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March 30, 2004
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-tanking' mindset has Pens performing
Just when the Penguins looked like a mortal lock for 30th place and thus for the best chance to draft Alexander Ovechkin a funny thing happened: they started winning. This, despite recalling no-names from the minors on emergency recall. This, despite sending productive players to the their American League affiliate in Wilkes-Barre. This, despite acquiring veterans who were non-factors on previous teams. Almost all the new guys unexpectedly played well and the Pens won seven of 12 to pull within five points of Washington for 29th overall after 74 games as of March 17. Coach Eddie Olczyk insisted there would be no tanking. “I coach to win and our players play to win,” Olczyk said. “There are no guarantees where we end up and who gets the No. 1 pick.” CONTRACT COMMITMENTS The Pens should…
NOTEBOOK
Tonya Harding's performance at “Guaranteed Fight Night” March 12 in Indianapolis was as predictable as reality TV. The former U.S. Olympic figure skater/part-time boxer/reality TV celebrity, was signed by the Ice as part of a promotion. Harding, 33, “knocked out” her manager, who was wearing oversize gloves, during intermission of the Ice's game against the Colorado Eagles. She did not actually take to the ice. According to the Indianapolis Star, her less-than-competitive bout drew both boos and jeers from many of the 7,714 fans a season-high crowd for the Ice.…
Hitchcock goes with instinct, names Esche playoff No. 1
This time, Ken Hitchcock is trusting his instincts. A year ago, the Flyers coach wanted goalie Robert Esche to start in the playoffs, but Roman Cechmanek got one more chance. Now, Hitchcock has seen enough. The Flyers brought in goalie Sean Burke before the trade deadline for insurance. But all year, Esche has been building a case for faith in the post-season and it has paid off. The Flyers named Esche their playoff man halfway through this season; he has paid them back with consistent play, including a 4-1-2 mark since coming off a sprained knee in February. Esche topped that streak off by out-dueling New Jersey's Martin Brodeur twice in one week. “We knew what we had halfway through last year,” Hitchcock said. “I think we could have even accelerated (Esche's progress)…
Kidd's questionable play gets Leafs fans sweating
Ed Belfour historically does not like another goalie threatening his No. 1 status, which makes Trevor Kidd the perfect backup for him. For the Maple Leafs, though? That was open to debate after a slew of questionable outings in which Kidd and the Maple Leafs were lit up in a big way. That would not be a problem but for the fact the Leafs are one Belfour back spasm away from Kidd being their No. 1 goalie in the playoffs. The spectre of that led many to believe the Leafs would acquire another goalie at the trade deadline, a move not made by rookie GM John Ferguson. Kidd was asked whether he'd beaten himself up over his shaky play. “Are you kidding me? I have three kids and a wife,” he said.…
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