AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2005 > December > 13
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Popovic called up
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Thrashers have called up defenseman Mark Popovic from Chicago of the AHL to fill Andy Sutton’s spot, with Sutton being ill from the flu. Popovic was acquired during the offseason for pugilist Kip Brennan (who was acquired for Jeff Cowan).
Coach Bob Hartley said today after the skate that he wants to give Popovic a good look. With Jaroslav Modry struggling, the Thrashers could use a good skating defenseman. Hartley said he likes Popovic’s vision and his skating ability, two of the most important assets for a defenseman with the new rules. (Two most important things for a defenseman with the new rules: Get the puck first and get it out of the zone fast.) Popovic might also get some power play time.
The 6-foot-1 Popovic, 23, is a former second-round pick (35th overall) who had only played one NHL game prior to this season. What do you think his chances are of developing into a dependable player on the blue line or just providing some relieft along the backline?
