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SPORT-SCAN DAILY BRIEF NHL 1/30/2020 Red Wings 1173475 Ducks honor spirit of Kobe Bryant with 4-2 (or 2-4, if you 1173505 Red Wings' options appear slim as NHL deadline like) win over Coyotes gets closer 1173476 Ducks coach Dallas Eakins to youngsters: ‘Be in the 1173506 How ' prospects are shaping up league because you belong here’ Oilers 1173507 Flames beat Oilers in fiery Battle of theatre 1173477 Rusty Arizona Coyotes start second half of season with 1173508 JONES: Director of player safety takes in Oilers, Flames loss to Anaheim Ducks game 1173478 Coyotes return from extended break with loss to Ducks 1173509 Matt Benning thrown right into fire in Battle of Alberta 1173510 Bad blood, you gotta love it, say 1173511 Game Day: Oilers head back to work with a bang 1173479 Bruins at the Break: Team's biggest strength is a line 1173512 JONES: Oilers to focus on game against Flames that's pure Perfection regardless of NHL watchdogs 1173480 Bruins' David Pastrnak enjoying MVP-caliber season on 1173513 Oilers extend Zack Kassian, betting the power forward can NHL's best contract continue to produce with Connor McDavid 1173481 The half-million dollar hockey card that ties together 1173514 ‘That’s good for hockey’: Former Oilers weigh in on Battle and the Bruins team photographer of Alberta hype ahead of Tkachuk-Kassian meeting 1173515 Wheeler’s 2020 NHL prospect pool rankings: No. 15 Edmonton Oilers 1173482 Carter Hutton to 'carry the ball' for Sabres with Linus 1173516 The half-million dollar hockey card that ties together Ullmark out 3 to 4 weeks Wayne Gretzky and the Bruins team photographer 1173483 Sabres keep changing defense pairings, and not with great impact 1173484 Jonas Johansson’s big opportunity with the Sabres 1173517 Kings fall on a night of tributes to Kobe Bryant arrives. Will he grab it? 1173518 Stamkos, Lightning rally past Kings in somber Staples Center Flames 1173519 Kings honor Kobe Bryant, others in first Staples Center 1173485 Flames top Oilers in shootout battle game since crash 1173486 Gilbertson: Scrap settles Tkachuk-Kassian dispute … for 1173520 JANUARY 29 POSTGAME QUOTES: TODD MCLELLAN, now LIGHTNING 1173487 ‘It makes it awesome, to be honest’: Fight for playoff 1173521 GAME 51: LOS ANGELES VS TAMPA BAY positioning stokes Battle of Alberta 1173522 NO INDICATION DOUGHTY WILL PLAY; FORBORT 1173488 Oilers' Smith gets call against Flames, downplays OUT; RYAN, LIZOTTE BACK IN; LINEUPS significance of facing former team 1173489 Down Goes Brown: What the NHL’s history of player rivalries tells us about how Tkachuk vs. Kassian could end 1173523 Stu Cowan: Tomas Tatar remains a good fit with the Canadiens 1173524 Canadiens Notebook: Brendan Gallagher looks ready to 1173490 Carolina hosts Vegas after Williams’ 2- game return 1173491 Hurricanes hosting Hockey Talks game Friday against 1173525 Why Brendan Gallagher’s recovery from a concussion was Golden Knights far more complicated than people think 1173492 Bag of Jerks, Part 1: The Erik Haula situation, Dougie’s future and is the goaltending set for the season? 1173526 Predators, Tennessee State to announce joint effort to raise $1 million 1173493 Blackhawks prospect Evan Barratt improving his skating, 1173527 Predators make up for mistakes, come back to beat Caps priming himself for NHL future 5-4 1173495 Catching up with Bryan Bickell on his health, his 1173529 Rexrode: Roman Josi is the right leader, even if the championship memories and his post-career mission Predators are all kinds of wrong these days 1173496 Former Avs star returns as GM of USA world’s 1173530 How Alain Nasreddine’s relationship with ex-Devils coach team John Hynes has evolved since change 1173531 NHL trade rumors: Devils’ Kyle Palmieri hasn’t had talks about his future, but his focus remains on N.J. 1173497 John Tortorella at the center of Blue Jackets’ turnaround 1173532 'Did this just happen?': Former Devils coach John Hynes 1173498 Riley Nash enjoying more productive second season with reflects on the end, looks ahead Blue Jackets 1173533 The Athletic Q&A: John Hynes reflects on his time in New 1173499 Blue Jackets trade deadline primer: Possible targets and Jersey and what it will be like to return with the Pr possible bait 1173534 Islanders player poll: The best chirper on the team ‘doesn’t 1173500 Stars notebook: Denis Gurianov sees increase in ice time; spare anyone’ power play continues to struggle 1173501 Stars abandon who they are, lament lack of focus in loss to Maple Leafs 1173502 ‘I really enjoyed it here’: Former Stars forward Jason Spezza soaks in Dallas return 1173503 How some former Stars are faring this season, including Valeri Nichushkin’s resurgance and more 1173504 Stars 20/20: Leafs force Stars into an exciting game, and it ends poorly for Dallas New York Rangers Maple Leafs 1173535 Rangers’ prospect pool is filled with tantalizing talent 1173568 Maple Leafs set franchise road-scoring record as they top 1173536 Rookie goaltender Igor Shesterkin recalled by Rangers Stars 5-3 from AHL 1173569 Maple Leafs force their way back into the playoff race with 1173537 Balancing the good and bad of the Rangers’ current win over Dallas three-goalie system 1173570 Leafs teenager is winning over his teammates with his presence and personality NHL 1173571 Wednesday NHL game preview: at 1173538 NHL doesn’t rule out ‘Kraken’ for team name after Dallas Stars report suggests it has already been chosen 1173572 Maple Leafs set team goal-scoring road record in win over 1173539 NHL Seattle’s scouts are preparing to build a team from Stars scratch. Here’s how. 1173573 Maple Leafs Snapshots: Ring's the thing for Rick Bowness 1173574 Stars interim coach Rick Bowness hopes lucky ring can Senators help beat Maple Leafs 1173540 Back to the future for Ennis, Pageau and the power play, 1173575 Mitch Marner is justifying that big contract for the Maple the numbers from Borowiecki and Duclair Leafs — and flying under the radar in the process 1173541 Hungry Anderson's pizza analogy helps deliver winning 1173576 Leafs Report Cards: is a grinder, and that’s feeling what the Leafs needed 1173542 Senators aren't letting season slip away quietly 1173577 Mirtle: Analyzing the Maple Leafs salary cap situation: Can they afford to go big at the trade deadline? 1173578 How Kyle Dubas’ friendship with Raptors GM Bobby 1173543 Johnny Gaudreau and Buddy Robinson: A Gloucester Webster offers the Leafs a championship roadmap Catholic reunion in NHL 1173544 Little margin for error as Flyers, in a ‘great position,’ get ready for fascinating stretch run 1173589 Canucks 5 Sharks 2: Canucks come back for fourth 1173545 Flyers Notebook: Rest or no, Ivan Provorov keeps rolling straight win along 1173590 Kraken? Probably better than Seattle Sockeyes anyway — 1173546 Flyers prospect Egor Zamula can 'do things that not many and here's why players can' 1173591 Patrick Johnston: Are the Canucks, Judd Brackett headed in different directions? 1173592 Ed Willes: Boeser downplays points slump, but expect 1173547 Minor league report: Alex D’Orio leads Nailers past some panic if it continues Admirals 1173593 Canucks at 50: '98 trade to Islanders more 1173548 Ex-Penguins defenseman Ulf Samuelsson still hopes to sad than a surprise coach in NHL 1173594 Canucks at 50: The day 'it was time for Trevor Linden to 1173549 How Penguins from foreign countries grasped English leave home' language 1173595 Canucks at 50: Trevor Linden trade 'ended both an era and a feud' 1173596 Canucks Game Day: Pettersson adds pushback to his 1173550 Tomas Hertl injured in Sharks’ loss to Vancouver Canucks playmaking poise 1173551 Sharks forward Tomas Hertl injured, leaves game vs. Canucks 1173552 Amid trade rumors, Sharks’ Brenden Dillon set to establish 1173579 Peter DeBoer’s priority as coach is to speed up Golden new franchise record Knights 1173553 Sharks Ice mega expansion approved by San Jose, 1173580 Golden Knights to hold Fan Fest in downtown Las Vegas adding rinks, amenities 1173554 Sharks takeaways: What we learned in deflating 5-2 loss to Canucks 1173581 Capitals continue to fall prey to Predators, drop eighth 1173555 Sharks, Barclay Goodrow feel duty to spread 'Bell Let's straight to Nashville Talk' message 1173582 Jakub Vrana is having a career stretch, with his overall 1173556 How Sharks' Joe Thornton taught Rick Nash to be a pro in game continuing to grow Switzerland 1173583 Puck bounces give, then take away in Caps' loss to 1173557 Dylan Gambrell gets another (final?) chance with the Predators Sharks to show he belongs 1173584 Alex Ovechkin honors Kobe Bryant with No. 24 warmup jersey St Louis Blues 1173585 Alex Ovechkin pays tribute to Kobe Bryant with No. 24 1173558 Blues updates: Sundqvist to IR, Steen could play Friday jersey in pregame warmups 1173559 Blues snap their slump, but Berube isn't impressed 1173586 Capitals vs. Predators: Alex Ovechkin returns from 1173560 Blues notebook: Blais returns but Sundqvist out with injury suspension 1173561 Blues snap losing streak with 5-4 shootout win over Flames 1173562 Blues still not immune to injury bug as Sundqvist heads to IR 1173563 Blues get 1st SO win, beat Flames 5-4 1173564 Lightning players struck by Kobe Bryant’s death 1173565 Things to do: Nine ways to celebrate ‘Hockey Week in Tampa Bay’ 1173566 Lightning’s Erik Cernak scores game-winner against the Kings 1173567 With Yanni Gourde in a ‘rattling,’ two-month slump, Lightning teammates can relate Websites 1173597 The Athletic / Bourne: What does it mean when players or coaches talk about ‘the little things’? 1173598 The Athletic / Duhatschek: Does toughness still matter in today’s NHL? 1173599 The Athletic / Pronman: Ranking the 2020 NHL top prospects at midseason 1173600 The Athletic / Down Goes Brown: What the NHL’s history of player rivalries tells us about how Tkachuk vs. Kass 1173601 .ca / Flames, Oilers add classic chapter to Battle of Alberta lore 1173602 Sportsnet.ca / Oilers, Flames still separated by thinnest margins after latest battle 1173603 Sportsnet.ca / Canucks begin difficult road trip with resilient win over Sharks 1173604 Sportsnet.ca / Leafs' Nylander closing in on family history with renewed swagger 1173605 Sportsnet.ca / 31 Thoughts: Maple Leafs' fortunes will decide deadline approach 1173606 Sportsnet.ca / Senators should wait out Anthony Duclair offers as trade deadline nears 1173607 Sportsnet.ca / Love of golf unites Maple Leafs at Augusta National during unique trip 1173608 Sportsnet.ca / Canadiens hit by flu bug just as return to full health on horizon 1173609 Sportsnet.ca / Battle of Alberta: What would an Oilers- Flames playoff series look like? 1173610 TSN.CA / Toronto Maple Leafs D Rasmus Sandin’s comfort level rising fast 1173611 TSN.CA / Canucks @ Sharks Gameday Preview 1173612 TSN.CA / weighs in on , renewed Battle of Alberta 1173613 USA TODAY / L.A. Kings honor Kobe Bryant in first sporting event at Staples Center since his death 1173614 USA TODAY / Capitals star Alex Ovechkin honors late Kobe Bryant by donning No. 24 in warm-ups 1173615 USA TODAY / Oilers' Zack Kassian, Flames' Matthew Tkachuk satisfy the hype and drop the gloves 1173587 With the trade deadline approaching, the Jets should be focusing on the future 1173588 Could Jets revisit Rasmus Ristolainen trade? 5 defencemen for Winnipeg to target as deadline approaches SPORT-SCAN, INC. 941-284-4129 1173475 Anaheim Ducks Moments later, Henrique sent a laser from close range off Raanta and then off the goal post.

The Coyotes chased the game from then on, and they even seemed bent Ducks honor spirit of Kobe Bryant with 4-2 (or 2-4, if you like) win over on turning it into a physical contest for a brief stretch in the second Coyotes period. The Ducks were only too happy to go that direction, claiming a 4- 2 advantage thanks to some sound killing.

By ELLIOTT TEAFORD | [email protected] | Orange County Register The Ducks sandwiched goals from Hampus Lindholm and Rowney around Lawson Crouse’s goal for the Coyotes in the second period. PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 9:53 pm | UPDATED: January 29, Things threatened to spiral out of control when Nick Ritchie of the Ducks 2020 at 11:08 PM and of the Coyotes squared off behind the net.

Oddly, Ritchie was the only one to be penalized, receiving a roughing minor. Ritchie went free only to be penalized again moments later for ANAHEIM — A lone voice rang out during 24 seconds of silence before interference. Not only did the Ducks kill off that penalty to Ritchie, but the Ducks defeated the Arizona Coyotes 4-2 on Wednesday at Honda Rowney restored their two-goal lead with a putback of Derek Grant’s Center, and the Southern sports community attempted to get . back to something resembling normal after nine were killed in Sunday’s tragic helicopter crash. Grant said he looked up at the scoreboard later and saw how the number 24 had been aligned. Soon others followed. “It was definitely weird,” Grant said. “It’s one of those things you laugh at “Ko-be, Ko-be, Ko-be,” they chanted in the darkened arena. almost at the timing of it. It was a cool thing to see that go up there. The Ducks took the ice and tried to honor the spirit and the Whoever figured that out that quickly deserves a raise maybe. It’s always uncompromising will of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, who was one of nine cool to see something like that happen.” Orange County residents killed when the helicopter in which they were riding crashed into a hillside in foggy conditions early Sunday morning in Calabasas. Orange County Register: LOADED: 01.30.2020 It also was Angels Night at Honda Center, an annual event scheduled months ago.

Angels manager Joe Maddon dropped the ceremonial puck between captains Ryan Getzlaf of the Ducks and Oliver Ekman-Larsson of the Coyotes as a small but vocal crowd cheered. But there was more to Wednesday’s game and it was impossible to ignore the loss felt throughout the region.

Some fans had donned Bryant’s No. 24 or No. 8 jerseys, seated among those in Ducks or Angels gear.

“That’s just an unbelievable tragedy for all those families,” Ducks coach Dallas Eakins said. “Kobe Bryant has had an unbelievably positive influence on Southern California and to honor him tonight, I thought that was incredible from our players and our organization and most importantly those fans up there. It was very surreal and somber and humbling standing on that bench.”

Appropriately enough, on this of all nights, Carter Rowney, who wears No. 24 on the back of his sweater, scored a short-handed goal on the Ducks’ 24th shot in their 24th home game to make the score 4-2 (or 2-4, if you wish) at 19:14 of the second period.

Sustained chants of “Ko-be, Ko-be, Ko-be” rang out when the Ducks showed those facts and figures on the Honda Center scoreboard during a TV timeout not long after Rowney’s goal. The in-house cameras then panned to a number of fans wearing Bryant’s jerseys.

“For that to happen, I’m not sure what to believe sometimes when it comes to religion and things like that,” Eakins said at game’s end. “But I do wonder if that happened by accident or was that part of the night? I get goosebumps just standing here talking about that.”

The Ducks were listless Monday during a 4-2 loss to the San Jose Sharks, their first game after a nine-day layoff for the bye week and the All-Star break. They did not wish to have a repeat in their first home game since a Jan. 9 loss to the Dallas Stars.

Adam Henrique scored two first-period goals and narrowly missed a third as the Ducks seized a 2-1 lead by the end of the opening frame Wednesday. Henrique’s first came on a shot from Troy Terry that ricocheted off his leg and into the net. His second was a thing of beauty, the rarest of all goals.

Henrique broke into the zone with Ondrej Kase on his left. Henrique passed to Kase, who then performed a spin-o-rama move to return to the puck to Henrique, who then smacked it past Arizona goaltender Antti Raanta for a 2-1 lead at 16:09 of the first period.

“It was a great play by him,” Henrique said of Kase. “He’s a guy who’s got that skill in his game. I tried to make a play for him and he makes that next play. I tried to get to the net there and get a good stick on it and take that one. It was a good play by him.” 1173476 Anaheim Ducks NHL club. De Leo, a La Mirada native, was scoreless in the Ducks’ victory Jan. 16 over the Nashville Predators. He has seven goals and seven assists in 33 games with the Gulls.

Ducks coach Dallas Eakins to youngsters: ‘Be in the league because you belong here’ Orange County Register: LOADED: 01.30.2020

By ELLIOTT TEAFORD | [email protected] | Orange County Register

PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 5:58 pm | UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 6:43 PM

ANAHEIM — Coach Dallas Eakins wanted the Ducks to win the opening faceoff of Wednesday’s game against the Arizona Coyotes at Honda Center. He wanted them to record the first shot on goal, the first hit and the first takeaway. He wanted them to win the first battle for a loose puck and to score the first goal.

It was no different from any other game.

The Ducks were woefully slow out of the gate during their loss Monday to the Sharks in San Jose, the first game after their nine-day layoff for their bye week and the All-Star break. It was another teachable moment for the Ducks’ many young and inexperienced players.

Or so it seemed.

Eakins disagreed.

“I know we’ve talked a lot about the young guys, the young guys,” Eakins said, repeating himself for emphasis. “They know what needs to be done. This isn’t something about learning how they have to start well. They know they have to start well. They understand what it brings to a game.”

The Ducks coaching and management staffs have been eager to see one of their many young players make a leap this season, knowing that improvement was more likely to be measured in small increments. None of them have made anything resembling a dramatic stride so far, though.

Now, clearly, expectations have risen.

“We’re to a where we’re going to have patience with those young guys, but, hey, you’ve been in the league all year, you’ve got lots of reps under your belt, in important situations, in special teams situations, you’ve got to stand up and be counted now,” Eakins added. “Don’t be in the league because you’re young. Be in the league because you belong here.”

IMPROVED STARTS (PART 2)

The Ducks, like most teams in the NHL, have been far better when dictating the terms of the game rather than chasing it from the opening draw. Scoring first has been especially important since the Ducks were 12-8-3 when striking first and 7-17-2 when the opposition struck first.

“Whoever scores the first goal, you’re laying your money on them to win the game,” Eakins said. “So, it is important. It’s just like getting a couple of shots early in the game. How can we feel good about what’s going on? The more you feel good, the more good things happen. You start feeling anxious or not good about your game, there’s probably more of that coming.”

The Ducks were 19-25-5, 28th in the NHL’s overall standings, going into Wednesday.

IMPROVED STARTS (PART 3)

Eakins said winning the opening faceoff can lead to good things. He was upset the Ducks were not in the right frame of mind in the moments before, during and after the opening draw Monday against the Sharks, when they fell behind by two goals less than five minutes into the game.

“You want to send a message,” he said. “Hey, we mean business tonight. It’s not, tap the other guy on the pads and, ‘Hey how you doing? How was your break?’ No, we mean business. Our body language sets the tone and then, obviously, everything after that. You need a good start, you need to a good middle, you need a good finish. It’s always something you always need to improve on.”

DE LEO REASSIGNED

The Ducks reassigned center Chase De Leo to the San Diego Gulls of the AHL, after he played in only one game in recent two recalls to the 1173477 Arizona Coyotes

Rusty Arizona Coyotes start second half of season with loss to Anaheim Ducks

Staff Report

The Associated Press

Published 11:01 p.m. MT Jan. 29, 2020 | Updated 11:02 p.m. MT Jan. 29, 2020

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Adam Henrique scored twice, Carter Rowney had a short-handed goal and the Anaheim Ducks defeated the Arizona Coyotes 4-2 on Wednesday night.

Hampus Lindholm also scored for the Ducks, who have won three of four. Derek Grant added two assists and John Gibson stopped 25 shots.

Henrique — who leads the Ducks with 17 goals — got the go-ahead score with 3:51 remaining in the first period. Ondrej Kase made a spin move and dished the puck to Henrique in front, setting up the center for his third multi-goal game of the season.

Arizona's third line was responsible for its offense. Vinnie Hinostroza and Lawson Crouse each had a goal and an , while Nick Schmaltz had two assists. Antti Raanta made 28 saves for the Coyotes, who have dropped their last three.

Henrique opened the scoring at 5:39 when Troy Terry's shot deflected off his right skate past Raanta. The goal was set up when Terry intercepted a cross-ice pass from Alex Goligoski at the red line, skated into the Arizona zone and fired a shot from just outside the left circle.

Hinostroza tied it 99 seconds later with a wrist shot off an odd-man rush. It was the forward's fifth goal but his first in 26 games.

Lindholm extended Anaheim's lead to 3-1 at 5:25 if the second with a slap shot from near the blue line. The defenseman has a point in three straight games but it was only his second goal of the season.

Crouse brought the Coyotes back within a goal when his backhand shot deflected off Gibson's blocker with 3:59 remaining in the second for his 12th.

Arizona fell behind by two again when Grant stole the puck from Oliver Ekman-Larsson behind the net. His shot went off Raanta's blocker, but Rowney buried the for his sixth of the season with 46 seconds left in the period. It was Anaheim's ninth short-handed goal this season, third-most in the NHL.

Arizona Republic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173478 Arizona Coyotes

Coyotes return from extended break with loss to Ducks

Staff Report

BY ASSOCIATED PRESS

JANUARY 29, 2020 AT 11:35 PM

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Adam Henrique scored twice, Carter Rowney had a short-handed goal and the Anaheim Ducks defeated the Arizona Coyotes 4-2 on Wednesday night.

Hampus Lindholm also scored for the Ducks, who have won three of four. Derek Grant added two assists and John Gibson stopped 25 shots.

Henrique — who leads the Ducks with 17 goals — got the go-ahead score with 3:51 remaining in the first period. Ondrej Kase made a spin move and dished the puck to Henrique in front, setting up the center for his third multi-goal game of the season.

Arizona’s third line was responsible for its offense. Vinnie Hinostroza and Lawson Crouse each had a goal and an assist, while Nick Schmaltz had two assists. Antti Raanta made 28 saves for the Coyotes, who have dropped their last three.

Henrique opened the scoring at 5:39 when Troy Terry’s shot deflected off his right skate past Raanta. The goal was set up when Terry intercepted a cross-ice pass from Alex Goligoski at the red line, skated into the Arizona zone and fired a shot from just outside the left circle.

Hinostroza tied it 99 seconds later with a wrist shot off an odd-man rush. It was the forward’s fifth goal but his first in 26 games.

Lindholm extended Anaheim’s lead to 3-1 at 5:25 if the second with a slap shot from near the blue line. The defenseman has a point in three straight games but it was only his second goal of the season.

Crouse brought the Coyotes back within a goal when his backhand shot deflected off Gibson’s blocker with 3:59 remaining in the second for his 12th.

Arizona fell behind by two again when Grant stole the puck from Oliver Ekman-Larsson behind the net. His shot went off Raanta’s blocker, but Rowney buried the rebound for his sixth of the season with 46 seconds left in the period. It was Anaheim’s ninth short-handed goal this season, third-most in the NHL.

Arizona Sports LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173479 Boston Bruins It’s the usual wear and tear when the games begin to pile up. Clearly, they lose some of their bounce when the schedule gets a little heavier, but that’s the case for just about every player across the league. And Bruins at the Break: Team's biggest strength is a line that's pure even more so with two of the three members of the line already over 30 Perfection years old.

All that being said, a 10-day break for NHL All-Star Weekend and the B’s ensuing bye week should give the Perfection Line plenty of juice for the By Joe Haggerty remaining 31 games in the regular season headed into the playoffs.

January 29, 2020 5:28 PM Ah yes, the playoffs.

That’s really where the rubber is going to meet the road for the Perfection Line and their ultimate legacy. The “Bruins at the Break” is a five-part series this week with the B’s on a bye and will examine the first half of the regular season and how it could Marchand, Bergeron and Pastrnak were famously stymied by the big, potentially impact the remaining 31 games in the second half of the strong St. Louis defense last June, and have routinely in the past been season. Today we look at the team’s biggest strength in the first half, the smothered by big, strong, deep defensive teams that can push them Perfection Line. away from the danger areas around the net.

There aren’t any secrets behind the success of the Boston Bruins. It was that way when the Perfection Line managed just two goals at even strength in the seven-game Cup Final series and all three forwards They have excellent goaltending that sits second in the NHL in save finished as minus players against the Blues. It was that way two springs percentage (.918) and goals-against average (2.51) at the halfway mark ago as well when the Tampa Bay Lightning defense shut them down in of the season. They have superior special teams play with a top-five the second round of the postseason. power play and a penalty kill led by the NHL’s premier penalty killer in Zdeno Chara. It stands to reason then that the Bruins will once again only go as far in the postseason as the Perfection Line can take them, and that leaves At times they have enjoyed depth in scoring and it seemed like they them with something to prove in the playoffs as a high-powered, two-way could do no wrong in the first few months of the season. But the trio trumpeted as the NHL’s best. The Bruins will hopefully get additional unquestioned strength of this season’s Bruins has been the continued, players at the NHL trade deadline to streamline the offense a little bit, elevated and dominant play of the Perfection Line of Brad Marchand, and of course, it’s a team game where other Bruins players will also need Patrice Bergeron and the NHL’s leading scorer David Pastrnak. to operate at their highest levels. Pastrnak has been doing more of the heavy lifting this season, obviously, But the Perfection Line needs to live up to their name in the postseason with the 23-year-old leading the league with 37 goals scored and ranking like they weren’t able to when it mattered most in last spring's playoffs, fourth in the NHL with 70 points scored in 51 games this season. and a dominant next few months in the regular season will merely serve Pastrnak hasn’t gone more than five games without a goal this entire as a prelude toward answering that open question again in the season and has been held pointless in just 13 of his 51 games this year. postseason. All of that puts him on a pace for 60 goals and 115 points and makes him the player that makes everything else click for the B's right now. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020 Overall, the Perfection Line has 46.7 percent of the Bruins' goals this season with 79 of the team's 169 goals, meaning they are powering up nearly half the Boston offense this season.

The trio does damage in 5-on-5 play with their passing and chemistry along with the individual strengths that Marchand (1-on-1 playmaking), Bergeron (cerebral passing and two-way hustle) and Pastrnak (dazzling game-breaking offense) all bring to the table. And it’s well-documented just how much damage they do as a power-play unit that routinely wins games.

On the one hand, it points to a team that needs to get some production elsewhere in their lineup, but it also holds up the argument that the Perfection Line is indeed the best forward trio in the NHL.

“The way that they can pass the puck, and you even see it in practice that they always make the extra pass. I’d focus on taking away those chances to make the extra pass to each other, but that definitely would not be an easy task,” said Brandon Carlo, when asked how he’d approach shutting down the Perfection Line as a shutdown D-man. “I’m glad I don’t have to deal with it. I think they set a great example and they obviously have a lot of success with putting pucks in the net.

“Their chemistry is unbelievable and unmatched in a way. I don’t think it’s a surprise to see other teams trying to emulate what a top line in the league would be doing. It’s fun and it’s a challenge when teams put their top players on a certain line.”

It hasn’t been wall-to-wall domination, of course, as Marchand managed just one goal, an empty-netter, in January, and Bergeron missed time earlier when his troublesome groin issue began acting up again. But the Bruins have bucked media and fan noise about potentially breaking up the line, and resisted the temptation to drop Pastrnak to David Krejci’s line in order to diversify the offense.

Keeping the Perfection Line together has allowed them to continued scoring all over weaker defensive opponents and pile up points in the standings in the regular season.

The only thing that seems to slow down Marchand, Bergeron and Pastrnak in the regular season? 1173480 Boston Bruins

Bruins' David Pastrnak enjoying MVP-caliber season on NHL's best contract

By Nick Goss

January 29, 2020 10:02 AM

Don Sweeney has made several shrewd moves as Boston Bruins , and signing David Pastrnak to a six-year, $40 million contract extension in 2017 stands above the rest.

It's become the best contract in the NHL among players who aren't on their rookie deals.

The Bruins exit their bye week Friday with a road game against the Winnipeg Jets, where Pastrnak will try to build on his league-leading goal tally of 37. He also ranks fourth in scoring with 70 points in 51 games. Barring injury, he'll almost certainly become the Bruins' first 50-goal scorer since in 1993-94.

LIVE stream the Celtics all season and get the latest news and analysis on all of your teams from NBC Sports Boston by downloading the My Teams App.

His advanced stats are stellar, too. The Bruins control puck possession at a high rate with Pastrnak on the ice. They own a plus-123 edge in shot attempts, a plus-63 advantage in shots on goal, a plus-67 lead in scoring chances and a plus-19 tally in goals scored during 5-on-5 play when Pastrnak is on the ice.

In a world where the best young players are getting as much as $9 million, $10 million, $11 million or more per season on their second contracts, Pastrnak is making far less than his counterparts. Pastrnak's contract ranks 74th among all players in salary cap hit at $6.67 million. His cap hit ranks 13th among all right wingers, 15th among players who've scored 20 or more goals and 15th among players with 50-plus points.

Speaking to reporters in November of 2018, Pastrnak had no regrets about the contract he signed.

Here's a look at all the forwards in the top 30 in scoring (as of Wednesday morning) who are 26 years old or younger and not playing on their rookie contracts. You'll notice that only three of the 16 players have a lower cap hit than Pastrnak, including none in the top five.

Auston Matthews is a tremendous player for the Toronto Maple Leafs who has scored 30-plus goals in all four of his NHL seasons, but is he really worth more than 1.5 times as much as Pastrnak? No, he certainly isn't. Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl is ultra-talented, but he plays two-thirds of his 5-on-5 minutes alongside Connor McDavid (the best player in the world). Draisaitl's cap hit is almost $2 million more than Pastrnak's. Mitch Marner is a damn good player who tallied a career-high 94 points last season, but he's not $4 million better than Pastrnak.

Pastrnak did not dominate in the 2019 Final, but to be fair, few of Boston's best players showed up in the last four games (of which the St. Louis Blues won three times, including a Game 7 victory in Boston). The star winger also didn't appear to be 100 percent after battling a thumb injury earlier that season. His overall playoff résumé is quite impressive with 43 points (17 goals, 26 assists) in 42 postseason games.

There's no doubt Pastrnak's contract has been a huge advantage to the Bruins, but it's not even the best story when it comes to the team's salary structure. Boston's top trio of Pastrnak, Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand, also known as the "Perfection Line", is signed through 2021- 22 at a combined cap hit of $19.6 million (!), which is absurdly good value and should help the team remain a top Stanley Cup contender in the short term.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173481 Boston Bruins Babineau quickly responded with the correct answer: Springfield.

“Maybe he was trying to catch me and prove I was wrong, but I proved I was right,” Babineau said. The half-million dollar hockey card that ties together Wayne Gretzky and the Bruins team photographer On the day Gretzky was in Boston earlier this month, he explained how a person could tell the photo used for his NHL rookie card was taken during his WHA days because of the Edmonton sweater, and the way he By Joe McDonald taped his socks.

Jan 29, 2020 In the photo, the Oiler crest is white with orange letters, which was not used once the team joined the NHL for the 1979-80 season. Plus, Gretzky used white tape on his dark socks in his WHA days, which was a no-no in the NHL. Steve Babineau walked into the press room, shaking his head in disappointment. “When we (were in the WHA), and I didn’t even realize this, the Oilers had two crests – one with the blue and one with the white,” Gretzky said. “I blew it,” the Bruins’ team photographer said, the regret clear in his “When we went into the NHL, the league said you could only have one voice. “I don’t have it, and he’s here.” logo, so it got changed to all blue and no orange letters.” The “it” was Wayne Gretzky’s 1979 O-Pee-Chee rookie card. The “he” Gretzky’s connection to Babineau is only one of his many ties to the was No. 99 himself. Bruins. Gretzky was extremely close with Garnet “Ace” Bailey, who Gretzky was in attendance when the Bruins hosted the Edmonton Oilers played for the Bruins in the early ’70s and won a Stanley Cup in Boston. on Jan. 4. Unfortunately for Babineau, he didn’t have the hockey card, The two were teammates with the Oilers in 1978-79 and the veteran which today is worth $1,000 ungraded. A higher grade is worth much became a mentor for the young superstar. Bailey later worked as a scout more; pristine versions have sold for six figures in recent years. for the Oilers and Kings before his death on Sept. 11, 2001, on board United 175 from Boston to Los Angeles, the plane that struck the South “I keep telling him every time I see him to bring the picture in and I’ll sign Tower of the World Trade Center in New York as part of a terrorist plot it for you and he’s yet to bring the picture,” Gretzky told The Athletic. against the United States. “One of these days we’ll get it done.” Gretzky would spend a week every summer with Ace and his wife, Kathy, But believe it or not, Babineau doesn’t want the card signed, like so many at the couple’s home in Lynnfield, Mass. other collectors. What he wants is a photograph of him and Gretzky together, holding the card. “I loved coming here,” Gretzky said.

Why? Gretzky Oilers Bruins Babineau

Babineau is the photographer who took the picture that was originally He explained those days with Ace were spent talking hockey, especially used for Gretzky’s iconic rookie card, the most valuable hockey card ever about those Bruins Stanley Cup teams in the early ’70s that featured made. , Phil Esposito and Wayne Cashman.

In January 1978, the roof of the Hartford Civic Center collapsed, and the “Ace and I used to sit around and he would tell me stories about the then-New England Whalers of the were forced Bruins and Bobby Orr. I had such fond memories and respect for those to relocate north, to the Springfield Civic Center in Massachusetts. The guys,” Gretzky said. “I think Ace used to get tired of me asking him team was still playing there in the spring of 1979 when the 18-year-old questions about Bobby and Phil Esposito.” Gretzky and the Edmonton Oilers arrived for a pair of games on March Of course, Bruins fans of a certain age might ruefully remember “The 30 and April 1. Great One” for his performance in the 1988 Stanley Cup final. The Oilers Babineau, who has been the Bruins’ team photog for 43 years, was won that series in five games against the Bruins. asked to photograph one of the games and he accepted the assignment “It used to be always fun coming into the Boston Garden, but I never based on the opportunity to shoot Gordie Howe, who was playing for the played good in the Boston Garden,” Gretzky said. “I never really had a Whalers. Babineau also knew Gretzky, then wrapping up a 110-point good game in nine years.” debut season, would be there. Well, except one. Babineau remembers that the arena was dark, and that he actually took a picture of Howe and Gretzky together during a faceoff. The money “I played one really good game, which was Game 3 of the Stanley Cup shot, however, the one that was used for Gretzky’s rookie card, featured finals in ’88. I used to get so excited to play in here because I was a huge No. 99 skating between the top of the crease and blue line, looking up at Bobby Orr fan.” the scoreboard. At that moment, Babineau snapped the photo from the penalty box. Gretzky produced a four-point game (four assists) to lead the Oilers to a 6-3 win over the Bruins that night. At the time, Babineau didn’t know Gretzky — who would migrate to the NHL with the Oilers the next season — would eventually smash records When Gretzky was in Boston earlier this month, current Oilers and become perhaps the greatest hockey player of all time, while winning Connor McDavid scored an impressive goal against the Bruins — so four Stanley Cups. good that Gretzky talked about it for days. The goal also made Gretzky recall what it was like during his playing days when the Bruins would “I didn’t realize the first time shooting him what he was going to develop send Cam Neely, Ray Bourque and Steve Kasper out onto the ice into and become the player that he became,” Babineau said. “He added against him. a different dimension to the game, just like Bobby Orr did. (Gretzky) was an unbelievable player and he proved with his numbers and winning the “Try to shadow Connor McDavid and you’ll be about two blue lines Stanley Cup a few times.” behind,” Gretzky said with a laugh.

Even though Babineau certainly remembered taking the photo used for Whenever there’s an opportunity to talk hockey with Gretzky, one has to Gretzky’s rookie card, the photographer didn’t really think much about it take advantage of it. So, The Athletic asked No. 99 what it would have until he heard that one Mint-10 version of the card sold at auction for been like to play against Patrice Bergeron, who is considered the best $465,000 in 2016 to an anonymous buyer. two-way centerman of his generation.

At one point during the 2016 season, Babineau was with the Bruins in “Listen, I love watching players who love to play the game and when you Florida and Gretzky was in attendance. Babineau introduced himself and see Bergeron, (Brad) Marchand and (David) Pastrnak, yeah they’re good explained he was the photographer of that rookie card. Gretzky – very good and talented. My point of view as an ex-player, I love how recognized Babineau, but still wanted to test his knowledge about the they play with passion and how hard they play, and they’re unselfish,” card. Gretzky said.

“Where was it taken?” Gretzky asked. Entering the recent All-Star break, Pastrnak was leading the NHL with 37 goals and he’s on pace to reach 50 for the first time in his career. “I think what Pastrnak is doing is really incredible,” Gretzky said.

Gretzky also believes Bergeron is in a class of his own in today’s game, and that he’s making those players around him better.

“Bergeron has been great. He’s the new Bob Gainey of this era, maybe even closer to a Bobby Clarke because (Bergeron’s) a little more of a threat offensively than Bob Gainey was,” Gretzky said. “As far as being a team player and unselfish, that’s what the game is about and to me I enjoy watching players who love to play and aren’t selfish, and that’s what Bergeron brings to the table every game.”

After the Oilers defeated the Bruins earlier this month, Gretzky walked from his suite on level 5 to the visitors’ dressing room on level 3. On the way he ran into Keith Babineau, who is an assistant equipment manager for the Bruins, the visitors’ locker room attendant and Steve’s son. Gretzky had a message for the younger Babineau.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173482 Buffalo Sabres percentage. Hutton has not won a game since Oct. 22, allowing five or more goals in seven of his 11 starts during that span.

"I don’t think anyone inside this room anyone has ever doubted me or Carter Hutton to 'carry the ball' for Sabres with Linus Ullmark out 3 to 4 anything like that," Hutton said. "Sometimes the picture can get painted weeks outside, you know what I mean, but not everybody has the information, what’s going on. For me, I played a lot of games. It’s not like I just fell off a cliff here. It’s been a rough go, but it’s just hockey. I feel like for a long By Lance Lysowski time I’ve felt good here, and it’s just a matter of getting in.

Published Wed, Jan 29, 2020|Updated Wed, Jan 29, 2020 "At the same time, I haven’t played because Linus has played so well. It wasn’t a lack of what I was doing in practice or anything like that. Linus

has been – everyone’s been watching, right? – he’s been the backbone If the Buffalo Sabres are to close the gap in the Eastern Conference so far. Now I have to get in there and just play my game." playoff race over the next month, they'll have to do so without their There is little margin for error. As Jack Eichel pointed out Tuesday night, starting goalie. every game has become somewhat of a must-win for Buffalo. Eight of its Linus Ullmark, who has been in net for 20 of the Sabres' past 23 games, next nine games are in KeyBank Center, and they're eight points behind will miss three to four weeks with a noncontact, lower-body injury the team closest to them in the standings. suffered during the third period of a 5-2 loss to the on Strong goaltending is an important piece of Krueger's plan to close the Tuesday night in KeyBank Center. gap. Jonas Johansson, a 24-year-old who represented Rochester at the AHL "We know that Carter can step up here," Krueger said. "He had an All-Star Classic on Monday in , Calif., was recalled from the excellent start of the season, some struggles of late. But it was more also Amerks on Wednesday morning. Coach Ralph Krueger declined to the team performing differently in those games. There was some reveal which goalie will start for the Sabres on Thursday night against the overtimes in there that didn’t tip his way, so we’re cheering for him as visiting Montreal Canadiens. loud as anybody to get back on track result-wise. But he’s always worked However, the net appears to be Carter Hutton's to lose. hard and has had some good weeks now with (goaltending coach) Mike Bales. They’ve done a lot of extra work, and we feel Carter is ready to be "I’ve been in this situation before," Hutton, who has started just three the guy to step in here and carry the ball." games since Dec. 1, said when asked about Ullmark's injury following practice Wednesday. "I feel bad for him because he was playing great. Krueger does not concern himself with how Ullmark's injury might affect He’s obviously been rock solid all year, and he’s having a career year for the organization's plan for Rochester or Cincinnati. The Amerks and sure. It’s a tough injury. The way we play, it’s tough, whatever happened. Cyclones are first and second in their respective divisions. However, He’ll come back. Right now I have to go in there and just play hockey, General Manager Jason Botterill's long-term goaltending plan might and it will be fun." affect the Sabres.

The Sabres (22-21-7) entered Wednesday 10 points out of a playoff spot After all, they must decide how long they're willing to have Johansson sit after the painful loss to the Senators, who had won only one of their in Buffalo. If Hutton loses Thursday, Johansson could be in line to make previous 11 games and held a 5-15-4 record away from Ottawa. his NHL debut Saturday against Columbus. The Sabres need to find out what they have in Johansson, a pending restricted free agent, because The score might have been more uneven had it not been for Ullmark, they have Luukkonen in the prospect pipeline and Hutton's contract who stopped 30 of 33 shots prior to falling backward while preparing to expires after next season. glide from the left to right post. Ullmark was unable to put weight on his right leg, and he was helped to the bench by Brandon Montour and Jeff This is the latest chapter in what Hutton described as a "roller coaster," Skinner. and he's been in the NHL long enough to know that he could be back on the bench. Entering Wednesday, Ullmarks' .915 save percentage in 23 games dating back to Nov. 24 ranked third in the "If I don’t play well, JJ is going to play," Hutton said. "There’s no security behind Tampa Bay's Andrei Vasilevskiy and Pittsburgh's Tristan Jarry, in what we do. This is the NHL." both of whom represented their respective divisions at the All-Star Game Ristolainen sits in St. Louis. Ullmark also led all NHL goalies in ice time (1,361:57) during that span. Defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen was absent from practice Wednesday for "maintenance," according to Ralph Krueger. Ristolainen, 25, played The pending restricted free agent has won five of his last eight starts to 20:15 during the loss to Ottawa and is averaging 22:34 per game this keep the Sabres afloat in what has become a crowded chase for a wild- season, his lowest total ice time since 2014-15. card playoff spot. Though Krueger acknowledged Ullmark has been critical to Buffalo's success, the coach's philosophy is to not dwell on Drury GM for Team USA players who aren't available. Former Sabres forward Chris Drury will serve as general manager for the "We have Jonas here who’s earned this opportunity to join us," Krueger 2020 U.S. Men's National Team at the IIHF World Championship, which said. "He’s had a terrific season so far in Rochester, an all-star there, will be held in March in Switzerland. which everybody knows. Now we have to work with Hutts and Johansson and do the best we can with this group going forward." Drury, who is amid his third season as an assistant general manager with the New York Rangers, also led the U.S. National Team at the world Johansson, a third-round draft choice in 2014, is 13-3-3 with a .925 save championships last year. Drury scored 85 goals in 234 regular-season percentage in 20 games with Rochester. He had played only 19 games over his three years in Buffalo from 2003-07. games before this season, spending the bulk of the previous two years with Cincinnati of the ECHL. Johansson suffered a season-ending injury last February after accumulating a .908 Buffalo News LOADED: 01.30.2020 save percentage in 27 games with the Cyclones. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is replacing Johansson in Rochester.

"I’m just trying to take it all in now, trying to enjoy every moment," Johansson said. "Just work hard and try to get even better."

The Sabres' playoff hopes could rest on Hutton's shoulders. He started a career-high 50 games with Buffalo last season and maintained the job with an excellent training camp under Krueger's staff.

Hutton had a .943 save percentage in winning each of his first six starts, including back-to-back shutout wins over Dallas and Los Angeles, to start the season. However, he has since gone 0-7-4 with a .867 save 1173483 Buffalo Sabres

Sabres keep changing defense pairings, and not with great impact

By Travis Yost

Published Wed, Jan 29, 2020|Updated Wed, Jan 29, 2020

When it comes to stability on the blue line – well, it is a work in progress in Buffalo.

We expected significant turnover pertaining to the defensive corps for the Sabres. The front office recognized the blue line as an obvious weak point last season and made a concerted effort to ensure that there would be plenty of depth on the back end for new coach Ralph Krueger. Absent second-year player (and otherwise known commodity) Rasmus Dahlin, the Sabres figured to tinker with combinations for a period of time until they fell into something that worked.

And boy has Krueger tinkered.

In Tuesday night’s game against Ottawa, Krueger again tried to work in seven defensemen. Lawrence Pilut was pushed back into the lineup playing alongside Rasmus Ristolainen, and Dahlin played with Brandon Montour as the other top-four pair. That left three depth defenders – Jake McCabe, Henrik Jokiharju and Colin Miller – to rotate in and out of the lineup, mostly in depth minutes against weak competition. (It goes without saying that dressing seven defensemen for a game is rare, though the Sabres have done it often this season.)

Dahlin and Montour have played together for more than 200 minutes and have started to settle in as a preferred pairing of sorts for Krueger. The rest of the pairings tried Tuesday, not so much. It’s a common theme for Krueger and the Sabres, in which the team appears to perpetually rotate through pairings, either unhappy with the quality of play or unwilling to maintain a degree of patience with a grouping still trying to figure it out.

Heading into Tuesday night’s game, Buffalo had tried 28 pairings. I will use “tried” as having played at least 10 minutes of even strength hockey together, which is at least a couple of games. And if we put more definition around that and only looked at regular pairings (say, having played at least 50 minutes of even strength hockey together), Buffalo has 16 pairings and counting.

If those numbers seem high, it is because they are. The league average is about 22 and 11, respectively – and only the Detroit Red Wings have tried more with their makeshift blue line than Buffalo this season.

In one sense, you can understand why a first-year bench boss like Krueger – managing a roster that’s experiencing significant turnover while carrying real pressure to contend for a playoff spot – would continue mixing and matching. But that’s a gift and a curse. How can a coach realistically get an understanding for what pairings work and what pairings don’t in such limited viewings?

What makes matters even more remarkable is that just one pairing – one out of 28, mind you – has posted favorable 5-on-5 results in their respective minutes. The Henri Jokiharju and Marco Scandella pairing, the team’s second most common grouping this season, posted the following splits before Scandella was traded to Montreal:

Goal%: 61%

Corsi%: 54% xGoal%: 55%

At a minimum, it is something worth thinking about when postmorteming this Sabres season – a Sabres season that increasingly appears lost, unless your rooting interest has once again returned to hoping for losses and escalating their chances in the draft lottery. Consistency is something that front offices, coaches and players talk about all of the time. And when it comes to the blue line, Buffalo has had anything but that.

Buffalo News LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173484 Buffalo Sabres With 32 games to go and the hope of playoffs looking dim for the Sabres, Johansson has the opportunity to a job. He can look to his battery mate in Rochester as a reason for inspiration.

Jonas Johansson’s big opportunity with the Sabres arrives. Will he grab In February 2015, Hammond was called upon by the Senators when it? injuries felled goalies Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner. He proceeded to go on a run of epic proportions, going 20-1-2 with a .941 save percentage and helping Ottawa to the postseason. That led to a rain of By Joe Yerdon hamburgers being thrown to the ice in Kanata every time Hammond won.

Jan 29, 2020 “I’ve never seen a guy drink so much Pedialyte in a month, and he gave us (his) all every single night,” former Senators and current Sabres

forward Curtis Lazar said. “He had a big workload, but you know, we As prospects go, goalie Jonas Johansson has been overlooked. You rallied around it and the whole hamburger thing. It was a cool storyline for might even say he’s been forgotten about as the guy bridging the a team, but it was kind of a similar situation for us here. … Maybe JJ is prospect gap from Linus Ullmark to Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. But in that the guy that can do that here for us.” quiet space in between, he’s been brought up and now will have the On Feb. 17, 2015 — the day before Hammond’s first start — the opportunity to show the Sabres he can be the man. Senators were sixth in the Atlantic Division, with 54 points in 55 games. Since he was a third-round pick by Buffalo in the 2014 draft, the 24-year- When the season ended, they were fourth in the Atlantic with 99 points old, 6-foot-5 Swede has taken the developmental route less traveled. and scored the first wild card in the East. Earning 45 points in 27 games was a remarkable feat that the Sabres will need to virtually mimic to end If Johansson’s career before this season were to be described, “solid but their playoff drought. unspectacular” would be accurate, although that sounds like damning praise. Through 50 games, Buffalo sits at 51 points and is tied for fifth in the Atlantic Division with Montreal, 10 points behind the second wild-card Johansson ranked second among international goalies by NHL Central spot. It’s not on Johansson to repeat what Hammond did five years ago, Scouting in his draft year while playing for the Brynas junior team. When but this situation for the Sabres could use a surprise hero from out of the he graduated from the Swedish junior league to the men’s leagues, he blue. So why not speak it into existence? posted matching .913 save percentages in 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 with Almtuna in Sweden’s second league, Allsvenskan. Those were solid “A lot of it’s confidence. … You feel good about your game, you’re going numbers but they put him in the middle of the pack in the league. He got to excel regardless where it is, and this is no different, goalie or forward,” a handful of games with Brynas’ SHL team, but becoming a better Lazar said. “If anything, sure, guys can shoot harder, maybe pick your professional goalie is a process that can take time. After his three spots a little more defensively — things are a little more sorted out up seasons there, it was time to head across the ocean. here. We also clear shots and stuff, but it’s well deserved for him, and we’re happy to have him.” When he arrived in North America, his road took him to Cincinnati in the ECHL and then Rochester. In 2017-2018, he was adjusting to the speed of hockey on this side of the Atlantic, and that took time. He went 14-11-1 The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 with a .909 save percentage with the Cyclones in 27 games but struggled with the Americans, going 4-3-0 in seven games with a .861 save percentage. In ‘18-‘19, things got better as he went 18-5-3 with a .908 in Cincinnati and was 4-1-0 in five games in Rochester with a .926.

“Learning the pace, it’s quicker in a smaller rink,” Johansson said about coming to North America. “It’s (more fun), too — I really enjoy that. Then with more games to play, you’ve got to find habits and having good routines and just to play more consistent.”

This season, Johansson has been a surprise of sorts. Although that year- by-year progression could have indicated an even better year was on the way, before the season started, he seemed to be keeping the seat warm for Luukkonen while he acclimated himself to pro hockey in North America with Cincinnati. Andrew Hammond was presumably signed to steer the ship in Rochester and be the Sabres’ No. 3 goalie. Instead, Johansson posted a .925 save percentage and a 13-3-3 record during the first half and earned a spot in the AHL All-Star Game. Instead, it’s Hammond who has helped Johansson to improve his game.

“I think I just found really good habits from the start,” Johansson said. “Me and Hammond, we’ve been working really close helping each other out doing goalie drills with each other. I think I just found good habits in practices, and on game days and it’s been working fine.”

The change in Johansson’s play from year to year was incremental but still apparent.

“What I saw from last year, you had a lot of flashes of the same (thing) that he’s got this year,” defenseman Lawrence Pilut said. “I think he just built on that confidence. You see him glowing with confidence in him, and I think that’s such a positive thing to see.”

After Ullmark’s lower-body injury against Ottawa on Tuesday, Johansson is in Buffalo and ready to play whether it’s as Carter Hutton’s backup or the next in line to start. No matter what, Johansson’s play earned him the right to be here.

“The American League is a heck of a league, and sometimes it’s almost harder to play goal down there,” Hutton said. “So far, just seeing him today, he looks great out there. He works hard, he’s a big kid, he moves well, and I think he’s got a great attitude. I think you’re going to see a lot from him. He looks like he’s ready to make the jump.” 1173485 The Flames and Oilers traded goals as Andrew Mangiapane netted a pair and Alex Chiasson added a powerplay marker and the visitors were ahead 3-2 heading into the final frame.

Flames top Oilers in shootout battle But the Oilers weren’t finished.

Matt Benning beat Noah Hanifin along the boards and made a beeline for Kristen Anderson, Postmedia David Rittich’s net at the halfway mark of the third period and tied it 3-3.

January 29, 2020 11:56 PM MST “We went into the third 3-2 and I should have saved (the Benning goal),” said Rittich. “I kind of gave them one point here.”

OK, but there WAS also that important toe save he made on Connor EDMONTON — For the amount of hype, the amount of build-up, and the McDavid in the first period, one of 29 stops the Flames’ NHL All-Star amount of back-and-forth that led into Wednesday’s game, it would have netminder produced during regulation. He also turned aside Draisaitl been impossible for the third instalment of the Battle of Alberta to live up again early into overtime, and stopped Nugent-Hopkins and poke- to the sky-high expectations. checked Draisaitl to capture the shootout. (McDavid hit a post in the shootout, too, by the way). “To be honest with you, I can’t remember all the stuff that’s been said,” Calgary Flames head coach Geoff Ward had chuckled earlier in the day. “Those three guys that went in the shootout are three really good players,” Rittich said. “Two of them are top in the league. It’s really good It might not have looked like it did in the 90’s. It wasn’t filled with bruises they didn’t score and we took two points here.” and elbows and bloodshed. Flames Sean Monahan buries the puck behind Oilers goaltender Mike But in a 4-3 shootout win over the Oilers, their third straight win over their Smith during a shoot-out on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020, at . provincial rivals this season, it was as exciting as it gets in the modern- Perry Nelson/USA TODAY Sports day National Hockey League. End to end action. Big plays. Fights. Goals. Saves. Overtime. On the other end, Smith stopped Derek Ryan on a breakaway in the third when Ryan had jumped on a Draisaitl pizza delivery up the middle of the All of which was capped off by a Sean Monahan shootout winner. ice. Smith also denied TJ Brodie in the extra frame and Tkachuk in the “There was a lot of stuff going on out there,” Ward said. “A real gutsy shootout. effort by our guys after playing a good game (Tuesday) against St. Louis. The game didn’t alter the standings much as the Flames (27-19-6) and A real good game by us … to come with the effort we did (Wednesday) Oilers (26-18-6) remained in second and third, respectively, in the Pacific on a back-to-back after a break was good.” Division standings. With the Pacific Divisions standings being as close as they are — as And they won’t have to wait very long for the rematch — it goes Saturday early as it is in the race to the post-season — both teams couldn’t afford at (8 p.m., CBC, Sportsnet, SPortsnet 360, a game laden with penalties or, worse, let the emotions get the best of Sportsnet 1, Sportsnet 960 The Fan). them and override the main thing at stake. “The rivalry is relevant again, I think that’s important,” Ward said. “The Ward warned of the potential blurred lines that occur during a heated first game (against the Oilers) was a little one-sided our way, I think, and battle. they weren’t at their best. But the last two games have been real, real “The danger is, you get tied up in the hype so much that you don’t play,” good and real entertaining for the fans. he had said after the team’s morning media availability. “The bottom line “I don’t expect anything different on Saturday.” for both teams is, right now, we’re in a playoff race. And if you look at our division lately, there are a lot of teams that are real, real, close.

“At the end of the day, the outcome is the most important thing. You can Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 talk all you want but the message in both dressing rooms is the same, I can guarantee you.”

That was the sense from the Oilers dressing room and, also, for the recently-signed Zack Kassian.

Yet the entire arena was calling for it: Edmonton’s tough guy to fight Matthew Tkachuk after what had happened in Calgary’s 4-3 win over the Oilers on Jan. 11 which prompted the war-of-words between the players.

But when the puck dropped, there were crickets.

The Flames, who’d lost 5-4 to the St. Louis Blues in a shootout at home, got on the board quickly with 1:01 elapsed in the first period when a shot on net went off Adam Larsson and past Mike Smith. The goal was credited to Elias Lindholm.

Oilers forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins fights Flames forward Sean Monahan during the first period at Rogers Place on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020. Perry Nelson/USA TODAY Sports

Then, the unexpected happened when some back and forth jabbing between Monahan and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins led to a full blown taffy-pull which had the fans howling for more. It was Monahan’s first career fight.

Shortly after though, the expected did happen off a face-off with 3:26 left in the opening frame. Kassian and Tkachuk made eye contact and the gloves flew off their hands. Kassian, six-foot-three and 211-pounds of grit, had the advantage from the get-go but Tkachuk answered the bell.

That seemed to satisfy the locals and again when the Oilers tied it six minutes into the second frame when Leon Draisaitl won a draw against Tobias Rieder to Nugent-Hopkins. He put it towards the net and a relentless Kailer Yamamoto capitalized on it. 1173486 Calgary Flames rematch at the Saddledome. He would have been adamant that any sort of I’ll-Show-You was done without the need for supplemental discipline.

With no hearings necessary, Parros can spend Thursday in Jasper. Gilbertson: Scrap settles Tkachuk-Kassian dispute … for now Or in Banff.

Now that’s a Battle of Alberta debate for another day. Wes Gilbertson This was hardly an undercover assignment for Parros. January 30, 2020 12:07 AM MST He was hanging around at locker-room level at the morning skates.

About an hour before puck-drop, he held court for reporters. EDMONTON — Soft-handed centres Sean Monahan and Ryan Nugent- Hopkins, two of the last guys you’d expect to drop their mitts, were Let’s just say a pre-game media scrum with a league sheriff is, um, not slugging away in front of the benches. standard practice.

Maybe that’s when it occurred to Matthew Tkachuk and Zack Kassian? “I think everyone would rather have me here walking the hallways than ‘Hey, we should fight, too!’ on a phone call with me afterwards,” he reasoned.

Yeah, not quite … If Parros preferred to go undetected, he could have simply purchased a ticket and a turtle costume. The undercard, nobody saw coming. That was a popular get-up Wednesday at Rogers Place, a shot at The second scrap in Wednesday’s Battle of Alberta, well, everybody saw Tkachuk’s decision to duck and cover when Kassian wanted a pound of that coming. Or at least everybody wondered if it was coming. flesh in that last meeting.

“I wanted to do it earlier, and he said no,” Tkachuk revealed post-game. Boos rained down as soon as No. 19 hit the ice for his first shift on this “I think after the (Monahan vs. Nugent-Hopkins) fight, he wanted in on night, although they were soon silenced when Oilers defenceman Adam the action and I was like, ‘Sure, I’ll do it, absolutely.’ ” Larsson deflected a puck — a pass that was intended for the crease- So shortly after Monahan and Nugent-Hopkins had chucked knuckles, crashing villain himself — past Smith as the Flames claimed an early 1-0 with 3:25 remaining in the opening period of what turned out to be a 4-3 lead. shootout victory for the Calgary Flames over the arch-rival Edmonton Just a minute later, Tkachuk and Kassian rubbed shoulders on a faceoff Oilers, the deed was done. in the neutral zone. The crowd roared.

Tkachuk and Kassian lined up side-by-side for a faceoff in the visitors’ Maybe this was it. zone. It wasn’t, but it was coming. There was a polite nod, finally something they could agree on. “He wanted to fight right away, but I wanted to keep him guessing a little There were punches thrown, although no haymakers landed. bit,” Kassian said after Wednesday’s entertaining affair. “But I respect In a way that only hockey players can, they may have been thanking him for that, and I told him before we even dropped the gloves. each other afterward. “Now, it’s over. I wish that would have happened in the first place, then it During that flurry, it seemed that everybody got what they wanted. would have been done. I respect him for stepping up to the plate.”

Kassian, fresh off his two-game suspension for wailing on an unwilling Credit to Tkachuk, swinging with his right as his opponent countered with Tkachuk in a Jan. 11 headline-grabber and hours after inking a four-year lefts, for fighting the toughest foe of his eight bouts at the NHL level. contract extension to stay in Edmonton, wanted Calgary’s all-star winger Credit to Kassian, in his 34th career dust-up, for not trying for a chin-shot to “answer the bell.” He did. after the Flames’ alternate captain had tumbled to the ice.

To be effective as an agitator, Tkachuk likely wanted to show he isn’t Consider this case closed, this score settled. scared of anybody. He did and, thank goodness for the Flames, didn’t get hurt while doing so. The way that Kassian and Tkachuk play, however, it’s hard to imagine this feud is finished. For the Battle of Alberta, that’s a good thing. After three weeks of build-up and banter, fans — and sports scribes — in both cities wanted Wednesday’s clash to live up to its advance billing. It So in the end, maybe everybody got what they wanted. did. “A lot of people in Calgary were talking before like it was must-see TV,” And then some. Tkachuk said. “I don’t know — I guess it was a must-see hockey game for fans. It’s two teams that are close to each other city-wise. The fans Kassian and Tkachuk tangle, at last. Perry Nelson/USA TODAY Sports get into it. It’s been a rivalry for years.

This wasn’t just a fight night. It was a hell of a hockey game. “I never really knew about the Battle of Alberta, to be honest, and the day Tkachuk, who assisted on Andrew Mangiapane’s second of the evening, I got drafted, I was told ‘You don’t like them.’ So that’s kind of been had an opportunity to end the shootout but was denied by former ingrained in me. teammate Mike Smith. No matter, Flames puck-stopper David Rittich “I think that makes for maybe good TV. But we don’t care about that, we sealed the triumph with a poke-check on Leon Draisaitl. just care about winning.”

“It had nothing to do with the hits or anything, I just didn’t like getting kind of pummelled at home like I did,” Tkachuk explained of his dance with Kassian. “A lot of people didn’t want me to do it, but I wanted to. It was a Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 way for me to stick up for myself. It wasn’t anything to do with owing anybody. I was just doing it for myself.

“Every time that somebody said ‘Don’t do it,’ that made me want to do it more.”

George Parros might not have been saying ‘Don’t do it,’ but he was certainly warning, ‘Don’t do anything stupid.’

Parros, the former pugilist who now doles out punishment of another sort as head of the NHL’s disciplinary department, was perched in the press- box at Rogers Place and reportedly also plans to attend Saturday’s 1173487 Calgary Flames “It feels like it’s been a long time since we’ve been in this situation this late in the season — both teams,” Giordano said prior to Wednesday’s clash. “It’s a good thing for hockey. I think it’s a great thing for our sport. ‘It makes it awesome, to be honest’: Fight for playoff positioning stokes These are easy games to get up for. Battle of Alberta “These are the games that you really have to look forward to. They don’t come around too often.”

Wes Gilbertson There’s currently a five-team logjam in the Pacific, but what’s especially exciting for fans in all corners of the Wild Rose Province is the thought January 29, 2020 11:25 PM MST the Flames and Oilers could potentially be on a collision course for a spring showdown.

That hasn’t happened since way back in 1991, when Kassian was still in EDMONTON — You’d never think to pack any SPF-30 for a late January diapers and before Tkachuk, McDavid, Johnny Gaudreau, Leon Draisaitl, trip to Edmonton. etc., etc., were even born yet. Perhaps, this was an exception. “It doesn’t matter where teams are in the standings — when you get a “I’m going to get a sunburn from all the lights here,” grinned Calgary rivalry game, teams usually both raise their level,” Ward said prior to Flames interim head coach Geoff Ward as he stepped into a circle of Wednesday’s meeting with the Oilers. “But the fact that things are so reporters — and in front of a wall of cameras with their LEDs flicked on tight right now and both teams are in playoff positions … It ramps it up a high — at around noon Wednesday at Rogers Place in Edmonton, site of little bit more. a much-anticipated instalment of the NHL’s Battle of Alberta. “The rivalry is relevant again, and I think that’s important. But at the end This, just to be clear, was not a case of a cheeky Calgarian cracking wise of the day, we understand that the most important thing is the two about Edmonton’s slightly-worse winter weather. points.”

Then again, a bit of meteorological mockery would barely register after some of the barbs that have been traded since a Jan. 11 meeting Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 between the Flames and the arch-rival Oilers, when Matthew Tkachuk and Zack Kassian did their darnedest to reignite this rivalry.

The stars on both sides insisted prior to Wednesday’s rematch — the first half of a home-and-home set that shifts Saturday to the Saddledome — that they weren’t thinking about any sort of knuckle-chucking retribution.

“It’s more about the playoffs than anything,” stressed Oilers captain Connor McDavid. “I know that the fans and everyone want to make it something else. But in this room, we’re focused on the two points.”

Playoffs?!?

That stock answer might have seemed silly in years past.

Thing is, the focus on the post-season promises to add more spice to the Battle of Alberta.

Separated by 300 km of blacktop on the QEII Highway, this will always be a natural regional rivalry. But suddenly, and finally, these two squads are in even closer proximity in the Pacific Division standings … and not near the bottom.

Heading into Wednesday’s late date, the Flames were sitting second with 58 points.

The Oilers were just one point back, with a pair of games in hand.

“I think it makes it awesome, to be honest,” said Flames forward , who spent the past three winters with the enemy. “I think it’s great for the game when two teams that are geographically this close together are neck-and-neck in the standings, and I think it adds to the rivalry.

“I was fortunate enough to be a part of a Boston-Montreal rivalry where we were neck-and-neck in the standings so many years while I was there and even the year I was in L.A., us and Anaheim, we battled all year long for the top seed in the Pacific Division. It’s one of those things that just adds to it and I think it makes it better, because I think it’s been a long time since we’ve gotten to almost February where both teams are a point apart in the standings here in the Battle of Alberta.

“So I think it’s awesome for fans of the Oilers and the Flames, I think it’s great for the game of hockey and I think Albertans are excited that it is what it is as a rivalry right now.”

Flames captain is currently the longest-serving chap on either side of the Battle of Alberta.

In his dozen previous campaigns as a regular in Calgary, his crew has qualified for the spring dance only five times. (Giordano was injured for two of those.)

The Oilers have earned just one post-season invite over the same span.

During that stretch, their end-of-season separation in the standings has always been six-plus points, except for during the lockout-shortened slate. 1173488 Calgary Flames

Oilers' Smith gets call against Flames, downplays significance of facing former team

Kristen Anderson, Postmedia

January 29, 2020 11:23 PM MST

Mike Smith played two seasons with the Calgary Flames and produced a rockstar-type performance in the post-season, but on Wednesday, he said that starting against his old team was “just another game.”

Except it wasn’t. In so many ways.

The fact that the soon-to-be 38-year-old was set to open the most-talked about clash in the National Hockey League, against the team that cast him aside last summer in favour of a different tandem this season, in a game that meant a pile in the Pacific Division standings, it was significant.

No matter how much Smith downplayed it.

“A lot has been talked about, you guys (media) had your word for a long time now,” he had said prior to the clash. “As players, I think we’re in the thick of things here and we want to worry about what we can control and that’s how we play tonight. All the extracurricular stuff will look after itself, I’m sure.”

The extracurricular “stuff” has been well-documented although Smith was sitting on the bench for it last time, when these teams steamrolled down the train tracks and aimed directly for each other.

Mikko Koskinen was between the pipes for the 4-3 Flames win on Jan. 11 at Scotiabank Saddledome. Oilers head coach claimed that he had had that plan in mind all along, with Smith coming off a spectacular stretch on the road which saw Edmonton win three straight before arriving in Calgary. The in-house jumbotron crew recognized both he and former Flame James Neal, saluting them for their time with the Flames.

The six-foot-five, 220-pound puck stopper was part of a summertime trade in 2017 with the Arizona Coyotes that brought in Smith, at the time, as a bonafide No. 1 starting goalie and played 96 games along with five post-season contests last spring.

It was hardly a legacy he left in the city, but there is a “sticking-it-to-your- old-team” vibe to Wednesday’s showdown.

Smith has able to put together a respectable record as of late for the Oilers, a 12-9-3 posting before Wednesday’s game and a 2.96 and .901 save percentage. Like he did in Calgary, the Kingston, Ont., native had his share of struggles and ups and downs.

One particularly low point was a run of 11 games in November and December where his save percentage dipped to .853.

But fresh off the NHL all-star break and playing their first game since a 7- 3 win on Jan. 18 against the Arizona Coyotes, this game was set to be Smith’s first full assignment against the Flames.

Smith played briefly in the first Battle of Alberta on Dec. 27, a 5-1 Calgary win at Rogers Place when he relieved Koskinen late in the second period.

“It’s always fun to be part of a rivalry, that’s for sure,” Smith said. “Especially the Battle of Alberta and teams are so close together in the standings and geographically. It’s fun to be a part of. I’ve been around a long time and I’ve seen a lot of things happen throughout the course of different years and different games. It’s fun when you’re playing for something. We’re playing for keeps right now. Everyone knows how tight the schedule is and the standings are. And every point matters right now.

“That’s what we’re focused on here.”

Calgary Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173489 Calgary Flames Historical example: Scott Stevens vs. Dave Manson. Before he was battling Lindros in the Patrick Division, Stevens had an epic rivalry with Blackhawks blueliner Manson. They tangled when Stevens was in Down Goes Brown: What the NHL’s history of player rivalries tells us Washington, in a controversial fight that resulted in multiple suspensions about how Tkachuk vs. Kassian could end for biting and eye-gouging. A year later, Stevens wound up playing for the Hawks’ top rival. It wasn’t hard to see where this was headed, and during a brawl that would be remembered as The St. Patrick’s Day Massacre, it got there. By Sean McIndoe One of the most memorable fights of the ’90s didn’t exactly smooth over Jan 29, 2020 the bad blood, but it served as a climax to the rivalry. And at least nobody got bitten or gouged.

Tonight’s NHL schedule features one of the most anticipated matchups This can end: With one guy’s early retirement of the season so far, as the Oilers host the Flames. It’s an important What happens: The rivalry starts off like any other, and maybe one guy game, one that could help decide an incredibly close Pacific Division even emerges as the clear fan favorite. He takes a few lumps along the race. But of course, that’s not why everyone is focused on it. way, which is fine, because it’s just building up to the inevitable satisfying No, for that we can thank Matthew Tkachuk and Zack Kassian. This will finale where the heel gets his comeuppance. But that never happens, be their first meeting since the Jan. 11 game in Calgary that featured because one guy walks away before we get there. several controversial hits, a one-sided fight, and more than a few Why it’s good: It isn’t, at least for anybody other than the other guy who postgame soundbites. It also earned Kassian a suspension, and led the won’t have to answer the bell anymore. hockey world to wonder: What comes next? Why it’s not: You never want to see anybody’s career end early, We didn’t have to wait long to find out, because the Oilers and Flames especially if it’s the result of a cheap shot or questionable hit. Missing out play twice this week, with tonight’s game followed by a rematch in on any kind of resolution to a feud just makes it worse. Calgary on Saturday. Kassian hasn’t exactly been shy about suggesting that he’ll be looking for further payback. Tkachuk’s options are a little Historical example: There may not have been a more intense rivalry in more complicated, but it’s fair to say that all eyes will be on both players the early ’90s than Cam Neely and Ulf Samuelsson. That one dated back as we wait to see what – if anything – happens when they cross paths. to Samuelsson’s Hartford days and really ramped up once he was in Pittsburgh. Their knee-on-knee collision in the 1991 playoffs is the So that will be the next chapter in the story. But at the risk of skipping moment everyone remembers, although it was actually a different (and ahead, how will it end? This is hardly the first time that two players have cleaner) hit that caused the leg problems that forced Neely to miss most developed some bad blood, so we have plenty of examples of how this of the next two seasons, and his early retirement was due to hip might go. So today, let’s dig back into the archives and try to figure out problems that weren’t related to either play, even though most fans what the end game might look like here. blame Samuelsson anyway. Either way, injuries snuffed out not only a This can end: With a decisive moment Hall of Fame career, but a great rivalry.

What happens: After months or even years of a back-and-forth, give-and- This can end: With a verbal KO take sort of rivalry, something finally happens that tilts the scale. Maybe What happens: Something happens on the ice, followed by one of the it’s a crushing hit or some sort of altercation, or maybe one guy just goes protagonists engaging in a little bit of trash talk. That turns out to be a out there and wins the big game for his team by actually playing hockey. bad idea, as the other guy returns fire with the verbal equivalent of a But either way, everyone remembers the moment, and everyone Mortal Kombat finishing move. remembers who won. Why it’s good: You’ll be quoting the line for years. And nobody even has Why it’s good: This is the exclamation point on the story, and while it may to get hurt. Well, unless you count somebody’s pride getting murdered. not end the rivalry completely, it’s pretty definitive. It happens, we all see it, and then everyone moves on. Why it’s not: It’s always weirdly disorienting to hear an NHL player say something interesting. Why it’s not: Often, “decisive” can mean that somebody gets hurt. Historical example: Even all these years later, I can’t watch this clip Historical example: Scott Stevens vs. Eric Lindros. They were natural without thinking “No Jeremy, don’t do it!” rivals from the moment Lindros arrived in the league, two big physical alpha dogs staking out their territory as franchise players and captains of This can end: Very badly teams in the same division. They fought in Lindros’ rookie year, traded big hits, always seemed to be in each other’s faces, and competed for What happens: We have to cover this one, since it’s the elephant in the the title of the league’s most-feared physical presence. room. Every now and then, a rivalry heats up, and we all have some fun with cheering it along, just like we’re doing with Tkachuk and Kassian We all know how it ended. right now. Then things escalate, somebody goes way over the line, and something awful happens. Suspensions follow, and sometimes the law That was pretty much it for the rivalry. And in some sense, that was also gets involved. And the rest of us are left wondering why this ever seemed it for Lindros as an elite NHL star. The devastating hit looks very different fun in the first place. through today’s eyes than it did at the time. But whether you see it as a clean hit or a predatory headshot – or maybe, based on the rules of the Why it’s good: It really, really isn’t. day, both at the same time – it became the rivalry’s definitive moment. And its last. Why it’s not: In addition to the obvious impact on the players involved, these sorts of incidents tend to become black eyes for the entire sport. This can end: With a signature fight Historical example: Unfortunately, there have been more than a few. The What happens: Enough is enough. Two guys who hate each other and most famous is probably the Steve Moore/Markus Naslund rivalry that who’ve spent a chunk of their careers exchanging shots on and off the escalated into ’s sucker punch. We could also mention ice decide to settle things the old-fashioned way. They drop the gloves, Marty McSorley and Donald Brashear, or Dale Hunter and Pierre everyone else clears out, and may the best man win. Turgeon. Going back even further, you had Louis Sleigher on Jean Hamel and multiple incidents in the 1970s. Why it’s good: Even if you hate fighting, there’s a certain old-school appeal to seeing two rivals go this route. It’s almost honorable. You can call them outliers or exceptions, and they are. But that’s the point – sometimes stuff like this goes too far, and it only takes a second Why it’s not: Depending on how you view fighting, two professional or two of bad judgment for a rivalry to turn tragic. athletes settling a score with bare-knuckles fisticuffs can seem silly, if not barbaric. There’s the risk of injury. And half the time, the guy who loses This can end: With mutual respect, eventually will insist on a rematch, so nothing really gets settled at all. What happens: The rivalry lasts for years, maybe even decades. But in Historical example: Let’s end with a tip of the cap to what may be the the end, the two guys end up forging a mutual respect, and maybe even G.O.A.T. of NHL player rivalries. a friendship. Both have been out of the league for years, but the war of words has Why it’s good: In a certain sense, this is the best possible outcome. It continued. Brodeur ripped Avery for his appearance on Dancing With generally means that nothing ever got too crazy, and nobody ever The Stars, while Avery ripped Brodeur over … well, pretty much crossed any lines that couldn’t be forgiven. Fans tend to love this sort of everything. ending, since it feeds into the romantic idea of these guys being noble warriors who see this stuff as all being part of an honest day’s work. It’s the feud that won’t end, and probably never will. If Tkachuk and Kassian want to take a run at the crown, the bar has been set high. Well, Why it’s not: I’m not sure there’s really any reason not to appreciate this low. sort of ending, although it may lead you to experience a nagging sense of doubt over how much of the bad blood may have been overhyped in the first place. The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 Historical example: Given enough time, most NHL rivalries seem to end up here, or at least somewhere in the ballpark. Hockey players are just wired this way; eventually, you can sit down with a rival and have a laugh over a beer or several. Not everyone goes as far as working together on a documentary like Tie Domi and Rob Ray recently did, but apparently 13 fights will forge a bond.

This can end: With the two guys becoming teammates

What happens: This is always a little awkward. Two guys can’t stand each other and spend a good chunk of their career throwing dirty looks and the occasional haymakers. Then one day, thanks to a trade or a signing, they’re teammates. Um, no hard feelings, right?

Why it’s good: Often, this is really just a more extreme version of the Mutual Respect ending. And it’s undeniably neat to see two guys who used to hate each other, and maybe still do, suddenly standing side-by- side.

Why it’s not: It can be confusing for fans who now have to root for somebody they thought they were supposed to despise.

Historical example: There have been a few, including and Troy Crowder putting their feud for the NHL’s heavyweight title on hold, or Chris Nilan joining the Bruins in 1990. But let’s go with Darcy Tucker and Michael Peca, who had one of the nastiest player rivalries of the late ’90s and early 2000s. They clearly hated each other, and it seemed like we’d seen the Decisive Moment ending when Tucker went low and blew out Peca’s leg in the 2001 playoffs. But a few years later, Peca signed with the Maple Leafs. Could the two rivals coexist? As it turns out, yeah, they got along fine. They became friends, sat together in the dressing room, and even sent their kids to the same school. Sorry about the shredded knee ligaments, pal.

This can end: With an escalation to a full team vs. team feud

What happens: It starts with one guy on each team. But then somebody else gets involved, and that brings in one more, and pretty soon everybody’s in the mix. Depending on how crazy it gets, you might even forget which two players started the whole thing in the first place.

Historical example: There are plenty to choose from, but let’s go with the one that spawned perhaps the single greatest team rivalry ever: Claude Lemieux and . It started in the 1996 playoffs, when Lemieux’s dangerous hit from behind broke several bones in Draper’s face. In theory, that issue could have stayed between the two players. But the cheap shot was considered so over-the-line that Draper’s teammates eventually took up the cause, with Darren McCarty jumping Lemieux to touch off one of the most infamous brawls in modern history.

For what it’s worth, the McCarty/Lemieux rivalry went through several stages of its own, including the signature fight and (eventually) a grudging mutual respect.

So that’s where history tells us this whole Tkachuk/Kassian might be headed. Maybe we get there early in tonight’s game, or maybe this all drags on for years to come. But all things must end, and this feud will too.

Well, unless it doesn’t. Because there’s one last possibility we need to mention …

This can never end at all and just keep going forever

What happens: Two players hate each other. But then, after their careers are over and there’s been time for cooler heads to prevail, they realize that nope, they still hate each other a lot.

Why it’s good: You have to admire the commitment to the bit.

Why it’s not: Honestly, it’s pretty great when this happens. 1173490 Carolina Hurricanes

Carolina hosts Vegas after Williams’ 2-goal game

Staff Report

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

JANUARY 30, 2020 03:26 AM

Vegas Golden Knights (25-20-7, fourth in the Pacific Division) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (29-18-3, fifth in the )

Raleigh, North Carolina; Friday, 7 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Carolina hosts the Vegas Golden Knights after Justin Williams scored two goals in the Hurricanes' 4-1 victory over the Jets.

The Hurricanes are 17-8-1 at home. Carolina has converted on 21.3% of power-play opportunities, recording 33 power-play goals.

The Golden Knights are 11-10-4 on the road. Vegas has surrendered 34 power-play goals, killing 79.5% of opponent chances.

The matchup Friday is the first meeting this season for the two teams.

TOP PERFORMERS: Jaccob Slavin leads the Hurricanes with a plus-27 in 50 games played this season. Teuvo Teravainen has three goals and five assists over the last 10 games for Carolina.

Max Pacioretty leads the Golden Knights with 21 goals and has 47 points. Paul Stastny has totaled four goals and five assists over the last 10 games for Vegas.

LAST 10 GAMES: Golden Knights: 4-5-1, averaging 3.2 goals, 3.8 assists, 3.1 penalties and 6.5 penalty minutes while giving up 3.4 goals per game with a .882 save percentage.

Hurricanes: 5-4-1, averaging 2.2 goals, 4.1 assists, 3.4 penalties and 7.1 penalty minutes while giving up two goals per game with a .928 save percentage.

News Observer LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173491 Carolina Hurricanes

Hurricanes hosting Hockey Talks game Friday against Golden Knights

BY STAFF REPORTS

JANUARY 29, 2020 03:19 PM

RALEIGH

The Carolina Hurricanes will host the second annual Hockey Talks game, presented by Relias, on Friday as the team hosts the Vegas Golden Knights at 7:30 p.m.

The Hurricanes are hosting Hockey Talks to encourage conversations about mental health and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Hurricanes players will wear Hockey Talks decals on their helmets during the game and will wear Hockey Talks t-shirts leading up to the game.

The Hurricanes will partner with the North Carolina affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and HopeLine for Hockey Talks. Both organizations will have representatives on the concourse to share information and provide resources to fans. In addition, representatives from NAMI and HopeLine will participate in gameday experiences to highlight work in providing mental health support.

In conjunction with Hockey Talks, the Hurricanes will partner with the North Carolina Department of Justice, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the SBI, and the Raleigh Police Department for the second year in a row on Prescription Drug Take Back Night on Friday. Fans are encouraged to responsibly dispose of prescription drugs that are expired or no longer needed at PNC Arena prior to puck drop.

Drop-offs for safe disposal will be located at the South, East, West and VIP entrances of PNC Arena.

Fans are urged to show their support by pledging to start conversations about mental health and reduce stigmas about mental illness by clicking here. By pledging, fans will be entered to win four tickets to a Hurricanes game, a post-game meet and greet with Hurricanes players, and other autographed items. In addition, fans can share positive, affirming messages during the game at section 108 on the Hockey Talks Wall of Encouragement.

A special ticket offer for Hockey Talks will include a ticket to the Jan. 31 game and a Hockey Talks t-shirt. Ticket packages can be purchased at www.CanesGroups.com/HockeyTalks. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit NAMI NC and HopeLine.

News Observer LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173492 Carolina Hurricanes Do you think the Canes ride out Mrazek and Reimer the rest of the year or is a trade or Ned call-up likely? — Alex K.

This is interesting, and I touched on the situation in the aforementioned Bag of Jerks, Part 1: The Erik Haula situation, Dougie’s future and is the 18 Thoughts without really answering this question. It all depends on this goaltending set for the season? next month, right? Do the Hurricanes prove themselves as a playoff team, tread water or go on a losing streak? How does goalie coach Jason Muzzatti think Nedeljkovic is performing? By Sara Civian I think the most likely scenario based on what we’ve seen overall and Jan 29, 2020 more recently is nothing changes. Maybe either NHL goalie will run away with the No. 1 start, but based on where the team is currently at and

going off former decisions the Hurricanes have made in net, I bet it would Who is ready for the return of Hurricanes hockey? Two days, people. take a lot for a call-up.

I can tell y’all are sick of the break because of the amount of questions I I’m going to be honest with you — I don’t think a trade for Robin Lehner got for this month’s Bag of Jerks. There are so many good ones that I makes sense. This is definitely an opinion that you could come back and decided I’ll split it up into two parts and answer as many as I can. roast me for, but I don’t think he’s played significantly better than either of the current Hurricanes netminders this season. Let’s ease back into things with Round 1: Can you add any insight to the Erik Haula-wants-a-trade rumors? — Any shot we see Jake ‘Josh’ Bean get a call-up if the power play starts to Marty G. struggle down the stretch? To clarify, and I haven’t been in touch with all sides of the situation What goes into earning RBA’s trust (re: Fleury)? — Paul W. because of the break, but it’s not my understanding that Haula has actually requested a trade. That said, both sides have been Two good questions, Paul. For those of you who don’t understand the understandably frustrated at times leading up to his healthy scratch. His Josh Bean reference, it says on his Elite Prospects page that it’s his hot start was looking like a relief in terms of his injury history and a huge nickname for some reason. I hope he gets a call up so we can finally contract was on the horizon. It probably still is. But I can see how he solve that mystery alone. But as I touched on in 18 Thoughts, Bean is would feel like every second on the ice is important right now. I can also having an incredible season. He’s a prime candidate for a call-up on see why Brind’Amour, one of the most team-first people out there, either of these upcoming road trips. constructs the roster the way he does. As for question No. 2, I think we’re seeing in Rod Brind’Amour’s tenure You have to buy into the team and the message if you want to play big that he values experience and proven competency above potential minutes for him. That isn’t always easy to do. ceiling. I think that’s why the younger guys get eased in, Justin Faulk was on the first power play unit, and Fleury was averaging, like, one shift per I think the break will be an opportunity for tensions to settle, but that is game last season during the Defensive Logjam of 2k18-19. That’s why pure speculation on my part. If the sides can’t reconcile perceived I’m glad he’s forced to play Fleury more now — it might end up chicken- differences, a trade is certainly on the table. The buy-in is just too and-egg like situation, where Fleury gets better with more experience important in this Hurricanes system. and Brind’Amour gets more trusting because he’s logging more minutes. What do you think it’s going to take to get Nino going again? Is there a Which player are you most excited to watch to see what they’ll do these line combo you would try that we haven’t yet? — Luke S. last 32 games? — David Z. Everyone should just start chanting “Give me fuel, give me fire, give me It’s a toss-up between Andrei Svechnikov and Martin Necas. Nino Niederreiter” at the games and see what happens.

I am having so much fun watching Svechnikov have so much fun. I’ve First of all, regression was expected after the insane start to his seen him attempt a few more high-end things after his Michigans, like a Hurricanes career, but six goals in 50 games wasn’t exactly the plan. In between the legs breakaway that almost made it. When Brind’Amour all seriousness, I feel like they’ve tried every line combination possible talks about Svechnikov, he always says “the sky is the limit” and he’s just with him. If playing with Sebastian Aho and Teuvo Teravainen isn’t tapping into what he’s going to be. Watching him push his own limits to helping you, then maybe you’re just in a slump. unleash his full potential in real time is a treat. I’m not sure what, exactly, he needs. Maybe some time on the fourth line Necas is going to be special in is own way. He’s been touted as a passer to stop gripping the stick so hard and just relax will help him find his in the past but I think he’s developing into a game-changer on several game. fronts. I’m excited to see his whole game develop. Who’s one player you think RBA wants to see most improvement from in Given that Justin Faulk was traded with a year left on his contract and the next 32 games? — Peter W. that Dougie will only have a year left next season on his contract, have we seen the last of Dougie Hamilton play in a Canes sweater? — See above. Niederreiter’s scoring woes aren’t for lack of trying at all, and Benjamin C. he has played hard. Brind’Amour acknowledges that. I also think he constantly expects a ton out of Aho out of respect for Aho, so I think he’d I seriously, seriously doubt it. Dougie is a Carolina Hurricane. always like to see him ramp it up.

With the tragic death of Kobe and Gigi, there was plenty of If you’re asking me (you didn’t, LOL), I would like to see misinformation on Twitter from outlets that seemed to value “being first” go on a tear, here. He’s been playing well recently and he’s got the over “being accurate”. Can you share your thoughts about journalism in perfect opportunity. the Twitter-era where everyone is rushing to be the first? — B.M. A Lucas Wallmark point streak and a Joel Edmundson point streak are in Great question. I was pretty disgusted with that. I hate calling for people peril. You can only save one. Who’s getting the point to keep it going? — to be fired because about 30 angry people who don’t show their faces David Z. online tweet at my employer to fire me over petty things every day, but these people should be ashamed and fired. I do think the outlets we How dare you. This is literally Sophie’s Choice. report via now (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, etc.) are also to blame for I would go off who has the best post-game tune, but that’s ABBA (don’t this mindset, and it’s really sad. I wish we could go back to the days quote me on that, but I’m pretty sure) vs. Shania Twain. Impossible toss- before Twitter for certain things, or find a future with a better option. up. To put a positive spin on it, I thought ESPN handled it the right way — I think I’m going with Edmundson based off post-game one-liners. they took their time, reported the truth, showed humanity and emotion. I actually tweeted about that: What is the funniest Canes story from the season that you haven’t been able to work into an article yet this year? — Brian D. Colleague Richard Deitsch had a great article about the coverage of this tragedy and here’s The Athletic’s page with our Kobe coverage. I got a lot of it out here, but I think the way the players chirp each other shows how much they love each other. It’s a joy to cover such hilarious people. Recently, there was some sort of issue with the hot water running out (it was fixed, relax) and everyone keeps blaming it on Justin Williams’ new contract. I think I mentioned that in a story but it’s been a running thing. Brett Pesce is allergic to dogs but when those puppies came into the dressing room he was on the floor letting at least five of them lick his face. Someone stole Fleury’s shoes right before the break as a prank and it took a lot of questioning for him to get them back. I’m actually not sure if he even did.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173493 Chicago Blackhawks Chicago Sun Times LOADED: 01.30.2020

Blackhawks prospect Evan Barratt improving his skating, priming himself for NHL future

By Ben Pope@BenPopeCST

Jan 29, 2020, 6:55am CST

The Blackhawks are lacking in upper-tier forward prospects.

So if 2017 third-rounder Evan Barratt — long considered one of the few higher-upside forwards in the pipeline — can cement himself as a future top-six guy, the Hawks would be thrilled.

And it seems Barratt indeed is doing that.

“I‘ve just worked on my hands in tight, and catching and receiving passes, and [keeping] my feet in motion and making passes and trying to be more deceptive, and just playing with the puck on my stick more,” said Barratt, who will turn 21 in a few weeks. “It’s given me the all-around confidence in my game.”

For the second consecutive year, Penn State’s 6-foot center — although he may project as a winger — is one of the top producers in the Big Ten, with 28 points (nine goals and 19 assists) through 26 games.

This comes after a 2018-19 season when he scored 43 points in 32 NCAA games and made seven appearances in the World Junior U-20 Championships. In the end, Barratt underwent hip surgery last spring, causing him to participate off-ice only at the Blackhawks’ development camp in July but helping him come back stronger after resting and rehabbing.

Penn State coach Guy Gadowsky said Barratt’s fitness-test scores, including sprints and laps, are much-improved as a result.

“He’s always practicing around different skills, different plays, but what separates him is his ability to make very unique plays at game speed,” Gadowsky said. “A lot of players can, when no one’s around and no one’s hitting you, do different things with the puck. But he’s able to do it at game speed, and that’s what is really amazing about him.”

Barratt’s skating has always been considered the biggest concern in his portfolio. The Athletic’s Corey Pronman, even while ranking Barratt the Hawks’ sixth-best prospect before the season, wrote that his “stride is wonky and lacks any real explosiveness.”

The Pennsylvania native, coincidentally drafted with the pick the Hawks acquired for Scott Darling, has acknowledged that weakness and worked tirelessly to fix it, concentrating his workouts on his legs and core.

“I’ve been trying to get faster [with] my first couple steps when I get the puck,” he said. “I’ve been trying to play faster and make decisions faster.

“[I’m] trying to be conscious of — when I get the puck — to move first and try to keep my feet moving the whole time during a drill or during a scrimmage. Trying to make it become habit for a game.”

If his skating gets up to speed (pun intended), his other skills will make him a very exciting weapon for the Hawks.

Barratt has, after all, been a highlight machine with the Nittany Lions. His lacrosse goal from last season — before it became a viral NHL craze, too — may have been one-upped this season, when Barratt lifted up then batted in a puck among four defenders.

Barratt evaded a question about whether he’s planning to turn pro after this season — with Penn State ranked No. 8 nationally, he does have a more pressing objective right now — but said he has been in close contact with the Hawks about “making little adjustments” that he’ll “need at the next level.”

Gadowsky, however, said he believes Barratt’s trajectory will carry him to the NHL soon.

“The plays that he’s able to make at game speed . . . are just things you can’t coach, you can’t teach,” he said. “That’s what really separates him from the average player. That’s a skill that will translate at any level.”

1173495 Chicago Blackhawks Beyond his daddy duties, the foundation is Bickell’s primary focus. Initially started as a straight-forward pit bull rescue group, its scope has grown to include support for abused children and families living with MS. Catching up with Bryan Bickell on his health, his championship memories Pit bulls are banned in Ontario, so the foundation rescues dogs from kill and his post-career mission shelters and has them transported to provinces or states where they are legal. The Bickells are even funding a training program to help the rescued dogs become service dogs and support animals for children and MS patients. By Mark Lazerus And just this past November, they purchased a cottage a couple hours Jan 29, 2020 north of Toronto for families living with MS.

“We’re going to give retreats to families that are really suffering,” Bickell TORONTO — Bryan Bickell’s wrist shot was hard and heavy, his hits said. “People see me, I’m pretty normal. But there are families that are in were bone-rattling, and his power and poise in the crease was as big a wheelchairs and having a tough time, and we wanted to do a service for factor as any in the Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup in 2013. them and give them a retreat. Let them not think about life for a bit.”

But it was his emotional honesty that set him apart from most of the Bickell is only 33 years old. In his last full, healthy season, he had 14 athletes I’ve covered, at any level. He was never one to offer lame goals and 14 assists and got his name etched on the Stanley Cup a platitudes or hide his true feelings. He talked openly about how his second time. If MS hadn’t derailed his career, he could still be playing, tangential relationship to the 2010 Stanley Cup — he was essentially a still living his dream. He knows this. He worked his way back from his Black Ace for that run and didn’t get his name on the Cup — drove him in diagnosis for one last great NHL moment, playing four games for the 2013. When he didn’t immediately live up to his four-year, $16 million Carolina Hurricanes at the end of the 2016-17 season and going bar- contract in 2013-14, he never ducked reporters or tried to downplay the down with one of those nasty wristers of his in a shootout victory over the pressure he felt. And when his health took a mysterious turn for the Flyers. That was his last time on the ice as an NHL player. It shouldn’t worse during the 2015 postseason, he shared how uneasy it all made have been, but it was. him, detailed the tests he went through and spoke freely about his fears. But Bickell also knows how fortunate he is. So he can pop up at a Leafs Nearly three years removed from his NHL career, Bickell still has nothing game or at the a few times a year without regret. to hide. “You feel like you still could be out there, right?” he said. “But the game’s “I’m bored,” he said with a wry chuckle. “The first year was pretty tough, changing, it’s different. I’m looking at these guys, and I only know five or but now I’m just bored.” six of them. I’ve come to accept everything that’s happened. I’ve accepted what my career was. I was pretty fortunate to win that many We were standing in a hallway just off the concourse at Toronto’s times in such a short amount of time. You have to take your blessings , where Bickell was watching his old Blackhawks when you can, and the circumstances are what they are. It’s nice to finish teammates trounce the Maple Leafs — in a regular seat, not some fancy and let the body rest. But when you look back at those memories, it’s suite. Bickell’s not a big enough name to snap his fingers and get the VIP pretty awesome.” treatment, and he probably wouldn’t want to, anyway. His workmanlike, down-to-earth personality is part of what endeared him to so many. He Ten years removed from that 2010 Cup run — a rookie season which never attained superstardom, never transcended the game. Still, he’s got saw him score three goals in 16 regular-season games, post one assist his name on the Stanley Cup twice, has been named to a few all-decade in four playoff games, and celebrate a Stanley Cup in uniform even teams and remains a fan-favorite in Chicago. Bickell jerseys still dot the though he was a healthy scratch for Game 6 — Bickell remains a part of United Center, and I spotted three of them in Toronto that night, too. Chicago lore. He and Amanda sold their home after being traded to Carolina, but they’re back in the city from time to time for their charity More than perhaps any other former Blackhawks player, Bickell is the work. one I get asked about most. Partly because he was just so well liked, but mostly because of the terrifying diagnosis he received in November 2016 And to catch an occasional Blackhawks game, of course. that essentially ended his career — relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis. “It’s our second home,” he said. “Chicago is unbelievable. The history we In typical modest Bickell fashion, he buried the lede on that topic, too. It had, people calling it a like the Islanders and Oilers, to be a part was almost an aside, a brief tangent while discussing his more pressing of that was unbelievable. It’s pretty cool what we did.” concerns as a stay-at-home dad of two little girls, ages 5 and 3.

“I’m good, I’m healthy, everything’s good,” he said. “My health is actually getting better. My (brain) lesions are leaving somehow. I don’t know how. The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 I saw my specialist a couple months ago in New York, and he said things are heading in the right direction. My sanity’s still kind of low with the two kids running around, though. Being a stay-at-home dad, whew, I really appreciate the wives that are stay-at-home wives, I tell ya. It’s tough.”

Generally speaking, MS only gets worse over time, not better. But Bickell, for now, is a fortunate outlier. He’s been taking a drug called Tysabri once a month since his diagnosis. He said he had one relapse early on, but hasn’t had one since. He’s running around five or six days a week, taking the girls to hockey, gymnastics and dance. He travels. He’s more involved in the Bryan and Amanda Bickell Foundation than he was in his playing days. He makes occasional appearances as a Blackhawks and NHL alumnus.

He even plays beer-league hockey two or three times a week.

“I haven’t worked out in three years, either,” he said with a big smile. “That’s the best part. I hated working out. Now I’m just enjoying it and playing with my friends.”

Bickell can’t explain why his lesions appear to be clearing up, and why new ones haven’t appeared. He said it’s “still too early to tell” if his long- term prognosis has changed. But he’s, in his words, “stable,” though he’s still obviously monitoring his health closely.

“It’s been going good,” he said. “I still have my hair, too. The kids aren’t pulling it out too much. I feel good.” 1173496 Colorado Avalanche

Former Avs star Chris Drury returns as GM of USA world’s team

By MIKE CHAMBERS | [email protected] | The Denver Post

PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 5:30 pm | UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 5:31 PM

Former Avalanche star Chris Drury, the assistant general manager for the New York Rangers, will again serve as GM for the 2020 U.S. men’s national team when it plays at the World Championship this spring in Switzerland.

The Americans lost to Russia 4-3 in the quarterfinals last year in Slovakia. The men’s WC features the world’s top players not playing in the NHL’s .

“Anytime you have a chance to represent your country on the international stage – in whatever capacity – it’s truly an honor,” Drury said in a release. “We had a terrific team last year, and while we didn’t get the result we wanted, I think we’re on the cusp of getting to that ultimate goal of winning the gold medal.”

Denver Post: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173497 Columbus Blue Jackets have when you don’t have a coach complaining that he doesn’t have good enough players. He just coaches and tries to make them better on an individual level and as a team — and that’s what it should be all John Tortorella at the center of Blue Jackets’ turnaround about. We need to give him a little more credit."

Even if he doesn’t want it.

Brian Hedger The Columbus Dispatch

Jan 29, 2020 at 5:30 AM Columbus Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020

John Tortorella wasn’t thrilled with where a recent question was headed.

Has this been an enjoyable season for you as a coach?

The question was posed last week, a day before his Blue Jackets edged the Winnipeg Jets 4-3 at Nationwide Arena to go into a nine-day break on a 16-2-4 hot streak.

"You’re asking questions like it’s the end of the year," Tortorella said, slightly annoyed. "You see, what happens is you win a few games and you think we have all the answers. We don’t have all the answers."

It was a moment straight out of Coaching 101, prompted by Tortorella’s push the past few weeks to credit his team as a whole for climbing into the playoff race despite a mountain of injuries.

"This year is no different than any other," he continued, deflecting any and all attention away from himself or his assistants. "Every year brings different problems … last year had its own situations. This year, no one expected the onslaught of missing some bodies, but we don’t get too worried about it."

You could tell a coaching cliche was approaching, and a second later, there it was.

"We got 30-plus games to play," Tortorella said. "We’re going to try to take it one day at a time and go about our business that way."

They "went about their business" by taking care of business against the Jets, playing better in their sixth straight win than they had, arguably, in the previous five. At the time, the victory vaulted the Jackets back into the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, one point back of the New York Islanders for third in the Metropolitan Division.

It’s a stretch that has defied logic — as much as logic matters in a sport where players attach razor blades to their feet and chase around a rubber disc on a sheet of ice — but it’s not all luck, and the "team" wouldn’t be quite this unified were it not for its leadership.

That includes the Jackets’ leadership group in the locker room and their coaches, who’ve also played a large role — starting with the guy in charge. It’s easy to forget this now, more than six weeks after the team was 11 points out of a playoff spot on Dec. 8, but this season once teetered on the brink of disaster.

The tipping point was a 1-0 overtime loss Dec. 10 at Pittsburgh, which prompted a postgame team meeting and stinging words from Tortorella after practice the following day. He said it was the "most embarrassed" he’d ever felt in five seasons as their coach but then did something that helped spark their return to the race.

"Torts worked with us to climb out of it," captain Nick Foligno said of Tortorella, who surpassed 200 victories as the Jackets’ coach during this run. "Sometimes, when you get to that point, you just throw your hands up and go, ‘I’ve done everything I can.’ Well, he was like, ‘No, I’m going to figure out a way.’ As a player, you respect that about him, because he doesn’t give up — and he never will until he’s told otherwise."

The fact Tortorella hasn’t been told otherwise, in a season when seven other NHL coaches have been replaced, is a statement of its own. Tortorella and general manager Jarmo Kekalainen aren’t afraid to "air things out" but also maintain a healthy respect for the other’s perspective and knowledge.

It’s something they’ve each come to admire about each other, especially in a season that most figured the Blue Jackets would be noncontenders after an exodus in free agency.

"One thing that I really like about him is that he has never complained about what he has for players — not this year, not other years, not ever," Kekalainen said last week, during an exclusive interview on The Dispatch Cannon Fodder podcast. "That’s pretty good for a general manager to 1173498 Columbus Blue Jackets

Riley Nash enjoying more productive second season with Blue Jackets

Brian Hedger The Columbus Dispatch

Jan 29, 2020 at 5:30 AM

It's a question that Riley Nash still gets asked, like a lot of other Blue Jackets.

In fact, it didn't take long for the 30-year-old veteran to hear it after signing with the team on July 1, 2018 — after having played two seasons with the Boston Bruins.

“What's it like playing for Torts?”

Nash cracks a smile about it now, more than halfway through his second season playing for the Jackets and fiery coach John Tortorella.

“That's the one guy I get asked the most about in the summers,” said Nash, who learned a lot about his new coach and new city last season. “It's quite funny, but he's just an honest guy. He respects when you work hard, and when you don't, you're gonna hear about it. I mean, as a player, you appreciate it. You know what you're gonna get. If you're honest with yourself, there are no surprises.”

What the Blue Jackets are getting from Nash now is more in tune with what he gave the Bruins and previously the Carolina Hurricanes. He has become a steady presence while centering the fourth line, he's versatile enough to play with any line, and killing penalties this season has upped his ice time,

It's all sort of coming together in Year Two after a mostly frustrating Year One.

“I've felt a lot more comfortable this year,” said Nash, whose 11 points in 46 games is just one fewer than what he finished with last season, when he appeared in 78 games. “I'm just trying to play more naturally, not think as much, and just do what I've been doing pretty much my whole career.”

In other words, he's doing a bit of everything for the Jackets, who went 16-2-4 in a 22-game span before a nine-day break that started Thursday.

“I'd like to score a couple more goals, if I get the chance, but if not, then be effective on the penalty kill and make my line tough to play against,” said Nash, who has played with a number of wingers. “I just want to be responsible and create chances for other guys.”

Meanwhile, Nash has appreciated his own chance to experience life in a new NHL market and play for a team that didn't have a single familiar face in the locker room — other than, you know, the coach everybody asks about.

“We've definitely enjoyed living here,” said Nash, who got married last summer and owns a place in the city with his wife, Clare. “We've made some friends outside of hockey, too, which is cool, and we bought a place. So, it definitely feels like home now — as much as home can feel like when you're a hockey player.”

Columbus Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173499 Columbus Blue Jackets Mikael Granlund

Age: 27

Blue Jackets trade deadline primer: Possible targets and possible bait Position: C/RW

2019-20: 9-8-17 in 42 games

Aaron Portzline Contract: $5.75 million salary-cap hit, signed through this season (UFA)

Jan 29, 2020 Where he’d fit: Mostly likely as a second-line center, but he could play a third-line role. Granlund has been a bust since joining the Predators at the trade deadline last season (10 goals, 58 games), but he still has COLUMBUS, Ohio — General managers make the tough decisions at plenty in the tank. the NHL trade deadline, but ultimately it’s the team that tells its boss if he What he’d cost: This is a pure rental, so buyer beware. But if the should be a buyer or a seller. In that regard, the Blue Jackets have Predators don’t make a push, they’ll be looking to unload Granlund at spoken. any cost. Two prospects and a conditional midround pick (if the Blue When GM Jarmo Kekalainen left for a massive scouting trip in early Jackets re-sign Granlund) seems reasonable. December — a trip that would be capped at the IIHF World Junior Kasperi Kapanen Championships — his mission for the rest of the season seemed to be getting a firm grip on the next wave of talent arriving in the 2020 draft. Age: 23

But a 16-2-4 run by the Blue Jackets has changed everything, and with Position: Right wing the Blue Jackets in the thick of a playoff race as the second “half” of the season resumes on Saturday, Kekalainen will almost certainly arrive at 2019-20: 10-18-28 in 50 games the Feb. 24 deadline as a buyer. Contract: $3.2 million salary-cap hit, signed through 2021-22 (RFA)

Don’t expect Kekalainen to take a sailor-on-leave approach as he did at Where he’d fit: On either side of center, but likely in a top-six role. This is last year’s trade deadline, though. He’ll try to help the roster as he did in a very intriguing player for the Blue Jackets, who passed on Kapanen — previous seasons, but it’s highly unlikely the Blue Jackets would again be the son of Kekalainen’s good friend Sami Kapanen — to take Sonny in “go for it” mode. Milano in the 2014 draft.

Three main points to consider, as the deadline nears: What he’d cost: The Leafs don’t have to trade Kapanen, but they might • First, the 16-2-4 run has done more than just push the Blue Jackets into need to part with a forward to get help on defense, and they’d much the playoff picture. Think of the assets who have gained value in the past rather move Kapanen than, say, . The Leafs want a two months. right-shot defenseman, which means the Jackets could get him for David Savard. But I don’t think the Jackets do that. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has looked like a dominating, No. 1 goaltender. Defenseman Dean Kukan played higher in the lineup (and Chris Kreider played very well) before he was injured. Defenseman Andrew Peeke Age: 28 looked very good in his first NHL games. Position: LW Forward Kevin Stenlund looked like an NHL player in his first extended run of play, and forward Eric Robinson’s stock continues to soar. 2019-20: 17-15-32 in 48 games

In some cases, those players excelling in the NHL will only help their Contract: $4.625 million salary-cap hit through this season (UFA) trade value, as 30 other GMs and scouting staffs have now seen them Where he’d fit: First-line left winger. Kreider doesn’t play as physically as play in the league. In other cases, the Blue Jackets can evaluate what some would like, but he’s deceptively fast for his size (6-foot-3, 225 they’ve seen and determine that veteran players are now expendable. pounds). Second, the Blue Jackets might look for a veteran third-string goaltender, What he’d cost: If this were last season, the Blue Jackets would be all much as they did last season with the acquisition of Keith Kinkaid from over this. But unless Kreider would agree to a long-term deal with New Jersey. Columbus, he’s a pure rental. The Rangers need much help on defense, But the focus will be at forward. Kekalainen would love to add a top-six but would these two Metro rivals really get together on a deal? center (not likely), but he might have to settle for help on the wing. With Trevor Lewis Cam Atkinson, Oliver Bjorkstrand and Josh Anderson on the right side, the target could be a left winger. Age: 33

Third, don’t expect the Blue Jackets to part with major assets (picks, Position: LW/C/RW prospects) for big-name unrestricted free agents. Think veteran UFAs who are likely moving on from their current clubs, or players with 2019-20: 2-5-7 in 37 games. reasonable contracts signed beyond the 2019-20 season. Contract: $2 million salary-cap hit through this season (UFA) There are several players who could help in this regard. Where he’d fit: At best a fourth-line center, which the Blue Jackets don’t 10 forwards on the radar exactly need. But he can play all three forward positions, and he knows all about Stanley Cup playoff runs during his 12-year run with the Kings. Blake Coleman What he’d cost: Very little, which is why he’s appealing. It’s highly Age: 28 unlikely he returns with the Kings. He could be had for a middling prospect or a late-round draft pick, most likely. Position: LW/C/RW Jean-Gabriel Pageau 2019-20: 19-8-27 in 49 games Age: 27 Contract: $1.8 million salary-cap hit, signed through 2021 (UFA) Position: C Where he’d fit: Depending on fit, could play anywhere on top three lines, allowing captain Nick Foligno to fill a third-line role. 2019-20: 20-12-32 in 48 games

What he’d cost: The Devils would need to be compelled to move him, Contract: $3.1 million salary-cap hit through this season (UFA) because, frankly, he seems like the kind of player New Jersey would want to hang on to. But who the hell knows what’s next in New Jersey? The Blue Jackets could get him for a modest collection of prospects. Where he’d fit: Pageau is the player who best fits the Blue Jackets’ What the Blue Jackets have to offer needs. He could play behind Pierre-Luc Dubois, allowing Boone Jenner to play third-line center or move back to left wing. Josh Anderson

What he’d cost: Unless Arizona’s Taylor Hall hits the market (again), It once seemed unthinkable that the Blue Jackets would even consider Pageau will be the most sought-after center, which is going to bump his trading Anderson, the rare power forward who can keep the pace in price higher and higher as the deadline nears. The Blue Jackets have today’s game. But it’s definitely a possibility, with a difficult contract been frequent trade partners with Ottawa in recent seasons, but this one negotiation in the not-too-distant future. might be too rich in this scenario: think future picks and top prospects. If the Blue Jackets trade Anderson while he’s still a pending RFA Kyle Palmieri (meaning a trade before this year’s deadline or just after the season versus waiting until next season), they’d get a bigger return. Most NHL Age: 28 execs seem to think the Blue Jackets will hold on to him through the deadline as the Jackets hunt for a playoff spot, but it’s not out of the Position: LW/RW question that he gets traded sooner for an overwhelming offer.

2019-20: 17-15-32 in 45 games. Sonny Milano

Contract: $4.650 million salary-cap hit through 2020-21 (UFA), with a It might sound strange, given his recent run of healthy scratches, but modified no-trade clause Milano has taken a huge step forward this season in establishing himself Where he’d fit: A top-six forward on either side of center. Palmieri is an as an NHL player. He does have trade value, just not as much as one alternate captain in New Jersey, so the Blue Jackets would be getting a would hope given his first-round pedigree. character player. Milano makes curious decisions all over the ice, but his playmaking What he’d cost: He’s signed through next season, so the Devils would ability is undeniable. In the right situation, he could bring an instant need to be compelled to trade him. But if there’s a Blue Jackets prospect infusion of offense, which many teams crave. that has caught New Jersey’s eye, why not? The Blue Jackets would like Ryan Murray the fact Palmieri is not a pure rental. It’s the endless cycle, right? When Murray is healthy, the Blue Jackets Tomas Tatar don’t want to trade him. But they can’t trade him (not for commensurate Age: 29 value, anyway) because he can’t stay healthy. Murray is expected to return after the break, and the hope is that he can stay in the lineup with Position: LW/RW a series of daily exercises to keep his back limber.

2019-20: 17-27-44 in 51 games If the Blue Jackets can trade him, the return will be underwhelming, and it might come with conditions that allow the trade return to improve if Contract: $5.3 million salary-cap hit, signed through 2020-21 (UFA) Murray plays a certain percentage of games with his new teams. Where he’d fit: First- or second-line left winger, ahead of or behind Gus It’s going to take somebody willing to take a flier. Nyquist. In terms of real money, he’s $4.2 million in 2020-21, per CapFriendly.com. Defense

What he’d cost: Now we’re getting a touch pricey. The Canadiens have Teams are always looking for defensemen this time of year, and the Blue been undersized for how many years now? The Canadiens would no Jackets have as much depth as anybody at the position. But trading from doubt be interested in Josh Anderson, perhaps as part of a larger deal here might not be so simple. between the two clubs. The Blue Jackets would hang up on any trade calls for Seth Jones. Tyler Toffoli They’d have to be blown away to consider trading Zach Werenski. And it would be tough to trade either part of their rugged second pair, David Age: 27 Savard or Vladislav Gavrikov, if they feel they’re a playoff club. Position: LW/RW So what would the return be for the rest of the defense? You know about 2019-20: 12-15-27 in 49 games Ryan Murray. But what kind of return could the Blue Jackets expect for Dean Kukan or Markus Nutivaara? Those two players might be worth Contract: $4.6 million salary-cap hit, signed through this season (UFA) more within the organization than on the market.

Where he’d fit: First- or second-line left-winger. Whoever acquires him The Blue Jackets will get calls on Andrew Peeke, but they’d be reluctant would be hoping for a career resurgence. He scored 31 goals in 2015-16, to trade him. but that seems a long time ago now. Something has to give here, though. What he’d cost: As an expiring contract, Toffoli could be had now for a price that would have seemed unthinkable years ago. The Blue Jackets Draft picks could probably land him for a top prospect, but the price could increase if The 2020 first-round pick will likely be treated as gold, and it should be. several teams are in the mix. The Blue Jackets haven’t had a first-round pick in two of the past three Jason Zucker years. Liam Foudy (No. 18 overall, 2018) is the only pick they’ve had in the top 44 of the past three drafts. Age: 28 The Blue Jackets don’t have second-round picks in the next two drafts, a Position: LW/RW result of the Anthony Duclair-for-Ryan Dzingel trade with Ottawa last season. They also don’t have a third-round pick this summer. It, too, was 2019-20: 14-14-28 in 40 games shipped to Ottawa in the Ian Cole deal at the 2018 deadline. Contract: $5.5 million salary-cap hit through 2022-23 (UFA) But the Blue Jackets would easily part with late-round picks. Where he’d fit: First- or second-line left winger, and would bring a burst of Goaltenders speed to an already-quick lineup. Zucker returned earlier this month after having surgery for a fractured fibula. It seems highly unlikely that the Blue Jackets would be ready to make a move on either Joonas Korpisalo or Elvis Merzlikins at this year’s trade What he’d cost: Good luck trying to figure out the Wild. They got off to a deadline, especially because Korpisalo will be returning to the lineup horrible start, turned it around, then started to fall apart again. They’re soon following knee surgery. five points out of a wild card, so it could go either way. If they’re in the hunt, Zucker would likely stay put. If they’re out of it, he might be Merzlikins does not need to be protected in the 2021 expansion draft, so available. Unless the Blue Jackets are willing to part with their first-round the Blue Jackets can let this position play itself out and deal from a pick, it’d cost a roster player and a prospect or two. position of strength. They could get blown away by an offer and decide to make a move, but that seems more likely in the summer than over the next four weeks.

There is one name to keep in mind, however. Daniil Tarasov, currently playing in Finland, is the club’s top prospect at the position, now that Elvis has arrived. If the Blue Jackets swing a big trade, don’t be surprised if the trade partner demands Tarasov as part of the prospects package.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173500 Dallas Stars

Stars notebook: Denis Gurianov sees increase in ice time; power play continues to struggle

By Matthew DeFranks

12:13 AM on Jan 30, 2020

Denis Gurianov played 17:48 on Wednesday night, the second-highest in his career. He supplanted Joe Pavelski on the first power play unit during the last power play of the night, and was on the ice for the game-ending 6 on 5 situation.

Gurianov scored his 13th goal of the season and broke up a play by backchecking hard during a power play. He played 7:14 in the third period, behind only Tyler Seguin among Stars forwards.

“He recognized what was happening and then he used his speed to break it up,” Stars interim coach Rick Bowness said. “Again, it’s his first full year. He’ll just keep getting better.”

Gurianov’s ice time has been a hot topic since Bowness took over as coach Dec. 10. Despite ranking fourth on the team with 13 goals, Gurianov has received the 11th most ice time per game among Stars forwards at 5 on 5 under Bowness.

Power play scoreless again: The Stars power play went 0 for 3 Wednesday night, marking the fourth straight game the unit has not scored. Dallas has not scored on any of its last 13 power plays.

On Wednesday, they had just two shots on goal. Across their drought, the Stars have just eight total shots on goal during power plays.

“The power play needs to be a lot better, as simple as that,” Bowness said. “Not creating anything, not giving us any momentum. Nothing more complicated than that.”

Alexander Radulov added: “I think we just got to come back with that routine with all five guys working harder than the PK guys and we’ll be in good shape. Just need to watch some videos and regroup and go from there. Simplify the game and the power play and try to put the puck at the net and battle in that area. That’s the bottom line.”

The Stars had two third-period power plays with a chance to pull closer, but Radek Faksa’s interference call negated one and multiple passes back to a vacant point killed momentum on the other.

Coaching in this era: During his pregame media availability, Bowness was asked whether the team had analytics when he was with Winnipeg in the 1980s.

“We probably didn’t even have video back then, so we didn’t have anyone tell us what a bad job we were doing,” Bowness said. “It was all based on the end result. It wasn’t based on analytics. It was based on the score and the score only. It’s a little different now. Now, you can win a game and still be criticized because your analytics aren’t right. That’s all part of it. That’s coaching in this era.”

The Stars are 11-7-1 under Bowness.

Top six Dickinson: With Roope Hintz hurt, Jason Dickinson moved up to the second line between Gurianov and Joe Pavelski. Dickinson finished with 15:22 of ice time and two shots on goal.

Dickinson has been a reliable fourth-line center for the Stars with the occasional ability to jump into the top-six. He has six goals and eight assists this season.

“There’s offensive upside there,” Bowness said. “He’s a great skater and really good hockey sense and he had some really good looks the other night. We know there’s more offense there and that will come with more confidence and more playing time.”

Dallas Morning News LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173501 Dallas Stars

Stars abandon who they are, lament lack of focus in loss to Maple Leafs

By Matthew DeFranks

12:13 AM on Jan 30, 2020

The Stars need their details.

Dallas won’t pile on the goals. It won’t wow with offense. Instead, the Stars rely on the defensive side of their game to create offense and climb in the standings. It’s who they are, and they abandoned that during a 5-3 loss to Toronto on Wednesday night.

“That’s how we’re going to win,” Stars forward Andrew Cogliano said. “It’s hard work. It takes mental toughness to play it. When we don’t, we don’t win. We’ve got to get it through our heads if we want to make the playoffs and want to make run here, it’s going to take a lot of hard work and a lot of mental toughness to do it.”

The Stars lamented their lack of focus on the details of the game after losing to the Maple Leafs. Stars interim head coach Rick Bowness said the team wasn’t finishing checks, using sticks properly or staying with their man.

“You cheat on those things and it’s going to come back to bite you against a very good hockey club,” Bowness said.

Cogliano said the Stars swung by players instead of stopping at them and playing physically.

“That’s a type of team you’ve got to play hard, you’ve got to play physical,” Cogliano said. “With our style of team, we’ve got to try to push them out of the building and I thought tonight, we just didn’t do that for long stretches.”

Toronto capitalized on Dallas’ mistakes like the Stars did against the Lightning on Monday night. A failed cleared and a blown assignment in the first period left wide open for a goal. Zach Hyman blew past Joe Pavelski in the neutral zone to score. ’s slap shot came after a Jamie Oleksiak turnover. William Nylander was all alone to put back a rebound.

“I think they executed better today and I think we were a little bit sloppy with some plays,” defenseman Esa Lindell said. “Highly scoring team like they are, they’re going to make you pay.”

Old friends: With Jason Spezza back in Dallas for his first game since signing as a free agent with Toronto over the summer, some of his former Stars teammates reflected on their time with him. Spezza did the same.

On why he clicked well with captain Jamie Benn: “He’s just a great guy, salt of the earth, cares about his teammates, loves the game. He puts a lot of work into it and he shoulders a lot of the load and the pressure here. I think we just had a great bond right from day one and he’s become one of my best buddies in the game. It’s nice to sit down, we talk over the phone, but it’s not the same as when you get to sit down and enjoy some laughs. It’s almost one of those things where you don’t want dinner to end. You’re just getting time to catch up.”

While he was in Dallas, the right-handed Spezza was one of the best faceoff men in the NHL. Now, that honor has shifted to Tyler Seguin, who entered Wednesday at 59%, ranked fourth in the league.

“That’s actually a sense of pride for me because we worked so much on it,” Spezza said. “He’s one of the best right-handed draw guys in the league now.”

Dallas Morning News LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173502 Dallas Stars goals for Colorado. Mats Zuccarello has 13 goals and 15 assists in Minnesota. Brett Ritchie (since waived by Boston) and Tyler Pitlick (Philadelphia) have combined for six goals and 11 assists.

‘I really enjoyed it here’: Former Stars forward Jason Spezza soaks in The numbers aren’t gaudy, and they shouldn’t be given that most of the Dallas return group are depth players. But teams have paid $280,882 per goal from departed Stars, a relative discount to what the Stars have received from their free agent forwards. Joe Pavelski ($7 million cap hit) and Corey By Matthew DeFranks Perry ($1.5 million) have combined for 11 goals and 21 assists, meaning Dallas has paid $772,727 per goal from Pavelski and Perry. Their 10:55 PM on Jan 29, 2020 production is part of a team-wide effort that had the Stars ranked 28th in the NHL in scoring entering Wednesday.

Jason Spezza was looking forward to the first television timeout of “We’re not asking anyone to sacrifice offensively,” Bowness said. “That’s Wednesday night’s 5-3 Stars loss to Toronto. not part of it. Are we asking the five-man unit to play together defensively? Absolutely. When we get the puck, we want to be creative. It was when the current Maple Leafs forward on the league minimum We want to manage the puck properly. If there’s no room, there’s no would be recognized for his past as a high-scoring and then declining room. It’s got to go deep. If there’s room, make plays.” Stars forward. It was a montage of his best goals in Victory Green across a five-year span that ended this summer when he signed as a free agent The clearing of Spezza, Zuccarello, Pitlick, Ritchie and Nichushkin did, in his hometown. however, create space for Gurianov to become a regular in the Stars lineup. He scored his 13th goal of the season Wednesday night, again “It doesn’t hurt to see yourself scoring a few goals when you’re playing a speeding through the defense before flipping a puck past Frederik game,” Spezza said before the game. “I really enjoyed it here in Dallas. I Andersen. liked it. My family liked it. The ownership was great. ’s one of the people I respect probably the most in hockey just for the way he does Lineup changes: Stars forward Roope Hintz missed Wednesday’s game business and how honest he is. Just a great person. Coming back here, due to an upper-body injury sustained during his only shift of Monday’s I’m just happy to see people.” overtime win over Tampa Bay. Andrew Cogliano was in the lineup after leaving Monday’s game with a lower-body injury and missing practice During the game, five different Maple Leafs scored as Toronto held off a Tuesday. late Stars push for the win. Alexander Radulov scored twice for Dallas, and Denis Gurianov scored for the second straight game. The loss was “I’ve played injured before, and I don’t think it’s going to be my last game Dallas’ fourth in the last six games after a six-game win streak. injured,” Cogliano said. “I’m playing through it. I think that’s what you have this time of the year, you’ve got to play through when you have “Our attention to detail wasn’t even close to where it has to be,” Stars small injuries and things you can get through.” interim head coach Rick Bowness said. “Complete opposite of what we did against Tampa, another high-scoring team. And it shows you that if With Cogliano healthy enough to play, the Stars only made two lineup we don’t think about our net first and we don’t pay attention to details, changes against Toronto: Justin Dowling in for Hintz, and Andrej Sekera we’re going to give up goals we shouldn’t be giving up. We gave them replacing Stephen Johns on the back end. three goals in our minds.” It was the first time Johns was healthy scratched since he returned from Spezza was held off the scoresheet in his 8:42 of playing time and was post-traumatic headaches Jan. 18 in Minnesota. Johns has only played called for a third-period interference penalty that gave the Stars a power two games after a 22-month absence and played 13:53 against the play. Dallas’ power play was scoreless for the fourth straight game. Lightning, the lowest among all defensemen.

Spezza signed a one-year deal with Toronto for $700,000 over the Bowness said it was all part of the plan for Johns, who still took warmup summer and was a right winger on the fourth line Wednesday night. He even though the team knew in the morning Cogliano would be ready to has seven goals and 12 assists on the season, with six of his 19 points play. coming on the power play. It’s a role that Spezza fits at this stage in his “This is all part of his process,” Bowness said. “He’s not going to play career, and it’s one that former Stars coach Jim Montgomery slipped every night. We gave him a couple games, now he can take a breather. Spezza into last season in Dallas, when he posted a second straight We’ll probably get him in two of the three this weekend and we’ll just eight-goal campaign. gradually keep him going.” Overall, Spezza spent five seasons of his 17-year career in Dallas, For Dowling, it continued a yo-yo in and out of the lineup. He’s been a playing 379 games and posting 81 goals and 147 assists during that healthy scratch for 21 games this season and Wednesday was just his frame. His 33-goal season in 2015-16 helped the Stars lead the league in eighth game played since Nov. 23. scoring and amass the best record in the Western Conference. Dallas won two playoff series with Spezza on the roster. “You don’t want to be coming to the rink negative and upset at how things are going,” Dowling said. “You just want to come to the rink and “Winning playoff rounds bonds you more than anything,” Spezza said. stay positive and be ready to go. For all the guys in the room and the “We had a year when we led the Western Conference in wins and we guys who aren’t able to play, who are injured, you want to be able to give were scoring lots of goals and that was a really fun year to play. Seeing your best effort because you know that when they’re in, they’re giving Benny win the scoring race was pretty cool. We were out of a playoff run their best effort. So you don’t want to be the one that comes in and lays at the end, and it gave us something to motivate us. To see him win that an egg.” was something special, especially being a buddy. Lots of good memories and I enjoyed it here.” Dowling had two chances to score against Toronto, first on a stuff attempt in the first period and then on the power play in the second On Tuesday night, Spezza spent time with Jamie Benn, going to his period. house and going to dinner with the Stars captain. -- The Stars wore their Winter Classic uniforms for the first time since “One of the best guys I’ve played with over my career,” Benn said. “Spent beating the Predators at the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 1. The only difference some good times together and looking forward to playing him tonight.” was that there was no Winter Classic patch on the sleeve. The team will Tyler Seguin said he would often go to movies and dinners with Spezza wear the uniforms one more time this season: Feb. 21 against St. Louis, on the road, and use the 36-year-old as a sounding board for all things when it will also give away Jamie Benn bobbleheads. life and hockey.

“A little odd, it was strange talking to him yesterday,” Seguin said. Dallas Morning News LOADED: 01.30.2020 “Seems to be loving Toronto and it’s been great for his family. It’ll be exciting and hopefully I don’t have to take too many faceoffs against him tonight.”

Spezza’s relative success in Toronto has underscored a handful of former Stars performing well in other places. Valeri Nichushkin has eight 1173503 Dallas Stars total from last season. He has seven assists on the season, putting him six away from matching his career-best 13.

Brett Ritchie, Providence Bruins (AHL), RW How some former Stars are faring this season, including Valeri Nichushkin’s resurgance and more 2019-20 stats: 2 goals, 4 assists Salary: $1M

Seasons in Dallas: 2014-19 Stats in Dallas: 33 goals, 21 assists

By SportsDay Staff Departure from Dallas: In the offseason, Ritchie signed a one-year deal with Boston. When he returned to American Airlines Center with the 10:38 PM on Jan 29, 2020 Bruins, Ritchie told The Dallas Morning News that he expected he wouldn’t be back in Dallas and that he “needed a fresh start.”

On Wednesday night, former Dallas Star Jason Spezza was in American Summary: Ritchie has been used somewhat sparingly in Boston. He’s Airlines Center with his new squad, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and appeared in 27 games and has an average ice time of 10:24, a slight received a nice tribute from his former team. increase of his career-low 9:36 last season. In the short amount of playing time, he’s already matched his six points he totaled last season. He’s one of a few former Stars who have moved on and found success He recently cleared waivers and is now with the team’s AHL affiliate, the elsewhere while some others haven’t been as lucky. Providence Bruins.

Here’s a look at how some former Stars are faring in the 2019-20 season. Dallas Morning News LOADED: 01.30.2020 Mats Zuccarello, , RW

Departure from Dallas: Shortly after being traded to the Stars last season, Zuccarello broke his arm. Still, he provided some offensive firepower in the postseason, racking up four goals and seven assists in the Stars’ playoff run. He ultimately decided to sign with the Wild in free agency.

Summary: The Wild are currently on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoff race, but Zuccarello has certainly pulled his weight. Through 46 games, Zuccarello has 13 goals and 15 assists. He’s on pace to have his first season of 20 goals or more since 2015-16.

Valeri Nichushkin, Avalanche, RW

2019-20 stats: 8 goals, 9 assists Salary: $850k

Seasons in Dallas: 2013-19 Stats in Dallas: 23 goals, 51 assists

Departure from Dallas: Nichushkin’s once-promising career in Dallas ran its course. The Stars placed the former first-round pick on waivers in late June and he later signed with the Colorado Avalanche.

Summary: If the playoffs started today, the Avalanche would face the Stars in the first round. While Nichushkin hasn’t been one of the main reasons for them being in the playoff race, his career appears to be trending in the right direction with Colorado. With Colorado, Nichushkin is one goal away from tying his total over the last three seasons in Dallas. He’s one assist away from matching the 10 he had in Dallas last season.

Jason Spezza, Maple Leafs, C

2019-20 stats: 7 goals, 12 assists Salary: $700k

Seasons in Dallas: 2014-19 Stats in Dallas: 81 goals, 147 assists

Departure from Dallas: After five seasons in Dallas, Spezza signed a one-year deal with the Maple Leafs. Spezza had been a dependable veteran presence for the Stars in his first three seasons in Dallas, but his role appeared to diminish over the last two. For the first time under then- new head coach Jim Montgomery in March 2019, Spezza was a healthy scratch from the lineup. That was the culmination of a 10-game scoreless streak and being regulated to a fourth-line role.

Summary: After totaling eight goals in each of his last two seasons in Dallas, Spezza already has seven goals and 12 assists in just 38 games this season. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs are in the playoff hunt, but currently are one of the first two teams out.

Tyler Pitlick, Flyers, C

2019-20 stats: 4 goals, 7 assists Salary: $1M

Seasons in Dallas: 2017-19 Stats in Dallas: 22 goals, 17 assists

Departure from Dallas: Pitlick was traded to the Flyers in June for Ryan Hartman. Pitlick had one year remaining on his contract that carried a $1 million cap hit and was coming off a season interrupted by wrist surgery that sidelined him for two months

Summary: Pitlick’s time in Dallas was short-lived. He was primarily a defensive forward who played on Dallas’ shutdown line with Radek Faksa. With the Flyers, Pitlick is one point away from matching his point 1173504 Dallas Stars 5. Marner didn’t have a hand in Toronto’s third goal. Instead, the Stars should have gotten an unofficial secondary assist when Tyson Barrie fired home the 3-1 marker after a rough turnover below the goal line by Stars 20/20: Leafs force Stars into an exciting game, and it ends poorly Jamie Oleksiak. for Dallas Toronto’s fourth goal, an insurance tally that paid off, occurred when the Stars failed to tie up bodies in front of the net and a big rebound kicked to William Nylander for the winning goal. By Sean Shapiro The fifth goal didn’t make much of a difference as an empty-netter with Jan 29, 2020 three seconds remaining, but it was another example of Toronto executing well and the Stars missing out on important details on a faceoff

play. DALLAS — The Dallas Stars traded chances with the Toronto Maple 6. Denis Gurianov has scored in back-to-back games, and his speed has Leafs and lost 5-3 on Wednesday. continued to catch defenders off guard. 1. When the Stars have success, it’s often defined by the details. On Wednesday, Gurianov found a soft opening in the neutral zone and It’s through the minutiae that they play the most effective, boring hockey created a breakaway in limited space, which was impressive enough in in the NHL. When games are boring, the Stars are typically winning. itself, before he unleashed a wrister under the crossbar. They’re locking down the other team and nothing really happens. Gurianov’s lack of ice time has been a point of consternation, fairly, for When games are exciting and provide substantial entertainment, they some Stars fans. After Wednesday, they won’t have much to complain tend to end poorly for the Stars. about.

That’s what happened against Toronto. Dallas failed to lock things down He played 17 minutes, 48 seconds. They were the second-most minutes on its end, and even though it scored thrice, it had to play from behind he’s played this season and the most since the coaching change in and let the high-flying Maple Leafs get loose too often on breakdowns or December. Among Stars forwards, only Radulov and Tyler Seguin played turnovers. more.

2. What Andrew Cogliano said about what the Stars need to do against a Late in the game, with the Stars trailing, Gurianov was on the ice. He team like Toronto was telling. replaced Joe Pavelski on the first power-play unit in the third period. Maybe it’s a trend of his usage going forward. Maybe it’s an aberration. “We knew what type of team they were: a puck-possession team. They want to play offense,” Cogliano said. “We’ve been in harder games 7. Radulov snapped a five-game point streak and scored twice. (physically). But teams like that, when you cheat a bit and you get into Late in the second period, he scored to cut the deficit to 3-2 on a play in their style of game, that’s when you lose, and I think that’s what which Radek Faksa created a chance on the forecheck and put it on happened today. Radulov’s tape, setting up his 14th goal of the season. “That’s the type of team you have to play hard and you have to play In the third period, Radulov was in the right place for a deflection of a physical. With our style of team, we’ve got to try and push them out of the point shot by Miro Heiskanen to make it 4-3 with 13:34 remaining. building, and I thought tonight we just didn’t do that.” The problem was the Stars were always playing from behind, so while It’s not stunning when you look at the Stars over the past two seasons, Radulov broke his scoreless streak, it ended up being more of a personal but it is a massive reversal of mindset from what Dallas planned to adopt victory. before the 2018-19 season. 8. Hyman was rather noticeable. I felt he was Toronto’s second-best Remember when the Stars hired Jim Montgomery and offered platitudes player. about how they would become a puck-possession team that played relentlessly? 9. It was the Stars’ final game in January, meaning Seguin went the month without a goal. 3. For the Stars to win a back-and-forth game, they need to score on the power play. Lately, the man advantage has been downright offensive for His last goal was on Dec. 28 against the Colorado Avalanche, and he other reasons. has a second 11-game goal drought of the season. He also went nine games without a goal in October. On Wednesday, the Stars went 0-for-3 on the power play and had just one shot on goal. In the past four games, they’ve gone 0-for-12, wiping It’s cruel to say because everyone on the Stars is struggling to score, but out any positive feelings about the power play after it scored eight times Seguin’s contract extension, which kicked in before this season, appears in six consecutive games before the frigid streak began. to be one of the worst large bang-for-buck contracts in the NHL, alongside Jamie Benn’s. The Stars will point to the work ethic on the power play. Alexander Radulov said the five players aren’t outworking the four penalty killers. 10. Mattias Janmark quietly had a strong game. He still can’t finish, but when it comes to details and defensive play, Janmark has been quite That’s true, but it’s only part of the problem. They can’t get into position good the past three games. to outwork the penalty killers in the offensive zone if they never make it there, as the zone entries as of late have been abysmal. 11. Hintz was out with an upper-body injury after playing 20 seconds and getting injured on Monday against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Justin In the past, I haven’t been a proponent of putting Jason Dickinson on the Dowling took his spot in the lineup after he was scratched against Tampa power play, but maybe that’s something the Stars should experiment Bay. with. He is one of their best forwards at carrying the puck through the neutral zone with control. Cogliano was also injured Monday, but he returned Wednesday. If Cogliano wasn’t ready, the Stars were going to play with 11 forwards and 4. Mitch Marner was the best player, and his passing was sublime on a seven defensemen, and they had seven defensemen take warmups night when he had a pair of primary assists. before Stephen Johns was the healthy scratch in favor of Andrej Sekera. Marner helped Toronto take a first-period lead on a perfect pass to While the Stars said Cogliano was a game-time decision at their morning Auston Matthews, who had been left open after the Stars failed to clear skate, the decision was made well before the game, and Cogliano knew the puck out of the defensive zone. It was Matthews’ 36th goal of the that morning he was going to play. Cogliano said after the game he was season. By comparison, the Stars’ leading scorers, Radulov and Roope playing through a bit of an injury, but it wasn’t enough to hinder him. Hintz, have 15. The Stars coaches won’t admit it, but it feels like it was a bit of In the second period, Marner spun like a wide receiver avoiding a gamesmanship to keep Toronto slightly off-kilter as it prepped for the defensive back and hit Zach Hyman in stride, and Toronto had a 2-1 Stars. lead. 12. Sitting Johns was an interesting move after Rick Bowness said earlier a legend of the game, and like I said, I’m looking forward to getting out in the week the defenseman needed to keep playing to get the rust off there against him tonight.” after missing the first 47 games of the season. 15. Dickinson said it was going to be a bit weird playing against Spezza; After the game on Wednesday, Bowness slightly altered his words and not because he’s a former teammate but because he’s one his childhood said Johns sitting was part of the plan. idols.

“This is all part of his process. He’s not going to play every night,” Dickinson grew up in the Toronto area but was an Ottawa Senators fan Bowness said. “We gave him a couple of games and now he took a because of Spezza. He had a mural in his basement as a kid that breather, so we’ll probably get him into two of the three this weekend, featured Spezza and former Senators goalie Ray Emery. then we’ll just gradually keep him going. This is all part of it. We weren’t planning on playing him every night. There are three games in four nights For Dickinson, playing with Spezza was a bit of a dream come true. He coming up, so he’ll probably play in two of those.” said he never thought about what it would be like to play against his childhood hero. If I had to guess, I’d say Johns will play Saturday in New Jersey and on Tuesday against the New York Islanders while sitting on Monday against Dickinson joked after practice on Tuesday that he wasn’t sure if he’d the New York Rangers. I would imagine Taylor Fedun would also get into avoid hitting Spezza or throw the hit even harder to prove he could do it. one of those games if the Stars are serious about using all eight 16. Bowness wore a 1938 NHL All-Star ring that belonged to former defensemen on their upcoming road trip. Maple Leafs winger Gordie Drillon during the game.

13. With those roster decisions, the Stars rolled out this lineup to start: Bowness showed the ring to media members after an optional morning Jamie Benn — Tyler Seguin — Alexander Radulov skate.

Denis Gurianov — Jason Dickinson — Joe Pavelski “So, if I asked you guys, who was the last Toronto Maple Leaf to lead the league in scoring, do you know the answer?” Bowness asked. Andrew Cogliano — Radek Faksa — Blake Comeau Media members sputtered a few guesses, but fairly quickly, somebody Mattias Janmark — Justin Dowling — Corey Perry guessed Drillon.

Esa Lindell — Roman Polak “Gordie Drillon,” Bowness confirmed. Then, he stuck out his hand and pointed to the ring on his finger. Jamie Oleksiak — Miro Heiskanen “There’s his 1938 NHL All-Star ring,” Bowness said. “He was my dad’s Andrej Sekera — John Klingberg best friend. He was like an uncle to me so he left it to me.”

Toronto countered like this: Then, Bowness quipped, “Chances of me getting one aren’t very good.”

Zach Hyman — Auston Matthews — Mitch Marner Bowness said he doesn’t wear the ring often but he has it with him quite — — William Nylander a bit. The connection goes back to Saint John, New Brunswick, where Bowness’ father, Bob, played hockey. Bob Bowness also played in the Andreas Johnsson — Pierre Engvall — Kasperi Kapanen Montreal Canadiens’ system for a long time, and Drillon had a short stint there as well. Trevor Moore — Frederik Gauthier — Jason Spezza “We always spent a lot of time with Gordie as a kid,” Bowness said. — Justin Holl “They were friends.” Travis Dermott — Tyson Barrie 17. Dowling had two golden chances to score. Rasmus Sandin — Cody Ceci In the first period, he was denied on a sprawling leg save by Frederik 14. Jason Spezza returned to Dallas on Wednesday. Andersen, who was sitting but was able to get the inside of the pad inside the left post. In the second period, Dowling had Andersen down on the He spent five seasons with the Stars, and the trade that led him to Dallas power play, but his backhand went over the crossbar with a gaping net in on July 1, 2014, was one of the moves that helped set the stage for the place. Stars having the best record in the Western Conference in 2015-16. Spezza’s exit wasn’t the prettiest: He was a healthy scratch down the Those aren’t just blown opportunities. They’re blown chances for Dowling stretch last season, but the early part of his time in Dallas, when he had to stay in the conversation to play the next game if Hintz is healthy. back-to-back 60-point seasons, is really why he was acquired. 18. The Stars wore their Winter Classic jerseys for the second time and The Stars played a tribute video for Spezza during the first period, and he for the first time indoors. got a nice ovation. His goal song was played at that time. The jerseys didn’t look out of place, even if the caramel pants and gloves On Tuesday, Spezza connected with Benn, and the former teammates aren’t a regular occurrence in hockey anymore. The Stars will also wear had dinner at Nick & Sam’s, which is the go-to spot for visiting NHL and the threads Feb. 21 against the St. Louis Blues. NBA players. It doesn’t appear the Stars will wear the jerseys more often. There are “He’s just a great guy. Just salt of the earth, cares about his teammates, some elements of the jersey I could see incorporated into a future loves the game, puts a lot of work into it, shoulders a lot of the load and alternate — the logo, for example — but other pieces, like the felt the pressure here,” Spezza said of Benn. “I think we just had a great numbering and leathering, aren’t conducive to frequent use. bond right from Day 1, and he’s become one of my best buddies in the It was interesting that Ben Bishop didn’t use his Winter Classic pads. He game. It’s nice to sit down and — you know, we talk over the phone, but practiced in the Winter Classic set on Tuesday but didn’t use the brown it’s not the same as when you get to sit down and enjoy some laughs. It’s glove. Using a white glove with the brown pads wasn’t a very clean look. almost like one of those things where you don’t want dinner to end. You’re just getting time to catch up, and (we) got to spend some time in 19. Since it’s that time of year, there were scouts present from the the afternoon. You spend a lot of time together. I was here five years, so Seattle (Kraken?), Detroit Red Wings, New York Islanders, New York you grow close with guys.” Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, Philadelphia Flyers, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blues Jackets, Tampa Bay Lightning, Minnesota Wild and San Benn said one of the things that always stood out about Spezza is how Jose Sharks. well he understood the game. 20. A final power-play note: We’ve started to see more and more what I “It’s never-ending,” Benn said Wednesday morning. “He likes to learn like to call “F-that” shifts at the end of power plays that have done about the game, and I think that’s what makes him such a great player. nothing. It’s why we’ve seen players like Comeau, Cogliano, Oleksiak He adapts with the years that he plays and likes to get to know his and Polak end up with minimal power-play time. teammates, and he’s played with a lot. It says a lot about him playing, I don’t even know what year this would be for him, but he’s a great player, “F-that” shifts are ones in which the power play has gone so poorly that the coaching staff has conceded nothing will happen so it might as well get a head start on a better defensive matchup.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173505 Detroit Red Wings ► Darren Helm: With one more year left on his contract, it’s more likely there will be chatter about Helm at next season’s deadline. He’s played well this season, and could help certain contenders, but that one more year at $3.85 million might be enough of an irritant to keep teams away. Red Wings' options appear slim as NHL trade deadline gets closer ► Jimmy Howard: The veteran goaltender, also a potential unrestricted free agent, has had a dismal season (2-19-2, 4.12 goals-against average, .883 save percentage). He appeared to be coming out of the Ted Kulfan, The Detroit News slump, somewhat, leading into the break. If Howard were to show some Published 2:14 p.m. ET Jan. 29, 2020 | Updated 2:54 p.m. ET Jan. 29, consistency these next few weeks, and an injury or two pops up around 2020 the league, there’s a chance a team could show interest in Howard. But it’s unlikely.

Detroit — They’re going to attempt to be active and aggressive and acquire as many draft picks as possible. Detroit News LOADED: 01.30.2020

But whether the Red Wings are able to do that is another question.

General manager said last month “our goal is to acquire more draft choices” before the Feb. 24 NHL trade deadline, during an interview on Wings’ website with radio broadcaster Ken Kal.

The Wings have eight picks thus far in June’s entry draft — one in the first, fifth, sixth and seventh rounds, and two each in the second and third rounds. So far, the Wings are without a fourth-round selection.

Whether they can secure more depends on if teams will be interested in what the Wings have to offer in trade.

The list of Wings prospective unrestricted free agents — the easiest, and most likely of players to be traded this time of year — isn’t exciting, nor have they been healthy or productive.

Once you get into the likes of Andreas Athanasiou, Luke Glendening or Darren Helm, players either with terms left on their contract, or in Athanasiou’s case, a restricted free agent in July, trying to find the right fit for a trade also becomes trickier.

“My plan isn’t to be passive,” Yzerman told Kal in last month’s interview. “Certainly, I’m looking for ways to build for the future and trying to acquire draft picks or prospects or young players that can come into the organization sooner or later.”

Here are players who are most likely to be available by the Red Wings at the trade deadline, in alphabetical order:

► Andreas Athanasiou: A potential restricted free agent this summer, Athanasiou has five goals and 19 points in 36 games, with a minus-35 plus-minus rating. Those stats pretty much tell you how Athanasiou’s season as gone. His value might not be nearly what it could be, but if Athanasiou returns from injury in the next week or two and gets on a roll, he could be an intriguing acquisition for someone. Athanasiou also would likely fetch Yzerman the best trade package that any available Wings player could get back.

► Trevor Daley: The veteran defenseman is an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but given his injury history the last two seasons, it’s unlikely teams will be aggressively calling these next several weeks. Daley, 36, reportedly has asked Yzerman to be traded, and two teams Daley played with before — Pittsburgh, Dallas — could have mild interest. That is, if Daley can stay healthy for a period of time. He’s only played 26 games this season.

► Robby Fabbri: Fabbri sparked the Wings after he was acquired in a trade earlier this season, but his production has slipped. He’s a restricted free agent and isn’t likely to be going anywhere. But if a team were to be interested, no doubt something could be worked out.

► Luke Glendening: Glendening is a unrestricted free agent in 2021, and there’s been plenty of discussion of contenders, namely Toronto, being interested in him during prior years. But the defensive forward has been one of the better Wings this season, and taken a more active leadership role. You don’t get the impression the Wings are that interested in dealing Glendening.

► Mike Green: Another potential unrestricted free agent, Green is the veteran defenseman who teams could have the most interest in — if Green is healthy. Like Daley, that’s been a struggle. Green was injured the week leading into the All-Star break, and is likely to miss several more games, at least, coming out of the break. If Green returns and shows he’s healthy, he could be a low-risk option for a conditional mid- to late-round draft pick. Green could be an effective power play/third pair defenseman for certain contenders. 1173506 Detroit Red Wings He looked good during a 10-game stint in Detroit at the end of last season and earned a roster spot in training camp with his offensive ability and hockey sense, but a slow start showed he needs seasoning in the AHL. How Detroit Red Wings' prospects are shaping up “He’s a guy that is good on the power play, has real good hands, has the ability to make people better around him," Horcoff said. "I think the biggest thing with Taro is going to be strength. I think one thing he’s By Ansar Khan | [email protected] realizing this year is to be bigger, faster, stronger at the pro level. For him it’s going to be putting the work in at the gym, not just during the season but in the off-season, to make sure he has enough overall strength to A big of the chunk of the Red Wings' future: (from left) Michael keep up with everyone else.” Rasmussen, Evgeny Svechnikov, Filip Zadina, Moritz Seider and Joe Veleno (Pete Wallner/MLive) Albert Johansson, D, Farjestads Jr. (Sweden)

It will take some time for the Detroit Red Wings to climb out of the NHL’s GP: 27 G: 1 A: 5 PT: 6 basement and return to perennial playoff contention. The club's fourth pick last year (No. 60) hasn't put up impressive Trades and free-agent signings will help augment the process, but the numbers but has looked good while transitioning to the men's league, key is drafting and developing. The team has loaded up on extra picks Horcoff said. the past few years after going into rebuild mode and, after missing the "He's having a real good year," Horcoff said. "He’s an elite skater, has playoffs the past three seasons, has selected in the top 10 each year. good offensive ability, good brain for the game. He’s another one that just Shawn Horcoff, the Red Wings’ director of player development, provided needs to put on strength. He’s not able to do out there what he wants to an update on many of the organization’s prospects (listed in alphabetical do but I don’t think anyone really foresaw him playing in the men’s order): league. He made the team out of camp; he was so good they couldn’t send him down." Jonatan Berggren, C, Skelleftea (Sweden) Kasper Kotkansalo hopes to reach the NHL as a defensive defenseman. GP: 24 G: 2 A: 10 PT: 12 (Mike Mulholland/MLive)

After missing most of last season due to a back injury, the club's third Kasper Kotkansalo, D. Boston University (Hockey East) pick in 2018 (No. 33) can't catch a break. The skilled center will be out six months following shoulder surgery. GP: 23 G: 0 A: 5 PT: 5

"It’s unfortunate because he was really starting to play good hockey, his Big defender (6-3, 205) in his third year of college, one of three Detroit skating was getting back up to speed, had become much more draft picks at BU (along with forwards Robert Mastrosimone and Ethan comfortable there playing the pro game, production was starting to Phillips). come," Horcoff said. "So this is a big setback. He’s in good hands with “One of the older, more veteran defensemen there," Horcoff said. "He’s a the rehab people, he’s just going to have to grind away again and be defensive defenseman you can rely upon, that can shut teams down, ready to start next season.” good on PK, really good teammate and character kid.” Gustav Berglund, D, Frolunda J20 (Sweden) has had a tough adjustment in his first full pro season. GP: 23 G: 4 A: 6 PT: 10 (Brian Hayes/MLive)

Good-sized right-handed shooter (6-2, 194) selected 177th overall in Ryan Kuffner, RW, Grand Rapids (AHL) 2019 is described by Horcoff as a defensive defenseman who has come GP: 26 G: 6 A: 2 PT: 8 a long ways. A top scorer at Princeton, Kuffner will need to be more of an energy Dennis Cholowski was sent to Grand Rapids to work on his defensive player at the pro ranks. play. (Mike Mulholland/MLive) “It’s been an up and down year, he’s been out of the lineup a little bit, but Dennis Cholowski, D, Grand Rapids (AHL) we have a lot of bodies and that’s kind of how it goes for first-year pros," Grand Rapids -- GP: 19 G: 2 A: 5 PT: 7 Horcoff said. "But he’s a hard worker, always asks the right questions, really coachable. He wants to do everything he can to make himself Detroit -- GP: 30 G: 2 A: 6 PT: 8 better. It’s just a process. He needs to get a little stronger, a little bigger, a little more physical.” The club's top 2016 pick (No. 20) has the offensive tools and ability to run a power play but struggled defensively to the point where the Red Wings Filip Larsson has had a rough first season of pro hockey. (Brendan sent him to Grand Rapids mid-season for the second year in a row. Savage/MLive)

"He put a lot more time and effort into that, a lot more focus, videos, off- Filip Larsson, G, Grand Rapids (AHL) ice work with the coaches, development guys," Horcoff said. "I think he’s starting to realize the type of game he’s going to need to play to be Grand Rapids -- GP: 7 W-L-OTL: 2-5-0 GAA: 4.01 SV PCT: .843 successful in the NHL. But there’s no quick fix to that. It’s not an easy Toledo -- GP: 3 W-L-OTL: 1-2-0 GAA: 3.04 SV PCT: .886 turnaround. It’s a work in progress, but he’s taking steps.” A rough first season of pro hockey has been compounded by an injury for Albin Grewe, LW, Djurgardens (Sweden) Larsson, who was regarded as the most promising goaltending prospect GP: 19 G: 1 A: 0 PT: 1 in the organization.

Deroit's fifth pick in 2019 (No. 66) plays a gritty style and likes to get “He’s had a tough year. He hasn’t been healthy all that much," Horcoff under opponents' skin has moved up and down from Sweden's men's said. "He’s starting to get back to that now, so hopefully he gets healthy league to the junior league. and has a better second half.”

"He’s got good compete," Horcoff said. "He plays more of a North Gustav Lindstrom, D, Grand Rapids (AHL) American style, brings good energy, has some offensive ability.” GP: 44 G: 0 A: 5 PT: 5 Taro Hirose has offensive skills but needs to gain strength. (Mike He's adapted well in his first season in North America, so much so that Mulholland/MLive) general manager Steve Yzerman indicated Lindstrom will be get a look in Taro Hirose, RW, Grand Rapids (AHL) Detroit later this season.

Detroit -- GP: 23 G: 2 A: 5 PT: 7 “I wasn’t really sure what we were going to get from Gus this year, thought there was going to be some learning pains and take a little bit of Grand Rapids -- GP: 21 G: 4 A: 14 PT: 18 time for him, coming over from Europe and not really playing on small ice The Red Wings have high hopes for Michael Rasmussen as a center and before," Horcoff said. "To his credit, he adapted quickly. He’s got a good net-front presence. (Mike Mulholland/MLive) brain, he’s got good sense. It’s just going to be a matter of strength, getting his skating up to speed … the game comes at you faster here Michael Rasmussen, C, Grand Rapids (AHL) with the smaller ice. He needs to continue to develop leg strength and GP: 18 G: 4 A: 10 PT: 14 continue working on his skating. He’s got an opportunity to be a solid player for us in the National Hockey League.” He's missed much of the season due to a back injury but has played well since returning. After playing mostly wing last season with the Red Robert Mastrosimone, LW, Boston University (Hockey East) Wings, when he wasn't eligible to play in the AHL, he was moved to GP: 23 G: 5 A: 9 PT: 14 center.

He was one of the last cuts from the U.S. World Junior team during his "He got off to a real good start and then got hurt," Horcoff said. "He’s a first college season. big body (6-6, 220), playing center and doing a good job. He’s at the net- front on the power play. He’s still a young guy (20). We want to get him "He really needs a lot of work in the gym, get physically stronger (he's 5- faster, stronger. Once all that comes, he’ll be able to contribute at the 10, 170) and it’s not easy when you’re in college that first year and NHL level. He’s progressing well for us.” playing against men that are 23, 24," Horcoff said. "So there’s been a little bit of a learning curve there, but he’s got a good hockey mind, he’s Top 2019 pick Moritz Seider is having a solid first season with Grand got good compete, good skill-set. He’s a good prospect for us but it’s Rapids. (Brian Hayes/MLive) going to take a few years to put on the necessary strength and weight to Moritz Seider, D, Grand Rapids (AHL) do what he wants to do in pro hockey.” GP: 36 G: 2 A: 13 PT: 15 Jared McIsaac missed the first half of the season due to a shoulder injury. (Mike Mulholland/MLive) The big, mobile, puck-moving defenseman (6-4, 207) selected sixth overall in 2019 has had a solid rookie season with the Griffins. He'll get a Jared McIsaac, D, Moncton (QMJHL) nine-game look with the Red Wings later in the season.

GP: 9 G: 1 A: 5 PT: 6 “Mo’s been a real bright spot for us," Horcoff said. "It’s not an easy He's starting get ramped up after missing the first half of the season due league to play in, being 18 years old, even more so. He got off to a pretty to shoulder surgery and played for 's gold-medal winning World normal start but he’s getting better. At the World Juniors for Germany, he Junior Championship team. played big minutes in all situations, got a lot of confidence. He’s come back and has been a real good player. He’s a guy we view that’s going to “He’s a two-way guy, moves the puck well, got good compete, defends an all-situation guy, play big minutes (in the NHL). He’s big, he skates well, he’s physical, brings a little bit of everything to the game," Horcoff well. A lot of areas he can contribute for us.” said. "He's got a good mind for it, his work ethic and commitment to becoming better is there, so we’re happy with him as a prospect. Elmer Soderblom, LW, Frolunda J-20 (Sweden)

"He was traded to Moncton, a really good team, good chance of winning GP: 26 G: 23 A: 24 PT: 47 Quebec League. We’re hoping he plays a lot of important games, which He's a 6-7, 227-pound forward selected in the sixth round last year will be good for him after missing first half." (159th) who Horcoff said is "having a fantastic year in J-20, where he is Chase Pearson is hoping to reach the NHL as an energy player. (Mike among the league's scoring leaders. Mulholland/MLive) "He’s a big kid, good raw tools, just trying to figure out what he can do on Chase Pearson, C, Grand Rapids (AHL) the ice offensively," Horcoff said. "Been a good surprise.”

GP: 42 G: 6 A: 7 PT: 13 After missing all of 2018-19 due to an ACL injury, Evgeny Svechnikov is struggling to find his way back. (Brian Hayes/MLive) The club's fifth-round pick in 2015 is adjusting to his first full pro season. Evgeny Svechnikov, RW, Grand Rapids (AHL) “I think he’s starting to play some of his best hockey recently," Horcoff said. "He’s a big kid (6-2, 200), has good strength. He’s a solid defensive Grand Rapids -- GP: 36 G: 6 A: 9 PT: 15 player, good on the PK. For Chase, he’s working on that every-night Detroit -- GP: 4 G: 0 A: 0 PT: 0 intensity, making sure he brings energy and is hard to play against every night. That’s not an easy thing to learn, especially when you have to play After missing all of last season due to an ACL injury, the club's top pick in 75 games, but he’s done a good job.” 2015 is trying to find his way back.

Keith Petruzelli is flourishing in college. (Brian Hayes/MLive) “A little bit of a trying year; he came back off a really tough injury," Horcoff said. "It’s been kind of an up and down season. There’s times Keith Petruzelli, G, Quinnipiac (ECAC) he’s played well and times he hasn’t. It was going to be a little bit of a GP: 24 W-L-OTL: 14-8-1 GAA: 2.28 SV PCT: .911 learning curve to get back up to speed.

His third college season has been his best. He's trending in the right "He has some ability to put the puck in the net but on top of that he’s a direction. big body (6-3, 212), he can play an energy game as well. So he has the ability to contribute not just on the score sheet but do the little things and "Goalies take a long time so you have to be patient with them," Horcoff bring energy to a lineup.” said. "There’s been a lot of work with him. His maturity level wasn’t where it needed to be and his commitment level wasn’t where it needed to be Antti Tuomisto, D, Assat Jr. (Finland) the first couple years we had him, but I think he’s changed that around a GP: 39 G: 15 A: 28 PT: 43 little bit. He had a better summer and it’s nice to see him have a good year.” He's a big, right-shooting defenseman (6-4, 194) who's flourishing in the Finnish junior ranks and will play at the University of Denver next season. Ethan Phillips, C, Boston University (Hockey East) "He’s one of the best defensemen in the J-20 league, would be playing in GP: 23 G: 2 A: 8 PT: 10 the men’s league if not for his commitment to playing for Denver next At 5-9 and 154 pounds, the 97th pick in last year's draft will need to year," Horcoff said. "He’s come a long ways. He’s got a good shot, he’s a develop physically. big body that can play both sides of the puck. He’s raw, got a lot of learning and physical growth to do but has nice tools there.” "He needs to put strength on, but he’s got good skills, good hands, can shoot it," Horcoff said. :He’s just physically under-developed right now, After a slow start in the AHL, Joe Veleno is picking up the pace. (Mike struggles a bit in traffic against stronger players. But that will come with Mulholland/MLive) time when he puts the necessary work in.” Joe Veleno, C, Grand Rapids (AHL) GP: 37 G: 6 A: 8 PT: 14

He is learning to be a two-way center in his first pro season, after turning 20 two weeks ago. He helped Canada win gold at the World Junior Championship.

"He’s been real good since he came back from the World Juniors, played all situations over there, both sides of the puck," Horcoff said. "His 200- foot game has come a long ways, given that’s the type of player we need him to be. I think his whole life he was relied upon just to produce offense. To his credit, he’s realized in order to be successful in the NHL he’s going to have to be a guy that we can put on the ice against anyone. His skating has improved. Lately, he’s been creating a lot more offensive chances.”

Michigan Live LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173507 Edmonton Oilers anything to do with owing anybody. It was just doing it for myself there,” he said.

“Credit to him, not many guys would stand in against Kassian, ultimately Flames beat Oilers in fiery Battle of Alberta theatre he was running around so he had to do that,” said Oilers captain Connor McDavid.

“Felt like a playoff atmosphere, everyone’s excited. We’ve missed that Jim Matheson, Edmonton Journal spark. Great for the media, great for the and, yeah, great for us as players,” said Benning, who wasn’t born when the teams last met in the January 30, 2020 1:13 AM MST post-season, in 1991.

“It’s almost like a football schedule where every game in our division In the 2020 version of hockey’s Uncivil War, the blood-thirsty Edmonton means so much,” said former Oiler winger Milan Lucic, who didn’t get any Oilers’ fans wanted the score settled between Zack Kassian and Matthew argument from McDavid before the tilt. Tkachuk, who, with a straight-face, said; “I don’t know what having a “The two points are what we’re looking for,” said the Oilers captain, livid target on your back means.” when his Calgary counterpart Mark Giordano got his butt and leg out to And while what did happen Wednesday night with the NHL’s sheriff of try and stop him on rush up ice, bringing back memories of the Calgary Player Safety George Parros and the head of officiating Stephen Walkom captain diving and cutting down McDavid as he piled into the post tearing looking for peace on earth at Rogers Place — after Ryan Nugent- his knee ligament. Hopkins and Sean Monahan of all people threw a flurry of punches in the In the end, the Flames proved the points that mattered, with a third first period — the score that meant as much to Oiler Nation was Calgary straight win against the Oilers to move three points (60-57) in the 4 Edmonton 3 in a shootout after a fantastic OT. suffocating Pacific Division race. They won 5-1 here Dec. 27 and 4-3 in Defenceman Matt Benning got his first goal in 10 months (March 16 in Calgary three weeks ago. They’re now two points clear (60-58) in the Arizona) when he danced in to beat David Rittich with eight minutes left crowded Pacific Division to get it to overtime. “Makes it awesome for the game of hockey where you have two teams “We’re down a goal and Connor’s screaming ‘go, go, go’ and when he’s as close geographically are neck and neck in the standings. Been a long yelling that it’s probably a good idea to listen,” said Benning. time where we’ve almost gotten to February and the teams are a point apart and Albertans are glad to see where the rivalry is right now,” said Kailer Yamamoto (rebound) and Alex Chiasson (power play) scored in Lucic. the middle period. Indeed it’s alive and well with a rematch Saturday night in Calgary. But Elias Lindholm, who has 11 goals in 17 career games against the Oilers, this time the Oilers will be on a back-to-back after playing the Blues here (redirected in off Adam Larsson’s stick 61 seconds in) and Andrew Friday night. Mangiapane with his first-ever two-goal game beat Mike Smith who robbed Derek Ryan on a breakaway after a Leon Draisaitl power-play “This is where we start our playoff drive,” said Oiler coach Dave Tippett. giveaway which would have made it 4-2. Unfortunately, the Oilers fell one shot and one save by Rittich short. In the end, Rittich stopped Draisaitl for the fourth time on the night with What was this? the last save of the shootout. Monahan had his first NHL fight in his 523rd game, going at it with With the Oilers and the Flames clearly relevant at the same time this Nugent-Hopkins who’s a veteran of fists of fury next to the Calgary deep into the 82-game season, a very welcome change, the final result centre. It was RNH’s fourth scrap, first in three years. He fought Vinnie was more important than whether Kassian, who has a new four-year Hinostroza in 2017, also Dan Hamhuis in Vancouver and Rich Sutter’s $12.8 million deal, and Tkachuk dropped the mitts. They did off a draw son Lukas. shortly after Nugent-Hopkins and Monahan did their thing with the two talking before the gloves flew, Tkachuk knowing he had to answer the “Nice to see Nuge step up,” said Oscar Klefbom, who reached in to stop bell and gain some back some respect. He wouldn’t fight after drilling a Monahan shot from dribbling clearly over the goal line earlier in the Kassian twice Jan. 11 with what many veteran players called predatory first. hits but not the NHL. Monahan must have taken a few shots in the head because after the Some playful fans got into the circus atmosphere, dressing as turtles to game when asked what he thought about the rematch Saturday he said; mock Tkachuk in the pre-game warmup to get the juices flowing which “I can’t be worrying about that, we have another game before then.” Benning alluded to early in the day. This was a terrific, emotional piece of theatre from first to last drop. No they don’t.

Kassian and Tkachuk talked before they started throwing them. This ’n that: Joakim Nygard was hurt in the first period (upper-body) and didn’t return which will necessitate a farm call-up. Maybe Colby Cave if “He wanted the fight right away first shift but I wanted to keep him they want a role player or Tyler Benson if they want more offence on the guessing a little bit, the game within the game. “I told him ‘it’s going to wing … Holland wasn’t at the game. He’s running their pro scouting come, just wait for it,” said Kassian. meetings prior to the Feb. 24 trade deadline … Oiler massage therapist Stephen Lines worked his 1,000th NHL game … Referee Kyle Rehman “Obviously, he wanted to get it done and over really quick and I respect needing some attention by Oiler trainer T.D. Forss after taking an errant the guy for stepping up to the plate like that. I’ve always said he’s a good puck in his facial area in the second period. The Oilers wore camouflage player.” jerseys in warm-up to salute the Canadian armed services personnel. If there was no love lost on Jan 11, what about now? Any Valentine’s

Day cards being exchanged. Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 “Uh, no,” said Kassian, who said he told Tkachuk right before the fight ‘thanks kid, I appreciate you doing this.’

“There was all sorts of speculation before the game but I had no clue what might happen, the focus was on the two points. I said that yesterday (Tuesday),” said Kassian. “Would have like two but came out of the break with one and we move forward.”

Tkachuk was glad to get the fight out of the way.

“It had nothing to do with the hits. I just didn’t like getting pummelled at home like I did. A lot of people didn’t want me to do it but I wanted to. So it was just kind of a way for me to stick up for myself and it didn’t have 1173508 Edmonton Oilers “We don’t explain every time we make a decisions. We gave those (Tkachuk) hits the same kind of consideration as any other hits. Whether or not Zack thought it was illegal or not, I explained it very clearly to him.

JONES: Director of player safety takes in Oilers, Flames game “But sometimes these things happen and sometimes it’s warranted for us to come out to show our face and make sure we’re all on the same page.”

Terry Jones When I asked Parros if he gave any consideration to the fact that his coming out here added to the circus effect surrounding this game, he January 30, 2020 1:03 AM MST said he didn’t think so.

“Where or not my presence here adds to the circus effect, I don’t think It was an hour and 20 minutes before game time and the tall visitor, so. I’m just here to make sure everyone is paying attention.” wearing black from head to toe, was wondering around the halls in the With that, the man in black headed up to the press box to take his seat bowels of Rogers Place. and make his presence known from there. “Everyone would rather have me here, walking the hallway than having a There was no fight off the opening faceoff, although Flames centre phone call afterwards,” said George Parros when he made his way to a Mikael Backlund was tossed from the faceoff circle before the puck was scrum area set-up in front of a hastily erected set of black backdrop dropped. curtains in the Zamboni area. “I wanted to come out and make sure we were fully represented.” There was no line brawl.

The head of the department of player safety didn’t knock on the door of But with just under four minutes remaining in the first period, it happened. the coaches offices, didn’t ask to talk to the teams in the dressing rooms Times two. or ask for a private moment or two with Matthew Tkachuk or Zack Kassian or to congratulate Kassian on his four-year for an average $3.2M First, the most unexpected fight you’ll ever see. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins per year contract extension. ended up throwing them with Sean Monahan and won. Seconds later Tkachuk and Kassian were lined up together and the Flame who inspired He was just there. Dressed in black. Lurking. dozens of fans to dress in turtle outfits, gave Kassian his fight. It was short and Tkachuk took a couple shots. But after his teammate got beat A lot of people make fun of the fact that Parros, recognizable mostly for up by The Nuge, he knew had had to answer the call. his monster moustache in his nine-year NHL playing career, a shift disturber who put up 1,092 penalty minutes in scoring 18 goals and The Battle of Alberta was on again. And I’m betting Parros enjoyed both adding 18 assists in 474 games, was hired to be the league’s policeman bouts. and .

But he’s been an interesting study in his job making the following statement the day he took the job: “What uniquely positions me for the Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 job is that I played the game as physically as anybody and I never once was fined or suspended.”

Not many NHL players come out of and who’d expect that one who did would be a goon?

On the other hand, Princeton could be proud of Parros. While there, he majored in economics, wrote his senior thesis on the West Coast longshoremen’s labour dispute, and in 2010 was chosen the fourth smartest athlete in sports by The Sporting News.

But this day questions were simple and straightforward.

“We keep in touch with teams at all levels. Really this is nothing that we really wouldn’t normally do,” he said of the first such visitation in his time on the job, although as an understudy to his predecessor he did make a trip to Vancouver after one incident.

“I’m constantly in touch of general managers, sometimes players, perhaps even owners. I’ve believed it’s important to have that kind of communication since I took over the department. This kind of falls into there.”

Parros said he came here independently of Stephen Walkom, the director of officiating for the NHL, a job he interestingly previously held from 2005 to 2009 between stretches of working as an NHL referee from 1990 to 2004 and 2009 to 2013.

While Walkom wasn’t made available to talk to the media before the game, he decided to make the trip obviously not so he could join Parros in a game of golf and a little sub bathing by the pool here or Saturday in Calgary before the rematch that they’ll also both attend.

The reason they came was to make sure it didn’t escalate into more Tkachuk-Kassian incidents, line brawls or other outbreaks of 1980s Calgary-Edmonton Battle of Alberta wars.

Walkom selected Chris Lee and Kyle Rehman to referee the game and Bevan Mills and Greg Devorski to work the lines.

The incident that fueled the fire in the Edmonton-Calgary game prior to the All-Star break involved two hits by Tkachuk on Kassian that were considered predatory in the eyes of many hockey people but went unpunished while Kassian’s response in rag-dolling Tzachuk resulted in richly deserved double minor and misconduct penalties plus a two-game suspension. 1173509 Edmonton Oilers “I had plans but I sent my wife, she brought a friend and had a good time,” he said. “I took care of business.”

ON THE BENCH: There’s been lots of conjecture about when the Oilers Matt Benning thrown right into fire in Battle of Alberta might recall winger Tyler Benson, the leading scorer in Bakersfield, and Benning was impressed. “He’s really good in tight. He’s a crafty player and I saw a lot more fight in him than I thought, not having played with him,” he said. “He goes into the corners and battles, good hands there Jim Matheson, Edmonton Journal and around the net.” People always talk about Benson’s skating maybe January 30, 2020 1:15 AM MST needing work but Benning shrugged it off. “Look at Justin Williams. Most of his career he wasn’t a really fast player but he’s so, so smart.”

The Edmonton Oilers defenceman’s first NHL game in almost two months Wednesday and they drop him in against the Calgary Flames on Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 a night when possible Mattew Tkachuk-Zack Kassian fireworks brought out the NHL’s head of player safety George Parros and referee in chief Stephen Walkom to observe.

No picking spots for the third-pairing D Benning who suffered his second concussion of the season Dec. 1, went to Bakersfield over the All-Star and five-day NHL break to play three games and dipped his toes in the water again.

Benning played while Caleb Jones, who has taken his spot while he’s been out, sat. And he scored 12 minutes into the third to get it to overtime, playing 17 shifts. His scoring shift he danced in and tucked one past David Rittich.

Not every NHLer who’s been hurt would go to to the minors but Andrej Sekera did it at this time a year ago to test out his achilles and it worked well. Benning had vacation plans with his wife for the time off before the conditioning stint, but she did her thing and he did his in the AHL.

“Little different this time in the minors from the other time, where I was playing my first pro game. I had a pretty good mindset this time around I was good to go, said Benning, who partnered with William Lagesson in Bakersfield and had games where he was over 20 minutes, certainly more than he plays here usually with Kris Russell. “I thought sitting around for a week or so (over the break) would totally ruin all the hard work I had put in to get back to playing.

“The team had four games in six days and I played in three of them and not playing in almost two months my minutes were higher than normal. I’m third pairing here, averaging 14-16 minutes a night and down there they were rolling two pairings (Benning and Lagesson; and Keegan Lowe) every night and I was over 22 minutes. Got some penalty-kill and power-play time. Brought me back to your college days. Nice that if you screw up, you’re back out next shift.”

Getting his heart-rate up was obviously a watchable point in Bakersfield, too.

“They had some things they track. First game I was fairly high (heart- rate) and my minutes weren’t as high as the second and third games but each game my heart, they call it player-load, went down. Just getting used to be out there again,” he said.

The AHL isn’t the NHL, of course. But it’s a hard league with players all trying to impress.

“Difference between here and there is gap control; you have to be so tight on attacking players in the NHL, limiting them to shots from bad angles or to dump it in. I really focused on that. I knew my hands might not be there but they were pretty good,” he said.

“I noticed one thing. There’s more scrums down there. I was in three or four of them right away. I don’t know if I was in three or four scrums in the 25 NHL games I had played this year.

“It’s insane in the AHL. Everybody has good habits, stopping on pucks but maybe you find some smarter players here, you can get people out of position.”

Benning being back gives the Oilers a right-left pairing. Jones, who has played 24 games, has good versatility because he shoots left but can play right. But long-term Jones might be more comfortable on the left side in the NHL.

“You look at Matt’s games with Kris early in the season and that was a good pair,” said coach Dave Tippett. “He’s a competitive kid in all situations. He gives us a right-shot on that side.”

Benning gladly changed gears and played during the break. 1173510 Edmonton Oilers “It’s always tough games, tight scores. You want playoff hockey and we’re getting it mid-season, It doesn’t matter if it’s November or late February. It’s good for everyone and it’s fun for everyone.”

Bad blood, you gotta love it, say Edmonton Oilers Fellow Swede Joakim Nygard has only been in the NHL for four months and he already has a lot of pretty good stories to tell the folks back home. He, like Larsson, considers himself fortunate to be part of the Edmonton- Calgary showdown. Robert Tychkowski “It’s cool,” he said. “These are big games for the fans, big games for the January 30, 2020 1:16 AM MST players. It’s the type of games you want to be in. They mean a lot.”

Of course, none of this would be as relevant if the Oilers and Flames The Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames spent a good 48 hours weren’t relevant. The stakes wouldn’t be quite as high if there weren’t five chastising the media for hyping the Battle of Alberta into a national teams within three points of each other in the Pacific Division. spectacle, but deep down inside they kind of liked the attention. It’s a perfect storm that doesn’t look like it’s letting up anytime soon. As alpha-male athletes, they want to be on centre stage, they want the “To have that many teams in the same division in the mix at this point is stakes to be high and they want the passion around their games to be so pretty unique,” said goalie Mike Smith. “It just shows how strong this loud you can feel it. division and our conference is. It’s going to be a dog fight right till the That’s why everyone loves the playoffs. And that’s why a much-needed end.” escalation in the Battle of Alberta, complete with fans and media throwing as much extra fuel on the fire as their keyboards will allow, is something they fully embrace. Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 Ask them if they’d rather have the entire country on the edge of its seat wondering what’s going to happen between Edmonton and Calgary or a play a yawner in a half-empty rink in Carolina and the answer is obvious.

“All of it, just the atmosphere around game day is the fun part of it,” said Oilers head coach Dave Tippett, prior to Wednesday’s game. “The passion of not just our fan base, but Calgary’s fan base, the passion of the media, everything. It adds to the excitement of the game for players and coaches.”

It reminds him a little of his old rivalries, back when they were doing things that would have resulted in 40-game bans today.

“We had some pretty good ones in the Adams Division, but those all seemed like they were built in the playoffs,” said Tippett. “The Nordiques and us had a couple of good battles, Boston was always a big battle in Hartford. But that was the 80s, it was a different game back then.”

Ethan Bear knows all about rivalries from his days in the WHL, where things have been known to reach full boil on occasion. He says they were a big help in preparing him for what he’s become a part of now. It wasn’t the same grand scale as what’s happening here, but it still helped.

“Absolutely,” he said, adding you have no choice but to jump in with both feet. “They’re very intense games in either building. You have to learn to hate the other team right away and play for keeps.

“And we know the fans really watch these games and they like the rivalry. You feel the hype and the bragging rights, everything comes into play. You know the nerves are going to be there, so you just try play your game.”

You might not think they get nasty over in Sweden, but Adam Larsson, who is living proof that they grow some mean hombres over there, says there were definitely blood feuds back when he was laying the lumber of dudes in the Elite League.

“It was the closest city, and was actually a really heated one,” he said, adding they had to find a new enemy when their rival got demoted.

“It’s not like here, where you end up last and you’re still in the league. They went down, got relegated, so now it’s another city that’s close by that turned into the big rivalry.”

He says there was the usual trash talk, cheap shots and occasional tilt that comes with any rivalry, set against the backdrop of European hockey crowds, which are way ahead of their North American counterparts when it comes to joining the fun.

“The crowds were really good, just a different atmosphere in the stands, drums, signing, and whatever. It was wild.”

But it’s not Edmonton-Calgary, Kassian-Tkachuk.

“I don’t think you can compare it to the Battle of Alberta, this is on another level,” said Larsson, who loves these nights. 1173511 Edmonton Oilers

Game Day: Oilers head back to work with a bang

Robert Tychkowski

January 29, 2020 8:33 AM MST

FINALLY, A GAME

Between the bye week, the All-Star break and three-days of practice, the Oilers will be playing their first game in nearly 11 days when they resume their schedule Wednesday. That is a lot of down time. How quickly they get their hockey legs back will play a major role in the outcome.

ZACK’S BACK

The Oilers will have Zack Kassian back in the lineup just in time for Calgary. He is through serving his two game suspension for rag-dolling Matt Tkachuk and will add an element of toughness, skill and speed to a game that will feature plenty of it on both sides.

STARTING OVER

The Flames have a history of starting slowly when coming out of the bye week. They lost five of their first six games after it last year and lost six in a row in 2018. But a home game Tuesday against St. Louis gives them a chance to knock the rust off before rolling into Edmonton.

SMITH VS FLAMES

After watching Mikko Koskinen get the first two games against Calgary, former Flames netminder Mike Smith will finally get to draw in against his old team. He is 5-0 in his last five starts and was playing his best goal of the year before the bye week.

BENNING BACK

Matt Benning, who’s been out two months with a concussion, certainly isn’t getting a soft landing in his return. But after three games in the AHL to get himself ready, he’s being thrown into the Battle of Alberta. That’s no easy gig, but the hard-nosed defenceman wouldn’t want it any other way.

BIG MATCH UP

MATT TKACHUK VS ZACK KASSIAN

This is the match up the entire league has been talking about since the last time these two teams met, when Tkachuk took a couple of massive runs at the Oilers winger and Kassian responded with enough left hands on a cowering Tkachuk to warrant a two-game suspension. The clip of Tkachuk trying to run away while Kassian rained punches on him has been playing on a constant loop on The Sports Networks ever since. Who knows how much of that will carry over into Wednesday’s instalment of the Battle of Alberta. Sometimes these things flare up again and sometimes they fizzle out, but one thing is for certain — everyone will be watching.

Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173512 Edmonton Oilers “I thought I handled it. I got punishment and that’s that. I thought I got enough good shots in,” he said of the lefts he landed while Tkachuk was retreating into his shell.

JONES: Oilers to focus on game against Flames regardless of NHL “There aren’t going to be any line brawls. These are two important points. watchdogs Look at how many teams are tied. You need these two points. It’s going to be a hard game. It’s going to be an intense game but we have to play between the lines, I think, both games.”

Terry Jones There are those who figure ex-Oiler Milan Lucic will have taken Kassian’s number and believe it’s his role to play to fight the fight with Kassian that January 29, 2020 8:28 AM MST Tkachuk declined.

“We played together. We had some good times. Once you’re on the ice, Does George Parros really need to show up in Edmonton on Wednesday he has a job to do and I have a job to do. Looch is one of those guys who to police the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames? will do anything for his team. I’ll do anything for my team.”

And does the NHL need to double down to sending player safety and Kassian said he hasn’t spent his break watching any old Lucic fight discipline director Parros by now also deciding to send NHL officiating videos in anticipation of the old warrior fighting Tkachuk’s battles. director Stephen Walkom for a highly-anticipated but definitely “We have to win the game. If they’re going to target me, so be it. I’m a big unsanctioned cage match at Rogers Place that has managed to set itself boy. I know how to handle it. But I have to be smart. I have to make sure apart from all other NHL game this year? They are scheduled to go to our team is always in the right. We have to be selfless and that’s the way Calgary as well on Saturday. we’re all going to have to play.” Isn’t it in the best interest of the coaches involved to police their own When it comes to the anticipation of a riot breaking out, Kassian predicts teams without the visits by Parros and Walkom, especially when it comes that after the big build-up it’ll be a large letdown from that perspective. to the expectations of fans expecting Zack ‘The Attack’ Kassian and the But he admits to loving the buzz that exists around this game. Oilers to be putting on the foil and the Flames to be showing up to be looking after Matthew ‘The Turtle’ Tkachuk, after the incident at the last “It brings the fire back,” he says of returning from the break. “I know meeting? Edmonton fans are on my side and Calgary fans are on his side. He’ll probably get booed here. I’ll probably get booed there,” he said of A veteran referee crew is expected to work the game. Saturday night’s return to the scene of the crime. You’d think the arrival of Parros and Walkom telegraphed the return of “It’s about time we get a little passion and fire in the game. There’s Ogie Oglethorpe, Tim ‘Dr. Hook’ McCracken, Mad Dog Madison and nothing wrong with that. People are making it sound like it’s bad for the Clarence ‘Screaming Buffalo’ Swampton. game. Ok, Calgary did call up six-foot-six forward Buddy Robinson from the “I think it’s good for hockey.” minors. But he is the leading scorer, with 16 goals, with the this season. I think he’s right. So I suspect do George Parros and Stephen Walkom.

After Kassian rag-dolled Tkachuk for two predator-type hits and took a double minor and a misconduct and was then given a two-game suspension, Oilers coach Dave Tippett said he wished; A) that the Oilers Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 01.30.2020 “had killed the penalty” that resulted in the winning goal of the game and; B) that Kassian had “taken a number” and dealt with the Flames No. 19 at a later date.

Tippett, following practice Tuesday, said any anticipation of retributions and further suspension-worthy incidents, isn’t in the best interests of anybody.

“All this stuff that you’re talking about? There’s none of it going on in our dressing room,” said Tippett.

“With all the emotions, I think the game is going to be played hard like the first game of a playoff series, not to settle scores and stuff like that. It’s about winning. The importance of the game trumps everything. The importance of the team trumps everything. And Zack understands that. Zack knows. He doesn’t want to put our team in a bad position.”

Kassian, who spent his All-Star Break soaking up some sun in California, returned to Edmonton and attend a team autograph session at West Edmonton Mall where he signed pictures of him rag-dolling Tkachuk and ‘Turtle’ t-shirts. And when he returned from the ice to the dressing room he was surrounded by a playoff-sized media scrum.

“I thought it was cool for hockey and cool for Alberta,” he said.

But Kassian, who after the game in Calgary said; “I’d do it again,” said he didn’t mean he’d do it again Wednesday.

“I think, if you look at the standings, we have to play to win the game. It’s that simple. We play Calgary two times in the next three games. Obviously the two teams don’t like each other much and it’s the Battle of Alberta but we’re revving it up to get two points.

“We’re treating it as a playoff game. That’s our mindset.

“Obviously, it’s a little bit of a circus that’s carried on but it’ll be about the two points. I’m going to play my game. I’m going to play a hard game.”

Kassian figured he took care of the retribution already. That’s why he was suspended for two games. 1173513 Edmonton Oilers spells with Josh Archibald on the starboard side. One might also argue, as many have, that Kassian’s combination of size and speed is both rare and valuable.

Oilers extend Zack Kassian, betting the power forward can continue to The best-case scenario for Edmonton would be something similar to produce with Connor McDavid what happened in Vancouver during the years. Alex Burrows, the abrasive, energetic winger who as recently as 2006-07 had scored just three times in 81 games, won a job playing with the Canucks’ best forwards and made the most of his opportunity. Late in his age-27 By Jonathan Willis season, Vancouver signed him to a four-year extension at $2-million Jan 29, 2020 annually, representing 3.5 percent of the salary cap at that time.

Kassian’s new deal, representing 3.9 percent of the cap, is much the same sort of pact. The Oilers signed pending free agent Zack Kassian to a four-year contract extension Wednesday. The deal, first reported by TSN’s Bob Burrows maintained his production through all four years of that contract, McKenzie, carries an average annual value of $3.2-million. before slowing down in his age-32 season. He remained a valued, if lesser, contributor through the age of 35. The Athletic has confirmed the annual breakdown of the contract: It will be more difficult for Kassian to outperform his deal, if only because 2020-21: $2.5-million salary, $1-million signing bonus he’s two years older. Power forwards are not typically known for their ability to defy age. Kassian does have an edge in that he’s faster than 2021-22: $2.5-million salary, $1-million signing bonus most players of the type. 2022-23: $3.5-million salary The Oilers have kept their options open to some degree despite the four- 2023-24: $2.3-million salary year term. The signing bonuses are paid out entirely in the first two seasons of the contract. Additionally, Kassian does not have a no-trade The deal most closely resembles that of a rumoured free agent target of or no-move clause, and at least theoretically having the deal frontloaded Edmonton this past summer: Brett Connolly. Coming off a 22-goal, 46- should make it easier to deal in its final year, should that become point season with Washington, the 27-year-old right winger was able to necessary. secure a four-year offer from Florida at an annual cap hit of $3.5-million. It also makes a buyout somewhat easier, should that be important. The Kassian has a slight edge in both goal and point production on Connolly’s fourth year could be bought out at an annual cost of just $766,667 in real platform year: 0.30 goals per game as opposed to 0.27 and 0.64 points money over two years. The cap hits vary because the deal is frontloaded, per game as opposed to 0.56. He’s older at 29, but the 211-pound but would be $1.67 million in the first year of a hypothetical buyout and Kassian also adds an element of size and combines it with a physical $766,667 in the second. If it seems morbid to do buyout calculations the dimension Connolly does not possess. moment a contract is signed, recognize that any sensible organization The big caveat, of course, is that Kassian’s sudden offensive emergence considers the worst-case scenario before agreeing to a deal, and those has come almost entirely while playing on a line with Connor McDavid. that don’t often come to regret it.

It is not difficult to understand the effect that skating with the league’s This clarifies matters for Edmonton heading into the trade deadline. best player has had on Kassian’s scoring. Although he’s always had Although it always seemed unlikely that the Oilers would trade Kassian, better scoring potential than is sometimes acknowledged, his career arc had they been unable to agree upon a contract that would have been an altered dramatically when then-coach Ken Hitchcock decided to play him option worth considering. It was also conceivable that the team might on the Oilers’ top line. The 5-on-5 numbers over the past three seasons shop for a right-shooting winger, but with Kassian extended and Kailer speak for themselves: Yamamoto performing well on the second line, that now seems less likely. With McDavid: 1,056 minutes, on-ice for 67 goals (3.81 per hour) As long as Kassian continues to perform next to McDavid, the Oilers will Without McDavid: 1,406 minutes, on-ice for 44 goals (1.88 per hour) feel justified in the contract extension. If that happens, the question of whether another player would have had more success or similar success That’s a combination of the McDavid effect and the fourth line effect. If at a lower price point will remain largely academic. the average NHLer finds it easier to score with McDavid, he’d also find it more difficult to score with Kyle Brodziak. Nevertheless, for most of his time on the top line Kassian has been the third man, the complementary piece to two more gifted offensive players. The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020

It is to his credit that he has performed well in the role. It’s easy to overlook the fact that none of Kassian’s 28 points this season have come on the power play, and that 26 of them have come at 5-on-5. That ties him with Alex Ovechkin and others for 35th in the NHL, which is comfortably first line production. He’s tied for 48th among forwards with at least 250 minutes played by points per hour, which is also comfortably first line production.

Kassian’s extension represents a compromise between player and team, a balance between his excellent scoring this year and the certain knowledge that much of it is a result of circumstance.

For the player, this represents security. Four years is the longest term of Kassian’s career. His $3.2-million cap hit, although possibly lower than what he might have gotten on the open market, represents a 64 percent jump from the average on his last deal.

The structure of the contract is suggestive: three years at $3.5-million, along with a fourth at $2.3-million. It wouldn’t be a bad guess that the two sides could have agreed to a three-year contract at the higher dollar figure, but that they agreed on a structure which gave the player an additional season of security while offering the team a lower cap hit.

For the team, there’s an element of if-it-ain’t-broke to this extension. McDavid’s line has been effective this season. One might reasonably argue it would be effective with virtually any winger, as it has been for 1173514 Edmonton Oilers “He was a pretty tough guy, man,” McClelland said of Tim Hunter. “I got to go with him a lot.

“Paul Baxter, he was a guy who taught me a lot when I came in as a ‘That’s good for hockey’: Former Oilers weigh in on Battle of Alberta hype rookie in the NHL when we were both in Pittsburgh together. We faced ahead of Tkachuk-Kassian meeting off against each other quite a few times and dropped the gloves. I have a lot of respect for Baxter. But when I came to the Oilers, he was playing for Calgary.”

By Daniel Nugent-Bowman For better or worse, there was no bare-knuckled dustup last game between Kassian and Tkachuk. Kassian and those with Oilers Jan 29, 2020 allegiances highlight the group to criticize Tkachuk for not fighting back when the Edmonton winger was throwing punches.

Former Oiler Dave Hunter won’t be missing Wednesday’s rematch Dave Hunter disagrees with that notion. He wouldn’t have wanted to between Edmonton and Calgary for anything. Not after what happened serve as a punching bag without protecting himself in a similar manner. last time the two teams met. “That happened in our time. Calgary had some tough guys. I tell you A game-long duel featuring Zack Kassian and Matthew Tkachuk on Jan. what, a couple times I wanted to go down on my hands and knees, too,” 11 – to say little of the war of words afterwards – added a little spice to he said, laughing, adding sometimes that would mean keeping a stick up the Battle of Alberta. Kind of like the way things were in the 1980s when as a defence. the Oilers-Flames rivalry was one of the fiercest the NHL has ever seen. Oddly enough, Hunter and McClelland both have ties to Tkachuk. “Yeah,” Hunter said when asked if the proceedings reminded him of his Hunter’s brothers, Mark and Dale, managed and coached him with the playing days. OHL’s when they won the 2016 . “But you wouldn’t have gotten suspended for two games,” he added “Tkachuk’s just the type of player that likes to get under your skin,” quickly, before breaking into laughter. “That’s just the era, right? … In our Hunter said. “I think Tkachuk’s a great player.” era, you wouldn’t have the suspensions, but it’s so similar to the McClelland played with Tkachuk’s father, Keith, for a few games with excitement.” Winnipeg during the 1993-94 season. “I know the intensity the Tkachuks Here’s a refresher for those living under a rock for almost three weeks. bring to the ice every night,” McClelland said.

A powder keg exploded when Tkachuk levelled Kassian on two separate Neither former Oiler has an issue with the way Kassian handled things, occasions behind the Calgary net. A steady stream of retaliatory knuckle though. sandwiches was the rebuttal. “Back in the day, there was stuff like that – and guys looked after it. Tkachuk’s wallops ranged from dangerous or predatorial to perfectly That’s what Zack was just doing,” McClelland said. “He didn’t appreciate legal, depending on your point of view (or perhaps which team you it. He’s not gonna take it. Eventually something’s gonna happen.” support). The NHL saw nothing wrong with the checks either by way of Added Hunter: “It was good that Kassian stuck up and jumped in there an in-game penalty or supplemental discipline. with Tkachuk.” Kassian received a double minor for roughing and a 10-minute However, there is one caveat Kassian should keep in mind for next time, misconduct for unleashing his rage. The Flames scored the winning goal Hunter said. on the power play. He was then issued a two-game suspension for being the aggressor – or fighting an unwilling combatant. He’s said he’ll return “You can’t afford to lose too many games,” he said. “That’s the trouble – the favour in the form of a strong shoulder against Tkachuk at some getting too many penalties – because if you do, it can cost you. That point. happened in the playoffs a lot in our time. We had to watch getting even in the tough games against Calgary. You don’t wanna be sitting in that Will it happen in the rematch? Between that plotline and the one where box when they score the winner.” the Oilers and Flames are battling for first place – or even just a playoff spot – in the hotly contested Pacific Division, Hunter can’t wait to see Kassian and the Oilers missed out on two critical points in the last outing what happens next. for exactly that reason.

“That’s good for hockey – for people to get excited,” said Hunter, a three- It’s one thing to lose to your most hated rival. But it’s another entirely to time Stanley Cup champion with Edmonton. “And the games are close, do it when for the first time in a generation both teams are good. too. We used to have the same thing in our era. Calgary had great teams. All us Oiler boys, we love to see this.” They’re not great like they were in the ’80s and into the early ’90s, when, as McClelland suggested, the Flames would have won more Stanley Count Kevin McClelland in that group as well. Cups had it not been for the Oilers.

McClelland was Hunter’s longtime linemate, and usually one of the The Oilers knocked off the Flames in the playoffs in 1983, 1984, 1988 disturbers right in the thick of the rough stuff. and 1991. Their only series loss came in 1986, the year the Flames reached their first Cup final. The last meeting harkened back to the good ol’ days – if only partially. But there’s a realistic chance the teams could meet in the playoffs for the “The rivalry’s still very intense,” said McClelland, a four-time Cup winner first time since 1991. And wouldn’t that be something for old time’s sake. while with the Oilers from 1983 to 1989. “It’s not like it was back in the ’80s when I played, but there were hard hits. “We had a lot of respect for Calgary,” Hunter said. “We maybe hated them, but we had a lot of respect for them. Does that make sense? “You’re always gonna have that blood flowing and the emotions running high every time you play Calgary if you play for Edmonton.” “A lot of times, we had seven-game series with them. You knew you were gonna be sore after the games. In a lot of ways, it was fun to play in McClelland was often at his best – see, angriest – form when his Oilers those games. I always said that’s what hockey is all about.” faced their southern foes. His specialty was catching opponents off guard with his left fist. Former teammate once said of McClelland, We’re not back to those days – at least not yet. But Kassian and Tkachuk “He had this look in his eyes that I’m sure scared a lot of other teams,” have got people talking about the Battle of Alberta again. and that was often evident against Calgary. What happens next remains to be seen. And Hunter can’t wait to watch. The late Dave Semenko was the Edmonton heavyweight, ready to take on all comers. But a class down, guys like McClelland and Don Jackson “That’s good for hockey to have a rivalry like that I love it,” he said, were always willing to tussle. chuckling. “That’s good for everybody … It’s good to have a little fun like that.” Jackson would trade blows with Jim Peplinski. McClelland’s favourite combatants were Tim Hunter and Paul Baxter. The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173515 Edmonton Oilers the offensive zone, where I’m not particularly fond of his ability to run a power play or quarterback at even strength. Given how high the Oilers selected him and the talent they passed on in the process, they’re really banking on his age and raw tools following a steep upward trajectory. Wheeler’s 2020 NHL prospect pool rankings: No. 15 Edmonton Oilers 3. Raphael Lavoie, RW, 19 (Chicoutimi Sagueneens)

There’s a lot to like about Lavoie’s game. He’s big, he finishes his checks By Scott Wheeler while rarely crossing the line into being undisciplined, he’s got good hands for a player his size, which helps him keep plays alive and he’s a Jan 29, 2020 smooth skater, extending through long strides to push up the ice in straight lines (he’s less agile from a standstill but he can skate). The most impressive facet of Lavoie’s game, though, is his ability to create shots Welcome to Scott Wheeler’s 2020 rankings of every NHL organization’s for himself. He goes to the slot, he changes angles extremely effectively, prospects. You can find the complete ranking and more information on he can play with his back to the net and then pivot into a hard shot. It’s the criteria here, as we count down daily from No. 31 to No. 1. The impressive. He’s the kind of player who will fairly regularly land 10 shots series, which includes evaluations and commentary from coaches and on goal in a game. He’s going to put up big numbers in Chicoutimi down staff on more than 500 prospects, runs from Jan. 13 to Feb. 11. the stretch and could make a run at the Memorial Cup as one of the better players in junior hockey. His defensive game is also fine — without This probably isn’t where Oilers fans, given everything the team has being great. He may be able to penalty kill at the pro level. been through in recent memory, expected to find their team’s prospect pool. Lavoie told me things really began to change for him when, after losing the first two games against the eight-seeded Quebec Remparts in last But after recent graduations for Caleb Jones and Kailer Yamamoto, it’s a year’s playoffs, his Mooseheads held a team meeting and he decided he pool that looks as thin as just about any other team’s. They’re as high as wasn’t going to be stopped — and rattled off a 20-goal (to lead the they are thanks to the strength of their top prospect, a player I’m higher QMJHL), 32-point playoff performance across 23 games. on than most (though the player at No. 2 on their ranking is someone I’m decidedly low on). “And I haven’t stopped,” Lavoie, who is infamously confident, said. “I can bring some offence. I bring a lot of pucks to the net, I have a pretty good Still, while Edmonton’s system has intriguing players at every position shot and I go to the net hard.” (including a couple forwards I’ve always been fond of), its current state is a reflection of mediocre outcomes from the draft — and of having no Getting cut from last year’s world junior team motivated him to make sure picks in rounds 3-5 in 2018. his audition for this year’s tournament turned out differently, too. I thought Lavoie was one of Canada’s best players in selection camp, though that Ultimately, it’s a group that really begins to thin out after the first half faded a little on the main stage. dozen players. “I told myself I wanted to be on the team next year. It helped motivate 1. Evan Bouchard, RHD, 20 () me. It’s tough. It’s tough,” he said of last year’s heartbreak. “It was not Bouchard has put together an excellent first season of pro hockey. He’s fun.” second among AHL rookie defencemen in scoring, behind only 24-year- 4. Tyler Benson, LW, 21 (Bakersfield Condors) old Brogan Rafferty. As I write this, he’s on the cusp of the league’s top 10 defencemen in scoring, period. Among under-21 defencemen, he’s in After a breakout year as one of the AHL’s best rookies last season, a tie for first with Timothy Liljegren (Leafs) — and tied for seventh among Benson has followed that up with a solid sophomore year, where he all players, regardless of position, in his age group. His 103 shots ranks leads the team in points and is tied for fifth among all under-22 AHL tied for seventh among all AHL defencemen, and first among all rookies players. He’s in some pretty good company these days, statistically. at his position. He has done this on a Bakersfield team that’s 22nd in the Stylistically, he’s a driven, puck-pursuit, pass-first winger. He handles the AHL in points percentage, 21st in goals for per game and 25th in goals puck well, which helps him pull up off the rush with ease, weave through against per game. He has, basically from the onset and particularly of traffic in the offensive zone or create entries as his line’s primary handler. late, been a driving force for offence on a team that sorely needs it. And He’s the kind of winger who makes his linemates better, can run a power while there are still some defensive warts in his game, including his at- play and drives a line. He also sees plays develop before anyone else, times lackadaisical approach to the defensive zone and his mediocre delaying to find and create seams that weren’t there a half-second skating, Bouchard routinely showcases what makes him such a unique earlier. And while I wouldn’t qualify him as a powerful skater or a strong player through his ability to get shots through traffic, his skill on long presence along the boards, he can hold his own in both regards and he’s outlet passes, his heads-up playmaking with the puck and his knack for a reliable defensive player who rarely cheats. If there’s one concern with sliding into open space to activate as an offensive threat. He won’t wow his game, it’s whether he’ll be able to produce at a decent rate at the you with his puck skill or a separation gear but he’s a dangerous NHL level without being much of a threat to score. offensive player in almost every other area. Bouchard’s going to be a first power play type. If he can learn to keep his feet moving and remain as 5. Ryan McLeod, C, 20 (Bakersfield Condors) active defensively as he is offensively, he’ll also be a shot-generating, Though his numbers don’t leap out at you, I’ve liked what I’ve seen out of possession-driving even-strength option. If he can put it all together, McLeod as a rookie this season. His skating is always going to be the be- there’s some star power there. all and end-all of his game. If he becomes an NHLer, it will be the driving 2. , LHD, 18 (Skellefteå AIK) force behind his success. He can turn defenders around, create partial breaks for himself, impact the forecheck and apply backpressure back Broberg’s one of those players whose raw tools grab your attention. He’s the other way. This year, that has shown up in the positive impact he’s 6-foot-3 and 200-plus pounds, with a late 2001 birthdate, all things that had on the Condors defensively, more than offensively. He has shown tease just how good he might be. He’s got a fluidity to his stride that most some flashes with the puck, too, though. McLeod has worked hard to players his age and size lack, which helps him get from A to B with and improve his shot but it’s never going to be the way he creates. Instead, without the puck, push pace up ice with his feet and create entries and he uses outside-in puck skill or he draws defenders with his skating to exits (he’s No. 5 in the sequences below): open up space for his linemates. He’s already a good AHL player. Give him some time to become a great one and build some confidence and Broberg also, despite maybe lacking the required skills, flat out tries the Oilers may have a versatile, up-and-down the lineup type who can things. He wants to make plays: play on both special teams. He’s also got a dangerous catch-and-shoot release that slings off his 6. Dmitri Samorukov, LHD, 20 (Bakersfield Condors) blade and makes him a threat to score when he’s left open. Samorukov, like McLeod, has shown well in my viewings and put But there’s also a lot about Broberg’s game that drives me crazy. While I together a quietly good rookie season in the AHL this year. There are was pleasantly surprised by the way he handled more of a shutdown role always going to be questions about his offensive upside and his ability to at the world juniors, Broberg’s decision-making is suspect, his hands are create goals without his shot (which is powerful) but his stalwart rigid, he turns the puck over too often and he often overcommits defensive play, which made him one of the OHL’s better players, has defensively. His skill set makes him more dangerous off the rush than in translated effectively to the pro level. He plays hard and uses his 6-foot-3 frame to lead with his stick, gap tightly and finish with his body when and calculated you are. Some believe he’s a legitimate goalie prospect, necessary but not just because. He’s also a smart, calculated distributor though — and a big reason the Wildcats are so good right now. of the puck, regularly making little plays that advance the puck up ice, even if they don’t directly contribute to goals. He’s a relied upon 5-on-5 I recently spoke with Rodrigue, some of his teammates and some of defender who can penalty kill and skates well for his size. Moncton’s staff in an effort to learn more about his game.

7. Ilya Konovalov, G, 21 (Lokomotiv Yaroslavl) Here’s Moncton coach Darryl Boyce:

Konovalov’s one of hockey’s tougher goalies to evaluate because there “He has been really good for us. He has been stellar and really the are just so few 5-foot-11 goalies left at the pro level. After half a decade backbone of our team. We’ve got a lot of offence on our team but when it with impressive numbers, enough so to get him drafted as an overager, gets into the D zone he makes the saves that he’s supposed to make, Konovalov has been less impressive this year, complicating that which is important for us. He’s a very collected personality, he’s very evaluation process further. He intrigues me, though, because he outgoing, he’s very well-liked amongst his teammates.” combines impressive athleticism with a compact, aggressive game. He Here’s Brett Turner, who works in hockey ops and scouting for the can make the stretch saves bigger goalies make or explode post-to-post, Wildcats: but he doesn’t swim in his net like some small goalies do when they try to overcompensate to make difficult saves. He also does a good job moving “Rody is Rody. He shows up every day with a smile on his face and the puck, which I think is an asset we sometimes forget about for goalies. nothing seems to get him too worked up. What an unbelievable kid. He’s It wouldn’t surprise me if he came over, dominated the AHL and worked just a great guy to have around a team and he’s one of those goaltenders his way into the NHL conversation. where he has that mentality where I don’t think the big stage (bothers) him. It’s just ‘Let’s go to the rink and play another hockey game’ with 8. Aapeli Rasanen, C, 21 (Boston College) Rody. That’s just his mindset.”

After a disappointing sophomore year, Rasanen has begun to Here’s Lavoie, who knew Rodrigue through the Canada-Russia series, demonstrate the promise he showed as a freshman. He has been one of some events and playing against each other in the the Eagles’ most consistent offensive players, using his speed to push QMJHL before they both became Oilers prospects. pace and win races. He definitely lacks offensive flair, which limits where he projects as a potential NHLer. But Rasanen’s defensive game has “We spent dev camp and main camp together and it was good, I found a improved, he’s strong on the puck and he’s versatile offensively without new friend. He’s pretty quiet, he’s a good guy, he does his things right, being dynamic in any one area. It’s not hard to imagine him having a big he’s always on time, he’s always doing the details right and that’s why senior year next year, turning pro in the AHL and climbing up the roster he’s one of the best goalie in our league. It’s pretty hard to score on him into a bottom-six role. actually, he’s really good. He’s got good hands. Whenever you try to score high or low on him, his glove’s always there.” 9. Filip Berglund, RHD, 22 (Skellefteå AIK) Here’s Rodrigue, himself: Berglund has continued to play a leading role on a decent team this season, regularly logging more than 20 minutes a night (though his “I think I’ve had a pretty good season. The team is doing well. But I have season average is actually down from last year) while contributing at both to keep going. I think I played the way I was supposed to. I think my ends. He’s tied for fourth among under-23 SHL defencemen in scoring experience will help me. I’ve been in the tougher situations. I think that’s without being on Skelleftea’s top power play unit. Just from his a point for me. I’m pretty mobile, I move well on the ice, but I like to keep characteristics alone, there’s immediate intrigue: Right-handed, 6-foot-3, simple. I’m not the type of guy who’s going to jump and dive everywhere. 200-plus pounds. His game does have some interesting qualities, I like to keep it in the belly, I think it’s more efficient that way.” though. While his hands are a little stilted or his skating is a little clunky, 12. Maxim Denezhkin, C, 19 (Loko Yaroslavl) Berglund helps to correct against those things through sheer power. He can overcome the mediocre skating by winning more board battles than Denezhkin is small and he hasn’t taken the steps forward you’d hope for some better skaters, for example. at the MHL level this year, so there’s reason to be at least a little concerned with his progression. But he was also named Yaroslavl’s He’s also got a dangerous shot, which despite a bit of a weird release (he captain this year for a reason and that’s because he doesn’t give up on kind of throws his body into it, rather than using his shaft and blade to plays, he’s active in all three zones, he can play on both special teams, release from the heel and help generate power with technique), he can he can be counted upon late in games and he can play with a variety of power past goalies. That’s true with his wrister: linemates as a bit of a jack of all trades. Denezkhin’s actual skills are It’s true with his stunted slapshots, which even looks weird: pretty impressive. He can score in tight with his release, his stride mechanics are sound and fluid and his head is always up as a playmaker He’s also willing to go to the backdoor and does a nice job, defensively or passer, so he’s capable of hanging onto the puck or playing more of a and offensively, filling space to either take away time from opponents or chip-and-chase, give-and-go game. My concern with his upside is more create time for himself. Decisions like this, to slide into a more dangerous about his strength. Because while his skating may be smooth or his area, are common from Berglund: release may be quick, neither are powerful. He’ll need to get stronger to Berglund’s not going to be more than a third pairing guy at the next level reach his true potential and become the kind of all-situations player some but he’s already a contributing defender in a top-tier pro league, he’s got believe he can be. size and length and he uses them both effectively in the defensive zone. 13. Tomas Mazura, C, 19 (Omaha Lancers/Kimball Union Academy) If he can clean up some mechanics, he might just make it. Mazura has followed a bit of a weird trajectory. Once a highly touted 10. Kirill Maksimov, RW, 20 (Bakersfield Condors) prospect with a unique blend of size and skill, he lost a full year to a After a good though not great final two seasons in junior, Maksimov’s collarbone injury and is now playing out his post-draft season in the prep rookie season in the AHL has followed a bit of the same path. He’s school circuit. He was briefly recalled by the USHL’s Lancers while they playing his physical, power forward brand effectively and does a good job dealt with injuries but he won’t return until his year with KUA, one of the getting to the net, keeping cycles alive and winning back pucks. He can better high school hockey programs in the country, wraps up — and also knock opponents over whenever he wants to. But questions of talent won’t begin his college career at Providence until he’s 20. Mazura is a 6- and upside still remain. He’s got a hard shot but I would say his release foot-4, 200-plus pound centre with standout playmaking ability and a is quick, plus he puts a lot of passes into his linemates’ feet. He may knack for executing high-end, unsuspecting passes. While you’d like him become a fine, thorn-in-your side fourth-line player but I think mediocre to be a little more aggressive as a power forward and shooter, you don’t pace and playmaking will hold him back from becoming more than that. often see young players his size with the ability to make plays and stickhandle in tight to their bodies. That, plus the late-blooming 11. Olivier Rodrigue, G, 19 () considerations that come with his injury history, make for an intriguing project. I have struggled with my evaluation of Rodrigue’s game, which has always told me he’s composed and quick but he’s too small and he lacks 14. Matej Blumel, RW/LW, 19 (HC Dynamo Pardubice) explosiveness for his size, which contributes to his mediocre numbers. Unless you’re huge, you can’t lack athleticism, no matter how compact Blumel is one of those prospects who turns doubters into believers by doing everything you’d want out of a player’s pursuit of maximizing their upside. He keeps his feet moving, he doesn’t slouch or give up on plays, he has worked to bulk up in the gym and play a north-south, puck- pursuit, protection game. You could hope, given how strong he has become and the way he skates, which is above average, that he’d play a little more physically in that chase style. Otherwise, though, he’s got a heavy shot (I wouldn’t say it’s the quickest release but it does pop off his stick) and good hands (I wouldn’t say they’re great but he can hang onto it when he’s absorbing contact), which help him chip in offensively. He’s not going to drive a line, though, largely because he lacks a high-end playmaking element, so he’ll need to take good goal scoring instincts to the next level to make the transition. I was disappointed in his world juniors, too.

15. Ostap Safin, RW, 20 ()

Safin is a bit of an anomaly in the prospect world in that he’s 6-foot-5 and he can fly. Whenever a player is that big and can skate like he can, they’re immediately interesting at the pro level. But after missing most of last season with a nagging lower-body injury, Safin was atrocious for his age and size on the contending Mooseheads, playing a limited role down the stretch. This year, he has shown a little more of the mediocre talent level that made him interesting enough to warrant taking in his draft year — and led to an intriguing season with the Saint John Sea Dogs. I’ve only watched a couple of Wichita’s games this year but he looked good in both, particularly off the rush. He doesn’t have good hands, he’s not a feared physical presence despite his size and his defensive game comes and goes, but he can contribute off the rush and he covers a lot of ice without the puck when he wants to. He’s one of the Thunder’s leading scorers and if he can continue to demonstrate even remote consistent in his game, an AHL opportunity will follow. Everyone is fascinated by him.

16. Philip Kemp, RHD, 20 (Yale University)

Kemp skates well for a 6-foot-3 defenceman, with a smooth, long stride that helps him defend the rush at a high level backwards and close on pucks forwards (he doesn’t really use it to push as a carrier with his feet, preferring to make short passes or go D-to-D. His defending is unquestionably going to translate to the pro level. He lacks puck skill, though, and he doesn’t do a good job identifying seams offensively, relying too heavily on the simple play (the chip, the ring around the boards, etc.) when there are other opportunities available. There are still rare cases of players who work their way into third-pairing roles as penalty killers but Kemp’s a long shot.

17. Skyler Brind’Amour, C, 20 (Quinnipiac University)

I didn’t think anything of Brind’Amour in each of the last three seasons but he has looked good in my viewings as a freshman this year, demonstrating better-than-I-remember passing ability alongside decent athletic traits. I also know they’re happy with how he has adjusted. So he gets an honourable mention of sorts here and a commitment from me to watch him play more.

The Tiers

Each of my prospect pool rankings will be broken down into team-specific tiers in order to give you a better sense of the talent proximity from one player to the next (a gap which is sometimes minute and in other cases quite pronounced).

If you’ve been following the rest of the series, you’ll notice how quickly the Oilers’ tiers drop off into an abyss of long shots. Part of that is natural turnover and the loss of Jones and Yamamoto, who would both be firmly in that second tier. But most other teams have also lost young players to the NHL this year so it’s not as though the Oilers have been unfairly disadvantaged. It’s a good thing I love Bouchard and I’m higher than most on Lavoie and Benson, I suppose.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173516 Edmonton Oilers Babineau quickly responded with the correct answer: Springfield. “Maybe he was trying to catch me and prove I was wrong, but I proved I

was right,” Babineau said. The half-million dollar hockey card that ties together Wayne Gretzky and On the day Gretzky was in Boston earlier this month, he explained how a the Bruins team photographer person could tell the photo used for his NHL rookie card was taken during his WHA days because of the Edmonton sweater, and the way he taped his socks. By Joe McDonald In the photo, the Oiler crest is white with orange letters, which was not Jan 29, 2020 used once the team joined the NHL for the 1979-80 season. Plus, Gretzky used white tape on his dark socks in his WHA days, which was a

no-no in the NHL. Steve Babineau walked into the press room, shaking his head in “When we (were in the WHA), and I didn’t even realize this, the Oilers disappointment. had two crests – one with the blue and one with the white,” Gretzky said. “I blew it,” the Bruins’ team photographer said, the regret clear in his “When we went into the NHL, the league said you could only have one voice. “I don’t have it, and he’s here.” logo, so it got changed to all blue and no orange letters.”

The “it” was Wayne Gretzky’s 1979 O-Pee-Chee rookie card. The “he” Gretzky’s connection to Babineau is only one of his many ties to the was No. 99 himself. Bruins. Gretzky was extremely close with Garnet “Ace” Bailey, who played for the Bruins in the early ’70s and won a Stanley Cup in Boston. Gretzky was in attendance when the Bruins hosted the Edmonton Oilers The two were teammates with the Oilers in 1978-79 and the veteran on Jan. 4. Unfortunately for Babineau, he didn’t have the hockey card, became a mentor for the young superstar. Bailey later worked as a scout which today is worth $1,000 ungraded. A higher grade is worth much for the Oilers and Kings before his death on Sept. 11, 2001, on board more; pristine versions have sold for six figures in recent years. United 175 from Boston to Los Angeles, the plane that struck the South Tower of the World Trade Center in New York as part of a terrorist plot “I keep telling him every time I see him to bring the picture in and I’ll sign against the United States. it for you and he’s yet to bring the picture,” Gretzky told The Athletic. “One of these days we’ll get it done.” Gretzky would spend a week every summer with Ace and his wife, Kathy, at the couple’s home in Lynnfield, Mass. But believe it or not, Babineau doesn’t want the card signed, like so many other collectors. What he wants is a photograph of him and Gretzky “I loved coming here,” Gretzky said. together, holding the card. Gretzky Oilers Bruins Babineau Why? He explained those days with Ace were spent talking hockey, especially Babineau is the photographer who took the picture that was originally about those Bruins Stanley Cup teams in the early ’70s that featured used for Gretzky’s iconic rookie card, the most valuable hockey card ever Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito and Wayne Cashman. made. “Ace and I used to sit around and he would tell me stories about the In January 1978, the roof of the Hartford Civic Center collapsed, and the Bruins and Bobby Orr. I had such fond memories and respect for those then-New England Whalers of the World Hockey Association were forced guys,” Gretzky said. “I think Ace used to get tired of me asking him to relocate north, to the Springfield Civic Center in Massachusetts. The questions about Bobby and Phil Esposito.” team was still playing there in the spring of 1979 when the 18-year-old Gretzky and the Edmonton Oilers arrived for a pair of games on March Of course, Bruins fans of a certain age might ruefully remember “The 30 and April 1. Great One” for his performance in the 1988 Stanley Cup final. The Oilers won that series in five games against the Bruins. Babineau, who has been the Bruins’ team photog for 43 years, was asked to photograph one of the games and he accepted the assignment “It used to be always fun coming into the Boston Garden, but I never based on the opportunity to shoot Gordie Howe, who was playing for the played good in the Boston Garden,” Gretzky said. “I never really had a Whalers. Babineau also knew Gretzky, then wrapping up a 110-point good game in nine years.” debut season, would be there. Well, except one. Babineau remembers that the arena was dark, and that he actually took “I played one really good game, which was Game 3 of the Stanley Cup a picture of Howe and Gretzky together during a faceoff. The money finals in ’88. I used to get so excited to play in here because I was a huge shot, however, the one that was used for Gretzky’s rookie card, featured Bobby Orr fan.” No. 99 skating between the top of the crease and blue line, looking up at the scoreboard. At that moment, Babineau snapped the photo from the Gretzky produced a four-point game (four assists) to lead the Oilers to a penalty box. 6-3 win over the Bruins that night.

At the time, Babineau didn’t know Gretzky — who would migrate to the When Gretzky was in Boston earlier this month, current Oilers captain NHL with the Oilers the next season — would eventually smash records Connor McDavid scored an impressive goal against the Bruins — so and become perhaps the greatest hockey player of all time, while winning good that Gretzky talked about it for days. The goal also made Gretzky four Stanley Cups. recall what it was like during his playing days when the Bruins would send Cam Neely, Ray Bourque and Steve Kasper out onto the ice “I didn’t realize the first time shooting him what he was going to develop against him. into and become the player that he became,” Babineau said. “He added a different dimension to the game, just like Bobby Orr did. (Gretzky) was “Try to shadow Connor McDavid and you’ll be about two blue lines an unbelievable player and he proved with his numbers and winning the behind,” Gretzky said with a laugh. Stanley Cup a few times.” Whenever there’s an opportunity to talk hockey with Gretzky, one has to Even though Babineau certainly remembered taking the photo used for take advantage of it. So, The Athletic asked No. 99 what it would have Gretzky’s rookie card, the photographer didn’t really think much about it been like to play against Patrice Bergeron, who is considered the best until he heard that one Mint-10 version of the card sold at auction for two-way centerman of his generation. $465,000 in 2016 to an anonymous buyer. “Listen, I love watching players who love to play the game and when you At one point during the 2016 season, Babineau was with the Bruins in see Bergeron, (Brad) Marchand and (David) Pastrnak, yeah they’re good Florida and Gretzky was in attendance. Babineau introduced himself and – very good and talented. My point of view as an ex-player, I love how explained he was the photographer of that rookie card. Gretzky they play with passion and how hard they play, and they’re unselfish,” recognized Babineau, but still wanted to test his knowledge about the Gretzky said. card. Entering the recent All-Star break, Pastrnak was leading the NHL with 37 “Where was it taken?” Gretzky asked. goals and he’s on pace to reach 50 for the first time in his career. “I think what Pastrnak is doing is really incredible,” Gretzky said.

Gretzky also believes Bergeron is in a class of his own in today’s game, and that he’s making those players around him better.

“Bergeron has been great. He’s the new Bob Gainey of this era, maybe even closer to a Bobby Clarke because (Bergeron’s) a little more of a threat offensively than Bob Gainey was,” Gretzky said. “As far as being a team player and unselfish, that’s what the game is about and to me I enjoy watching players who love to play and aren’t selfish, and that’s what Bergeron brings to the table every game.”

After the Oilers defeated the Bruins earlier this month, Gretzky walked from his suite on level 5 to the visitors’ dressing room on level 3. On the way he ran into Keith Babineau, who is an assistant equipment manager for the Bruins, the visitors’ locker room attendant and Steve’s son. Gretzky had a message for the younger Babineau.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173517 Los Angeles Kings gold T-shirt back on. His voice beginning to catch again, he summed up Bryant’s legacy best he could.

“My favorite thing about him is he wanted to win no matter what,” Kopitar Kings fall on a night of tributes to Kobe Bryant said. “Whether that’s playing hard, or finesse, there’s not very many nights where he took the nights off. He was the ultimate competitor. A closer. A champion.”

By JACK HARRIS STAFF WRITER

JAN. 29, 2020 11:13 PM LA Times: LOADED: 01.30.2020

They arrived wearing his jersey, then slipped into T-shirts bearing his and his daughter’s names. They stepped onto the ice while two banners hung from above, his retired Nos. 8 and 24 illuminated by a spotlight. For the first time since his death, they brought sports back to Staples Center and helped their heartbroken city heal just a little bit more.

The Kings may not have ever technically counted Kobe Bryant as one of their own, but Wednesday night they honored him like one.

“The last few days, we can all see what’s going on around the city, the amount of people that came out and paid their respects to obviously one of the greats in the game of basketball,” Kings captain Anze Kopitar said during a pregame TV interview, having along with the rest of his teammates arrived in the arena wearing a Bryant jersey.

“For us as hockey players, being for so many years connected to the Lakers just next door, we felt like we had to pay some sort of tribute.”

The Kings bench look to the ice, behind a Kobe Bryant and Gigi tribute on the boards, during a 4-2 Tampa Bay Lightning win at Staples Center on Wednesday.

Bryant’s memory hung over the Kings’ 4-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning like a somber shroud. Four days after the Lakers legend died in a helicopter crash that also took the lives of eight others, including his 13- year-old daughter Gianna, the Kings brought purple and gold back to the building the Lakers legend called home for so long.

Prior to the puck drop, former Kings broadcaster Bob Miller emceed a minutes-long tribute to Bryant and the other victims of Sunday’s accident. In the stands, purple and gold blotches belted out chants of Bryant’s name. During a 24-second moment of silence, Kopitar buried his face in his gloves.

“Even though you know it’s coming, you still get choked up,” Kopitar said. “It’s going to sting for a while.”

During the first intermission, the farewell speech Bryant gave after his final NBA game in 2016 was shown on the video board. During the game, in which the Kings blew a 2-0 lead, purple and gold stickers were placed on the backs of the Kings’ helmets. Afterward, two Bryant jerseys hung in the corners of their locker room.

And on a night in which players around the NHL and NBA changed their numbers in honor of Bryant, Kings defensemen Drew Doughty (No. 8) and Derek Forbort (No. 24) each sat out the game because of injuries.

“It struck home,” Kings coach Todd McLellan said of Bryant’s death. “It was a jolt.”

Unlike some of the players — nine Kings were with the franchise during Bryant’s last NBA season, and the Lakers and Kings shared the same practice facility in El Segundo during most of Bryant’s career — McLellan never met Bryant. Only in the last several days did the team’s first-year coach come to fully understand Bryant’s ubiquitous influence in the city.

Kings left wing Alex Iafallo wears a sticker on his helmet honoring Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi before a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Wednesday at Staples Center. All the Kings players wore the stickers on their helmets.

“There was no shortage of ink going on the paper with all the quotes about him,” McLellan said. “I’ve read a book once: ‘Who Will Cry When You Die?’ I was thinking of that. The comments that come out after you’re gone, what will people say about us? It’s pretty remarkable the comments [about Kobe] now.”

Then, McLellan, a father of two boys, paused and added: “I didn’t realize he was such a good father.”

Kopitar had known all this for a long time. He had met Bryant and admired him. Before reporters rushed to his locker, he put the purple and 1173518 Los Angeles Kings It was Stamkos who finally knotted the score at two off a one-timer. “It went for, obviously, the whole two minutes,” Kopitar said. “We just

couldn’t manage to get out of the zone. The guys were sacrificing their Stamkos, Lightning rally past Kings in somber Staples Center bodies with blocks and it’s unfortunate that once you get to even-strength you get scored on.”

Center Mitchell Stevens banged a shot off the post later in the period, By ANDREW KNOLL moments before being taken to the ice by hulking Kings defenseman Kurtis MacDermid during a goalmouth scrum. PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 10:29 pm | UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 11:26 PM The Kings’ once sizable lead in shots was reduced to 22-17 through two periods as they came under fire later in the middle frame.

Just over four minutes into the third period, Tampa took its first lead. An LOS ANGELES — On a night when the Kings honored Kobe Bryant, the offensive-zone faceoff win and considerable net-front traffic allowed Kings could not muster the late-game heroics he was known for during Cernak to connect on a wrist shot from the high, right corner of the zone his 20 NBA seasons with the Lakers. to the far side of the net. They took a 2-0 lead but ultimately fell 4-2 to the Tampa Bay Lightning in With 9:15 left to play, Stamkos appeared to have scored again, but a front of a robust crowd in the first sporting event at Staples Center since successful challenge – the play was offside as Stamkos received the Bryant’s death. puck – nullified the potentially game-sealing goal. “We started off good, then maybe we slipped a little bit during the course “That was a pretty simple one; it was real obvious,” McLellan said. of the second period,” team captain Anze Kopitar said. “It seems like an ongoing pattern where we’re losing games by one or two with the empty- Stamkos did add a second goal – his 22nd of the season – when he net.” scored into an empty net with half a second remaining.

The Bolts have won 13 of their last 16 games, including a stretch when Stamkos, an Ontarian, reflected on the pre-game ceremony and Bryant’s they reeled off 10 straight victories. The Kings have now lost eight of their career, recalling that “he scored 81 against my Raptors. That was last nine games and won just one game in January while falling to the probably the iconic moment for me for sure.” bottom of the Western Conference standings. Hedman, a Swede, said that although basketball wasn’t the biggest Right wing Tyler Toffoli and left wing Alex Iafallo scored for the Kings, game in his country, everyone knew Bryant and was shocked by the who were without top defenseman Drew Doughty, who sat out with an news. He and Stamkos said they were honored to take part in an undisclosed injury, ending the longest consecutive games played streak unconventional ceremony that celebrated the life of a star in another (460) in franchise history. sport.

Center Steven Stamkos had two goals and an assist for Tampa Bay, “When I first heard the news, I never had that feeling before, it was just while right wing Tyler Johnson and defenseman Erik Cernak also scored. shock, like it wasn’t really real,” Stamkos said. “To be able to be here Jonathan Quick fought off 20 of the 23 shots he faced, while Tampa tonight, they honored him in the pregame, that was very good on them. Bay’s Andrei Vasilevskiy made 32 of 34 stops. We’re glad, obviously, that we got to be part of it under those tough circumstances.” The arena held a somber pregame ceremony honoring Bryant and the eight other victims of Sunday’s helicopter crash, then the Kings got on The Kings travel to Arizona on Thursday to face the Coyotes on a quick the board 6:44 into the first period as they gathered and attacked on the turnaround. Arizona lost to the Ducks on Wednesday at Honda Center power play. Toffoli dangled between defenseman Ryan McDonagh and but remains amid a crowded pack of Pacific Division contenders. center Anthony Cirelli, letting a backhand rip past Vasilevskiy.

Just 78 seconds into the second period, the Kings took a 2-0 lead on another sharp breakout, this time at even strength. Defenseman Alec Orange County Register: LOADED: 01.30.2020 Martinez turned the puck up ice on his backhand for right wing Dustin Brown, who sent a cross-ice pass ahead to Iafallo. He gained the offensive zone with momentum and wound up for a slap shot that made it 2-0.

Less than three minutes later, the Kings nearly took a commanding 3-0 lead when Toffoli’s rising wrist shot dented the crossbar.

“I was happy with the way we started the game. Coming out of the (10- day All-Star) break, I was really concerned if we would get our engine going, especially against that team,” Kings coach Todd McLellan said. “We got it going. We didn’t get it to three when we had some really good chances and that probably hurt us.”

At the 5:48 mark of the period, Tampa Bay halved the Kings’ lead on a swift, crafty rush of its own. Left wing Ondrej Palat got defenseman Matt Roy and Quick to commit just before he slipped the puck across to Johnson for a de-facto empty-net goal.

“Good teams make you pay for mistakes. We made some tonight, like that pinch on the first goal,” McLellan said.

The Lightning evened the score 13 seconds after their power play expired, just shy of 12 minutes into the period, though oddly it was the Kings’ penalty kill that seemed heroic in defeat.

They were hemmed in by the Lightning’s power play – which features players honored as the league’s top defenseman (Victor Hedman); its two-time leading goal-scorer (Stamkos); and its most valuable player and scoring champion (Kucherov) – for more than two minutes before ceding a goal. Quick made a spectacular save on Stamkos, Iafallo made a selfless on a Hedman blast from above the circles and Joakim Ryan saved a goal as Kucherov fired into a large opening. 1173519 Los Angeles Kings Doughty, and No. 24, Derek Forbort, were missing from the lineup with injuries.

They also had an intentional tribute to Bryant, a pre-game ceremony Kings honor Kobe Bryant, others in first Staples Center game since crash introduced by longtime Kings broadcaster Bob Miller. It featured a photo montage with narration, followed by a 24-second moment of silence. Fans briefly chanted “Ko-be,” in a tug-of-war of emotions between the grief of his loss and the jubilance of his life. By ANDREW KNOLL The Kings organization is historically linked to the Lakers, and not just PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 9:03 pm | UPDATED: January 29, because they shared a training complex in El Segundo until 2017. The 2020 at 11:15 PM teams have continuously shared an arena since the Kings joined the NHL in 1967, and Lakers owner Jerry Buss also owned the Kings from 1979-88. Jack Kent Cooke owned the Lakers from 1965 to 1979, and the LOS ANGELES — There were the usual scents of bacon-wrapped hot Kings from their inception (1967) to 1979 before selling both franchises dogs and pungent smoke outside Staples Center on Wednesday night, and the Forum to Buss. but there was also a profound sadness in the air. After 32 seasons together in the Forum in Inglewood, the Kings and The Kings played the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first pro sporting event Lakers have shared Staples Center along with the Clippers since the in Los Angeles since Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and building opened in 1999. seven others died when their helicopter crashed Sunday in Calabasas. Bryant, who played the final 17 seasons of his 20-year career at Staples, Chick Hearn Court was lined with a vast mosaic of flowers, jerseys, frequently brought his family with him to Kings games. He and his wife , sneakers, photographs, signs and Mylar balloons in tribute Vanessa were once featured on the Kings’ “kiss cam” across the Staples to Kobe and Gianna. Fans paid their respects as even some with rugged Center Jumbotron. The crowd erupted when he was shown saluting the aesthetics removed their caps, stared down forlornly and, in several fans in person or leading a “Go, Kings, Go” chant in a recording. Below cases, wept. the stands, at the arena’s event level, he frequently strolled through holding the hand of his oldest daughter, Natalia, and carrying a younger The normally busy, Times Square-esque screens that alternate Gianna in his arms. advertisements at L.A. Live held just one image, that of Kobe and Gianna with the names of the other seven victims written below it. “What’s really beautiful to see is what he was doing with his family. That became the most important thing in his life,” Robitaille said. “It’s just For the Kings’ part, the players arrived at the arena adorned in No. 8 or really sad that we lost him so young, but I feel really sad for his family No. 24 Lakers jerseys, and both the Kings and the Tampa Bay Lightning because he was spending so much quality time with them. I think that’s wore tribute stickers on the backs of their helmets, which featured the hardest part about this.” Bryant’s uniform numbers superimposed over a yellow heart along with “Kobe” and “Gigi.” Kings captain Anze Kopitar said the players collectively decided to wear Bryant’s jersey in homage. Orange County Register: LOADED: 01.30.2020 “For us as hockey players, being so many years kind of connected to the Lakers, we felt like we’ve got to pay some sort of tribute,” Kopitar told the Kings’ television broadcasters. “It’s a little unorthodox for our dress code, but we wanted to pay our respects.

“He was the ultimate champion. He was known as the Black Mamba and the closer. He was here to win games and win championships, and that’s the ultimate goal in sports.”

Kings president and longtime player Luc Robitaille, whose statue outside Staples will be joined by one of Kobe before long, shared his own thoughts of Bryant’s career and legacy.

“What he’s meant to the city, what he’s meant to the world and, obviously, to America, you really see it now. This guy represented ultimate effort and success,” Robitaille said.

Robitaille recalled fondly the era when Kobe teamed with Shaquille O’Neal under Coach Phil Jackson to win three consecutive NBA titles between 2000 and 2002.

He also said Kobe lent his Midas touch to the Kings’ unprecedented success, which came shortly after Bryant helped the Lakers win two more championships alongside Pau Gasol in 2009 and 2010. The Kings won the franchise’s first Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014, with a trip to the conference finals in between.

“For the Kings, I still believe that he brought us some good luck when we had our Cup runs. He was coming to a lot of games and he would do videos for us,” Robitaille said. “He’s one of those guys who represents winning. The minute he put his stamp on helping us win, it seemed, all of a sudden we got two out of three.”

Indeed Bryant was a regular at Kings games, and his interest in hockey was not strictly local. The Athletic’s Tarik El-Bashir reported earlier this week that Kobe and Washington Capitals wing Alex Ovechkin – a man with a bit of his own “Mamba mentality” – became friends and sought each other out when possible. Bryant also took somewhat of a mentorship role with defenseman P.K. Subban during Subban’s time with the Nashville Predators. He used Bryant as a “sounding board” leading up to the 2017 Stanley Cup Final, according to El-Bashir’s report.

As basketball teams across the country have started games by taking eight-second and 24-second violations to honor Bryant in recent days, the Kings had an odd, coincidental parallel of sorts. Both No. 8, Drew 1173520 Los Angeles Kings It was obviously a great power play for us, did everything but score. I thought that was kind of a momentum shift in the game too, it goes either way. If they kill that off, they gain some momentum. We stuck with it, 5- on-5, we still found a way to score so obviously some relief from our JANUARY 29 POSTGAME QUOTES: TODD MCLELLAN, LIGHTNING power play. It hasn’t been going in lately, but to have one like that it gives you confidence – big part of the game so that was a big play for us.

JON ROSEN LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.30.2020 JANUARY 30, 2020

Todd McLellan, on whether this was a similar game to the teams’ previous meeting:

Yep. I think that’s a good way to sum it. We can’t complain a lot about the effort. We’re happy with the way we started with the game coming out of the break. I was really concerned whether we’d be able to get our engine going, especially against that team. We got it going. Didn’t get it to three when we had some really good chances, and that hurt us. Good teams make you pay for mistakes, and we made some tonight and they made us pay. I think on the pinch on the first goal, an emotional penalty that we probably shouldn’t have been involved in. A tremendous penalty kill, but it takes the life out of you – they scored about two seconds after – but an outstanding penalty kill, and a faceoff at the end. The linesman in that case, I don’t think you can cheat any more than they cheated, and he should’ve blown it down. He knows he should’ve blown it down. We talk about it, but they’ve got a hard job. So we move on. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the game.

McLellan, on communicating with video coaches Samson Lee and Derik Johnson on the disallowed goal:

Actually, that was a pretty simple one. It was really obvious. The rewound it, we looked on the bench right away. We knew we didn’t need extra angles or anything like that. In that case it’s Derek and Samson in the room. We’ve got a group up top that’s also watching it, and everybody has quick input. We get to see it on the bench, and tonight was a very simple, no-brainer. I think it took them only five or six seconds to figure it out and we moved on, so it was simple for everybody.

McLellan, on whether it’s frustrating to earn one point out of two good performances in the series:

Frustrating. It is, but there’s nothing we can do about it right now. We’ve just got to keep plugging away, and I sound like a broken record, and you guys are going to be sick of me at the end of the year saying that over and over and over again, and so will the players, but we have no choice but to plod on and try and fix this. In my opinion, we’re doing a pretty good job of it. We’re not winning games, and that’s what the goal of the game is is to come and win. We’re a little bit short. I think of our team, we didn’t make them pay for their mistakes, and they made us pay for ours, and that’s the difference between a 70, 75-point team or whatever they are right now, and our club. I don’t think they worked harder than us, I don’t think they were committed any greater than we were, I don’t think their game plan was any better than [ours], they just have the skill right now to make you pay, and for every three chances they get, they find a way to chip one in the net, and we need sis, whether it’s us keeping it out or putting it in. It just really sums it up that we’ve got some work to do roster-wise, talent-wise and team-wise.

Jon Cooper, on the pre-game ceremony:

It was, I said this earlier, not only the impact Kobe had on this city but what he’s had all over the globe and just to walk down here to Staples Center before the game and, gosh, the love that’s shown for him outside the arena. It just gives you time to reflect and sit there and understand how much he meant to this city. But, to be honest, it was a very tasteful tribute to him, but it was a weird first couple minutes of the game because there was just no emotion on either side. Once some bodies got banged it turned into a hockey game, but it was a very well done and tasteful tribute.

Victor Hedman, on Tampa Bay’s power play:

We were hungry to score a goal and Quick made some real saves and their group made some key blocks as well, but we moved the puck well. We got a shooting mentality between pucks and it took a little longer than two minutes, but we got that goal that I thought we deserved. I think kind of after that it was a more even game.

Steven Stamkos, on Tampa Bay’s power play: 1173521 Los Angeles Kings

GAME 51: LOS ANGELES VS TAMPA BAY

JON ROSEN

JANUARY 29, 2020

Los Angeles Kings 4, Tampa Bay Lightning 2

SOG: LAK – 34; TBL – 24

PP: LAK – 1/1; TBL – 0/2

First Period

1) LAK PPG – Tyler Toffoli (13) (Adrian Kempe, Anze Kopitar), 6:44

Second Period

2) LAK – Alex Iafallo (11) (Dustin Brown, Alec Martinez), 1:18

3) TBL – Tyler Johnson (12) (Ondrej Palat, Anthony Cirelli), 5:48

4) TBL – Steven Stamkos (21) (Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point), 11:58

Third Period

5) TBL – Erik Cernak (4) (Nikita Kucherov, Steven Stamkos), 4:13

6) TBL ENG – Steven Stamkos (22) (Brayden Point, Alex Killorn), 19:59

Los Angeles Kings (18-27-5) vs Tampa Bay Lightning (29-15-5)

Wednesday, January 29, 2020, 7:00 p.m. PT

Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA

Referees: #14 Trevor Hanson, #6 Francis Charron

Linesmen: #86 Jesse Marquis, #94 Bryan Pancich

NBCSN, NBC Sports App, KABC 790, LA Kings Audio Network

LAK starters: G Jonathan Quick, D Ben Hutton, D Matt Roy, LW Adrian Kempe, C Blake Lizotte, RW Austin Wagner

LAK scratches: D Drew Doughty, D Derek Forbort, F Matt Luff

TBL starters: G Andrei Vasilevskiy, D Victor Hedman, D Jan Rutta, LW Ondrej Palat, C Anthony Cirelli, RW Tyler Johnson

TBL scratches: D Luke Schenn, D Brayden Coburn

LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173522 Los Angeles Kings MacDermid-Roy The forwards should be accurate, but I’m not certain at all on the

defense, which rotated personnel more frequently. NO INDICATION DOUGHTY WILL PLAY; FORBORT OUT; RYAN, — Via TBLightning.com, the Bolts are expected to align with forward LIZOTTE BACK IN; LINEUPS groups of Stamkos-Point-Kucherov, Palat-Cirelli-Johnson, Killorn- Paquette-Maroon and Verhaeghe-Stephens-Gourde. Defensive pairings were Hedman-Rutta, McDonagh-Cernak and Sergachev-Shattenkirk. JON ROSEN Andrei Vasilevskiy, 4-2-0 in seven career games against Los Angeles with a 2.79 GAA and a .919 Sv%, is listed as the projected starter. JANUARY 29, 2020 Tampa returned to action with a 3-2 overtime loss at Dallas on Monday and will continue its four-game road segment with a Friday-Saturday back-to-back at Anaheim and San Jose. — INSIDERS. A fine Wednesday to you. The LA Kings face the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight at Staples Center (7:00 p.m. / NBCSN / NBC — It was shared when Lizotte was activated earlier this week that the Sports App / LA Kings Audio Network / AM 1150) in the first sporting Kings have been a puck-retrieving, forechecking, offensive zone-inclined event since the tragic deaths of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, Gianna, and line when he’s been flanked by Adrian Kempe and Austin Wagner. They seven others on Sunday. haven’t accounted for a surplus of offense, but their underlying numbers are all outstanding and provide a hint towards some unearthed If he doesn’t play, it’s the first regular season game he’ll miss since April production. From last Thursday: 14, 2014, the last of four games he’d sat out in the aftermath of a shoulder injury sustained when he made an awkward hit on San Jose’s Back to Lizotte, whose line was clicking at the time of his injury. Not Tyler Kennedy in Game #78 of the season. (Spoiler: It got dicey, but the necessarily Marcel Dionne, Dave Taylor and Charlie Simmer-clicking, but Kings emerged O.K. from the injury scare that spring.) He’s played in a clicking about as well as a 2019-20 LA Kings line could click. Which franchise-record 460 straight games, the fifth-longest active streak in the meant that they were dominant in their direction of play and scoring NHL and part of a stretch in which he’s played 659 out of a possible 660 chances, but not at all actual goal scoring. Via Money Puck, they rank regular season games. third in the league with a 64.4 xGF% and third in xGA/60 out of any forward line with a minimum of 100 minutes together. In line with the Should he miss Wednesday’s game, the team’s consecutive games team’s fourth-ranked raw 53.6% CF% and 31st-ranked 6.2% 5×5 Sh%, played leader would be Alex Iafallo with 132, followed by Anze Kopitar they’ve only combined for nine 5×5 goals and the Kings haven’t with 125. Kopitar held the franchise’s previous consecutive games outscored their opponents with any of the three on the ice at five-on-five streak, appearing in 330 straight games between March 21, 2007 and play. This translates to: Lizotte and Co. are emblematic of a Kings corps March 26, 2011. that is playing structurally sound, attacking hockey but are yet to be consistently rewarded. In case you hadn’t noticed! Derek Forbort, Matt Luff and Jack Campbell remained on the ice for extra work after the skate and aren’t expected to play tonight. Todd McLellan Austin Wagner described the nuances of their purpose and what has led has shared how the timing of the bye week and All-Star break didn’t work to the offensive zone time (which has come with slightly advantageous in Forbort’s favor as he worked hard to get back into playing shape and but largely honest zone starts). systems-oriented detail after missing training camp and the first 43 games of the season. Joakim Ryan (IR/knee) is expected to be activated Austin Wagner, on attacking nuances when skating with Blake Lizotte and should draw back into the lineup for the first time since December and Adrian Kempe: 27, while Blake Lizotte (groin), who hasn’t played since the 2-1 loss to I think when you look at our line we have a lot of speed and tenacity Dallas three weeks ago, will re-enter as well. between us three. Kemps and Lizzo are very, very skilled players and Ryan traveled on the previous road trip and was “really close” to a full that helps with our line getting offense. We have our individual jobs on recovery but didn’t get into a game. Todd McLellan indicated two games each line and we each know what we’re going to do, so for me, it’s into the five-game trip that his absence was essentially a coach’s forechecking, getting in on the puck first, and then being able to make the decision at that point, saying “I’m sure we could put him in” if the situation plays, obviously. That’s always there. The offense is clicking when we’re and need called for it. Ryan obviously felt the challenge of sitting out a there. Zone time is a big thing for us. When we get on the forecheck and road trip and then a bye week but also understood a wider margin for teams turn it over we’ve got to hang onto the puck for a couple minutes recovery provided by the extra time off. and try to make some plays and create some offense off of it. That’s what we were doing, so it’s just sticking with that. We haven’t been together in “A little blessing in disguise I didn’t play the last road trip,” he said. “It a little while here. … We’ll get back at it tonight. We’ve had a couple gives my knee more time to fully heal up, but we’ve had three good days good days of practice together, and we’re feeling good. of practice that I think helped whip all of us and I felt pretty good. I practiced yesterday and feel good today, so I’m just going to go out there Wagner, on watching video of what his line does or doesn’t do well: and give it my all tonight and see how it goes.” We watch our individual video after each game. Obviously, each of us is He’s liked the pace and intensity since the team reconvened on Sunday. watching their own shifts, but we’re together most of the time, so it’s like watching the line play and figuring out what we can do better and what “It’s been really good,” Ryan said. “Those first two days were kind of like we can’t. We’re learning that talking’s the easiest way to sort out anything a mini-training camp – just the intensity and length of the practices. We on the ice, so we’re getting better at that, and we’ve just got to keep were going pretty hard – a lot of skating and stuff – so it definitely helped getting better every game. get our wind back and our conditioning. It was tough at the time, but I think it’s really good for us.” — A few additional notes, Insiders. This is going to be an emotional night at Staples Center. It probably won’t matter much when the puck drops, Jonathan Quick, 6-4-2 with a 2.18 goals-against average, a .924 save but for some of us who’ve been going to Staples since 1999 and The percentage and a shutout in 13 career games against the Lightning, is Forum well before that, it might take a minute or two to find our balance expected to start in goal. amidst the locus of love, emotion and tributes that have overtaken L.A. Live and will overflow into Staples Center tonight. Fans are encouraged — With that covered, I’m projecting these lines and pairs tonight: to be in their seats by 6:30 p.m., at which point there will be a special Iafallo-Kopitar-Brown pre-game recognition of Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and the seven others who died in Sunday’s crash. More to come from downtown. Prokhorkin-Carter-Toffoli

Kempe-Lizotte-Wagner LA Kings Insider: LOADED: 01.30.2020 Clifford-Amadio-Lewis

Ryan-Martinez

Hutton-Walker 1173523 Montreal Canadiens As for being recognized by Canadiens fans everywhere he goes around town, Tatar said: “It’s a part of hockey. What are you playing it for? You’re playing it for people and as many people who can watch the better. So I’m trying to enjoy it and kind of filter the bad things out and Stu Cowan: Tomas Tatar remains a good fit with the Canadiens just want to focus on the game and enjoying it.

“It’s not as bad as you think,” he added. “People are very nice to me, so it’s very easy to go around. They’re really helpful. With the French STU COWAN, MONTREAL GAZETTE language, they try to help me out and I’m trying to pick up as much as I Updated: January 29, 2020 can. Like I said, I’m just really enjoying it.”

The city also reminds Tatar a bit of his hometown of Ilava, Slovakia.

I will never forget the first time I interviewed Tomas Tatar. “Montreal is like a European city,” he said. “Architecture, food-wise, people speaking French, it reminds me of Europe and my home, so it’s It was at the beginning of training camp last season, only four days after kind of nice.” the Canadiens had acquired Tatar from the Vegas Golden Knights as part of the Max Pacioretty trade. Tatar was sitting on the stage at the Bell The Canadiens are a good fit for Tatar and vice-versa. Sports Complex in Brossard that is used for coach Claude Julien’s news conferences. Tatar was wearing a Canadiens ball cap, a zip-up sweatshirt and shorts. Montreal Gazette LOADED: 01.30.2020 I couldn’t believe how muscular Tatar’s legs were and how fit he looked.

Tatar, who is 5-foot-10 and 183 pounds, turned 29 on Dec. 1, but he’s a very young-looking 29 both on and off the ice. He is only three goals away from his sixth straight 20-plus goal season and with 17 goals in 51 games is on pace for 28, one short of his career high set with the Detroit Red Wings in 2014-15. Tatar is also very durable, missing only three regular-season games over the last six seasons.

It’s for all those reasons that other teams will no doubt be calling Canadiens GM before the Feb. 24 NHL trade deadline inquiring about Tatar, who has one more season left on his four-year, US$21.2-million contract with a $5.3 million salary-cap hit.

It’s also for all those reasons that Bergevin shouldn’t be in a rush to trade Tatar, unless he can find another proven 20-plus goal scorer who can have the same chemistry on a line with Phillip Danault and Brendan Gallagher. One of the Canadiens’ biggest problems is that they don’t have enough players who can put the puck in the net on a consistent basis, so it makes sense to keep Tatar around unless Bergevin is made an offer he simply can’t refuse that includes more than just draft picks.

“To be honest, I don’t really listen to it,” Tatar said about trade rumours. “Those analysts, it’s their job. I think anything can happen. I guess at the end it’s always the decision with the general manager for Berg to make. But, to be honest, I’m still hoping we don’t have to have this conversation and we want to be still in the (playoff) hunt and hopefully before that trade deadline comes we will pick up as many points so that we’re still in the hunt.”

The Canadiens have a 22-22-7 record heading into Thursday’s game in Buffalo against the Sabres (7 p.m., TSN2, RDS, TSN 690 Radio, 98.5 FM) and their playoff hopes are all but gone. But Tatar has another year on his contract, so Bergevin shouldn’t be in a rush to trade the Canadiens’ leading scorer with 17-27-44 totals if he hopes to make the playoffs next season.

“I feel great,” Tatar said. “I’m fortunate, knock on wood, I didn’t have many injuries through my career. My body’s feeling great, so I think this could be the best time of my life from the strength and the experience you gain through the course of your career.

“Our whole line is working and we are clicking,” Tatar added. “Obviously, you want to contribute, so I’m very happy the puck is going in. It would be nice to hit 30 (goals) one day. I think now I’m the closest probably to that.”

Another thing Bergevin has to factor in is the fact Tatar really enjoys playing under the bright spotlight in Montreal — something many free agents haven’t been interested in experiencing.

“Personally, I feel great here,” Tatar said. “The city’s been very nice to me, the organization and same as the fans. They’ve been very supportive. I’m really enjoying it here.

“I’ve never seen such interest from people about hockey in media and everything,” added Tatar, who also experienced Hockeytown in Detroit for six seasons after being selected by the Red Wings in the second round (60th overall) of the 2009 NHL Draft. “I would say this is the top of the top and I’m really enjoying it.” 1173524 Montreal Canadiens Rookie Nick Suzuki practised on the same line as Kovalchuk Wednesday morning, along with Joel Armia. Suzuki was almost two months away from his second birthday when Kovalchuk was selected by the Atlanta Thrashers with the No. 1 overall pick at the 2001 NHL Draft. Canadiens Notebook: Brendan Gallagher looks ready to return “It’s really cool,” Suzuki said. “Just coming to the rink and seeing him and playing on the same line over the last couple of practices has been very cool. He’s been a great guy since he got here. Just trying to learn off STU COWAN, MONTREAL GAZETTE him.” Updated: January 29, 2020

Montreal Gazette LOADED: 01.30.2020 Brendan Gallagher could return to the Canadiens’ lineup Thursday night when they face the Sabres in Buffalo (7 p.m., TSN2, RDS, TSN 690 Radio, 98.5 FM), but Jonathan Drouin definitely won’t play.

Gallagher has missed 10 of the last 11 games since suffering a concussion but practised for the second straight day Wednesday in Brossard since being cleared for contact. Drouin, who hasn’t played since having wrist surgery on Nov. 18, also practised for the second straight day since being cleared for contact but isn’t ready to play yet.

When asked about Gallagher’s status, coach Claude Julien said: “We just finished practice today. I haven’t had the OK from the medical staff that he’s ready to play. He’s ready to practice, contact. If everything goes well and if he’s feeling good there’s a good chance you’ll see him tomorrow. It’s just that I haven’t been given that answer yet. That answer we’ll probably have later today or tomorrow morning. Once he wakes up if everything is good with him there’s a good chance we’ll see him.”

When asked if Drouin might be ready to play this weekend, when the Canadiens have back-to-back matinee games at the Bell Centre against the on Saturday and the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday, Julien said: “I don’t know. I don’t know where he is right now. He’s healed, but now it’s about how comfortable is he and whether he can tolerate the pain or where he’s restricted and all that stuff. A lot of it now is in his court because the injury has healed. But there’s some stiffness, there’s a lot of different things. That’s where we’re at with him, so I can’t give you a time frame to come back. I think a lot of it will depend on him.”

Paul Byron, who hasn’t played since having knee surgery on Nov. 19, skated by himself after practice Wednesday but there is no timetable yet for his return.

Flu bug hits Habs

Just as Gallagher and Drouin are getting close to returning, the Canadiens have now been hit with a flu bug.

Artturi Lehkonen and both missed practice Wednesday with the flu, while Shea Weber skipped practice for a rest day and Nate Thompson took a therapy day.

“It’s unfortunate in this situation that we’re in,” Julien said. “You wish everybody was healthy. But at this time of year, it seems like year after year you’re dealing with those flu bugs. You’re dealing with little injuries and nagging injuries and for some guys it’s getting a day off and being fresh the next day. That day off helps them with whatever the nagging injury is … it helps them heal a little bit. We’re just trying to get through these situations that every team goes through. So that’s where we’re at and, unfortunately, we’re in a desperate situation where you cross your fingers that everybody’s going to be ready to go.”

Kovalchuk fitting in well

Julien had high praise for Ilya Kovalchuk, who has 4-4-8 totals in nine games since signing with the Canadiens as a free agent. Kovalchuk is also plus-4 while averaging 19:47 of ice time and has 25 shots on goal.

“He’s played well,” Julien said about the 36-year-old Russian winger. “He’s done what he’s been advertised to do. I can’t stand here and say why it wasn’t working or why wasn’t he playing (with the Los Angeles Kings). I don’t know and that’s none of our business. But at the end of the day, we needed him. We went and got him. He’s doing exactly what he’s supposed to do. He’s skating well, he’s competing well. He’s got great energy and enthusiasm. I think the whole team is feeding off that.

“A fourth-liner scores for us, he’s on the bench just as excited as if it was him that scored the wining goal,” Julien added. “So he’s got all, I guess, the right approach and the attitude that we need for our hockey club and he’s producing. I mean, he’s almost a point a game, so that’s been a big help to us.” 1173525 Montreal Canadiens teammate’s time in Montreal and Chicago, where he was adored by fans during his first stint and continues to be in his second. As Gallagher recovers from the third diagnosed concussion of his career (the first came in major junior, the second during his rookie NHL season in 2013), Why Brendan Gallagher’s recovery from a concussion was far more he sees his buddy Shaw, who is at least at double that total and who has complicated than people think started viewing the future a little differently than he might have as a younger man.

“Shawzie has really accomplished everything you could accomplish as a By Marc Antoine Godin hockey player, and I think he’s taking the year off to get healthy, and I Jan 29, 2020 think that’s important for him,” Gallagher said. “If he decides to come back, that’s going to be a decision that he’s going to think about. If he decides not to, I think he can be really proud of the career that he’s had. But he loves the game, he loves being in the locker room and being When he woke up on the morning of Jan. 1, Brendan Gallagher felt good. around the guys and competing, and he was a teammate that everyone He had no recollection of the events that transpired the previous night, no respected. So whatever he decides, I think both ways regardless, I think memory of teammate Ben Chiarot’s knee accidentally smacking into the everyone’s gonna respect it and understand his decision.” side of his jaw as he fell to the ice. Now, it’s worth emphasizing that the Blackhawks have not ruled out the But at least he felt good. possibility of Shaw returning to play this season, and a league source told The Athletic that he still hopes to return before season’s end. That There was a time not so long ago when the mere fact a player woke up said, shouldn’t the current state of Shaw’s brain and his injury history writ free of any symptoms — well, other than the fact an entire day of large serve as a warning to Gallagher as he redoubles his efforts to Gallagher’s life had been wiped from his hard drive — would have been return? more than sufficient justification to clear him for the next game. The Canadiens forward hesitated for a moment before answering. Times have thankfully changed; “getting your bell rung” is no longer a thing, and the questions no longer stop at “are you good to go?” It was “You take everything and try to learn from everything,” he said. “At the obvious to everyone Gallagher had suffered a concussion and that he same time, my approach to these things is you put your trust in the would have to follow protocol before being cleared to play. This explains doctors and the professionals, you let it heal, and then once it’s healed, the four games Gallagher sat out following that New Year’s Eve collision you’re good to go. It’s tough to say, but going forward with this thing, I’m in Raleigh, N.C. still going to play the same way, I’m still going to try and come back from injuries, work in rehab and try to get back as quick as possible to help the But here’s the thing: Once a player has forthrightly described the team. I don’t think your mindset is going to change until it needs to.” symptoms he is experiencing (and in Gallagher’s case, they appear to have vanished just as quickly as they appeared), the medical team has Trusting the medical staff is what led Gallagher to seek out the trainers made that player follow each step required in a progressive return to full on the morning after the Edmonton game. He told them flat out he had an physical exertion and the player has received the all-clear, how much aching head. longer should he wait? If the player feels good and has successfully The Canadiens haven’t confirmed whether those headaches were the completed each stage of the return-to-play protocol, what benefit is there result of a second injury or a lingering remnant of the first. In any case, to waiting? If he’s deemed healthy, will taking more time necessarily they were treated as if they were one or both. Gallagher had to start the make him healthier? protocol again from square one. (In brief: wait until you are asymptomatic This is why Gallagher isn’t the least bit annoyed at the club or anyone before beginning to exercise; start with low-intensity gym workouts; if no else over the fact he experienced headaches right after he returned to symptoms manifest themselves, progress gradually to higher intensity, action on Jan. 9 against the Edmonton Oilers. etc.) It was frustrating, but given he felt perfectly healthy and ready to play against the Oilers, he was experiencing no symptoms and was “There were really no headaches or anything I was dealing with at all burning to put the uniform back on, he wouldn’t have done anything after the Carolina thing,” Gallagher said. “None of that was there. I differently. The simple fact is the first time through the customs line, he obviously suffered a concussion; I had some memory loss. I didn’t truthfully had nothing to declare. remember much of the Carolina day. But I woke up the next morning and really felt good. The symptoms didn’t really come until I played this game The second time was a different story. and then there were headaches.” “That’s one of those things where everyone followed the protocol,” As Gallagher tried to be scrupulous about starting the 2020 portion of the Gallagher said. “I went through the NHL concussion program and did season with his head screwed on straight, as it were, his phone pinged everything I needed to do. There’s just no test for a game-like with a text message from former teammate Andrew Shaw, now of the atmosphere, and you don’t know really what triggered it. Obviously, you Chicago Blackhawks. The 28-year-old veteran, who has placed his body don’t really get your heart rate up to what it’s like in a game. There’s a lot in the way of considerable peril pretty much constantly since arriving in of noise, there’s a lot of light, there’s a lot of emotion and adrenaline the NHL, has been sidelined since early December with a concussion. going through your body, and these things can trigger it. You can’t ride a test while you’re playing a game, but I went through the proper steps, Another one. and these guys did everything they needed to do to clear me.”

Leaving aside the rest of his career and counting just the three seasons The matter-of-fact acceptance of the risks associated with stepping on an Shaw spent in Montreal, the winger’s official tally was four injuries NHL rink and the visceral compulsion to get back into the lineup as involving concussion and post-concussion symptoms. quickly as possible will never be the players’ friends, at least as far as “He told me not to be stupid, not to come back too early,” Gallagher said. their health is concerned. That’s not to say something or perhaps many “I told him I wouldn’t, and then he texted me after the first time and he things have changed in recent years as scientific research and called me an idiot. It’s good to see that he hasn’t changed.” awareness campaigns have brought their weight to bear on outdated mentalities. Players have a stronger grasp of the long-term dangers of Among other things, the notion of coming back too early can involve concussions, and in Gallagher’s case, he simply has no interest in telling the doctors what they want to hear in order to nudge the light from coming back to play if there’s even the slightest doubt in his mind that red to green. Shaw learned the downsides of that tactic the hard way; he something is amiss. hid his symptoms after suffering a concussion in the 2016 playoffs. Those symptoms duly worsened after he fought Brendan Smith of the “I don’t want to play the game with fear,” he said. “If I play with fear, I New York Rangers, and it took months for him to recover. can’t be myself. And when I come back, I want to be able to do all the things that I’m always able to do for my teammates and for the team. You Basically, returning too soon implies thwarting the transparency doctors don’t want to have anything in the back of your mind that’s lingering.” depend on to help an athlete heal. Gallagher said his headaches were not completely gone until the Gallagher knows firsthand exactly how much Shaw sacrificed and beginning of the bye week. He returned home to British Columbia for the understands the extreme selflessness on display during his former break, allowing him to reassure his parents and get his mind off the grind of the season and his recovery.

He will return to the Canadiens’ lineup in the coming days — perhaps as early as Thursday in Buffalo — and will do so wearing a tinted visor, as he did on Jan. 9. He doesn’t know how long he will wear it. Maybe the rest of the season, maybe the rest of his career. But why?

Because when Gallagher had his last officially diagnosed concussion seven years ago, it left him with an increased sensitivity to bright light, which has never really gone away. In fact, it hits him at the beginning of each summer. But he insists the tinted visor is not evidence of some sort of attempt to mitigate lingering symptoms of a concussion that are being ignored.

At the outset of every season, medical staff around the NHL hands a health questionnaire to all players, asking them to describe physiological realities that have become part of their day-to-day life. They’re setting a baseline.

He’s not trying to hide anything.

He simply wanted to heal and get back to his job without any lingering doubts. Now that it is on the verge of happening, Brendan Gallagher aims to remain Brendan Gallagher. With his pedal to the floor.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173526 Nashville Predators

Predators, Tennessee State to announce joint effort to raise $1 million

Mike Organ, Nashville Tennessean

Published 2:07 p.m. CT Jan. 29, 2020 | Updated 3:30 p.m. CT Jan. 29, 2020

Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover and Predators President and CEO Sean Henry will announce a first-of-its-kind fundraising partnership on Thursday.

The two entities will team up to launch the "$1 Million in 1 Month” campaign – a historic goal that will combine TSU’s education mission with Predators fans during February, which is Black History Month.

A news conference officially announcing the initiative is scheduled for Thursday morning on TSU's campus.

This campaign will be the first of many initiatives between TSU and the Predators.

Additionally, the Predators will announce their home game Saturday against the Vegas Golden Knights will celebrate Historically Black College and Universities and Hockey Is For Everyone month as part of TSU Night.

Headlining TSU Night at Bridgestone Arena will be the New Direction Gospel Choir, which will perform the national anthem, and TSU's Aristocrat of Bands drum line, which will provide entertainment before and during the game.

Tennessean LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173527 Nashville Predators

Predators make up for mistakes, come back to beat Caps 5-4

Stephen Whyno, Associated Press

Published 6:00 a.m. CT Jan. 29, 2020 | Updated 9:41 p.m. CT Jan. 29, 2020

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Nashville Predators showed some promise amid a disappointing season by beating the Washington Capitals 5-4 Wednesday night in a weird game that featured a bad goaltender turnover and a worse own-goal.

Ryan Johansen tied it after a giveaway by Washington goalie Braden Holtby, and Yannick Weber scored the go-ahead goal with 4:37 left in the third period. Nashville moved within four points of the final playoff position in the Western Conference and improved to 4-4 under new coach John Hynes, who replaced Peter Laviolette earlier this month.

Predators goalie Juuse Saros made 29 saves to make up for handing the puck to Alex Ovechkin for his 693rd goal and compensating for teammate Nick Bonino shooting the puck off him and into their own net. Those blunders seemed to encapsulate what's going wrong with Nashville, which has struggled, especially without concussed defenseman .

Little-used defenseman Jarred Tinordi also scored his first NHL goal in his dad's old home arena. Former Capitals prospect Filip Forsberg had two assists to give him 15 points in 11 games against the team that drafted and traded him away.

Washington Capitals center Lars Eller (20) and Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) battle for the puck during the second period on Wednesday.

The game not only included mistakes by Saros and Bonino but a strange moment in the third when Richard Panik punched Johansen in the face while standing on the bench. Each player was sent to the penalty box.

The Capitals had their winning streak snapped at four despite Ovechkin's 35th of the season and a two-goal game from Panik, who was credited with one when Bonino shot the puck off Saros. Holtby allowed five goals on 24 shots and still has not won back-to-back starts since early December.

Ovechkin continued to climb the NHL's career goals list after honoring Kobe Bryant by wearing a No. 24 jersey during pregame warmups. Ovechkin went back to his usual No. 8 — Bryant's other number with the Los Angeles Lakers — and passed Steve Yzerman for sole possession of ninth place in league history.

Tennessean LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173528 Nashville Predators our best. We were inconsistent in different components of the game. We didn’t have a great game against the Rangers and then we didn’t have a great game obviously in Buffalo.

The Athletic Q&A: John Hynes reflects on his time in New Jersey and You’re more disappointed. Like after the Buffalo game, my focus wasn’t what it will be like to return with the Predators on that, on getting released. It was on we have to change the way we are doing things or what the process was. But it wasn’t so much like … there weren’t any inklings prior to where you’re thinking, “Yeah, this is something that could happen.” So it was a little bit surprising. By Corey Masisak When you look back on everything, was there anything you would have Jan 29, 2020 done differently? Any regrets?

I don’t necessarily say regrets. I think was it a tremendous learning WASHINGTON — Sometimes the NHL schedule doesn’t cooperate with experience I feel lucky to have gone through. I think that dealing with the best way to advance a narrative and properly hype a Thursday night Josh (Harris) and David (Blitzer) and the way they go about their game in January. business was something that was impressive to me. I learned a lot about why they’re highly successful guys and I was included in a lot. The John Hynes will return to Prudential Center to face the Devils a little less support that you have and the guidance from Ray (Shero) and (Tom than two months after the former New Jersey coach was fired. First, his Fitzgerald) and your coaching staff, it was really good with the new club, the Predators, have a game Wednesday night in Washington communication and the things we wanted to do. against the NHL-leading Capitals. I guess one thing possibly could be, maybe collectively as a group, after Hynes was let go Dec. 3 after a bad start to his fifth season in charge of what went on in the offseason, to managing the expectations better of the Devils. Nashville hired him Jan. 7, and the Predators are trying to where our team was at, is at, and moving forward collectively as a group. claw their way back into the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the sixth straight That’s something that is important to understand, particularly in this season. He had a contract through next season with the Devils, but business. signed a new one with the Predators that runs through the 2021-22 campaign. What are you most proud of and what will you remember most fondly?

Peter Laviolette coached the Predators to the postseason each of the I think the year that we made it to the playoffs — that was a special year. past five years, including a place in the Stanley Cup Final two years ago. The first year coming in, I was really proud of that team and thought we But the club was not meeting expectations, something Hynes was overachieved and played well. The second year was disappointing, but familiar with after this season in New Jersey began with a different we made a great trade to get (Taylor Hall). I just think, the way the team outlook thanks to an active offseason and several new high-profile played and came together and overcame adversity and ended up getting players on the roster. into the playoffs when none of that was expected … it was pretty special.

Hynes is returning to a face a different team and an altered organization. And I think we did build a good culture there. There’s good players there. Taylor Hall was traded two weeks after Hynes was fired. His former boss, It’s a good culture, good people and I think that Jersey is going to be general manager Ray Shero, was dismissed a week after he landed in successful. I think when you go through it and you look back and say, Nashville. The Predators are 3-4-0 since the change, and are currently “Did you do a job that you feel like it’s in a good place when you left?” It six points back of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. is.

Hynes spoke with The Athletic on Wednesday morning ahead of the How much have you been able to watch Alain Nasreddine and still try to game against the Capitals about his time with New Jersey, his root for your friend despite what happened? relationships with Shero and Devils interim coach Alain Nasreddine and He’s done a great job. The team has played well for him. I know players what it is going to be like standing behind the visiting bench at The Rock really respect him, and he earned that respect as an assistant. He played with his close friend and protege coaching against him. a big role when I was there. We were together for a long time. He started What was it like after leaving the Devils? Did you think something would from the guy that just got done playing and (had) zero coaching happen right away or were you thinking, “Maybe next year?” experience and became someone that could really take charge of the penalty kill, the defensive aspects of the game, run good meetings, run Right when it happens, there’s a couple weeks after … actually maybe it good practices. He had a lot of responsibility. He’s done a good job and was better being around the holidays because you’re kind of distracted he was prepared to do it. He was not overwhelmed by the job. I think and it’s kind of a fun time of year. Then you start to think about it and I that’s important as a head coach that you’re helping people advance. was kind of settling to say, “OK, I was going to do the world When they show they can do more, you give them more. It has been nice championships. I was going to coach the U.S. team at the worlds,” so to see. He handles his interviews well. The team has played well. I knew that was kind of my mindset — “OK, I’ll do that.” And I was probably they respected him and they’re playing hard for him. It’s good on the going to get in some ranks and do some scouting to get ready for that. players and it’s good for him. So that was going to keep me busy but then, yeah, I wasn’t sure what the next step was going to be. You didn’t have a lot of time between jobs, but did you have some moments to think about what you want to do the same and what you And then when this happened, it was so quick. It wasn’t like a normal want to do differently at your next stop? process where you interview and go out, then come back. It’s a quicker process. It was really like 24 hours, so it was kind of shocking. Then you Yeah. I think one of the big things is really communicating with the staff. go from that to, like, gone, and you just pack bags and go (to Nashville). How should I say this, because I do delegate for sure, but it’s just … I It has been good. It’s been exciting, certainly. But the plan was probably think sometimes you can take on too much as a head coach. Sometimes to focus on what could happen next year. when it doesn’t go well or it’s not going well, you try to do too much. There are times where you have to sit back and not get too hung up on Are you still going to coach at the worlds if the Predators don’t make the decisions or lineup decisions. It’s an experience for me when I look back playoffs? and understand that you have to make decisions, but you can’t overthink some things. You have to allow the assistant coaches to do more No. It’s been a whirlwind coming here. Hopefully we’re going to fight right sometimes as opposed to … my personality is you want to do well and till the end here and get in. I just think, with moving from Jersey and with you’re driven and you want to help. Sometimes I think it’s important to this, yeah, I talked to USA Hockey and they totally understood. take a step back as a leader. Some times you need to tighten the screws I covered one coaching change in Washington and the GM (George or loosen the screws, but there are also times to just let it ride. I think McPhee) said the coach (Glen Hanlon) told him he knew it was time the experience comes with that. day before he was let go. Did you ever have any feelings like that in New What are you going to remember about your relationship with Ray? Jersey? Fantastic. I worked with him for 11 years. He gave me a chance in It was not necessarily thinking “the time might be done,” but things had to Pittsburgh to get into pro hockey. He’s a man of his word, a great mentor. change. Whether it was the results or the inconsistencies of how we were It’s funny — the day it happened, I didn’t talk to him from then until the playing, as a coach you’re accountable for that, too. We hadn’t played day I got this job, which was weird. But he gave me my start. He’s a great person, a great mentor. I hope it’s not the last time we work together. The hockey world is a small world. He’s been great. Everyone has to do different things and make different decisions. Coaches have different pressures and different situations than the general managers, but he’s always been honest with me. He’s a good friend and is always going to be. Our relationship isn’t going to change.

What has this new challenge been like?

It’s been a bit of a whirlwind in the sense that, when you come in midseason you’re kind of coming in by yourself. So you’re getting to know a new team, a whole new staff, new general manager, new city. You’re kind of by yourself where you’re implementing some of the things you want to do but it’s also a feeling out process with what you’re doing. It’s been great. The staff has been excellent. David (Poile) is fantastic to work with. He communicates so well, is so organized, has a clear plan. The players have been great. It’s a different type of team. I think it is the second-oldest team in the NHL, but I think my experience in New Jersey helps with that, too. Nashville’s been great. The team has been good. The players have been great to work with, so it’s been exciting. But every day you have butterflies.

Last thing … what is tomorrow night going go to be like?

I don’t know. I have thought about (that) a little bit, but when I do I try not to. It’s the first time I’ve ever gone through something like it. Maybe a little bittersweet, I guess? I don’t know. I loved my time here. I loved the people there, the people working at the arena, the security guards, media, people in the offices. The Devils are a great organization with great people.

So I don’t know. I don’t know how I’ll feel. I do miss it for sure.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173529 Nashville Predators Before Monday’s game, Ekholm considered the job facing Josi, even though it’s not all Josi’s. The injured Ellis was named associate captain when Josi got the “C” in 2017, and Ekholm, Johansen and Forsberg were named alternate captains. Rexrode: Roman Josi is the right leader, even if the Predators are all kinds of wrong these days “Leadership’s a hard thing,” Ekholm said. “It really is. You’ve got to kind of feel the vibe in the room, feel the spots here and there where it’s really time to have a conversation about stuff. But for now, I just want to look forward and try not to have any meetings.” By Joe Rexrode That night, after the loss to the Maple Leafs, Josi conducted a players Jan 29, 2020 meeting in the locker room. And after everyone but two team staffers and one reporter was gone from the room, Josi stood there and considered this question: Is captaining this team the hardest job he’s had in this The Nashville Predators are unwatchable too often, Monday at game? Bridgestone Arena the latest example, a team coming off a break and an encouraging win over Buffalo and responding with a listless 5-2 loss to “Um, yeah, I mean definitely,” Josi said. “As a captain, I take a lot of pride Toronto. in the team winning, and when it’s not going your way as a team you take a lot of responsibility as a captain. You’re trying to change it and, yeah, A lot of the same guys who used to inspire and thrill this town are losing I’ve definitely taken a lot of responsibility. It’s always easy for everyone it. The remaining skaters from a core group that reached the 2017 on the team when you’re winning.” Stanley Cup Final made a collective $29 million that year. They’re close to $43 million this year, anchoring a soft, adversity-allergic, last-place Have there been more private conversations this season, trying to reach team. certain people?

That’s Ryan Johansen, Filip Forsberg, Viktor Arvidsson, Roman Josi, “Yeah,” he said. “I mean, we’re all, like, we all want to change it in here. Ryan Ellis, Mattias Ekholm, Craig Smith, Calle Jarnkrok, Colton Sissons There’s a lot of stuff going on in here, in the room internally, that we’re and Austin Watson. All great stories then, a lot of confounding ones now. doing to change this around. I mean, I still have a lot of confidence in this Add Mikael Granlund and Kyle Turris to Johansen and Arvidsson, and team, and all the guys want to win in here. So there’s a lot of things we’re you’ve got four forwards on pace for the lowest full-season production of doing to change it around, but we’ve got to make it happen quick here.” their respective careers. That’s the problem. That second question for Josi was the result of an extensive answer Well, that and the fact Matt Duchene hasn’t yet set the ice ablaze with his earlier in the day from Hynes, about Josi. Quickly, Hynes has learned he play. And the fact the Predators miss P.K. Subban, in particular his can lean on Josi on the ice — he’s having a Norris-worthy season — and refusal to pout or meekly take it when an opponent made a push. And all off it. the mistakes and one-second focus vacations in the defensive zone, “I know he’s had some one-on-one conversations with certain players perhaps the product of some players thinking about their lagging about them needing to up their game and buy-in and do certain things,” production on the other end of the ice. And goaltenders who aren’t bailing Hynes said of Josi. “And I think you see the way he plays on the ice, he everyone out as much as they used to, which can’t be easy when they’re cares. But sometimes you don’t see the things behind the scenes with compromised so much more often. And awful special teams. And the guys like him. Caring, great teammate, wants discipline, wants coaching, though that’s been changed. And all the money everyone is accountability, and he wants to see this go in the right direction, and he’s making. And all the extra money fans are paying to sit in Bridgestone and willing to do anything. … I think in the olden days sometimes yelling and make a lot less noise. And the fact so many of these guys are married screaming or calling guys out sometimes was the way to do it. But I think with young children now. Or the fact some still aren’t. every captain has to lead to his personality, no different than a coach.” It’s all fair when a team is playing this far below its talent level, when Josi’s personality is friendly, gentle. The only yelling or screaming that expectations and prices go one way and performance goes the other. seems possible from him would be in an upbeat song from the New coach John Hynes already has isolated Johansen as a component international boy band that he clearly must front under a different name in need of repair, putting him on a line Monday with Watson and each offseason. And this is why some might look at him and this team’s Jarnkrok, giving him just 10 minutes and 28 seconds of ice time and performance and gather that he isn’t tough enough as a captain. Never saying of that: “With players, if they want to play more, they’ve got to play mind that he captained a Presidents’ Trophy winner two years ago. good.” Never mind that captains slamming teammates into lockers is about as It’s hard to argue with this one. Johansen at his best — a true power relevant to hockey today as Rob Lowe with a mullet. forward with extraordinary playmaking feel — and the guy who was “I think Jos does a great job. If he needs to talk to someone he’s not skating around Monday don’t much resemble each other. It’s also afraid to do it,” Hynes said. “He’ll take a guy to coffee, go to lunch, he’ll important to point out that several individuals on this team must push do it in a way that … if you know your teammates, know your players as back against whatever is limiting them for the group to have the a coach, you have to find ways to hold them accountable. But the “pushback” that is a necessary part of every hockey game and book of reaction from that conversation has to be done the right way. And some hockey clichés. Hynes used the term “mental fortitude” Monday night, guys you can yell at and be hard on. Some guys, it has to be one-on-one. and GM called it the need to “stay in the fight longer” in a Some guys, you need to poke and prod in different ways, and that’s Tuesday interview on 102.5-FM in Nashville. something I’d like to come in and help Jos with that. One of the big things Teams with chemistry produce that, among other ethereal assets. This in our game, too, everybody talks about leadership. These guys are team should have that chemistry. There are too many players who have fantastic players, but some guys don’t know how to lead; they’ve just been through too much, together, for it to be absent. been excellent players, they do the right thing, but it’s about being able to talk to your teammates, talk in public, when to say the right things, what’s “You can lose games and still play pretty well, and some games you’re the right time to be able to stand up in front of the room so it doesn’t go gonna play pretty shitty but still win,” Ekholm said. “It’s those games on deaf ears? And I think that’s the responsibility of the coaching staff, where there’s a lack of effort or we all can see that the team’s not really too, to guide your leaders to help them understand how to do it and set there, there’s always gonna be conversations about that, and frustration. them up with situations where they can.” We’re in a different spot, too. If you have three or four rookies on the team, then it’s more a learning process. But we’re a pretty veteran group Josi will naturally be compared with his predecessors, Mike Fisher and in here, everyone’s been in the league for a bit. So it’s more of us trying Shea Weber. He is a finesse player, an effective one, at times a to find our way, trying to find the confidence, the swagger, so to speak.” spectacular one. He’ll mix it up, too. But those guys were grimier players, Fisher a deer-hunting center and Weber an imposing, mountainous Hard work would seem to be an answer. Hitting someone every once in a defenseman. Thing is, their personalities and approaches as captains while? Worth a try. And it’s up to Hynes and one of the few players on aren’t as different as outside appearances would suggest. this team who is doing his part — and then some — to figure out how to get more out of certain people and put it all together. “All three of them are actually very calm,” Ekholm said. “They know who they are and what they stand for, and they don’t really care about that One thing that should not be questioned in all this is the “C” on Josi’s outside noise. All of them are great at focusing on us in here. Always chest. honest. Always straight with you. That’s the most important thing in a captain and leader; you’ve got to show up every night and lead by example, and I think all three of those guys are great examples of that.”

If you set a tone with your approach every day, produce at a high level even after being paid — Josi just signed an extension that will take him from $4 million to $9.06 million next year — and have genuine relationships with teammates, you can be a captain. You don’t need to glower or berate.

“It’s not about talking a lot,” said Rocco Grimaldi, another member of this team whose desire to win is apparent every night. “It’s about guys who show it, that’s who I want to follow.”

It’s also true that the Preds are a mess. That’s a lot of nice words about the captain of one of the most frustrating teams in the NHL. Obviously, there are limitations that come with the position.

And there’s a trade deadline coming up and some real intrigue over whether Poile will be buying, selling or continuing to wait for this team to be what it should be. For as grim as things might seem after a performance like Monday’s, with the Preds in last place in the Central Division entering Wednesday’s game at Washington, there are 34 games left. That’s enough time to get safely into the playoff picture. That’s enough time to earn home ice for the first round. The Predators making the postseason and making a run is much less laughable at this point than the Tennessee Titans reaching the AFC Championship Game when they were 2-4 with no offense in October.

But until we see something different, the Predators are more likely to keep receding when things go wrong, floundering, frustrating and leaving the home fans to shuffle out quietly onto Broadway. A lot of individuals need to respond and create collective momentum. Josi has been trying to reach some of them. This season does not need a “C” on a different sweater. It needs CPR.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173530 New Jersey Devils

How Alain Nasreddine’s relationship with ex-Devils coach John Hynes has evolved since change

Posted Jan 29, 2020

By Chris Ryan

For nearly 10 years, Alain Nasreddine could turn to his side behind the bench, and he would see John Hynes standing there, running the show.

When Nasreddine turns to his left on Thursday, he’ll see Hynes again, just a little bit farther down, coaching the Nashville Predators behind the visitors’ when they play Nasreddine’s Devils at Prudential Center in Newark.

Nasreddine broke into coaching under Hynes in the AHL, and he stayed by his side all the way to the NHL level before Hynes was fired by the Devils in December, leading to Nasreddine’s promotion to interim head coach.

While Hynes and Nasreddine don’t see each other on a daily basis anymore, the two still have regular talks.

“We’ve been in contact throughout, but obviously a lot more after he got the job (in Nashville)," Nasreddine told NJ Advance Media. “A lot of texting, even calls to each other, and we got a chance to see each other during the (bye week). So it was great to get in touch with him, share some thoughts, and, again, he offered all the help that he could offer. I’m extremely grateful and obviously it goes both ways. Not that I have a lot to teach him, but sometimes just like I was as the assistant coach trying to help him.”

The two met up in New Jersey while the Devils and Predators were both on their bye weeks last week. The conversations involved plenty of hockey, but they also featured talk about life away from the rink.

Hynes’ and Nasreddine’s families also became close during the coaches’ years working together, but that dinner was just between the two NHL head coaches.

Hynes’ official return to New Jersey on Thursday will be a quick one. The Predators play on Wednesday night against the Washington Capitals before making the quick trip to Newark. The team will depart after the game on Thursday.

Nasreddine has tried to maintain a short-term focus and hasn’t put a ton of thought into facing off against his old mentor. When the puck does drop, he expects it to be like any other night in the NHL.

“As far as the game, we put everything aside and try not to focus on it to be honest and not think about it,” Nasreddine said. "Just try to look at it as just another game. I know it’s easier said than done, but that’s the approach I want to have.”

Star Ledger LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173531 New Jersey Devils

NHL trade rumors: Devils’ Kyle Palmieri hasn’t had talks about his future, but his focus remains on N.J.

Updated Jan 29, 2020; Posted Jan 29, 2020

By Chris Ryan

As Devils interim general manager Tom Fitzgerald and his staff started preparing for their next steps leading to the NHL trade deadline on Feb. 24, the group has met with the team’s pending free agents, plus veterans Andy Greene and Travis Zajac.

However, Fitzgerald has not had any of those talks with forward Kyle Palmieri, who has also been at the center of trade rumors in recent weeks.

“No I haven’t had any conversations like that, and like I said, it’s outside this room and this building," Palmieri told NJ Advance Media. "You can’t control much of what’s said, but right now I’m happy to be here and I love the guys in this room and and playing for New Jersey.”

However, Palmieri is in a drastically different spot than Greene and Zajac. Greene and Zajac both have full no-trade clauses in their contracts, so they would have to be directly involved in any potential deal made by the Devils. Zajac has already turned down a potential trade and wants to stay in New Jersey.

Greene hasn’t been asked either way if he would be willing to waive his no-trade clause, but he has had some preliminary discussions about his future since he can be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

In Palmieri’s case, he’s only got an eight-team no-trade clause in his current contract. He and his agent submitted that list to the Devils in the summer, and team would need to get his approval if they tried to swing a deal with one of those teams. If Fitzgerald wanted to make a move with one of the other 22 teams, he could just do it without input from Palmieri.

Palmieri also has one year left on his contract before he’s eligible to become an unrestricted free agent in 2021. The Devils wouldn’t be able to start negotiating a contract extension until July 1, 2020, so that route remains on the table for both sides. They just can’t formally talk about it yet.

Palmieri also got hurt the day before the Devils fired GM Ray Shero and promoted Fitzgerald to interim GM, so there hasn’t been much of an opportunity to have discussions. He met with Fitzgerald briefly to discuss dropping out of the All-Star Game due to his injury, but that was all that was discussed. Fitzgerald and management was on the road with the Devils until the bye week, and Sunday was the first time Palmieri was back in the same building as them.

“Right now, there’s just rumors. You can’t control what’s said on Twitter or what’s written, but I think right now I’m happy here," Palmieri said. "I’m looking forward to building some momentum heading into the next couple of months here and, and I’m looking forward to that.”

Star Ledger LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173532 New Jersey Devils But there was no way Hynes was going to let his friend turn down this opportunity. Hynes may not have guessed that this would be how it happened, but he always knew Nasreddine would move on to a head coaching position without him someday. 'Did this just happen?': Former Devils coach John Hynes reflects on the end, looks ahead “I knew when I talked to Ray,” Hynes said, recalling the conversation. “When he released me he said, ‘I’m going to have Nas be the interim coach.’ And I called him right away. I said, ‘I just got released, and you're going to be their coach. And you have to take it.’ It's a great opportunity, Abbey Mastracco, NHL writer well-deserved, and he has to take the job. And has done a really good Published 4:49 p.m. ET Jan. 29, 2020 | Updated 5:21 p.m. ET Jan. 29, job.’ 2020 Hynes had given Nasreddine a measure of freedom as an assistant. The former defensemen coach ran the penalty kill and thus was able to run his own meetings, forging a bond with his current players. WASHINGTON — There was a point in time in the month of December when an NHL coach was thinking more about basketball than hockey. He “He was prepared for it,” Hynes said. “He played a big role and ran a lot replaced hockey rinks and the Rock with basketball gyms around the of meetings with the penalty kill and a lot of defensive aspects of the area, attending up to three girls games a day on weekends and even game. He communicates well and he's going to have to have the respect driving the carpool. of the players. So it's not surprising though.”

John Hynes was settling into life at home after he was unceremoniously Personal feelings have to be pushed aside in professional sports, and dismissed from his position as head coach of the New Jersey Devils on that included his feelings about Shero, who gave Hynes and Nasreddine Dec. 3. Family members came into town around the holidays and Hynes their first pro jobs when he was the GM of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He and his wife, Sarah, took their three daughters to Universal Studios in handpicked Hynes to lead the Devils into a new era. It was his ability to Orlando for Christmas. develop and motivate players that led him to believe he was the right person to guide the team through the rebuilding process. "The first couple weeks you kind of just, you just disconnect to go through a wave of emotions," Hynes said Wednesday at Capital One Arena, as “You feel like you let them down a little bit,” Hynes said. “There’s a the Predators were getting set to face the Washington Capitals. "Relief reason why they have to make the decision. And I know it was hard for and not relief, anger and then not anger." him. It wasn’t like it was an easy decision. It was something he felt he had to do.” He was only beginning to think about getting back on the ice with USA Hockey after the calendar turned to 2020. Shero’s own dismissal just hours before a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Jan. 12, came without warning or without reasoning. The And then suddenly he found himself on a plane to Nashville and it hit him longtime NHL executive has yet to surface with his own thoughts about that he was back to work behind an NHL bench as the coach of the the situation but he has been in touch with Hynes. Predators, just 36 days after being relieved of his duties in Newark. SHERO: In Devils' GM search, will one of these candidates replace Ray “It happened in 24 hours. It was really fast,” he said. “It went through, and Shero? then when I was on the plane going out to Nashville, I was like, ‘Did this just happen?’” There are no hard feelings between the two, regardless of either party’s employment status. Those who knew him weren’t surprised by how quickly he was back in business. Though Hynes had only had one previous NHL job, he had “I worked with Ray for 11 years and it's just a part of the business, garnered enough respect throughout the league in his four and a half unfortunately,” he said. “There are reasons why general managers have seasons at the helm of the Devils that it seemed like a forgone to make the decisions, whether it's ownership GMs or coaches, they conclusion the minute Nashville general manager David Poile fired Peter have to make decisions. But he’s always handled it with class. It just is Laviolette. what it is, but our relationship is strong.

He didn’t have much time to think about anything, he just went in and “I've talked to him since he was relieved of his duties, and we're all coached. good.”

And it’s been such a whirlwind month that he hasn’t had much time to What he accomplished think about what comes Thursday when he returns to the Garden State Hynes wasn’t quite able to fully restore a once-great organization to for the first time when Devils host the Predators. prominence but he did what he could with what he was given and had “I've never experienced that,” Hynes said. “I haven't been back there some success. He changed the culture there and that’s not an easy thing since everything went down. So yeah, I think it'll be a little… I’m not sure to do. He had bad teams playing hard by motivating players young and what to expect.” old.

To say it’s been a turbulent season in New Jersey would be an Then, the team finally had a superstar again. And that superstar helped understatement. The club experienced some exceptionally high highs the Devils return to the playoffs in 2018 after six seasons of long over the summer and some ultra-low lows once the season began as the summers. product on the ice failed to match the preseason expectations. The Taylor Hall, went on to win the Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable Devils found new and creative ways to blow leads and lose games player and credited the coach for helping him with the achievement. nightly and Hynes was dismissed following two particularly embarrassing ones at home against the Rangers and in Buffalo. Looking back now, it’s remarkable that the 2017-18 Devils did what they did with that roster. Hynes is proud of a lot of things he did in New There was no way the Devils could keep Hynes after a 7-1 throttling at Jersey, but it’s that season and what Hall accomplished that season that the hands of the Sabres. The team was scheduled to face the Vegas stands out as the peak. Golden Knights at Prudential Center one night later and fans would have burned the place down had Hynes been behind the bench. “The year we made the playoffs and Hallsy had the MVP year,” Hynes said when asked what he was most proud of accomplishing in New Then-GM Ray Shero replaced Hynes with his longtime assistant coach, Jersey. “Having the opportunity to coach a player like him and see him Alain Nasreddine. The move was shocking and a little stinging. become an elite, elite guy and being able to drive a team and basically Nasreddine had been his top lieutenant for a decade, dating back to their overachieve a bit to be able to get in.” days with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the American Hockey League. The duo began their professional coaching careers side-by-side and naturally, What went wrong? Hynes brought Nasreddine with him after his NHL promotion. Then came the valley. And it sure was steep. The former journeyman defenseman and his wife, Josiane, as well as their three children, considered Hynes, Sarah and their daughters like Hall was injured and so were a slew of others on a roster that did not family. How could he take over for one of his best friends? have nearly enough depth to be able to withstand the injuries. The goaltending situation eroded quickly. The team traded Keith Kinkaid, the guy who backstopped the Devils to the playoffs, at the deadline last season. is still struggling to return to his old form after years of injuries.

The two are now currently in the American Hockey League, with Schneider in Binghamton with the Devils and Kinkaid in Laval with the Montreal Canadiens’ organization.

Hall was traded to the Arizona Coyotes, the next domino to fall after Hynes was fired. Hynes never made any attempts to sway him to stay, save for one meeting over the summer, preferring to let his players make their own decisions.

“I met with him this summer. We talked a little bit about some things but when he came back for the season, it wasn't about his contract,” Hynes said. “That’s Ray and his agent. For me, it’s just the coach and the player.”

Would it have made a difference if he had tried to campaign for New Jersey? Hall was very high on Hynes, after all, but who knows.

It’s too late now. Everyone is moving forward.

Hynes returned to New Jersey during the Predators’ bye week. He resumed his place as a basketball dad and he met up with his old friend Nasreddine for lunch. They talked about their respective hockey teams and the challenges each are facing.

They didn’t talk much about Hynes’ Thursday homecoming, but it was brought up.

“We both said, ‘I want you to do really well except that day,’” Hynes joked.

Few, if any, saw this coming when the Devils started the season. The excitement level was sky-high after the team added Jack Hughes, P.K. Subban, Nikita Gusev and Wayne Simmonds in the offseason and had a healthy Hall returning.

Hynes helped the Devils bridge a gap. He was an important hire in the grand scheme of things and while it might be tough to see the forest through the trees for Devils’ diehards right now, there’s no question he, Shero and Hall left the place in better shape than they found it.

Progress has been made for all involved and is still being made.

“I think we left it in a good place,” Hynes said. “There are a lot of good young players there and a strong culture. I think Jersey is going to be very good in the near future.”

Bergen Record LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173533 New Jersey Devils our best. We were inconsistent in different components of the game. We didn’t have a great game against the Rangers and then we didn’t have a great game obviously in Buffalo.

The Athletic Q&A: John Hynes reflects on his time in New Jersey and You’re more disappointed. Like after the Buffalo game, my focus wasn’t what it will be like to return with the Predators on that, on getting released. It was on we have to change the way we are doing things or what the process was. But it wasn’t so much like … there weren’t any inklings prior to where you’re thinking, “Yeah, this is something that could happen.” So it was a little bit surprising. By Corey Masisak When you look back on everything, was there anything you would have Jan 29, 2020 done differently? Any regrets?

I don’t necessarily say regrets. I think was it a tremendous learning WASHINGTON — Sometimes the NHL schedule doesn’t cooperate with experience I feel lucky to have gone through. I think that dealing with the best way to advance a narrative and properly hype a Thursday night Josh (Harris) and David (Blitzer) and the way they go about their game in January. business was something that was impressive to me. I learned a lot about why they’re highly successful guys and I was included in a lot. The John Hynes will return to Prudential Center to face the Devils a little less support that you have and the guidance from Ray (Shero) and (Tom than two months after the former New Jersey coach was fired. First, his Fitzgerald) and your coaching staff, it was really good with the new club, the Predators, have a game Wednesday night in Washington communication and the things we wanted to do. against the NHL-leading Capitals. I guess one thing possibly could be, maybe collectively as a group, after Hynes was let go Dec. 3 after a bad start to his fifth season in charge of what went on in the offseason, to managing the expectations better of the Devils. Nashville hired him Jan. 7, and the Predators are trying to where our team was at, is at, and moving forward collectively as a group. claw their way back into the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the sixth straight That’s something that is important to understand, particularly in this season. He had a contract through next season with the Devils, but business. signed a new one with the Predators that runs through the 2021-22 campaign. What are you most proud of and what will you remember most fondly?

Peter Laviolette coached the Predators to the postseason each of the I think the year that we made it to the playoffs — that was a special year. past five years, including a place in the Stanley Cup Final two years ago. The first year coming in, I was really proud of that team and thought we But the club was not meeting expectations, something Hynes was overachieved and played well. The second year was disappointing, but familiar with after this season in New Jersey began with a different we made a great trade to get (Taylor Hall). I just think, the way the team outlook thanks to an active offseason and several new high-profile played and came together and overcame adversity and ended up getting players on the roster. into the playoffs when none of that was expected … it was pretty special.

Hynes is returning to a face a different team and an altered organization. And I think we did build a good culture there. There’s good players there. Taylor Hall was traded two weeks after Hynes was fired. His former boss, It’s a good culture, good people and I think that Jersey is going to be general manager Ray Shero, was dismissed a week after he landed in successful. I think when you go through it and you look back and say, Nashville. The Predators are 3-4-0 since the change, and are currently “Did you do a job that you feel like it’s in a good place when you left?” It six points back of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. is.

Hynes spoke with The Athletic on Wednesday morning ahead of the How much have you been able to watch Alain Nasreddine and still try to game against the Capitals about his time with New Jersey, his root for your friend despite what happened? relationships with Shero and Devils interim coach Alain Nasreddine and He’s done a great job. The team has played well for him. I know players what it is going to be like standing behind the visiting bench at The Rock really respect him, and he earned that respect as an assistant. He played with his close friend and protege coaching against him. a big role when I was there. We were together for a long time. He started What was it like after leaving the Devils? Did you think something would from the guy that just got done playing and (had) zero coaching happen right away or were you thinking, “Maybe next year?” experience and became someone that could really take charge of the penalty kill, the defensive aspects of the game, run good meetings, run Right when it happens, there’s a couple weeks after … actually maybe it good practices. He had a lot of responsibility. He’s done a good job and was better being around the holidays because you’re kind of distracted he was prepared to do it. He was not overwhelmed by the job. I think and it’s kind of a fun time of year. Then you start to think about it and I that’s important as a head coach that you’re helping people advance. was kind of settling to say, “OK, I was going to do the world When they show they can do more, you give them more. It has been nice championships. I was going to coach the U.S. team at the worlds,” so to see. He handles his interviews well. The team has played well. I knew that was kind of my mindset — “OK, I’ll do that.” And I was probably they respected him and they’re playing hard for him. It’s good on the going to get in some ranks and do some scouting to get ready for that. players and it’s good for him. So that was going to keep me busy but then, yeah, I wasn’t sure what the next step was going to be. You didn’t have a lot of time between jobs, but did you have some moments to think about what you want to do the same and what you And then when this happened, it was so quick. It wasn’t like a normal want to do differently at your next stop? process where you interview and go out, then come back. It’s a quicker process. It was really like 24 hours, so it was kind of shocking. Then you Yeah. I think one of the big things is really communicating with the staff. go from that to, like, gone, and you just pack bags and go (to Nashville). How should I say this, because I do delegate for sure, but it’s just … I It has been good. It’s been exciting, certainly. But the plan was probably think sometimes you can take on too much as a head coach. Sometimes to focus on what could happen next year. when it doesn’t go well or it’s not going well, you try to do too much. There are times where you have to sit back and not get too hung up on Are you still going to coach at the worlds if the Predators don’t make the decisions or lineup decisions. It’s an experience for me when I look back playoffs? and understand that you have to make decisions, but you can’t overthink some things. You have to allow the assistant coaches to do more No. It’s been a whirlwind coming here. Hopefully we’re going to fight right sometimes as opposed to … my personality is you want to do well and till the end here and get in. I just think, with moving from Jersey and with you’re driven and you want to help. Sometimes I think it’s important to this, yeah, I talked to USA Hockey and they totally understood. take a step back as a leader. Some times you need to tighten the screws I covered one coaching change in Washington and the GM (George or loosen the screws, but there are also times to just let it ride. I think McPhee) said the coach (Glen Hanlon) told him he knew it was time the experience comes with that. day before he was let go. Did you ever have any feelings like that in New What are you going to remember about your relationship with Ray? Jersey? Fantastic. I worked with him for 11 years. He gave me a chance in It was not necessarily thinking “the time might be done,” but things had to Pittsburgh to get into pro hockey. He’s a man of his word, a great mentor. change. Whether it was the results or the inconsistencies of how we were It’s funny — the day it happened, I didn’t talk to him from then until the playing, as a coach you’re accountable for that, too. We hadn’t played day I got this job, which was weird. But he gave me my start. He’s a great person, a great mentor. I hope it’s not the last time we work together. The hockey world is a small world. He’s been great. Everyone has to do different things and make different decisions. Coaches have different pressures and different situations than the general managers, but he’s always been honest with me. He’s a good friend and is always going to be. Our relationship isn’t going to change.

What has this new challenge been like?

It’s been a bit of a whirlwind in the sense that, when you come in midseason you’re kind of coming in by yourself. So you’re getting to know a new team, a whole new staff, new general manager, new city. You’re kind of by yourself where you’re implementing some of the things you want to do but it’s also a feeling out process with what you’re doing. It’s been great. The staff has been excellent. David (Poile) is fantastic to work with. He communicates so well, is so organized, has a clear plan. The players have been great. It’s a different type of team. I think it is the second-oldest team in the NHL, but I think my experience in New Jersey helps with that, too. Nashville’s been great. The team has been good. The players have been great to work with, so it’s been exciting. But every day you have butterflies.

Last thing … what is tomorrow night going go to be like?

I don’t know. I have thought about (that) a little bit, but when I do I try not to. It’s the first time I’ve ever gone through something like it. Maybe a little bittersweet, I guess? I don’t know. I loved my time here. I loved the people there, the people working at the arena, the security guards, media, people in the offices. The Devils are a great organization with great people.

So I don’t know. I don’t know how I’ll feel. I do miss it for sure.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173534 New York Islanders

Islanders player poll: The best chirper on the team ‘doesn’t spare anyone’

By Arthur Staple

Jan 29, 2020

In our quest to bring you as close to the players as possible, The Athletic conducted our annual NHL player poll. The aggregate results and anonymous answers to 10 questions were released last week.

Here on the Islanders beat, we added five team-specific questions that were a bit more lighthearted. Still anonymous so as to guarantee the most honest answers, we asked 22 Islanders players to pick a teammate who best fits each question and we’ve turned the answers into short stories complete with supporting quotes from various teammates and the winners themselves.

Today’s question: Who is the best chirper on the team?

The results:

Cal Clutterbuck — 18 votes

Leo Komarov — 2

Anders Lee — 1

Brock Nelson — 1

The closest to a unanimous vote in the entire poll, very few Islanders needed time to think about this one. Yet none of them would reveal Clutterbuck’s greatest hits on the ice, only to say that the best of his chirps aren’t suitable for publication — even on a site where R-rated words are allowed.

“It’s Clutter for sure, and no, I can’t tell you any,” one Islander said.

“There’s a line and he goes right up to it,” another said. “Well, sometimes he goes over the line. But he’s right around there. They’re just … they can be bad.”

Clutterbuck has been out since mid-December following surgery to repair a sliced tendon in his wrist, and team rules don’t allow interviews with injured players. So, we asked a few teammates on the record to at least tell us why Clutterbuck is the Don Rickles of the NHL.

“He remembers everything — every story, every rumor about a guy on another team,” Scott Mayfield said. “And he just files it away for when he needs something on the ice. And I think the reason people don’t think he’s cheap or anything is because he doesn’t just go after the big name guys, he’ll go after the other team’s tough guys too. He doesn’t spare anyone.”

“He’s got the vault and it’s just filled with stuff,” Johnny Boychuk said. “He doesn’t miss anything in the room. You could be having a conversation on the other side of the locker room about a guy on another team and he’ll go, ‘What’s that?’ He soaks everything up.”

“What he does that’s so smart is he’ll say stuff about himself first and that just takes away the other guy’s ammo,” Matt Martin said. “He’ll go, ‘Yeah, I know I’m a fourth-liner,’ or ‘I’ve only got two goals, so what?’ Then the guy just stands there with nothing to say and Clutter comes in with a line that just leaves everyone shaking their heads.”

Even if he were healthy and available to talk, it’s doubtful Clutterbuck would reveal his chirp secrets. We’ll just have to try reading lips.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173535 New York Rangers New York Post LOADED: 01.30.2020

Rangers’ prospect pool is filled with tantalizing talent

By Brett Cyrgalis

January 30, 2020 | 2:36am

The point of the rebuild was to stockpile assets, and that is exactly what the Rangers have done.

Far more than just what’s in the minors at AHL Hartford, the Blueshirts have players in the organization spread all over the world — from college hockey to juniors to the Swedish and Finnish leagues. Some are more important than others, obviously, but all have contributed to a farm system that is coloring how the front office is approaching the Feb. 24 trade deadline.

There will still be three goalies for Thursday’s practice when the big club emerges from its nine-day break that encompassed the All-Star game and the bye week. It’s going to continue being difficult for coach David Quinn to juggle playing (and practice) time for Henrik Lundqvist, Alex Georgiev and Igor Shesterkin, who went back to play two games for the Wolf Pack during the break and continued his excellence — three goals allowed on 62 shots while collecting two wins — before being recalled Wednesday.

But the Rangers also have Adam Huska, the UConn product and seventh-round pick — and you know how goalies from the seventh round have worked out for this club, right? Tyler Wall is also in the system, a sixth-rounder who is currently one of the best goalies in college at UMass-Lowell.

Is having five highly touted goalies a bad thing? No, not at all.

There is also a ton of depth on defense, which makes it palatable to think of the possibility of trading Tony DeAngelo, a pending restricted free agent who is lining up a huge payday with all the points he is accumulating (12 goals and 25 assists through 48 games, good for seventh among NHL defensemen). The club has already seen the NHL potential in Libor Hajek, who is trying to regain his form with the Wolf Pack following a knee injury that derailed his season on Dec. 5.

Yet almost every week there is another report of how well Nils Lundkvist is doing in the Swedish league, now with 22 points in 30 games as a 19- year-old. The first-round pick (No. 28 overall in 2018) could very well contend for a roster spot on the right side if he decides to come over next season. Matthew Robertson, the 2019 second-round pick (No. 49 overall) had himself a nice first training camp this fall, but suffered a knee injury before heading back to his junior team in Edmonton of the WHL — where he is excelling yet again.

Tarmo Reunanen also had a nice camp, but went back to his native Finland where the fourth-round pick is playing well for Lukko in that country’s top league. Yegor Rykov, a big piece of the trade that sent Michael Grabner to the Devils in 2018, is assimilating to North America with AHL Hartford and could very well be with the Rangers by the end of this season.

And arguably the most exciting defensive prospect is K’Andre Miller, who maybe didn’t have the best World Juniors tournament for Team USA — that turnover to Alexis Lafreniere against Canada is still haunting — but is one of the best players in college hockey at Wisconsin. The 2018 first- rounder (No. 22 overall) might have vied for a roster spot this season if he didn’t choose to go back to school for his sophomore year. The 6-foot- 5, 200-pounder could very well be on the opening-night roster in October.

Up-front, Morgan Barron is making a name for himself with his terrific Cornell team, as the 6-foot-3, 210-pound center could be a second coming of Brian Boyle. Then there is the terrifically talented Vitali Kravtsov trying to clear up his reputation after his departure to Russia and his subsequent return. And who knows what will become of Lias Andersson, as the No. 7-overall pick now is officially on loan to HC71 in Sweden.

Where do all these players fit in the Rangers’ future? They don’t. But gathering an abundance of talent always was the goal of this rebuild, and sometime soon, the Rangers will try to turn it into a winning team. 1173536 New York Rangers

Rookie goaltender Igor Shesterkin recalled by Rangers from AHL

By Colin Stephenson [email protected] @ColinSNewsday

Updated January 29, 2020 6:07 PM

With their All-Star break/bye week over and the team scheduled to practice Thursday, the Rangers recalled goaltender Igor Shesterkin from AHL Hartford Wednesday.

The recall of Shesterkin, 24, means the Rangers will have three goalies on the roster again, as they did for the two weeks before the break. Shesterkin joins Henrik Lundqvist and Alexandar Georgiev on the roster.

Shesterkin played in three games for the Rangers after his first callup Jan. 6, going 2-1, with a 2.68 goals-against average and .929 save percentage. After the Rangers lost to the Islanders, 4-2, in their last game before the All-Star break last Tuesday, Shesterkin was sent to Hartford, where he played two games, against Bridgeport on Friday and Lehigh Valley on Saturday.

Hartford won both of those games, with Shesterkin allowing a total of three goals on 62 shots. Overall, he has played 25 games for Hartford this season, going 17-4-3, with a 1.90 GAA, .934 save percentage and three shutouts.

Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173537 New York Rangers a game setting. Rusty or not, they’re exposed to whatever the team in front of them allows.

Lundqvist and Georgiev split the first two games of 2020 before Balancing the good and bad of the Rangers’ current three-goalie system Shesterkin’s call up. After playing against the Flames, Lundqvist didn’t start for another nine days — giving him just one start since the call-up, although he’s backed up on nights for the rest of the games. At minimum, it’ll be 20 days before starts, and that’s only if he gets Friday night’s start By Shayna Goldman against the Red Wings. While the priority right now isn’t playing their Jan 29, 2020 veteran netminder as it learning is about their younger goalies, this still isn’t ideal.

Georgiev, a goaltender whose development still is a priority, had a nine Finding the right balance in a three-goalie system is a challenge that the day break between starts. While he started three and six nights after that, New York Rangers are trying to navigate with Henrik Lundqvist, the reasoning seemed less about the rotation and getting him playing Alexandar Georgiev, and Igor Shesterkin. Going into the 2019-20 time and more about his results against that particular opponent. season, there were more questions in the Rangers’ net than in earlier seasons of Lundqvist’s tenure. It’s unquestionably been his crease As for Shesterkin, after two consecutive starts, he didn’t play for 10 days. through the years, but at 37 years old, there was less certainty in just Time at the NHL level, even while not playing in a game setting, was still how much he’d be leaned on with their rebuild and depth in mind. worthwhile for him as it gave him a chance to get more familiar with the team in front of him in practice and invaluable time with goaltending Georgiev established himself as a part of the goaltending tandem last coach Benoit Allaire. Plus, he returned to the Wolf Pack during the year and Shesterkin excelled in Hartford as he transitioned to North Rangers’ bye week to continue playing. American ice this season, instilling even more confidence into the future of the Rangers’ net. But it also put pressure on Lundqvist and Georgiev, Along with the number of starts, the other consideration with the trio has who now became part of a trio after Shesterkin’s promotion earlier this to be their actual performances. Has rotating three goaltenders month. influenced their play?

The benefits of the Rangers’ three-goalie system One way to measure is by looking at ‘quality starts’ and ‘steals,’ using the the work of SB Nation’s Alan Wells. To register a quality start, a The Rangers make their goaltenders work a lot as they allow the highest goaltender doesn’t allow more goals than expected (quantified by a goals rate of shots and quality chances against. So, in theory, having three saved above expectation of at least zero). To steal a game, a goaltenders to shoulder this challenging workload can provide some goaltender’s GSAx has to be greater than the final goal differential of the relief. game.

In the heat maps below, we can get a better look at the workloads their Fourteen of Lundqvist’s 23 starts count as quality starts for a percentage two leading goaltenders have faced. Red represents areas where more of about 60 percent. Two of his nine wins can be considered steals. As shots are allowed than league average, while blue indicates where they for Georgiev’s 22 starts, 11 qualify as quality starts (50 percent); like allow fewer shots. Lundqvist, he also has two steals. Shesterkin hasn’t qualified for either yet. Charts via HockeyViz.com In January, there have only been two quality starts and one steal. While Through 25 games, Henrik Lundqvist has faced 804 shots against in all it’s a smaller sample to pull from – the Rangers began to trend back up in situations. When factoring in quality, and adjusting for score and venue, expected goals against just before the break – it’s something to keep he’s faced an expected goals against of 77.78. Georgiev, on the other track of moving forward to see if fewer starts and less opportunity to get hand, has faced 731 shots in 23 games, and an adjusted expected goals into their cycle deteriorate any of their games. against of 69.35. In terms of quantity and quality, both have saved more goals than expected; Georgiev’s stopped 2.78 goals above expectation Is their three-goalie situation sustainable? and Lundqvist 2.76. Few who run a three-goalie system stick with it long-term. The Devils Viz via ChartingHockey.ca rotated three goaltenders at times last year with Cory Schneider, Mackenzie Blackwood, and Keith Kinkaid after Blackwood was promoted Shesterkin, through his first three NHL starts, has already gotten the to the NHL. New Jersey made their trio to a duo when Kinkaid was Ranger experience, facing 112 shots for an average of 37.3 per game. traded at the deadline. He’s saved more goals above average in terms of shot quantity and is just below expectation in terms of quality. Kinkaid was traded to Columbus, where he made the duo of Sergei Bobrovsky and Joonas Korpisalo a trio, although he didn’t end up starting Between these three goaltenders, the Rangers are getting quality play in a game for the Blue Jackets. net, despite the challenging workload they all face. The Jets balanced three goaltenders in 2015-16 with Ondrej Pavelec, The other positive is that the front office is seeing how Shesterkin plays Michael Hutchinson, and rookie Connor Hellebuyck, whose first NHL at the NHL level, after acing his first transition to North American ice. promotion and debut was injury related. After 26 games at the NHL level, These games can better inform their decision-making on how to proceed he returned to the AHL to finish the year which sorted out their net until with their goaltenders before making any changes in the near future and training camp the next year. help them plan for their long-term future. And in 2016-17, the Rangers saw a three-goalie situation play out nearby The downsides of rotating three goaltenders with the Islanders when they had Thomas Greiss, J.F. Berube, and Three-goalie systems typically aren’t that smooth. If they were, it would Jaroslav Halak that led to the latter spending time in the AHL. Ultimately, be a more intentional and common occurrence around the NHL. the unfortunate situation was solved by Berube being claimed in the expansion draft in 2017. Halak left as a free agent a year later. Let’s take a closer look at the Rangers’ goaltending since Shesterkin’s promotion. The Rangers’ three-goalie situation didn’t start because of injuries or underperformances, but an excellent AHL start that earned a look at the Georgiev surged in November before struggling through a few games in NHL level even though there already was a working tandem. late December. He’s been trending back up since Shesterkin’s call-up. Comparatively, Lundqvist has been more consistent with his level of play, Like some other three-goalie situations, this could become a problem but what stands out is where his play stops — he hasn’t started January long-term if their netminders struggle, the ice time isn’t distributed evenly 11 and only played twice this month. enough, development is stunted, or it becomes mentally draining. That’s why a midseason trade is possible. But, if handled right, it’s possible that And therein lies the problem. the Rangers can push off a decision until the offseason, where trades There’s only so many starts to go around. By taking extended breaks involving goaltenders are more frequent than in-season moves. between starts, it stops goaltenders from finding their rhythm. Unlike the For the Rangers, the question isn’t what they’ll have to figure out skaters in front of them, they really can’t be sheltered or eased back into between the pipes moving forward, but when. That time is quickly approaching. For as much as having three skilled goaltenders is a good problem to have, it’s tricky to manage when all three are at the NHL level pushing for playing time.

The beauty of having a surplus is that it gives a team a piece to move to fill a void elsewhere. So, it’s less of a question of what the Rangers will do — it’s when they’ll do it and how it will be handled until that solution comes along.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173538 NHL NHL Seattle officials for months had strongly hinted they felt Kraken was too gimmicky to be used as a name for a major sports franchise. They at one point suggested it might be looked at for a secondary team such as their American Hockey League franchise in Palm Springs, Calif., given its NHL Seattle doesn’t rule out ‘Kraken’ for team name after report popularity with some segments of fans. suggests it has already been chosen Wednesday’s refusal by the team to rule Kraken out suggests some of that thinking might have changed. NHL Seattle co-owner and Hollywood producer Jerry Bruckheimer has used a Kraken sea creature in his Jan. 29, 2020 at 4:56 pm Updated Jan. 29, 2020 at 6:29 PM “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies and it’s been suggested previously he By Geoff Baker could benefit from crossover tie-ins with the film.

Seattle Times staff reporter Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan, in response to NHL Seattle’s statement on Twitter, tweeted a clip from 2010 movie “Clash of the Titans” that has the caption “Release the Kraken!”

The team did not rule out “Kraken” as a potential choice and offered no further comment. In prior discussions, the team indicated it had postponed a naming decision until March due to further research on Seattle Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 potential trademark issues insisted upon by the NHL.

“At NHL Seattle, we are thrilled by the growing excitement about our team — and we can’t wait to share every detail with our fans,” the statement said. “However, we will not be commenting on any rumors. Please check our social channels for more updates.”

The team then tweeted a comment filled with playful fish and sea references. “Kraken” references a fictitious sea monster.

“While we’re aware of some fishy rumors surrounding our team name,” the tweet reads, “please rest assured we’re doing our due diligence by scouring the depths of the ocean, the tallest mountains, and the densest parts of the forest to find the right name for our great, green city.”

Hockey blogger John Hoven of mayorsmanor.com said on air Wednesday that: “From everything I’ve seen and heard, it looks like Kraken is going to be the name. Which is quite surprising, actually, when I was given that information just a few days ago. I was a little bit in shock, personally, just because we had been told previously that it was not the name they were going for.”

Hoven went on to suggest he’d been told by a team source that the franchise had been leaning toward “Sockeyes” as a name, but he added that was nixed because of possible legal issues. Romance novel writer Jami Davenport of Shelton has a Seattle Sockeyes book series.

In a phone interview Wednesday, Davenport told The Seattle Times she has only a book-related trademark for the name, but nonetheless had her lawyer write the team a year ago inviting officials to discuss the issue. She filed for the Seattle Sockeyes trademark Dec. 21, 2017, two weeks after the group that became NHL Seattle was given permission by the league to apply for an expansion team, which was awarded a year later.

“He (Davenport’s lawyer) let them know that I was willing to work with them,” she said. “And we haven’t heard a thing.”

Davenport said she doesn’t like talking about the issue in public because of the undue attention it brings. But as a hockey fan, she has a deposit on NHL Seattle season tickets and wants the team to do well.

“I don’t like people thinking I’m the holdup here, because I’m not,” she said.

Three years ago, when the Vegas Golden Knights named their expansion team, the league and franchise believed all trademark issues had been properly researched. But the U.S. Army then disputed the NHL team’s trademark application, stating the name and team colors had belonged to its competitive parachute squad that had used “Golden Knights” as a nickname since 1960.

The dispute wasn’t resolved until July 2018, when both sides agreed to keep using the name and colors.

Of all the team names debated in public by NHL Seattle fans, Kraken has appeared to be the most polarizing. While appealing to a certain segment of fans, especially online, others have ridiculed it and claimed it has nothing to do with Seattle or the Northwest.

Hoven also said in the story that he’s been told the team will use red, black and “teal-ish color” as its brand colors, which have been seen in marketing materials since the NHL awarded the franchise to Seattle in December 2018. The team is scheduled to begin play in the 2021-22 season. 1173539 NHL “You’ve got to kind of put out your personal feelings and start with a clean slate,” Goodwin said.

Granato sets aside bad reputations from when players were teenagers: NHL Seattle’s scouts are preparing to build a team from scratch. Here’s “You have to give them a chance to grow up.’’ how. Instead, she tries to remember how she felt as a player and looks for things like “compete level’’ and “confidence’’ from those she’s watching. She knows how it feels to “want the puck on your stick and when you By Geoff Baker don’t want to touch it’’ and can quickly spot those on-ice traits.

Seattle Times staff reporter Barnes said he sometimes struggles to “scout the player and not the system’’ of the team he plays for, which the former coach in him wants to

do. NHL Seattle professional scout Dave Hunter isn’t like most hockey fans Obsessing over coaching tactics was “a big mistake’’ admittedly made when it comes to what he focuses on when a player has a big scoring early by Samuelsson, a former assistant coach with the New York night. Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks and a head coach of Carolina’s farm “To me, it would be the play away from the puck that the camera’s not team under GM Francis. He told the audience his scouting job requires showing,’’ Hunter told more than 300 people packed inside a Pacific focusing on individual players and a broader view than the “What are you Science Center auditorium Tuesday night. going to do and who are you going to hit?’’ mindset he carried into games he played in. Indeed, the consensus from five NHL Seattle pro scouts partaking in the sold-out “Science of Scouting’’ event was that their jobs entail seeking “I give a lot more credit to scouts nowadays because you’ve got a lot of out things most people ignore. Hunter, Cammi Granato, Ulf Samuelsson, moving parts and it’s really hard,’’ Samuelsson said. Stu Barnes and John Goodwin, all hired last September, shared stories But eventually, he added, that hard work may pay off if undervalued on how they go about assembling nightly player data the team will use in talent is spotted in players made available in the expansion draft. building a roster ahead of its October 2021 debut. “We’re going to get players that are good,’’ he said. “But we’ll try to make For now, the group has largely been given free rein to note things they them real good.’’ consider important, though they must submit online game reports requiring things like a team’s forward lines, defensive pairings and other basics be filled out. Seattle Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 Granato, the first female pro scout hired by an NHL team, described showing up for her debut assignment last October at a Canucks game in Vancouver uncertain of exactly what she should be noting. Suddenly, just seconds after the opening faceoff, she spotted an opposing team’s scout writing something down.

“I’m like, ‘Damn, what am I missing?’,’’ she told the crowd, generating laughs.

NHL Seattle’s crew is largely new to the full-time scouting world, with Samuelsson and Barnes having played in the NHL and served as assistant coaches for teams. Granato was a Hall of Famer at the highest levels of women’s hockey, while Goodwin was once a top amateur and minor pro player who coached in the major junior and did limited scouting there.

Of the bunch, Hunter, with only collegiate playing experience, was clearly the senior scout having spent a decade watching amateur and pro players for teams, including the Carolina Hurricanes under current NHL Seattle general manager . Hunter said the group has already scouted about 400 combined NHL and minor professional games and hopes to reach 2,500 by the June 2021 expansion draft.

“It will be really, really ramping up as we go forward,’’ he said.

Hunter tries to observe things like which players a coach uses in critical situations, such as when pulling the goalie to press for a late tying goal. Or, whether a player reacts to a bad on-ice play by slamming his stick in frustration upon arriving at the bench.

Samuelsson, who amassed more than 2,400 penalty minutes over 16 seasons with five NHL teams as an intense, controversial defenseman, looks for “whoever can maintain their normal game in a pressure situation.’’

The scouting newcomers, responding to an audience question, admitted one of their toughest challenges has been ignoring preconceived biases about players and how hockey should be played.

“I think in any sport we all have our favorite type of player, whether it’s as a quarterback or a pitcher,’’ said Barnes, who played 1,136 games over 16 NHL seasons with five teams and was an assistant coach with Dallas through last spring. “You really just have to take a step back and get a view from 10,000 feet of what that player is really about.’’

Goodwin mentioned how good players can “slip through the net’’ if scouts don’t report what they see rather than filtering that information through a player’s reputation. He recalled Luc Robitaille famously going undrafted until the 9th round, then enjoying a Hall of Fame career in which he scored 686 goals and compiled 1,394 points. 1173540 Ottawa Senators the non-existent lever or button that opens up the gas tank? Asking for a friend.

Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.30.2020 Back to the future for Ennis, Pageau and the power play, the numbers from Borowiecki and Duclair

Ken Warren

Tyler Ennis relived some of his early NHL days in Buffalo on Tuesday while also helping inspire hope for the Ottawa Senators’ future.

“I have a lot of memories here,” Ennis said after scoring one of a season- high three Senators power-play goals in the 5-2 victory over the Sabres. “I was here for a long time, so any time you come back and can be part of a win, it’s a great feeling.”

Originally drafted by the Sabres in the first round (26th overall) of the 2008 draft, Ennis played eight seasons in Buffalo. Three times he topped 20 goals and 40 points with the Sabres.

Now with 13 goals and 16 assists in 50 games this season, it’s possible he could once again reach those numbers with the Senators.

If, that is, he’s not moved before the Feb. 24 trade deadline. With a salary of $800,000, he wouldn’t break for the bank for a Stanley Cup contender who could see Ennis as a versatile depth winger.

POWER-PLAY SUCCESS: For now, anyway, Ennis is pumped to see a significant development in the Senators’ power play. With three man- advantage goals against Buffalo and a combined six overall in the past four games, the Senators have finally escaped their 31st overall ranking in power-play percentage. They’ve now converted on 14.4 per cent of their chances, moving ahead of the New Jersey Devils.

“It’s a young team, so it’s going to take time to develop and get everyone on the same page and knowing the routes and plays,” he said. “It’s a little more technical than just having one more guy than (the other team). We’ve been getting better as the season has progressed and we’re starting to click.”

He also passed on plenty of praise to Batherson, whose crisp pass set up Ennis for his goal on Tuesday.

“We know what he can do offensively,” Ennis said. “He’s so talented, especially on the power play. He’s such a big part of improving the power play. I just had to put it into an empty net.”

THE PAGEAU FACTOR: Don’t discount the impact of Jean-Gabriel Pageau with the man advantage, either. Pageau saw no power-play time in the opening months of the season, but has taken advantage of the opportunities Smith and assistant coach Davis Payne have given him in recent weeks. Pageau’s redirection of a Thomas Chabot pass Tuesday was his second power-play goal of the season. He also has four assists with the extra man. “We’re starting to do some good stuff,” Pageau said. “We’re getting pucks to the net, playing a little bit like we do on five-on- five and just outwork them. I think that opened up some chances (against Buffalo) and we buried some of them. It’s good for our confidence.”

WHAT WERE THE ODDS? Mark Borowiecki has six goals, on pace for a season total of 10. The remainder of the Senators’ defence has seven, on pace to score 11. … Mike Reilly’s goal against Buffalo was his first since Jan. 23, 2019. Nikita Zaitsev’s goal against Buffalo was his first since last Feb. 2.

THE GOALS WILL COME: Anthony Duclair has now gone a dozen games without scoring, but he was recognized for the strength of his game Tuesday by being selected third star in Buffalo. He had nine shots on goal and was robbed several times by Sabres starting goaltender Linus Ullmark. “He was dangerous all night,” Smith said. “He had all kinds of chances. There have been nights (earlier this season) where he was not nearly as good as that and he would score two goals and everyone was excited about it. He was really good tonight and if he keeps shooting like that the puck will go in.”

BRING ON THE PLAYOFF RACE: The challenge is on for the Senators. Eight of their next nine opponents were either in a playoff spot (Washington, Colorado twice, Arizona, Dallas) or within three points of a wild-card spot (Toronto twice and Winnipeg) before Wednesday’s action. …Have you ever rented a new car and spent 20 minutes searching for 1173541 Ottawa Senators

Hungry Anderson's pizza analogy helps deliver winning feeling

Ken Warren

Pizza, anyone?

Craig Anderson, who hadn’t previously tasted victory since Dec. 23, continued his career mastery over the Buffalo Sabres in Tuesday’s 5-2 win by stopping 28 shots. Anderson has 19 career wins over the Sabres, more than against any other team.

Afterwards, he was dishing it out about how the club maintained its focus despite a pair of glaring mistakes.

The first was Ron Hainsey’s errant pass from behind the goal line that landed on the stick of Sam Reinhart in the slot. Reinhart promptly accepted the gift by tying the game 1-1.

“I was not expecting that,” said Anderson. “That was definitely a slice of pepperoni. We battled back from it. We didn’t get discouraged.”

With the Senators leading 2-1 in the second period, Anderson couldn’t corral a loose puck in the crease. Jack Eichel pounced, burying it past Anderson.

“I was frustrated with myself,” said Anderson. “(The puck) kind of spun off my pad and I left a pizza right there for him. But what goes around, comes around, serving up pies. We got the lead with the (Mike Reilly) power play goal and my job was to make up for the second one and batten down the hatch.”

Anderson made a brilliant left pad save off Marcus Johansson in the third period that preserved the victory.

Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173542 Ottawa Senators “I’ve been playing with him since the minors. We came up at almost the same time and he has never changed.”

Beyond Borowiecki’s efforts, there were also more subtle signs of not Senators aren't letting season slip away quietly throwing in the towel.

Instead of casually skating away from Eichel in the corner with two seconds remaining in the first period, Tkachuk instead finished his check Ken Warren on the frustrated Sabres star, sending a message that his night wouldn’t be easy. Eichel did score in the second period, but he was limited to

three shots in his 23 minutes of action. We’ll get to some statistics in a moment, but in the aftermath of The Senators outshot the Sabres (39-30) and outhit the Sabres (30-17). Tuesday’s 5-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres, the Ottawa Senators effort On an individual level, Anthony Duclair had a game-high nine shots, level is perhaps best illustrated by the number of players who were followed by Tkachuk with eight. Scott Sabourin had an impact with five sporting scars and stitches on their faces or had ice bags attached to hits. Drake Batherson, who set up for a power play goal, had various other body parts. four hits, as did fellow Belleville call-up Filip Chlapik. It’s only one win, the Senators first on the road since Dec. 4, and up next “We got back to the way we play,” said coach D.J. Smith. “We were Friday at Canadian Tire Centre is the challenge of the league-leading physical. We hit people. We forechecked. We tracked back. We had Washington Capitals. good energy. Everyone played and everyone had good energy.” Yet considering where they are in the standings, having seen too many The next challenge? Do it again. And again. points slip away in extra time recently and entering into the all too familiar territory of waiting for bodies to leave in advance of the Feb. 24 trade Ottawa Sun LOADED: 01.30.2020 deadline, they deserve some credit for staying high on the give-a-care meter.

Without question, they cared more than a Sabres squad that inexplicably wasn’t prepared for a game they almost certainly needed to win to have any chance of joining the race for a playoff spot. Sabres star Jack Eichel was almost at a loss for words, suggesting his team paid a costly price for disrespecting the Senators.

In the big picture background, many former dedicated Senators fans have become apathetic, waiting before committing to the promise of the rebuild. Witness the half-full Canadian Tire Centre crowd of 9,673 in Monday’s 4-3 shootout loss to New Jersey, a sight that is central to the difficult task that lies ahead for new chief executive officer Jim Little. Many other fans, meanwhile, have mixed feelings about the whole wins and losses thing, considering that the worse the Senators fare down the stretch, the better their chances are of selecting potential franchise winger Alexis Lafreniere first overall at June’s draft.

Clearly, though, those thoughts weren’t on the minds of the players Tuesday.

There was defenceman Mark Borowiecki limping around the dressing room post-game, talking about the need to be a glutton for punishment because blocking shots and giving and taking hits is how he must make a living.

His performance Tuesday—culminating with a bank shot off the boards into an empty net after absorbing a pair of shots on a late Sabres power play — comes amid all the unknowns surrounding his own future. Borowiecki, whose wife, Tara, is due to deliver in the couple’s first child within the next few weeks, could potentially be dealt away before the trade deadline.

“It’s a challenge,” Borowiecki said of the art of blocking shots while blocking out all the distractions that arrive at this time of year. “Guys are going to give you the cookie cutter answer, that you can only control what you can control and not think about all that, but this is the first time I’ve been in this situation.

“But it’s important. If you let it get to you, that’s on you. It’s a chance to grow as a person. I wasn’t real happy with how it went prior to the (All- Star) break. I didn’t play well against Vegas (Jan. 16) and I think I got distracted. I had a good chance to reset.”

Borowiecki was only 24 hours removed from the major scare when Blake Coleman’s errant stick narrowly missed hitting his right eye. Given the alternative, he gladly accepted the repairs that were necessary: five stitches below the eye and a “little bit of glue” above the eye.

His determination in playing to the finish against the Sabres provided motivation.

“If I got hit in the face like that (Monday), I think I would be out for about six weeks,” said goaltender Craig Anderson, who picked up the win over the Sabres.

“He has the biggest heart that I know,” said Jean-Gabriel Pageau, who hit the 20-goal mark for the first time in his career against Buffalo and is in the same unknown will-he-stay or will-he-go situation as Borowiecki. 1173543 Philadelphia Flyers

Johnny Gaudreau and Buddy Robinson: A Gloucester Catholic reunion in NHL

by Sam Carchidi,

Buddy Robinson and Johnny Gaudreau used to be linemates when they played at Gloucester Catholic High. Tuesday, more than a decade later, they were finally reunited.

Robinson and Gaudreau were together on a Calgary line late in the host Flames’ 5-4 shootout loss to the defending Stanley Cup-champion St. Louis Blues.

“It’s great to see him get a chance,” Gaudreau, who had two assists in the game, told reporters about his long-time friend.

Johnny Gaudreau was hugged by his mother as he was introduced during a pep rally in the gym at his alma mater, Gloucester Catholic High School, on March 2, 2015. With Gaudreau in town to play the Flyers, the school retired his jersey number.

Johnny Gaudreau was hugged by his mother as he was introduced during a pep rally in the gym at his alma mater, Gloucester Catholic High School, on March 2, 2015. With Gaudreau in town to play the Flyers, the school retired his jersey number.

It was Gaudreau who persuaded Robinson, then a free agent, to sign with the Flames in 2018.

At the time he was promoted from Stockton, Robinson had 16 goals for the Flames’ AHL affiliate. He had also played in the Winnipeg, San Jose, and Ottawa systems, and had brief NHL stints with the Senators in 2015- 16 and 2016-17, collecting a goal and an assist in a combined seven games.

Robinson, 28, is a 6-foot-6, 230-pound right winger who towers over Gaudreau, who is generously listed at 5-9 and 165 pounds and is regarded as one of the league’s best left wingers.

Against the Blues on Tuesday, Robinson had two shots and two hits while playing 15 minutes, 31 seconds. He also sent Gaudreau away on a breakaway, but he was stopped.

“We got a couple chances. We laughed about that one that he almost had on the breakaway,” Robinson, who had Gaudreau in his wedding party in 2017, said after Tuesday’s game. “It’s a dream to play with a close friend that you grew up with, but now the first one is out of the way and it’s time to go back to work here. We have Edmonton [on Wednesday], and I hear it’s a pretty big rival. If I’m in the lineup, I’ll be ready to go and we’ll have some fun with it.”

Buddy Robinson on playing with Calgary and being reunited with his Gloucester Catholic High teammate and best bud, Johnny Gaudreau. https://t.co/bwwHB1R5GO

— Sam Carchidi (@BroadStBull) January 29, 2020

Robinson, a Bellmawr native, did play Wednesday and nearly scored early in the third period after taking a great feed from Gaudreau. He had two shots, two hits, and two blocked shots in the Flames’ 4-3 shootout win in Edmonton.

Robinson said there is “no secret message to my game. Just get pucks in and get hard on the forecheck, and you get guys like John and Monny [Sean Monahan] around the net; they’re going to make some special plays. … Getting them the puck is priority No. 1.”

He reflected on his years at Gloucester Catholic.

“In high school, I used to be a skilled guy, so there wasn’t much hitting,” he said, smiling, “and then John’s dad [Guy, his coach] beat that out of me once I turned 6-6.”

Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173544 Philadelphia Flyers “Everyone knows the importance of divisional games in the sense those have a direct impact," van Riemsdyk said. "They’re four-point swings, In that sense, you’re taking care of business there.”

Little margin for error as Flyers, in a ‘great position,’ get ready for The Flyers will play 23 of their remaining 32 games against the Eastern fascinating stretch run Conference. That’s a positive, because the Flyers have a league-best 19- 6-3 record against the East; they are just 8-11-2 against the West.

Heading into their break, the Flyers built momentum by winning five of by Sam Carchidi, their last seven games, including victories over heavyweights Washington, Boston, St. Louis, and Pittsburgh.

Will the layoff kill their momentum? At the All-Star break, before some NHL teams resumed play Monday, the Flyers, with 60 points, would have been in first place if they played in the It did the last time they had a break. They went into Christmas with a Pacific Division, in third place in the Central, and fourth in the Atlantic. four-game winning streak but came out of their holiday break by going 1- 4-1 on a six-game road trip in which they were outscored, 28-16. Ah, but they have the misfortune of being in the NHL’s best division this season, so they were only sixth in the eight-team Metropolitan. They The Eastern Conference is so tight that another skid would make it an were also (barely) out of a wild-card spot, because two Metro teams, uphill climb the rest of the way. The Flyers will come out of their latest Columbus (Columbus!) and Carolina, were slightly ahead of them. break with back-to-back games against two tough opponents, Pittsburgh on Friday and Colorado on Saturday. That means they don’t have much margin for error in the stretch run, which has 32 games to the finish line, starting Friday in Pittsburgh. More The Flyers have the ingredients for a playoff team. They have a coach, specifically, they must improve on the road if they are going to climb into Vigneault, who pushes most of the right buttons. They have a nice mix of a playoff spot. proven veterans and young players on the rise, and their schedule is favorable. The Flyers are 17-4-4 at home, but just 10-13-2 on the road. Of the 16 teams in playoff spots at the All-Star break, 15 had winning records on The head-to-head matchups in the Metro could be the deciding factor. the road. As for their opponents, Carolina could slip because of All-Star The good news: The Flyers have a very favorable schedule the rest of defenseman Dougie Hamilton’s broken left leg, and Columbus, which has the way. The traveling won’t be nearly as difficult as in the first three-plus played over its head, could hit a wall. The Flyers can’t count on that months, and they’ll play only two games (Dallas, Nashville) out of the happening, however. Eastern time zone. In essence, the Flyers — and all the on-the-bubble teams in the Eastern “We’re in a great position,” coach Alain Vigneault said before the All-Star Conference — are in playoff mode. Every period matters. Every shift will break/bye week. “… We’re right where we want to be. It’s going to be need playoff desperation. tough. It’s going to be fun. It’s an opportunity for our leadership group and our young players, who are all getting better, to go out there and As the late, great Gene Hart was fond of saying: Hold onto your seat prove we’re a good team.” belts.

What is needed This is going to be a bumpy but exhilarating ride to the finish line.

Strong finishes by veterans Claude Giroux — who is on pace for just 57 Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 01.30.2020 points, which would be his lowest full-season total since 2009-10, his first full season in the NHL — , and Shayne Gostisbehere would help. So would better road play from 21-year-old goalie Carter Hart. Oh, and more consistency from the power play.

In their first 50 games, the Flyers had 10 sets of back-to-back contests, and the traveling could be summarized in one word: brutal. To their credit, they didn’t make excuses and put together a solid 27-17-6 record.

After playing an exhibition game in Switzerland, they began the regular season in the Czech Republic, came home for a game, and then went to for three games.

The hectic schedule rarely let up, and the Flyers, as far as back-to-backs and having three games in four nights, will play more games against rested opponents than any other team in the league this season.

“The schedule has been the toughest one in the four years I’ve been here,” said defenseman Ivan Provorov, adding he was “not making excuses” for any portion of the season. “It’s felt like we’ve always been on the move and never had any time to relax and recover. It‘s felt like the season’s been 100 mph.”

That’s why Provorov and his teammates welcomed this break. When they face the Penguins, they will have had nine days between games.

A time to ‘recharge’

“It’s good for everyone to recharge and for some guys to heal,” said Provorov, mindful that Hart (abdominal strain) and Gostisbehere (arthroscopic knee surgery) are among the players close to returning from injuries. “We’ll come back with a ton of energy and continue to get better.”

Both Eastern Conference wild-card teams could come of out of the Metropolitan Division, though Florida or Toronto, each from the Atlantic, could grab a wild-card spot.

The Flyers are an impressive 9-2-3 against Metro teams, and they have 14 games left against their division rivals. 1173545 Philadelphia Flyers • • • Speaking of Voracek, his goal only highlighted his solid, two-way play of

late. Asked about that, Voracek agreed. Flyers Notebook: Rest or no, Ivan Provorov keeps rolling along "I would say I think it's longer than a month," Voracek said of his run of impressive performances. "The first 15 to 20 games it was a little bit sluggish, I agree, but since then I think I've been playing some pretty By Rob Parent good hockey. Defensively I've been working on that a lot during the season."

• • • PHILADELPHIA — Because the NHL is a forward-thinking game of the 21st Century — or at least believes itself to be — the league's players Reminded at a practice earlier in the day that the last time the Flyers and union a few years back thought it would be a fresh, modern idea to give Penguins had gotten together, the game wound up in a 7-1 Penguins their guys a long rest right in the middle of the season. home win on Oct. 29, Vigneault said, "I sort of tried to turn the page on that one." Kind of a kindly halftime, if you will. Like those tough football guys have it. Of course, they don't have to jam 82 football games into a season. "We're past that," he added with emphasis. "That was a long time ago. We know they're one of the best teams in the NHL. For quite some time That's why the Flyers don't play another game until taking on the now they've been rolling on all cylinders, playing real well offensively and Penguins in Pittsburgh Jan. 31. defensively. So we know we're going to have to be at our best tonight. It's That's why, prior to Tuesday's getaway game against the Penguins at a lot like some of the opponents we've been playing lately, they're on top Wells Fargo Center, the Flyers had played 12 games in a three-week of their game." stretch. Delaware County Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 Once again, that's 10 days between games on the heels of a dozen games in 21 nights. That's the state of your NHL, fans. Or, as Alain Vigneault so classically characterized his team's so-called bye week, "I don't know how that got into the game, really."

Join the club, coach.

Since it's there, and has been for the previous three seasons, team officials have to live with it. A chance to give injured players extra recovery time is an obvious benefit. But there are some players who question the necessity of having it condense the schedule on both ends.

A player like Ivan Provorov, for example. The Flyers defenseman played in his 50th game of the season Tuesday night, in the Flyers' 50th game. It was also his 296th regular season career game ... out of a possible 296.

"Touch wood there," Vigneault noted. But maybe they created this ridiculous bye week for players like Provorov.

The guy never takes a night off, and it's typical that his work night is spent with more time on the ice than any other player.

"He's a force for us," Vigneault added. "He plays big minutes against the other team's top lines, plays on our power play, kills penalties ... and I still think he hasn't peaked yet as far as capability. There's a lot more there.

"They say for a defenseman it usually takes around 200 games, just to establish yourself, to learn the game and understand it. Without a doubt I think he's an excellent player right now with still some upside to go."

Provorov is having an outstanding fourth season, but Vigneault said he thought he will become a more consistent player as he goes along. "And as far as offensively," Vigneault added, "knowing when to jump up and when to use his good shot, those are all elements of his game that I think as he gets more experience, he's going to improve."

• • •

Michael Raffl missed Tuesday's game with an upper-body injury stemming from a hit he took Saturday against the Kings. Vigneault figures Raffl could use an extended period of rest on top of the 10-day break to recover.

"He still has some effects from that hit, neck wise and shoulder wise," Vigneault said.

So he inserted Phantoms promotee German Rubtsov on the wing of a checking line and moved rookie Joel Farabee back to the second line on left wing in Raffl's place.

Farabee has looked sharper after being a one-game demotee to the Phantoms last week.

"We forget sometimes how young he is," Vigneault said. "He's probably played more hockey before this break than he's played throughout any season prior to that. So I think that little game off might have re- energized him; re-set, refocused. The last couple of games he's played much better for us."

Farabee had an assist on Jake Voracek's goal Tuesday. 1173546 Philadelphia Flyers Chynoweth didn’t believe so. “I just think that this is something that he’s had and it just got

progressively worse,” he said. “Just to tell you, to speak about his pain Flyers prospect Egor Zamula can 'do things that not many players can' threshold, we never once heard about it when he was here. He played and it just got worse as he got more in the last little bit. It just got to a point where they had to have something to do about it. He’s going to have surgery, he’s going to be out three to four months but he should be By Jordan Hall January 29, 2020 7:00 AM ready for the start of development camp for the Flyers after the draft.”

Zamula will most likely open the 2020-21 season with AHL affiliate Back in January 2018, general manager Jeff Chynoweth Lehigh Valley, but you never know. With the Feb. 24 trade deadline and saw a slender 17-year-old defenseman and thought “huge upside.” a whole offseason ahead before next training camp, things can change.

Two years later, Chynoweth has watched the once raw and cocooned Zamula will continue to change as he recovers and gears up for pro prospect play his final WHL game. The GM no longer sees potential — hockey. Gaining more strength will be a focus during the offseason. he sees a player. Zamula was listed at 6-foot-3, 160 pounds to start the 2018-19 season. This season, he was 6-foot-4, 170. That player is Egor Zamula, now 19 years old and hunting down the NHL, a prospect who has gone from diaphanous to dynamite within the “I think that’s the biggest thing, he’s going to have to get stronger,” Flyers’ farm system. Chynoweth said. “You can never stop working on your skating, you see how fast the NHL game is, it’s getting faster all the time. But the things he “The incline has been very high,” Chynoweth said last Saturday in a does well, you can’t teach. Most guys put on weight as they get older and phone interview with NBC Sports Philadelphia. get stronger. Obviously now being with the Flyers in Philadelphia for the surgery, he’ll be there under their watchful eye through the rehab The incline is at a halt — for now. Zamula, an undrafted product who process. And I’m sure that once he’s cleared to start working out, they’ll signed an entry-level contract with the Flyers in September 2018, had his do a great job.” 2019-20 season cut short because of a back injury. Zamula has been in the Philadelphia area since mid-January and was scheduled to undergo Chynoweth is looking forward to seeing Zamula in Calgary again. surgery Tuesday, according to Chynoweth. Not as a prospect, but as an NHL player. While the incline has been put on hiatus, the excitement about it has not. “The next time we watch him, hopefully it will be on Saddledome ice In 2017-18, Zamula scored 18 points over 69 games between the Regina when the Flyers come to town,” he said. Pats and Hitmen. In 2018-19, after the Flyers signed Zamula thanks to the diligence of amateur scout Mark Greig, the lanky blueliner recorded “The Flyers have a good one there. … I think the sky’s the limit for Egor.” 56 points (10 goals, 46 assists) through 61 games for Calgary. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020  WHL Highlight of the Night 

December 14, 2018@NHLFlyers prospect @egor_zamula of the @WHLHitmen #WHLHoN pic.twitter.com/8rVBNojXmb

— The WHL (@TheWHL) December 15, 2018

At Flyers development camp in the summer and training camp during the fall, Zamula showed his smooth skating stride, disruptive length and confidence with the puck. His strengths are particularly appealing when accentuated in an Alain Vigneault type of system, which encourages defensemen to push pace, pin the opposition and make plays.

After drawing high praise from Flyers general manager , Zamula put up 28 points (seven goals, 21 assists) and a plus-19 rating in 28 games this season, his third junior hockey campaign. There won’t be a fourth and final one.

Yegor Zamula, pretty fluid. pic.twitter.com/IwN5RIZGb9

— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) June 25, 2019

What I liked about his game was he could see the ice very well, he had a long, active stick,” Chynoweth said. “Being a 6-foot-4 guy anyways and with a long stick, he was good at getting pucks away from opposing players, he could slow the game down. For a big man, he could thread the pass like a needle in a haystack. He could do things that not many players can. He had a bomb from the point.

He was almost a point-a-game player last year, you look at the numbers he put up last year as an 18-year-old, and then he just continued right into this year, point-a-game player and unfortunately got hurt at the world juniors. But he was having a great season, he had a great world juniors, named one of the top three players for Russia at the world juniors. I mean, the sky was the limit, and then unfortunately he has a back injury.

Zamula’s season came to an end at the 2020 IIHF World Junior Championship where he went down swinging. He helped lead Russia to a silver medal with five points (two goals, three assists) in seven games, playing through the injured back.

"He's been playing in pain for a while and playing remarkably well, but not at 100 percent," Fletcher said two weeks ago.

The Hitmen stated the injury was a result of a degenerative condition that intensified at the world juniors tournament. Could a degenerative issue be a concern moving forward? 1173547 Pittsburgh Penguins

Minor league report: Alex D’Orio leads Nailers past Admirals

SETH RORABAUGH | Wednesday, January 29, 2020 10:36 p.m.

Goaltender Alex D’Orio made 27 saves for the Wheeling Nailers in a 2-1 home win against the Norfolk Admirals at WesBanco Arena in Wheeling on Wednesday.

Forwards Cam Brown and Brady Fleurent scored goals for the Nailers (19-18-5-0).

Highlights:

The Nailers’ next game is at home against the Orlando Solar Bears on Friday, 7:05 p.m.

Tribune Review LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173548 Pittsburgh Penguins the AHL’s as well as MODO in the .

The native of Fagersta, Sweden, retains his dream of being only the third Ex-Penguins defenseman Ulf Samuelsson still hopes to coach in NHL European-born and trained head coach in NHL history.

“That’s a big goal of mine,” said Samuelsson, a candidate for the Penguins’ vacant head coaching position in the 2014 offseason. SETH RORABAUGH | Wednesday, January 29, 2020 1:51 p.m. “Working hard towards building a resume and a career here. I feel like I’m taking strides each time I work for (a team).

“This is pretty fun but I think the longer it goes now, the more I miss GLENDALE, Ariz. — Ulf Samuelsson enjoys the sleek and skilled NHL of coaching. I’m keeping all the doors open, obviously, but I’m really starting 2020. Honest. to miss coaching.” “Obviously, more speed now,” Samuelsson said. “Skill is utilized. I think Tribune Review LOADED: 01.30.2020 they’ve done a tremendous job with the game. I love it how fast it is.”

But …

“Sometimes, I wish it was a little more physical,” said Samuelsson, one of the most violent — and, not coincidentally, popular — players in Penguins history. “It’s hard to be a physical player nowadays because if you get into a situation a little bit wrong or hit in the head, you get suspended. So you’ve got to be really careful and selective. The way the players respect each other now, I think (commissioner Gary) Bettman and company have done a tremendous job.”

To hear Samuelsson lament the dispersion of sport’s physical element isn’t surprising. After all, in a 16-year career as a defenseman, he racked up 2453 penalty minutes, 26th most in NHL history. A member of the Penguins’ first two Stanley Cup championship teams in the early 1990s, his hostile methods made him a favorite of none other than Steelers great Jack Lambert.

It shouldn’t be surprising, either, that he is so well-versed -n the modern game. Especially given his current vocation.

In September, Samuelsson was hired as a scout for the NHL’s still- unnamed Seattle expansion franchise by general manager Ron Francis, his longtime teammate with the Hartford Whalers as well as the Penguins.

The position filled a void in Samuelsson’s life after he was fired as an assistant coach by the Blackhawks in November 2018.

“Ronnie and I talk all the time,” Samuelsson said. “This thing came about. He asked me if I’d do some scouting. I started to do it, and I’m really glad I did it because now, I’ve got the itch back for hockey. I haven’t done much before this since I got fired from the Blackhawks. It was a good little breather, a little break. Now, I’m really hungry and anxious to get involved in the game again.”

Out of work in hockey for the first time since he began playing professionally in 1980, Samuelsson saw benefit in being unemployed.

“I feel like I’ve been doing a lot of hockey ever since I started,” said Samuelsson, 55. “I haven’t had any breaks. I haven’t been fired before. It’s kind of just gone on season after season. I have four kids involved in hockey. So watching their games, talking to them, doing video. It’s been a lot of hockey and a lot of coaching. It was actually not bad for me to take a little breather because now I really feel pumped up to be involved again. I realize how lucky I am to still be involved in this game.”

His current involvement is unique given he is scouting for a team that doesn’t exist yet. Based out of San Diego, Samuelsson scouts the West Coast and the Southwest at NHL and AHL games.

“(Seattle management is) building a database from scratch,” Samuelsson said during an interview with the Tribune-Review during the Penguins’ game against the Arizona Coyotes on Jan. 12 in Gila River Arena. “They don’t have anything, obviously, so you try to get as much information on as many players as possible. As it gets closer to the end of the season, particularly next year, we’ll continue to build the database and focus in on the players available in the expansion draft (in 2021).

“It’s very exciting. A whole opportunity to be involved with this group. Tremendous ownership. … I know Ron Francis obviously, a quality person and a real good general manager as well. It’s definitely a unique opportunity here to be involved from the bottom up.”

Samuelsson also hopes there is further opportunity to coach. He has served as an assistant or associate coach with the Blackhawks, Coyotes and New York Rangers during his career and has been head coach of 1173549 Pittsburgh Penguins their green cards, and he would take a little bit of English back with him to Europe.

“I played in tournaments and some kids were speaking English better How Penguins from foreign countries grasped English language than me,” Galchenyuk said. “And I was born in the states.”

But over the last decade that he’s lived in North America, English has become second nature for Galchenyuk. MIKE DEFABO Pittsburgh Post-Gazette JAN 29, 2020 7:00 PM “It’s like an international language,” Galchenyuk said. “Swedes, their second language they learn in school is English. Every European, the second language they usually learn is English.” When Dominik Simon was growing up in the Czech Republic, his parents made a choice. For the native English speakers, like the seven Penguins who were born and raised in the United States, there’s a value to playing alongside Even though the family spoke Czech at home, they sent their son to an someone who comes from a different part of the world. The English elementary school and high school where all of the classes were taught speakers have picked up a few Russian or German or Swedish words — in English. So every time he studied math, science or geography, Simon even if most of them can’t be printed in the newspaper. was simultaneously learning a second language. “Pretty much just the swears in all the other languages,” defenseman “I was lucky,” Simon said recently, as he sat inside the Penguins locker Brian Dumoulin said. “That’s about it.” room more than 4,000 miles away from his hometown, having a casual conversation in his second tongue. Joking aside, the players said that by playing the game and talking with teammates from other countries, they begin to learn more about the Today that decision is paying off. Walking through an NHL locker room is world and how to connect with someone who grew up with a different almost like a tour of nations, with different accents, cultures and upbringing. languages around every corner. “It’s not just a language barrier but a cultural barrier, too,” Dumoulin said. Matt Vensel's eight takeaways from NHL All-Star weekend “You have to understand where he comes from, what his background is According to Babbel, a language-learning software, there are about 379 like and try to get to know him a little bit more. It’s more than just million native English speakers and 753 million people who speak it as a language. You have to find out about guys’ cultures, too.” second language. More than half a dozen Penguins fit into that second Now, they can start working on their Pittsburghese. category. Post Gazette LOADED: 01.30.2020 Defenseman Kris Letang, who grew up bi-lingual, often does interviews in French when he’s in Canada (and his son, Alex, followed suit during All-Star weekend). Patric Hornqvist and Marcus Pettersson both grew up speaking Swedish. Teddy Blueger speaks Latvian. Juuso Riikola speaks Finnish. Evgeni Malkin speaks Russian. Heck, forward speaks three languages fluently: Italian, English and Russian.

On the ice, players recognize their countrymen and greet (or chirp) them in the native tongue.

“If you trip somebody, for example, Russians speak Russian to each other on the ice,” Pettersson said. “Or if they chirp each other, they chirp each other in Russian. Or Finnish or Swedish or whatever it is.”

But while when they’re in the locker room, English becomes the common bond that ties players from all nations together.

“For the most part, everyone is good with the language barrier,” Canadian forward Brandon Tanev said. “Those guys are doing a great job of adapting. It’s fun to learn a little bit off of them, too.”

Dominik Kahun had a similar experience to Simon. He was also born in Czech Republic but his family moved to Germany when he was about 2 or 3 years old. They placed him in kindergarten with all the other German-speaking students.

Penguins sign defenseman Marcus Pettersson to long-term deal

“I didn’t know one word in German,” Kahun said. “But, as a kid, in one year I could speak perfect German. As a kid, you learn pretty quickly.”

As he got older, Kahun started taking English as a second language. He said he was probably a “B” student, but now he speaks English without any hesitation and just the slightest accent.

Meanwhile, Pettersson spoke only Swedish at home. But in school, English was one of four core classes. When he got home from school, Petterssson often did a little extra — um, studying — by watching American TV shows like “Friends.”

“It’s more of a UK type English you learn in school,” Pettersson said. “It’s a little old-school. Not so much the slang. It’s more proper UK English.”

For some players, however, the transition isn’t quite as smooth. When he was drafted by Pittsburgh, former Penguins defenseman Olli Maatta listed the dictionary as his favorite book — yes, the dictionary — because he was still learning the language.

And although Galchenyuk was born in Milwaukee, his family traveled around a lot to Germany, Switzerland and Italy and spoke Russian at home. Each summer, his family came back to America, per the terms of 1173550 San Jose Sharks The Canucks tied the game 1-1 at the 11:08 mark of the first period, as ’ slap shot got through traffic and past Jones for his sixth goal of the season. The first period ended with the score tied 1-1.

Tomas Hertl injured in Sharks’ loss to Vancouver Canucks Erik Karlsson recalls 2015 surge with the Hamburglar; Do the Sharks have their own super-sized run left? San Jose Sharks top center forced to leave early in what became a 5-2 loss to the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday at SAP Center Sharks 4, Ducks 2: Rejuvenated enjoys a memorable night

Hertl came into Wednesday’s game with 15 goals and 20 assists in 47 By CURTIS PASHELKA | PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 10:08 pm | games, as he had to miss four games from Nov. 21-27 with a lower body UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 10:43 PM injury. He is averaging 18 minutes and 49 seconds of ice time per game this season, and had assumed the No. 1 center role after Couture was

injured Jan. 7 in a game with the St. Louis Blues. SAN JOSE — The San Jose Sharks allowed three goals in the first eight San Jose Mercury News: LOADED: 01.30.2020 minutes of the third period and saw one of their top forwards, Tomas Hertl, leave early with an injury in a 5-2 loss to the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday at SAP Center.

The Sharks entered the third with a 2-1 lead, but the Canucks got goals from Tyler Myers, Jake Virtanen and Brandon Sutter in a span of 5 minutes and 36 seconds to take the lead for good.

Virtanen’s go-ahead goal at the 7:00 mark of the third period came on the power play, as Marc-Edouard Vlasic was assessed a double-minor for high-sticking Oscar Fantenberg at the 4:47 mark.

Quinn Hughes and Tanner Pearson also scored for the Canucks, who got 38 saves from goalie Jacob Markstrom to help earn their fourth straight victory and maintain sole possession of first place in the Pacific Division.

Hertl and Brent Burns both scored for the Sharks, who came into Wednesday’s game with four straight wins at SAP Center.

Sharks goalie Martin Jones, making his third start this month, stopped 12 of the first 13 shots he faced through two periods, including two stops on breakaways by Canucks forward Elias Pettersson. But the Canucks scored their first three third period goals on just seven shots, as Jones’ record this season fell to 13-17-2.

Wednesday’s game was just Jones’ seventh since took over as the Sharks’ interim coach on Dec. 11. In six games since the coaching change prior to Wednesday, Jones had a 1-4-1 record and an .889 save percentage.

Of greater concern to the Sharks at the moment is the health of Hertl, who left the game midway through the first period with what appeared to be a lower body injury.

Sharks interim coach Bob Boughner did not have a health update on Hertl immediately after the game, saying he would be able to provide a better assessment Thursday.

“But obviously not returning is not a good thing for us,” Boughner said.

Hertl had taken a pass from Erik Karlsson and skated toward the Canucks net before he got a shot on Markstrom. After the save, Canucks defenseman Christopher Tanev slid into Hertl, pinning him for a moment into the end boards with 13:43 left in the first period.

Hertl fell to the ice, where he remained for a few moments. He skated off under his own power before he walked to the Sharks’ dressing room. Hertl later came out to test the injury during a television time out, but again went back to the Sharks’ room.

Shortly before the end of the first period, the Sharks announced that Hertl would not return to Wednesday’s game.

The Sharks can ill afford another injury to one of their top forwards.

San Jose is already without captain and No. 1 center Logan Couture, who is expected to miss at least another three or four weeks with a small fracture in his left ankle. The Sharks entered Wednesday in 13th place in the Western Conference, nine points out of a playoff spot.

Hertl scored the game’s opening goal at the 4:15 mark of the first period. Holding the puck inside the Sharks’ zone, Hertl made a keen cross-ice pass to Timo Meier, who fired a slap shot on net. Markstrom made the save, but the rebound came right to Hertl, who fired it in for his 16th goal of the season. 1173551 San Jose Sharks

Sharks forward Tomas Hertl injured, leaves game vs. Canucks

By CURTIS PASHELKA |PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 8:15 pm | UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 9:24 PM

SAN JOSE — Sharks center Tomas Hertl had to leave Wednesday’s game with the Vancouver Canucks midway through the first period with what appeared to be a lower body injury.

The extent of the injury was not immediately known.

Hertl had taken a pretty pass from Erik Karlsson and skated toward the Canucks net before he got a shot on goalie Jacob Markstrom. After the save, Canucks defenseman Christopher Tanev slid into Hertl, pinning him for a moment into the end boards with 13:43 left in the first period.

Hertl fell to the ice, where he remained for a few moments. He skated off under his own power before he walked to the Sharks’ dressing room.

Hertl later came out to test the injury during a television time out, but again went back to the Sharks’ room. Shortly before the end of the first period, the Sharks announced that Hertl would not return to Wednesday’s game.

Hertl scored the game’s opening goal Wednesday at the 4:15 mark of the first period. Holding the puck inside the Sharks’ zone, Hertl made a keen cross-ice pass to Timo Meier, who fired a slap shot on net. Markstrom made the save, but the rebound came right to Hertl, who fired it in for his 16th goal of the season.

The Canucks tied the game 1-1 at the 11:08 mark of the first period, as Quinn Hughes’ slap shot got through traffic and past Sharks goalie Martin Jones for his sixth goal of the season. The first period ended with the score tied 1-1.

The Sharks can ill afford another injury to one of their top forwards. They are already without captain and No. 1 center Logan Couture, who is expected to miss at least another three or four weeks with a small fracture in his left ankle. The Sharks entered Wednesday in 13th place in the Western Conference, nine points out of a playoff spot.

Hertl came into Wednesday’s game with 15 goals and 20 assists in 47 games, as he had to miss four games from Nov. 21-27 with a lower body injury. He is averaging 18 minutes and 49 seconds of ice time per game this season, and had assumed the No. 1 center role after Couture was injured Jan. 7 in a game with the St. Louis Blues.

Hertl replaced Couture as the Sharks’ representative for the NHL All-Star Game this past weekend in St. Louis. Hertl scored five goals in two 3-on- 3 games, helping the Pacific Division with the tournament title.

San Jose Mercury News: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173552 San Jose Sharks “He’s gotten his game to the point where he plays top four minutes now, he’s a consistent guy on our penalty kill where a few years ago he was spotted in and out. … Also, you notice off the ice. He’s just a more vocal guy and he’s not afraid to step up and say the right things in the dressing Amid trade rumors, Sharks’ Brenden Dillon set to establish new franchise room. He feels more comfortable being in a leadership role.” record Erik Karlsson recalls 2015 surge with the Hamburglar; Do the Sharks have their own super-sized run left?

By CURTIS PASHELKA | PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 2:04 pm | Sharks 4, Ducks 2: Rejuvenated Patrick Marleau enjoys a memorable UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 2:19 PM night

All of which potentially makes Dillon an attractive player for several teams to add as the Feb. 24 trade deadline approaches. Dillon is in the SAN JOSE — A handful of NHL teams, including the Sharks, were final season of a five-year contract he signed with the Sharks in 2015 and interested in signing Brenden Dillon as he was playing his overage is slated to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. season with the Seattle Thunderbirds of the in 2011. With their place in the Western Conference, the Sharks will likely be sellers by the trade deadline. Still, Dillon hasn’t given up thinking the Dillon, who had gone undrafted, signed a three-year entry level contract Sharks can rejoin the race. with the Dallas Stars in March of that year. “This summer, it’ll be a little different. I don’t know how these next couple So when Dillon was acquired by the Sharks from Dallas during the 2014- months or couple weeks will play out,” Dillon said. “It’s been an awesome 15 season for fellow blueliner Jason Demers, he and general manager time being here as a Shark. With how we played (in Monday’s 4-2 win couldn’t help but share a laugh at the serendipity of it all. over Anaheim), you never know how these next couple weeks can go. I “(Wilson) was kind of like, ‘Small world, we ended up getting you after want to continue to make that push and see what happens.” all,'” Dillon said. San Jose Mercury News: LOADED: 01.30.2020 Six seasons later, Dillon, a pending unrestricted free agent, is about to become the Sharks’ franchise record holder for games played by an undrafted skater. Wednesday against the Vancouver Canucks, Dillon will play his 432nd game with the team, passing defenseman Dan Boyle, who played 431 of his 1,093 career games in San Jose from 2008-2014.

For complete Sharks coverage

“For me personally, yeah, I’m pretty proud of it,” Dillon said. “A lot of times, you’re counted out. You were the guy that wasn’t good enough or something was wrong with you, and you had a find a way to prove people wrong.

“For myself, to be able to watch Boyler play and watch how big of a piece he was in the organization and the league as a whole. I didn’t realize that I’ve been around that long here.”

It’s hard to imagine when you look at Dillon now — at 6-foot-4 and around 225 pounds and arguably the Sharks’ most physical defennseman — that he was just 5-foot-2 up until he was 14 or 15 years old. It’s a big reason why at that time, Dillon was passed over by every Western Hockey League team in 15 rounds of the bantam draft.

After a year in the Pacific Junior Hockey League, and undergoing a growth spurt, Dillon wound up getting his shot with Seattle, just a short drive away from his hometown of New Westminster, British Columbia. He played 280 games with the T-Birds, and was second on the team with 59 points in his final junior season.

“Growing up Vancouver, there’s lot of good hockey players around there,” Dillon said. “In the summertime, our summer skates, it was like an all-star game with some of the guys you’d be out there with.

“But once you get the confidence and feel like, ‘Hey, I can skate with these guys. I can do what some of these guys are doing.’ That was the mentality for me. I couldn’t picture myself doing anything but playing hockey.”

He was 5-foot-11 by the time he was 17 and in his first WHL season. He grew five more inches by the time he left junior hockey.

After 123 games in the AHL from 2011-2013, Dillon, as of Wednesday morning, has now played 580 NHL games, Of the 70 defensemen who were drafted in 2009, only four — Victor Hedman, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Nick Leddy and Dmitri Kulikov — have so far played in more games than Dillon. All of those four players were taken in the first round.

In 51 games this season, Dillon has 12 points but is averaging just over 19 minutes of ice time per night, a jump from the 17:45 average he had last season. He’s improved his strength and conditioning, his skating, and whatever else he’s needed to do to remain in the NHL for the last seven-plus seasons.

“A few years back when I was the assistant coach here, Dilly was in that sixth (defenseman) kind of role,” interim coach Bob Boughner said, who was an assistant in San Jose from 2015-2017. 1173553 San Jose Sharks The City Council approved the expansion project Tuesday night. The Sharks Ice complex provides a significant piece of San Jose’s

economic mosaic, officials believe. Sharks Ice mega expansion approved by San Jose, adding rinks, “It is an important economic engine for our city, generating thousands of amenities dollars in transient occupancy taxes through hosting national and international hockey and ice competitions, filling nearly 6,000 hotel rooms annually,” Gustafson said. By GEORGE AVALOS | PUBLISHED: January 29, 2020 at 5:45 am | UPDATED: January 29, 2020 at 12:49 PM San Jose Mercury News: LOADED: 01.30.2020

SAN JOSE — The popular Sharks Ice complex in central San Jose is headed for a mega expansion after city officials gave final approval to the growth plans for the skating center.

The decision by the San Jose City Council clears the way for a project that would more than double the size of the ice center and add two rinks.

Once the expansion is complete, the number of ice sheets at the skating complex will increase to six, up from the current four.

“We are thrilled to enhance our partnership with the City of San Jose and add much-needed additional sheets of ice at Solar4America at San Jose,” said Jon Gustafson, Sharks Ice senior vice president. “This facility has become an incredible community asset, hosting more than 1.2 million visitors each year.”

Located a short distance south of downtown San Jose, the popular Sharks Ice would be nearly 385,000 square feet in size once construction is complete and more than 204,000 square feet are added. The existing center is about 180,000 square feet in size.

The new Rink 5 would be a community and practice ice rink. Rink 6 would consist of a 4,213-seat competition rink.

San Jose Barracuda home games would be among the events at the competition rink. When the Barracuda team isn’t playing a home game, Rink 6 would operate in a fashion akin to Rink 5.

The existing four rinks at the ice complex are also primarily dedicated to public and community uses, as well as practice sessions.

High school hockey, as well as an array of regional, national, or even international skating events could be held at the center with the new facilities.

The 4,200-seat spectator arena will include locker rooms, training facilities, and executive office space for the Barracuda. Among the other amenities: 12 suites, eight loge boxes, one theater suite, a 46-person party deck, three bar locations, seven food concession stations, a press room, and a press box. Two team merchandise stores also will be on site.

The existing Solar 4America Ice Facility, associated parking, the , and the Municipal Firing Range are currently operating on the 21.2-acre site at 1500 S. 10th St. near East Alma Street in San Jose.

The project developers intend to bulldoze the firing range and a portion of the existing parking lot to clear the way for the expansion of the ice complex. The baseball park will remain.

The expansion will also include 20,000 square feet for a dedicated medical facility, expanded and enhanced restaurant facilities, a homework study area, and a fitness center.

Sharks Ice, a unit of Sharks Sports & Entertainment, began operating the ice center in 1998. In 1999, the complex added a third ice sheet and a training facility for the San Jose Sharks. In 2005, a fourth ice sheet and Stanley’s Sports Bar was added.

Two other Bay Area ice facilities are operated by Sharks Ice: Solar4America Ice at Fremont and the Oakland Ice Center.

The rinks operated by Sharks Ice accommodate , figure skating, broomball, curling, speed skating, ice dancing, and public skating. The Sharks Ice umbrella is home to the largest adult hockey league in the United States, with more than 4,300 participants.

Solar4America at San Jose also hosts the San Jose State University Spartans hockey team, the Jr. Sharks hockey program, the Peninsula Figure Skating Club, and the Silicon Valley Curling Club. Plus, the San Jose Sharks and the Barracuda both train at the San Jose complex. 1173554 San Jose Sharks was the Canucks' dominance in the face-off circle, where they won 38 draws to the Sharks' 20. That's a huge disparity, and continues a disturbing trend for San Jose, as the Sharks have now won fewer than 45 percent of the faceoffs in each of their last four games. That's their Sharks takeaways: What we learned in deflating 5-2 loss to Canucks longest such streak of the season, and perhaps its no surprise that they've been outscored 15-7 over that span and lost three of the four

contests. By Brian Witt January 29, 2020 10:03 PM It's tough to score when you don't have the puck, and clearly, the Sharks needed the puck a lot more Wednesday night.

SAN JOSE -- A missed chance at redemption. Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020

The Sharks (22-26-4) were dominated by the Vancouver Canucks (29- 18-4) in their final game before the All-Star break. On Wednesday night at SAP Center, it looked like San Jose might even the score, but a third- period collapse ruled out that possibility.

Facing the first-place team in the Pacific Division, the Sharks got off to a great start, with Tomas Hertl scoring less than five minutes into the game. Brent Burns gave the Sharks a one-goal lead in the second period, and Team Teal would take that same advantage into the second intermission. But three straight Canucks' goals in the first half of the third period turned a small lead into a larger deficit, and San Jose never caught back up.

Martin Jones put in an uneven performance in his first start since Jan. 16, stopping 20 of 24 shots. The 5-2 loss widened the gap in the standings between the two teams, which now stands at a whopping 14 points.

Here are three takeaways from a game the Sharks are going to regret:

Ninja Hertl

The night started wonderfully for Hertl, but he didn't get a chance to finish it.

The Sharks' lone All-Star representative -- and the guy that should have been the All-Star Game MVP -- didn't take long to enforce his will against the Canucks. Hertl's tremendous cross-ice saucer pass to Timo Meier ultimately set up his own goal, as Vancouver goaltender Jacob Markstrom was unable to control the rebound from Meier's resulting shot. The puck popped right back to Hertl, who promptly deposited into the back of the net. His goal song? The "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" theme song. Duh.

Shortly after hearing some M-V-P chants from the SAP Center crowd, Hertl awkwardly went into the boards after colliding with two Vancouver players and appeared to sustain a leg injury. He went back to the bench under his own power, but was quickly taken up the tunnel to San Jose's locker room.

Hertl came back out onto the ice minutes later during a TV timeout and appeared to be testing his leg, but after reconvening with the Sharks training staff, he was taken back into the locker room and was ruled out for the rest of the game soon thereafter.

It's unknown if Hertl will miss any time, and if so, how much. But with Logan Couture already missing from the lineup, if Hertl joins him, that might be the final straw for the Sharks' bleak playoff hopes.

Jones' first audition

If Wednesday was the first of 10-15 auditions for Martin Jones throughout the remainder of the season, we didn't exactly learn a whole lot.

Jones wasn't great, but he wasn't bad, either. There were a couple goals that maybe he should have had, but in most situations, he was dealing with a ton of traffic in front of him. And, to his credit, he came up with a few timely saves to keep his team in front through the first two periods. But then the third happened, and, well, the timely saves weren't there.

Sharks interim coach Bob Boughner expressed earlier in the week that he wants to make sure Jones doesn't have too many long layoffs, and planned to do a fairly even split with counterpart Aaron Dell. Boughner also conceded, though, that if one of San Jose's two netminders got hot, they'd be given a chance to keep it going. Jones didn't get hot Wednesday night against the Canucks, and it'll probably be Dell on Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Faceoff struggles

The Sharks dominated Vancouver in both shots (40-25) and hits (21-9). Those are usually signs that a team had a fairly successful night, but obviously, that's not what happened for San Jose. Part of the reason why 1173555 San Jose Sharks For anyone struggling with mental health, please remember Lehner's veracious words. We can be mentally ill, but that will never make anyone mentally weak. That's what #BellLetsTalk is all about.

Sharks, Barclay Goodrow feel duty to spread 'Bell Let's Talk' message Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020

By Brian Witt January 29, 2020 12:09 PM

SAN JOSE -- As you scroll your Twitter feed looking for the latest information on how the Sharks plan to defeat the first-place Vancouver Canucks at SAP Center on Wednesday night, you're bound to come across a specific hashtag, and likely not just once or twice. Wednesday is #BellLetsTalk Day in Canada, an annual movement that advocates for mental health initiatives, and naturally, the NHL is very much involved.

Mental health issues are nothing new in sports, but Chicago Blackhawks goalie Robin Lehner's acceptance speech for the Bill Masterton Trophy -- given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game -- at the 2019 NHL Awards certainly advanced the discussion.

"I’m not ashamed to say I’m mentally ill," Lehner memorably said, "but that doesn’t mean I'm mentally weak."

Damn right.

While Lehner's comments enlightened viewers to the widespread pervasiveness of mental health issues, there is still so far to go. #BellLetsTalk seeks to carry the torch that Lehner passed on, and San Jose is in full support.

"I think you can see it through all sports," Sharks interim head coach Bob Boughner said of increased mental health awareness. "There have been many athletes that have struggled with that or had a family member affected by that, and I think it's just important that it's not so taboo to come out and talk about it. If it can help one person out there, I think that's important. These guys have a role to play as being leaders in their communities. I think it's a great initiative and it's an important one."

Prior to Boughner's comments, some of his players had already fulfilled his leadership mandate. For every retweet of the #BellLetsTalk hashtag Wednesday, five cents will be donated to Canadian mental health initiatives, and several Sharks tried to bring attention to the cause.

#BellLetsTalk

— Tomáš Hertl (@TomasHertl48) January 29, 2020

#BellLetsTalk

— Erik Karlsson (@ErikKarlsson65) January 29, 2020

Speak up #BellLetsTalk

— Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) January 29, 2020

Sharks forward Barclay Goodrow agreed with Boughner's claim that the players have a responsibility to use their elevated status for the benefit of others.

"Obviously, we have a bigger platform than the average person," Goodrow explained following Wednesday's morning skate, "so I think if we can show that we're susceptible to it just as much as the average fan and if we're willing to go get help and rely on other people, then there's no reason why people at home can't. As long as athletes and other people with a bigger platform can show that we go through these things too, then there's no shame in getting help if you're going through it."

Through his own experience as an athlete, Goodrow knows just how important it is to not ignore what's going on in between a person's ears. While not everyone is a professional hockey player, he believes the #BellLetsTalk discussion is a benefit to all, regardless of status or occupation.

"It's all about breaking the barrier of if you're going through something, not to be afraid to come out and say you need help or need to talk about it," Goodrow said. "Especially in the athletic world, you're kind of taught to battle through things or not show weakness and things like that, so when it comes to mental health, it's something you shouldn't have to battle through. You shouldn't have to try to conquer yourself. It's good if you get help and rely on other people to get you through if you're going through a tough time." 1173556 San Jose Sharks

How Sharks' Joe Thornton taught Rick Nash to be a pro in Switzerland

By Brian Witt January 29, 2020 8:00 AM

Joe Thornton currently is in his 15th season with the Sharks after being acquired by San Jose in a trade with the Boston Bruins during the 2005- 06 NHL season. He spent the previous year in Davos, Switzerland while the league remained in lockout, where he paired up with one of the NHL's rising young stars.

More than a decade-and-a-half later, Rick Nash still fondly remembers the time he spent playing alongside one of the most prolific passers to ever play the sport.

"When me and Joe first played together in Switzerland, it was really kind of instant chemistry," Nash recalled to NBC Sports California. "For the first couple games, we played together. On the power play, we played the whole season together. The easy thing about playing with Jumbo was he told you, 'Just go to the net with your stick down. Go to the high slot with your stick on the ice and I'll find you.' We had a lot of success with that over the years, at World Championships, obviously in Davos.

"He's such an easy guy to play with and his skill is so high and his passing ability is so high, it just makes sense why he has that many assists in the NHL."

At last check, Thornton was up to 1,082 career assists, good enough for seventh place on the NHL's all-time list. You don't accumulate that many helpers without being supremely skilled, but as Nash explained, Thornton always has brought a lot more to the table than what he could do with the puck.

"The thing that made Joe different from other teammates was, No. 1, off the ice, he was always a happy guy, always had a smile on his face," Nash said. "He was always around the rink. For me, being a younger guy, he was someone I looked up to on how to be a pro, how to extend my career, how to be good to the other guys that I was kind of taking under my wing. On the ice, it was obviously his skill to make plays and make passes.

"For me and my style of game, I was always a shooter. I always liked to score goals, so we kind of accompanied each other perfectly. To this day, I don't think there's an easier guy to play with than Joe."

To spend 22 seasons in the NHL -- and one in the top Swiss league -- it requires not only an abundance of talent, but competitiveness to match. According to Nash, while he has seen plenty of Thornton's competitive streak on the ice, he experienced it off of it, as well. Specifically, when it came to the board game of world domination known as "Risk."

"We started this game with his brothers and his friends and my friends," Nash explained with a chuckle. "Dinner time would roll around, and we would bring the Risk board to dinner. So if you could only imagine trying to keep all those pieces on the board driving the car through the Swiss mountains to get to dinner to set up our Risk game, and once we got there, guys would be arguing about how many soldiers they had on which country.

"It was always that stuff away from the rink that made hanging out with him so fun."

The Sharks know as well as anyone just how fun and talented Thornton can be. While world domination is a lofty goal, they'd all gladly settle for a Stanley Cup.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173557 San Jose Sharks Playing with Marleau is beneficial, according to Boughner, who put the two of them on a line together for the first time this season for Monday’s game. Gambrell mentioned that the communication with the veteran of more than 1,700 NHL games was key to their productive evening, Dylan Gambrell gets another (final?) chance with the Sharks to show he particularly in the defensive zone. belongs “A lot of times coming back in the D-zone and he’s low, he’ll say ‘Gamby, get wing.’ He’s super helpful on the ice,” Gambrell said. “We’ll get back to the bench and he’s talking to me, giving me advice, things like that. Just By Kevin Kurz Jan 29, 2020 on the ice he’s really reliable, you just know where he’s going to be. He’s really solid. Easy to play with.”

Game 6 of last season’s Western Conference final in St. Louis won’t go Marleau said: “He was hustling all over, caused a bunch of turnovers. I down as the most memorable in Sharks history, as the injury-riddled thought he should have had an assist on my first goal because he turned team was eliminated by the eventual Stanley Cup champion St. Louis the puck over, and then he got an assist on the other one. He was really Blues. good.”

But it was certainly memorable for one player. Dylan Gambrell scored his And what was Marleau communicating to the young centerman? first career NHL goal in the second period, getting behind the St. Louis “Mostly I was like good job, keep going, good job, keep going,” Marleau defense, corralling a long outlet pass from Joonas Donskoi and said. “He played hard, down low, too, defensively he was sound. I just unleashing a wrist shot from the faceoff circle past Jordan Binnington. It kept telling him to keep it up.” brought the Sharks back to within one goal of the Blues, who scored the first two in the first period, but St. Louis eventually pulled away for a 5-1 According to two NHL pro scouts, there’s still plenty to like about triumph. Gambrell’s potential.

That night, Gambrell was helping to fill the void that was left by Joe Said one scout, who has seen Gambrell about half a dozen times this Pavelski, who was injured in Game 5, and Tomas Hertl, who was season: “I think he’s finding his way. He still has a tough time with size in elbowed in the head in that same game two nights earlier at SAP Center. puck battles, not from a lack of try, just needs to get stronger, and it’s coming. He’s a smaller 6-footer. These young players take time. They It was also a reminder of the 2016 second-round pick’s standing on the think they’re working hard but a lot of times they need time to figure out organizational depth chart. Gambrell was almost certainly expected to how to do that. Some get it right away but most take a year or two, or join the NHL roster on a full-time basis this season to help create some of three. I’d be surprised if he wasn’t a full-time player there next year.” the offensive production that departed during the offseason. Another scout said Gambrell “has NHL speed and skill but plays a really But 2019-20 has not been a smooth ride for Gambrell, whom the Sharks light game, meaning, he has trouble containing opponents. In 1-on-1 selected with the 60th overall pick in the 2016 draft. Entering battles he gets close to them but reaches with stick instead of using his Wednesday’s home game with Vancouver, Gambrell has 7 points (2g, body to stop momentum, which allows opponents to keep possession 5a) in 31 games this season. Although he made the opening-night roster, and extend plays. Seen it numerous times this year.” Gambrell was scratched in just the third game in Anaheim. He injured his left hand in late October and that kept him out for three games, and he The possibility exists that Gambrell was recalled to be showcased, as posted just one assist in his next nine games after returning on Nov. 7. there were representatives from five other NHL teams at Monday’s game After a couple more healthy scratches, not much offensive production ahead of the Feb. 24 trade deadline. and some costly misplays in the defensive end, Gambrell was eventually reassigned to the Barracuda on Dec. 18. To Gambrell’s credit, he went down to the Barracuda and produced, posting 12 points (3g, 9a) in his first 13 games for a team that is buried in Now, post All-Star break, he’s back, and it’s fair to wonder how many last place in the AHL’s Pacific Division. more chances the 23-year-old forward will get with the organization, which is in desperate need of having some of its young players emerge Not every player takes the same path, of course, and twice this week as NHL-level talents. Boughner referenced former Sharks center Chris Tierney and forward Barclay Goodrow. Tierney, like Gambrell also a second-round pick, Monday against Anaheim, his first game since Dec. 17, went well. essentially broke through full-time at the age of 21, but for Goodrow, who Gambrell finished with an assist and a +3 rating, and according to was undrafted, it took until last season when he was 25. linemate Patrick Marleau, he should have been credited with another assist on the veteran’s first of two goals in the 4-2 win over the Ducks. “Guys are ready at different times,” Boughner said on Wednesday (Marleau is probably right — Gambrell won a race for the puck and morning. “He’s done a good job of going down (to the AHL) and realizing directed it to Marleau, who then scored on his own rebound.) what he needs to do to be successful at this level. … I think he has to play with that pace all the time, and concentrate on winning his battles MARLEAU’S 1,100 POINT AS A SHARK 朗 and being hard to play against. I think he did that (on Monday). There’s a PIC.TWITTER.COM/BYQQHJHQZX few instances where he made plays in the defensive zone and he knocked guys off pucks. In the faceoff circle he competed hard, and it — SHARKS ON NBCS (@NBCSSHARKS) JANUARY 28, 2020 allowed us to get the entry and create some offense. Those are the kinds On the Sharks’ fourth goal, Gambrell protected the puck along the wall of things I’m thinking about.” before skating behind the net and finding Erik Karlsson, who feathered a Gambrell said: “I feel pretty good. Playing a bunch of games (with the pass to Stefan Noesen for a one-timer that essentially put the game Barracuda) and getting my confidence back, I’m going to just try to carry away. that over.”

That play resonated with interim head coach Bob Boughner, who has Boughner mentioned in his first press availability after the All-Star break stressed that he wants to see the six-foot, 185-pound Gambrell win more that he expects the team to rotate some of its young players in and out of 50-50 battles, not get knocked off of pucks so easily, while remaining the lineup over the next little while. The Sharks’ place in the NHL responsible away from the play. standings surely has something to do with that.

“There’s a few things we watched on video (Tuesday) morning where he It will be up to Gambrell to show that he deserves to stay in the lineup. was first on pucks and wasn’t outside the pile,” Boughner said. “Then when he had nothing on Noesen’s goal, he had nobody. It was basically “It’s a process. You’ve just got to stick with it,” Gambrell said. “I can’t get a 1-on-3, 1-on-4. Instead of just throwing it away, he used his body to down on myself or anything like that, just got to keep going forward, keep protect the puck and he bought some time before we changed the puck getting better, and focus on the little things — winning battles, being on side and (Karlsson) threw it to the slot for Noesen. Those kinds of things. the right side of the puck, being good defensively, going hard to the net. Just playing a little more poised.” Things like that.”

Gambrell said: “I think our line (with Marleau and Marcus Sorensen) — Reported from San Jose played pretty well altogether, getting chances and pretty solid in the D- zone, too.” The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173558 St Louis Blues

Blues updates: Sundqvist to IR, Steen could play Friday

Jim Thomas

CALGARY, Alberta — Just when you thought the Blues were getting healthier . . .

The team placed Oskar Sundqvist on the injured reserve list Wednesday following a lower-body injury Monday in Vancouver. With Sundqvist out, the team has recalled veteran forward Troy Brouwer who was just assigned to San Antonio on Monday.

Asked for a timetable on Sundvist’s potential return, coach Craig Berube said: “I’d say 10 days or so, something like that.

Meanwhile, the prognosis on Alexander Steen is favorable. Very favorable. He did not play in the third period or extra time in Tuesday’s 5- 4 shootout win over Calgary because of a lower-body injury.

“I think he’ll be fine,” Berube said.

So there’s a chance he could play against Edmonton?

“Yes, a very good chance,” Berube said.

The Blues play Friday in Edmonton, the third game of this four-game swing through western Canada.

Mackenzie MacEachern has missed both games after the bye/all-star break with a lower-body injury after someone fell on him in the Colorado game Jan. 18 — the Blues’ last game before the break. But he’s close to being game-ready and Berube called him “possible” for the Edmonton game.

MacEachern was on the ice Wednesday at the Scotiabank Saddledome for an optional skate before the team left for Edmonton later in the afternoon. Not surprisingly since the Blues played games on Monday and Tuesday, it was lightly attended. Goalies Jake Allen and Jordan Binnington, defenseman Robert Bortuzzo and forward Sammy Blais were the only other Blues on the ice.

St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173559 St Louis Blues A five-goal first period featured two power-play scores by Calgary countered by three scores by Blues veterans: Steen, Perron and Jaden Schwartz.

Blues snap their slump, but Berube isn't impressed Steen played in his 745th game for the Blues, passing Brett Hull for fourth on the team’s career list. He is just two games away from his 1000th NHL game, which would come Saturday in Winnipeg, his hometown. Jim Thomas But that’s now in jeopardy because Steen didn't play in the third period

because of a lower-body injury. The severity of the injury? Berube replied CALGARY, Alberta — In recent trips to this city near the Canadian with the standard: “We’ll re-evaluate him tomorrow.” Rockies, the Blues have all but strangled the life out of Calgary with Calgary turned a 3-2 deficit into a 4-3 lead in the second period. relentless checking and tight defensive play. Monahan’s second goal of the night gave the Flames — who entered the That wasn’t the case Tuesday at the Scotiabank Saddledome. The Blues night a lowly 22nd in the NHL on the power play (18.5 percent) — three were loose on defense, porous on the penalty kill and got caught up in power-play goals on three attempts. what was as much track meet as hockey game. Definitely not their “We need to do better, we know that,” Pietrangelo said. “Simple as that. preferred style of play. Our routes were a bit off, clears weren’t great. As bad as it was in 5-on-4, But in a back-and-forth game that was both entertaining and frustrating we found a way 4-on-3 to help us win the game there. So we stepped from a Blues standpoint, St. Louis overcame deficits of 2-1 and 4-3, and that up at the end.” survived a penalty against during 3-on-3 overtime play. But not before Mark Jankowski’s goal midway through the second gave We should also mention that they had a go-ahead goal taken away in the Calgary a 4-3 lead and Zach Sanford’s sixth goal of the season for the third period on a successful offside challenge by Calgary. The Blues 51 seconds into the third period tied it at 4-all. perpetrator? Ryan O’Reilly, believe it or not. It looked like the Blues had taken a 5-4 lead when Perron scored 3½ They also played the entire third period and extra time without alternate minutes into the third, only to be negated by the offside challenge. captain Alexander Steen because of a lower-body injury. “It was very close,” O’Reilly said. “But that’s a mental error by me. . . .It’s When all was said and done, they pulled out a 5-4 shootout win on a little embarrassing. I feel bad for ‘DP’ (Perron) because obviously it was O’Reilly’s shot past Flames goalie . a great shot. But I’m better than that. I know for sure that was a dumb play that cost us the regulation win.” “I just kinda wanted to open him up,” O’Reilly said. “I feel previously in shootouts I’m kind of rushing it a little bit too much and not really trying to They had to settle for two points the really hard way, via the shootout fake and sell the shot. I really tried to come in with a good amount of victory. But not before they escaped that 4-on-3 power play by the speed, sell the shot and try to open him up and find something 5-hole. Flames when Perron was called for holding Tkachuk with 2:04 left in OT.

“It’s about time I scored in a shootout.” To say Perron was unhappy with the call would be an understatement.

O’Reilly, who had two shootout winners late last season, had missed all “I don’t know what to say. It’s a battle that’s one-on-one,” Perron said. three shootout attempts this season. As a team, the Blues were a “Yeah. I’ll just stop cause I’m gonna put myself in trouble.” meager 1-for-12 on shootouts this season in losses to Vancouver, When the Blues needed it most, they were able to kill off a penalty and Arizona and Nashville. send the game to a shootout. But Perron, who scored once in regulation and had another taken away “Great job by the (PK) guys,” Perron said. “We’ve come to expect that. on the offside challenge, scored on the first shootout attempt for the It’s happened a few times already — 4-on-3, 5-on-3s. We got guys that Blues. have a lot of experience that go out there and take care of business, and “I kind of had a feeling I had to shoot that one, the way the ice was for it was great to see.” me,” Perron. “I didn’t feel comfortable making too much of a move and it St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020 went in.”

And that was that. Perron and O’Reilly for the Blues’ first shootout win in four tries this season. Sean Monahan, who scored twice in regulation, and St. Louisan Matthew Tkachuk, who scored once, both missed their shootout attempts against Jordan Binnington. (Monahan hit the post.)

So the Blues ended a three-game winless streak (0-2-1) and a five-game road winless streak (0-4-1) by sweeping the three-game season series with the Flames. They are 31-12-8, good for 70 points, remaining atop the Central Division and the Western Conference.

But from the comments and body language of coach Craig Berube postgame, you would have thought the Blues had lost again. He was not happy — period — with the Blues’ play Tuesday.

“There’s not much to say. It was a bad hockey game,” Berube said. “We came out with two points though, that’s all that matters. What did you guys (reporters) think?”

Well, you got two points.

“Exactly. That’s about it,” Berube said. “That’s not the way we play. Good third period. (But) just way too loose and a lot of things that just weren’t right.”

The Blues got caught up in Calgary’s free-wheeling style and almost got burned several times by the Flames.

“Yeah, we just kind of played into it,” Alex Pietrangelo said. “Especially that second period — with the way that they want to play.

“We know what we didn’t do. We know what we have to do to in order to be successful.” 1173560 St Louis Blues Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko, who was superb against the Blues, didn’t leave a lot of rebounds. And one reason might have been that the Blues didn’t have a ton of traffic in front of him.

Blues notebook: Blais returns but Sundqvist out with injury “If you see it, you’re gonna probably stop it, right?” Berube said. “A lot of times, no rebounds. We went over those things (Tuesday) morning.”

St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020 Jim Thomas

CALGARY, Alberta — Once the Blues activated Sammy Blais from injured reserve Tuesday afternoon, it came as no surprise that the 23- year-old forward would be in the lineup that night against Calgary.

No, the surprise came when coach Craig Berube disclosed that forward Oskar Sundqvist was out with a lower-body injury. Berube said it was not related to the ankle injury that sidelined Sundqvist for six games in late November and early December.

“Not at all,” Berube said. “Totally different.”

Berube said the injury occurred during the third period against the Canucks.

Sundqvist played just 10 minutes, 42 seconds in Monday’s 3-1 loss in Vancouver, easily his lowest ice time since the ankle injury occurred Nov. 27 against Tampa Bay. But he played as late as the 16:09 mark of the final period — or with less than four minutes to play in the game.

“He’ll be reevaluated (Wednesday), we’ll see where he’s at,” Berube said.

When asked if there was any concern that it would be a long-term injury, Berube said: “We don’t know that yet. It is a concern obviously when we lose him. He’s a good player for us. So it is what it is.”

In 44 games for the Blues this season, Sundqvist has 11 goals, which is tied for fifth on the team (with ), and nine assists. A versatile player, Sundqvist has played up and down the lineup — from the fourth line to the first line. He is adept at killing penalties and has even seen spot duty on the penalty kill.

Blais back

With Sundqvist out, Blais was slotted on the fourth line Tuesday against Calgary, playing on a line with Jacob de la Rose and Ivan Barbashev. There were no other lineup changes up front — the three other forward lines were the same as the Blues trotted out in Vancouver.

As for Blais, Calgary marked his first game action since Nov. 19 against Tampa Bay, when he suffered a wrist injury that required surgery. Blais missed the next 28 games. He has been skating with the team for the last few weeks, but Sunday marked his first full practice.

Blais was on a 20-goal pace, with five goals in 20 games, before the injury.

“He’ll bring energy for sure,” Berube said. “He plays an aggressive game. He takes the body. And he’s good with the puck, makes some plays and stuff. He’s been out a long time. So he’s gotta keep it simple, keep the shifts short — that’ll be important for him.”

Bortuzzo out

After playing Monday in Vancouver and flying late night to Calgary, the Blues did not have a morning skate Tuesday. In his pregame remarks 90 minutes before the Blues-Flames puck drop, Berube said there would be no other line changes besides Blais in and Sundqvist out.

But defenseman Robert Bortuzzo, who has played the Blues’ last 17 games, was a pregame scratch. And Carl Gunnarsson, who has played only once since Dec. 12, was back in the lineup paired with Justin Faulk.

Net-front presence

For all the good things the Blues did Monday night in a losing effort in Vancouver, Berube didn’t think the Blues had enough bodies in front of the Canucks’ net.

“Looking at the tape, we have to get to the net better than we have been,” Berube said. “Need a better static net presence on a lot of our shots. Take the eyes away of the goalie a little bit more than we have been. Find some second and third opportunities around the net.” 1173561 St Louis Blues with 9:22 to go in the period. Tkachuk had gone 10 games without a goal and got his 16th of the season.

Ten seconds into another power play -- this time when Ryan O'Reillly Blues snap losing streak with 5-4 shootout win over Flames went off for holding -- Monahan scored from the slot to make it 2-1.

The Blues weren't gone. Perron scored when he redirected a pass from Sanford under goalie David Rittich's pads And then 46 seconds later, Tom Timmermann Jan 28, 2020 Jaden Schwartz redirected in a pass from Brayden Schenn. Perron has 22 goals this season, Schwartz has 17.

The Blues are playing without forward Oskar Sundqvist, who suffered a Jordan Binnington picked up where he left off at the All-Star Skills lower body injury in the Vancouver game. Sammy Blais, just off the competition, stopping both shots he faced in a shootout while Ryan injured reserve list, is making his return to the lineup. Blais, playing on O'Reilly and David Perron scored in the shootout to give the Blues a 5-4 the fourth line, had no shot attempts in the game but four hits. win over the Flames in Calgary. St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020 Binnington won the shootout competition at the skills competition, and he put that to good use, stopping Sean Monahan and Matthew Tkachuk, who he had faced in the Friday event. The Blues came into the game 0-3 on shootouts this season, having scored on only 1 of 11 shots while Calgary was 5-0.

The Blues had lost three in a row overall and were 0-4-1 in their past five road games.

"Not much to say, bad hockey game," Blues coach Craig Berube said. "Two points, all that matters. ... That's not the way we play. Good third period. ... We were way too loose. There were a lot of things that just weren't right. You're not going to have your best all the time."

“I don’t think we played defensively the way we wanted," captain Alex Pietrangelo said, "but I say it about our group all the time, we find a way to win.”

“I’m happy we found a way to win the game," Perron said. "It doesn’t matter (how).”

After two late goals in the first put the Blues ahead, the scoring swung back the other way in the second period as two goals put the Flames up 4-3 on the Blues after two periods.

Special teams were the order of the day. Calgary got three of its goals on the power play and the Blues got one. Monahan got his second goal of the game, again on a power play, to tie the game and a goal by Mark Jankowski with 10:13 to go in the period put the Flames back on top.

The Blues tied the game just 51 seconds into the third period on a goal by Zach Sanford, his second in as many nights. He had the puck on a two-on-one, kept it and shot and scored. The goal came right after Calgary had put a puck off the post at the other end that would have given them a two-goal lead.

It looked a short while later like Perron had scored to put the Blues ahead, but Calgary challenged and the replay confirmed that O'Reilly was in the zone before the puck and the goal was wiped out on offside.

The game went to overtime, where a late penalty on Perron forced the Blues to kill a Calgary power play, which they were able to do for the first time to send the game to a shootout. Binnington saved four shots in overtime.

The Flames had a bunch of odd-man rushes in the second, forcing Jordan Binnington into extra work. For the first time in his career, Binnington has given up four goals in three consecutive games.

The Blues came out on top of a topsy-turvy first period, scoring three times to take a 3-2 lead over the Flames.

The Flames took a 2-1 lead on two power-play goals before the Blues scored twice in 46 seconds in the final two minutes of the period to take the lead.

Alexander Steen got his fifth goal of the season, all since Jan. 9, on a precision pass by Robert Thomas that Steen, driving to the net, quickly shot in. The goal came 5:45 into the game.

Steen left the game in the third period with a lower-body injury and did not finish the game. Berube said he wold be evaluated on Wednesday, though with the Blues likely having a day off, an update may not come until Thursday.

A goal by Tkachuk on a power play got the Flames even. Sanford was in the box after somehow flicking the puck into the stands from basically right next to it. Forty-eight seconds into the power play, Tkachuk got bad wood on the puck but his offspeed blooper crossed up Jordan Binnington 1173562 St Louis Blues MacEachern got a lot of work in Wednesday afternoon during an optional skate at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary before the Blues headed out later in the day for Edmonton.

Blues still not immune to injury bug as Sundqvist heads to IR Besides MacEachern, goalies Jake Allen and Jordan Binnington, defenseman Robert Bortuzzo and Blais were the only Blues participating in the skate, with the light attendance totally expected given the fact the team had played on back-to-back nights. Jim Thomas “Got a good skate today,” MacEachern said. “We got two more skates till

the (Edmonton) game, so it’ll give me two more opportunities to kind of EDMONTON, Alberta — Perhaps sometime later this season, coach get more comfortable and get a better idea of where I’m at. I think we’re Craig Berube will look back fondly on that time when the Blues were the getting close for sure.” picture of health coming out of the all-star break. Although he has only one assist over his past 13 games, MacEachern You know, the time Colton Parayko (upper-body) came off injured has proven to be a solid fourth-liner with six goals and three assists for reserve, Sammy Blais returned from wrist surgery, and Mackenzie the season. He’s a good skater, plays physical and is sound defensively. MacEachern (lower-body) needed just another skate or two to resume And he’s itching to get back in the lineup. game action. “Yeah, especially after the break,” MacEachern said. “You sit there for — The Blues were oh-so-close to having everyone back except for, of what? — eight or nine days. And obviously not playing the past couple course, Vladimir Tarasenko. He’ll be on the mend for another couple of days. So definitely excited.” months following shoulder surgery. When asked about MacEachern’s status, Berube said: “He’s a possible But then, Oskar Sundqvist suffered a lower-body injury in the third period Friday.” Monday in Vancouver. On Tuesday in Calgary, Alexander Steen couldn’t come out for the third period, or overtime or the shootout, because of a But with Sundqvist on IR and MacEachern and Steen not certainties for lower-body injury of his own. Friday, the Blues needed at least another body. So just two days after being assigned to San Antonio, Brouwer is back with the Blues. Faced “I know,” Berube said. “Injuries happen in this game. We’ve had a lot of with the prospect of going back to the minors at age 34, Brouwer was them. But luckily we have good depth and guys have stepped in and given a week to consider his options by general manager Doug filled roles — done a good job.” Armstrong. Blais replaced Sundqvist in the lineup against Calgary, in his first game A couple of injuries later, it looks like there are no options to consider. back in 10 weeks. The Blues finished out the 5-4 shootout win over the Brouwer’s back with the Blues. Flames with only 11 forwards after the Steen injury, with Ivan Barbashev replacing him on the Robert Thomas-Tyler Bozak line. St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 01.30.2020 There was good news, and not-so-good news on the injury front Wednesday. Sundqvist was placed on injured reserve — the second time he’s been on the IR list this season, with Troy Brouwer recalled from San Antonio to take his spot.

Asked for a timetable on Sundqvist’s return, Berube said: “I’d say 10 days or so, something like that.”

If that’s the case, Sundqvist would miss at least five more games. The Blues are about to hit their busiest month of the season with 15 games in 29 days in February.

But the outlook was better for Steen, potentially much better.

“I think he’ll be fine,” Berube said.

“Fine,” as in good enough to play against Edmonton?

“Yes, a very good chance,” Berube said.

The Blues play Friday in Edmonton, the third stop on this four-game swing through western Canada.

If that’s the case, that will make Steen’s family and friends very happy Saturday in Winnipeg. The Blues close out the trip there against the Jets and it would be Steen’s 1,000th NHL game — assuming he makes it back for the Edmonton contest as well. Winnipeg is his hometown.

Steen, who missed 16 games in November and December with a high- ankle sprain, has been playing some of his best hockey lately. He scored the Blues’ first goal against Calgary, and has five goals and five assists over his last 11 games.

MacEachern’s injury has flown under the radar to a degree, mainly because it came during the team’s final game before the bye week and all-star break — on Jan. 18 at Colorado.

“Someone just fell on me, it was kind of weird,” MacEachern said. “Weird play, weird scenario. It was kind of awkward.”

He missed both the Vancouver and Calgary contests, the first games he’s missed since he was a healthy scratch against Montreal on Oct. 19.

“I thought I cemented a role there,” MacEachern said. “So try and get back to where I was and kind of build off that.” 1173563 St Louis Blues “He’s a good goaltender,” Gaudreau said. “You watch him in the playoffs last year, he’s a hard goalie to score against. The first breakaway, I didn’t sell it enough. Second one, I just missed low, he got a quick blocker on it.” Blues get 1st SO win, beat Flames 5-4 St. Louis opened the scoring at 5:45 of the first. Oliver Kylington gave the puck away to Steen, who worked a width-of-the-ice give-and-go with Robert Thomas, with Steen finishing for his fifth goal of the season. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS JANUARY 29, 2020 01:07 AM After power-play goals five minutes apart by Tkachuk and Monahan put

Calgary in front, Perron tied it with 1:19 left. Schwartz’s deflection 8 CALGARY, ALBERTA-For David Perron, Calgary has become his home seconds into a man-advantage made it 3-2 just 44 seconds later. away from home. NOTES: Steen’s goal was his 494th career point, moving him ahead of Up against a team he’s always thrived against and in a building he enjoys Pavol Demitra and into fifth place on the Blues’ career list. Steen later left playing in, Perron had a goal and an assist in regulation and added a the game with a lower-body injury. ... Schwartz played in his 500th game. shootout goal to help the St. Louis Blues beat the Calgary Flames 5-4 on ... Flames RW Buddy Robinson, 28, just up from Stockton (AHL), played Tuesday night. his eighth career game and first since Dec. 10, 2016, when he was with Ottawa. ... Monahan recorded his 400th NHL point. Perron has 17 goals in 39 career games against the Flames, includings 12 goals in 20 games at the Scotiabank Saddledome. UP NEXT

“I like the old barn, maybe. I don’t know,” said Perron, when asked about Blues: At Edmonton on Friday night. his success historically against Calgary. “I always have fun coming up to Flames: At Edmonton on Wednesday night. Canada and playing here, even when I was back with the Oilers.” Belleville News-Democrat LOADED: 01.30.2020 Alex Steen, Jaden Schwartz and Zach Sanford also scored in regulation for the Blues, who got their first win the tiebreaker in four games this season. Jordan Binnington stopped 27 shots to improve to 23-8-5.

Sean Monahan scored twice, and Matthew Tkachuk and Mark Jankowski also had goals for the Flames, who were 5-0 in shootouts. Cam Talbot finished with 30 saves.

The Flames were 3 for 3 on the power play during regulation, and got a fourth man-advantage in overtime, but squandered it.

“It’s obviously a big kill,” said Blues captain Alex Pietrangelo. “Four-on- three’s are never easy, especially late in the game when you’re tired, legs and brain are a little tired. Good time for us to step up and kill that.”

Perron and Ryan O’Reilly scored on St. Louis’ first two shootout attempts, while Monahan and Tkachuk missed their tries.

In a wild back-and-forth game in which both teams blew two leads, St. Louis tied it 4-4 less than a minute into the third period.

After Andrew Mangiapane hit the goal post at one end, the Blues raced up ice on a 2-on-1 with Sanford keeping the puck and ripping a shot over Talbot’s glove.

St. Louis then scored what appeared to be the go-ahead goal less than three minutes later when Talbot muffed Perron’s shot off the wing. However, interim head coach Geoff Ward challenged the play for offside and after video review, the goal was waved off.

“I kind of had a feeling right away,” said Perron, who extended his point streak to four games (2-4-6). “Even going through the line I was asking, ‘is it offside?’ Coming back to the bench I saw coach right away. If it’s a quick challenge like that, it doesn’t go our way very often.”

St. Louis lost 3-1 in Vancouver on Monday night in its first game back after an eight-day layoff. It was the Flames’ first game in 10 days.

“It’s tough to come off (the break) and have two back-to-back games against teams that play heavy and have speed,” O’Reilly said. “It is good though. We got two points tonight. Last night they were available and we didn’t get them. We have to keep building and keep growing our game and get back on track here.”

After taking a 3-2 lead after 20 minutes, thanks to two goals in the final couple minutes of the first period, the Blues’ second lead of the night was erased at 4:40 of the second when Monahan scored off a pass from Johnny Gaudreau, for Calgary’s third power-play goal.

Five minutes later, the Flames surged back in front when Jankowski converted a centering feed from Sam Bennett. It was the second goal in two games for Jankowski after he started the season without a goal in the first 38 games.

Calgary had a chance to go up by two, but on his second breakaway of the period, Gaudreau was thwarted once again by Binnington. After a deke to his backhand didn’t work on his first try, he tried to shoot high blocker side, but again was denied by the Blues’ goalie, who also got a pad on the rebound. 1173564 Tampa Bay Lightning — Pat Maroon (@patmaroon) January 26, 2020 Part of what hit Maroon was the fact at age 41, Bryant was just starting

what many athletes think of as their “second life.” After dedicating 20 Lightning players struck by Kobe Bryant’s death years to the NBA, Bryant was dedicating himself to his family.

With Tampa Bay playing the Kings in the first game at Staples Center Those family years were cut tragically short. since the former Lakers star’s death, the Lightning had a unique “He had his next life to teach his four daughters and be with his wife, to perspective on Bryant and a city grieving. start a second journey,” Maroon said. “His life was too short now.”

Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 By Diana C. Nearhos

LOS ANGELES — Being in the same locker room as Kobe Bryant reduced Kevin Shattenkirk and his friends to awe-struck children.

They weren’t children. Shattenkirk had been in the NHL for nine years when he met Bryant last summer.

The Lightning defenseman was at a wedding at the Resort at Pelican Hill, near Bryant’s home. The groomsmen were in the locker room preparing for the main event when Bryant walked in.

“I remember feel like we were little kids, whispering to each other like ‘there is he is,’ ” Shattenkirk recalled. “He actually approached us, said hello, congratulated my friend on the wedding.”

The Lightning played the Kings Wednesday in the first game held at Staples Center since Bryant’s death on Sunday. With Los Angeles grieving the death of Bryant and eight others in a helicopter accident Sunday, the NBA postponed a Lakers-Clippers game that had been scheduled for Tuesday.

Thank you Kobe for every lesson you never knew you taught me. Your work ethic and devotion to your craft will never be matched. May you and Gianna rest in eternal peace together. pic.twitter.com/lTiarEklgT

— Kevin Shattenkirk (@shattdeuces) January 27, 2020

Fans lined the barricades in front of the arena, leaving signs, flowers, paintings and just about anything you can think of. And that was before Wednesday’s morning skate. Two hours before the Lightning-Kings game, fans were back, adding candles, balloons and jerseys to tributes. There was no celebratory pre-game emotion, just solemn silence. People whispered to each other, afraid to break the still.

Kings players wore Bryant jerseys into the arena, in place of their usual suits. Both teams wore purple t-shirts with a gold heart, inside of which read 24 and 8 in the middle with Kobe and Gigi along the curves, before the game. Before the game, the Kings played a video recognizing Bryant and what he meant to the LA community.

“I think we are all in this sadness together," coach Jon Cooper said.

Tampa Bay defenseman Luke Schenn also knows the feeling of being awestruck by Bryant. Schenn played 43 games for the 2015-16 Kings, who shared a practice facility with the Lakers.

He never met Bryant, but Kobe often sat in the corner near where the Kings take the ice, Schenn said, so the players went right by him before the game. Schenn remembers skating by thinking “Wow, I can’t believe that’s Kobe.”

“When I got traded here, you’re just in awe that you are in the same facility, not as the Lakers, but Kobe Bryant,” Schenn said. “You’d come to a Lakers game to see no one else but Kobe.”

Pat Maroon never met Bryant but the Lightning forward was struck by his death. He learned of it before the Lightning’s practice in Dallas on Sunday, when a reporter standing in front of him reacted to TMZ’s tweet with the news. He was immediately struck. Maroon isn’t a big basketball fan, but he latched onto Kobe-Shaquille O’Neal Lakers of the early 2000s while growing up in an NBA-less St. Louis. He follows Bryant enough to know the helicopter ride was his common mode of commuting.

“I never met him,” Maroon said. “Growing up watching what he does on the court, his craft. Mentally, how tough he was. He put everything together on the court. He dedicated 20 years to his fans.”

I don’t even know how to begin to process this and don’t feel I ever will. Kobe, you were one of my idols and someone I strived to be like. You changed the world and today the world hurts. My heart is broken. Thoughts and prayers to everyone involved in this tragedy. #rip #24 #8 1173565 Tampa Bay Lightning Attend Rowlett Park Rink grand opening The 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. event Friday, Feb. 14 at Rowlett Park, 2401

E. Yukon St., Tampa, will include a youth ball hockey clinic. Tampa Things to do: Nine ways to celebrate ‘Hockey Week in Tampa Bay’ Mayor Jane Castor and current and former Lightning players will attend.

The Lightning are hosting the nine-day event Feb. 9-17 in association Watch local college on Feb. 15 with Hockey Week Across America. Here’s how to participate. Here’s the schedule of collegiate hockey games on that day:

Florida State vs. the University of Tampa, 4 p.m., Clearwater Ice Arena, By Mike Sherman 13940 Icot Boulevard, Clearwater.

The University of Miami vs. USF, 8 p.m., Advent Health Center Ice, 3173 Cypress Ridge Boulevard, Wesley Chapel. Attend Hockey Day in Tampa Bay See the girls hockey 3-on-3 series The celebration starts with a full day of hockey events, officially dubbed Hockey Day in Tampa Bay, starting at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 9 At 6:10 p.m Sunday, Feb. 16, girls from teams in the Tampa Bay area will at with a girls hockey game. A youth hockey game compete in a 3-on-3 scrimmage at Xtra Ice, 6910 Asphalt Ave, Tampa. between Hockey Hall-of-Famer and former Lightning superstar Martin St. The objective is for the girls to provide extra practice time and give the Louis’ team the Junior Rangers and Florida Alliance follows inside Amalie girls an opportunity to meet and play with other girl hockey players. Arena. Celebrate Presidents’ Day with another rink grand opening Other Feb. 9 events: On Monday, Feb. 17, the grand opening of Sadie Park Rink at Brandon * A Lightning Alumni skills competition featuring St. Louis and Lightning Park, 502 E. Sadie St., Brandon, will start with an 8:15 a.m. press legend Vincent Lecavalier; conference, followed by a ball hockey tournament and playoffs. There will be a live DJ, face painter and balloon artist for fans to enjoy through 3 * A sled hockey game with Lightning alumni and the NHL/NHLPA Learn p.m. to Play Jamboree; Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 * An e-sports NHL 20 tournament starting at 10 a.m.

* The event is expected to wrap up at 9 p.m. after the Lightning High School Hockey League championship game.

Tickets: $10 in advance or the day of through ticketmaster.com. All ticket proceeds will be donated to “Because We Love the Game” to support disabled hockey programs in the state of Florida.

Parking: Available at the Pam Iorio and Port Garages, as well as the Pink, Teal and Garrison lots for $5.

Food and beverages: On sale at section 112 beginning at 8 a.m. and section 109 beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Celebrate the grand opening of Ruskin rink

Throughout the celebration, the Lightning will open three community ball hockey rinks as part of the Connect the Thunder program. The first will be at 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10 at Ruskin Parks & Recreation Center, 901 6th St. SE in Ruskin. The event will include three clinics and end with a Lightning watch party for the Lightning-Blue Jackets at 7:30 p.m. from Columbus.

‘Try Ice Hockey for Free’

Children ages 4-12 are invited to try ice hockey for free from 5:10 to 6:10 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11 at Xtra Ice, 6910 Asphalt Ave., Tampa. Spots are limited so register at LightningMadeHockey.com/hwit.

Mitchell High School's hockey team won a 2019 state championship.

Attend the High School Hockey Showcase

The Lightning High School Hockey League will host a showcase game Wednesday, Feb, 12 for all teams from the league heading to the state championships. Teams and a location will be determined a week prior.

Visit an open house at Lightning Made Training Center

On Thursday, February 13, the Lightning’s Community Hockey team will host an open house starting at 10 a.m. at the Lightning Made Training Center, located at 6910 Asphalt Ave. in Tampa. The event will include a pickleball tournament, youth hockey clinics and more, followed by a Lightning watch party for the 7 p.m. home game against the Oilers and an open rink.

Who needs a day when you can have a whole week?

New this year, @lightningmade will kick off a full week of programming starting with Hockey Day in Tampa Bay on Sunday, Feb. 9! #HWITB20

: https://t.co/FHe1LlMbEB pic.twitter.com/7xxiAK9TVW

— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) January 28, 2020 1173566 Tampa Bay Lightning

Lightning’s Erik Cernak scores game-winner against the Kings

Los Angeles drafted the defenseman in 2015 and traded him to Tampa Bay two years later

By Diana C. Nearhos

LOS ANGELES — Erik Cernak made a splash against the organization that drafted him, scoring the game-winner as the Lightning beat the Kings 4-2 on Wednesday.

The Kings drafted Cernak in the second round of the 2015 draft. He never played in the organization and Los Angeles traded his rights to the Lightning as part of the trade for goalie Ben Bishop.

At 4:13 of the third period, Cernak landed a rocket from the point top shelf on goalie Jonathan Quick to put the Lightning on top. The goal capped off a run of three unanswered goals, as the Lightning recovered from a sleepy start.

The Kings got out to a 2-0 by the opening minutes of the second period and the Lighting only put five shots on goal in the first 25 minutes of the game. But Tyler Johnson scored on the team’s first shot of the second period to start turning the tide.

Ondrej Palat carried the puck up the ice in a two-on-one and slid a pass over to Johnson, who deflected it past Quick at the back door.

The Lightning took 12 more shots in that period, shaking off their slow start.

About 12 minutes into the period, Steven Stamkos scored following a strong power-play onslaught. The Lightning poured 10 shot attempts on, never letting the puck out of the zone and thus keeping the first unit on the ice. The Kings killed the penalty, but Stamkos scored a classic one- timer from the left circle 13 seconds later. The goal tied the game up 2-2 at 11:48 of the second period.

Cernak and Stamkos looked to have connected on an insurance goal midway through the third period. They had a two-on-two and Cernak dropped a pass to Stamkos, who scored on wrister. The Kings challenged that Cernak was offsides however and the goal was overturned.

Stamkos finished things off with an empty-netter with 0.5 seconds left.

Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173567 Tampa Bay Lightning You ask Lightning teammates on what it’s like being in a slump, and you see heavy sighs.

“It messes with your head,” Tyler Johnson said. “You’re gripping your With Yanni Gourde in a ‘rattling,’ two-month slump, Lightning teammates stick tight. There are times where every player gets hot and you feel you can relate can’t miss, and other times where you’re slumping and you get the golden opportunity and you hit the post or a knob or the puck bounces over your stick. They’re little things that happen and normally you don’t think about it. But everything gets multiplied, everything gets bigger when By Joe Smith Jan 29, 2020 you’re not scoring.”

Alex Killorn, who has a career-high 20 goals, said a key to his best LOS ANGELES — Yanni Gourde corralled the puck in stride deep in the season has been not focusing too much on the points or scoring. It’s Stars’ zone on a 2-on-1 midway through the third period Monday night. easier said than done when you’re in a drought. “You try not to think about it, or let it linger beyond the rink, but it’s your livelihood. There’s The Lightning forward had accepted a cross-zone feed from rookie pressure,” he said. Carter Verhaeghe and glided into the right circle. Stars goalie Ben Bishop was still sliding from right to left, leaving a wide-open portion of the net. Killorn said when he was in one of his longest slumps, someone told him The defender wasn’t even close. Of all the chances to snap Gourde’s to just shoot five-hole every time. maddening, two-month-long goal drought, it couldn’t get much better than “I don’t know if it worked,” Killorn said, laughing. “But when you’re in that this. situation, you’re willing to try anything.” This is the one, assistant Jeff Halpern thought on the bench. You look at Gourde’s under-the-hood numbers, and they’re not that bad. “I’m sure (Gourde) was thinking that, ‘This is the one,’” Halpern said. He’s expected to score more than he has, but has a low shooting percentage (7.32 percent, lower than depth defenseman Luke Schenn’s Halpern and Gourde had been working together after most practices and 7.69 percent). The first chart, courtesy of Micah Blake McCurdy’s skates. They focused on tips in front of the net. On Gourde’s shot. On @IneffectiveMath, shows the Lightning have more offense at 5-on-5 with rebuilding his confidence. Gourde has racked up 25 goals in a season Gourde on the ice than the average forward (red shows where more before, after all. He didn’t forget how to score. shots are taken, blue where fewer than average are). And it’s worth noting that they’re better in terms of shots against with Gourde on the ice Sometimes, however, prolonged slumps make you feel that way. As (the second chart, where blue shows where fewer shots were allowed captain Steven Stamkos once said, when you’re confident, you feel like and red were more have been). But the third chart shows the Lightning every shot will go in. When you’re off, well, you think you may never see are creating more offense when Gourde isn’t on the ice at 5-on-5. that red light go off again.

As Gourde got deeper into the right circle, he was so close to shaking a mountain-sized monkey off his back. But Gourde didn’t shoot. He passed But coaches say a lot with ice time, and it was interesting that Goude through a couple Stars defenders to Verhaeghe, who was at a bad angle played a little under 11 minutes in Monday’s 3-2 overtime loss, including at the back post. It’s what guys in 28-game slumps often do. The feed just three shifts in the third period. bounced off the tape of Verhaeghe’s stick and harmlessly into the corner. “I think he’s playing well,” Halpern said. “That one with (Stephens) and “Maybe with a little more confidence,” Halpern said, “he would have (Verhaeghe), they’re creating chances, hard on forecheck, hard to play taken the shot.” against. He’s playing well, just not getting the results. Sometimes, it’s opportunity. If you’re on the power play, if you’re getting certain minutes, The bye week couldn’t have come at a better time for Gourde, who has the points follow you. I don’t think he should stray too much from his felt the lingering frustration of his career-long drought. He has six goals in routine. Right now, it’s a confidence thing of him getting one or two and his first 49 games. When I asked Gourde the other day how much ice he they follow suit.” saw during the nine-day break, he laughed. My guess is the main ice he used was the square-shaped cubes you’ll find in adult beverages. And I Midway through Tuesday’s practice, Gourde pounced on a rebound and wouldn’t blame him — it was a well-deserved break for the entire team. scored. He raised his arm in celebration. I’m sure there was a smile or two, maybe a chirp from a teammate. Nobody questions Gourde’s work ethic, his character. Anyone who has taken his path — from undrafted and playing ECHL games at “The Cow But you can bet that the moment Gourde finally scores, the Lightning Palace” to making it to the NHL — is hard to count out. And Lightning bench is going to explode. coaches believe he’s doing a lot of good things. But when you’re in the first year of a six-year deal ($5.166 million cap hit) and have no goals “I’m going to keep going to the net,” Gourde said. “Eventually, one of since Thanksgiving time, it’s going to wear on you. The expectations those pucks that used to hit me every time, they’ll hit me and go in. It’s likely bring a burden. one of those things. I’ve got to just play the right way, just do the little things.” “How do I handle it?” Gourde asked. “I think it’s a matter of working hard and doing the right things. And try to stay positive even though it is really Halpern told Gourde a story a few weeks ago about how Claude Lemieux rattling, really hard not scoring goals. I want to help my team and make a once scored six goals in a season (45 games) for Devils in 1994-95. But difference. The fact I can’t do that for them right now is frustrating. the winger went on to rack up 13 goals in the playoffs to win the Conn Smythe and hoist the Cup. “(Gourde) is a guy we are still counting on,” “There were a few times where I could have put the the game away with Halpern said. a big scoring chance and I’d come back to the room, I’m like, ‘Fuck.’ It’s hard. I’m trying my best.” So, slump or not, don’t count him out.

It didn’t seem like that long ago that Gourde was the energizer on the The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 team’s most effective line. Back in early November, when the Lightning completed their galvanizing, two-game sweep of Buffalo in the Sweden Global Series, it was the Gourde, Pat Maroon and Cedric Paquette trio that forged Tampa Bay’s identity. They were fast. They were relentless. They were tough. They even had a trademark celebration, with Gourde & Co. making a chopping motion after goals (a running joke from something Maroon had said earlier in season). Gourde had a goal in four straight games.

But now Gourde can’t buy a goal. He would if he could. There was his golden opportunity in Philadelphia, when he couldn’t convert a perfect pass from Verhaeghe. There were several tip-in chances up close against the Kings a couple weeks ago. 1173568 Toronto Maple Leafs LW Roope Hintz, tied with Radulov for the Dallas lead with 15 goals, was out because of an upper-body injury. Stars D Stephen Johns, back for two games after a 22-month absence, also didn’t play. The Stars recognized Toronto C Jason Spezza with a big-board highlight video and Maple Leafs set franchise road-scoring record as they top Stars 5-3 PA announcement in his first game back after five seasons in Dallas. The 36th goal for Matthews pulled him within one of the NHL leader, Boston’s

David Pastrnak. Dallas has failed to score in 12 power plays over the THE ASSOCIATED PRESS past four games.

UP NEXT

Mitchell Marner set up Toronto’s first two goals and the Maple Leafs kept Maple Leafs: Host the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. up their high-scoring ways on the road to beat the Dallas Stars 5-3 on Stars: Begin a three-game trip to the New York metropolitan area on Wednesday night. Saturday at New Jersey. Marner’s fancy passes to Auston Matthews and Zach Hyman started Globe And Mail LOADED: 01.30.2020 Toronto on the way to its seventh win in the past eight road games.

“That was beautiful,” Matthews said of his goal. “Kind of caught (the Stars) going the other way, and obviously Mitch made a really nice pass and I just tried to get it up as quick as possible.”

Marner sent a backhand pass from the top of the right circle to Hyman in the slot.

“He’s got such good vision,” Hyman said. “I don’t know if he took a peek before and knew I was coming. I just got right into space and I think Auston made a great play before that, too.”

The Maple Leafs never trailed and set a franchise record with four or more goals in eight straight games away from home.

“It speaks to our ability to score goals and finish,” coach said. “That is the strength of our team.”

Dallas interim coach Rick Bowness had a different perspective.

“If we don’t think about our net first and pay attention to details, we’re going to be giving up goals that we shouldn’t be giving up,” he said. “We gave them three goals, in our minds.”

Tyson Barrie and William Nylander also scored for Toronto. Andreas Johnsson added an empty-net goal with three seconds left, and Frederik Andersen made 31 saves.

The Maple Leafs moved closer to playoff position. They pulled even in points (61) with third-place Florida in the Atlantic Division and Carolina for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference but have played more games than either team.

Alexander Radulov scored two goals and Denis Gurianov had one for the Stars. Ben Bishop stopped 29 shots.

Dallas has lost four of six.

Matthews, Barrie and Johnsson each had a goal and an assist for Toronto.

The Maple Leafs dominated time of possession in the first period, and Matthews finally scored at 12:18. The Stars failed to clear the puck, and Marner sent a pass from the right half-wall to Matthews at the left of the net. He put a wrist shot underneath the crossbar.

Dallas did not have a shot on goal during an 11-minute stretch that ended with a deflection by Andrej Sekera at 14:44. The Stars then rallied to tie the game at 17:21 when Gurianov split two defenders to skate into the slot and lift a wrist shot over Andersen.

Toronto took a 2-1 lead at 4:40 of the second period when Hyman scored off another nice pass by Marner.

“Coming through the neutral zone, I saw that the D was a little bit further back on me,” Marner said. “I saw (Hyman) kind of busting in with some gap and tried to get it to him. He made a great play.”

Barrie’s goal at 11:58 of the second followed a giveaway by Dallas defenceman Jamie Oleksiak, and Johnsson’s shot off the left post that went out to Barrie high in the right circle. His slap shot went through a screen and past Bishop.

Radulov pulled Dallas within one with 58 seconds left in the second and again on a deflection with 13:34 remaining in the game.

Nylander scored at 3:28 of the third period.

NOTES 1173569 Toronto Maple Leafs interesting week ahead with Florida visiting the Scotiabank Arena on Monday in a game sandwiched between a visit by Ottawa on Saturday and a trip to New York on Wednesday to face the Rangers.

Maple Leafs force their way back into the playoff race with win over Start of something? It’s impossible to tell if this two-win start to the Dallas unofficial second half of the season is the beginning of something bigger. But timely scoring, solid goaltending and just enough defence is the recipe the Leafs hope will carry them further up the standings. They’re capable of putting together winning streaks. They won six in a row last By Kevin McGran month, part of a 9-0-1 streak that stands as their high-water mark. That was followed by a 1-3-2 skid they appear to have put behind them. “We need to keep doing it,” Nylander said. “We’re chasing in the standings DALLAS—While the Maple Leafs are chasing a playoff spot, Auston here so we kind of have a playoff push right now. We’ve got to be sharp Matthews is chasing history. every game.”

The Maple Leafs centre scored again — his 20th goal in his last 21 Fantasy lineups: If you’re a fantasy hockey player and the Leafs are games — as Toronto beat the Dallas Stars 5-3 Wednesday night at the coming to town, it might be the night to rest your goalie if you have that American Airlines Center. option. The Leafs have scored at least four goals in eight road games in a row. The feat was last accomplished by Chicago in 2016-17. The 1986- “It’s hard to say it doesn’t surprise me,” said Matthews’ winger, Mitch 87 Oilers have the record of 13. Marner. “I’ve been with him for four years now. I saw him at world juniors. He’s always had that goal-scoring touch. He finds those soft areas with Spezza starts: As has come to be expected with Sheldon Keefe, the no one around him. So he’s done a great job. It’s been fun playing with coach had Jason Spezza line up at centre for the opening faceoff. him. Spezza played in Dallas for five seasons. He took the opening draw against Jamie Benn, usually a winger but Spezza’s closest friend on the “And whenever I give (the puck) to him, I have confidence it could be Stars. After the draw, Benn whacked Spezza on his rear end. The Stars going in the back of the net.” also treated Spezza to a video tribute during the first period. Matthews has 36 goals on the season, one behind David Pastrnak for the Sandin hit: The Stars seemed to target 19-year-old defenceman Rasmus league lead and the coveted Rocket Richard Trophy. The last Leaf to Sandin with physical play. Cody Ceci took a penalty coming to Sandin’s lead the NHL in goals was Gaye Stewart, with 37 in 1945-46. defence in the second period after Comeau slammed the rookie into the Marner set up Matthews for the game’s first goal, with Matthews beating boards. Sandin was also rocked during his first call-up in a game against Ben Bishop up high from in close. the Red Wings. “Usually with the way that he sees the game and just the way that he uses his body, his positioning allows him to roll off those “I don’t need to tell you guys that Auston is a very talented player,” Leafs types of things typically,” Keefe said. “Every now and again, you’re going coach Sheldon Keefe said. “He’s puts himself in good spots. Mitch gave to get caught, but I don’t see it being a trend. If it is, we’re going to have him the puck in a great spot and it’s a world-class finish. We’ve become to monitor that and see what we can do to help him out. I don’t see it accustomed to seeing that and that’s what he’s capable of doing ... When being much of an issue.” he’s really playing and really skating, really engaged in the game, he’s hard to stop.” Up next: Saturday vs. Ottawa, 7 p.m.

Marner and Matthews combined to set up Zach Hyman for the Leafs’ Toronto Star LOADED: 01.30.2020 second goal in a 200-foot play that happened in an instant with five Leafs touching the puck. Tyson Barrie passed back to Travis Dermott behind the Leafs net. Dermott’s outlet pass was tipped by Matthews to Marner in the neutral zone. Marner’s backhand pass found Hyman alone in the slot.

“It’s a nice play all around,” said Matthews.

As Matthews matures as an NHLer, he’s quick to point out that he’s not having this success in a vacuum. The team needs his offence and he’s delivering — the Leafs are 18-3-5 when he scores — but he’s not doing it by himself.

“We’re just trying to stay consistent each night, just compete out there and work off each other and make plays and play as much offence as we can, so I just want to continue that,” said Matthews.

Key stats: William Nylander had a goal and has now scored in five straight games. Tyson Barrie and Andreas Johnsson, with an empty- netter, also scored for the Leafs ... Frederik Andersen stopped 31 shots to earn his 24th victory of the season. He made more than a handful of big saves, including one on a Blake Comeau one-timer midway through the second and a stop on Tyler Seguin on the rush shortly after ... The Leafs went 3-for-3 on the penalty kill and 0-for-2 on the power play ... Alexander Radulov, with two, and Denis Gurianov scored for the Stars.

Holding the lead: The Leafs opened the scoring and were up 3-2 after the second period. That usually bodes well for them. They are now 19-3-1 when scoring first, and 20-1-2 when leading after 40 minutes. The final few minutes in their last two wins have seen the Leafs withstand onslaughts from their opposition, a positive development. “We’ve been finding ourselves in this position quite a bit,” Matthews said. “There have been times in the season and times in my time here over the four years that we haven’t been really good at closing out games, giving up leads. But these last few games in tough buildings, tough atmospheres and close games, we’ve been able to pull it out. So I think it’s a credit to all five guys that are on the ice at that point in time.”

What it means: The Leafs are now ninth overall in the East, having passed idle Philadelphia. They are tied with Florida (third in the Atlantic) and Carolina (second in the wild-card race), all with 61 points, but the Panthers and Hurricanes have games in hand. It all makes for an 1173570 Toronto Maple Leafs “I was giving him a hard time,” Spezza said. I said I talked (to reporters) about how good his hockey sense was and, on the clip, I’m waiting for the puck. So it can’t be that good.”

Leafs teenager Rasmus Sandin is winning over his teammates with his Spezza is quite impressed with the rookie. “He’s very poised with the presence and personality puck and he’s calm on the blue line. Nothing seems to really bug him. He’s a confident kid but kind of quiet, very respectful, likes to have a good time … He’s fitting well to our group.”

By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter Toronto Star LOADED: 01.30.2020

DALLAS—Just 19 months ago, Rasmus Sandin walked through the stands on his way to the stage at the American Airlines Centre. His name had just been called by the Toronto Maple Leafs; Sandin was a first- rounder, the 29th pick in the 2018 NHL draft.

He said he felt “a lot of joy” that night. “I was with my family, a couple of friends, too. It was an unreal experience,” said Sandin, who was happy to relive the moment before playing his 11th NHL game, against Dallas, on Wednesday. “That’s the first step you take toward the NHL, and a big dream that you have (had) since you started playing hockey. So, a lot of good memories from that ... it’s fun to be back.”

The Leafs had the 25th pick in that draft, and the Soo Greyhounds defenceman knew the team had interest. The Greyhounds were Leafs GM Kyle Dubas’s old OHL team, and his knowledge of its talent pipeline was expansive.

But Dubas, running his first draft for the Leafs, traded down, sending his first selection to St. Louis for the 29th and 76th picks. Sandin was nervous; he was nervous the whole night.

“I don’t know if it was just about slipping (close) to the second round,” he said. “You were just nervous to see where you were going to go. It ended up pretty well. You get very happy when you hear your name and I couldn’t be happier that it was Toronto that took me. I’m really excited still, and very happy about that.”

The Blues picked winger Dominik Bokk, currently in the Swedish Hockey League. The Leafs got Sandin and, with the 76th pick, Peterborough forward Semyon Der-Arguchintsev.

It’s remarkable how quickly the 19-year-old has risen, justifying his decision to leave Sweden at 17 to play for the Greyhounds. He passed Timothy Liljegren, chosen by the Leafs in the first round in 2017, on Toronto’s depth chart. And he rose quickly to the NHL, making the team out of camp this season for the first six games.

“You want to get to the NHL as quick as possible,” Sandin said. “I don’t know if I thought (it would happen this fast) but I’m always trying to get better.”

And on his second chance with the Leafs this season — this one because of an injury to — he seems ready to make the most of it. Sandin scored his first goal Monday against Nashville.

“Since the second call-up, I think pretty much every game so far I’ve been comfortable,” he said. “Just knowing all the guys, and knowing how the league is, obviously helps.”

The word that best describes Sandin is “poised.” It’s the word scouts and coaches have used to describe him for years. Another descriptor could be “level-headed.” He said his phone “exploded” with well-wishers, including past teachers, after he scored his first goal. But he was going to stay off his phone and off social media for the next little while so it didn’t go to his head.

“He doesn’t take himself too seriously,” Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe said. “He recognizes he has talent and ability and he’s confident. Yet I think the fact that he’s endeared himself with his teammates as quickly as he has at such a young age, a lot of that is because of the fact that he doesn’t get ahead of himself.

“He’s grateful for the opportunity to play in the NHL and be around these guys. And he’s just doing his part.”

Teammate Jason Spezza poked a little fun at Sandin in a Wednesday video session, noting a spot where he was wide open and Sandin didn’t pass him the puck.

Sandin laughed: “He was all open for a one-timer and I took the shot, so he was just telling me to pass the puck.” 1173571 Toronto Maple Leafs

Wednesday NHL game preview: Toronto Maple Leafs at Dallas Stars

By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter

AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER

FACEOFF: 7:30 p.m.

TV: Sportsnet

RADIO: Sportsnet 590 The FAN

NEED TO KNOW

How’s he Benn? Jamie Benn has his first multi-goal game since Nov. 19 when he scored a pair, including the overtime winner, in a 3-2 decision over Tampa Bay on Monday. “Jamie has been doing a lot of things for this team that doesn’t necessarily get the recognition night in and night out: big hits, fighting guys, he’s been doing a lot of good things,” Dallas goalie Ben Bishop told NHL.com. “It’s nice to see him get rewarded.” Benn’s 14 goals are second on the Stars. His 25 points are third.

Looking for offence: Dallas (28-17-4) sits in a playoff spot despite an offence scoring just 2.57 goals a game, 28th in the league. The Stars’ defence, which has allowed just 2.45 goals against a game, is No. 1. Coach Rick Bowness told the Dallas Morning News he and his staff looked at a lot of video over the break to try to find ways to score more. “We looked at a lot of games, what we did well offensively, where we have to be better offensively. I gave all of the coaches an assignment,” Bowness said. “We’re a hard-working team, we’re a good defensive team, and we can win games. But it gets very frustrating when you lose games 2-1.”

Roster notes: The Stars lost two players to injury Monday. Forward Roope Hintz left the game after sustaining an upper-body injury during his first shift. Stars forward Andrew Cogliano left the game at 13:41 of the second period with a lower-body injury. Both were listed as day to day … Defenceman Stephen Johns played his second game since returning from almost a two-year absence due to post-traumatic headaches.

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UP NEXT

Saturday vs. Ottawa, 7 p.m.

Toronto Star LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173572 Toronto Maple Leafs “Getting wins like this on the road, a late penalty kill (Jason Spezza sweating the minor) their goalie’s out for a long period of time, those are tough, tough sequences,” Keefe said. “You’re relying on a small number of guys to get that done. The guys just found a way.” Maple Leafs set team goal-scoring road record in win over Stars Frederik Andersen made 31 saves, while John Tavares won two of his eight draws in the final minute with Ben Bishop on the Stars bench.

Lance Hornby Toronto, a game below .500 at SBA, stayed over in Dallas on the advice of their sports science team to have a better sleep pattern before taking

Friday off ahead of facing Ottawa at home Saturday. DALLAS — The four-score Maple Leafs love being on the road again Toronto Sun LOADED: 01.30.2020 more than Willie Nelson.

With the kind of offensive fireworks that contravene traditional caution in away games, they’ve now set a club record with eight straight road contests with at least four goals, excluding shootouts. They beat the Dallas, the NHL’s stingiest goals-against team to break it on Wednesday, 5-3, to sweep a two-game southern swing.

The 2016-17 Chicago Blackhawks were the last club to get the 4/8 split while the ’86-87 Edmonton Oilers have the league mark of 13 victories with four-plus goals according to NHL Stats.

“We’ve definitely been starting strong on the road, you score the first, you more often than not win,” said Zach Hyman. “I don’t think you change home or road, you have to play consistent, play your style. We’re an up- tempo, high paced team so we have to stick to our strengths. Make sure while we’re doing that, we’re picking our spots.”

The two hottest Leafs scored, Auston Matthews with his 36th as he battles David Boston’s Pastrnak among others for the league lead, while William Nylander made it five games in a row with a goal, one off Matthews’ team high of last season.

But it was a 200-foot tic-tac-toe tally that defined the evening for Toronto at American Airlines Center.

In the second period from behind his own net, defenceman Travis Dermott surveyed the landscape and spotted Matthews hanging around centre. Matthews knocked down the stretch pass with an eye to Mitch Marner coming through neutral ice, Marner delivering a blind backhand pass to an open Hyman.

“Just a beautiful hockey goal,” said Nylander of his prime view on the bench. “We were all just smiling watching that.

“We need to keep doing that on the road. We’re chasing in the standings, pushing for a playoff spot (still not there after their pre-break slump), so we have to be sharp every game.”

Hyman said he was “screaming” for the puck, not sure if Marner would hear him.

“I had speed and saw their D was a little further back on me,” Marner said. “Mats got his chip to me and I saw Hymie busting in with gap on whoever was on his back. Great goal.”

Marner also set up Matthews’ game opener, but the Leafs still needed Tyson Barrie to keep them up by two midway through, a goal where Andreas Johnsson and Kasperi Kapanen collected some badly needed points. Johnsson had been quiet since an assist Nov. 30, prior to breaking his foot. He added an empty netter, while Barrie now has a four- game points streak.

Johnsson and Kapanen are seen as potential trade bait to get help on defence or goaltending depth. As the Leafs finished January with a record of 5-3-2 and the Feb. 24 trade deadline loomed, a league exec told Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman the Leafs are actively pursuing a right handed defenceman on many fronts. One name being heard around the league, with the Minnesota Wild possibly dropping out of the playoff race, is Mathew Dumba, despite having a full three years’ salary still on the books.

Despite the Stars holding the hot Tampa Bay Lighting to two goals on Monday, the Leafs managed to thwart them a couple of times by cutting off breakouts and out-numbering them in their own end. Yet coach Sheldon Keefe didn’t see enough cycle time behind the Dallas defence for his liking and there were coverage problems that resulted in Denis Gurianov and Alexander Radulov open for goals. Rasmus Sandin was out-hustled to a puck and Cody Ceci lost Radulov on one of the latter’s two goals, but the Leafs gave Ceci the game MVP basketball for his wider body of defensive work. 1173573 Toronto Maple Leafs had a nice bond from day one. We talk on the phone, but it’s not the same when you can sit down and enjoy a few laughs. This was one of those time you don’t want dinner to end.

Maple Leafs Snapshots: Ring's the thing for Rick Bowness “Winning playoff rounds bonds your team and we had a year (2015-16) where we led the Western Conference in wins and were scoring lots of goals. That was a fun year. Seeing Benny win the scoring race was pretty cool, the year we were out of the playoffs (but) it gave us Lance Hornby something to motivate us.”

RAZZ UP DALLAS — Rick Bowness began his morning media briefing with a trivia The last time Rasmus Sandin had his name announced at AAC was a question — who was the last Maple Leaf to lead the NHL in scoring year and half ago, called to the podium as the Leafs’ late first-round draft points? pick. When a visiting scribe correctly named Gordie Drillon, the Stars interim “That was an unreal experience, the first step to the NHL,” Sandin coach then showed off Drillon’s 1938 NHL all-star team gold ring he remembered. “I couldn’t be happier Toronto took me. I wanted to get to planned to wear behind the bench Wednesday night. It had been given to the NHL as soon as possible and now, I want to try and get better.” Bowness’ late father, Bob, by Drillon to mark their friendship as players back in their home province of New Brunswick, Bob for a Canadiens’ Sandin recalled his more humble entrance to AAC last time, through a organization so stacked at the top level he never played an NHL game. spectator gate with his parents and not on a VIP bus. He’s just getting around to answering the flood of texts and e-mails about his first NHL “I don’t wear it very often,” the Moncton-born Bowness said as he took it goal on Monday. Among the most touching, a congratulatory message off to display for cameras. “We always spent a lot of time with Gordie from a couple of his old grade school teachers in Sweden. The puck itself when I was a kid.” is headed to “someplace nice” in his home back there. Drillon’s feat goes so far back that the Art Ross Trophy had not yet been LOOSE LEAFS named and cast for the league’s top scorer. Drillon had 26 goals and 52 points that year and was a two-time all-star right winger. Polak sounded sad that old coach had been fired in Toronto, saying they had a great relationship. “Of course you have The chances of a Leaf winning the Ross are greatly increased with problems, but you have problems with every other coach. I had (give and Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner around. Before Wednesday’s game take) with him. Maybe that’s what he needed sometimes – feedback” … Toronto had put together an impressive streak of seven consecutive road Sandin’s season won’t necessarily be over if the Leafs don’t make the games with at least four goals, its longest since 1983. The Leafs were playoffs or get eliminated early. As long as his name is included on the about to run right into the buzzsaw of the league’s lowest goals against Marlies eligible list at the NHL trade deadline, he can go back for any team, with 122, so the fan in Bowness was excited. AHL playoff action … Kasperi Kapanen returned after hurting his elbow “Man, I love (the Leafs’) creativity. They’re great on the rush and you can and leaving the game in Nashville. see they’re making an effort to play a more structured game defensively. Toronto Sun LOADED: 01.30.2020 “We have great goaltending and when we’re on our game, we don’t give up a lot of chances. Whatever you get from us, you’ll have to earn.”

ROMAN SOLDIER

Roman Polak forewarned the Leafs he was “going to hit everyone” on his old team and despite the twinkle in his eye delivering the line to reporters, no one doubted him.

“It’s one of those scenarios, you’d love him on your team, but he’s not too fun to play against,” said Matthews. “He’s physical and doesn’t mind giving you a couple of cross checks. I sat next to him in the stalls at the practice rink for a couple of years and got to know him well.”

Approaching age 34, Polak looks as brawny as ever.

“With me, you know what you’re going to get. You’re not signing me to score 10 goals or put up 40 assists. They still like it here, if they didn’t, I’d be gone.

“I’m not getting any younger, but I don’t change much. I train with (younger Czech NHLers) Radek Faska and Ondrej Palat. They push me forward.”

Bowness is certainly grateful to add him to the Stars’ mix, which is mostly defence by counter-attacking speed.

“Roman competes as hard as anyone in the league. You’re going to get banged and hacked and whacked. You’re going to pay a price against him. He’s experienced enough to know when to give a little room and when to take it away.”

A SPEZZA-PALOOZA

It’s a good thing the Leafs came to Dallas a full day early, then planned to stay Wednesday and fly home next morning. It gave Jason Spezza more time to meet a long receiving line of friends and well wishers from his five years as a Star. The team was to show a first-period tribute video.

Spezza and his wife were raising four daughters here and he caught up Tuesday for dinner with close teammate and Dallas captain Jamie Benn.

“He’s salt of the earth, cares abut his teammates, loves the game, shoulders a lot of the load and pressure here,” Spezza said of Benn. “We 1173574 Toronto Maple Leafs injury against the Bolts, replacing him with Justin Dowling, while forward Andrew Cogliano is a game-time decision.

Toronto Sun LOADED: 01.30.2020 Stars interim coach Rick Bowness hopes lucky ring can help beat Maple Leafs

Lance Hornby

DALLAS — Rick Bowness brought out some old Toronto bling for some reverse luck against the high-scoring Maple Leafs.

The interim coach of the Dallas Stars showed off the 1938 gold NHL all- star ring that belonged to Gordie Drillon, the Leafs’ last scoring champion in 1937-38, a gift to Bowness’s father Bob from when the latter and Drillon were pro hockey pals in Saint John, New Brunswick.

“I don’t wear it very often,” the Moncton-born Bowness said of having it on tonight at American Airlines Center. “We always spent a lot of time with Gordie when I was a kid.”

Drillon’s feat is so far back that the Art Ross Trophy had not yet been cast to give the league’s top scorer. He had 26 goals and 52 points that year and was a two-time all-star right winger.

The chances of a Leaf winning a Ross are greatly increased with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner around. Toronto has also put together an impressive streak of seven consecutive road games with at least four goals, its longest since 1983. But they’ll run right into the buzzsaw of the league’s best team in terms of goals against, Dallas a league low 122.

“Man, I love (the Leafs’) creativity,” Bowness said. “They’re great on the rush and you can see they’re making an effort to play a more structured game defensively.”

Bowness sees his team applying the same game plan as it did Monday in edging the streaking Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2, which is to think shutdown and get offence from defence.

“We have great goaltending (Ben Bishop plays Wednesday) and when we’re on our game, we don’t give up a lot of chances,” Bowness added. “Whatever you get from us, you’ll have to earn.”

The Stars like to use their speed as a weapon on defence, but employ at least one old-school blueliner in former Leaf Roman Polak.

“Roman competes as hard as anyone in the league,” said Bowness. “You’re going to get banged and hacked and whacked. You’re going to pay a price against him. He’s experienced enough to know when to give a little room and when to take it away.”

This will be an emotional evening for Leafs forward Jason Spezza, his first game back here since signing with his hometown team. Spezza spent five seasons in Dallas where he and his wife were raising four daughters. He dined with close teammate Jamie Benn Tuesday evening and the club had a video tribute planned in the first period.

“Winning playoff rounds bonds you and we had a year (2015-16) where we led the Western Conference in wins and were scoring lots of goals,” Spezza said. “That was a fun year. Seeing Benny win the scoring race was pretty cool, the year we were out of the playoffs at the end (but) it gave us something to motivate us.”

Spezza looked forward to the video.

“It never hurts seeing yourself score goals when you’re playing a game,” he quipped.

Rookie defenceman Rasmus Sandin comes back to the AAC a year and a half after being called to the podium as the Leafs’ late first-round draft pick. On Monday in Nashville he scored his first NHL goal. He recalled taking the pedestrian entrance to the AAC with his family, not the VIP gate.

“That was an unreal experience, the first step to the NHL,” Sandin remembered of the draft. “I couldn’t be happier Toronto took me. I wanted to get to the NHL as soon as possible and now, try and get better.”

Coach Sheldon Keefe forecasted no lineup changes for the game after Kasperi Kapanen returned to practice from hurting his elbow in Monday’s win in Nashville. Bowness had to scratch forward Roope Hintz after an 1173575 Toronto Maple Leafs Matthews has six five-on-five goals in that stretch, and Marner has set up all of them — all but one of them being the primary helper.

There’s some noise with the on-off numbers between Marner and Mitch Marner is justifying that big contract for the Maple Leafs — and Matthews this season (61 percent expected goals together), at least flying under the radar in the process when stacking it up against the connection Nylander had with Matthews earlier in the year. For one thing, the Leafs offence has exploded under Sheldon Keefe (more chances, more goals), and under the new Leafs coach, Marner and Matthews have occasionally had another star on their By Jonas Siegel Jan 29, 2020 line. Sometimes Nylander, sometimes John Tavares.

In those minutes, albeit limited, the Leafs have predictably destroyed DALLAS — Maybe it’s because he’s running shotgun with Auston teams. Matthews, the hottest shooter in hockey with 20 goals now in the past 21 But regardless, there’s a connection brewing between the Leafs’ wiliest games. Maybe it’s because William Nylander seems to be scoring every passer (apologies to Nylander) and dangerous shooter. A couple of night, now with a goal in five straight games for the second time this numbers that really stick out: Matthews has fired 12.5 shots per 60 season. minutes when he plays with Marner this season versus 9.8 with Whatever the reason, Mitch Marner’s fourth NHL season feels like it’s Nylander. He’s had six-plus high-danger shot attempts per 60 with being slightly overlooked, especially in light of the fireworks that got it Marner, compared with around four with Nylander. started. The offseason contract dispute between the Leafs and Marner Again, there’s some noise in there, but it also makes a lot of sense. extended all the way into the second day of training camp. Marner Marner is always thinking pass. Nylander is sometimes (rightfully) parachuted into Newfoundland not long after his six-year, $65 million thinking shoot. contract was announced. Matthews is benefiting, scoring 2.3 goals per 60 with Marner, versus 1.4 It’s only Year 1, but so far at least, the 22-year-old is justifying that very with Nylander. large deal with the very large $10.8 million cap hit — seventh-biggest in the NHL this season. The most prolific scorer to enter the league since Alexander Ovechkin, Matthews is going to burn goalies no matter whom he plays with, but Marner is up to 50 points in 40 games after two crafty assists in a win Marner is clearly opening up extra avenues. over Dallas on Wednesday night (the kind that tend to feel normal with Marner but really aren’t). He’s on pace for 89 points in only 71 games. Marner’s five-on-five numbers have actually taken a slight dip this year, which was to be expected after last season’s bonanza (11 percent on-ice Nobody in the past decade has managed to stack up that many chips in shooting percentage). But on the year, his production still remains elite — so few games. Marner looks like a strong bet to get there. just outside the top 20 in points per 60 and fifth, more impressively, in “He’s a special player,” Matthews said of Marner following the latter’s assists per 60. Scratch off his sluggish start to the season, in which the 10th multi-assist game this season. “He makes plays all over the ice. Not team was in a funk and both his regular linemates (Tavares and Hyman) many people see the game like he does.” were out at various times, and Marner rises to third in points per 60 and fourth in assists per 60. Take Marner’s first assist in Big D, in which he fires a dart to Matthews in the slot almost immediately after he gains control of the puck. Marner He’s a star performing again like a star. said afterward that he saw a stick but wasn’t sure whether it belonged to What’s really fueled the spike in Marner’s overall production this year — Matthews or Zach Hyman. he’s 10th in points per game — is his work on a reinvigorated power play  MARNER-VISION ACTIVATED#LEAFSFOREVER #BELLLETSTALK that’s been tops in the league under Keefe. Marner has already picked PIC.TWITTER.COM/NMCL5FYLQP up 17 power-play points in just 40 games after totaling 21 in 82 last season. — TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS (@MAPLELEAFS) JANUARY 30, 2020 Meanwhile, he remains a staple on the Leafs’ top penalty-killing unit (the The other dime was more hype-worthy. How many players in hockey underlying numbers there aren’t quite as bright) while soaking up a make that play? How many even see Hyman there? How many place it career-best 21 minutes a night, a top-10 mark among NHL forwards. perfectly for him on a backhand from along the boards while getting cross-checked? “I know that he likes to play a lot,” Keefe said after the Dallas game, in which Marner led every Leaf in ice time but Jake Muzzin, stacking up “That was just a beautiful hockey goal,” Nylander said, glowing. “You’re nearly 22 minutes. “He’s a guy that’s kinda always looking at you and just smiling on the bench when you see that go in. It was beautiful.” wants to be out there, expects to be out there, and you like that about him. He wants to be in the moment and wants to be a difference-maker.” Hyman said he was screaming for the puck but wasn’t sure if Marner spotted him. He definitely did. Marner became a first-time All-Star this season, grabbing the last spot for the Atlantic Division, as voted by fans (who clearly noticed what he was “He’s so cerebral,” Hyman observed later of Marner. “He gets (the puck), up to). and he’s always been patient, but now I think he can just see what play is available before he gets the puck so that when he gets it, he kinda knows In addition to his two assists against the Stars, Marner also drew a power what’s gonna happen. Only elite, elite players are able to see the game play for the Leafs and did other things to drive the action. At one point, he down like that. He’s able to slow it down, and he’s so good with his hands threaded a pass from his own zone that sent Matthews and Hyman in for and his body position; it’s very hard as a defender to stick on him. He’s a two-on-one rush that ended in a scoring chance. On a Stars power play very elusive and slippery. He makes a move and he’s able to pass it right in the third period, meanwhile, Marner closed quickly on Tyler Seguin away. along the boards and helped pry the puck free and out of the zone.

“It’s really difficult, and he does what Mitch does and makes those plays.” “The offensive instincts that he has really translate to his defensive game as well,” Keefe said. “His ability to read plays and close space, get his Marner has been making them regularly throughout his career, but he’s stick on pucks, create turnovers, all that kind of stuff, he’s very good at been on a tear especially since he returned from a high ankle sprain in that.” early December. From that point forward, a stretch of 22 games, Marner has piled up 32 points, which trails only Artemi Panarin, who has the Marner might not be giving the Leafs value like Nylander, on pace for 39 second-highest cap hit in the league ($11.642 million) after Connor (!) goals and 74 points at $6.9 million on the cap, but he’s delivering what McDavid. he should for the kind of coin he’s making. It feels right to expect he will for the life of the contract. Unlike Dallas’ two cornerstones, for instance, Marner’s 23 helpers in that span sit behind only Florida’s Jonathan Seguin and Jamie Benn, both of whom are aging, underperforming and Huberdeau. locked up for the long term, Marner is young, performing and still on the A big chunk of that — about 14 games — includes a first-time experience rise. playing regularly with Matthews. He finally turns 23 in May. The Leafs are getting their money’s worth.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173576 Toronto Maple Leafs Frederik Andersen (G, #31) — Evaluating goaltenders is never easy, but I thought Andersen looked solid. His rebound control was a bit iffy, and he hasn’t looked comfortable coming out of his crease to play the puck in quite some time, but he did an excellent job of getting to his spots at the Leafs Report Cards: Zach Hyman is a grinder, and that’s what the Leafs right time to make some big-time saves. He made a few key stops from needed dangerous areas, most notably on Mattias Janmark’s partial breakaway, Joe Pavelski’s cross-seam one-timer and Blake Comeau’s hard wrister

from the slot. This is a step in the right direction for Freddie, who’s slowly By Ian Tulloch Jan 29, 2020 starting to look more like himself after the All-Star break.

William Nylander (RW, #88) — He just keeps scoring.

What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? HIGH 🖐️

We got a glimpse of it Wednesday night, with the Leafs’ high-powered MAKE IT FIVE STRAIGHT GAMES WITH A GOAL FOR offence running into arguably the best defensive team in the NHL. The @WMNYLANDER!#LEAFSFOREVER #BELLLETSTALK Dallas Stars did a good job of keeping Toronto to the outside in the PIC.TWITTER.COM/7DXOO20O2P offensive zone while generating lots of quality chances themselves. Thanks to some magic from Mitch Marner, a few key blocks and some — TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS (@MAPLELEAFS) JANUARY 30, 2020 strong goaltending from Frederik Andersen, the Leafs were able to come Sometimes when you’re hot like this, the puck tends to follow you out with two points even though they didn’t play their best hockey. around. Nylander’s been on quite the tear lately, with his latest tally We’ll try our best to break things down at the micro level now as we dive putting him on pace for 39 goals. I can already hear James Mirtle saying, into the individual player grades. “I say he does it.” In all seriousness, I’d say 35 is a safe bet, which is some pretty good bang for your buck at $6.96 million. He’s playing with a Player reports ton of confidence and making high-end plays off the rush, and he’s finally getting rewarded for it on the scoresheet. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rasmus Sandin (LD, #38) — Some people like to make fun of the “zone Game Ball : Zach Hyman (LW, #11) — Even though Mitch Marner had exit” GIFs we make of Sandin, but how can you not love little plays like two spectacular assists, there’s something to be said for the playoff these? intensity Hyman played with down the stretch. NOT EVEN A CLEAN HIT FROM THE 207 POUND JAMIE BENN IS HOW COULD YOU NOT LOVE HYMAN? GOING TO STOP SANDIN FROM MAKING A CLEAN SLIP-PASS TO PIC.TWITTER.COM/V326K4RGVV GENERATE A ZONE-EXIT. PIC.TWITTER.COM/PA3EQYY0UV

— NICK DESOUZA (@NICKDESOUZA_) JANUARY 30, 2020 — NICK DESOUZA (@NICKDESOUZA_) JANUARY 30, 2020

There’s a reason everyone speaks so highly of this guy. He isn’t the most The fact he’s able to hold on to the puck there and still make a heads-up skilled hockey player in the world, but he brings this kind of effort every play to an open teammate is part of the reason so many Leafs fans are night. His relentlessness without the puck helped force a few key excited about Sandin. His vision and confidence are already that of a top- turnovers late to help Toronto seal the victory. He also potted a goal and four NHL defender, and once his body catches up in a few years, I really started one of the least likely feuds in the NHL. think he has the potential to be something special.

THIS ZACH HYMAN VS. BEN BISHOP RIVALRY IS NOT SOMETHING ⭐⭐⭐ I EXPECTED, BUT I'M SO HERE FOR IT. Tyson Barrie (RD, #94) — I have an article about Barrie coming out — IAN TULLOCH (@IANGRAPH) JANUARY 30, 2020 Thursday morning, and Wednesday offered a good example of some of the reasons he’s such a confusing player to evaluate. Offensively, he Mitch Marner (RW, #16) — He probably deserved player-of-the-game was dynamic. He made a great pokecheck to keep the puck in on the honours after creating two goals out of nothing, but on a random Matthews goal, picking up a secondary assist. Then he let go a bomb Wednesday night in late January, I felt as though I had to reward Hyman from the point, which I’m sure had most fans screaming, “No … no … for swinging the momentum in the third period through sheer YES!” determination. That doesn’t take anything away from Marner’s performance; he made a few great passes to get his linemates into wide- 3, 2, 1…. #LEAFSFOREVER #BELLLETSTALK open space in front of the net. PIC.TWITTER.COM/GT8YC0SZND

 MARNER-VISION ACTIVATED#LEAFSFOREVER #BELLLETSTALK — TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS (@MAPLELEAFS) JANUARY 30, 2020 PIC.TWITTER.COM/NMCL5FYLQP He’s clearly a talented offensive player, but he also had some pretty — TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS (@MAPLELEAFS) JANUARY 30, 2020 rough moments defensively. There were a few rushes for Dallas when Barrie didn’t take his man or the pass through the middle of the ice, He also set up Hyman with a no-look pass in the slot for Toronto’s which is just asking for trouble. We do have to give him credit for the second goal. When Marner’s feeling it, he can change the game in a awkward-looking block he made to take away a Grade A scoring chance, blink of an eye. It happened twice against Dallas, which ended up being but we also have to concede that his pairing got hemmed in too often at the difference. even strength.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jake Muzzin (LD, #8) — This was a bit of an up-and-down game for Auston Matthews (C, #34) — As you can see in the video above, he Muzzin. He made a great play to jump up in the play when Matthews was doesn’t miss very often from in tight. The way he’s able to make a quick wheeling the puck around the net, resulting in a great scoring chance little move with the puck before tucking it upstairs must drive goalies from the slot. Then he got a bit shot-happy, taking too many wasted crazy. What a lot of us forget is Matthews can also be a very creative shots from the outside. He also got beat for a two-on-one after jumping passer in transition. up in the play, which is something he has to be careful with considering his foot speed. To help balance things out, he made a great play in the MATTHEWS CHIPS IT OFF TO MARNER WHO HITS HYMAN WITH A neutral zone to leap off the ground and grab the puck out of the air and GREAT FEED AND IT'S 2-1 LEAFS!#BELLLETSTALK advance it up the ice with his stick, leading to the Nylander goal a few PIC.TWITTER.COM/KTLMTUGDIA seconds later.

— LEAFS ALL DAY (@LEAFSALLDAYY) JANUARY 30, 2020 Coaching staff — I’ve seen a lot of criticism concerning the Leafs over the past week or so, which is why I think it’s important to point out they’ve This wasn’t his most dominant game with respect to controlling the flow been playing excellent hockey under Sheldon Keefe. It’s easy to nitpick of play, but whenever you make two unreal plays that result in goals for in this market, but when you’re complaining about the playoff race, your team, it’s hard to get too upset with your performance. You need maybe Keefe isn’t the problem. high-end talent to pull off the moves he made. THE @MAPLELEAFS HAVE SCORED 4+ GOALS IN EACH OF THEIR — FOX SPORTS SOUTHWEST (@FOXSPORTSSW) JANUARY 30, LAST EIGHT ROAD GAMES – THE LONGEST SUCH RUN IN 2020 FRANCHISE HISTORY. #NHLSTATS PIC.TWITTER.COM/FB6A58DHZV He got caught flat-footed on Dallas’ neutral-zone regroup, and it ended up costing the Leafs a goal. I didn’t think Kerfoot did enough to make up — NHL PUBLIC RELATIONS (@PR_NHL) JANUARY 30, 2020 for it offensively the rest of the game, which is why he finds himself in the one-star club. Do they need to clean things up defensively? Absolutely, but the fact they’re scoring goals at will is part of the reason they have so many third- Travis Dermott (LD, #23) — I don’t like putting Dermott here, but he’s period leads in the first place. Their power play is first in the league since been struggling. For a guy with his skating ability, he tends to lose the Keefe took over, Nylander is playing the best hockey of his life and the puck far too often in the offensive zone along the boards. He’s also team is winning a lot of games. looked a bit clunky on the breakouts, which has been a common theme this season. Part of me wonders if he just needs to focus on making the LEAFS IMPROVE TO 18-7-3 UNDER SHELDON KEEFE, A 114-POINT simple play up the ice (e.g., Rasmus Sandin) and let his stellar gap PACE. control in transition do the rest of the work. I still believe in Dermott, but — JAMES MIRTLE (@MIRTLE) JANUARY 30, 2020 he needs to make some better decisions with the puck on his stick.

Pierre Engvall (C, #47) — The third line was a bit of a disaster until late in Cody Ceci (RD, #83) — Oh, Cody … the third period, but I thought Engvall made some good plays with the ALEXANDER RADULOV MAKES IT 3-2, AS CODY CECI IS BUSY puck to help the team maintain possession on the cycle. He’s so good at HAVING A CONVERSATION WITH FREDERIK ANDERSEN skating into the open ice, which he was able to pull off a few times in the PIC.TWITTER.COM/7BPVCJWXEY offensive zone by calmly carrying the puck to a spot where Dallas didn’t have any defenders. I still prefer him on the wing more than centre — — KEVIN PAPETTI (@KPAPETTI) JANUARY 30, 2020 much as I prefer Kerfoot at 3C more than left wing — but I didn’t think he was the problem on his line. These are the plays I’m referring to when I get frustrated with Ceci’s defence. His lack of awareness to take away the backdoor pass has Trevor Moore (LW, #42) — The fourth line didn’t get too many minutes, been a trend throughout his career, to the point where I’m not sure if it’s but Moore found a way to make an impact in his limited role. He was fixable. He also really struggled making basic passes to his teammates, buzzing around the neutral zone, forcing turnovers and a few chances giving up puck possession unnecessarily quite a few times. the other way. His biggest moment was a pass out front to Frederik Gauthier, who shockingly wasn’t able to convert. COUPLE OF ROUGH PLAYS WITH THE PUCK FROM CECI THIS PERIOD HAVE LED TO EXTRA TIME IN THE D-ZONE. ⭐⭐ FROM SIX FEET AWAY, YOU GOTTA BE ABLE TO PUT THIS ON THE Justin Holl (RD, #3) — As always, Holl made plays with the puck to get TAPE. PIC.TWITTER.COM/4AWM2XVPU1 his team up the ice, although he got bailed out by Andersen after a brutal — KEVIN PAPETTI (@KPAPETTI) JANUARY 30, 2020 giveaway in front of his own net. Holl also got beat in a one-on-one race at the end of his shift in the third period, which resulted in a chance off It was nice to see him stand up for Sandin after he got run from behind, the cycle and a goal for Dallas. I did like his play on the four-on-four shift but we’ve reached the point where I don’t think it makes sense to have he played, but all in all, we’ve definitely seen better 200-foot Ceci on the roster. Frankly, I don’t think it ever made sense, but at $4.5 performances from him. million, the Leafs should look to offload his salary so they can bring in a defenceman who can make some of these plays. Frederik Gauthier (C, #33) and Jason Spezza (RW, #19) — Poor Gauthier can’t finish on any of the chances his teammates feed him. It’s Heat map too bad, because with his newfound speed, he’s actually become a surprisingly interesting player to watch in transition. The downside is his Here’s a quick look at where each team’s shots were coming from, lack of offensive ability usually results in nothing happening when he’s on courtesy of Natural Stat Trick. the ice. Most coaches love that from their fourth line, but Gauthier & Co. The Leafs got out-Leafed in this game, but sometimes the team with gave up a bit more defensively than usual in this one. Spezza was more chances doesn’t win. That’s hockey, and much like life, it isn’t looking to make some nice passes as usual, but he wasn’t able to always fair. connect on some of the higher-risk plays in the offensive zone. He also took an ill-timed penalty late in the third period, which luckily his team Game score was able to kill off. Game score is a metric developed by The Athletic’s Dom Luszczyszyn to John Tavares (C, #91) — This was a pretty quiet night for Tavares. He quickly measure a player’s performance in a single game. had a few nice give-and-go plays with Nylander, but it really felt like No. 88 was the one driving the bus. It’s felt like that a lot lately, which could It’s not perfect, but it can help give us a decent idea of how well players speak to some of the under-the-radar plays Tavares makes with performed in a particular game based on their numbers — although I’d consistency, but it’s also just how puck-dominant the Swedish winger has always recommend combining stats with video, since single-game been on this hot streak. numbers can be wonky.

⭐ Trending up or down? This is where we break down the latest trends in my Leafs Report Cards, Andreas Johnsson (LW, #18) and Kasperi Kapanen (RW, #24) — Both courtesy of Mark Norman. You can play around with the data at his seemed to be fighting the puck. Neither winger was able to complete Tableau page if you’re interested. passes up the ice with consistency, which resulted in their spending most of their time on the wrong side of centre ice. It was nice to see Johnsson Tweets of the night burst down the middle at the end of the game for the empty-net goal — he really needed that. I’m a big fan of both players’ raw skill sets and Let’s see what Leafs Twitter was up to Wednesday night. potential offensively, but they haven’t been clicking lately. *DELETES EVERY TWEET IN THE EXISTENCE OF LEAFS TWITTER Alexander Kerfoot (LW, #15) — The camera might have panned to ABOUT TYSON BARRIE POINT SHOTS* AS I WAS SAYING, HE’S Muzzin after the Denis Gurianov goal, but watching the replay, I’d make GOOD AND SHOULD DO THIS MORE the argument that Kerfoot needs to do a better job of taking away the — MAYBE: THE BUDS? (@LEBRONMACLEAN) JANUARY 30, 2020 middle of the ice. It’s always funny when you yell about something … and then it works. TOO FAST, TOO FURIOUS  MORE LIKE AN ANDREAS YAWN-ING CAGE THERE… GURIANOV PUTS THE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR (AGAIN) AND BURIES THIS ONE TOP SHELF TO GET THE @DALLASSTARS ON THE — JAMES MIRTLE (@MIRTLE) JANUARY 30, 2020 BOARD!#GOSTARS | : FSSW PIC.TWITTER.COM/1ZX85DLT5X I quit. EXCELLENT PICK-UP BY FRIEDMAN/BURKE/MAREK HERE … DEPARTMENT OF PLAYER SAFETY SHOULD USE THIS AS A TEACHING VID. BENN COULD’VE RUINED A VULNERABLE OPPONENT, ONUS IS ON HITTER TO AVOID THE HEAD, HE WISELY PASSED WHERE A FEW YEARS AGO FEW MOST PLAYERS WOULD’VE LIT THE GUY UP. PIC.TWITTER.COM/VSNLT7WQIP

— JUSTIN BOURNE (@JTBOURNE) JANUARY 30, 2020

Classic Jamie Benn, avoiding the head as usual.

Final grade: B-

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173577 Toronto Maple Leafs Sandin – Holl extras: Dermott, Marincin, Liljegren

Everyone there slots fairly well, especially Holl, who now doesn’t have to Mirtle: Analyzing the Maple Leafs salary cap situation: Can they afford to eat tough minutes every night. go big at the trade deadline? Now, I’m not sure Anaheim wants to get thinner at RD, as it is not exactly

loaded with NHL calibre blueliners. And the Ducks are probably going to By James Mirtle Jan 29, 2020 want some sort of prospect or pick package that could expand this deal on both sides.

But this is a good example of the kind of trade that makes sense before In the NHL these days, there’s always the cap to worry about. the deadline, even if the particulars are going to be different. (I do know that the Leafs have had a modest level of interest in Manson within the But it’s been interesting this season how little of a factor it has ended up past couple years. It’s hard to say how active those talks have been this being in Toronto, with all of the injuries the Maple Leafs have had. season.) Because of a revolving long-term injured reserve (LTIR) setup, they haven’t had to cut down to a minimum roster or trade anyone due to cap There’s another wrinkle here, though. What complicates any salary-cap considerations in-season, which were fears entering the year. analysis with the Leafs and a 2020 deadline deal is they aren’t going after rental players. So any deal has to be analyzed while keeping in There’s no denying things are going to be tight once Morgan Rielly mind future roster and cap configurations. returns from injury, roughly six weeks from now. If the Leafs elect to keep Rasmus Sandin around after that point, they could be as close as $3,000 Which brings us to next season. to the cap with only a 21-player roster in mid-March. That obviously complicates things given the trade deadline is Feb. 24. For all the hand-wringing about the Leafs cap situation and having too much cash allocated to four forwards, things do improve next year. For Any deals they make are going to have to include dollars in and dollars one, the cap is expected to go up, potentially to as much as $85 million. out, almost to the loonie. And all those expiring contracts (Ceci, Barrie, Muzzin et al) will give them freedom to rework things. Here’s the Leafs projected roster with everyone except healthy, via CapFriendly. This lineup is calculated at only $3,134 under Not having Nathan Horton and David Clarkson’s zombie contracts will the $81.5-million max after waiving and demoting Dmytro Timashov, who also allow them to exceed the cap using bonuses, if necessary. (Yes, the is averaging only eight minutes ice time a night and has been scratched great unkillable Clarkson deal mercifully ends this season.) for a third of Toronto’s games. Now, the Leafs are trying to re-sign Muzzin. I suspect that’s a contract The obvious fat to trim here is going to be on the blue line. If the Leafs that would land in the range of $5.5 million on a cap hit, depending on the are (a) comfortable with either Sandin or Dermott playing RD during the term involved. Maybe a little lower if they can dramatically front-load it, playoff push or (b) they intend to acquire another experienced RD, then which, of course, Toronto often does. moving out either Barrie or Ceci makes sense in order to facilitate a pre- deadline addition. If the Leafs re-sign their RFAs like Mikheyev, Engvall and Dermott on reasonable bridge deals, they will have somewhere around $9-million to Ceci’s contract is significantly larger, which would allow the Leafs to allocate to Muzzin (or another defenceman) and upgrade on Hutchinson accommodate a bigger deal coming back. If they could eliminate that in the backup goal role. $4.5-million entirely by sending it to a seller such as Anaheim, Detroit, LA or New Jersey that is willing to take on a contract in exchange for an Here’s what that roster looks like with Muzzin signed and $4 million still to asset, and they demoted Sandin, they would have the ability to add spend… roughly $5.4 million in salary before the deadline and still fit in Rielly The problem with that lineup isn’t really the salary cap. It’s that you’re when he returns from LTIR. very thin on RD, with hardly any experience there and either Sandin or (The Leafs could even bump that up to a little more than $5.6-million by Dermott playing on their off side. And you’ve got a $3-million+ winger sending Engvall, who doesn’t require waivers, down for someone on a potentially on the fourth line, if Engvall continues to prove a capable third- league-minimum deal. They could then recall him when the playoffs start, liner. when the cap is no longer a factor. That would come with obvious risk, That’s why moving a depth forward for a RD, right now, makes so much however, given the dogfight they’re in just to make the postseason right sense. The Leafs would be making a deal not just for the final six weeks now.) of the season and playoffs. It would be something that better balances If the Leafs also included someone like Kapanen or Johnsson in a their roster and cap situation next season, which they’re going to have to potential trade for a defenceman, they would then have even more do anyway. flexibility under the cap, to the point they would only have to trade part of For fun, here’s how that 2020-21 roster looks with our purely theoretical Ceci’s deal in order to make the math work. Kapanen-for-Manson swap factored in… One benefit there would be Sandin could remain on the roster even when The Leafs would be about $3 million under the cap with that lineup and Rielly returns. needing only a backup goalie. (Dan Hamilton / USA Today) They would also have some depth on defence to play around with. One It’s probably easier to illustrate this with an example. I’ll go with a really of the interesting ramifications of keeping Muzzin is that it takes away a simple one, even if it’s not the most likely deal: LD slot from either Dermott or Sandin. So either one of them has to play RD, and take away opportunity from Liljegren, or you need to make Anaheim deals Josh Manson another deal. in exchange for Suddenly, they could have seven defencemen who you want to have in the lineup every night. Kasperi Kapanen and Cody Ceci So, two key takeaways here: (with the Leafs retaining $2M of Ceci’s contract) 1. The Leafs definitely have the flexibility to make a pretty big trade in the The Leafs get a top-four RD making $4.1-million for another two years next four weeks, as freeing up $7 or $8 million in space (Ceci + a beyond this one. They also shed $5.7-million this season, freeing up cap forward) shouldn’t be difficult given there are roster players involved in space to give them some breathing room the rest of the season. any likely deals. And they should be able to accommodate whatever A trade like that would leave Toronto with a projected D core of: contract they acquire beyond this year, as their cap situation is more favourable next season with the cap going up, UFAs moving on and Muzzin – Manson RFAs not likely to break the bank. Rielly – Barrie 2. Because this year’s deadline addition isn’t likely to be a rental, there are going to be ripple effects if the Leafs add a veteran defenceman. They have a lot of young players they want to give minutes to on the blue line, but they also want to get more experienced (and, frankly, better) on right defence, which isn’t something they have in the organization. Where everyone plays in that scenario remains to be seen.

Still, at some point, this type of forward-for-RD deal is probably going to be a trade they need to make.

Getting it done now, to help their current season, makes sense – especially given some of those also-ran teams the Leafs will be trading with are likely going to be fine with absorbing an expiring contract like Ceci’s while doing so.

Get better now, solve a roster imbalance later, and make it all fit under the cap.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173578 Toronto Maple Leafs A year later, Leafs president hired Dubas as an assistant general manager, at just 28-years-old. He was excited to learn that the Leafs front office was on the same floor as the Raptors’ front office — the team he’d by now shed his NBA allegiance to the Pistons How Kyle Dubas’ friendship with Raptors GM offers the for. Leafs a championship roadmap Ujiri and the group of young minds he’d hired to set his vision for the Raptors in place, sat just past the elevators and down the hall from Dubas. By Dan Robson Jan 29, 2020 In his first few weeks with the Leafs, Dubas met Ujiri and members of his

executive team such as and Teresa Resch. Through the 2019 NBA playoffs, a part of general “All of them would say to me, ‘The guy you really have to meet is manager Bobby Webster envied Kyle Dubas, the fan. Bobby,’” Dubas recalls. The Toronto Maple Leafs general manager sat in the stands at Webster had joined the Raptors a year earlier as “vice-president of Scotiabank Arena for more than half a dozen games through the Raptors’ basketball management and strategy” — a title Ujiri let him create as part championship run. of the negotiation to lure the 28-year-old from the NBA head office, where “He was so pumped,” Webster says of his Maple Leafs Sports and he’d spent seven years becoming an expert in the league’s salary cap Entertainment counterpart. It had been a long time since he’d felt the and CBA. same kind of unbridled passion for basketball. Growing up in Hawaii, Webster had little exposure to hockey. His father “When it’s your sport you can’t be a fan anymore,” Webster says, was from Chicago and a huge sports fan — so Webster knew about the laughing. “It’s fun to just go be the irrational fan: ‘Ah terrible play!’ … It’s Blackhawks. And although he used to live in New York, he had attended so far gone. I wouldn’t even recognize that fan anymore. I don’t even just a handful of Rangers games. That was the extent of Webster’s know who that fan is.” relationship with the sport.

Of course, Dubas would have preferred that the Leafs hoisted a trophy of But , then the CEO of MLSE, told Webster exactly what his their own, instead of being knocked out of the first round of the playoffs in colleagues had been telling Dubas about him. seven games by the Boston Bruins for the second spring in a row. But “Tim was like, ‘Hey I just hired this kid’. He thought we were similar,’” that fact didn’t diminish his joy as the Raptors sealed the championship Webster says. “He connected us way back when… and that kind of with a Game 6 win over the in Oakland, which he kicked it off.” watched on TV with his wife and two-year-old son. As their colleagues predicted, Webster and Dubas quickly became good “We were just at home as a family… we were able to watch and enjoy it,” friends. Just a year apart in age, both were going through the same Dubas says. “And then you’re up until three in the morning watching all stages of life while following near-identical arcs in their precocious the stuff after. It was great.” careers. Dubas and Webster are executives for one of the world’s largest sports The pair met up regularly over coffee or lunch. media and entertainment companies. They are also among the youngest general managers in the NHL and the NBA, respectively. Since joining “He was really impressive. He was young and had run his own team and the Raptors and the Maple Leafs when they were both still in their had a ton of success,” says Webster. “He’s incredibly thoughtful. He’s twenties, the pair have formed a unique bond that reaches across the really smart. He doesn’t get too high or too low. He’s very deliberate on lines of their sports. That relationship has fostered an approach that the way he wants to build a team and on the things that he values.” better utilizes the strengths within each organization, with a shared goal of raising championship banners at Scotiabank Arena. Dubas was similarly impressed with Webster.

This fall, the Raptors unveiled the franchise’s first. The Leafs have 13 of “One of the things that stood out to me was how incredibly calm he is… their own hanging from the same roof — but none since 1967. about everything. Not in a laid back, chill sense. Just a calm confidence,” Dubas says. “He was somewhat of an outsider as well. He didn’t grow up So while Dubas, the fan, revelled in the Raptors championship, the Leafs having a long-playing history.” GM has also sought to learn from the experiences of his like-minded friend and colleague who helped make it happen. During his first few years in Toronto, Dubas and his wife, Shannon, attended at least a dozen Raptors games per season. They often met up When he was a boy growing up in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., Dubas was a with Webster and his wife, Lauren. Dubas would tell Webster about dedicated Detroit Pistons fan— the NBA team that received most of the different NBA podcasts that he was listening to and would send him sports coverage in the northern Ontario town near the Michigan border. articles that he thought were interesting.

During his first year of university, in 2004, Dubas watched the Pistons “He loves basketball. He always wants to talk about basketball. He win the NBA title over the powerhouse Los Angeles Lakers. The Pistons knows all the breaking news,” says Webster, laughing. “I don’t know as were led by the gritty play of Chauncey Billups, Ben Wallace and other much about hockey. Like he doesn’t just watch us. He’s a legit NBA fan. I names he easily rhymes off. appreciate that.”

“It was the only team I cheered for growing up that won anything,” says Bobby Webster was named GM of the Raptors at just 32 years old. Dubas. “So that was fun.” (Thomas Skrlj)

He remained loyal to the Pistons as he started his sports management Webster was named Raptors GM in June 2017. At 32, he was the career in hockey. Dubas was named the general manager of the Ontario youngest person to hold the position in the NBA at the time. Hockey League’s Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in 2011, when he was 25 years old — a team with which he had a long family history and had The Leafs named Dubas GM in May 2018, when he was also 32-years- started working for as a teenager. He found success with the old. And as they took on the biggest roles of their young careers, both Greyhounds and built a reputation as one of the top young minds in Webster and Dubas became fathers for the first time. hockey. Professionally, Dubas studied approaches to leadership and Through it all, they spoke often about their philosophies on team management — within hockey and beyond. And he still followed management and leadership, areas where they shared common basketball closely, as a fan. In 2013, Dubas was intrigued by the Toronto perspectives. They also looked to each other for advice on specific Raptors new general manager and executive vice president, . decisions they were making about the organizations they now ran. “I was captivated by how he presented himself and his vision for the “The way I look at it, I’m very fortunate to be able to have somebody who team,” says Dubas. “I kind of found that as you grow up, you stop having works in the same company, dealing with a lot of the exact same a huge interest in teams and more in executives… and how they challenges — personally, and professionally,” says Dubas. operate.” “I think that’s even more like who we both are, independently. That’s an example I think of why we get along and why we can be from two different sports and two different backgrounds, but we probably think Dubas are perceived much differently in the media and by fans. There is about things in similar ways,” says Webster. “It’s always good to have less scrutiny surrounding Webster — especially given the banner that someone like that as you go through a decision, to check in with.” now hangs in Scotiabank Arena, but also because of a persistent perception that Ujiri is making all of the key decisions. A couple weeks after the Leafs signed star center John Tavares in July 2018, the Raptors stole the local-sports spotlight with a blockbuster trade With the Leafs, president Brendan Shanahan is less visible than Ujiri for . when it comes to the day-to-day operations of the franchise he leads. For the most part, Dubas addresses the media to discuss roster transactions Shortly after the deal was made, Webster called Dubas to discuss how and team performance. The team makeup is Dubas’ design, so he takes the Leafs had sold Tavares on signing a long-term deal come to Toronto. much of the criticism when the Leafs struggle. Leonard only had one year left of his deal, and the Raptors were already considering what they’d need to do to get him to stick around when the Webster knows that his counterpart is bound to face more heat publicly, season was over. given the complicated relationship a passionate hockey fanbase has with a team that hasn’t won a championship for more than five decades. “I think a large part of the narrative when Bobby and I talked was there used to be this thing that players didn’t want to come here and play here “Whenever I have seen him speak, or have to answer those tough in Toronto,” Dubas says. “On the hockey side because of the pressure, questions, he’s always very thoughtful and measured, and handles it with the media, whatever. And they deal with the same … you hear about it all class, always,” Webster says. “And that’s tough to do, as you can the time: players don’t want to play in Toronto for reasons X, Y, Z.” imagine when there’s all kinds of things swirling.”

But the situations weren’t entirely the same. After a decade with the New Neither of them really listens to the outside noise. The Raptors faced York Islanders, Tavares decided to move his career back to the city years of criticism after falling to the in the where he grew up. He posted a photo of himself as a child sleeping in postseason three years in a row, leading to the firing of Casey and the Leafs bedsheets to announce his decision. In the end, after winning a trade that sent DeMar DeRozan to San Antonio for Leonard. championship with Toronto, Leonard would opt to do the same — heading to Los Angeles, where he grew up, to play for the Clippers. “I care because we’re disappointed. I don’t care because other people are upset,” Webster says. “I care because the team’s disappointed. We NOT EVERYDAY YOU CAN LIVE A CHILDHOOD DREAM all put an incredible amount of work into it. And to have seasons end like PIC.TWITTER.COM/YUTKDFMALL that, it’s tough to take.”

— JOHN TAVARES (@91TAVARES) JULY 1, 2018 At the same time, he knows that the championship hinged on a lot of variables that could just have well gone the other way. Leonard’s famous But the two GMs rely on input from each other for much more than big rim-bouncing buzzer-beater in Game 7 of the second-round series picture ideas about how to convince players to come north. They also against the Philadelphia 76ers might not have fallen, for example. discuss specific aspects of their teams, like coaching. “It very easily could have gone out in round two and … Kawhi left and we “Of course, but that’s obviously a more sensitive one,” says Webster. “At didn’t win,” says Webster. “It would be different.” least since I’ve been GM, all the major decisions that we’ve made, I think I’ve probably at least got his opinion before or after the fact on most of BOBBY WEBSTER STAYS BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE them: coaching, trades, implementing culture. All that kind of stuff.” @RAPTORS.

During Webster’s first season as GM, the Raptors finished first in the BUT HE WAS AN INTEGRAL PART OF TORONTO’S FIRST NBA Eastern Conference, winning a franchise-record 57 games, only to be TITLE. knocked out of the playoffs by the Cleveland Cavaliers for the third year in a row. That spring, Webster and Ujiri fired popular head coach Dwane AND HIS RISE IN THE LEAGUE IS ONE OF THE BEST UNTOLD Casey, who would be named the NBA’s coach of the year just a month STORIES IN THE GAME. BY later. Webster’s first choice to replace Casey was , a long- @ROBSONDAN:HTTPS://T.CO/GUHJY3QEAP time assistant coach with the Raptors. He believed that it was important PIC.TWITTER.COM/CPRKGBSOHT for a GM and coach to be on the same page about the direction of an — THE ATHLETIC TORONTO (@THEATHLETICTO) DECEMBER 12, organization and the decisions being made. Webster and Nurse had a 2019 good relationship and were aligned in their vision for the team. After a long interview process that involved every member of the Raptors Outside perceptions can be fickle. People will view a GM as a genius executive team, Nurse got the job. when the ball bounces three times and in — or just as easily say they’re an imbecile if it bounces the other way, says Dubas. “There is an assumption that there is some contention between a GM and a coach,” says Webster. “Why would you want to have such a “At that point, you do all you can to build the organization — and that’s relationship (be) contentious?… Of course, there’s going to be times why I say all the time, and in talking to Bobby and Masai — ‘Give when this guy doesn’t fit exactly what we want, but we both give each yourselves as many chances as possible to win,’” he says. “Different other the leeway. If I’m not a part of the hiring, how is the relationship things are going to happen every single year and there’s no way to say going to be successful?” you’re going to do this one thing and it’s going to guarantee we’re going to win. Because there are so many variables at play. … All of these Mike Babcock was hired as Leafs head coach in 2015, while Dubas was uncontrollable things happen in a year and you’re trying to set yourself up still an assistant GM to . A month later, Sheldon Keefe as best as possible to deal with it. But it’s not easy.” was named head coach of the , the Leafs AHL affiliate that Dubas oversaw as part of his duties. In 2012, Dubas had brought One of the reflections Webster had after the Raptors won the title was Keefe in as head coach of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, when he that he needed to avoid the tendency to be overconfident. was still running the OHL team. Together, Dubas and Keefe would win “That’s how you make terrible mistakes,” he says. “Because you think the AHL’s in 2018. your decision-making was right to get you there, when maybe [it was] two From the beginning of Dubas’ tenure as Leafs GM, there had been of the 10.” rampant speculation that he and Babcock didn’t see eye-to-eye on how Webster and Dubas are also alike in that they make a point of the team should play, especially after last year’s disappointing first-round acknowledging the areas of expertise where they are weak. When Ujiri exit from the playoffs. After the Leafs sputtered to start the 2019-20 first hired Webster to join his front office, one of Webster’s conditions was season, Babcock was fired on Nov. 20 and replaced by Keefe. The Leafs that he’d have the opportunity to learn more about scouting, analytics, are now 17-7-3 under Keefe, a 112-point pace. and coaching. The Leafs have a much different style of game under their new coach, in “I think both of us realize that there are other people who know some of line with Dubas’ vision — with a focus on skill and puck possession, and the areas we’re weak in,” says Dubas. less time grinding in the corners. At MLSE, that acknowledgment has extended across sports. Dubas and As young general managers, both Dubas and Webster are aware of Webster have worked to develop synergies between their franchises’ external assumptions that they are too inexperienced to handle their jobs. parallel departments. But although their responsibilities are virtually the same, Webster and In the past, they’ve connected their analytics departments — with Keith Boyarsky, the Raptors’ VP of basketball strategy, and Brittni Donaldson (now an assistant coach) working with Darryl Metcalf, a special assistant to the GM with the Leafs, to compare and combine approaches to data collection and processing.

“They’ve developed their own little relationship and they can bounce things back and forth, different technologies and advances that are coming up,” says Dubas.

Recently, Webster and Teresa Resch sat down with Dubas for a long discussion about the Leafs’ approach to the mental health of their players.

“It’s a big thing we both value, and they were one of the first teams in the NHL to really implement one of those programs. And so we’re in the process of doing that,” says Webster. “He walked us through how they thought about it, how they’ve implemented it and the challenges they’ve had — and how we can do it better.”

Early this season Dubas read something he found interesting and passed it along to Webster. They had a discussion about the topic, but Webster won’t divulge what it was. Dubas is still quick to pass on ideas that he thinks might interest his counterpart.

Webster says he’s not as good about reciprocating but is grateful to have benefitted from his friend’s inquisitive mind — even if he still doesn’t listen to hockey podcasts, as Dubas does with basketball. On the other side, Dubas says he’s particularly benefitted from the experience and example set by Webster and the Raptors.

He looks at the Raptors as a kind of roadmap for what the Leafs are trying to accomplish. Not just the obvious championship, Dubas says, but the story of the evolution of a franchise.

“What I’ve learned from the Raptors, what I’ve learned from Bobby, Masai, and Teresa is the patience and the hard work and the toughness as a management group,” he says. “And what I mean by toughness is the ability to stick with it when people are telling you you have to change all the time — and then being able to have the belief in your management group and your operation, to make major moves when you need to, even when people are criticizing them vastly. “

Today people look back at the Leonard trade as though it was a slam dunk, Dubas says. But at the time, it was a huge risk. DeRozan was signed for two more seasons. Leonard had only played nine games the season before. And it’s easy to forget that before the Raptors championship, the team experienced plenty of heartbreak. Dubas lists the disappointment. There was the Game 7 loss to Brooklyn in 2014. The embarrassing sweep at the hands of Washington in 2015. And then those three straight years, losing to LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

“You’re developing a resiliency and you’re building up your experience. As you go through disappointment and as you have areas where your team falls short, in their case their hump was Cleveland and LeBron … but you listen to Bobby and Masai, it was never, ‘We have to beat Cleveland.’ Their goal was to win a championship,’” says Dubas. “So with us, it’s ‘You have to get past the first round, you have to get past Boston.’ That would be nice, of course — but it’s not really what we’re aspiring to. That’s part of the process.’”

One spring soon, Dubas hopes he’ll be watching the Leafs playing for a championship. He’ll likely appear staid and measured from his box high above the ice, much like Webster did as the Raptors pushed towards a title last year.

And maybe, then, it will be Webster in the stands — cheering like an irrational fan — like a friend once did for him.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173579 Vegas Golden Knights The Knights play eight of their final 10 games in February at home but can’t afford to dig a hole in the tightly bunched Pacific Division.

“We have to really use this break to our advantage because we have Peter DeBoer’s priority as coach is to speed up Golden Knights some huge hockey games coming up,” Pacioretty said. “Every night you check the standings and you can go from first to last (in the playoff race). That just goes to show how important these points are.”

By David Schoen Las Vegas Review-Journal January 29, 2020 - 6:21 PM LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 01.30.2020 Updated January 29, 2020 - 6:53 PM

Peter DeBoer veered from his original plan to spoon feed the Golden Knights his systems and decided it was a group that could handle having more thrown its way before the All-Star break and bye week.

Near the top of DeBoer’s to-do list during his first week as coach was to get the Knights playing faster.

“We always said we wanted to play with speed, but there are some tweaks that we’ve made that should allow us to do so, both up front and on the back end,” leading scorer Max Pacioretty said. “All coaches have their different systems or versions of trying to get teams to play fast. I’m interested to see Pete’s because he didn’t want to throw the whole kitchen sink there at us the first couple days.”

DeBoer didn’t come right out and say it, but from the outside looking in, the former San Jose coach saw a team that lost its identity.

The relentlessness, speed and physicality, traits that were staples in the Knights’ infancy, had started to dip.

With 30 games remaining, that’s what DeBoer hopes to recapture starting with Thursday’s practice in Raleigh, North Carolina.

“Every coach has things that are important to him and his style of play and his identity, and those are never the same,” DeBoer said. “For me, playing aggressive and dictating games and wearing teams down with our depth, we have the ability to roll four lines and be really hard to play against. I think we want to get back to that.

“Not that that slipped totally off the table, but that’s something this team did better than anybody in the league for a long time. We want to try to get that type of identity back.”

Pacioretty couldn’t — or wouldn’t — pinpoint why the Knights weren’t playing as fast as they had previously under coach .

Whether it was through personnel changes or other mitigating factors, the Knights evolved away from the buzzing style that made them so fun to watch during their inaugural season.

The current defense corps is not known for its mobility, which could necessitate an upgrade before the trade deadline.

The acquisition of Chandler Stephenson from Washington in December finally replaced the element of speed that was lost with center Erik Haula’s 2018 knee injury and subsequent trade.

It’s a heavier version of the Knights, built for the rigors of the postseason. Gallant acknowledged as much before he was fired as coach Jan. 15, as did DeBoer at his introductory news conference, when he noted this was his kind of team.

But that doesn’t mean it can’t pick up the pace.

“You have to play fast today if you want to have success at this level,” DeBoer said.

One of the first points of emphasis for DeBoer during practice was exiting the zone with control of the puck, preferably through the middle of the ice, and then crashing the net.

Pacioretty expects to see more changes to the Knights’ system for retrieving pucks and breaking out of their defensive zone.

“Making sure everyone’s in the right position, so it’s cemented into our brains as to, if you go back a certain way, where your help will be, which side of the net. That’s kind of the stuff we’ve heard so far,” Pacioretty said. “A lot more will be thrown at us, and things could change pretty quickly when it comes to that.”

The Knights play Friday at Carolina, then face a crucial month with the likes of Tampa Bay (twice), Florida (twice), St. Louis, the New York Islanders, Washington and Edmonton on the schedule in February. 1173580 Vegas Golden Knights

Golden Knights to hold Fan Fest in downtown Las Vegas

By David Schoen Las Vegas Review-Journal January 29, 2020 - 10:47 am

The Golden Knights will host their annual Fan Fest on Feb. 29 at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, the team announced Wednesday.

The event, which runs from from 1-3 p.m., will be free and open to the public. Select players and broadcasters are scheduled to attend.

The event will feature “Family Feud” and “Newlywed” games between select broadcasters and players, question and answer sessions, street hockey, face painters, balloon artists, inflatable obstacle courses, and performances and lessons from the VGK Cast and more.

The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a complimentary giveaway item.

Season ticket holders have access to an expedited entry line and an exclusive standing area.

LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173581 Washington Capitals to the locker room for repairs from a high stick that gifted the Capitals the power play. When he returned, he hopped on the ice and scored off a dish from Lars Eller.

Capitals continue to fall prey to Predators, drop eighth straight to It was Wilson’s second power-play goal in as many games and extended Nashville his points streak to five games (three goals, three assists). The Capitals’ power play was 1 for 5 in the loss.

“I’d say that my level of concern with a few areas that have cost us in Samantha Pell January 29, 2020 at 10:56 PM EST the past, just because we came up on the [all-star] break doesn’t mean that those problems all went away,” Reirden said of the power-play

struggles. “When you don’t skate for seven days, they don’t all of a Players change, coaches change, the Washington Capitals remain atop sudden get better.” the NHL in points — and yet they still somehow can’t manage to beat the Holtby, who was strong in his previous start Monday against Montreal, Nashville Predators. struggled early against the Predators, allowing three goals on the first Despite overcoming a two-goal deficit in the first period and taking a lead seven shots. He finished with 19 saves. Ilya Samsonov is set to be in net into the third, the Capitals fell, 5-4, at Capital One Arena, extending their Friday against Ottawa. losing streak to the Predators to eight. It has been nearly four years “I still feel the same,” Holtby said of his mental state after Wednesday’s (March 2016) since Washington beat Nashville, and the Capitals have game. “It’s just a stupid mental error. That’s what it is, and you make sure been outscored 41-23 in those losses. it doesn’t happen again, and you push forward.” The Capitals (34-12-5) came into Wednesday’s game on a four-game Washington Post LOADED: 01.30.2020 winning streak and held a 4-3 lead as the third period started, but an ill- timed turnover from goaltender Braden Holtby led to a shorthanded equalizer from Ryan Johansen three minutes into the final frame. A long- distance goal through traffic by Yannick Weber proved decisive with 4:37 remaining.

“It’s more me tonight instead of [the Predators], so it’s one of those that’s hard to swallow,” Holtby said. “You’ve got to move on.”

Holtby’s miscue, coming as he tried to spring an outlet pass, landed near center ice on the stick of Johansen, who glided into the zone and beat Holtby high to the blocker side. It was the fourth shorthanded goal the Capitals have allowed in their past seven games. Holtby said he didn’t see Johansen, called it “bad awareness” and said he was “trying to do too much.”

Last time out: Capitals shake off some rust to beat the Canadiens without Alex Ovechkin

“Obviously, that shorthanded goal hurt us there,” Capitals Coach Todd Reirden said. “I thought Braden, other than that, he was fine. He wasn’t tested with a ton of shot volume, [but] I thought he was tested with some good chances against. But I’m certain he’d be more than willing to say that he’d like to make a different play on that one.”

Before the third-period letdown, the Capitals had overcome a 3-1 deficit with goals from Alex Ovechkin, Richard Panik and Tom Wilson.

Ovechkin started the initial rally with his 35th goal of the season and his ninth in his past four games. Few have come easier. Nashville goalie Juuse Saros turned the puck over to the Capitals’ captain in the crease, allowing Ovechkin to place it in a yawning net late in the first period, trimming Nashville’s lead to 3-2 at 16:26.

The goal moved Ovechkin past Steve Yzerman for ninth all-time on the NHL’s scoring list with 693. Next up for the captain is (694).

“A big honor to be on that list,” Ovechkin said of passing Yzerman. “Kind of happy but still a long way to go.”

The Capitals’ second-period equalizer was credited to Panik, who appeared to slightly deflect a pass from behind the Nashville net off the stick of Nick Bonino. The puck clipped Saros and went over the goal line. The goal was Panik’s second of the night and seventh of the season. His first came on a clean wrister from the top of the right circle at 9:28 of the first period.

Panik and the third line were trending in the right direction in the past few games before the bye week, and they combined for two of the Capitals’ four goals Wednesday night.

“Yeah, I think January has been pretty good for us,” Panik said of his line. “We’ve been playing really good hockey. If we’re going to continue this way, it’s going to just be better and better.”

Capitals return from all-star break recharged and ready to go

After Panik’s second goal, Wilson extended the Capitals’ momentum, breaking the tie with a power-play goal off a tip in front with 8:54 left in the second period. Wilson’s 16th goal came minutes after he briefly went 1173582 Washington Capitals

Jakub Vrana is having a career stretch, with his overall game continuing to grow

Samantha Pell

Washington Capitals winger Jakub Vrana is statistically playing the best hockey of his career. The 23-year-old, in his fourth NHL season, has 23 goals through 50 games and heads into Wednesday’s game against Nashville one goal shy of tying his career high of 24 goals last season.

Vrana has been on a scoring tear, with eight goals in his last nine games, and is currently on a nine-game point streak dating back to Jan. 3 (eight goals, three assists).

That is tied with Alex Ovechkin and John Carlson for the longest point streak by a Capital this season. Vrana is on pace to score 37 goals this season.

Twenty-two of Vrana’s 23 goals have come at even strength. At this rate, he will score 36 even-strength goals this season. That’s happened only 11 times since 1997-98. And Vrana accomplished this despite averaging only 14:54 minutes per game, which ranks 13th among the Capitals’ skaters.

With Braden Holtby back on track and Ilya Samsonov holding steady, Capitals have net gains

“It’s been awesome” T.J. Oshie said of playing with Vrana and seeing the growth he’s made over the last few seasons. The two are close, and their bond has continued to strengthen.

“He’s such a great kid and someone that we all thought would have success if he approached the game the right way, and he’s grown as a player, as a person,” Oshie said. “He works hard and you know, it’s been awesome playing with him.”

Vrana is also being tested more on the power play. As Washington struggled through a stretch when it converted just 3 of 28 power-play chances, Vrana was inserted into the first unit over Evgeny Kuznetsov to provide a spark.

It appears, at least right now, the Capitals will try to use Vrana more as a mainstay on the first unit. However, Coach Todd Reirden said the young winger still has a lot to learn about how the group works when given more responsibilities with the first unit. Reirden referenced former Capital Marcus Johansson, as a player on the power play who knew how to enter and make plays to those soft areas where he knew people were; that is the model the team wants to use with Vrana.

“That’s what we are working on,” Reirden said. “Continuing to get him more reps, get him more comfortable on entries, using his speed, knowing where once you get more of those reps you start to develop and know where your blind outs are ... he’s still getting comfortable.”

Washington Post LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173583 Washington Capitals Tom Wilson gave the Capitals the lead on a power-play goal, a neat rebound off a Lars Eller shot that was saved. Washington defended its lead early in the third until Holtby’s mistake. Both Jakub Vrana and Eller took penalties later in the period that hampered the Capitals‘ chances to Puck bounces give, then take away in Caps' loss to Predators break the tie.

Alex Ovechkin passes Steve Yzerman with goal No. 693 Center Nic Dowd said the Capitals were “right where we want to be, and that game should’ve been over,” before they let it get away.

“Definitely self-inflicted, which is a positive note,” he said. “That means By Adam Zielonka - The Washington Times - Wednesday, January 29, we can fix it.” 2020 Their next chance to do that is Friday at the Ottawa Senators — when

Ilya Samsonov, not Holtby, is expected to start between the pipes. The puck bounced, flipped, dangled and dropped among some Washington Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 Washington Capitals players’ sticks in their defensive zone. Nobody could quite get possession of it, and the Nashville Predators eventually took advantage, setting up the ninth and final goal of the night.

Yannick Weber’s game-winning goal even brushed off Michal Kempny and slightly changed direction — very fitting for a game that saw much stranger ways to score.

Washington erased a two-goal deficit thanks in part to a Predators own goal and took a lead into the second intermission, but sloppy play and weird bounces allowed the Predators to come back and win, 5-4.

Richard Panik finished with two goals and Alex Ovechkin had a goal and an assist for Washington (34-12-5, 73 points),

The goal was Ovechkin’s 693rd career tally, moving him into sole possession of ninth all-time — ahead of Steve Yzerman and just a goal behind Mark Messier for eighth.

But for a change, Ovechkin’s latest milestone was not the primary talking point after the game. After a good showing in their first game after the All- Star break, a 4-2 win at Montreal, the Capitals let two more standings points get away in frustrating fashion.

The captain agreed that the game contained some strange turns, but nobody would use that as an excuse.

“That’s hockey,” Ovechkin said. “You have to be ready for everything. It’s a tough bounce. You could see we were (down) 3-2 after first and we come back and get a lead and they come back. So, you go back and forth.”

With the Capitals ahead 4-3 in the third period and the Predators shorthanded, Braden Holtby collected the puck in the right corner and cleared it across the zone — but right to the stick of Nashville top-line center Ryan Johansen, who had just left the penalty box. Holtby got back to his net in time but couldn’t save Johansen’s shot.

“I just didn’t see him there,” Holtby said. “It was just bad awareness there. I was trying to do too much, I guess, trying to get in the play somehow and it’s just a play that can’t happen. It killed us.”

Reirden was unhappy with the move, too, and said Holtby’s game otherwise was “fine.” Holtby finished just 19 saves on 24 shots.

“Goalie playing the puck up on a power play is not part of our system, it’s not part of our design of how we break pucks out,” Reirden said. “That’s an unforced error.”

Panik opened scoring midway through the first period with a wrister, but the Predators responded with a quick goal and soon moved ahead 3-1. Mikael Granlund scored on a power play, just the second goal Washington’s penalty kill allowed in its previous 19 outings.

Nashville expanded the lead on an odd-man rush. Defenseman Roman Josi flipped a pass between John Carlson and Kempny to Rocco Grimaldi skating toward the net, and Grimaldi was able to beat Holtby.

But fortunes turned around quickly for Washington in part due to Predators‘ carelessness. Before the period was out, goaltender Juuse Saros tried to recover the puck from behind his own net and pushed it toward an incoming Ovechkin, who potted it on an essentially empty net.

Nashville’s biggest mistake came in the middle frame. Nick Bonino stood by the left post of Saros’ net with the puck, and instead of trying to clear it up the ice, he botched a pass to his right that hit Saros’ skate and bounced through his five-hole. Panik was credited with the goal for being the Capital who touched it last. 1173584 Washington Capitals

Alex Ovechkin honors Kobe Bryant with No. 24 warmup jersey

By Adam Zielonka - The Washington Times - Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Kobe Bryant spent half his career wearing jersey No. 8 and the other half wearing No. 24. Alex Ovechkin is pretty familiar with No. 8, so he switched things up Wednesday.

Ahead of the Washington Capitals‘ home game against the Nashville Predators, Ovechkin wore a custom No. 24 Capitals jersey during warmups to honor Bryant, who died Sunday along with his daughter and seven other people in a helicopter crash.

After the game, Ovechkin will sign the jersey and the Kobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation will put it up for auction at a later date.

Ovechkin met Bryant several times, and the two were on apparently friendly terms. Reporters in Montreal Sunday said Ovechkin was emotional after the Capitals held a practice there shortly after the news of Bryant’s death broke.

“He always treated me well when he saw me,” Ovechkin remembered. “It’s hard. He was a legend in the basketball world, and in the whole world. It’s tough. I still can’t believe it.”

Washington Times LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173585 Washington Capitals

Alex Ovechkin pays tribute to Kobe Bryant with No. 24 jersey in pregame warmups

By J.J. Regan January 29, 2020 7:20 PM

WASHINGTON -- It has been three days since Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash, but on Wednesday Alex Ovechkin showed that the basketball great still remains very much on his mind and in his heart with a touching tribute during pregame warmups.

As Ovechkin took to the ice for warmups prior to the Capitals’ game against the Nashville Predators, he was not wearing his usual No.8, but instead wore No. 24 in tribute to Bryant.

8 —> 24

For Kobe. pic.twitter.com/EZvtTj0hjJ

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) January 29, 2020

Ovechkin had met Bryant multiple times in the past and appeared shaken when talking about the news of Bryant’s death with the media. Ovechkin referred to Bryan as a “legend.”

Ovechkin also took to Instagram after the news broke, saying he was “heartbroken” by Bryant’s passing.

View this post on Instagram

I’m heartbroken.cant believe... Blessed to have the chance to meet you. RIP Legend. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

A post shared by Alexander Ovechkin (@aleksandrovechkinofficial) on Jan 26, 2020 at 2:56pm PST

According to a statement released by the team, "Ovechkin has long admired Bryant and his commitment to his sport and felt privileged to have met him on several occasions."

The team also announced that the No. 24 jersey will be signed and put up for auction to benefit the Kobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173586 Washington Capitals

Capitals vs. Predators: Alex Ovechkin returns from suspension

By J.J. Regan January 29, 2020 10:30 AM

The Capitals (34-11-5) are back home for the first time since Jan. 16 to take on the Nashville Predators (22-19-7). Pregame coverage starts at 6:30 p.m. on NBC Sports Washington with Caps FaceOff Live followed by Caps Pregame Live at 7 p.m. Catch the game at 7:30 p.m. on NBCSN then tune back to NBC Sports Washington for postgame coverage with Caps Postgame Live, D.C. Sports Live and Caps Overtime Live.

Here is what you need to know for Wednesday’s game.

Ovechkin is back

Alex Ovechkin returns to the lineup after serving a one-game suspension for skipping the All-Star Game. With him back, the lines returned to normal from what we saw before the break:

Alex Ovechkin - Nicklas Backstrom - Tom Wilson

Jakub Vrana - Evgeny Kuznetsov - T.J. Oshie

Carl Hagelin - Lars Eller - Richard Panik

Brendan Leipsic - Nic Dowd - Garnet Hathaway

Michal Kempny - John Carlson

Dmitry Orlov - Nick Jensen

Jonas Siegenthaler - Radko Gudas

Ovechkin currently sits tied for ninth on the all-time scoring list at 692, just eight goals shy of 700.

Holtby starts

Braden Holtby will get the start after a strong performance on Monday against the Montreal Canadiens. He made 31 saves on 33 shots for a .939 save percentage. It was the first time in his past eight starts that Holtby was able to register a save percentage over .900.

9 games and counting

Ovechkin may have eight goals in his last three games, but Jakub Vrana is the hottest Cap with a nine-game point streak. He has eight goals and three assists during that stretch.

When last we met

Wednesday’s game is the second and final meeting between these two teams this season. They last met early in the season on Oct. 10 in a 6-5 win for the Predators in Nashville. Washington actually held a 4-2 lead heading into the third period, but gave up four goals in the final frame to take the regulation loss. Those types of games have been typical for Caps-Predators as this seems to be a matchup the Caps just can’t quite figure out.

Washington has lost seven straight against Nashville and almost all of them have been high-scoring affairs. In those seven losses, the Caps gave up at least five goals five times, at least six goals four times and held the Predators to fewer than four goals only once. You have to go all the way back to March 18, 2016 for the last time Washington has beaten the Predators.

A chance to get right on the power play

Washington’s power play has been abysmal of late, but showed some promising signs in Monday’s game against Montreal as Tom Wilson was able to score in a game in which Ovechkin was suspended. Now Ovechkin is back and the power play will have a chance to build on its momentum against a bad Nashville penalty kill. The Predators rank 29th in the NHL on the PK with only 74.0-percent.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173587 Winnipeg Jets This season has been an incredibly wild ride for this club. From holdouts to no-shows to injuries and all the in-betweens. And while it’s admirable that Cheveldayoff wants to reward his players with a gem on the back end, to what end? With the trade deadline approaching, the Jets should be focusing on the future The core here isn’t going anywhere, so if you want to repay them in any way, that can be done in the offseason when you can dip your toes into the free-agent market.

Scott Billeck It’s not a huge crop of high-end free-agent defencemen, but there are certainly some names that would give the Jets the boost they need next

season. When I was growing up, my mom’s go-to line when I wanted something I In the interim, now’s the time to start making room for whoever your didn’t need was this: “You need that like you need a hole in the head.” target, or targets, are come July 1. While slightly macabre in her approach, at 33, I’ll concede that she’s right Dmitry Kulikov is coming off the books, so that money will free up. But more often than not. there’ll be a contender out there looking for a third-pairing guy and if you All these years later, I’m sitting in front of my computer thinking about the can get a pick, go for it. Winnipeg Jets and the trade deadline and wondering what general And if you’re looking to free up another $4 million, trying to offload manager should do. Mathieu Perreault for a team needing bottom-six help may be the way to On one hand, making a purchase at this point seems dubious at best. go. The Jets are reportedly in the market for a top-four defenceman, joining The reality is, there isn’t much to work with on the trade market. Well, not all 30 other NHL teams in an endeavour that never ends. unless you’re willing to move a good forward, which would be a massive Would a top-four defenceman really turn the tide for the club? Certainly, it mistake. would make the team better. The Jets are running with two blueliners that The thing is this: this team isn’t far off from being a contender once would be considered top-four worthy, and four others that are fives or again. sixes, at best. The elite scoring is there, and if they didn’t have to spend so much time More importantly, what is the cost of such a defenceman? If the Jets worrying about the two guys on the blue line on any given shift, they really are buyers, what are they prepared to give up to make it happen? could return to doing what they do best. The Jets also have elite A top-six forward? A first-round pick and one of their highly-touted goaltending in Connor Hellebuyck, who could be even better with better prospects, such as Ville Heinola or Dylan Samberg? help in front of him. It’s not like teams are coming to the Jets offering a top-notch Coerce a free-agent or two in the summer and you’ll jump right back in defenceman and wanting a package deal featuring a seventh-rounder in the saddle come fall. 2029, Anthony Bitetto and Gabriel Bourque in return. This isn’t GM mode on the PS4. There are enough holes at the moment, the Jets don’t need one in the head. To loosely paraphrase Walter Sobchak from The Big Lebowski, ‘Smokey, this is not NHL 20. This is the trade deadline. There are rules.’ Winnipeg Sun LOADED 01.30.2020 Yeah. Something like that.

Teams want talent for talent. They want Nikolaj Ehlers, not Luca Sbisa. Kyle Connor, not Nick Shore. This isn’t a slight on any of those players, either. But a team willing to give up a top-four defenceman in their push to win the Stanley Cup is likely wanting a top-six forward in return, or a high-end prospect and a high pick in the coming NHL Draft if they’re hosting a yard sale as they begin to rebuild.

The Jets shouldn’t be speaking to either type of team.

Trading a Nikolaj Ehlers, for instance, would be instantly regrettable in the way that selling off your first-born would.

The reason other teams covet Ehlers isn’t that they’re misguided so-and- sos. It’s because he’s bloody good and at many things. When a high-end possession and expected goals team like Carolina wants a guy like Ehlers, it’s not because he’s bad in both categories.

You aren’t trading Mark Scheifele or Patrik Laine or Blake Wheeler. Scheifele is one of the best players in the game. Laine is one of the best young talents. And Wheeler, along with being the captain, also has a contract now that teams are going to want no part in.

There isn’t exactly this massive asset pool with which to work. Trading Heinola or Samberg would be completely counterintuitive.

So you’re left with odds and ends that don’t equate to snagging a top-four d-man. More importantly, you’re left with a sign, one that spells out S-E- L-L-E-R.

Trying to turn water into wine at the trade deadline isn’t exactly the best plan of attack, especially for a team like Winnipeg, who could be all but out of the race if the next four games they play don’t go to plan.

Even if they do, are the Jets the next St. Louis Blues? It’s important to realize that the Blues were an aberration. Not the rule, they were the exception to it.

The answer, short of some divine intervention, is indisputably “no.” 1173588 Winnipeg Jets Stastny played a pivotal role in the Jets reaching the Western Conference final.

A lot has changed with the Jets since last spring’s first-round exit, Could Jets revisit Rasmus Ristolainen trade? 5 defencemen for Winnipeg including a massive overhaul on a blue line that remains in flux. to target as deadline approaches However, there has been plenty of debate about how the resolution to the Dustin Byfuglien situation (he’s still suspended and awaiting the scheduling of his arbitration case) could impact how much money the By Ken Wiebe Jan 29, 2020 Jets have available to them during the coming weeks.

Since he’s been suspended since the start of the season, Byfuglien’s salary hasn’t counted toward the cap – which in theory should give the Buy, sell or stand pat? Jets an additional $7.6 million to work with. The options available to general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and the In practice, though, it’s not quite that simple, since the Jets need to keep Winnipeg Jets have been much clearer in the recent past, but the that cap space open until the decision is rendered or until Byfuglien is decision is getting closer to needing to be made. ready to play. After using their mantra of staying in the fight and receiving elite And we’re no closer to knowing if Byfuglien will take another shift in the goaltending, the Jets managed to do a good job of remaining above the NHL for the Jets or for another team, since he still hasn’t tested his playoff line for the majority of the first half. surgically repaired ankle on the ice (which is the next step on the road to But a full-on stumble accompanied the Jets into the NHL All-Star break recovery). and bye week that followed put those playoff chances in peril. Regardless, the situation is much different than it would have been had Four consecutive losses were the tip of the iceberg, but to ignore the fact Byfuglien chosen to retire this summer. the Jets have only five wins during their past 18 games (5-11-2) wouldn’t If the Jets had a bit more time to contemplate life without Byfuglien, their be prudent either. approach to free agency and potential trades would have been altered That’s why Cheveldayoff and his management team are faced with a significantly. more difficult choice in these weeks and change leading into the Feb. 24 That’s the reality, but it doesn’t change the fact the Jets need to upgrade trade deadline. their blue line. The Jets open up with four stiff tests coming out of the break: Friday’s Even with Tucker Poolman expected to be ready to return to action out of game against the Bruins, Saturday’s tilt with the Blues, Tuesday’s the break and Beaulieu not expected to be that far behind, the Jets are in matchup with the Predators and a rematch with the Blues next Thursday. the market for a D-man that could bolster one of the top two pairings. Colleague Murat Ates has made his vote in favour of the Jets being If the Jets can find someone who worked out the way Michal Kempny did sellers and I can see where he’s coming from, though my suggestion for the Capitals in 2017, Cheveldayoff would be thrilled. veers down a slightly different path. Seen as a depth pickup at the time, Kempny played top-four minutes First and foremost, let’s deal with what is abundantly clear: the Jets aren’t during Washington’s run to the Stanley Cup. going to stand pat. The Jets had reasonably similar success last spring, when Beaulieu There are currently four defencemen (Dmitry Kulikov, Luca Sbisa, stepped onto the top pairing with Jacob Trouba after Josh Morrissey was Anthony Bitetto and Nathan Beaulieu), three forwards (waiver wire pick- injured in the final game before the trade deadline. up Nick Shore, late free agent signing Gabriel Bourque and Mark Letestu, who is expected to be out for the season while dealing with the The difference was that Beaulieu moved to the press box when heart condition myocarditis) and backup goalie Laurent Brossoit who are Morrissey returned, while Kempny saw his role enhanced during the playing on expiring contracts and eligible to become unrestricted free playoffs. agents on July 1. First of all, let’s examine the situation the Jets are in. Brossoit was hoping to build on his brilliant 2018-19 campaign and possibly challenge for a No. 1 job elsewhere next summer; that was the Despite a rough patch plenty of observers felt was inevitable given the premise behind him taking a one-year deal. poor underlying metrics (for the record, I wasn’t necessarily one of them), the Jets remain only three points out of a playoff spot in the Western Things haven’t been nearly as smooth for Brossoit this season, but the Conference and hold a game in hand on the Vegas Golden Knights. goalie market can be volatile and he might see another year with the Jets as the best choice in the offseason. That’s merely a point of reference, as the Jets have plenty of company and face a long and arduous road to be a playoff team. Shore was a smart pickup, a versatile forward who helped stabilize the fourth line but David Gustafsson should be ready to assume that role in The Jets aren’t out of it, but aren’t expected to be shopping solely in the the fall. rental market, which is why it wouldn’t shock me if Cheveldayoff went back to the future to try and find a solution. Bourque and Letestu were expected to help the penalty kill, but that didn’t transpire. It’s important to remember the circumstances are obviously different than in February 2015, when Cheveldayoff made a blockbuster deal with the Could the Jets move one or several of those D-men for picks or Sabres. prospects? Evander Kane and Zach Bogosian were looking for a fresh start and got Perhaps, but none of the players listed above would generate a premium one, while the rights to college goalie Jason Kasdorf were also included return. in the deal.

A year ago, the Jets utilized three self rentals in defencemen Ben Chiarot The Jets return included Myers, pending UFA Drew Stafford (who signed and Tyler Myers and forward Brandon Tanev and pushed a few more an extension), Joel Armia, Lemieux and a 2015 first-rounder that became chips in by dealing a 2019 first-round pick and feisty forward Brendan Jack Roslovic. Lemieux to the Rangers for Kevin Hayes. Myers and Stafford seemed rejuvenated by the move to a contending The Jets were a legitimate Stanley Cup contender and they were never team and the pair helped the Jets qualify for the playoffs, though it ended going to sell off expiring contracts for futures. abruptly with a four-game sweep to the Ducks.

Acquiring a centre like Hayes – the same way Cheveldayoff picked up Oddly enough, Roslovic is the only player from that deal left on the Jets Paul Stastny from the Blues one year earlier – was absolutely the right roster. (Bogosian remains with Buffalo but has asked for a trade.) move, even if the impact wasn’t nearly the same as in 2017, when Roslovic might also make the most sense as a potential trade chip for the Jets to try and find that upgrade on the back end, though he was considered to be on the untouchable list at this time last year when the DeMelo to stick around – given the opportunities that are available in Jets were looking into the possibility of a Mark Stone deal. Winnipeg on the right side – rather than test free agency.

This is not to suggest a blockbuster is the most likely outcome for the Damon Severson, New Jersey Devils Jets over the next several weeks, but it wouldn’t be shocking if Cheveldayoff wanted to change the mix a bit, especially on the blue line. 25 years old, 49 GP, 6 G, 11 A, 22:26 TOI, $4.166 million cap hit through 2022-23 To that end, here are five D-men the Jets could be targeting. The Devils currently have an interim head coach and GM, so all things Alec Martinez, Los Angeles Kings are under evaluation.

32 years old, 32 GP, 1 G, 5 A, 21:18 TOI, $4 million AAV through 2020- They also have two pending unrestricted free agents on the blue line 21 (captain Andy Greene and Sami Vatanen) and since Severson is playing more than two minutes above his career average, it stands to reason The veteran would bring Stanley Cup-winning pedigree, be available for he’s one of the Devils’ building blocks moving forward. two potential playoff runs, carries a very reasonable cap hit and brings the versatility of being able to play either the left (his natural side) or right However, the Devils fit the bill as a team looking for a reboot, so all things side. could be on the table for them, provided the Jets have someone that catches their attention. The Kings have the For Sale sign up and their intentions are clear, but when a guy like Martinez is made available, there will be a number of The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 bidders for his services – which drives up the price.

The Jake Muzzin deal is going to be looked at by many as a comparable and the Maple Leafs put together a solid package to get him, including a 2019 first-round selection.

Rasmus Ristolainen, Buffalo Sabres

25 years old, 50 GP, 5 G, 18 A, 22:44 TOI, $5.4 million AAV through 2021-22

The Finnish blueliner’s name was linked in trade rumours to the Jets this past summer, when it appeared as though Ristolainen was open to being dealt. But the Sabres made a coaching change and Ralph Krueger wanted to see if he could find a better fit for Ristolainen before the organization moved on from the 2013 eighth overall pick.

Ristolainen’s minutes per game are down roughly 1:20 from his career average, but he’s been a consistent performer on a Sabres team that’s had plenty of up-and-down moments.

Much like the Jets did previously, the Sabres have depth when it comes to right-handed shooters.

Ristolainen would bring plenty of qualities the Jets are looking for, including size (6-foot-4, 218 pounds) to go with a booming shot.

Colin Miller, Buffalo Sabres

27 years old, 34 GP, 1 G, 6 A, 16:54 TOI, $3.875 million through 2021-22 season

The plethora of right-handed shots has meant Miller has been in and out of the Sabres lineup and he hasn’t had the type of impact anticipated when he was acquired from the Golden Knights.

Miller is best served on the third pairing, but he has a good shot and could provide a boost to the second power play unit.

His experience in helping the Golden Knights reach the Stanley Cup final during their inaugural season would also provide some stability.

Miller was also part of a winning culture with the Boston Bruins before he was claimed in the expansion draft.

The cost of acquisition would likely be considerably lower than what is expected in a trade for either of the players mentioned above.

Dylan DeMelo, Ottawa Senators

26 years old, 40 GP, 0 G, 8 A, 20:06 TOI, $900,000 cap hit, pending UFA

The Jets aren’t expected to be doing much shopping in the rental market, though this could represent an opportunity to get a jump on the competition.

DeMelo put up a career-best 22 points with the Senators last season and had 20 points the year before with the Sharks before he was one of the key pieces in the deal that sent Erik Karlsson to San Jose.

The bulk of the points DeMelo has produced during the past three seasons have come at even strength and the Jets could use a bit more offensive production from their back end.

Provided the Jets view him as a guy who could play on the second pairing or be part of a shutdown pairing, they might be able to entice 1173589 Vancouver Canucks The Canucks also lost Fantenberg for the duration of the game after Vlasic’s high stick. Green reported Fantenberg would be available the rest of the trip but Motte might be out for a while.

Canucks 5 Sharks 2: Canucks come back for fourth straight win To that point, the line had made its presence felt. With the Canucks trailing 1-0 midway though the first, Motte hit the post before Jones stopped Beagle on a good chance. From that point the Canucks found some traction and Hughes tied the game a couple of minutes later when Ed Willes he made a sublime turn on the boards and blew a slapper by Jones.

“If you want to have a good team in the NHL you have to have four lines SAN JOSE — With the eyes of the hockey world glued on Edmonton, the you can trust,” Green said before the game. “When you’re on the road Vancouver Canucks survived a shaky start and a pair of one-goal deficits you don’t get the matchup you want. The onus is on every line to play on their way to a comeback win at their personal house of horrors. against anyone. When you have a line like that you can trust it’s a nice option.” Here’s what we learned from their 5-2 win over the San Jose Sharks. Well it was a nice option. With Motte missing, Green brought out the Down but not out mixmaster in the third period. J.T. Miller slotted in on the fourth line when Sutter scored the fourth Canucks goal. Down a couple of men and trailing on the scoreboard, the Canucks took control of the affair with a three-goal blitz in just over five minutes in the “Sometimes it’s going to be ugly that was definitely tonight,” said Sutter. third. Tyler Myers started the run when his long slapper beat Sharks “It was a greasy way to find a win but good teams find a way to win no goalie Martin Jones through a crowd. matter what.”˚

With Marc-Edouard Vlasic serving a four-minute minor for high sticking Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 Oscar Fantenberg, Jake Virtanen gave the Canucks the lead for good when he snapped a wrister past Jones. A minute later, Brandon Sutter stuffed home a rebound off a scramble and the Canucks were on their way to their fourth-straight win and six in their last seven.

Tanner Pearson added an empty netter with just over a minute left.

Jacob Markstrom turned in another professional night’s work in the Canucks’ net, stopping 38 of 40 shots.

“We just wanted to get a goal,” said head coach Travis Green. “It’s funny when you get one all of a sudden you start feeling good about yourself. When you’re winning some games the confidence starts to roll down hill. It felt like it did in the third.”

Markstrom recorded his seventh straight win when he’s faced 40 or more shots. He was also making his first start in 10 days for the Canucks.

“I felt really good, calm,” he said. “I came in after a 10-day break before and learned from that. Don’t rush things and don’t be so jitter-buggish. I was happy with tonight’s game.”

Tough start

The Canucks needed that third-period rally. Job No.1 in San Jose is always getting through the first 10 minutes unscathed and the Canucks were, well, scathed in the first half of the opening 20.

Tomas Hertl opened the scoring just over four minutes in when Markstrom kicked a Timo Meier drive directly to the Sharks’ forward. That was part of a stretch in which the Canucks were outshot 8-1 against a team whose playoff hopes are on life support.

Quinn Hughes tied the game midway through the first frame but the Canucks never fully established themselves in the first two periods. Brent Burns gave the Sharks a 2-1 lead midway through the second.

The Sharks, who lost Hertl to an injury early in the first, also held a 28-13 advantage in shots on goal through 40. Green had the scoring chances 16-5 for the Sharks at the end of two.

“We weren’t happy after two periods but the positive thing is it’s a 2-1 game,” said Markstrom.

They can thank the goalie for that.

“We knew they were a desperate team and they were going to come out hard,” said Jay Beagle. “They did. This is one of those games where we didn’t play our best but we found a way.

“Obviously Marky keeps us in it. Without him making huge saves it probably gets away from us.”

Effective fourth line

The Canucks’ fourth line — Beagle, Sutter and Tyler Motte — was in the process of emerging as a key component but two members of that unit went down with injuries in the second. Beagle went off after blocking an Erik Karlsson slap shot on a Sharks’ power play but returned for the third. Motte went directly to the dressing room after Karlsson slammed him into the boards on another Sharks’ power play and didn’t return. 1173590 Vancouver Canucks

Kraken? Probably better than Seattle Sockeyes anyway — and here's why

Patrick Johnston

The Canucks' logo would make for some serious fun if the Seattle NHLers were to be named after a salmon species.

If Seattle Kraken is to be the nickname for the Emerald City’s NHL expansion team, there’s going to be plenty of fun had with it, one way or another.

According to the Seattle Times’s Geoff Baker, one of the rumoured other names in the mix, the Sockeyes, may have run into trademark issues around a series of romance novels. Yes, you read that right. Kraken, it seems, may be the preferred name for the new team, which is expected to wear salmon and light-blue-coloured uniforms.

But even if that weren’t the case, there’s another good reason for NHL Seattle to avoid the pink-hued Pacific fish: avoiding the obvious comparison that would be made with their closest geographic rivals.

Salmon, after all, are a primary food source for orcas.

And you know who has an orca on their sweater…

The representations of Vancouver hockey players eating Seattle hockey players for breakfast, lunch and dinner would be endless, no doubt.

“I think sockeyes would be a horrible decision for that very reason,” says Brad Carmichael who lives in Seattle but who hails from Nanaimo. “I’ve been to Blue Jays games here. Every Canucks game would involve an arena filled with Canucks fans carrying depictions of orcas demolishing their salmon meal.”

Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173591 Vancouver Canucks Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020

Patrick Johnston: Are the Canucks, Judd Brackett headed in different directions?

Patrick Johnston

Canucks director of amateur scouting Judd Brackett needs a new contract.

One thing we know for sure about Judd Brackett, the Vancouver Canucks’ director of amateur scouting: his contract expires this summer.

Canucks general manager and Brackett have discussed an extension, but it’s not clear if the partnership between the two — one that has netted the Canucks a series of promising draft picks — will continue beyond June’s NHL draft in Montreal.

“We’ve offered him an extension, a two-year extension. I’m in negotiations with him,” Benning said when asked about the status of his director of amateur scouting. “I don’t foresee any problems.”

The GM may be optimistic, but when you start hearing Brackett’s name being whispered by people outside of Vancouver, you wonder if re- signing Brackett is a slam-dunk. Benning promoted Brackett to lead the amateur scouting department in 2015, seven years after the Boston- based Brackett first joined the Canucks as a part-timer.

Just like a high-profile player who is headed toward free agency draws the interest of suitors — even if they can’t officially negotiate — there’s little doubt Brackett will he’ll be a sought-after signature by other teams in the NHL.

Brackett has been a key player in the well-reviewed drafts of recent seasons.

Even though Trevor Linden’s departure from the team presidency in 2018 put a whole lot more of the overall management duties on the desk of Benning than he had before, the GM seems to be getting back toward doing his favourite thing: scouting.

Benning said earlier this month that one of the reasons why Chris Gear had been promoted to be Benning’s second assistant GM was to make him and John Weisbrod, the other AGM, available to do more scouting.

Benning’s approach has been, more and more, to be relatively hands-off with many of his department heads, leaving the likes of Ryan Johnson with the Comets, Gear with the collective bargaining agreement and the salary cap and Jonathan Wall with the team’s analytics, alone to do their jobs.

Anyone who has spoken with Benning notes he is at his most animated when he’s talking about young hockey hopefuls, so you can understand why his instincts have kept drawing him back to where he’s most comfortable.

The solid reviews Benning, Brackett and the scouting team have garnered over their last three drafts is a testament to a collaborative approach. Collaborative can also mean forceful debates. Take, for example, the discussions around picking Elias Pettersson in 2017.

Linden acknowledged after how forcefully Brackett and co. argued in favour of taking the Alien with the fifth-overall pick that year. The alternative was Cody Glass.

How does the Canucks’ pathway, both in terms of on-ice performance and in terms of the revenue stream, look over the past two years if we’re living in a Glass universe?

“The thing to remember is that, in a general sense, it’s very rare for a pick at the NHL draft to be the result of one amateur scout’s analysis. It’s a collaborative effort,” said J.D. Burke, lead draft analyst for EliteProspects.com and also editor in chief of EP’s Rinkside subscription service.

From the 2019 draft, Burke said it was clear to him that Vasili Podkolzin, Nils Hoglander, Arvid Costmar, Jack Malone and Aidan McDonough were players who fit the overall approach that Brackett has pushed his team of scouts toward: players who have smarts and are good skaters. 1173592 Vancouver Canucks a wide margin. But he’s had seven over the last three games, a stretch when his ice time has also slipped to the 14-minutes-per-game range.

“I haven’t had as many shots lately,” Boeser said. “I think I have to get Ed Willes: Boeser downplays points slump, but expect some panic if it more pucks to the net. When I start doing that I gain confidence and you continues go from there. I think that’s when I’m playing my best hockey.”

Despite the recent downturn, Boeser is still on pace for 26 goals and 70 points, which puts this whole discussion in the area of first-world Ed Willes problems for the Canucks. The biggest story with this team is the 12-3 stretch it was on before Wednesday night. Boeser’s recent struggles are

a tiny sidebar to that main theme. SAN JOSE, Calif. — Travis Green met with Brock Boeser before But a fully formed Canucks team also needs a fully formed Boeser in the Wednesday’s game here against the Sharks and, while the details of lineup. Since his rookie season he’s had the look of an elite goal scorer their conversation remain confidential, it seems the coach and player and, even if he doesn’t turn 23 for another month, he needs to re- talked about a variety of subjects. establish his presence in the lineup. Yes, the matter of Boeser’s five-game pointless streak was raised, as “I don’t sugar-coat things,” Green said. “Brock’s a young player. There’s was a subpar performance against the St. Louis Blues on Monday. But, certain parts of his game that need to improve. There’s certain parts a lot big picture, there aren’t any major concerns. of players on our team that needs to improve. The team is winning. Boeser isn’t the first player to go through a slump. “I checked in with him today. We talked about points. They’re going to Nothing to see here except the Canucks at the top of the Pacific Division. come. He’s a scorer and he’s going to score.” “I’m nowhere other than the place I was five games ago with Brock,” In this case, sooner would be better than later. Green answered when asked where he was with his 22-year-old sniper. “He’s doing fine. He’s a big part of our team. Sometimes you shuffle the Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 deck and win games. I haven’t thought about it for a second.”

OK, but if that’s true, it puts Green in a small minority in this province.

While Boeser’s performance has been masked by a Canucks team on its best run in five seasons, it’s the one area that qualifies as a mini-issue in their world. Boeser’s pointless streak has coincided with a move to the Canucks’ third line, and while Green doesn’t frame that as a demotion, it’s difficult to read it any other way.

The 0-fer is also part of a larger trend that gives the faithful pause. Over his last 22 games, Boeser has five goals. The power play, where he remains on the first unit, is also in its first sustained funk of the season, going 3-for-34 over its last nine games.

Jake Virtanen, meanwhile, has recorded five points in his last three games playing with Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller, Boeser’s former linemates.

NEXT GAME

Saturday

Vancouver Canucks vs. New York Islanders

10 a.m., Barclays Center, TV: Sportsnet Pacific; Radio: Sportsnet 650 AM

Maybe it’s a nothing-burger and Boeser, like all scorers, can turn this around in a heartbeat. But until he does, this will remain a talking point.

“You want to make sure a guy is confident and not down,” said Green. “I talked to Brock about his game. We do it differently with every player. Some of our guys are younger. We want to make sure they’re in a good place.

“Brock Boeser is a helluva player. Guys want to play. Scorers want to get points. But show me a guy who hasn’t gone through a drought in the NHL. There aren’t many.”

Green, as it happens, moved Virtanen up to the Canucks’ nominal first line two weeks ago during a loss to Winnipeg. Since then the Canucks have rattled off three consecutive wins.

True, they were running pretty hot before that streak. But Boeser’s place on the first line and his level of production seemed to be a given.

Now? Well, maybe for the first time in his young career people are asking questions of the kid from Minnesota.

“I think my game’s still fine,” Boeser said. “Our line (with Adam Gaudette and Antoine Roussel) had some good games before the (all-star) break. Obviously we didn’t have a great game the last game (against the Blues), but there are always bumps on the road. It’s something you have to work through.”

Boeser believes that will start with his best asset, his shot. He’s registered 153 shots on goal this season, the highest on the Canucks by 1173593 Vancouver Canucks McCabe, meanwhile, was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks with a conditional draft pick for the No. 4 overall selection at the ’99 draft, which kicked off a series of moves by then-Canucks general manager Brian Burke that led to Vancouver taking Daniel and Henrik Sedin with the No. Canucks at 50: Trevor Linden '98 trade to Islanders more sad than a 2 and No 3 overall choices. surprise Just-traded Trevor Linden faces the Vancouver media in his farewell news conference at GM Place on Feb. 6, 1998. STUART DAVIS/The Province / PNG files Steve Ewen The Canucks had hired Burke in June 1998. They hadn’t replaced Pat

Quinn as GM when he was fired prior to the Keenan hiring. Burke fired Even all these years later, the most shocking thing about the Vancouver Keenan in January 1999, and brought in Marc Crawford as his Canucks trading away Trevor Linden is that it wasn’t shocking at all. replacement.

Linden was a franchise staple when the Canucks shipped him to the New Two years later, Burke reacquired Linden on Nov, 10, 2001, in a trade York Islanders on Feb. 6, 1998 for Todd Bertuzzi, Bryan McCabe and a with the Washington Capitals that featured he Capitals using 1998 third-round draft pick that would become Jarkko Ruutu. Vancouver’s first-round pick, No. 17 overall, in the 2002 draft on forward Boyd Gordon. At the time, Linden was days away from representing Canada at the Nagano Winter Olympic Games and months away from his 28th birthday. Linden was back in a leadership spot on a Canucks team that featured He was four years removed from leading the Canucks to the Stanley Cup the Sedin twins in their early 20s and led by the likes of Bertuzzi, who final. was NHL’s pre-eminent power forward at the time and part of one of the league’s most dangerous forward lines, playing alongside Markus In that first of two stints with Vancouver, Linden played 702 regular- Naslund and Brendan Morrison on what was dubbed the West Coast season games and that alone is a mark only eight other players have Express. surpassed with the club. Linden’s final two seasons with Vancouver had him playing in front of Any talk of a Mount Rushmore of Vancouver sports has to include Linden goaltender Roberto Luongo. Then-Canucks GM , who had in the conversation, along with Lui Passaglia, Bobby Lenarduzzi, Henrik succeeded Burke, landed Luongo from the Florida Panthers on June 23, and Daniel Sedin and maybe a couple of others. 2006 for a package highlighted by Bertuzzi.

The Canucks had signed Mark Messier as a free agent the summer Linden retired as a player after the 2007-08 season with 1,140 regular before that 1997-98 season, then brought in as a coach season games in Canucks colours. That’s the third most in franchise with massive say in player personnel moves in November, and there was history, behind only Henrik and Daniel Sedin. a feeling amongst Canucks Nation immediately that Linden’s days with the club were numbered. With how the Sedin and Luongo performed in helping the Canucks to the 2011 Stanley Cup final, you could also argue that Linden had a hand in They were numbered 85. That’s how many days passed between that as well. Keenan’s hiring and the trade of Linden to the Islanders. Did we mention that the Florida general manager at the time of the “The phone board had been hopping for many weeks with people Luongo trade was Keenan? debating the inevitable trade, so when it actually happened most people were not surprised,” Dan Russell, who was in the heart of his 30-year run It’s funny sometimes how things wind up. with his Sportstalk radio show at the time of the Linden swap, explained Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 in a Twitter direct message interview. “But most were sad, as they recognized what he gave to the team and the city.”

Trevor Linden (left) was publicly putting on the best face when, at training camp in Japan in 1997, he stepped aside as team captain while Mark Messier was handed the ‘C.’ But he felt very differently about what and how it happened. ‘This was the beginning of the end’ for Linden’s first chapter in Vancouver, recalls broadcaster Dan Russell. Jeff Vinnick/Vancouver Sun, / PNG files

The Canucks played their first two regular season games that campaign in Tokyo against the Anaheim Ducks. Russell took his show on the road with them. Linden agreed to give up the captain’s C to Messier during that trip.

“I will never forget the day,” said Russell, who had been an avid supporter of the Western Hockey League and met Linden while he was playing in the league with the Tigers a decade earlier.

“Trevor was a very frequent guest on our show, including as a weekly regular. He was always so upbeat. But when he made his way to my broadcast location in Tokyo I had never seen that sadness before in his eyes. I saw him with his blackened eyes, ice packs, bruises on his body just a few minutes after the Game 7 loss in New York. But this look was different. Even though he wasn’t to be traded for several months, this was the beginning of the end.”

Linden and McCabe, a defenceman with grit, some offensive panache and who was 22 at the time, would last the rest of that season plus the full 1998-99 season with their respective new clubs before both being traded for first-round picks at the 1999 NHL Entry Draft.

Linden went to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for the No. 10 selection, which the Islanders used on 6-5, 251-pound defenceman Branislav Mezei, a Slovakian with the OHL’s . He played 240 games in the NHL before heading to Europe after the 2007-08 season. Now 39, he’s still playing this season in Slovakia with his hometown team in Nitra. 1173594 Vancouver Canucks But Linden always made a bigger impact away from the ice. We never saw him perform his magic in hospital rooms, holding the hands of sick kids. We only heard the stories. Linden always took this responsibility of being a professional athlete seriously. He didn’t just show up for the Canucks at 50: The day 'it was time for Trevor Linden to leave home' photo-op like some other players. Linden always felt an obligation to give more.

Last year I wrote about one of those kids that Linden touched. A young STAFF REPORTER boy with terminal cancer named Matt Harvey. Harvey didn’t know much about Linden before they first shook hands. But before his disease cut his young life short, Linden had filled sour days with happiness for Matt. Then-Vancouver Sun scribe Gary Mason's tribute to the departing Trevor Just being near a hero was enough for Matt to forget the horrible pain he Linden: 'Boy was it going to be hard watching him walk out the door' lived with. Being near Matt was enough to remind Trevor Linden how lucky he was. And he never forgot that. Ever. When Trevor Linden was traded from the Canucks it was a shock. As an icon of the city, he was much more than a hockey player to most. The In the end, sadly, what Trevor Linden did away from the ice didn’t mean a Vancouver Sun’s Gary Mason wrote a tribute column to Linden that we’re lot to fans who were just sick of a losing team. Linden had his fans. He running in its entirety: had his detractors, too. They felt Canuckville had become a country club and Linden was the one booking most of the tee times. They felt a It wouldn’t be a teary farewell. Trevor Linden wasn’t going to show how change might do everyone good. much this hurt. He didn’t have to. Just-traded Trevor Linden faces the Vancouver media in his farewell He’d already spilled his tears over this miserable season. So when it was news conference at GM Place on Feb. 6, 1998. STUART DAVIS/The time to say goodbye Friday afternoon, he summoned all his courage, Province / PNG files found all his composure, said all the right things. Linden didn’t have much to smile about this season. But he did have the “I’m going to leave so many good memories here, I can’t begin to start,” Olympics. That was something Mike Keenan wasn’t going to take away he said. from him. He was going to get a chance that even Mark Messier wasn’t Regrets, there’ve been a few. But then again … well, you know how the getting. The Olympics, Linden hoped, would help ease some of the pain song goes. For some reason I don’t feel like singing. of this season.

Of course, this trade was coming for months. Or at least since Mike When he injured his knee in Phoenix last week he thought that dream Keenan arrived and decided Linden wasn’t his type of hockey player. was over. Between periods, in the trainer’s room, Linden wept. He was That he wasn’t tough enough for the team Keenan wanted. That his found by a teammate who consoled him. Trevor Linden’s world was as game wasn’t what it once was. Few could argue that. dark as it gets.

Keenan had also been in enough dressing rooms to know that as long as I flew home with him the next day. I’d never seen a sadder looking Linden was in his, it would make Mark Messier’s job as captain almost athlete. He couldn’t believe how badly this season had gone. How bad impossible. Such was the loyalty that Linden engendered. Keenan knew things had become between himself and Keenan. He felt horrible for the instantly that change on this team had to include the former captain. fans. He also knew he wouldn’t be a Canuck much longer.

It was time for Trevor Linden to leave home. That’s what it felt like Friday, “I’ll miss so much about Vancouver,” he said. “I basically grew up there. a family member moving out of the house. After all, we’d watched him The people were so great. I’ll really miss ….” grow up before our eyes. From a gangly, 18-year-old kid from Medicine It all. Hat, who arrived with the hopes of a hockey-mad town on his shoulders, to the young man who stood before us now, 10 years older, married, At the end of his news conference Friday, reporters came up to shake wise to all the frustrations and disappointments adulthood brings. hands and say goodbye. It was sad. Some of them had covered Linden since he arrived as a teenager. Others, like myself, had only a short time Trevor Linden (left) was publicly putting on the best face when, at training to recognize what a special hockey player he was. A special person, too. camp in Japan in 1997, he stepped aside as team captain while Mark Messier was handed the ‘C.’ But he felt very differently about how it “So, ah, take care of yourself,” I stammered, thrusting out my hand. happened. Jeff Vinnick/Vancouver Sun, / PNG files “Yeah, I will,” he said. “Thanks for everything.” It was time to move on. But boy was it going to be hard watching him walk out the door. He slowly made his way down the hall, no longer a Canuck.

Nothing’s forever anymore in sport. Wayne Gretzky proved it. And so did Nothing is forever. many after him. Ray Bourque may be the only modern-day star who As the Canucks celebrate their 50th season, we’re looking back at the finishes his career with the same team he started with. Linden always moments that stand out as the biggest in franchise history on the ice and dreamed he’d be as lucky as him. off, good, and a few bad. We’re highlighting the top moments from the (Eds. note: Bourque would not finish his career with the Bruins after all. 1970s through November, the ’80s in December, the ’90s in January, the He was traded from Boston in 2000 to the Colorado Avalanche, where he ’00s in February and the ’10s in March. went on to win his one and only Stanley Cup in 2001.) Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 “I never envisioned leaving,” Linden told reporters. “I definitely didn’t think I’d be standing here today.”

Not when the season started anyway.

If there is one enduring image of Trevor Linden during his time here, it will be him holding up the Clarence Campbell trophy after the Canucks beat the Toronto Maple Leafs to advance to the Stanley Cup Final in 1994. He wore a black eye proudly. His nose also had a new curve.

It was his finest moment as a Canuck, to be followed only by troubles and troubling questions.

Linden never was a fancy player. He flourished under simple systems, when he knew where his wingers were going to be. He wasn’t afraid of a body check. But he was never a fighter. He could skate. Yep, Trevor Linden could fly when he wanted to. 1173595 Vancouver Canucks ”We tried everything to get him going except put bamboo shoots under his fingernails,” said Milbury.

”If I thought he could fulfill his potential I’d be a fool to make this deal Canucks at 50: Trevor Linden trade 'ended both an era and a feud' because his potential is so vast.”

And while hindsight shows that the deal worked out better for the Canucks on the ice, at the time Linden was traded the impact was almost Staff Reporter felt more off the ice. Jim Jamieson and Tony Gallagher wrote:

Some would say Trevor Linden‘s finest moments as a Vancouver Canuck came in the 1994 playoffs, his hoisting of the Campbell Conference While the relationship between Trevor Linden and coach Mike Keenan trophy after the victory over Toronto in the conference championship or had eroded to the point that people could see a trade coming on Feb. 6, his two-goal performance in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final. 1998, it was still a major shock that Linden, who had been the face of the franchise through the 1990s, was shipped out of town. Terry Bell for The But Linden has had other fine moments of much lower profile. And while Province reported on the day the deal went down: the biggest trade in club history may take time to assess, his loss will be felt immediately. For the last decade Trevor Linden was the heart and soul of the Vancouver Canucks. A smile lights up the face of six-year-old Ewen Newton in 1995 as he talks with then-Canucks captain Trevor Linden at B.C. Children’s On Friday all that heart and all that soul packed their bags and went to Hospital. Ian Lindsay/Vancouver Sun / PNG files the New York Islanders in return for 22-year-old defenceman Bryan McCabe, forward Todd Bertuzzi, 23, and a third round draft pick. ”The whole house is in mourning, we’re all in shock,” said Ronald McDonald House manager Ann Goodliffe, who has been on hand for The deal ended both an era and a feud. Linden, who handed over his Linden’s many visits to the hospice for sick children in the eight years captaincy to Mark Messier on the eve of the season opener, had been in she’s had the job. coach Mike Keenan’s doghouse since a much-publicized spat in St. Louis on December 8. ”I don’t think he ever really understood the impact he had on the kids. A child would be having a bad day but you saw the attitude completely ”It’s been a very emotional day,” said the 27-year-old Linden. ”It’s been a change after a visit from Trevor. It was worth a pile of medication. very emotional last few weeks. It’s not the biggest surprise. I’d kind of figured it out that I’d be traded.” ”He made more visits here than the rest of the team put together. He’d play games with the kids or do jigsaw puzzles. He just did it because he Linden, who’s still recovering from a knee injury, seemed almost upbeat wanted to. We’re really going to miss him, but we’re confident he’ll and said he’s looking forward to life on Long Island. maintain contact with us.” ”I’ll go to Nagano (with Team Canada) Sunday,” he said. ”I’ll enjoy that The big right winger was a key part of Vancouver’s rise to the top of the and then come back and join my new team. But we’ll (he and wife old in the early ’90s, scoring goals and handing out big Cristina) be back in the summers and we’ll probably return here some hits. But Linden’s defining moment came in the 1994 playoffs, that magic day.” spring when the Canucks marched all the way to the Stanley Cup final ‘Not the biggest surprise’ for Trevor Linden — The Province reports on and nearly won it all. the Linden trade in its Sunday, Feb. 8, 1998 edition. Linden was always good in the playoffs, but his performance in 1994 put Inevitable was one word that came up a lot Friday. But Linden, who has him among the stars of the league. His battered and scarred body just seven goals and 14 assists in 42 games this year, said he didn’t think produced 12 goals and 25 points in the 24 playoff games. it was inevitable that he’d be traded when Keenan was hired. Goalie Kirk McLean and captain Trevor Linden ‘hug it out’ after the ”I was quite looking forward to things,” said Linden. ”I thought I’d be his Canucks’ 4-1 win in Game 6 of the 1993-94 Stanley Cup Final. Chris type of player and back then I never, ever envisioned or thought about Relke/Vancouver Canucks / PNG files being up here doing this. From his overtime goal in Game 6 against Calgary in the first round to his ”After St. Louis (a between periods shouting match) I always held out two in the Canucks’ 3-2 loss in Game 7 of the final, Linden was superb. hope that we’d turn things around. But, obviously, the team struggled and He has better than a point a game in his 79 playoff games. it was evident something had to be done.” But the Canucks have found themselves in a downward spiral since the Linden said it wasn’t an ”oil and water” situation with the man they call ’94 Cup final — and the last two seasons so did Linden. Iron Mike. After having his best-ever year for points (33-47-80) in 1995-96, Linden Islanders GM isn’t worried Linden was in Keenan’s hit the skids last season. After playing in the World Cup, he had a terrible doghouse. start with just five goals in his first 24 games and then saw his NHL Ironman streak end at 482 games with a torn MCL in his left knee. ”That’s irrelevant,” said Milbury. ”He’s (Keenan) pretty critical of his own mother.” In the intervening year, the one-time Captain Indestructible missed time with rib, knee, groin and again knee injuries. The trade left the Canucks with just 10 players who were with the team 12 months ago. As the team struggled even worse this season so did Linden. At the time of the trade he had seven goals in 42 games, although some of that Only six players remain from the 1993-94 team that Linden led to within a could be related to his strained relationship with new head coach Mike goal of winning the Stanley Cup. Keenan.

Keenan is pleased with the players he’s getting. His ability to lead was virtually shattered by the arrival this season of Mark Messier, who overshadowed Linden to the point where he had no ”We’re delighted to get Bryan McCabe,” said Keenan. ”He shows a choice but to hand over the C. But, ironically, when Messier wheeled in capability to log a lot of ice time and he’s a cornerstone piece on our Keenan and the coach attacked Linden upon his return from injury in St. defence. He has a presence on offence and he adds grit.” Louis, his popularity again soared — as Messier’s has fallen. The Isles captain was a plus-9 and scored three goals and nine assists in The Canucks got younger in this deal. But at 27 Linden has lot of hockey 56 games this year. He had145 PIM left. Part of his legacy in Vancouver may be to leave egg all over Bertuzzi, 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, is a project. Keenan’s face if this trade doesn’t work out. But that will be just a tiny part of what No. 16 leaves after 10 outstanding years as one of the most Selected 23rd overall by the Islanders in the 1993 draft, Bertuzzi never memorable players in Canucks history. fulfilled his promise with just 7-11-18 and was a minus-19 in 52 games this year. Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173596 Vancouver Canucks the work on this five-game trip that includes back-to-back matinees Saturday and Sunday.

5. Horvat owning the circle Canucks Game Day: Pettersson adds pushback to his playmaking poise Bo Horvat won 70 per cent of his faceoffs Monday (14-for-20). He has taken the second-most NHL draws and has the second-highest amount of wins. He has also won the most league power-play draws and has a Ben Kuzma 56.9 per cent overall efficiency.

PROJECTED LINEUPS

Vancouver Canucks (28-18-4) at San Jose Sharks (22-25-4), CANUCKS Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., SAP Center, Sportsnet Pacific, Sportsnet 650. Forwards NEXT GAME Tanner Pearson — Bo Horvat — Loui Eriksson Wednesday J.T. Miller — Elias Pettersson — Jake Virtanen Vancouver Canucks (28-18-4) vs. San Jose Sharks (22-25-4) Antoine Roussel — Adam Gaudette — Brock Boeser 7:30 p.m., SAP Center, TV: Sportsnet Pacific, Radio: Sportsnet 650 Tyler Motte — Jay Beagle — Brandon Sutter THE BIG MATCHUP Defence Elias Pettersson vs. Erik Karlsson Alex Edler — Troy Stecher When you keep popping up on statistical tracking sites, it either means you’re moving into elite company as a maturing young player or your Quinn Hughes — Chris Tanev career is moving into the back nine. Oscar Fantenberg — Tyler Myers For Pettersson, it means the slick Swedish centre continues to chase Goalies: Jacob Markstrom, Thatcher Demko franchise production marks at age 21. He was 15th in NHL scoring with 52 points (21-31) after a 3-1 win over St. Louis on Monday in which he SHARKS had an assist. For franchise players in their first two seasons, he has equalled Dale Tallon’s 69 helpers, and with 32 games left, he could take Forwards a run at Ivan Hlinka’s team record of 81 assists through two seasons. Evander Kane — Tomas Hertl — Timo Meier

Pettersson is multi-dimensional. He can beat you with speed, Barclay Goodrow — Joe Thornton — Kevin Labanc stickhandling, dekes, pinpoint passing and a lethal shot. It’s going to test countryman Karlsson. At 29, Karlsson also moved into elite company Marcus Sorensen — Dylan Gambrell — Patrick Marleau Monday when he hit the 600-point plateau in a 4-2 win over Anaheim. Among players born outside North America, he has taken the fewest Melker Karlsson — Joel Kellman — Stefan Noesen games to reach that lofty production. He needed 730 games to hit 600 Defence points. Borje Salming needed 735 and Nicklas Lidstrom 826. Brenden Dillon — Brent Burns What’s allowing Pettersson to excel is a union with hard-working left winger J.T. Miller, who scored twice Monday, and the recent addition of Marc-Edouard Vlasic — Erik Karlsson Jake Virtanen to the right side. Virtanen has five points in his last three games and his ability to play at pace off the rush is adding another Radim Simek — Mario Ferraro dimension to Pettersson’s game. Goalies: Martin Jones, Aaron Dell

Pettersson is also stronger on the puck because he’s become more of a INJURIES target in his sophomore season. When he gets pushed, he pushes back. That gets you respect and creates more time and space. Canucks: Josh Leivo (fractured kneecap, IR), Micheal Ferland (upper body, LTIR), Tyler Graovac (lower body, IR) “I believe in everything I do,” said Pettersson. “I get more attention and I’ve got to find a way to be more successful to play my best every night.” Sharks: Logan Couture (ankle fracture), Dalton Prout (upper body, IR)

FIVE KEYS TO THE GAME SPECIAL TEAMS

1. Taking temperature of the game POWER PLAY

The Sharks are nine points out of the final Western Conference wild-card Canucks: 7th (23.3%) spot with five teams to pass. There are trade-deadline rumours swirling Sharks: 25th (16.6%) around Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau, and their last meeting with the Canucks — a 4-1 loss Jan. 18 — had 17 penalties and five misconducts. PENALTY KILL The bad blood could spill over. Canucks: 16th (81%) 2. Letting Hughes be Hughes Sharks: 1st (87.3%) Quinn Hughes was stripped of the puck to set up the opening-goal sequence Monday and, while somewhat scolded, he will still be allowed Vancouver Province: LOADED: 01.30.2020 to do his thing. “He was a little bit cute tonight early and had a little bit too much sauce (passes) going,” said Canucks coach Travis Green.

3. Blocking out those shots

Alex Edler and Chris Tanev rank third and fourth, respectively, in NHL blocked shots. The Canucks blocked 23 Monday. “The amount of blocks were crazy,” said Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko. “Those are man blocks when guys are winding up with slapshots and one-timers.”

4. Markstrom setting trip tone

No. 1 goalie Jacob Markstrom was an all-star and an observer Monday as Demko had a 36-save performance. But the starter will get the bulk of 1173597 Websites The problem with having wingers replace D-men is that forwards are programmed to make the aggressive choice in 50/50 situations (or even 40/60 ones), so when the puck pops just loose enough here along the wall that Marner thinks he might be able to keep possession for the The Athletic / Bourne: What does it mean when players or coaches talk Leafs, that aggressive default setting traps him. Part of what makes great about ‘the little things’? offensive players great is their ability to anticipate plays, and Matthews undeniably saw Marner going for that puck there and sniffs out that if

Marner can turn it back over for the Leafs he’s gonna be open in a By Justin Bourne Jan 29, 2020 dangerous part of the rink. And so, he instinctively dives in. (Taking this type of chance has probably resulted in a handful of goals this season alone for Matthews.)

Hockey moves quickly and is continuous, often making it difficult to suss Only, the Leafs don’t have the puck. Quite the opposite. out what just happened on goals in real-time. Combine that with a dozen people being on the ice together, and even the keenest eyes in the game Matthews should still be above that Preds forward in the middle. He’s the need to pour over video to find true causes and effects, patterns and F3 there that’s supposed to be protecting things if the Leafs D — in this trends. case Marner — gets burned, but yeah … he dove in, and now they’re going the wrong way. That distilled information is then passed along to other coaches and players, who in turn relay that to the media, usually boiled down to a It’s not a crisis, it doesn’t speak to some existential concern about comment about the lack of attention to “the details.” Which is kinda Matthews’ game, he took a chance – which is just a “little thing!” – that vague. Or they say they just need to do “the little things” better, without could’ve led to a chance for and it didn’t work out, which led to a goal getting into specifics. I think there’s a lack of general consensus in the against. That’s just a dive in, a guess and a detail he got wrong, and it understanding of what those comments mean. Those who’ve been cost his team. around the game at a high enough level would generally follow, but those Getting pucks ‘behind them,’ not ‘getting pucks deep’ who watch more casually may think that “the little things” refers to shooting it an inch farther inside the post instead of hitting it, or whatever. Hockey’s progressive police have made it sound like the strategy of getting the puck in behind your opponent and going to get it is something I lined up at wing during my playing days, as skill forwards with a distaste from the game’s caveman days. Here’s the thing: when the war is a for their own zone are wont to do. What qualifies as important “details” to constant battle for territory, you’d rather those skirmishes happen near a winger are very different from what the important details are to a their net, as things will eventually break down. If you can control where defenseman, or even a center (though there’s plenty of overlap for all those fights happen, you’d always pick their end. (I’ve got a few Babcock forwards). Still, I thought for today we’d start with the position I notes for you today: one of them is that he likes wingers to “push the understand most, wing, to go over a few things – four things, if you want pace” — as in stretch while streaking across the ice — because while it to be detailed – that qualify as important “little things” for that position. may not result in a clean breakout, the next confrontation happens higher The sin of ‘diving in’ as F3 and away from his team’s net. It’s a territorial play.)

This applies to centers too, as in the offensive zone, there’s no When teams do put the puck in the opposing zone instead of carrying it differentiation between forwards – hence them being referred to as “F’s” in these days, they either employ hard rims (to forecheckers coming by coaches, and not by their more specific labels. down the walls) or soft dumps into the corners, both of which aim to keep the puck from opposing goalie (who can set it up in a favorable position When operating in the offensive zone, forwards are free to get creative, for his team). Both those options force the pivoting defender to go all the to roll around low-to-high and east-to-west and to poke and prod for way back to pick the puck up off the wall, which is easier said than done weaknesses. As far as coaches are concerned, you can do whatever you under pressure. Like a coffin corner punt, the placement of those shoot- want … provided at least one of the three forwards is “high” above the ins is key in enabling your forecheck to win the puck back. play, so a turnover doesn’t result in an odd-man rush against. But more to that point, is that little versions of “dump and chase” are However, when there is a change of possession, that F3 can find more important than ever, and by that, I mean soft wall chips to themselves stuck in no man’s land – too far away to cleanly get to the supporting teammates. As a player without the puck, coaches want you puck or opposing player before they can do something with it, but where slashing through the middle and towards the wall ahead of your retreating feels like making the game feel too easy for your opponent. teammates through the neutral zone so you can pick up soft chips with (And remember, most people in hockey favor pressure and aggression.) time and space and closer to the opposing goal. The idea is essentially Teams get into trouble when that F3 makes a bad decision and foregoes “dumping the puck” without forfeiting possession. the smart, safe play by pulling back and instead dives in to try and disrupt the play. If they make that gamble and put their team at risk, that’s what The problem is, soft chips are easy to order and tough to deliver. They I’m referring to as a true “dive in.” (In hockey the same concepts are involve a great deal of touch while moving at a high speed, like a called a million different things – “dive in” is the term Mike Babcock uses, basketball player tossing up a floater while driving the lane with speed. and it was under him that I became most familiar with identifying dive-ins, There are numerous examples of defenders who are very good at so that’s what we’re going with here.) denying these little chips (Nick Lidstrom was the forefather here), as the puck has to move slower and more precisely, leaving the soft chip up to An example of this was provided by the Maple Leafs on Monday night. get swatted away by hockey’s versions of Dikembe Mutombo. Because Justin Holl pinched down the wall on a Predators winger, shrinking the the play doesn’t seem “essential,” or even all that difficult, forwards zone for Nashville and making a breakout more difficult, while Mitch sometimes relax on those plays, and fail at the little detail of pushing the Marner “filled in” (that’s my co-host Anthony Stewart’s preferred puck back behind the skates of defenders. It’s the difference between terminology for an F replacing a pinching D). I saw Marner getting some playing in your own end or their end. Executing those plays is a small, big blame for getting caught in the middle and not pulling out as a forward detail. higher in the O-zone, which is totally justified. He should have just pulled back to the blue and defended the Preds rush as Holl’s replacement, Getting the middle first instead of pinching down. Details are small. This is a simple one, but teams these days like to clog That said, Matthews’ textbook dive in compounded the problem, and up the middle in the D-zone and keep pucks to the outside, as goalies played just as big of a role in the Predators’ first goal of the game. are supposed to stop shots from out there. It’s only once you let things start coming to or through the middle that you really have issues. For a A quick visual here. Holl pinches down on the Preds winger, and after winger though, that leaves you in plenty of “should I go or not” gray quickly thinking about going after the puck, Marner (circled) identifies his zones. The other team is often buzzing out around your walls, trying to D-man has come down and heads back to fill in behind him. grab the puck, particularly when the other team doesn’t have solid possession. When this happens, Marner becomes a defenceman along with Muzzin, which means that Matthews is still F3 here. He’s the guy up high in the There’s also the reality that, when the puck is on a winger’s strong side – zone providing safe cover for his line. so, their side of the ice – they’re often coached to shrink the zone for the opposing team (which just means getting lower and more into the pile). That puts offensive players under pressure, and it opens up the points a bit. (Babcock wanted his wingers with their skates literally on the wall – his term is “on the rail” – which leaves them pulled way out to the boards.)

All I’m getting at here is wingers are often pulled out of the middle and to the wall, and that means their defencemen often get the puck at the point. “Holding the middle,” is easier said than done. From there though, is the question of what does that forward do when the opposing D-man gets the puck, and you’re supposed to be in the shooting lane? The simple thing that you see a lot of players do is run out to the point and try to block the shot. And that logic is pretty good! In this situation, a blocked shot is the goal. But the angles are not in their favor due to where they are starting from.

The little detail here is, what’s your skating route? Even with the best intentions, this is no good.

The little detail, done right, is to get to the middle first before you start moving up and at the defender.

That forces the opposing D to just put the puck back down into the fray, or get their shot blocked. Fans see plenty of players who “work hard,” right? Their D gets the puck, and they race out there at them? But boy, some of those little terriers never seem to block any shots despite all that hard work. Whether it’s bad thinking or someone who simply doesn’t want to get hit by a puck, it comes down to the important execution of a little detail.

Getting the puck off the wall and into the breakout

Finally is the little question of how, as a winger in the D-zone, do you get the puck off the wall and into a successful breakout? This is such an underrated ability that fans definitely do not appreciate. I appreciate it, because I sucked at it, which was career-limiting. Players are always barrelling down at you, forwards and defensemen alike, and you have to make the type of touch that gets the puck from the wall by the hashmarks in the D-zone, and into the hands of your teammates who are moving up the ice. Sometimes that means to a teammate coming in low support, or up past the D-man to a streaking teammate who’s flying the zone. Either way, you have a split second to decide the right play, and another split second to execute it, or it’s too late and the puck’s staying in the D-zone.

The types of wingers who consistently have bad shot attempt stats are the guys who are bad here because if you can get the puck into the breakout machine, you get to play in the other end. If you can’t, you get hemmed into your own zone.

Are you willing to take the hit to get the puck where it needs to go? Can you execute under that pressure even if you are?

These four things are all little areas of the game that don’t show up on highlight reels but separate the wingers who “do the little things,” from the guys who are “inexplicably” in their coach’s doghouse, seemingly wherever they go.

The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173598 Websites players cross the line all the time. That’s why they created the penalty box. That’s why penalties ramp up — minor, major, match — as infractions get increasingly egregious.

The Athletic / Duhatschek: Does toughness still matter in today’s NHL? Ultimately, the NHL Player Safety department determined that the penalty to Kassian for hurling Tkachuk to the ice with so much force that his helmet came flying off was a two-game suspension. Because of the lingering, incendiary nature of the Kassian-Tkachuk confrontation, both By Eric Duhatschek Jan 29, 2020 teams were subsequently warned by NHL hockey operations to be on their best behaviour when they meet again Wednesday in Edmonton, the first of two meetings between the Flames and Oilers in a three-day span. We were standing in the foyer of the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto a (Calgary hosts the rematch Feb. 1.) Presumably, Kassian has been put couple of weeks ago, discussing a philosophical question — does on high alert by the Oilers to be careful. toughness still matter in the NHL anymore? — when Wendel Clark happened by. (David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)

The timing seemed weirdly serendipitous. There were enough veiled threats and hints at retribution in his post- suspension soliloquy that if something really bad were to happen to Clark, the former Toronto Maple Leafs great, defined toughness during a Tkachuk, the next court of justice the Oiler forward might face could be rough-and-tumble 15-year NHL career. the real thing — a far-less-forgiving entity than the NHL’s version.

As times changed and eras evolved, toughness has become a If Kassian wants or needs or to get a further briefing on what could misunderstood — or poorly defined — quality. Toughness is more than possibly happen when NHL disciplinary matters spill outside the arena, just fighting. Toughness is more than just body-checking — making a hit his boss — Oilers general manager — is probably in a or taking a hit. Sometimes, the true measure of a player’s toughness is position to put him in touch with Todd Bertuzzi, who played for Holland his willingness to go into the hard areas of the ice — along the boards with the Detroit Red Wings. Or Kassian could simply Google “Steve and in front of the net — and fight for space and positioning, no matter Moore incident” and get a refresher there. how much they are being battered by an opponent. Chances are, therefore, that forewarned is forearmed — and that So Wendel: Does toughness still matter, even in today’s kinder, gentler smarter, cooler heads will ultimately prevail when the Oilers and Flames NHL? resume hostilities. Anyone expecting an old-fashioned take-him-to-the- woodshed beating is probably — probably — going to end up “Toughness is still the biggest part of the game,” answered Clark. “Even disappointed. your most finesse guy has to have a level of toughness to play in certain areas at certain times in the game. The risks are too great, personally and professionally to both Kassian and Tkachuk — never mind the fact that the two teams are so close in “Toughness is a wide-ranging thing, as you say. It’s fighting. It’s finishing the standings and the positioning so tight for a playoff spot in the Pacific body checks. For the skill guy, it’s playing inside the dots. If you want to Division that it makes little sense for anyone to use the occasion to play outside the dots, you don’t need to be tough. But if you want to extract their own personal pound of flesh. score goals — and especially as the year moves along and it gets closer to the playoffs — you have to go inside to get them. That takes a level of Even so, the renewal of the Battle of Alberta hostilities did spur an toughness — physical toughness and mental toughness. Teams, come important, interesting conversation around the league — and on social playoff time, have to go into the hard areas of the ice if they want to win.” media — about the need and value of toughness in the 2019-20 NHL.

On the day the question was posed to Clark, toughness — and what it “The one thing that hasn’t changed, and won’t change, is — you can’t win means to be genuinely tough — was a major talking point around the without courage,” said Ray Ferraro, an 18-year NHL vet, who now does NHL. The previous day, the Edmonton Oilers’ Zack Kassian had been colour commentary for TSN. “Toughness nowadays for me is only about doing a lot of the talking. a few areas on the ice. It’s a loose puck, or a puck battle three-to-five feet from the boards, or up against the wall. Because you’re boxed in — and In the aftermath of a two-game suspension he received for rag-dolling sometimes, you’ve got to fight your way out of there. Flames forward Matthew Tkachuk to the ice in a Jan. 11 renewal of the Battle of Alberta, Kassian said he finally understood — after speaking to “The front of each net – although it’s nowhere like when I was playing. George Parros, head of the NHL Player Safety Department — what Front-of-the-net was legalized assault back then. But because the exactly was (and wasn’t) allowed in the modern NHL, where fighting is on quarters are still so tight, you have to be tough and willing. When I think the decline and the era of predatory hitting was supposedly over. of this, it’s not even so much toughness as it is about a willingness to go in the tough areas. You know you’re going to get crosschecked, or If Kassian was confused about the limits — and where the league was punched in the face, or an elbow in the nose — all those things that currently drawing the line — it’s reasonable to think others were as well. happen in really tight quarters — and if you don’t have enough guys Then Kassian took the discussion a step forward and said he was looking willing to go there and do that, you can’t beat a team like St. Louis. forward to testing the acceptable body-checking limits the next time he faced Tkachuk. “Now, in the regular season, it matters less because the games are of a different style.” Social media took over from there. To Ferraro’s point, back in the spring, when he was doing his post- Some called Kassian a dinosaur, noting that his attitude towards fighting mortem on their Western Conference final loss to the St. Louis Blues, — in an era of CTE and greater concussion awareness — was so Peter DeBoer, then the San Jose Sharks’ coach, talked about how, in the outdated as to be practically pre-historic. end, two of the most physical teams in the NHL — the Blues and the Others took the opposite side and excoriated Tkachuk for not manning Boston Bruins — ended up playing for the 2019 Stanley Cup up when he had the chance to drop the gloves with the big Oilers championship. forward. Their rationale: If Tkachuk had accepted Kassian’s invitation to DeBoer’s point was that you could talk all you want about how smaller, fight on the spot, then the controversy would have died a quick death — skilled players had an important role in the modern NHL, but if the instead of lingering like a cloud over the team for the next handful of ultimate goal is winning the ultimate prize, then you need a team that games. supplements its skill with size and physicality. The starkness of the divide also illustrates the essential dilemma the NHL Instructively, just about everyone interviewed for this story independently faces when marketing the game. brought up a few of the same essential points: Professional hockey was, is and likely will always remain a body-contact Toughness matters more in the playoffs than in the regular season, sport. because in the playoffs, the officiating standard tends to slacken. The The printed version of the NHL’s 2019-20 rule book, which is 222 pages presence of the St. Louis Blues in the winner’s circle last year and the long, gives a detailed breakdown of how the sport is regulated. Given Washington Capitals the year before reinforced a message that’s how complicated some of the rule definitions are, it’s no surprise that currently resonating in front offices around the NHL: That when it comes to building a championship contender, you might get away with one style “To me, , is the toughest player in the National Hockey of team (small and skilled) in the regular season, but you need a hard, League when it comes to the puck — and what he does with it along the heavy physical presence to win in the postseason. boards,” said May. “He’s like a fullback, trying to go over the goal line, in the way he tries to get to the net. When I think of toughness, it’s ‘nose Ferraro added a third component to the equation: The increasingly and knees over the puck, battling hard in front of the net, blocking shots, underrated value of experience. and just going to middle areas.’ It’s not about dropping your gloves “I’m still waiting for the first small, young team to win,” said Ferraro, who anymore, or about getting 20 hits. It is about protecting the puck and played 1,258 games for Hartford, the Rangers, the Islanders, Atlanta, St. going to the high-speed areas and being ready to take a hit, coming Louis and Los Angeles, while scoring 898 points and accumulating 1,288 around the net, below the goal line, having to play tough. penalty minutes. “The first team people point to is Chicago and I say: “So, the game has absolutely changed so much. I don’t know if it’s the Look at how big about eight of those guys were. They were monsters. same with other guys who fought on a regular basis, but I know with me, When people think of Chicago, they think of first, but the you’d be around 30 fights a season. Now, most teams don’t get to 30 first time, they had Andrew Ladd and Dustin Byfuglien and Troy Brouwer fights in a season. It’s not part of being tough anymore.” and Brent Seabrook and Marian Hossa (and Adam Burish and Colin Fraser and Ben Eager). When McGill played, in a 13-year span between 1981 to 1994, games such as the one that Calgary and Edmonton played back in the second “It’s really going to be interesting to see, as the league has skewed week of January were more commonplace. smaller, the last couple of teams that have won have these big people that clog up the ice. What will be the requisite toughness that a smaller “Everyone talked about the emotion in that game, and people getting guy will need? Because, for example, Patrick Kane is not a very big guy. pissed off and mad at each other,” said McGill, “and it was because there But he scores a lot of goals going through traffic — and going east-to- are so many games you see today and it’s nothing like that. It can be a 6- west in the zone; and that takes courage. And so that’s a form of 0 game and guys aren’t even upset about it anymore. That’s amazing to toughness.” me. The emotional attachment is missing.

Instructively, the Flames-Oilers rematch comes in the same week that “It seems everybody’s buddies these days: ‘You don’t hit me and I won’t both are playing home games against St. Louis. If ever the point about hit you.’ But again, when the puck drops for the playoffs, it’s like, OK, the playoff toughness needed to be reinforced, each team will get an up- real season is starting now. Who is going to be willing to put their balls on close-and-personal-look at Exhibit A. the line? Who’s going to be willing to have somebody slap you? Because that can be the difference between winning the Stanley Cup and not.” “In the regular season, a lot of nights, there is no hitting, so you see a lot of skill plays go on,” said former NHLer Bob McGill, who played 13 Clark is from and friends with a number of players and seasons for six different NHL teams and accumulated 1,766 penalty broadcasters in the Blues’ organization, all of whom hail from the same minutes in 705 NHL games and now works as a commentator in Toronto. province, where toughness is genuinely valued. “Then playoffs come, and you need to your big-boy pants on, because it gets tough. When you see the Capitals play, and Tom Wilson is out there But like May, Clark also sees a level of toughness in many of the running around – there are guys that need to change their pants between league’s elite stars such as Washington’s Alex Ovechkin and Edmonton’s periods when he’s doing his stuff. Leon Draisaitl — big men who take a lot of punishment in order to make plays. “When it comes to crunch time, the teams that have that edge physically seem to be the ones that come to the forefront — and that goes a long Clark believes there’s been an evolution in Ovechkin’s game that has way when trying to win a championship.” contributed to his longevity and can be traced back to ’s debut in the league in 1990. Toronto Maple Leafs forward Jason Spezza, 36, who broke into the NHL with the Ottawa Senators in the 2002-03 season, says that while the Sundin and Clark were once traded for each other and then eventually definition of toughness has changed over the arc of his career, it still became teammates in Toronto for a short period of time. matters. “Remember how, when Ovechkin started, he used to throw a lot of body “It’s not fighting tough anymore,” said Spezza. “I remember, my first few checks?” asked Clark. “Then he figured out, ‘My body’s not going to last years, I wanted to impress the group by showing that I could fight a little if I keep playing like that.’ bit too. So, I fought once a year for a few years just to try and fit in. “I wasn’t smart enough to figure that out myself. So, he backs away from “That’s not part of the game anymore. But you have to be mentally tough that for the longevity of his career. But he’s also a guy that’s 6-4 and 240 to handle the ups and downs of the season. You have to be physically — you don’t realize how big he is. He’s a big, strong guy who’s evolved tough to be able to get yourself in the right areas to score goals and his game to know when and when not to (hit). And he’s got a presence make plays. You have to hang onto pucks. You have to be able to take a on the ice. Maybe he doesn’t throw it anymore, but if a guy goes to play hit. You can’t be shy on the forecheck. As a D-man, you can’t be shy him, you can feel it. The guy that goes to hit Ovechkin knows he’s trying getting into the zone. to hit a pretty solid guy. I picked up one of his sticks once and the stiffness of the stick he uses, I couldn’t lean on that every single game. “So, it’s a little different — but you still have to be tough to play the That’s how much strength he has. game.” “It’s the same with Draisaitl. I said that to our guys when the Oilers were Former NHLer Alan May, who played 393 NHL games over eight coming through here. I said, ‘I didn’t realize he was that big.’ On TV, you seasons for six different clubs — Boston, Edmonton, Washington, Dallas think, ‘OK, tall, skinny guy.’ And then you see him, and you say, ‘No, that and Calgary — and accumulated 1,348 penalty minutes to go along with guy’s big.’ And for him, it isn’t about throwing his weight around. But 31 goals and 76 points (and now does commentary on Washington when someone goes to try and check him and nothing happens, it’s Capitals broadcasts) believes “the game has evolved and so has the way because that guy bounced off him. toughness is perceived by coaches and players. “That changed in my era in the late eighties and nineties when Mats “Back when we all played in the seventies, eighties and nineties – and Sundin came over. The skill guys used to all be about 180 and played a maybe all the way through hockey — it was about hitting, taking hits, finesse game. All of a sudden now, here’s Sundin — 6-3 and 230 pounds fighting, sticking up for your teammates, paying back on behalf of a — so the physical guy can’t brush away the skilled guy as much teammate. But that stuff’s kind of gone by the wayside. There’s a handful anymore. They say, ‘You can hit me, but you’re just going to bounce off.’ of people that still fight in the National Hockey League on a regular basis, That’s how the game really changed. The skilled guys got as big as the but you go into most games, you don’t have to worry about that anymore. tougher guys. They didn’t play tough, but you couldn’t affect them, So, the game’s easier to play in that regard — that you don’t have to because they were as strong as you were.” waste any thought on it now.” As a commentator based in Washington, May knows Wilson’s game But May, who played in the NHL from 1987 to 1995 and also had a long better than most — and says Wilson’s evolution as a player was critical minor-league career, sees true toughness in areas where others may to the Capitals’ run to the Stanley Cup championship. not. “I know Twitter hates Tom Wilson, but there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that every single team in the National Hockey League covets him,” said May. “Every single one. When he came into the league, I thought he good, hard hit.’ Because you are still allowed to hit, as long as it’s mishandled at first. He accepted what he had to do and did what was shoulder first. probably drilled through his head throughout junior – having to drop the gloves, which I thought was unfair for a 19- and 20-year-old kid to have “If you just finish your checks now … but the kids coming up don’t do to do. that. We’re called old, archaic guys if we say, ‘In the old days, it was this way. It was that way.’ No. It’s just a change in philosophy. Not right or “But now I watch how he’s evolved in the game. Now he doesn’t have to wrong. Just different.” waste time visualizing that, or thinking about that anymore. I saw him the last two seasons, but especially last season, beat players with speed The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 moves; and beat players with finesse, stick moves, where he’d go in-and- out and do a toe-drag around them. That’s because he doesn’t have to worry about that other stuff anymore. He’s built his game by thinking about what is required to be an effective hockey player.

“With the way he plays, he has so many players now that will not go into the corners with him to get a loose puck. In the past, he probably would have finished that player. Now he just goes in and takes the puck.”

Both May and Ferraro also say they’ve seen an evolution in Kassian’s game.

“You ask any team,” said Ferraro. “If you can get this version of Zack Kassian on your team, would you like to have him? And the answer is yes, 31 times. What I mean is, the new-and-improved Kassian. The one that’s been down the road, after the potholes that he’s had. He seems to be a new person. I remember the day he got acquired by Vancouver, and I was on TradeCenter, and they asked: What are they getting? All I could remember was him in junior and so I said: ‘They’re getting a rumbling bull.’ And then he lost his way for a while. But right now, in this game, he’s different. He can make a play with a great player, which he’s playing with. Or if they happen to get a forward that would be the perfect winger to play with McDavid, and Kassian had to drop down to another line, he can play that style too. Kassian’s a good player, and Edmonton’s going to get him signed at a decent dollar — and I don’t know a single team that wouldn’t be interested in that.”

“A lot of people will say: Kassian gets to play with McDavid and Draisaitl now and again,” said May. “Well, you know what? He’s earned that. Because other players have gotten that chance and haven’t done what he’s done with that chance. He’s a high-energy player every game — just like Matthew Tkachuk is. They’ve got different ways of doing things. But Matthew Tkachuk is fully involved in every game – and to me, that’s toughness. I think a guy like Filip Forsberg is like that. He’s a guy that wants the puck and steals it, and throws big hits and absorbs big hits, and goes to the high-traffic areas. He’s fully involved in every game. To me, a Drew Doughty, same thing. Those are tough hockey players in today’s game.”

Ferraro says that you find toughness in unexpected players and cites a player such as Niklas Hjalmarsson — tall and rail thin — as an example. Hjalmarsson won three Stanley Cups with Chicago; was one of the rare players targeted with an offer sheet; and now plays for the Arizona Coyotes. According to Ferraro, Hjalmarsson’s mix of grit and compete is an illustration of true toughness, someone willing to do whatever it took to help a team win.

But Ferraro also noted that as you get older, it becomes more difficult to stay physically engaged.

“Some of your willingness to go through the slop dissipates,” said Ferraro. “Because when you’re 20, you’ve never rehabbed before in most cases. When you’ve done it four times and you’re 34, holy crap man, this is hard. All you’re doing is struggling to stay the same. Everybody else is getting better. You’re just trying to get back to where you were.”

Injuries limited Clark to only 793 regular-season games over a 15-year career that included stops with Toronto, Quebec, New York Islanders, Tampa Bay, Detroit and Chicago. In that span, he accumulated 564 points and 1,690 penalty minutes. Also worth pointing out: How effective he was in his 95 playoff games – 37 goals, 69 points, 201 penalty minutes. Clark’s final season came in 1999-00.

How would Clark feel if he could play in today’s game?

“It’d be fun to play now,” said Clark. “Any era. Hockey’s great. But today? How many power forwards are they looking for? Because it changes everything. That guy in Washington — Tom Wilson — he might be their most valuable guy because the whole team plays differently when he’s in the lineup. He adds a dimension that isn’t in the game anymore. He changes the whole game. And it’s just about hard body-checking. People will say, ‘Well, that’s a penalty.’ And I’m saying, ‘No, no. That’s just a 1173599 Websites Previous ranking: No. 8 Stutzle has been incredibly impressive for a U18 player versus men. He’s

been a go-to player for Mannheim in the top German league, a highly The Athletic / Pronman: Ranking the 2020 NHL Draft top prospects at unusual role for any player his age in a top pro league. Stutzle is a midseason complete forward. He has a lot of skill and can make tough plays, and he is a very good skater. His ability to play high-end skill plays at quick speeds has let him be so successful as a pro. Stutzle is officially listed as a winger, but I would wager whichever team drafts him announces By Corey Pronman Jan 29, 2020 shortly afterward they view him as a center as a majority (but not all) of NHL scouts I’ve talked to think that he’s an NHL center due to his speed, skill and ability to play off the puck. This is my midseason report on the 2020 NHL Draft, looking at what I view as the top tier of prospects eligible to be selected in June based on Marco Rossi, C, Ottawa-OHL my viewings of the players and discussions with scouts. Sept. 23, 2001 | 5-foot-9 | 179 pounds It’s a very forward heavy draft, and very light on high-end defensemen. I Previous ranking: No. 9 think more defensemen will go in this range than I personally have listed, but I don’t see many that get me excited. The draft looks standard to me Rossi has dominated the OHL this season, averaging more than two right now, although it is still January and I won’t feel comfortable points per game. Rossi is an exciting player due to his skill and IQ. He describing the draft’s depth until late into the spring. There are two can make highly skilled plays seem routine and is a great passer. Rossi’s cornerstone pieces at the top in Alexis Lafreniere and Quinton Byfield – skating is very good. He’s not the quickest small player you’ll ever see, which should be No. 1 will be a debate for me probably through the finish but he has a powerful stride and will be able to pressure NHL defenders of the season. The most interesting wrinkle in this class is where elite with speed. While Rossi is undersized, he’s a very competitive player. He goaltender prospect Yaroslav Askarov will ultimately end up. attacks the net without fear, and Ottawa uses him in tough defensive situations. Other than his size it’s very hard to find a flaw in his game, The tiers breakdown as follows: with the rest of his toolkit featuring standout attributes. I think Rossi can Special NHL prospect: Projects as one of the very best players in the be a legit No. 1 center in the NHL. league. Yaroslav Askarov, G, SKA-VHL Elite NHL prospect: Projects as an impact player, someone who is top June 16, 2002 | 6-foot-3 | 176 pounds 10-15 percent in the NHL at his position. Previous ranking: No. 5 High-end NHL prospect: Projects as a first-line forward, a top-pair defenseman or a top 10 starting goaltender. Askarov is a special goalie prospect. He’s shown for years he can be a difference-maker at the highest levels. From defeating arguably the most Very good NHL prospect: Projects as a top-six forward, top-four talented USNTDP team as an underage, to stealing gold from a loaded defenseman or starting goaltender in the NHL. Canadian Hlinka team, to being great as a 17-year-old versus men and Special NHL Prospect even winning a game for SKA, he has shown he is a different type of goalie. Yes, he had a terrible world juniors. He let in soft goals I’ve never Alexis Lafrenière, LW, Rimouski-QMJHL seen him let in before. He also is a goalie with a very long track record of success, a ton of athleticism, elite hockey sense, great puck tracking Oct. 11, 2001 | 6-foot-1 | 192 pounds ability, and a ton of confidence and aggressiveness in net. I think he will Previous ranking: No. 1 become a top goaltender in the NHL.

Lafrenière has passed nearly every test thrown at him. He’s dominated High-End NHL Prospect the QMJHL for years. He was the MVP of the world juniors and has been Alexander Holtz, RW, Djurgarden-SHL great at other international events over the years. He has off days where he’ll put up 2-3 points in the Q. He’s a player with elite skill and elite Jan. 23, 2002 | six-foot | 183 pounds offensive IQ. He can dazzle on any given shift with his playmaking and ability to beat players 1-on-1. Lafrenière is also a highly competitive Previous ranking: No. 3 player who plays well in the hard areas of the ice, is solid defensively and Holtz has scored goals wherever he’s gone, be it at the junior, plays physical. His skating isn’t as elite as the rest of his tools, but he has international or now SHL level where he’s scoring as much as any U18 shown enough progress in that area to where he has no noticeable player has. Holtz has a truly elite shot but can do so much more than just weakness in his game now. He’s a projected star-caliber forward in the rip it. His hands are elite, and he can embarrass defenders with his puck NHL and a cornerstone piece for the team that drafts him. skills. He’s a very good passer. His vision isn’t as good as his scoring Special/Elite Bubble ability, but he can make tough plays at the pro level and doesn’t have tunnel vision. He can lean on his shot a bit too much though from the Quinton Byfield, C, Sudbury-OHL perimeter. Holtz’s skating is above-average as well, but it isn’t his selling point. I like how many elements his game has, I like that he’s already Aug. 19, 2002 | 6-foot-4 | 214 pounds shown he can be an effective middle-six forward versus men in the SHL Previous ranking: No. 2 and, of course, I love how much he scores.

Byfield has been as good as you could have hoped for as a 17-year-old Lucas Raymond, LW, Frolunda-SHL in the OHL. He has the best pure toolkit in the draft. He’s 6-foot-4, he’s a March 28, 2002 | 5-foot-11 | 165 pounds very good skater and his hands are right up there with the best in the draft. He can break a shift open with his ability to power past or dangle Previous ranking: No. 4 through defenders. I’ve questioned Byfield’s playmaking in the past, but this season he’s shown a high level of vision. He has the ability to use his Raymond’s deployment hasn’t been that significant at the SHL this level power and skill both to create for himself and to make difficult plays to set this season, but he plays on a very good team so I don’t hold it against up his teammates. When the pace increased at the higher levels at the him. When Raymond does get ice time at the junior level, as he’s shown international stage, he faded a bit, but I do think he is very much in the over the years, he’s dynamic. With the puck he’s the most dangerous first overall conversation because he has the potential to become an player in the draft, with a combination of skill, vision and overall IQ that impact No. 1 center in the NHL. nobody else can match from this group. He will be a true PP1 quarterback in the NHL because of the unique plays he can make. Elite/High-End Bubble Raymond isn’t the biggest guy, but he competes well. While he’s more of a passer, he does have a very good shot when he looks to shoot. My one Tim Stutzle, LW, Mannheim-DEL concern from getting him to the top tier as an NHL prospect is his Jan. 15, 2002 | six-foot | 165 pounds average footspeed, particularly as a 5-foot-11 forward. Jamie Drysdale, D, Erie-OHL Seth Jarvis, C, Portland-WHL

April 8, 2002 | 5-foot-11 | 165 pounds Feb. 1, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 172 pounds

Previous ranking: No. 7 Previous ranking: In consideration

The 2020 draft isn’t the deepest when it comes to defensemen, but Jarvis has been a leading scorer in the WHL this season and one of the Drysdale has distinguished himself as the guy if you want a defenseman major reasons Portland is a top team. Jarvis is a highly skilled and with a top pick. Drysdale has been a top defenseman in the OHL and intelligent player who can create offense in bunches. He’s a good skater made Canada’s U20 team as a 17-year-old. He’s one of the best skaters as well who creates on the move and has a style of game that projects to in the draft. His edge work is elite and he’ll have no issues with the speed the pro level. Jarvis isn’t the biggest forward, but he is a very hard of the NHL. Drysdale is an undersized defenseman but defends well due working player who can play in the middle third of the ice and in the to his skating and IQ. Offensively he’s very good, but not flashy. He’s not defensive zone. There’s nothing about his game that’s truly special and going to have a Cale Makar or Quinn Hughes type of rush, but he’s a distinguishes him from other players, but he does a lot very well and his very smart puck-mover who can create with his speed and vision. production is hard to ignore.

Cole Perfetti, LW, Saginaw-OHL Jeremie Poirier, D, Saint John-QMJHL

Jan. 1, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 185 pounds June 2, 2002 | six-foot | 192 pounds

Previous ranking: No. 6 Previous ranking: No. 15

Perfetti has been a top player in the OHL this season, following up a Poirier has been fantastic offensively this season, generating a ton of Hlinka Gretzky tournament he dominated. Inside the offensive zone he shots and points in the Q, especially for a 17-year-old defenseman. He’s can create so much havoc due to his skill and especially his vision. He’s got a ton of skill, as much as any defensemen in the draft and close to one of the best passers in the draft. While he is a gifted goal-scorer, his the level of some of the top forwards in the class. Off the rush he’s very playmaking is what stands out as a top NHL attribute. Perfetti is a bit of a dangerous. While he makes good plays and skates well, his puck skills divisive player in NHL circles, though. Some NHL scouts love him due to and his shot make him stand out. Poirier is a divisive player among NHL his brain, skill and scoring ability; others wonder if it will translate into a scouts, though, due to his very so-so defensive play. You’re not drafting top-line NHL forward due to his size and just fine skating ability. I think he him to be your D-zone faceoff guy and top penalty killer. The team could be that because the puck game is that good even without explosive picking him will be doing so because they want someone dynamic on speed. their blue line.

High-End/Very Good Bubble Hendrix Lapierre, C, Chicoutimi-QMJHL

Connor Zary, C, Kamloops-WHL Feb. 9, 2002 | six-foot | 172 pounds

Sept. 25, 2001 | six-foot | 174 pounds Previous ranking: No. 11

Previous ranking: No. 19 Lapierre is an extremely difficult player to slot right now. He was a top player at 16. Was a top player at the Hlinka Gretzky. Then the season Kamloops is a top team in the WHL this season and Zary is a major started and he was good, not great, with only two goals on the season reason why. He’s a player with a ton of skill who has the quick hands to when healthy. He’s a highly skilled and intelligent two-way player, but his dazzle and create a highlight reel moment. He can create plays and game was lacking speed. To top it off, he has significant health issues, finish them very well. It’s not just the skill, but how hard he plays. He with three concussions diagnosed in a 10-month span. As of now, all he’s attacks the net, and he’s a great two-way center. The major knock on been able to do is practice without contact, and he will see a specialist in Zary is his skating. Some scouts think it’ll be pro average; some think a few weeks to be evaluated, according to the team. If you argued he’s a below-average. I lean to the former camp. It’s not great, but I think the top 10 pick, I wouldn’t fault you; if you said too much risk for the first, I stride is good enough that he’ll be able to skate with NHLers well enough wouldn’t fault you either. to do the other things he is great at. Anton Lundell, C, HIFK- Dawson Mercer, C, Chicoutimi-QMJHL Oct. 3, 2001 | 6-foot-1 | 183 pounds Oct. 27, 2001 | six-foot | 172 pounds Previous ranking: No. 13 Previous ranking: No. 18 I’ve watched Lundell closely for three years – seeing him live at least 20 Mercer followed up an impressive 17-year-old season with a better 18- times and many more on video – and I still have no idea what to make of year-old one, as a top player in the QMJHL and just making Canada’s him. When I watch him play nothing about his game stands out. I think U20 team. Mercer brings a lot of elements to the table. He’s got a lot of his skating is average and his skill is just above-average. But it’s hard to skill. It’s not elite skill, but he can make defenders look silly. He’s a very deny how much he scores everywhere he goes, especially versus men in smart player who moves the puck well inside the zone and has offensive Liiga the last two seasons, and how much coaches seem to trust him. I creativity. Mercer can also score from a distance if given space. He’s a like his hockey sense a lot and think he competes very well. The question competitive two-way center who can be effective in a lot of situations. His among NHL scouts is whether he’s a second- or third-line center in the main drawback is his average feet. It will be interesting to see how well league. I lean to second right now because of the track record. he does in the second half now that he was traded to a top team in Chicoutimi. , C, Wisconsin-Big 10

Very Good NHL Prospect Sept. 23, 2001 | 6-foot-1 | 192 pounds

Jacob Perreault, RW, Sarnia-OHL Previous ranking: No. 10

April 15, 2002 | 5-foot-11 | 198 pounds Holloway’s freshman season has gone just OK. I think he’s played a bit better than his stat line suggests, but he hasn’t been a top offensive Previous ranking: Not ranked player at the college level after being a top player at the AJHL level. Perreault scored 30 goals as a 16-year-old in the OHL and his full Holloway is a very good skater who has a lot of energy to his game. He’s season pace this season is 44. He has one of if not the best shot in this not the strongest player yet, but he engages in physical play. His draft. He can be so dangerous on a power play due to his shot, but also offensive upside is the main point of debate surrounding him when his ability to hit the seams as a passer and create with his skill. Inside the talking to NHL scouts. I like his stick skills and brain. I would not call his offensive zone there are no questions about what he can do. Scouts puck game top-end or a true top playmaker at the NHL level; however, I have questions on his foot speed and whether he will provide enough off do think he can make enough plays at the higher levels to play in a the puck to continue to score at the higher levels. I don’t see him as a top team’s top six and second power play. penalty kill guy by any means, but I think there’s enough compete in his Jack Quinn, C, Ottawa-OHL game to maximize his scoring potential. Sept. 19, 2001 | six-foot | 176 pounds Previous ranking: Not ranked Everything up to this point I feel has been relatively close to the industry in terms of NHL scouts’ opinions, but I know I’m out on a bit of a limb with Since the snow has started to come down, Quinn has been making it my placement of McClennon. He didn’t have a good Hlinka Gretzky, but melt. He’s been on a tear of late, leads the OHL in goals as of this writing every other time I’ve watched him the past two seasons I’ve liked him. I and is a major reason why the 67’s are a top team right now. Quinn can see a player with a high level of hockey sense who can make plays and certainly shoot it at a high level, but he’s also a player with a lot of skill score goals. McClennon is a small forward without elite speed, but I still and IQ. He can beat defenders with his hands, find teammates very well think he skates very well and often is the zone entry guy for his club and score from a distance giving his game a lot of dimensions. The main team. He competes well and kills penalties in the WHL. I like his tools, I reason for his sudden rise in prospect stock has been the continued like his track record the last few years and I think he’s going to be a very improvement in his skating to being arguably above-average when it good pro. He is out for the remainder of the regular season though due to used to be a weakness for him. Quinn is solid off the puck, plays the a broken collarbone. penalty kill for Ottawa and is a player who coaches and scouts universally praise for all the dimensions in his game. Before You Ask…

Justin Barron, D, Halifax-QMJHL Here are a few players I know I’m going to get asked about repeatedly, so I’m answering why they weren’t listed. This is not a continuation of the Nov. 15, 2001 | 6-foot-2 | 187 pounds ranking, nor is it a “just missed” list.

Previous ranking: No. 12 Kaiden Guhle, D, Prince Albert-WHL: Guhle is a very mobile defenseman Barron is a player who has been hyped for a few years, playing well for with size who punishes his opponents. I think he has some offense in his Canada and Halifax. He’s been a divisive player among scouts when game, but his puck game and puck movement keep him right on the healthy. He’s been up and down this season and missed a lot of time due outside looking in for the tier above. to a blood clot, which makes you concerned about his health. On the ice, Noel Gunler, RW, Lulea-SHL: This is the one I know I’m going to get Barron is a fantastic skater who can lead a rush, close a gap very well picked apart for. I’ve watched a lot of Gunler the past few years. I haven’t and projects to be able to handle the NHL speed easily. The question on seen him live in two years though since he’s been cut from a lot of the his game among scouts is whether he has enough skill and offensive IQ recent international teams. I like his hockey sense and shot a lot, and to move the puck at the higher levels. I think he does, with the respect he’s held his own on a good SHL team this season. I don’t think understanding that he may not be a top puck-mover on your blue line, but his skill is high-end though, his skating is average, and I think he’s a one- rather someone who is solid defensively and makes enough plays to take way player right now. I look forward to seeing him live at an upcoming even strength shifts in the top-four. event.

Braden Schneider, D, Brandon-WHL John-Jason Peterka, LW, Munchen-DEL: Peterka has held his own on Sept. 20, 2001 | 6-foot-2 | 209 pounds arguably the best pro team in Germany and was good for the German U20 team. I think he’s very skilled and creative offensively. He skates Previous ranking: In consideration well, but he’s undersized and his skating isn’t high-end enough for me to be in the top tier. I see the argument for him in the first on tools alone, but Schneider is not a very flashy or overly productive player, but there’s a lot it’s hard for me to do that based on a lack of a clear elite toolkit and little of positive attributes in his game. He’s a 6-foot-2 right-handed ice time this season. defenseman with good mobility. He moves the puck very well out of the defensive zone and has some creativity off the offensive blue line. He Jan Mysak, C, Hamilton-OHL: Mysak is a talented player. He has good defends well due to his feet, stick and physical play. It’s hard to find a speed, skill and can shoot the puck, although I don’t think any of those weakness in his skill set. He’s never been overly productive and I don’t elements are high-end. I really like his hockey IQ, and respect what he think he’s going to be a big-time offensive producer at the pro level. But did versus men in the first half and with the Czech U20 team. I’ve seen he could take a reliable shift on a second pair, kill penalties and plug onto some poor stretches from him in recent years, such as the Hlinka a second power play if needed. Gretzky, the U18 worlds and the U17 challenge, which made me question his projection. He’s playing junior hockey in the second half in Rodion Amirov, LW, Ufa-MHL Ontario, so I will continue to give him chances to prove me wrong. Oct. 2, 2001 | six-foot | 168 pounds Lukas Reichel, LW, Berlin-DEL: Reichel has been very good as a pro this Previous ranking: No. 14 season, being a legit scorer versus men in Germany. He has offensive tools, he can skate and he has a very good stick. I wouldn’t call him a Amirov has been a very intriguing toolkit. His hands are very quick, he’s dynamic offensive player though, more of a secondary guy at the NHL got good speed and he has a great shot. He’s not the biggest or level. He’s well-rounded and I think he’ll make it, but I don’t see him as a strongest winger, and I wouldn’t call his playmaking top tier either. He’s driver of offense. been good, not great when I’ve watched this season at the club and international levels. He was very impressive as an underage forward in Jake Sanderson, D, USNTDP-USHL: Most – but not all – scouts I know junior, so that’s still in the back of my mind as I try not to ding him too have Sanderson in the first, so I know I’m off the board here a bit, much for not being a great KHLer at age 18. But I’d like to see him really especially after his recent MVP performance at the All-American get it going at some point at some level. prospects game. I like the player, he does everything well with no clear weakness. He’s a great skater, plays hard, defends very well and has Thomas Bordeleau, C, USNTDP-USHL some skill; but his offensive ceiling and ability to make plays is a question mark for me. Jan. 3, 2002 | 5-foot-9 | 179 pounds William Wallinder, D, MODO-Allsvenskan: Wallinder was a very tough Previous ranking: Not ranked cut. I know some scouts have him solidly in their first-round, and I Bordeleau has impressed me whenever I’ve watched his USNTDP age wouldn’t fault a team for taking him on Day 1. He’s a 6-foot-4 group the past two seasons. He is so dangerous inside the offensive defenseman with solid mobility who can shut down rushes and moves zone because of his very high skill level. While he can dangle most the puck well. He’s played versus men this season and has looked defenders, he also can hit the seams quite well to find teammates and decent. I have mild questions on the offensive upside and skill level, and score from mid-distance, making him a true power play threat. Bordeleau at the international level I haven’t loved him. is a fine skater. He lacks the explosive gear you’d like in a 5-foot-9 The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 forward, but I’d still grade his skating as a tick above-average. I like the consistency in his game and the toolkit even if the size and skating aren’t ideal.

Connor McClennon, RW, Winnipeg-WHL

June 25, 2002 | 5-foot-8 | 157 pounds

Previous ranking: Not ranked 1173600 Websites Blackhawks blueliner Manson. They tangled when Stevens was in Washington, in a controversial fight that resulted in multiple suspensions for biting and eye-gouging. A year later, Stevens wound up playing for the Hawks’ top rival. It wasn’t hard to see where this was headed, and The Athletic / Down Goes Brown: What the NHL’s history of player during a brawl that would be remembered as The St. Patrick’s Day rivalries tells us about how Tkachuk vs. Kassian could end Massacre, it got there.

One of the most memorable fights of the ’90s didn’t exactly smooth over the bad blood, but it served as a climax to the rivalry. And at least nobody By Sean McIndoe Jan 29, 2020 got bitten or gouged.

This can end: With one guy’s early retirement Tonight’s NHL schedule features one of the most anticipated matchups What happens: The rivalry starts off like any other, and maybe one guy of the season so far, as the Oilers host the Flames. It’s an important even emerges as the clear fan favorite. He takes a few lumps along the game, one that could help decide an incredibly close Pacific Division way, which is fine, because it’s just building up to the inevitable satisfying race. But of course, that’s not why everyone is focused on it. finale where the heel gets his comeuppance. But that never happens, No, for that we can thank Matthew Tkachuk and Zack Kassian. This will because one guy walks away before we get there. be their first meeting since the Jan. 11 game in Calgary that featured Why it’s good: It isn’t, at least for anybody other than the other guy who several controversial hits, a one-sided fight, and more than a few won’t have to answer the bell anymore. postgame soundbites. It also earned Kassian a suspension, and led the hockey world to wonder: What comes next? Why it’s not: You never want to see anybody’s career end early, especially if it’s the result of a cheap shot or questionable hit. Missing out We didn’t have to wait long to find out, because the Oilers and Flames on any kind of resolution to a feud just makes it worse. play twice this week, with tonight’s game followed by a rematch in Calgary on Saturday. Kassian hasn’t exactly been shy about suggesting Historical example: There may not have been a more intense rivalry in that he’ll be looking for further payback. Tkachuk’s options are a little the early ’90s than Cam Neely and Ulf Samuelsson. That one dated back more complicated, but it’s fair to say that all eyes will be on both players to Samuelsson’s Hartford days and really ramped up once he was in as we wait to see what – if anything – happens when they cross paths. Pittsburgh. Their knee-on-knee collision in the 1991 playoffs is the moment everyone remembers, although it was actually a different (and So that will be the next chapter in the story. But at the risk of skipping cleaner) hit that caused the leg problems that forced Neely to miss most ahead, how will it end? This is hardly the first time that two players have of the next two seasons, and his early retirement was due to hip developed some bad blood, so we have plenty of examples of how this problems that weren’t related to either play, even though most fans might go. So today, let’s dig back into the archives and try to figure out blame Samuelsson anyway. Either way, injuries snuffed out not only a what the end game might look like here. Hall of Fame career, but a great rivalry. This can end: With a decisive moment This can end: With a verbal KO What happens: After months or even years of a back-and-forth, give-and- What happens: Something happens on the ice, followed by one of the take sort of rivalry, something finally happens that tilts the scale. Maybe protagonists engaging in a little bit of trash talk. That turns out to be a it’s a crushing hit or some sort of altercation, or maybe one guy just goes bad idea, as the other guy returns fire with the verbal equivalent of a out there and wins the big game for his team by actually playing hockey. Mortal Kombat finishing move. But either way, everyone remembers the moment, and everyone remembers who won. Why it’s good: You’ll be quoting the line for years. And nobody even has to get hurt. Well, unless you count somebody’s pride getting murdered. Why it’s good: This is the exclamation point on the story, and while it may not end the rivalry completely, it’s pretty definitive. It happens, we all see Why it’s not: It’s always weirdly disorienting to hear an NHL player say it, and then everyone moves on. something interesting.

Why it’s not: Often, “decisive” can mean that somebody gets hurt. Historical example: Even all these years later, I can’t watch this clip without thinking “No Jeremy, don’t do it!” Historical example: Scott Stevens vs. Eric Lindros. They were natural rivals from the moment Lindros arrived in the league, two big physical This can end: Very badly alpha dogs staking out their territory as franchise players and captains of teams in the same division. They fought in Lindros’ rookie year, traded What happens: We have to cover this one, since it’s the elephant in the big hits, always seemed to be in each other’s faces, and competed for room. Every now and then, a rivalry heats up, and we all have some fun the title of the league’s most-feared physical presence. with cheering it along, just like we’re doing with Tkachuk and Kassian right now. Then things escalate, somebody goes way over the line, and We all know how it ended. something awful happens. Suspensions follow, and sometimes the law gets involved. And the rest of us are left wondering why this ever seemed That was pretty much it for the rivalry. And in some sense, that was also fun in the first place. it for Lindros as an elite NHL star. The devastating hit looks very different through today’s eyes than it did at the time. But whether you see it as a Why it’s good: It really, really isn’t. clean hit or a predatory headshot – or maybe, based on the rules of the day, both at the same time – it became the rivalry’s definitive moment. Why it’s not: In addition to the obvious impact on the players involved, And its last. these sorts of incidents tend to become black eyes for the entire sport.

This can end: With a signature fight Historical example: Unfortunately, there have been more than a few. The most famous is probably the Steve Moore/Markus Naslund rivalry that What happens: Enough is enough. Two guys who hate each other and escalated into Todd Bertuzzi’s sucker punch. We could also mention who’ve spent a chunk of their careers exchanging shots on and off the Marty McSorley and Donald Brashear, or Dale Hunter and Pierre ice decide to settle things the old-fashioned way. They drop the gloves, Turgeon. Going back even further, you had Louis Sleigher on Jean everyone else clears out, and may the best man win. Hamel and multiple incidents in the 1970s.

Why it’s good: Even if you hate fighting, there’s a certain old-school You can call them outliers or exceptions, and they are. But that’s the appeal to seeing two rivals go this route. It’s almost honorable. point – sometimes stuff like this goes too far, and it only takes a second or two of bad judgment for a rivalry to turn tragic. Why it’s not: Depending on how you view fighting, two professional athletes settling a score with bare-knuckles fisticuffs can seem silly, if not This can end: With mutual respect, eventually barbaric. There’s the risk of injury. And half the time, the guy who loses will insist on a rematch, so nothing really gets settled at all. What happens: The rivalry lasts for years, maybe even decades. But in the end, the two guys end up forging a mutual respect, and maybe even Historical example: Scott Stevens vs. Dave Manson. Before he was a friendship. battling Lindros in the Patrick Division, Stevens had an epic rivalry with Why it’s good: In a certain sense, this is the best possible outcome. It Why it’s not: Honestly, it’s pretty great when this happens. generally means that nothing ever got too crazy, and nobody ever crossed any lines that couldn’t be forgiven. Fans tend to love this sort of Historical example: Let’s end with a tip of the cap to what may be the ending, since it feeds into the romantic idea of these guys being noble G.O.A.T. of NHL player rivalries. warriors who see this stuff as all being part of an honest day’s work. Both have been out of the league for years, but the war of words has Why it’s not: I’m not sure there’s really any reason not to appreciate this continued. Brodeur ripped Avery for his appearance on Dancing With sort of ending, although it may lead you to experience a nagging sense of The Stars, while Avery ripped Brodeur over … well, pretty much doubt over how much of the bad blood may have been overhyped in the everything. first place. It’s the feud that won’t end, and probably never will. If Tkachuk and Historical example: Given enough time, most NHL rivalries seem to end Kassian want to take a run at the crown, the bar has been set high. Well, up here, or at least somewhere in the ballpark. Hockey players are just low. wired this way; eventually, you can sit down with a rival and have a laugh The Athletic LOADED: 01.30.2020 over a beer or several. Not everyone goes as far as working together on a documentary like Tie Domi and Rob Ray recently did, but apparently 13 fights will forge a bond.

This can end: With the two guys becoming teammates

What happens: This is always a little awkward. Two guys can’t stand each other and spend a good chunk of their career throwing dirty looks and the occasional haymakers. Then one day, thanks to a trade or a signing, they’re teammates. Um, no hard feelings, right?

Why it’s good: Often, this is really just a more extreme version of the Mutual Respect ending. And it’s undeniably neat to see two guys who used to hate each other, and maybe still do, suddenly standing side-by- side.

Why it’s not: It can be confusing for fans who now have to root for somebody they thought they were supposed to despise.

Historical example: There have been a few, including Bob Probert and Troy Crowder putting their feud for the NHL’s heavyweight title on hold, or Chris Nilan joining the Bruins in 1990. But let’s go with Darcy Tucker and Michael Peca, who had one of the nastiest player rivalries of the late ’90s and early 2000s. They clearly hated each other, and it seemed like we’d seen the Decisive Moment ending when Tucker went low and blew out Peca’s leg in the 2001 playoffs. But a few years later, Peca signed with the Maple Leafs. Could the two rivals coexist? As it turns out, yeah, they got along fine. They became friends, sat together in the dressing room, and even sent their kids to the same school. Sorry about the shredded knee ligaments, pal.

This can end: With an escalation to a full team vs. team feud

What happens: It starts with one guy on each team. But then somebody else gets involved, and that brings in one more, and pretty soon everybody’s in the mix. Depending on how crazy it gets, you might even forget which two players started the whole thing in the first place.

Why it’s good: Do you like line brawls? Because you’re going to get a lot of line brawls.

Why it’s not: Do you not like line brawls? Because you’re going to get a lot of line brawls.

Historical example: There are plenty to choose from, but let’s go with the one that spawned perhaps the single greatest team rivalry ever: Claude Lemieux and Kris Draper. It started in the 1996 playoffs, when Lemieux’s dangerous hit from behind broke several bones in Draper’s face. In theory, that issue could have stayed between the two players. But the cheap shot was considered so over-the-line that Draper’s teammates eventually took up the cause, with Darren McCarty jumping Lemieux to touch off one of the most infamous brawls in modern history.

For what it’s worth, the McCarty/Lemieux rivalry went through several stages of its own, including the signature fight and (eventually) a grudging mutual respect.

So that’s where history tells us this whole Tkachuk/Kassian might be headed. Maybe we get there early in tonight’s game, or maybe this all drags on for years to come. But all things must end, and this feud will too.

Well, unless it doesn’t. Because there’s one last possibility we need to mention

This can never end at all and just keep going forever

What happens: Two players hate each other. But then, after their careers are over and there’s been time for cooler heads to prevail, they realize that nope, they still hate each other a lot.

Why it’s good: You have to admire the commitment to the bit. 1173601 Websites Fans on both sides of Red Deer got what they wanted, as did the league, which cashed in on a ratings bonanza some worried wouldn’t live up to the hype.

Sportsnet.ca / Flames, Oilers add classic chapter to Battle of Alberta lore It surpassed it.

In a 90-second span late in the first period the fans were treated to a buffet of brilliance: Eric Francis | January 30, 2020, 1:14 AM • Connor McDavid went old school by deftly splitting defencemen Travis Hamonic and Noah Hanifin to speed in alone on David Rittich, who made a brilliant pad save. EDMONTON – It was the perfect resolution. • A Monahan blast from the slot trickled through Mike Smith, resting mere Everybody won. millimetres from crossing the goal line fully before Nugent-Hopkins Late in the first period of the most anticipated game of the NHL season, cleared the puck. Matthew Tkachuk gave Zack Kassian, the fans, and the hockey • Monahan fought Nugent-Hopkins, followed by the Tkachuk atonement. establishment exactly what it wanted. Who knows, it may wind up being the last fight this battle sees in months, A fight. if not years, as the two teams focused on the two points the division With Kassian. rivals so desperately wanted for the rest of the game.

The winner: hockey In the end, the Flames got them with the 4-3 shootout win, thanks to a Monahan goal that set the stage for Rittich’s saves on Nugent-Hopkins, Less than a minute after lightweights Sean Monahan and Ryan Nugent- Leon Draisaitl and the help of a post on McDavid. Hopkins provided a shocking undercard to get the joint jumping, Tkachuk and Kassian dropped the gloves after a brief discussion before the draw. Andrew Mangiapane’s two goals, a game-opening goal by Elias Lindholm and 31 saves by Rittich paced the visitors. In less time than it takes to ride a bull, the two wrapped up a spirited exchange that saw Tkachuk off balance after missing with an opening The goalie punctuated the game-saving poke-check on Draisaitl with a right. Five furious lefts from Kassian failed to do any damage, ending the Jose Bautista-type stick toss before being mobbed by teammates. tilt with a respectful nod of approval from the big Oiler. On three separate occasions the Oilers battled back to send it into extra Turtle no more. time thanks to goals from Kailer Yamamoto, Alex Chiasson and Matt Benning. "It had nothing to do with the hits, or anything like that — I just didn’t like getting pummeled at home like I did," said Tkachuk, referring to the Jan. The Flames have now won all three provincial meetings this year to sit 11 beating he received from Kassian, without a response. "A lot of people two up on the Oilers, who visit Calgary Saturday. didn’t want me to do it, but I wanted to. "Honestly, right now I just want to go home and go to bed," said Tkachuk "It was just kind of a way for me to stick up for myself, it wasn’t about when asked if he was looking forward to the rematch. owing anybody, or anything. I was doing it for myself." The vitriol is gone, for now, as is the need for Parros to attend the game, With his eighth NHL fight, Tkachuk earned plenty of respect back from as promised. You can bet he still will, as this rivalry is clearly capable of detractors, namely Kassian. taking turns few see coming, such as Benning’s all-world, game-tying goal. "He wanted to fight right away, but I wanted to keep him guessing a little bit," said Kassian in a dressing room quieted by a 4-3 shootout loss. "But The targeted blasts by Tkachuk that prompted Kassian to rag doll him on I respect him for that, and I told before we even dropped the gloves. Now Jan. 11 have been answered to. it’s over. I wish that would have happened in the first place, then it would "I didn’t even know it wasn’t settled," said Tkachuk, still playing it coy. have been done." "It’s just two good teams going at it. It was a great atmosphere in here." Both confirmed afterwards Tkachuk wanted to get the fight out of the way Everyone can feel better about moving forward with a rivalry that may earlier. very well be known for the next several years for its skill more than "First shift, yeah," said Kassian. brawn.

"But I kinda wanted to do it on my terms, make him wait. Think about it Fitting for a game that opened with Warrant Officer Renee Gauthier for a little bit. That’s the game within the game. I just told him, ‘It’ll come. interrupting the ceremonial faceoff on Canadian Armed Forces Just wait for it.’ He wanted to get it over quick. I always said he was a Appreciation Night by surprising her young son with her emotional return good player. I respect him for stepping up to the plate like that." from deployment.

Equally as important for Tkachuk is the fact he avoided injury while once Tears, hugs and goosebumps ensued again demonstrating his high hockey IQ. Fights followed. His teammates ate it up, as did a full house at Rogers Place that was Sanity — and some great hockey — prevailed. peppered with fans in full-sized turtle costumes complete with oversized mouthpieces. The legend of the Battle of Alberta grows.

Hopefully for them they were rentals, not purchases. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 Chants of "Turtle, Turtle," that preceded the affair turned to roars of approval once the fights began.

Everyone came out grinning.

Kassian showed solid restraint to wait for the bout, held off on a complete beatdown and punctuated the scrap with a classy gesture that puts a wrap on the issue.

League disciplinarian George Parros had to be happy with the display in front of him, as the fights weren’t scripted, the hits were clean and the temperature of the rivalry wound up plummeting like an Alberta sunset. 1173602 Websites In his first game back from a concussion, Benning walked Flames defenceman Noah Hanifin and beat the stellar Rittich five-hole. It was his first of the season, but looked like the work of a 25-goal man.

Sportsnet.ca / Oilers, Flames still separated by thinnest margins after "We’re down a goal, and Connor’s screaming at me, ‘Go! Go! Go!’" latest battle Benning said. "When he’s yelling that it’s probably a good idea to listen to him. Nine out of 10 you probably dump that puck in."

The last time these teams played, a late Leon Draisaitl crossbar Mark Spector | January 30, 2020, 2:48 AM preserved a one-goal win for Calgary. This time, two OT posts behind were the difference.

Clearly, there isn’t much to choose between the two teams, though in a EDMONTON — A Sean Monahan ace beat a pair of posts by the tight Pacific Division race, Calgary has now taken six points to Edmonton Oilers in the shootout, on a rare night when a marquee game Edmonton’s one in their first three meetings this season. lived up to the hype that preceded it. "Hey, we got a point," said Kassian. "There are going to be some highs And now that Matthew Tkachuk and Zack Kassian are all buddy buddy, a and lows here. We’ve got to stay even keeled." Mark Giordano knee won’t replace the vitriol either. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 "I don’t want to start a big media circus at all," said Connor McDavid, who was incensed on the bench when Giordano, whose hit caused him to injure his knee last year, clipped that same left knee with his own as McDavid whizzed past. "He’s obviously a guy that plays hard and that’s that."

Absent any defined feuds to take us into a Saturday night rematch in Calgary, this 4-3 Flames shootout win was exactly what we remember of the old Battle of Alberta, a rivalry contested back in the 80s between the two best teams in the National Hockey League.

It started with Tkachuk finally throwing down with Kassian, and ended with Monahan scoring the only goal in a shootout that saw both Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and McDavid ring their attempts off of David Rittich’s goal posts.

"Chucky is a warrior," Monahan said. "He answered the bell and it was the right thing to do."

In between was the best Edmonton-Calgary action since, well, Jan. 11 when Calgary beat the Oilers 4-3 at the Saddledome.

"Ever since I got drafted to Calgary I never really knew about the battle of Alberta, to be honest," began Tkachuk after the game. "But the day I was drafted I was told, ‘You don’t like them.’ So it’s kind of been engrained in me."

He said he fought Kassian out of self respect.

"I just didn’t like getting pummeled at home like I did," Tkachuk said. "I guess it was a must-see hockey game for fans – two teams close to each other city-wise. Fans get into it. Guess it has been a rivalry for years."

How will these teams top this game on Saturday?

"Honestly," Tkachuk sighed, "right now I just want to go home and go to bed."

The Rogers Place crowd was dotted with folks wearing turtle suits in honour of Tkachuk’s nickname in these parts, and chants of "Tuuurtle! Tuuurtle!" rained down for much of the night.

"It reminded me of the playoffs, in my first year (2017)," said Oilers defenceman Matt Benning. "The fans were into it, and that’s the part that makes it fun. When it’s quiet, you have to create your own energy from the bench. When the fans are loud like that, it definitely gets us going. It was a playoff game out there. Awesome."

And just like in the old days of The Battle, once Tkachuk simply stood up for himself, he earned the respect of Kassian and the fans, to a lesser extent. After the fights, the game settled down into fast-paced, entertaining hockey.

"That’s hockey. Fun game to watch," said Monahan. "The emotion was there and for our team, that was a real important game. We were sticking with it all night and they were, too. We’re in the same spot and every point means something. It was a hard-fought game and we were happy to get the extra point."

Adam Larsson kicked one into his one net to open the game, and then Calgary took two more leads of 2-1 and 3-2 — both Andrew Mangiapane goals — before Benning, of all people, made a lovely solo rush to tie the game with 8:11 to play in the third. 1173603 Websites Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman talk to a lot of people around the hockey world, and then they tell listeners all about what they’ve heard and what they think about it.

Sportsnet.ca / Canucks begin difficult road trip with resilient win over MOTTE INJURED Sharks It looked like the Canucks might have lost important checkers and penalty-killers Jay Beagle and Tyler Motte after Sharks’ star Erik Karlsson injured both in the second period. Iain MacIntyre | January 30, 2020, 2:21 AM Beagle blocked Karlsson’s shot with his hand or wrist a few minutes before the San Jose defenceman dangerously ran Motte’s head into the glass, using his elbow to finish a high check after it looked like the The Vancouver Canucks took their Home Show on the road Wednesday Canuck might get around him. Karlsson was not penalized. with an impressive 5-2 victory against the San Jose Sharks that started a difficult five-game road trip for the Pacific Division leaders. Beagle and Motte both went to the dressing room, but Beagle was able to return for the third period and helped set up Sutter’s goal that made it Winners of nine straight National Hockey League games in Vancouver, 4-2. There was no immediate update from the Canucks on the the Canucks weren’t as sharp or territorially superior as they’ve been for seriousness of Motte’s injury. most of the last three weeks. But their poise, resilience, confidence and scoring depth in San Jose were enough to beat the Sharks. Goaltender The timing of the injury is a little unsettling. Jacob Markstrom helped, too. It was this time last year, right as the Canucks moved into a playoff After struggling to survive a second period played largely in their end, the position just after the NHL All-Star Break, that a series of injuries crashed Canucks simply took the game away from the Sharks in the third, scoring their season. But the team has profoundly more going for it this year. four times to turn a 2-1 deficit into a three-goal victory. Their playoff cushion also increased Wednesday to eight points, a season-high. Tyler Myers’ screened point shot tied it for the Canucks 2:36 into the final period before Jake Virtanen scored on a power play at 7:00 and Brandon THE BOESER CONUNDRUM Sutter swept in a loose puck 59 seconds later after a nice rush by J.T. Miller. Demoted to the third line four games earlier, winger Brock Boeser got to play a few shifts Wednesday back beside Pettersson and Miller. Boeser Markstrom, the all-star who hadn’t played since Jan. 16, stopped 38 of 40 also picked up an assist on Hughes’ goal to end a five-game pointless San Jose shots and kept the Canucks close when they were being streak that was the longest of his short career. outshot 14-6 in the middle period. Intuitively, it seems wrong that Green has moved Boeser away from It was the third win in the last four road games for Vancouver, which is Pettersson. Boeser is the team’s best natural goal-scorer, and Pettersson still a game below .500 away from Rogers Arena but 13-3 overall the last the Canucks’ best forward and playmaker. When they were together with six weeks. Miller, Boeser was a point-per-game player and the line one of the most dominant territorially in the NHL this season. As the Canucks prepare to fly across the continent for consecutive afternoon games Saturday against the New York Islanders and Sunday As encouraging as third-line centre Adam Gaudette’s development has versus the Carolina Hurricanes, we offer a few not-so-deep thoughts on been, the second-year pro has 20 assists in 102 games before Wednesday’s win. Wednesday. He’s not getting the puck to Boeser.

Home of the Canucks So, it’s easy to conclude Green made a mistake.

Stream all 82 Canucks games this season with Sportsnet NOW. Get over Except, the Canucks have won all four games since the line switch and 500 NHL games, blackout-free, including , all Virtanen, promoted to the top unit, has been outstanding. Including outdoor games, the All-Star Game, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs and more. power-play time, Virtanen has two goals and six points in the last four games. Miller and Pettersson aren’t suffering, either. They’ve combined MACHINE-GUN JAKE for 11 points in the four games. On the first day of training camp in September, Virtanen boldly revealed The objective is to win, and Green’s responsibility is to his team. For that he planned to score at least 20 goals this season. His prediction was now, the right wing on the first line is Virtanen’s spot to lose, and he has kind of lost by bigger news that day that Virtanen was dropped by coach played like he wants to keep it. Boeser has to just keep working as hard Travis Green to the minor-league grouping at training camp as as he did Wednesday. punishment for narrowly missing off-season conditioning goals set by him and the team. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 More than four months later, Virtanen is playing the best hockey of his career and on Wednesday scored his 16th goal in 51 games, beating the “career” high of 15 the 23-year-old potted last season.

Six of his 16 goals have been game-winners, and since Virtanen has spent the last four-and-a-half games playing mostly with Miller and Elias Pettersson on the top line, there’s a good chance he’s going score a lot more than four times over the final 31 games.

He’ll probably never play well enough to justify his sixth-overall selection in the 2014 draft, but Virtanen is emerging as an impactful NHL player.

MIGHTY QUINN

One game after his most embarrassing mistake of the season, rookie Canucks defenceman Quinn Hughes made another of those tight pivots with the pucks against the Sharks – this time in the offensive zone – to befuddle San Jose’s Timo Meier before skating it to the point and blasting Vancouver’s first goal past Martin Jones at 11:08 of the opening period.

Hughes was probably the guy least embarrassed by his turnover that led to the St. Louis Blues’ goal in the Canucks’ 3-1 home win on Monday. Stuff happens. The precocious 20-year-old has confidence to match his dazzling talent, which is why the Canucks are right to give him the freedom to make mistakes as he learns. And, man, is he learning quickly. 1173604 Websites The reward for seeing things through is being realized now. Not only does he look like a lock to surpass Michael Nylander’s career-

best 26 goals, he’s got an outside chance to beat his father’s 79-point Sportsnet.ca / Leafs' Nylander closing in on family history with renewed season with the New York Rangers in 2005-06 — with William now on swagger pace for 74.

His run of high-end play has now stretched over six weeks and, while the scoring totals might not be fully sustainable, there’s reason to believe Chris Johnston | January 29, 2020, 10:22 PM he’s simply establishing a new level of performance.

“I think there’s an opportunity for him to keep growing,” said Keefe. “From my perspective, he’s a very dangerous and talented offensive player and DALLAS — By now, the footsteps should be getting awfully loud. the more opportunities he gets he has the ability to make good on them. I Michael Nylander was the first to make his family’s name over here in the don’t see this as a hot streak, necessarily.” NHL, but son William is on the verge of establishing some new Nylander The Leafs can be a downright lethal opponent as a result. marks. The red-hot Toronto Maple Leafs winger sits just two goals behind his father’s best season after scoring for a fifth straight game They certainly made tidy work of a Stars team that entered Wednesday’s Wednesday and he’s still got more than a third of the year to go. game as the stingiest outfit in the league. Marner made a high-end pass to Matthews for the opening goal and then those two flashed their skill in Now, that piece of trivia clearly carries some significance for William — helping move the puck 200 feet within seconds before Zach Hyman “Oh really, wow. Now we’ve got to step on it here,” he said this week — scored another. but it also helps underline why the Leafs have been the NHL’s highest- scoring team by a wide margin since Sheldon Keefe took over as head The goals by Nylander and Tyson Barrie came quickly off forced coach. turnovers.

Nylander is a second-line winger in Toronto and his 24 goals would “Hey, they can score,” said Stars interim coach Rick Bowness. “Man I currently make him the top scorer on 21 other NHL teams. Oh, and he love their creativity, they’re great on the rush and you can see they’re still trails Leafs teammate Auston Matthews by a ridiculous 12 goals after making a very concerted effort to play a more structured game he also potted one during a 5-3 victory over the Dallas Stars. defensively.

There isn’t too much mystery behind Nylander’s recent scoring binge. “They’re a great hockey club over there.”

You can trace it back to a road trip through Western Canada in mid- They’ve taken another step alongside Nylander, who is playing with December where the 23-year-old wasn’t too happy with his play. During a confidence and starting to earn some family bragging rights. meeting with Keefe that followed, the coach reinforced the need for Nylander to use his superlative ability to hang on to pucks in the Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 offensive zone and create better looks.

“When it’s not going well for him those pucks get off his stick too quickly,” Keefe said on Dec. 20.

Now, look how much damage Nylander has done over 16 games since that meeting: 13 goals on 53 shots — a career-best stretch of 3.3 shots per game — to go with 22 points.

There is a renewed swagger to his play and he’s enjoyed almost all of that success alongside centre John Tavares, allowing Keefe to give Matthews and Mitch Marner their first extended stretch of action together on the top line.

“I mean once you’re scoring you feel confident in your shot,” Nylander explained. “I think that’s when you keep shooting the puck.”

The only shot he registered against the Stars was the one that beat Ben Bishop early in the third period — a nifty play where Nylander found a patch of open real estate at the edge of the crease and kicked the puck up to his stick.

However, that doesn’t tell the entire story of his night.

He led the Leafs in offensive zone possession time, according to Sportlogiq, which shows that he was putting his knack for transporting the puck to good use. Opponents have to respect the cross-ice pass as well as the shot when Nylander is carrying it.

“He’s got both really good attributes: He can see the ice really well and he’s got a really nice shot,” said Matthews. “I mean, a lot of his goals lately have just been coming from the net. He’s a really strong skater, he’s a strong guy.

“He’s not afraid to go to the net and obviously he’s been getting rewarded quite a bit.”

Home of the Maple Leafs

Stream 56 Maple Leafs games this season with Sportsnet NOW. Get over 500 NHL games, blackout-free, including Hockey Night in Canada, all outdoor games, the All-Star Game, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs and more.

This is why Leafs management was so insistent on keeping Nylander in the fold even while riding the highs and lows of a contract dispute with his camp last season. The easy move would have been to trade him to one of several interested suitors. 1173605 Websites series. The latter was a ridiculous defensive play by James, an incredible stuff of a layup attempt by Andre Iguodala with 1:50 remaining. (Where did my memory fail in this case? I thought Steph Curry was the one rejected.) Sportsnet.ca / 31 Thoughts: Maple Leafs' fortunes will decide deadline approach Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman talk to a lot of people around the hockey world, and then they tell listeners all about what they’ve heard and what they think about it.

Elliotte Friedman January 29, 2020, 1:08 PM I had zero recollection of “the stop,” but it was a defensive possession by Kevin Love, standing in front of Curry before the great shooter missed a

three-pointer after Irving scored. Clinton Merck remembers when the hockey bug bit him. “That was a collective memory by Cavaliers fans,” Merck said. “It was “It was when the Penguins won the Stanley Cup in 2009,” he said shared widely, a strong part of their identity.” Tuesday. “The intensity of the (playoffs). The dedication of the players. I However, Cleveland baseball fans, remembering Game 7 of 2016, did watched that Game 7 against Detroit in my bedroom in my parents’ not emphasize things that went well for the champion Cubs. house. I had the volume down so I didn’t disturb them. I had to be up at 4:00 a.m. for my summer job.” “That was kind of unexpected. They remembered good for their team, rather than the Cubs winning.” Merck was 20 years old, living in a small town near Akron, Ohio. His summer job was sealing cracks for a county road crew. A decade later, Number one was Rajai Davis’s shocking eighth-inning homer off Aroldis he still loves the playoffs, as does his wife, Kelsey. There’s one detail he Chapman that sent Game 7 into extra innings. A couple of others you’d messes up about the epic Pittsburgh victory over the Red Wings, though. never guess. He thought Game 7 went to overtime. It didn’t, as Marc-Andre Fleury robbed Nicklas Lidstrom in the final seconds to preserve the win. “There was a foul ball by Jason Kipnis. It wasn’t a home run — you won’t see it show up in the highlight videos. And they remember the rain delay: There’s something funny and ironic about that. Merck is now a PhD ‘We had all the momentum and the rain delay killed it.’” (With the game Student in psychology at The New School in New York City, studying the tied 6-6 in the bottom of the ninth, Kipnis hit a long fly ball that curled foul social aspects of memory and how groups remember events. He’s short of the right-field wall. The rain delay was in the 10th. The Cubs working on his thesis: “Social Identity and Public Event Memory: The scored the eventual winning runs right after it ended.) Role of Event-Centrality in Event Memory Formation and Maintenance.” “The personal circumstances in which you witness things are called He’s got a question: What are your four biggest memories from Game 7 ‘flashbulb memories,’” Merck explained. “Every American has a flashbulb of the 2019 Stanley Cup Final? memory of 9/11. Where were you, what you were doing, who you were with. This is a place to really study flashbulb memory. When the As you read this, Merck is hours away from finishing his research, with Cavaliers won the NBA title, I couldn’t watch. At halftime, I boarded a that event at the epicentre. The link to his survey was re-tweeted into my plane from New York to Denmark for a conference. I was so upset. From timeline last week. I clicked on it, answered the questions and reached Copenhagen, I took a train to a city called Aarhus. When I heard the out for an interview. He asked to wait until this week, because he was Cavs won, I teared up. Later, when I told people, fans had to tell me all worried added attention could corrupt the sample. about their experience. This is the third stage of his research. The first survey was put up right “Flashbulb memory doesn’t make a lot of sense. Memory in general is after the Eastern and Western Conference Finals, for a two-week period. not consistent. We reconstruct things every time we remember, update “That took longer to put together,” Merck said. “About eight hours over a our memory with the current context. But people have high levels of few days. I had to set up the survey flow; what team (you) are a fan of confidence or vividness of memory.” created paths to answer the questions.” Merck said that when it came to the Cavaliers, 90 per cent of people who How many people filled it out? took the survey ranked their confidence level as a seven out of seven on what they remembered. “About 450,” he answered. “And a lot of them [had been] drinking.” Once those paths were set up, it was quicker to finish the next surveys. The second one dropped the day after the Stanley Cup Final, again for There were three vivid memories for me from St. Louis’s Game 7 win two weeks. The third was released Jan. 15, to conclude Wednesday. over Boston. The first was Alex Pietrangelo’s goal at 19:52 of the first that made it 2-0 Blues. The second was Brayden Schenn’s 3-0 goal “I wanted to see what people remembered immediately, to establish a midway through the third. The last was Chris Thorburn, a hugely popular baseline,” Merck said. teammate who’d been through an emotional year, being one of the first Blues handed the Stanley Cup despite playing just one NHL game all Seven months later, he’s testing for accuracy. What does he expect? season. “I have some theories from prior research,” is the reply. In the original post-Final survey, the Pietrangelo goal was heavily This is not the first time Merck has used sports to test memory. His father mentioned, because it featured a rare mistake by Brad Marchand. There taught him to love Cleveland sports, fondly recalling the 1964 NFL is no grey area with the Boston winger. Good or bad, he’s never ignored. Championship Game. The Browns beat the Baltimore Colts 27-0, that Jordan Binnington received several votes “for playing out of his mind,” city’s last Big 4 championship until LeBron James’s Cavaliers beat with special dispensation for a third period save on Joakim Nordstrom Golden State in the 2016 NBA Final. That same year, the Indians lost to when it was still 2-0. (I’d forgotten about that one.) the Chicago Cubs in an epic World Series. He posted surveys in the “The Blues fans expected Binnington to be great,” Merck said. “The aftermath of both events. Bruins fans were saying, ‘Who expected him to be so on fire?’ They don’t “Being a fan doesn’t lead to reliable memory,” he said. “Details vary with end up sharing the same details.” winning and losing. And they shift over time. The way you remember He was not surprised to hear that I didn’t have four vivid memories, since them then is different from the way you remember them now.” I didn’t identify as a fan of either team. There’s also the matter of how important each memory is to a particular “For Blues fans, (Game 7) is more central to their identity than [it is for group. Bruins fans]. We’ll see how those ratings have changed from the last In his survey about the 2016 NBA Final, Merck said Cleveland fans had survey to this. I’d expect Bruins fans to forget more, remember fewer the same memories — “the shot, the stop and the block,” as he called details.” them. I’m curious to hear the results, but I’m betting Blues fans will say they “The shot” and “the block” were easy for me. The former was Kyrie haven’t forgotten a thing. Irving’s 25-footer with 53 seconds left in Game 7, the winning score in the 31 THOUGHTS 1. There will be more on Kobe Bryant at the end of the blog, but there’s as much in Ottawa’s hands as his own, but DeMelo’s solid 2019–20 has at least one NHL connection. When was a heavily not gone unnoticed. pursued free agent in the summer of 2011, Los Angeles was determined to get him. Part of their pitch was a recruitment video. Bryant was one of 8. The Sabres resumed their season with a 5–2 home loss to Ottawa on those who recorded a message. Tuesday night. At all-star weekend, I heard some talk of the frustration around the organization and how much the losing is wearing on owner “That was before I met my wife,” Richards said Monday. Terry Pegula. We’re coming up on nine years since he bought the Sabres. At that media conference, he promised to spend, which had Like everyone else, he was shocked by news of the crash. Sabres fans dancing with joy. He’s spent on players, coaches, “I told her about the video. She was surprised. ‘What do you mean he executives, scouting — everything. They made the playoffs that first was talking to you?’” season, losing in seven games to Philadelphia. But there have been no playoff berths since, and the team is 80 games under .500 in that span. What did Bryant say? Players credited Ralph Krueger with changing the attitude around the “He talked about his championships. What it was like to win in L.A. … team, and Jack Eichel’s having a Hart Trophy-calibre season. But they’re how great it was to win there. I’m not a big basketball fan, but I watched 10 points out as we wake up on Wednesday and there are no easy as much of Michael Jordan as I could. Kobe, to me, was on the same answers. The disappointment is not going unnoticed. level. Wayne Gretzky was in [the video], so was Clay Matthews…. They found out I was a Packers fan. They all talked about how much they 9. Didn’t realize until this weekend that Chris Pronger, senior advisor to loved winning. You’re in a fog, trying to jam in a lifetime decision. I’m Dale Tallon with Florida, only signs one-year contracts. thinking: ‘Why is [Kobe] talking to me? Who am I?’” 10. Speaking of contracts, sources indicate that John Hynes received a Richards chose the Rangers, and continues to work for them in an one-year extension when hired in Nashville and Peter DeBoer two in advisory role. Vegas. The former is now under contract through the 2021–22 season and the latter through 2022–23. “I wanted to go back east, and that was the right choice. But the Kings made it harder than I expected.” 11. There was NHL interest in CSKA Moscow’s Nikita Nesterov, who played 132 games with Tampa Bay and Montreal from 2014–15 to 2016– Does he still have the video? 17. (I think the Kings were one of the clubs nosing around.) But there is word he will sign a long-term deal in Russia. “It is with my parents in Murray Harbour (). I’ll go back and watch it at some point. And I’ll appreciate it more.” 12. George Parros, head of the NHL’s Department of Player Safety, is in Edmonton for tonight’s Battle of Alberta resumption. He will stay in the 2. Toronto GM Kyle Dubas has had this to say to other teams regarding province for Saturday’s rematch. It is believed to be his first travel for his team’s approach at the deadline: “Our players will decide what we specific deterrence since the 2016–17 season, when he and then- do.” Their fortunes will determine whether or not the Maple Leafs pursue department head Stephane Quintal went to Vancouver for a Maple Leafs- a right-handed defender or test the market on their UFAs-to-be. They Canucks rematch after was not suspended for a massive played very well in a 5-2 win over Nashville in their first game back from hit on Daniel Sedin. Parros is not expected to meet with the teams before the all-star break, with a tough game in Dallas coming up on Wednesday. the game, but has previously spoken to both GMs. They have looked into Minnesota’s Mathew Dumba, who fits with Toronto’s modus operandi — he has three years remaining on his 13. Alluded to this on Twitter the other day, but the NHL is not giving up contract. As one exec said, “They are investigating every good on attempts to hold regular-season games in Russia. There was a desire defenceman on the market.” to do it for next season, but logistical challenges will prevent that from occurring. However, the league will try for 2021–22. The NHL would not 3. Montreal’s message is the Canadiens aren’t interested in rentals, and confirm the teams, but, if it were to have happened next season, it looked the most likely scenario is they don’t do a ton. Even though the 2020 like St. Louis vs. Washington. It would be incredible to watch, something playoffs are a long shot, they want to be in the race for 2021. Trading that someone born in 1970 (like myself) never thought they would see in those who can help them next year (Jeff Petry, Tomas Tatar) doesn’t their lifetime. make sense barring something they absolutely can’t turn down. 14. Had a chance to debrief all-star weekend on Tuesday with the NHL’s 4. Joe Thornton opened the door to the possibility of a trade, but told San Chief Content Officer, Steve Mayer. There were a couple of key Jose-area reporters he would need to think about it first. My guess is this: takeaways from our conversation. First, it looks like the female players The only way the Sharks would even consider it is if it came at his are going to be a consistent part of the festivities. The biggest request. newsmaker of 2019 San Jose was Kendall Coyne-Schofield. The three- 5. Other players at all-star weekend think Chris Kreider really likes being on-three game was one of the best events from 2020 St. Louis. a Ranger. The biggest challenge could be what offers they get for him. I didn’t know much about Canadian goalie Ann-Renee Desbiens, but I do There will still be an extension conversation. If New York goes five or six now. It’s a big stage, and she shined brightest. Performance determines years at around $6.75 million per, what will he say? your future, and they’ve earned their spot. 6. Kreider told a great story last Tuesday about Henrik Lundqvist “The game was very well-received,” Mayer said. dominating a shootout competition. I don’t know that putting the women in the actual All-Star Game is a “I could have gone 15 times and not scored,” he said. possibility — but Mayer hinted, without any specifics, at some kind of Lundqvist may not be playing as much, but he hasn’t lost any of the fire. competition. This is not a confident prediction, but no one would be surprised if the “It needs to be fun,” he added. Rangers punt their goalie decision until the post-season — keeping Lundqvist, Alexandar Georgiev and Igor Shesterkin for now. They don’t Hilary Knight and Marie-Philip Poulin were in the Shooting Stars event; want to rush into a move they later regret. They may be looking for the accuracy competition makes sense, too. (They are going to someone to help AHL Hartford in case Shesterkin goes to the NHL for brainstorm other ideas.) good. One suggestion: There were some NHLers who wanted to go on the Sign up for NHL newsletters respective Canada/U.S. benches to watch the game and support the players, but they were confined to the tunnel. It would look good if they Get the best of our NHL coverage and exclusives delivered directly to could do so. your inbox! 15. Interestingly, Mayer said he sought out several players to get their 7. Every year, Brian Burke tells me the trade deadline is going to be a feedback on what works and what doesn’t, and he’s considering more dud, and every year I tell him something big will happen that we don’t see input from a select small group this summer. coming. This is his best chance to be right. I don’t sense much excitement with what we know is available on the rental market. There “What are their thoughts?” he said. “What do they want to see?” could be more interest in the price points of players who wouldn’t jump to the top of most of our lists. One example is Dylan DeMelo. His future is I said one of them had to be Patrick Kane. “He was pretty vocal,” Mayer answered. “Opinionated. I appreciated that “I feel way more patient than I did before,” he said. “I feel way more on he cares enough to comment.” top of reads. I feel like I’m challenging very well, making more controlled saves.” What did he say? As the all-star break arrived, he looked tired, giving up eight goals in first “He wanted styrofoam targets (for the accuracy event).” periods against Tampa Bay, Chicago and Carolina. He carried the Jets Mayer made sure to talk to players with different amounts of all-star through the first four months, so it was understandable. experience — Quinn Hughes, Seth Jones and David Pastrnak among “I think mental fatigue is worse than physical fatigue. I could play 82 them. Personally, I thought the Skills competition needs to be 30 minutes physically, but mentally there’s no way. There’s certain games that really shorter. drain on you mentally because you might not get a whole lot of shots but “That is one thing we’ve asked: ‘Does everyone have to participate?’” you have to read the play over and over again. Just because it doesn’t get to the net doesn’t mean it wasn’t a whole lot of mental effort just in St. Louis’s crowd was enthusiastic, the alumni were a big hit, and there case it did, right? I think that’s the biggest thing. When you get a lot of were five-hour-long lineups to be photographed with the Stanley Cup. I pressure, you’re constantly making decisions. Not only that, but you’re loved the visuals of the all-stars walking through the crowd to get to the trying to identify when is your moment, when is the moment you’re going shooting-stars platform. That one is going to be back, with some tweaks to have to come and take a shot, and when is the moment you’re going to make the scoring less confusing. to change the play…. That weighs on your brain, you know?”

Mayer wanted to credit his executive assistant, Francesca Ranieri, for 22. The good news for Winnipeg and its fans is when I asked if he was coming up with the Justin Bieber mask. He wouldn’t comment on this, but worn down, Hellebuyck pooh-poohed the suggestion. I heard it was no coincidence Tomas Hertl ended up wearing it. Someone with a big, fun personality was necessary, and Hertl certainly qualifies. “I think this break’s huge. I wouldn’t say it’s ever been too much yet because I’ve managed it pretty well, and I’ve been turning my brain off 16. Again, Mayer didn’t want to go too much into it, but I got the sense when I need to. Definitely there’s some moments when I needed some that next year’s “international theme” will try to go beyond the regular rest and I think I got those. I think this is going to be really good for me Canada, U.S., Czech Republic, Finland, Russia, Sweden format. He now to just kind of wipe everything clean and come back right where I wants to see if there’s a fresh approach. I wondered if a KHL team or started at the beginning of the year.” other international players would be invited, but that appears unlikely. 23. It was a Twitter user named Janna (@helloyorick) who noticed that 17. We did discuss Green Day’s “colourful” appearance. I laughed it off. Jacob Markstrom was wearing a suit designed by Yoyuu, a clothing Some parents get upset at that language, but I’ve always looked at it like company founded by Godfrey Gao: it’s my responsibility to explain what’s acceptable and what isn’t. (Not that my eight-year-old listens to anything I say.) The league went over the Gao, a popular actor and model, died last November of cardiac arrest lyrics with the band. I guess Billie Joe Armstrong was feeling a bit … while filming a television series. constrained by the clean version. There is another year remaining on “We had mutual friends,” Markstrom said on Saturday, hours before his Green Day’s contract with the NHL. Pacific Division won the three-on-three event. “When we played in China “We’ll let the dust settle and re-engage later. There are no specifics for (2017), I left him tickets.” any future performances other than (this) all-star,” Mayer said. “We’ll After Gao’s death, Markstrom reached out in support, hoping to keep see.” Gao’s memory strong by wearing the suits.

18. I will say this until I am blue in the face, but after watching Shea “I have five or six, and that one is rain-proof,” he said, making it perfect Weber dominate the hardest shot, the NHL is missing out on a perfect for Vancouver. made-for-TV moment if it does not put him and Zdeno Chara against each other one more time before they retire. Chara’s won five times and Markstrom also surprised his mother and uncle, who made the trip to St. Weber four. Send both of them (and their families) to Florida next Louis, by choosing the anthem of the Swedish soccer team his father January and give us our showdown! played for as his intro music at the skills’ competition. (Markstrom took a leave of absence in December after his father’s death.) You could tell 19. I thought Calgary’s David Rittich would have been a good all-star how proud he was that they were pleasantly surprised to hear it. Small MVP choice had the trophy not gone to David Pastrnak. Rittich said he things are big things, always. would’ve voted for Hertl. Then he smiled and added, “I’d share it with him.” 24. One of the things I’m really looking forward to getting with puck and player tracking is more detailed analysis of passing. Quinn Hughes is Hockey Day in Canada in Yellowknife, NT absolutely incredible at it, and he talked at length about setting up both Celebrating Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada’s 20th anniversary, Brock Boeser and Elias Pettersson for one-timers on the power play. Sportsnet and Scotiabank unite to bring a 4-day hockey festival to “Elias likes a certain spin, and I’ve been working on getting it right,” he Yellowknife, NT and a 12-hour NHL broadcast to Canadian fans coast-to- said. coast-to-coast. Pettersson deadpanned that “(Hughes) still hasn’t figured it out.” 20. Commissioner Gary Bettman, asked if there was a deadline for 2022 Olympic participation, made it very clear he wasn’t going to be bound by What does he want? IIHF President Rene Fasel’s wish for an answer this summer. “I like it flat along the ice, outside the foot.” “[Fasel] also said last summer that he wanted an answer by December, and he didn’t get one,” Bettman said. “I actually think that the deadline is 25. Did Pacific coach Rick Tocchet consider starting Leon Draisaitl, really more one that we would have to impose in terms of logistics. My Connor McDavid and Matthew Tkachuk together? He smiled. guess is if at a point in time we said we wanted to go and we could “I thought about it. But I would get killed.” handle the timing of it … the IIHF could as well.” Seriously, all of the all-stars combined probably couldn’t take Tocchet. The commissioner indicated the release of the 2021–22 NHL schedule is the “game-changer one way or the other.” As a reference, this year’s 26. I asked Tocchet what he learned by seeing McDavid up close for a schedule was released on June 25. couple of days.

21. There might be no more important player in the second half of the “His calmness,” the coach replied. “Wayne had that. Mario had that. No season than Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck. I asked him if he felt as wasted energy. He knows what he has to do, and that’s what he’s good as he looked in the first half of the season, and he answered that focussed on.” he did. 27. Dr. Mark Lindsay, the in-demand chiropractor and soft-tissue The best of the best in anything know when they’re going well and when specialist who basically lived with McDavid during his recovery, says he they’re going poorly. He came across as very comfortable in his own will be doing a research paper for Queen’s University on last summer’s skin, feeling very positive about everything from tracking the puck to process. overall patience. 28. The Blues ended a three-game losing streak with Tuesday’s 5-4 shootout win in Calgary. They are really good, and it wouldn’t be a stunner if they repeated. What was interesting is that their players and coach Craig Berube said they never talk about it.

“When we were in last place last season, we realized that you have to focus on what you are doing in the moment,” captain Alex Pietrangelo said. “You can’t look ahead. That’s what worked for us.”

“Probably about two or three weeks after we won, we got an email from the coaching staff saying, ‘It’s time to start preparing for next year and this is what we expect,’” laughed David Perron. “At the time, I was thinking, ‘Come on, we just won.’ But, looking back, I thought that was excellent for getting us in the right place mentally.”

29. A few of the Eastern Conference players said they can see confidence growing in Florida’s Sergey Bobrovsky.

“He went from an airtight defensive team to one that isn’t,” an all-star said. “That takes time.”

Senior Writer Ryan Dixon and NHL Editor Rory Boylen always give it 110%, but never rely on clichés when it comes to podcasting. Instead, they use a mix of facts, fun and a varied group of hockey voices to cover Canada’s most beloved game.

30. Sounds like the AHL is weeks away — if that — from deciding on a successor to outgoing President Dave Andrews.

31. It’s so hard to formulate thoughts about Kobe Bryant. First of all, you think about the player. Back when I covered the NBA, I always looked forward to his visits to Toronto. There are two particular games I remember. The first was a 94–88 Raptors loss in December of the 1999– 00 season.

At the end of that game, with the outcome already decided, the Raptors tried a spectacular alley-oop off the backboard for Vince Carter. It didn’t work, but if it had the place would’ve gone crazy even in a loss. I remember Bryant laughing as that happened. It was like he was saying, “Do you want to win the game, or do you want to win the crowd?” When you’re the home team and you’re about to lose, I don’t have a problem with trying to send the fans home happy. But I remembered the look on Bryant’s face. To him, showing well in a loss … it just didn’t matter.

A year later, the Lakers came in again and beat the Raptors 104–101 in overtime. That game, the Lakers led the whole way, and the Raptors caught them in the fourth quarter. Then the Lakers took control again and won in overtime. Bryant had 40 points on 29 shots — that’s a good ratio. Carter had 31 points on 32 shots. He got hot in the fourth, but generally had a rough day. I remember in the post-game, we were all raving about how Carter got the game to overtime. Now you have to understand: That day, Bryant played 52 of the game’s 53 minutes, and he looked at us like: “Who had the better day, the guy who played 50 minutes, or the guy who played 10?” I say all this not to make fun of Vince Carter, but it was in those moments I recognized the competitiveness of Kobe Bryant.

As for the accident, I think of all of the families affected, and especially the children. It’s been 37 years since my mother passed away on her 35th birthday. I was 11 years old then, and I had two younger sisters at the time. When something like this happens, I think about how the moment affected me — then and now. It’s hard to say that any positive comes out of something like that, but I think and I know that there are lessons learned that shape you and help you recover. You gain a greater appreciation for things. You recognize what really matters and what doesn’t. I know that in a very weird way, and a difficult way to explain in writing, that I’m fortunate enough to be where I am as a person and as a professional because of the lessons I learned in the aftermath of that.

I hope that in 35 years from now, the children affected by Sunday’s helicopter crash will be able to say the same. I hope that in time they will be successful, they will be happy, and that out of the darkness of this moment came positive lessons that shaped a bright future. I know that was the case for me.

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173606 Websites ‘Suitcase,’ like Gary ‘Suitcase’ Smith of Ottawa, a goalie who once played for seven NHL teams plus others in the AHL, WHA and CHL.

There is a case to be made that the Senators could trade Duclair while Sportsnet.ca / Senators should wait out Anthony Duclair offers as trade his value is high, rather then buying high on a long-term contract for a deadline nears player who hasn’t yet proven he can be a consistent NHL performer.

There is a third option, which might be the most prudent.

Wayne Scanlan January 29, 2020, 10:52 AM Status quo. Let things ride.

Because Duclair is only approaching RFA status, not unrestricted, the Senators hold all the cards as far as Duclair’s future. They can offer him Even the best goal scorers tend to be streaky. a short-term deal or qualifying offer and if it’s not agreeable to Duclair, he has arbitration rights. Another year would provide a larger sample of work The downside of those goal-scoring binges? – nasty, parch-dry droughts, from which to judge Duclair’s place on a rapidly-evolving roster. when the players with the deft touch wonder why the puck suddenly won’t go in. Last summer, the Senators provided Duclair with a one-year deal for $1.65 million and challenged him to prove he could be part of Ottawa’s Ottawa’s Anthony Duclair, everyone’s favourite surprise story in future. December, is going through one of those dry spells right now. For the most part, he has done that. And still the Senators don’t have to A month ago, he was the NHL’s hottest scorer – with 11 goals in the nine commit, just yet. games the Senators played between Dec. 4 and Dec. 21. He had 21 goals through his first 37 games and was once on pace to score 46 this Head coach D.J. Smith, who doesn’t have many goal-scorers at his season. disposal, has leaned on Duclair and provided him opportunities on both special teams. Though he hadn’t killed penalties since his junior hockey With one game left in January (Friday versus Washington), Duclair is still days, Duclair has relished that chance here and tapped into veteran looking for his first goal of the New Year and now projects to scoring 35 centre Jean-Gabriel Pageau as a source of information on the art of the goals, not 40-plus. kill. In Ottawa’s energetic 5-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday, When Duclair was announced as Ottawa’s representative at the All-Star Duclair ran his goal-scoring drought to 12 games, but it wasn’t for lack of Game (teammate Brady Tkachuk joined him as a late replacement effort that the well stayed dry. Duclair was ever-dangerous, had several player), general manager and Smith were thrilled for the close-in chances on Buffalo netminder Linus Ullmark and finished with player known around here as The Duke. nine(!) shots on goal. Repeatedly, Duclair was seen on the bench shaking his head. He will bust out of this soon. Smith has said he loves the character, work ethic and energy of his young winger, who clearly no longer just does “whatever the hell he Or, he already has if you count the three goals Duclair scored against the wants,” to borrow from Torts. Metro Division in the All-Star Game tournament last weekend. Must have had something to do with the presence of the Columbus Blue Jackets. With 30 blocked shots, Duclair is third among Ottawa forwards in this Duclair scored a hat trick against his former team on Dec. 14 – three blue-collar category, behind only Pageau and Namestnikov. goals on three shots, including the overtime winner. Smith has said he trusts Duclair enough to continue to use him on a night Duclair’s hot-and-cold spells are a small part of the story when it comes when he’s struggling, so he can work himself out of it. Smith went so far to the Senators decision on what to do about Duclair as the trade as to say Duclair is becoming a “core player” in the room. deadline approaches. Duclair is just 24 – turning 25 in August — and eligible to become an RFA in the summer. This is where it gets interesting. How much a part of that core will Duclair be down the road, when presumably Ottawa has a lot more talent, based Despite his slump, he still leads his team in goals (21) and points (33). on prospects in Belleville and from this year’s draft, which includes two Jean-Gabriel Pageau, the Senators’ top trade asset as the deadline potential lottery picks for the Sens? approaches, is just behind Duclair with 20 goals and 32 points. For Dorion, the beauty of the Duclair situation is that there isn’t the There will be interest in Duclair, too, at the deadline, and the Senators urgency on this file there is on his myriad UFAs as the deadline should at least listen to offers for this speedy winger who is on his fifth approaches. NHL team and hasn’t enjoyed a 20-goal season like this since his rookie year with Arizona in 2015-16. He had 20 goals and 44 points in 81 If someone knocks his socks off with an offer for Duclair, Dorion can games for the Coyotes, production he didn’t experience again until listen. joining Ottawa at last year’s deadline in a trade for Senators winger Ryan If not, he can afford to wait until after the season to sort out a contract for Dzingel and a seventh-round pick. Ottawa also picked up second-round a player working hard to earn one. draft picks from Columbus, in 2020 and 2021, which has made this a sweet deal indeed. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 Add in the eight goals in 21 games he scored for the Senators after the trade and Duclair has a total of 29 goals in 70 Ottawa games.

Duclair came to Ottawa motivated. He realized his career was on the line when he was traded out of Columbus not long after head coach John Tortorella’s comments that “I don’t think he knows how to play . . . he thinks he can do whatever the hell he wants on the ice.” There was also a reference to Duclair being “off the rails.”

Every young player should get a chance to learn from his mistakes, and Duclair has so far shown himself to be very coach-able. Clearly he wants to stay here for a while. From the All-Star Game in St. Louis, Duclair told reporters that as a young player, he sees himself as part of the club’s rebuild.

“When Ottawa’s going to become a contender, I want to be part of that,” Duclair said. “So I’m working as hard as I can.”

There are bound to be skeptics on Duclair, considering how he has packed up and moved from the New York Rangers, the Coyotes, Chicago Blackhawks and Blue Jackets to his current destination of the Nation’s Capital. If he played in an earlier era his nickname might be 1173607 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Love of golf unites Maple Leafs at Augusta National during unique trip

Chris Johnston | January 29, 2020, 1:21 PM

DALLAS — If Jordan Spieth could take Frederik Andersen’s score from No. 12 at Augusta National, he’d have another green jacket in his closet.

Spieth arrived at the iconic par-3 in the middle of Amen Corner with the lead on the final day of the 2016 Masters and dumped two balls into Rae’s Creek. He never recovered.

When Andersen reached that tee during a once-in-a-lifetime experience with three Toronto Maple Leafs teammates last week, he knocked his approach on the green … and rolled in the birdie.

“I made a fairly good putt,” said Andersen.

That was the highlight of the two days the Leafs goalie/resident golf nut spent playing at Augusta. During his first trip through Amen Corner, he saw teammate Kasperi Kapanen hit an approach to three feet at No. 12 — known as one of the more intimidating shots on the course.

“I think the group that went, we’ll probably be pretty obnoxious to watch the Masters with once we get there [in April],” said Andersen. “That’s definitely some fun memories. Just the whole experience, I think seeing how pristine the whole course is at this time of year even, yeah, it was pretty amazing.”

Augusta is one of the most exclusive courses in the world, even for well- heeled professional athletes. You can’t buy your way on. Instead, you need to be invited as a personal guest of one of the roughly 300 members at the club.

The Leafs invitation was secured by William Nylander, who didn’t initially understand how valuable it was.

“Just a guy that I know threw it out there that we could maybe go play sometime,” said Nylander. “I didn’t realize how special it was to play there at the time and then when I started talking to the boys I found out how special it was.

“We got on there real quick.”

Nylander opted to bring his regular Leafs foursome: Andersen, Kapanen and Jake Muzzin.

None of the players disclosed what they shot, but Muzzin posted the best round among the group.

“Muzz had a good [score],” said Andersen. “He played well. He’s a little bit better than the rest of us.”

“I knew it was going to be hard and I knew I was going to shoot around … I don’t even want to tell you guys what I shot around,” said Kapanen. “It’s just amazing that we got to experience that.”

The Leafs players scoped out some of the great shots they’ve seen on TV from the Masters over the years. They walked over to the area behind the 16th green where Tiger Woods famously chipped in to win the tournament in 2005. And Andersen was impressed with the conservative way Woods played the tough 18th hole during his victory last year, noting that it’s not one where you can make an easy par.

Golf is a favourite pastime for a number of Leafs.

Before doing a media scrum in Nashville on Sunday, Muzzin asked reporters for an update on who’d won the Farmers Insurance Open event on the PGA Tour. And Auston Matthews listed his first ever sub-80 round as his personal highlight from last summer.

Nylander loved Augusta National so much that he ended up extending his trip an extra day to play it for a third time, getting rewarded with a round where he made three birdies.

“I was hitting the ball pretty good that day,” he said. “Now it’ll be fun watching the tournament when they’re playing it. It’ll be pretty cool.”

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173608 Websites nagging injuries, and for some guys it’s getting a day off and then being fresh the next day because that day off helps whatever the nagging injury is, it helps them heal a little bit. We’re just trying to get through these situations that every team goes through, so that’s where we’re at. And Sportsnet.ca / Canadiens hit by flu bug just as return to full health on unfortunately, we’re in a desperate situation where you cross your fingers horizon that everybody’s going to be ready to go.”

Gallagher said Tuesday that he can’t wait to see what the Canadiens look like at full health. Eric Engels | January 29, 2020, 1:11 PM “It’s been a while since we’ve really been healthy all together,” he said.

“It’s a hard situation here. We need all the bodies we can get. So BROSSARD, Que. — Dale Weise stood at his dressing room stall with a hopefully Jo’s getting closer and closer, the sick guys get healthy and look of disbelief on his face. then we can see what we’re capable of. Obviously, on paper, it looks like “It’s crazy,” he said. you could be a special group, but it’s just on paper. I think you got to see results. For us, I think you put that pressure on ourselves to go out there Weise was referring to how close the Montreal Canadiens are to getting and get the job done and prove everyone right who’s saying that.” Brendan Gallagher back from a concussion for just his second game since December ended, how close they are to having Jonathan Drouin It’s something the 24-year-old Drouin said he’s hoping to do in short back from a wrist surgery that’s sidelined him since Nov. 16, how Paul order, but the swelling around his injury was plain to see Tuesday, and Byron isn’t far behind in his rehab from a knee surgery that’s kept him out he said there’s still plenty of stiffness and soreness he’s trying to get over for the same period and how the flu bug is now working its way through in order to be game-ready. the rest of the roster. A look at Jonathan Drouin’s surgically repaired left wrist. He says Phillip Danault said Tuesday that he might be coming down with it, but he there’s still soreness and swelling there but that he’s progressing well still skated over the last two days. Max Domi and Artturi Lehkonen and feeling good. pic.twitter.com/FolSOnTvM8 started feeling the effects of it during Monday’s 4-2 loss to the — Eric Engels (@EricEngels) January 28, 2020 Washington Capitals and missed practice Tuesday and Wednesday. For now, Drouin can only continue to watch. It’s a helpless position to be All three players will travel with the Canadiens to Buffalo for Thursday’s in, one that he hasn’t been particularly comfortable with as the game against the Sabres, but neither Domi nor Lehkonen is guaranteed Canadiens have spiralled down the standings without him. to dress. “It’s easy to watch the hockey on TV and say you could make that play Nate Thompson and Shea Weber missed Wednesday’s practice and there,” Drouin said. “But as long as you’re not on the ice and you’re not opted for treatments instead, just like Marco Scandella did on Tuesday — feeling what the game is like, it’s hard to really comment and say we lost in an attempt to give a nagging lower-body injury some rest. this game because of this or that. It’s really hard when you’re sitting out They’re all expected to play the Sabres, as is Gallagher — provided he and you’re not on the ice, you don’t really contribute to anything. You doesn’t feel any differently Thursday than he does Wednesday. don’t have a say or an action you could do to make a difference.

But Drouin has been ruled out, with Canadiens coach Claude Julien “We had some streaks where we lost a lot of games and it’s hard to sit saying when he returns is essentially up to him now. there and watch and not be able to do anything. But we got to come back to just the way we were playing. Skating and playing well and not sitting “I don’t know where he is right now (in his rehab),” Julien said of Drouin, back.” who was a full participant in practice Wednesday for just the second time since suffering his injury. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020

“Again, he’s healed but now it’s about how comfortable is he and whether he can tolerate the pain and where he’s restricted and all that stuff. A lot of it now is in his court, because the injury has healed. But there’s some stiffness, there’s a lot of different things. So that’s where we’re at with him, so I can’t give you a time for him to come back. I think a lot of it will depend on him.”

Meanwhile, Drouin’s teammates, much like fans of the Canadiens, are anxious to see him back in uniform.

With Ilya Kovalchuk in the fold and rookie Nick Suzuki emerging as a budding talent in the absence of several key players, the Canadiens have been contemplating what their team will look like with everyone healthy.

Goaltender Carey Price has been building out potential line combinations as much as anyone in Montreal.

“I think we have those three players (Gallagher, Drouin and Byron) back, we’re looking pretty sharp,” he said before cautioning, “It’s going to take time to get everybody’s mojo back. It’s not instantaneous that you’re going to be awesome, but it’s definitely going to be a big boost for our squad.”

At this stage, the Canadiens need more than a boost.

They’re 10 points out of a playoff spot and running out of road to narrow the gap in the race with 31 games remaining on their season.

They were hoping for good news to not be accompanied by bad news, but this is the hand they’ve been dealt.

“It’s unfortunate in the situation that we’re in,” said Julien when he was asked about key players being so close to playing while others suddenly being questionable with the flu.

“You wish everybody was healthy, but this time a year, year after year, you’re dealing with those flu bugs. You’re dealing with little injuries and 1173609 Websites The Oilers get outshot from the perimeter, but when you’re on special teams and control the slot, who cares? The only hitch they have on special teams is being outplayed on cycle chances, and that is a little troubling since their best asset is controlling slot passes. The Oilers’ Sportsnet.ca / Battle of Alberta: What would an Oilers-Flames playoff issue off the cycle isn’t giving up a bunch of chances, but generating series look like? them, meaning all those excellent slot passes aren’t turning into shot attempts, which is a lot of good work wasted.

The thing is, the Oilers have the top power play in the league with a Andrew Berkshire nearly 30 per cent conversion rate on the season, so if they’re not turning those slot passes into shot attempts at the moment, that just makes the potential of starting to connect on those plays even scarier. Is there anyone better at igniting rivalries in the NHL right now than Matthew Tkachuk? The Flames aren’t as strong as the Oilers have been on special teams, especially from the inner slot where they’ve been giving up too many Thanks to his antics and borderline hits, Zack Kassian’s crazy response shots, but overall they’re not bad, except for off the forecheck where and the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames both being within reach of they’ve been very vulnerable. the playoffs, the Battle of Alberta seems to be close to a rolling boil. Even better than the regular-season rivalry looking more intense is that, as What they don’t have is a big advantage in the passing game. The Oilers things currently sit in the Pacific Division, the Oilers and Flames would and Flames give up about the same number of slot-passes against on face each other in the first round of the playoffs if they started today. special teams, but the Oilers outpace the Flames drastically on offence in that category. The Pacific’s standings are highly volatile at the moment, so there’s absolutely zero guarantee that the two teams will even make the playoffs, Without the pre-shot movement that the Oilers enjoy, the Flames haven’t let alone face off against each other in the first round, but if they do it will had nearly as deadly a power play. be the first time since 1991. The more special teams play between the two teams, the more the The hype for that series would be unbelievably high, but how would it advantage would shift to the Oilers, but the Flames are the drastically shake out? Based on the whole season’s statistics so far, looking at the superior even-strength team. data I dug up in mid-January to break down the Pacific Division race, the Playoff hockey usually sees fewer calls overall, but I think it’s safe to say Flames would have a decided advantage in a multitude of areas at 5-vs- the mayhem of the last game between these two teams might produce 5, but how representative is the entire season? some penalty-filled affairs, so the outcome is far less predictable than it The Oilers went on a rough run for a stretch, but seemed to turn things might look on paper. around before the All-Star break, while the Flames were a total mess to The Flames do have one more advantage over the Oilers, though. Dave start the season, but have been much better since they were forced to Rittich and Cam Talbot have simply been much better than Mikko make a coaching change. Koskinen and Mike Smith, especially lately. Smith has been solid of late, Looking at how each team is playing recently might give us a better idea but Talbot has been brilliant, and I have much more confidence in of who would hold the advantage if a series started today, so let’s start Calgary’s duo in a seven-game series. things clean at the start of 2020 and see how it all shakes out. We should all hope we get to see how this one plays out though, At 5-vs-5, the Oilers’ run of strong play doesn’t actually look very good. because it might be the most entertaining series the 2020 playoffs could Granted, they are much better than the season-long statistics would give us. suggest, but overall they don’t look like a strong team. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 01.30.2020 Defensively, the Oilers aren’t giving much up at even strength at all, but they’re not generating much either. The biggest improvement Edmonton has made defensively has been in cutting down chances against the forecheck. The team has given up a league-low six since the calendar shifted to 2020, whereas the league average is 22. That’s fewer than one allowed per game, which is pretty impressive.

The Oilers are also giving up the fourth-fewest cycle-chances against per game, and the second-fewest chances against overall, though that defensive improvement hasn’t been coupled with an increase in offence. But, like I wrote when the Oilers played this way earlier in the season, the tightly contested, low-event style favours the team with two of the best game-breakers in the sport.

The Oilers are by no means a powerhouse, but if they can play this tight a defensive game at even strength, they should be able to continue squeaking out wins down the stretch.

The Flames, meanwhile, aren’t as red hot as they were right after the coaching change, but they’ve at least played opponents evenly or better in most areas. The one place they’re highly exploitable is off the rush, where they aren’t generating many chances at all, while giving up a ton.

That area of the game is what got them unceremoniously bounced in last season’s playoffs, and despite the Oilers actually being even worse than the Flames in that area recently, those aforementioned superstars named Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl happen to be two of the most dangerous players in the league off the rush.

Overall, the advantage at even strength should go to the Flames, but let’s go beyond that and look at special teams as well.

The tiny sample of rush chances on special teams wildly disrupts this chart, but the important thing to notice here is that the Oilers are much better from the slot area on special teams than they are at even strength, and thing are even better when it comes to controlling slot passes. 1173610 Websites Jason Spezza is doing his part to keep the rookie grounded. The pair went over some video today specifically an incorrect read by the kid on the power play.

TSN.CA / Toronto Maple Leafs D Rasmus Sandin’s comfort level rising "He was wide open for a one-timer so he was just telling me to pass him fast the puck," Sandin said with a laugh.

"I was giving him a hard time," Spezza said with a grin. "I said I talked yesterday about how good his hockey sense was and on the clip I'm Mark Masters waving for the puck and he looked me off, so can't be that good."

'Nothing really shakes him': Leafs expect Sandin can become 'dominant defensively' TSN Toronto reporter Mark Masters checks in daily with news and notes on the Maple Leafs. The Leafs and Stars held optional skates at Rasmus Sandin discusses his comfort level since being recalled by the American Airlines Center on Wednesday. Leafs in mid-January, while Auston Matthews and Sheldon Keefe praise the young defenceman's poise. Keefe goes on to explain why he feels It was just one year and seven months ago that Rasmus Sandin travelled Sandin can become "dominant defensively" as he continues to develop. to Dallas for the NHL draft, getting picked 29th overall by the Maple Leafs. It's also a big night for Spezza who returns to Dallas where he spent the previous five seasons. The Stars are planning a video tribute in the first "A lot of joy," he recalled. "I was here with my family, a couple friends too. period. It was an unreal experience. That's the first step you take towards the NHL and a big dream that you have since you start playing hockey so a "I didn't really think about it much, but it doesn't hurt to see yourself lot of good memories from that. It's fun to be back." scoring a few goals when you’re playing a game," Spezza said. "I really enjoyed it here in Dallas." Sandin admits he wasn't sure he could make the jump to the NHL this quickly, but the 19-year-old defenceman from Sweden is quickly proving Among his top memories are playoff round wins over Nashville and this is where he belongs. Minnesota as well as seeing close friend Jamie Benn win the scoring title. Spezza and Benn met up yesterday. "He's just so poised, nothing really shakes him," gushed Auston Matthews. "Every time he has the puck he makes a smart play. It doesn't "It's almost one of those things where you don't want dinner to end," matter if there's a guy trying to run him over, he'll make a beautiful play Spezza said. "We just had a great bond right from Day 1. He's become and then just step out of the way. He’s just so smart, skates well, just a one of my best buddies in the game." dynamic player." "A great teammate," Benn said. "One of the best guys I've played with "Right now the intelligence he has with and without the puck is allowing over my career. We spent some good times together and looking forward him to succeed," observed coach Sheldon Keefe, "but we think where to playing him tonight. Just a good guy overall. He cares about every he'll take a step is being more comfortable and eventually, we think, single player in that dressing room. He's a good family guy and good dominant defensively in terms of his footwork and his skating and his person overall." strength, when that gets up to where his brain is at." Stars players marvel at how Spezza, a father of four, continues to be a Sandin scored his first NHL goal in Monday's win in Nashville, also student of the game even at this stage of his career. Tyler Seguin picking up a beauty assist on a goal by summer training partner William describes Spezza as a "hockey nerd through and through." Nylander. He's now up to six points in 10 NHL games. "Any time I wanted to talk hockey he's a guy I went to," Seguin said. "A Sandin also impressed the Leafs during training camp, earning a six- little strange talking to him yesterday. He seems to be loving Toronto, game audition in October. After dominating the World Juniors, Sandin and it’s been great for his family and stuff. So, hopefully I don't have to now looks like he's here to stay. There's a belief, now, that this is where take too many faceoffs against him tonight." he belongs. The game has slowed down a bit. That quote brought a smile to Spezza's face. "I think that has a lot to do with how comfortable I am," Sandin said. "You always have a little more time than maybe you think so just trying to stay "We spent a lot of time working on draws," the 36-year-old said. "He's calm out there." gotten really good at them and that’s actually a sense of pride for me because we worked so much on it and he's one of the best right-handed Sandin didn't feel as comfortable in his initial NHL taste. draw guys in the league now."

"Maybe one or two of those first games I felt comfortable 100 per cent The Stars rank fourth in faceoff percentage, with Seguin leading the way and now, the second call-up, pretty much every game so far I think I've at 59 per cent. been comfortable. Just knowing the guys and knowing the league helps, so I feel comfortable." "I don't take as many draws as I used to and I'm not sure how many shifts I'll have against Seggy tonight, but it's good it’s in the back of his In the last game before getting sent down in October, Sandin was mind, I guess," Spezza said with a chuckle. levelled by a big Justin Abdelkader hit in Detroit. Mike Babcock, then the Leafs coach, expressed concern that the 5-foot-11, 183-pound teenager 'Hockey nerd' Spezza takes pride in how Stars' Seguin emerged at the would be targeted by bigger and stronger players. dot

"I'm not too concerned," Keefe said. "With the way that he sees the game After spending lots of time helping Tyler Seguin improve his face-off and the way he uses his body, his positioning allows him to roll off those game in Dallas, Jason Spezza discusses the sense of pride he has type of things, typically. Every now and then you're going to get caught, seeing his former teammate's emergence in the circle. Meanwhile, but I don’t see it being a trend." Seguin and Jamie Benn praise Spezza's hockey knowledge and explain how much they enjoyed playing with him in Dallas. Sandin favouring his jaw after Abdelkader catches him high pic.twitter.com/p0CIO8VM8W Tonight's game will be another test of Toronto's maturity. Can the young Leafs stick with their game plan against the stingiest team in the NHL? — Flintor (@TheFlintor) October 13, 2019 The Stars allow just 2.45 goals per game.

Sandin isn't too worried either. In fact, he seems more concerned with "They do a good job of making it hard to enter their zone with sorting through the messages that flooded his phone on Monday night possession," Spezza noted, "and then [Ben] Bishop plays it really well, so after his breakthrough moment. it's hard a forecheck on them. They also have a veteran team that's savvy and knows how to lock down games." "I think I got a couple from my teachers from when I was eight or nine or something like that, so that was fun to get," he said. "I don't know if I want On Monday, the Stars managed to keep Tampa Bay's high-octane attack to go on social media now. Today, I think my phone would be blowing up in check during a 3-2 overtime win. even more." "We don't score a whole bunch and we're not worried about that," said Benn, who potted a pair, including the overtime winner against the Lightning. "We enjoy playing good team defence and, in the end, that’s what wins hockey games. We learned how to win later in the year last year and it’s kind of stuck with us this year."

Seguin leads Dallas in scoring with 37 points, which puts him on pace for 62 points. That would be Seguin's lowest total in a full 82-game season since his rookie campaign in Boston.

"Definitely a mindset change," Seguin said. "The thinking of a good game has changed, personally. In the past it had always been goals, assists, statistics and now it’s a lot more faceoffs, the chances you're on the ice for, how much you're giving up when you're on the ice. You still love scoring goals and producing, but you realize that you love winning a lot more."

Seguin and the Stars learned the hard way.

"We're a team, an organization that wanted to be offensive," Seguin said. "We tried that in the past. We tried to outscore teams, you know, in my career here and it just doesn’t work."

The Leafs are tied with the Panthers for most goals scored this season.

Seguin on Stars' mindset change: 'Still love scoring goals...but you love winning more'

With a commitment to defence this year paying dividends for Stars, Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn explain how the entire team is embracing the new defensive philosophy that has led to positive results in the win column.

Roope Hintz and Andrew Cogliano left Monday's game due to injury. Hintz is out tonight while Cogliano is questionable.

Projected Leafs lines for tonight's game:

Hyman - Matthews - Marner

Kerfoot - Tavares - Nylander

Johnsson - Engvall - Kapanen

Moore - Gauthier - Spezza

Muzzin - Holl

Dermott - Barrie

Sandin - Ceci

Andersen starts

Hutchinson

TSN.CA LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173611 Websites Miller-Pettersson-Virtanen Pearson-Horvat-Eriksson

Roussel-Gaudette-Boeser TSN.CA / Canucks @ Sharks Gameday Preview Motte-Beagle-Sutter

Hughes-Tanev Jeff Paterson Edler-Stecher

Fantenberg-Myers SAN JOSE – The Vancouver Canucks (28-18-4) kick off a five-game road trip tonight when they visit the San Jose Sharks (22-25-4) at SAP Markstrom Center in the Bay Area. The Canucks have won three straight, five of six and 12 of their past 15 games to climb to the top of the Pacific Division. POSSIBLE SHARKS LINE-UP

The Canucks started out of the All Star break with a 3-1 victory over the Kane-Hertl-Meier defending Stanley Cup champion St. Louis Blues on Monday night. JT Goodrow-Thornton-Labanc Miller scored twice and Bo Horvat sealed the victory into an empty net while Thatcher Demko made 36 saves in his second straight start in goal. Sorensen-Gambrell-Marleau As a team, the Canucks have surrendered just one goal in each of their last three games (wins vs Arizona, San Jose and St. Louis). M. Karlsson-Kellman-Noesen

Jacob Markstrom returns to the net for the first time since a January 16th Dillon-Burns victory over Arizona. He has won three of his last four starts and nine of Vlasic-E. Karlsson his last 11. Aside from their starting goaltender, the Canucks will make no other line-up changes for tonight’s game. Simek-Ferraro

Miller has three goals in his past two games while Horvat has five goals Jones in his last six outings and 7+8=15 in his last 11 contests. Jake Virtanen has had back to back two assist games and has 1+4=5 in his last three TSN.CA LOADED: 01.30.2020 games. Loui Eriksson has points (1+2=3) in three straight games for the first time this season.

Elias Pettersson leads the Canucks with 21 goals and 52 points and has been a point a game player over his past seven games, but has scored just once (at Minnesota on January 12th) in that span. He’s gone four without a goal. Brock Boeser has now gone five games without a point since scoring a pair of goals in Buffalo on January 11th.

On their 15 game run of success, the Canucks have outscored their opponents 23-11 in third periods. In a dozen games since Christmas, the Canucks have the same number of empty net goals and power play goals (6). While the team has found various ways to win recently, the power play has not been the driving force it was earlier in the season. The Canucks are 3 for 34 (8.8%) in their last nine outings. Their penalty kill, on the other hand, has been perfect in the past three games and is 13 of 14 (92.9%) in the past five games.

The Sharks snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-2 win over Anaheim on Monday night. Patrick Marleau and Stefan Noesen each scored twice and Aaron Dell made 26 saves. North Vancouver native Martin Jones will get the start in goal tonight. Jones has started just two games in January and has one victory in 10 starts since the beginning of December.

Goaltending has been an issue for San Jose as the Sharks are the only team in the NHL with a 5-on-5 save percentage below 90% this season. Theirs is at 89.7%. On the season, the Sharks have surrendered the most goals in the Western Conference and the third most goals in the league (168).

Offensively, Erik Karlsson leads the Sharks in scoring with 5+32=37 and has nine points in his last nine games. Evander Kane leads the club with 19 goals including 10 on the power play. Kane also leads the league in penalty minutes sitting on 100 for the season. Along with Barclay Goodrow and Brenden Dillon, the Sharks have three of the top six penalty minute leaders in the league. As a team, only the New York Rangers have been more penalized than San Jose this season.

Since Bob Boughner replaced Peter DeBoer behind the Sharks bench in mid-December the club is 7-9-2. Despite the club’s overall struggles this season, San Jose has won four straight at home outscoring opponents 15-5 during that time and is 4-0-1 in its last five at The Tank.

The Canucks have defeated the Sharks in two of their three meetings so far this season and have split their two games in the Bay Area. The Canucks beat San Jose 4-1 on January 18th at Rogers Arena in the final game for both teams ahead of the All-Star break. Thatcher Demko has been in goal for both Canucks victories while Aaron Dell has tended the net for all three games for the Sharks.

POSSIBLE CANUCKS LINE-UP 1173612 Websites Stanley Cup winner Lemieux who has the rare ability to impact the opponent’s net as much as their psyche.

Kassian’s rage to get his pound of flesh on Jan. 11 not only cost the TSN.CA / Claude Lemieux weighs in on Matthew Tkachuk, renewed Oilers in a four-point game in the razor-close Pacific standings, it also Battle of Alberta cost him $20,967.74 in forfeited salary.

That penchant Tkachuk has for making rivals go wild is something that makes Lemieux smile. Frank Seravalli “He’s a great player and he’s effective,” Lemieux said. “If you’re going to build a team, he’s going to be one of the first players you pick. He does more than score goals – a hit or something after the whistle. He can What would Claude Lemieux do? definitely stir the pot like I did. That is the question with the hockey world’s eyes glued to the renewed “I have a lot of respect for the way he plays.” Battle of Alberta and Matthew Tkachuk, a player cut from the same cloth as one of the sport’s most notorious agitators. Lemieux made sure to point out that he also respects Kassian because “he’s not just an enforcer, he’s a good hockey player.” Kassian, 29, is just “Do I think he needs to go out and fight that player? Maybe,” Lemieux shy of setting new career highs in goals (13) and points (28) in just the said on Wednesday morning, pausing to chat while on vacation. first half of the season, often playing on a line with McDavid. “Sometimes it’s better to get it over with.” That’s part of what makes this week so juicy. Not only is it a hugely This is a lower-case battle, better referred to as an Alberta Beef, when consequential divisional game in the standings, it also features two compared to the blood spilled and faces broken during the mid-90s wars compelling combatants in Tkachuk and Kassian. between Lemieux’s Colorado Avalanche and the Detroit Red Wings. The fact that we get two meetings in a span of four days doesn’t hurt, The only things similar are the modus operandi of the agitator involved either. and the buzzwords being thrown around. Get your popcorn ready. Lemieux listened to months of criticism and heckling for “turtling” in a retaliatory brawl with Darren McCarty in response to his jaw-shattering hit “These are two teams with a long history,” Lemieux said. “Sometimes from behind on Kris Draper in the 1996 Western Conference Final. people think incidents that cross the line take away from the game itself, but like a good rivalry, I think it’s healthy for hockey. Fans love it. That’s Edmonton has been in a tizzy in the 18 days since Tkachuk ducked for just how it is.” cover on Jan. 11 after taking what former NHL players publicly labeled as three predatory runs at Zack Kassian. The Nielson Show on Edmonton TSN.CA LOADED: 01.30.2020 radio TSN 1260 has been playing a parody “tribute” song about Tkachuk titled He’s a Turtle, written to the tune of Denis Leary’s A--hole.

For Lemieux, there was only one move in the playbook that could both shed that unwanted turtle label and diffuse the drama in 1997.

“In my situation with Detroit, it wasn’t until the following year that I fought McCarty off the opening faceoff that put an end to that,” Lemieux said.

That’s why fans at both ends of Highway 2 are eager to see how Wednesday will shake out.

Rishaug: Wouldn't surprise me if Tkachuk just wants to get this out of the way

TSN's Ryan Rishaug opened up about his recovery from covering the Humboldt Broncos bus tragedy and the path he took to get some help, also a preview of tonight's game between the Oilers and Flames

This is Kassian’s first game back after a two-game suspension for going to town on an unwilling combatant in Tkachuk, whose hits were deemed legal both on the ice and in review.

After Tkachuk played nice on the same Pacific Division team with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl at All-Star Weekend, will he have the same desire as Lemieux to answer the bell against Kassian and be done with it? Will there be any further fireworks? Or is this much ado about nothing?

The NHL has sent Department of Player Safety senior vice-president George Parros and director of officiating Stephen Walkom to Edmonton to serve as a deterrent for any shenanigans. They are expected to again deliver a message to the Oilers and Flames’ staffs to keep their players in line.

Lemieux, now 54 and advising a stable of NHL players as an agent with 4Sports and Entertainment Group, says that because this is such a different era he could see it go either way.

“It’s a tough one,” Lemieux said. “I don’t know if there is an easy answer. I’d go out there and play the game and see what happens. Matthew is a tough kid and sometimes it’s better to get it over with, but it’s not that simple. I can look at it in many different ways.

“I also don’t think there is anything wrong with not fighting, going out there and scoring and helping your team win. He is an important player.”

No player has been in the crosshairs quite like Tkachuk since Lemieux. The straw that stirs the Flames’ drink is the first since the four-time 1173613 Websites

USA TODAY / L.A. Kings honor Kobe Bryant in first sporting event at Staples Center since his death

Mike Brehm

Hockey was being played Wednesday night, but Kobe Bryant's memory was front and center in the first sporting event at Staples Center since the retired Los Angeles Lakers star's death Sunday in a helicopter crash.

The Los Angeles Kings played a touching tribute to Bryant, his daughter Gianna and the other seven victims before their game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

It began with a haunting sound of a basketball being dribbled and a swish, as fans chanted, "Kobe, Kobe."

"Kobe was our friend, our partner, your champion," the announcer said. "He was a competitor. He was fierce. He was human. He was a hero to so many. Most importantly, he was a loving and devoted father.

OVECHKIN'S TRIBUTE:No. 8 wears Kobe Bryant's No. 24 in warm-ups

"Kobe Bryant won five NBA titles, the NBA's most valuable player. He was an 18-time NBA All-Star and winner of two Olympic gold medals. Kobe's greatness will always be defined in his achievements, but his legacy will be defined by the sheer volume of people he has inspired and will continue to inspire for generations to come."

The Kings then held a 24-second moment of silence in which photos of all nine victims were shown on the screen.

The Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers had been scheduled to play Tuesday night at Staples Center, but the NBA postponed the game because the Lakers were "deeply grieving" the loss of Bryant.

The Kings and the Lightning wore the No. 24 on the back of their helmets, and both hockey teams paid tribute to Bryant as they walked into the arena. The Lightning wore Bryant tribute T-shirts and the Kings wore replicas of Bryant's NBA jersey.

"It was a little unorthodox for our dress code, but we walked in with Kobe jerseys and paid our respects in that regard," Kings captain Anze Kopitar told NBC Sports Network before the game. "What he meant to us, he was a champion. He was the ultimate champion. ... He was here to win games and to win championships, and that's the ultimate goal in sports."

USA TODAY LOADED: 01.30.2020 1173614 Websites

USA TODAY / Capitals star Alex Ovechkin honors late Kobe Bryant by donning No. 24 in warm-ups

Jace Evans

Tributes to the late Kobe Bryant, who died Sunday in a helicopter crash at the age of 41, continue to pour in from across the sports world. One of the National Hockey League's biggest stars is the latest to salute the late legend.

Alex Ovechkin – who has donned No. 8 since he broke into the league in 2005 – honored the former Los Angeles Lakers star by wearing Bryant's other number, 24, during warm-ups of the Washington Capitals' game against the Nashville Predators on Wednesday night.

Ovechkin's special No. 24 jersey will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the Kobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, the Capitals announced in a statement.

Ovechkin, 34, had tweeted his condolences Sunday and spoke to the media after the death of Bryant.

"It's hard. He was a legend in the basketball world and the whole world," Ovechkin said. "It's tough. I still can't believe."

The Capitals held an eight-second moment of silence before the game for the nine people who lost their lives in the helicopter crash.

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USA TODAY / Oilers' Zack Kassian, Flames' Matthew Tkachuk satisfy the hype and drop the gloves

Mike Brehm

The hype heading into Wednesday night's Calgary Flames-Edmonton Oilers game was about whether Zack Kassian and Matthew Tkachuk would fight again after their Jan. 11 dust-up, but both said beforehand that they were more interested in a victory than any retribution.

NHL disciplinarian George Parros was in the building in Edmonton to make sure things didn't get out of hand. The coaches didn't start the players' respective lines, Flames interim coach Geoff Ward had rugged forward Milan Lucic skating on Tkachuk's line and the Oilers finalized Kassian's four-year, $12.8 million contract extension before the game.

So of course, the two of them fought.

It took until 3:26 remained in the first period, but both were lined next to each other on a faceoff and began yapping. As soon as the puck dropped, the two went at it.

In their last game, Tkachuk didn't fight back after Kassian objected to a couple big hits against him, and the Oilers forward got a two-game suspension. The two traded insults via the media after the game.

This time, Tkachuk did try to fight, but it was over pretty quickly with a decisive win by Kassian. But the Flames All-Star did satisfy an unwritten hockey code by dropping the gloves.

But Tkachuk's team got the upper hand where it mattered most, winning 4-3 in a shootout to go two points up on the Oilers in the Pacific Division standings.

The teams will play again Saturday in the latest installment of the Battle of Alberta.

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