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August 31, 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.
Bouwmeester in to replace Pronger
He's not even 21 yet, but Jay Bouwmeester is a veteran when it comes to international hockey. When Bouwmeester, named best defenseman at the 2003 world championship, was named to replace injured St. Louis defenseman Chris Pronger on Canada's World Cup roster, it marked international tournament No. 6 for the Panthers blueliner. Bouwmeester won medals at three world junior championships for Canada before winning back-toback gold medals at the world championship. Since 2000, only Edmonton's Ryan Smyth has more appearances for Canada in major international hockey. “We are disappointed that Chris could not participate, but this gives a great opportunity to one of Canada's rising young stars,” said Team Canada executive director Wayne Gretzky. “When you can replace Chris with a player of Jay's caliber, it shows you how much depth we have…
Smyth crosses pond for last shot at NHL
After a year in chilly Finland, 'Shooter' is aiming for another shot at the NHL in sunny Los Angeles. Brad 'Shooter' Smyth, the last player to hit the 50-goal mark in the American League, returns to North America after signing a contract with the Kings. The right winger played last year in Finland, where he toiled with Karpat. “It was a real positive experience,” said Smyth of Europe, “but I wanted to give it another crack over here.” The AHL's MVP and top scorer in 1995-96, Smyth has played 88 career NHL games with Florida, Los Angeles, the Rangers, Nashville and Ottawa. When players head overseas, it usually spells the end of their North American careers, but Smyth has other plans. “It's not my life-long dream to play in Europe for an extended amount of…
Nabokov delighted to be back in tank
Of the 133 players drafted by the San Jose Sharks, none have become more important to the team's success than Evgeni Nabokov. And thanks to a new two-year deal worth $4,425 million annually, no player drafted and developed by the Sharks has ever been so handsomely paid. “The most important part of it is I know I will be with the organization and I'm not going to be worried about it again next year,” said Nabokov, who held out a month into the 2002-03 season. “I've always believed we have a good organization and I really like it.” Nabokov, 29, enjoyed a strong bounce-back season last year, only to top his strong campaign with an outstanding playoff. Nabokov went 10-7 and posted a 1.71 goalsagainst average in leading the Sharks to the…
Nilnimaa lands deal to remain nn Island
Admitting the move was to protect ourselves” against the breakup of one of the NHL's deepest blueline corps, the Islanders avoided an arbitration hearing with Janne Niinimaa and signed the veteran defenseman to a three-year contract worth $9.5 million. “We were hoping to get Janne signed for a few years because we love the intensity he brings every moment he's at the rink,” said GM Mike Milbury. “I'm glad we were able to go long-term, without the arbitration process, and come together on a fair deal.” Backline staples Adrian Aucoin and Kenny Jonsson each have one year remaining on their respective contracts, while Roman Hamrlik remained unsigned for 2004-05 as of Aug. 17 after rejecting his $3.6 million qualifying offer. The 29-year-old Niinimaa had nine goals and 28 points last season. JOB OPENINGS Coach…
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