An Ode To Heroes

On the very eve of free agency, some thoughts go to the players who may be leaving and whose skills we will have to replace in order to progress:


Saku Koivu
Lasting memory (Game 6 return vs. Bruins 2008):

"It was a triumphant return for the skipper tonight and all that was really missing was the most important piece of the puzzle - the win. He had 2 assists, was 71% in the face-off circle and was just one of 3 forwards to end with a positive +/-"

Alexei Kovalev
Lasting memory (Show of pride in Game 60 2009 vs. Ottawa):

"Alex's truly magnificent return to the line-up was highlighted by his first 3 point game in over a year. Unlike RDS (who's evidence are stats alone), I wouldn't immediately claim that this was his best game in a year, but I think it was a very strong performance. Aside from the strong offensive play, which also included a few other very dangerous chances, there was also some very strong defensive play. He was our best penalty-killer and played a very responsible 2-way game."

Alex Tanguay
Lasting memory (Game 73, the reunion):

"What a game for Alex! He scored 2 goals and assisted on 3 others for a whopping 5 points. He looked very comfortable playing with Kovalev and Koivu as the 3 players seemed to click right from the start of the game. Tonight's Tanguay was the one we saw in October and, although we have seen glimpses recently, it is great to have him back. What I liked the most about his play was the puck movement and the vision. At heart I believe he is a play-maker who sees the ice like few others, but he obviously has great hands and can score too."

Mike Komisarek

Robert Lang

Francis Bouillon

Mathieu Dandenault

Patrice Brisebois
May the nightmare end. For all of us.

Tom Kostopoulos

No doubt we'll see some of you again. To those that must go, fare well.