Greetings, allow me to beg your indulgence. With hockey season quickly approaching, I thought I would pick out 5 of the NHL's best "Heart and Soul" guys. The players listed may not be the most productive on the scoresheet or may not be the most skilled players, but they wear their team and heart on their sleeves.
1. Scott Hartnell (Philadelphia Flyers)
Analysis: I love the way Hartnell plays the game. He can be utilized in any situation whether it is 5 on 5 or on special teams. He hits hard, he can fight, and he is a great character in the dressing room. His tenacious play is what Flyers hockey is all about. Hartnell is also involved in lots of charitable work - #hartnelldown. How can anyone not love his brillopad on his head?
2. Milan Lucic (Boston Bruins)
Analysis: The Vancouver native has his own brand of hockey. The face (or should I say "nose") of Bruins hockey plays like a tank and is destructive like a tank. He is an idol in Boston (and in Vancouver) because of his rugged blue collar play. His presence on the ice resembles that of a grizzly bear on skates - he is big and broad shouldered and has a real short temper. I think Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller wishes Lucic skated in going away from him, not coming at him. It is safe to say that Milan Lucic looks pissed off all the time. I do not think I have ever seen him smile.
3. Mike Richards (Los Angeles Kings)
Analysis: I cannot believe the Flyers traded this guy. He likes to drink beer and party - who doesn't? The former Kitchener Ranger is a winner. He has a Stanley Cup and an Olympic gold medal to prove it. Richards is not a big hockey player, but he makes up his lack of size with his desire and leadership on the rink. The former Captain of the Flyers is a shorthanded threat and a dangerous penalty killer. What impresses me most about Richards is his will to get to the dirty areas. I applaud the Los Angeles Kings for trading to get this guy.
4. David Backes (St. Louis Blues)
Analysis: The US Olympian is the face and Captain of the St. Louis Blues. Consistently putting up 20-30 goals, 50-60 points, and 100 penalty minutes every season, Backes is a fierce competitor. He plays like a semi truck on a nightly basis. While he is not fleet of foot, if this big rig is coming at you in the corner, you better brace yourself. He has experience at playing centre and on the wing. This is a guy that Blues coach Ken Hitchcock and the fans expect to bring his A game every night.
5. Ryan Kesler (Vancouver Canucks) - Homer Pick
Analysis: I call him the engine that drives the Canucks. When he is missing from the Canucks lineup, it affects everyone's play. The former Selke winner has been injury plagued the past couple seasons, but Vancouver fans are so happy to hear that he is 100% healthy. Kesler is used in all situations for the Canucks whether it is 5 on 5 or on special teams. He is probably the most accurate shooter among the Canuck forwards. On a side note, he is proud of posing nude.
Until next time, stay classy. -George
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