christmas.A series of shrewd moves by management has put them back in the mix. Newcomer Benoit Mondou gives them a top threat up front and returning center Jimmy Cuddihy finally appears ready to fulfill his potential.If the scouting reports are to be believed, 17-year-old goalie Julien Ellis-Plante should be up to the challenge of the starter&rsquo;s role.5. RIM0USKI OCEANIC Drafting phenom Sidney Crosby jump-started the rebuilding process.6. VAL-D&rsquo;OR FOREURS A lunchpail squad that skates opponents into the ice.7. P.E.I. ROCKET The goaltending is questionable, but the core is solid.8. DRUMMONDVILLE VOLTI-GEURS Should creep up the standings after a dismal year.9. CHICOUTIMI SAGUENEENS Better depth players would put them into the top tier.10. HALIFAX MOOSEHEADS Youngsters will have to overachieve.11. ROUYN-NORANDA HUSKIES They have some good players, but no great ones.12. QUEBEC REMPARTS Owner-GM Patrick Roy&rsquo;s magic can only do so much.13. ACADIE-BATHURST TITAN Look for the Titan to hold a fire sale at Christmas.14. LEWISTON MAINEIACS It will be a tough first year in their new home.15. VICTORIAVILLE TIGRES It&rsquo;s time to rebuild.16. BAIE-COMEAU DRAKKAR Not much left after last year&rsquo;s run.<h2>QUEBEC LEAGUE COACHES</h2>Here are all 16 QMJHL coaches, listed with years with current team.Real Paiement Acadie-Bathurst, 4th yr. Master of positional hockeyMartin Laperriere Baie-Comeau, 1st yr. Rookie has yet to make an imprintPascal Vincent Cape Breton, 5th yr. Players&rsquo; coach with quiet fireRene Matte Chicoutimi, 2nd yr. Isn&rsquo;t afraid to open things upFrancis Breault Drummondville, 2nd yr. Promotes power of positive thinkingBenoit Groulx Gatineau, 3rd yr. Respected tactician and motivatorShawn MacKenzie Halifax, 4th yr. Tireless teacher preaches hard workMario Durocher Lewiston, 2nd yr. Has history of building title winnersChristian Larue Moncton, 3rd yr. A classic taskmasterAlain Vigneault P.E.I., 2nd yr. Carries clout because of NHL resumeEric Lavigne Quebec, 2nd yr. Won&rsquo;t settle for less than perfectionDonald Dufresne Rimouski, 2nd yr. Former NHL blueliner thinks &lsquo;D&rsquo; firstAndre Tourigny Rouyn-Noranda, 2nd yr. Focuses on offense off transitionDenis Francoeur Shawinigan, 8th yr. Likes the skating gameClaude Bouchard Val D&rsquo;Or, 4th yr. Demands intensity and girtJudes Vallee Victoriaville, 2nd yr. Communicates well with players &#9632;

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Cape Breton soaring

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September 23, 2003

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Holland faces choice over forwards’ future

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