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November 14, 2006
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.
Ruzicka finds home on Flyers’ first line
ROOKIE REPORT With John Stevens, formerly coach of the AHL’s Phantoms, in charge of the Flyers, five rookies feel right at home. Stefan Ruzicka, RW The highly skilled 21-year-old Slovak has made big strides by showing a willingness to play in traffic. He had a goal and two points in two games on the top line. Lars Jonsson, D A high ankle sprain at the end of pre-season cost him three weeks. The Flyers want to utilize his hard, accurate shot on the power play. Alexandre Picard, D A steady rearguard, he was called up when veteran Nolan Baumgartner was placed on waivers. Ben Eager, LW The tough guy is bent on proving he can contribute more than the odd scuffle. Triston Grant, LW Carrying on the tradition of Flyers enforcers, Grant has worked his…
FAN SHOOTOUT
G 32 Amanda Yost from Woodridge, Ill., asks You’ve been amazing on shootouts, what is your strategy? The key for me is to focus and be aggressive. I don’t like to give the shooter the opportunity to gain the advantage. John Kingsley from Atlanta asks How do you like Atlanta so far? What are your favorite things to do in the city? I love it here and the people are very friendly. The schedule during the season is pretty full, but the weather is great and I try to enjoy the awesome food and restaurants around Atlanta. Melissa Johnson from Dawsonville, Ga., asks Besides your family, what do you miss most about Finland? I probably miss the different type of food, Finnish entertainment and just speaking and hearing the language. Nicky Nixon from Atlanta asks What kind of…
Smith’s solid turns have Tippett smiling
ROOKIE REPORT The Stars are still trying to corner the market on veterans, but a few youngsters hint at what’s around the corner for this team. Backup goalie Mike Smith is getting his introduction into the NHL this season, while forwards Loui Eriksson and Junior Lessard are a phone call away in Iowa (AHL), if injuries crop up. Mike Smith, G Smith is discovering quickly how difficult it will be to take minutes away from workhorse starter Marty Turco, but he’s also earning the trust of the coaches. After wins over Phoenix Oct. 21 and Los Angeles Oct. 28, Smith’s performance – and a 1.00 goals-against average – prodded coach Dave Tippett to say he wouldn’t hesitate to play Smith against any opponent. Smith is a puckhandling goalie by nature, but…
Cohen pays big fee to play with Lincoln
For defenseman Colby Cohen, $10,000 was still the right price. A second-year member of the U.S. under-18 national team development program, the 6-foot-2, 180-pound Cohen, for reasons still unexplained, asked for his unconditional release from the squad in late October. Three days and a cashed check later, Cohen was set free. He immediately signed with Lincoln. Rated 39th overall by International Scouting Services for the 2007 NHL draft, Cohen and family paid the fee per their development agreement with USA Hockey. Cohen scored a goal and an assist in his first two games with Lincoln. “He’s a very talented player who has gained valuable experience with the national program,” said Stars coach Steve Johnson.…