Swiss Hockey Players Making The News

For the past few months Swiss hockey news focused on North American players in the Swiss NLA. Now that the the lockout is over, let’s focus some attention on Swiss players playing in the NHL.

Damien Brunner

Damien Brunner

Brunner was a relative unknown to hockey fans until debuting in a Red Wings jersey only days ago. Despite being unknown in North America, Brunner was a household name among Swiss hockey fans, registering over a point-a-game for EV Zug in the NLA for the past three seasons and totalling 58,46 and 60 points in the regular season during that time.

The Swiss forward was originally scouted by the Minnesota Wild but eventually signed for the Red Wings on July 1, 2012 and returned to EV Zug, playing alongside Detroit team-mate Henrik Zetterberg during the NHL lockout months.

Brunner is on a current scoring run of 2 goals in 2 games, finding some confidence after failing to register a point in his first two NHL games. Despite being only 5’11 and 180 pounds, Brunner is a speedy forward with a knack for getting the puck in the back of the net, already becoming a regular among the Red Wings’ top 6.

Brunner has also been making headlines throughout the league following this Datsyuk-like penalty shot, scored past Columbus goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky:

Nino Niederreiter

(Icon SMI)

El Nino, who became the highest ever overall Swiss player drafted into the NHL when he was picked 5th in the 2010 Entry Draft, is making headlines not through his great play in the AHL but for putting NHL teams on trade alert after allegedly asking Islanders GM Garth Snow for a transfer after not being invited to training camp following the lockout.

The forwards’ anger has some merit as he already played 55 games for the Islanders last season, though only registering 2 goals and 1 assist during that time. Not being invited to training camp must have been unexpected for the player who was highly touted as a junior, scoring 70 points for the Portland Winterhawks in the 2010/11 season.

In response to being questioned about Niederreiter’s transfer request, Islanders GM Garth Snow told Newsday;

“All conversations with players remain private, but I will say that Nino has never told me that he’s unhappy”

Nino is still currently active for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers and is the current team top scorer with 36 points in 41 games so far this season.

Sven Bärtschi

The 20 year-old former Portland Winterhawk made headlines in Alberta by being named in the 23 man squad to start the 2013 NHL season, after having never played an AHL game and only 5 NHL games in 2011/12.

Bärtschi, who is looking like a second-coming of fellow Swiss player Nino Niederreiter, was also picked in the first round of the Entry Draft, at 13th overall in 2011 by the Calgary Flames. Though having not registered a point in his first 4 Calgary games, Bärtschi has been receiving praise for his work ethic and ability to find the puck.

Despite his relatively small 5’11, 187 pound frame, Bärtschi will continue to grow and much will be expected of the Swiss winger playing on an under-performing Calgary team, especially following his 128 point season for the Portland Winterhawks.

Roman Josi

Playing alongside a star defenceman such as Shea Weber is no easy task but Josi is making the most of his opportunity on the Nashville blueline. The 22 year-old former SC Bern player enjoyed a successful spell with his first North American team, the AHL Milwaukee Admirals, two years after being drafted by the Predators at 28th overall in 2008.

Josi became an NHL regular in 2011/12, playing 62 games for Nashville, including 10 playoff games. During this time he scored 5 goals and registered 11 assists from the blueline.

Josi has featured in all five Predators games so far this season, averaging ice-time of 25.54 minutes. Currently on the final year of his entry-level contract, the young Swiss player will be expected to be in line for a pay-rise from his current $1 million deal.

Raphael Diaz

(Cliff Welch/Icon SMI)

Montreal defenceman Diaz was never drafted into the NHL and signed for the Canadiens on May 13, 2011 for a cap hit of only $900,000. After playing 59 games and registering 16 points in his first NHL season, Diaz was promptly offered a new 2 year, $1.225 million per season deal.

After being a steady defenceman for EV Zug since 2003/4, the breakthrough for Diaz came in 2009/10 when he more than doubled his previous best points tally, improving this again in 2010/11, impressing Montreal scouts with his offensive ability in the process.

Diaz now looks to be an important member of the Canadiens’ blueline going forward, already managing to find a place in the Montreal top 4. He also participated in the 2012 NHL All-Star game as a rookie, replacing the injured Adam Larsson in the Challenge Relay.

Besides the Swiss players above, both Islanders captain Mark Streit and Ducks goaltender Jonas Hiller remain important members of their respective teams.

Streit, known as an elite defenceman when healthy, continues to be a scoring threat from the Islanders blueline, having never registered below 36 points since joining the NHL from the ZSC Lions in 2005/6.

Jonas Hiller is firmly set as the Anaheim first choice goaltender, playing a huge 73 games last season, finishing the campaign with a save percentage of .910 and a 2.57 goals against average.

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Daniel SchöpfAdmirer of the NHL, Canucks and the Swiss NLA. Feel free to follow me on Twitter: @HockeyWestTwitter

This article was originally published at: The Hockey Writers.

THW NHL Power Rankings: Week 2

The first full week of NHL play is in the books and a few teams have risen to the top as the NHL’s best in this week’s rankings. However, outside of the top few spots, parity reigns supreme as supposedly good teams still continue to struggle through one week. The more games that are played, the better informed me shall be about who really is a contender this season.

Be sure to check back every Monday for updated Power Rankings!

 

30. Florida Panthers (1-4-0)

Last Week's Ranking: 10

This Week's Schedule: @Tampa Bay, Winnipeg, @Buffalo

Breakdown: Since their 5-1 opening night victory over the Carolina  Hurricanes, the Panthers have been outscored 18-3 and have looked terrible on the ice during every game. Injuries to key players like Kris Versteeg, Erik Gudbranson and Marcel Goc have crippled the Panthers thus far, but they must learn to win without these players, or face becoming irrelevant early on this season.

29. Phoenix Coyotes (1-4-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 27

This Week’s Schedule: Nashville, Edmonton, Dallas, @Dallas

Breakdown: The Coyotes are off to a rough start and as the Pacific Division continues to improve around them, the Yotes will have to figure things out fast before  falling too far behind the Sharks, Ducks and Stars. Starting goaltender Mike Smith is currently nursing an injury, but was  laughable before being sidelined, giving up 10 goals in the team's  first two games. Smith will need to return to form and stay healthy if  the Coyotes hope to be competitive this season.

 

28. Washington Capitals (1-3-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 20

This Week’s Schedule: @Ottawa, @Toronto, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh

Breakdown: The Washington Capitals were able to get their first win under new coach Adam Oates on Sunday, but still look like anything but contenders this season. Goalie Braden Holtby has a 5.04 GAA through 2 games and could have already lost his starting job in favor of Michal Neuvirth. Supposed superstar Alexander Ovechkin has only 1 goal through the team's first 5 games and will need to play like his old self if the Capitals hope to win games.

 

27. Columbus Blue Jackets (1-3-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 16

This Week’s Schedule: Dallas, @Minnesota, St. Louis, Detroit

Breakdown: After starting off the season hot, the Blue Jackets have dropped 3 straight games and look more like the rebuilding team that we were expecting to see this year. While the Blue Jackets have been competitive every night, their young roster still isn’t where it needs to be, but may be developing ahead of schedule. The team's penalty kill currently sits at an astounding 90% and Sergei Bobrovsky has been solid in net for the team thus far. While the Blue Jackets most likely won't contend, they also won't be a pushover every game.

 

26. Calgary Flames (1-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 29

This Week’s Schedule:  Colorado, Chicago

Breakdown: The Flames were able to capture their first victory of the season Sunday against their rivals, the Edmonton Oilers. The Flames' impressive power play has kept them in a few games as they have been converting  on 29.4% of their opportunities. Highly touted rookie Sven Baertschi has yet to record a point, but that could change soon as he continues to adapt to the NHL. While the Flames are still not where they want to be, the return of Jiri Hudler from injury should give them a boost.

 

25. Los Angeles Kings (1-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 22

This Week’s Schedule: Vancouver, Nashville, @Anaheim

Breakdown: A trip to play the Phoenix Coyotes was just what the Los Angeles Kings needed to get their first win of the season and ease their Stanley Cup hangover. The team's offense is currently in disarray,  but the recent return of Anze Kopitar should help, most notably on their power play ' which currently sits at a 0% conversion rate. Goaltender Jonathan Quick has also been struggling and is currently allowing 3 goals per game – possibly trading backup Jonathan Bernier for some defensive help would greatly benefit Quick this season.

 

24. Philadelphia Flyers (2-4-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 24

This Week’s Schedule: @NY Rangers, @Washington, Carolina

Breakdown: After beating up on the hapless Florida Panthers 7-1, the  Philadelphia Flyers got a taste of their own medicine in a 5-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning the following night. The Flyers continue to be questionable as they have yet to put together back to back quality games this season. Surprisingly, goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov has been the team's MVP thus far, posting a 2.22 GAA and .923 SV%.

 

23. Toronto Maple Leafs (2-3-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 15

This Week’s Schedule: @Buffalo, Washington, Boston

Breakdown: The Maple Leafs' goaltending and defense continue to be sub-par as they are currently allowing 3.4 goals per game. The emergence of Nazem Kadri has helped carry the Leafs' offense, as he has totaled 5 points in just 5 games. With Joffrey Lupul set to miss an extended period of time, Kadri will have to step up alongside Phil Kessel as the Leafs' go-to scorers.

 

22. Buffalo Sabres (2-3-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 12

This Week’s Schedule: Toronto, @Boston, @Montreal, Florida

Breakdown: Thomas Vanek has emerged early this season as the team's offensive MVP and possible Hart Trophy Candidate. Vanek, who currently leads the team in scoring with 9 points, could carry the bulk of the Sabres offense this season if he can stay healthy. As expected, goaltender Ryan Miller has played well, but will need players like Vanek to build leads in order for the Sabres to play well this season.

 

21. New York Rangers (2-3-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 21

This Week’s Schedule: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, @Tampa Bay

Breakdown: Although the offense has sparked in recent games, the New York Rangers still continue to have trouble on their power play, converting on just 9.1% of their opportunities this season. Currently,  8 of the team's 14 goals have been scored by the top line of Brad Richards, Marian Gaborik and Rick Nash – if the team hopes to get heir offense going, other complimentary players must start to step up.

 

20. Carolina Hurricanes (2-2-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 26

This Week’s Schedule: Boston, Ottawa, @Philadelphia

Breakdown: The Carolina Hurricanes have rebounded nicely since their embarrassing 5-1 loss on opening night to the Florida Panthers. The Staal Brothers and Jeff Skinner continue to carry the bulk of the offense, but Alexander Semin will need to elevate his play and take the pressure off of Carolina's top 3 in order for the Canes to be successful. Goalie Cam Ward is still looking to get back to form as he currently sits on a 4.72 GAA on the season thus far and is being outplayed by backup Dan Ellis.

 

Carolina Hurricane Patrick Dwyer – Mandatory Photo Credit: Andy Martin Jr

19. Edmonton Oilers (2-2-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 14

This Week’s Schedule: Colorado, @Phoenix, @San Jose, @Colorado

Breakdown: While the Oilers may be one of the most fun to watch teams in the NHL, their offense has yet to get off to the explosive start that was expected of them. Averaging just 2.5 goals per game, the Oilers will need to pick up their offense to compensate for their lackluster defense. Rookie defenseman Justin Schultz's offensive abilities have been as good as advertised so far this season as he currently leads the team in scoring with 6 points.

 

18. Colorado Avalanche (2-2-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 18

This Week’s Schedule: @Edmonton, @Vancouver, @Calgary, Edmonton

Breakdown: The Colorado Avalanche's young offensive core is struggling to start the season as the team is currently near the bottom of the league in both goals per game (2.3) and power play percentage (8.3%). The team will need to resolve their conflict with unsigned center Ryan O'Reilly as it becomes a bigger distraction the farther the team gets into the season.

 

17. Nashville Predators (1-1-3)

Last Week’s Ranking: 17

This Week’s Schedule: @Phoenix, @Los Angeles, @San Jose

Breakdown: The Predators have played very well so far this season, but have struggled to win tight games en route to 3 overtime losses. The team has played well defensively without Ryan Suter thus far, only allowing 2.2 goals per game while playing solid defense in front of star goaltender Pekka Rinne. The Predators' offense continues to be a weakness as the team struggles to score every game. The team will need to add some offensive talent to their roster if they hope to make a run at the Stanley Cup this season.

 

16. Detroit Red Wings (2-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 23

This Week’s Schedule: Dallas, St. Louis, @Columbus

Breakdown: After a terrible start to their season, the Detroit Red Wings have stabilized and are playing good hockey in recent games. While the team has been able to win a few games, the offense is only scoring a meager 2 goals per game on average and have only converted 7.7% of their power play opportunities. The team will need to see bigger contributions from players like rookie Gustav Nyquist and offseason pickup Mikael Samuelsson if they want to contend in the Western Conference.

 

15. Vancouver Canucks (2-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 19

This Week’s Schedule: @Los Angeles, Colorado, Chicago

Breakdown: After a 4-1 loss to the high powered offense of the San Jose Sharks, the Vancouver Canucks are still searching for their identity. Goaltender Cory Schneider has been unpredictable so far this season and his 3.13 GAA / .897 SV% makes it hard to fully get behind the choice to replace Roberto Luongo. While the Canucks could get some much needed offensive help by trading Roberto Luongo, Cory Schneider’s less than stellar play is making it hard to be as enthusiastic about this new transition.

 

14. Dallas Stars (2-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 13

This Week’s Schedule: @Columbus, @Detroit, Phoenix, @Phoenix

Breakdown: Veteran forwards Jaromir Jagr and Ray Whintey have carried the bulk of he Stars' offensive load this season, combining for 9 points through the first 5 games of the season. The resolution of Jamie Benn's contract dispute and his return to the lineup should help bolster the Stars' offensive arsenal as they look to keep pace with the high scoring abilities of divisional rivals such as the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks.

 

13. New York Islanders ( 2-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 30

This Week’s Schedule: @Pittsburgh, @New Jersey, New Jersey

Breakdown: Good news, the New York Islanders have an offensive capable of making a run at the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Bad news, they have a defense that is bad enough to push them out of the playoff picture. Although team Captain John Tavares continues to excel as a facilitator and superstar on the ice – he leads the team with 7 points (1G 6A) – the Islanders offensive talents will continue to go unnoticed if their team continues to give up over three goals a game. General Manager Garth Snow must find a way to solidify the Islanders defense this season, or they could end up wasting another great year from Tavares.

 

12. Minnesota Wild (2-2-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 3

This Week’s Schedule: Columbus, Chicago, @Anaheim

Breakdown: Perhaps we were too quick to praise the talents of the Minnesota Wild as the team has begun to show their weaknesses early on this season. Through 5 games this season, it is clear that right now the Minnesota Wild only have one scoring line on their team. Out of the team’s 13 goals this season, 10 have been scored by the team’s top line pairing of Zach Parise, Dany Heatley and Mikko Koivu. If the team continues to put all of their eggs in one basket, they will struggle deeper in the season as teams only have to plan around stopping one scoring line.

 

11. Winnipeg Jets (3-1-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 28

This Week’s Schedule: @Montreal, @Florida, @Tampa Bay

Breakdown: The Winnipeg Jets are off to a hot start after winning a series of close games behind the fantastic play of goaltender Ondrej Pavelec and defenseman Dustin Byfuglien. Pavelec’s has played out of his mind early on this year, posting a 2.20 GAA / .932 SV% and has been the Jets’ MVP thus far. Along with forward Evander Kane, Dustin Byfuglien has been leading the team’s scoring attack, compiling 6 points through 5 games this season. The Jets will be put to the test this week as they head out on a long east coast road trip against Southeast Divisional foes.

 

10. Montreal Canadiens (3-1-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 25

This Week’s Schedule: Winnipeg, @Ottawa, Buffalo, Ottawa

Breakdown: Even without defenseman P.K. Subban, the remaining defensive unit and goaltedner Carey Price have done a great job of keeping the puck out of their own net and are currently tied for 2nd in the NHL with only 1.75 goals allowed per game on average. Defenseman Andrei Markov and Raphael Diaz have filled the void left by Subban and are both currently tied for the team lead in points with 5. If the offense can pick up the pace in front of an always stellar Carey Price, then the Canadiens could make a run at the playoffs this season.

 

9. Ottawa Senators (3-1-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 9

This Week’s Schedule: Washington, Montreal, @Carolina, @Montreal

Breakdown: The Senators were lucky enough to play against the imploding Florida Panthers twice during the first week of this NHL season. Goaltender Craig Anderson has been Vezina worthy thus far as his GAA has shrunk to a microscopic .74 on the season. Erik Karlsson is continuing to shine with his ability to control the Senators’ offense from the blue line as he is currently tied for the team lead in scoring with 5 points. With two games against Montreal scheduled for this week, we should have a much better idea just how good the Senators are by next week.

 

8. Pittsburgh Penguins (3-2-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 1

This Week’s Schedule: NY Islanders, @NY Rangers, New Jersey, @Washington

Breakdown: The Pittsburgh Penguins have still yet to hit their stride this season even though they have one of the most talented rosters in the NHL. While players like James Neal, Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby are excelling offesnively, the team’s complimentary players need to step up in order for the Penguins to dominate like they expect to. The Penguins will also need to find ways to improve their defense, both in their own zone and in the neutral zone if they hope to contend with the best teams in the league.

 

7. Anaheim Ducks (3-1-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 8

This Week’s Schedule: @San Jose, Minnesota, Los Angeles

Breakdown: Even though Bobby Ryan has only recorded 1 point in the team’s first 4 games, the Ducks’ offense has still been on fire behind big performances by players like Teemu Selanne, Daniel Winnik, Saku Koivu. If these three continue to excel alongside superstars like Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf, then the Ducks will be a threat to light up the lamp at will on any given night. However, the Ducks do have one glaring weakness so far this season, goaltender Jonas Hiller. Through 3 stars this season, Hiller has a 4.00 GAA / .864 SV% and could be in danger of losing his starting job unless he is able to turn it around.

 

6. New Jersey Devils (3-0-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 11

This Week’s Schedule: @Boston, NY Islanders, @Pittsburgh, @NY Islanders

Breakdown: With outstanding goaltending and defense leading the way, the New Jersey Devils are currenetly allowing only 1.75 goals per game on average – tied for 2nd overall in the NHL. Players like David Clarkson, Ilya Kovalchuk and Patrick Elias are doing enough every night offensively to put the team in a position to win behind their stellar defense. The team looks to get even better in the near future as Adam Henrique returns from injury to bolster the Devil’s offensive capabilities.

 

5. Tampa Bay Lightning (4-1-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 7

This Week’s Schedule: Florida, Winnipeg, New York Rangers

Breakdown: Look out NHL, there is an offensive storm brewing in St. Petersburg. With 4.8 goals per game on average, the Tampa Bay Lightning currently lead the NHL in scoring behind a laundry list of talented scorers including Steven Stamkos and Martin St. Louis. The biggest surprises thus for the Lightning thus far have been the performances by rookie Cory Conacher and Captain Vincent Lecavalier. If both players can continue their current level of play, then the Lightning’s offense will be too much to handle for any opponent. Goaltender Anders Lindback only needs to be average in net every night and the Lightning will have a chance to win.

4. Boston Bruins (3-0-1)

Last Week’s Ranking: 2

This Week’s Schedule: @Carolina, New Jersey, Buffalo, @Toronto

Breakdown: The Boston Bruins are currently the tale of two completely different special teams. This season, the Bruins penalty kill unit has yet to allow a power play goal, yet the Bruins own power play unit has only been able to convert 5.9% of their opportunities. While Tuukka Rask will play Vezina worthy hockey most of this season behind a world class defense, the Bruins will need to learn to score at some point if they hope to make it out of the Eastern Conference.

 

3. St. Louis Blues (5-1-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 4

This Week’s Schedule: @Columbus, @Detroit

Breakdown: The Blues really do look like the total package early on in this NHL season. Although the Blues do have some holes on defense, the goaltending duo of Halak and Elliot should keep opponent’s sticks quiet on most nights. However, the Blues now finally seem to have an offense to match their play in net, as players like David Perron and rookie Vladimir Tarasenko have brought new offensive life to St. Louis. If the Blues’ scorers continue to stay hot, then there is no telling how good this team can be.

 

2. Chicago Blackhawks (6-0-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 5

This Week’s Schedule: @Minnesota, @Vancouver, @Calgary

Breakdown: After an overtime win against the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday night, the Chicago Blackhawks are off to their best start in franchise history. Patrick Kane and Marian Hossa have been outstanding on offense, combining for 17 points through just 6 games this season. The Blackhawks’ penalty killing unit has also been very impressive early on, shutting down opponents 95.6% of the time. Believe it or not, Corey Crawford has played very well in net so far this season, posting a 1.78 GAA / .933 SV%, however only time will tell if he will continue to play at this level.

 

1. San Jose Sharks (5-0-0)

Last Week’s Ranking: 6

This Week’s Schedule: Anaheim, Edmonton, Nashville

Breakdown: Unless you have been living under a rock this past week, you are more than likely aware of how well the San Jose Sharks have played thus far this season. Sharks’ forward Patrick Marleau leads the NHL with 9 goals this season and along with teammate Joe Thornton leads the NHL in total points with 13. The Sharks’ power play has been unstoppable so far this season, with the team scoring on 37.5% of the time they have an extra man. However, the Sharks success isn’t all about offense, with just 1.6 goals allowed per game on average, the Sharks are also the best defensive unit in hockey. The only thing holding back the Sharks could be the wear and tear a shortened season takes on their veteran players, only time will tell how well they can play through such adversity.

 

 

For NHL coverage of the Florida Panthers or to yell at him for underrating your team in these power rankings, please follow Jameson on Twitter @coopdaloop123

 

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Jameson CooperA Florida resident, Jameson is currently in his first year of covering the Florida Panthers for The Hockey Writers as well as doing THW's weekly NHL Power Rankings.TwitterFacebook

This article was originally published at: The Hockey Writers.

Jason Spezza: The Growth Of A Star Into A Leader

Jason Spezza (Icon SMI)

 

Jason Spezza has been among the top players in the National Hockey League for some time now and as he and his game have changed, so has his role in Ottawa.  The former second-overall pick in 2001 has had a successful tenure with the Ottawa Senators to this point, although it hasn't been without its' share of criticism and debate.  His offensive talents have never been in question, however the now veteran center has worked hard to shed the label of an offense only type player by improving his all-around game and becoming much more of a two-way pivot.  The 6’3″ 215lbs Spezza has an extensive skill set consisting of a long skating stride making him deceptively quick and shifty, great hands and puck skills and a powerful shot. His intelligence and ability to read plays have also made him one of the better set up men in the league as well.  Combining these skills with his awareness and commitment to detail in all zones in recent times has set him apart as an elite player.

 

 

Since the start of the 2006-2007 season Jason Spezza has been not only a top level scorer, but one of the premiere centers in the game.  He has averaged well over a point per game, but is also a plus player and has won over 50 percent of his face-offs each year placing him among the league's best in that category.  He posted a career high 92 points with 34 goals and 58 assists while playing in all 82 games during the 2007-2008 season.  This was following his outstanding performance of 7 goals and 15 assists for 22 points in the 2006-2007 playoffs, tying him for the team lead in scoring and helping guide the Senators to their first Stanley Cup Final since the franchise was re-introduced.   His lowest output during that time frame were two back to back injury shortened seasons where he still managed to produce 57 points in 60 and 62 games respectfully during the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 seasons.

 

He was the center and catalyst for one of if not the most dominant line in hockey during a four season stretch playing alongside Daniel Alfredsson and Dany Heatley.  The three amassed a total of 1,057 points primarily playing together from 05-06 to the end of the 08-09 campaign and treated fans in the Nation's Capital and around the league to stellar play.  When Dany Heatley was traded following the 08-09 season it broke up the trio and marked a significant moment for the franchise.  The team only two seasons removed from a Stanley Cup Finals appearance was on the decline and due for a makeover, and many were interested to see what would happen with Spezza.

 

The trade rumors began to swirl as it seemed not only the fans but some in the front office had begun to wonder if it was time for the All-Star center to be moved. He had signed a new 7-year deal beginning in the 08-09 season at a cap hit of 7million dollars per year and it was clear both Sens fans and the organization wanted another level from Spezza. The offensive numbers were great, however the subject of debate in Ottawa was whether he had or would reach his full potential and whether or not he would truly embrace a leadership role so many wanted to see him fill.

 

 

That debate and those questions were quieted significantly late in the 2010-2011 season when he was given the priviledge of wearing the 'A' on his sweater by the organization for the remainder of the year.  New head coach Paul MacLean saw no reason to change that when he took over for the 2011-2012 season, as Spezza was one of the leaders he looked to and leaned on heavily right away.  He announced Spezza would serve as a full time alternate captain and part of his leadership group with fellow alternate captain Chris Phillips and captain Daniel Alfredsson.  The new leadership role was yet another step in the development of Spezza as the complete player many had been waiting to see.  To his credit Spezza continued to work hard and improve his game knowing all along that he would develop into a leader in Ottawa.

 

'It's kind of a natural progression.  I think the longer you are around, the more responsibility you have,' Spezza said when asked about wearing the 'A.'  With the 'youth movement' in full swing in Ottawa right now there may be no better mentor for the young and talented group than Spezza, knowing exactly what it’s like to be a high profile player with expectations in a hockey driven city.  The Sens young star and now Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson has always looked to Spezza as a leader and was pleased to see him officially in the new role. 'Since I came here, he's been a top player and someone to rely on.  Both on and off the ice, he's a really great guy and he's really taken responsibility for everything, and making sure everything is good with everyone,” he said.

 

The Toronto native lead by example this past season posting 84 points while playing in all but two games and leading the young Senators team to a surprise eighth place finish in the Eastern Conference.  He continued his strong play with three goals and two assists in a tough seven game series with the top seeded New York Rangers before the Sens were knocked out.  Although Spezza was already an established player and highly respected member of the Sens it was clear listening to him going into the 2011-2012 season that he had grown and truly embraced his new title saying, 'I know I have to be good every night for our team to do well.  With the young guys around, I know I have to make a good impression off the ice.  I have to be able to help out other guys.'  The fans in Ottawa watched a talented young team take a big step last year and with a strong group of players like Spezza leading with their actions, they can expect continued success this season as well.

 

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Greg Brown

This article was originally published at: The Hockey Writers.

PK Subban's Contract Talks: Losing Leverage

While PK Subban is out of action negotiating his new contract, the Canadiens have gone 3-1-0 benefiting from big contributions from the blue line. Andrei Markov has 4 of Montreal's 13 goals, including all 3 game winners, and stay-at-home defenseman Josh Gorges has lit the lamp already as well. But the biggest surprise so far on the Habs' roster has been Raphael Diaz; the Swiss rearguard already has 5 assists, getting his name on the scoresheet for over half of Montreal's markers during the first three games this year.

(Jeanine Leech/Icon SMI)

The season is still young, but Diaz is living up to the potential he showed last year when he earned an invitation to the rookie skills competition during the NHL All-Star weekend. With the rest of the defense clicking as well, Marc Bergevin is suddenly holding all the cards in the PK Subban contract negotiation.

Subban and Diaz, Polar Opposites

It's hard to argue PK Subban's value to the Canadiens. The dynamic young defenseman is among the NHL's most naturally skilled players and his flamboyant personality has quickly made him a fan favorite. Raphael Diaz certainly has talent, but he's soft-spoken and much of his success comes from his hard work and his ability to make smart decisions.

Where Subban has sometimes been guilty of doing too much on his own and taking too many chances, Diaz is rarely out of place and is becoming renowned for making a great first pass. Diaz is everything a franchise could want in a denfenseman, skilled, reliable and unselfish. Subban, on the other hand, is a marketer's dream, flashy, photogenic, a little controversial and extremely talented.

Bergevin in the Spotlight

As long as the Habs keep winning, Bergevin can be patient. That means that with every Habs victory, Subban loses a little bit more leverage. There's no doubt the team is better with PK in the lineup, but the business side of hockey has taken over now and the realities of a shrinking salary cap can't be ignored.

Bergevin has done a lot of things right in his first year as GM, but dealing with Subban has been his toughest task yet. Bergevin's reputation will be built on these negotiations, in the eyes of both the fans and the players.

By allowing PK to holdout Bergevin has already proven he is no pushover. Now he must come to terms with Subban both fairly, to keep his players happy, and quickly, to appease the fans.

 

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Rob ElbazRob has been blogging about the Habs since 2011 at MontrealHockeyTalk.com and can usually be heard after Canadiens games on the MHT post game radio show.

This article was originally published at: The Hockey Writers.

Corey Crawford Is The X-Factor For The Chicago Blackhawks

(Rob Grabowski-US PRESSWIRE)

With their sixth win of the season on Sunday night, the Chicago Blackhawks are officially off to their best start in team history.

They’ve been playing at a high level, as such a start would indicate. Their big names have shown up, and stepped up in the big moments, while they’re also getting top notch play from their blue line and on special teams, including a penalty kill that has surrendered just one goal this season.

Coming into the season, we knew the Blackhawks were going to be a playoff contender. A team that remained almost identical to last season would see the benefits of that chemistry that they built up last year in a shortened season. And we’ve seen that to this point.

But if the Blackhawks are going to continue this run and make some noise in the playoffs, it’s going to come down to the play of Corey Crawford. If the first few games are any indication, then Crawford may be well on his way to a return to that 2010-2011 form that earned him a new contract.

There’s no doubt that Crawford had a pretty poor 2011-2012 season. He struggled to piece together any sort of consistency, which was not helped by Joel Quenneville‘s inability to properly manage his goaltenders. While the physical skill was still there, it was pretty clear that Crawford lacked confidence.

That lack of confidence and consistency was magnified when Crawford surrendered a pair of game-winning goals in their playoff series against the Phoenix Coyotes, both in overtime, both to Mikkel Boedker, and both of the extremely soft variety.

Some wondered if Crawford would bounce back and whether or not the Hawks should have pursued other goaltending options (Roberto Luongo) prior to this season beginning. But through his first five starts this year, it’s clear that Crawford is back.

Corey Crawford has surrendered just nine goals in his five starts in 2013. He has a .933 save percentage and a goals-against average of just 1.78. Those are some of the best numbers in the league. While the Hawks were criticized last year for not receiving any stolen “goalie wins” from Crawford, he already has one to his credit this year, against the Detroit Red Wings that helped propel the Hawks to that 6-0-0 mark.

It may still be a bit early to announce that Corey Crawford is back to form and a top tier goaltender, despite him looking like he can play the part here in the early going. But if he can string together more performances like we’ve seen in the past week, the Hawks are set between the pipes.

The Hawks have plenty of offensive skill. Their blue line has been terrific. Their special teams have been much improved. But if they hope to contend for a second Stanley Cup title in the last few seasons, it’s going to rest on the shoulders of Corey Crawford.

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Randy Holt

This article was originally published at: The Hockey Writers.