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October 14, 2003
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.
No resting on laurels for Babcock’s crew
If the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim fail to meet expectations this season, it won’t be because they were caught off guard. One season after their unexpected run to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final, the Ducks know full well the challenge they face to avoid a fall from near the top. “We’re back to fighting for one of the eight (playoff) spots,” Anaheim coach Mike Babcock said. “The playoff race for us starts Oct. 8 in Dallas. We better be ready, because if we’re not, it’s going to be a long, long year.” Babcock is counting heavily on anticipated energy resulting from a significant roster change that includes the departure of Paul Kariya, Adam Oates and Steve Thomas, as well as the arrival of Sergei Fedorov and Vinny Prospal. “Life is about embracing…
PLUS MINUS
HEY, IT’S A START The NHL and NHLPA hold face-to-face negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement in Toronto Oct. 1. PLAY TIME IS OVER in an effort to save a sinking franchise. Rangers GM Glen Sather issues a dress code, strict dressing room rules. BACK FOR ANOTHER SHOT Alexandre Daigle attempts to resurrect his NHL career signing a one-year contract with Minnesota. …BUT CAN YOU PLAY? San Jose’s Scott Parker, a recognized NHL heavyweight, is ejected from a pre-season game for engaging in three fights. QMJHL TRADE POLICY Allowing teams to trade players on the condition they be returned the following season is bush league. LOW BLOW Garth Snow responding to Martin Brodeur’s criticism of oversized goalie pads by bringing up the Devil’s personal life is a cheap shot.…
Pronger’s return monitored closely
The comeback to “The Comeback” came Oct. 1 in Grand Forks, N.D., for Chris Pronger. After missing most of training camp with a sprained knee sustained on the first day of camp, Pronger’s long-awaited return came in an exhibition game against Minnesota at the University of North Dakota. Pronger continues to cautiously approach this season, his first after missing all but 12 games last year because of wrist and knee surgeries. Knowing Pronger’s pivotal importance to the team’s hopes this season, the Blues are cautious, too. Coach Joel Quenneville stresses Pronger’s ice time - and that of Al Maclnnis - will be watched closely this year. We’ve heard that before, though. But this season is different. By keeping the tandem’s time in the mid-20s on most night, that leaves time for others. Others…
Staal impresses early beside Francis, O’Neill
The only thing standing between Eric Staal and a career in the National Hockey League is a rookie contract. It’s certainly not his play. The 18-year-old center, drafted second overall in the 2003 draft out of Peterborough (OHL), not only led Carolina in scoring with five goals in his first five pre-season games, he led the entire NHL. The Hurricanes auditioned Staal between Ron Francis and Jeff O’Neill, but as it stands now, the organization plans to work him in slowly. Said O’Neill after notching assists on two of Staal’s goals in one pre-season game: “I just like rotating between a superstar 40-year-old and a superstar 18-year-old. It’s a nice little mix.” COACH’S PHILOSOPHY With all the turnover in personnel, Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice wants to change his team’s attitude a bit. The Hurricanes still will…
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