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Thursday, January 3, 2008
Hand out some mid-season awards
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We’re halfway home. 41 games down, 41 to go. It’s been an up and down season, but here’s the reality: A regulation win against Carolina on Friday and the Thrashers are one point out of the division lead. That’s says something about the division, because the Thrashers haven’t exactly been lighting it up. But let’s also give some credit to the Thrashers who have shown resiliency in putting themselves back in position to defend their Southeast title. That seemed hopeless a couple months ago.
Here’s an all-encompassing update: The Thrashers had an optional practice today, and it was a lively one. Eric Boulton is being evaluated right now after straining his knee against the Hurricanes. It’s likely that we’ll see a call-up from the AHL today, and when it’s official I’ll let you know. Jim Slater is no closer to returning, so don’t expect relief there. Today was the first time I did a post-practice press conference with Brad McCrimmon, and he played things pretty close to the vest, so don’t expect vast amounts of enlightening information from Beast for now, unless you think “we’re focusing on the next game,” is enlightening.
Kari Lehtonen expects to start against Carolina, and that would make sense. But, boy, what a great game from Johan Hedberg last night considering all the time off he had. He made some big saves.
So we’re at the midpoint, so it’s time to hand out some awards (yeah, I’m asking you to do my homework for me. I’ll be picking a few mid-season contenders for MVP, Calder etc., for Sunday’s paper). Your Atlanta bias aside, is Ilya Kovalchuk the league’s MVP? You certainly could make a compelling case. What about Rookie of the Year? Actually, let’s pick the five big ones, and you tell me who you think is the favorite at this point. I’ll let you know mine after I write it.
Calder Memorial Trophy:
Hart Memorial Trophy:
Jack Adams Award:
James Norris Memorial Trophy:
Vezina Trophy:
Plus these bonus questions: Stanley Cup winner? Conference champs? Do the Thrashers make the playoffs?
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