By Joey Michael Gucciardo
[: LAST NIGHT'S SCORES smile emoticon
NASHVILLE 3 - BOSTON 2
MINNESOTA 2 - COLORADO 1 (OT)
BUFFALO 2 - VANCOUVER 5
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[: TOP 250, REST-OF-SEASON FANTASY HOCKEY RATINGS (ACCORDING TO SEAN ALLEN ON ESPN [http://es.pn/1N9XjUG]):
RANK/PLAYER/POSITION/TEAM POSRANK LAST WEEK
1. Patrick Kane, RW, Chi RW1 2
2. Alex Ovechkin, RW, Was RW2 1
3. Jamie Benn, LW, Dal LW1 3
4. Tyler Seguin, C, Dal C1 4
5. John Tavares, C, NYI C2 5
6. Evgeni Malkin, C, Pit C3 6
7. Vladimir Tarasenko, RW, StL RW3 7
8. Erik Karlsson, D, Ott D1 9
9. Joe Pavelski, C, SJ C4 8
10. Henrik Lundqvist, G, NYR G1 10
11. Steven Stamkos, C, TB C5 11
12. Claude Giroux, C, Phi C6 14
13. Sidney Crosby, C, Pit C7 12
14. Taylor Hall, LW, Edm LW2 21
15. Max Pacioretty, LW, Mon LW3 15
16. P.K. Subban, D, Mon D2 13
17. Nicklas Backstrom, C, Was C8 16
18. Braden Holtby, G, Was G2 17
19. Ryan Johansen, C, Cls C9 19
20. Dustin Byfuglien, D, Wpg D3 22
21. Corey Perry, RW, Ana RW4 20
22. Cory Schneider, G, NJ G3 25
23. Nathan MacKinnon, C, Col C10 23
24. Brent Burns, D, SJ D4 26
25. Marc-Andre Fleury, G, Pit G4 18
26. Phil Kessel, RW, Pit RW5 24
27. Henrik Zetterberg, C, Det C11 27
28. Rick Nash, LW, NYR LW4 29
29. Daniel Sedin, LW, Van LW5 30
30. Jake Allen, G, StL G5 28
31. Johnny Gaudreau, LW, Cgy LW6 31
32. Jonathan Quick, G, LA G6 36
33. Ryan Getzlaf, C, Ana C12 33
34. Zach Parise, LW, Min LW7 34
35. Jakub Voracek, RW, Phi RW6 35
36. John Klingberg, D, Dal D5 46
37. Ben Bishop, G, TB G7 44
38. Blake Wheeler, RW, Wpg RW7 38
39. Pekka Rinne, G, Nsh G8 32
40. Patrice Bergeron, C, Bos C13 39
41. Corey Crawford, G, Chi G9 37
42. Martin Jones, G, SJ G10 42
43. Gabriel Landeskog, LW, Col LW8 40
44. Alexander Steen, LW, StL LW9 41
45. Jeff Carter, RW, LA RW8 48
46. Devan Dubnyk, G, Min G11 45
47. David Krejci, C, Bos C14 47
48. Tyler Johnson, C, TB C15 43
49. Jaroslav Halak, G, NYI G12 49
50. Kyle Turris, C, Ott C16 50
51. Mark Stone, RW, Ott RW9 51
52. Evgeny Kuznetsov, C, Was C17 61
53. Jonathan Toews, C, Chi C18 52
54. Nikita Kucherov, RW, TB RW10 53
55. T.J. Oshie, RW, Was RW11 54
56. Jason Spezza, C, Dal C19 55
57. Tomas Plekanec, C, Mon C20 65
58. Jiri Hudler, RW, Cgy RW12 56
59. Marian Hossa, RW, Chi RW13 57
60. Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Cls G13 58
61. Anze Kopitar, C, LA C21 59
62. Andrew Ladd, LW, Wpg LW10 60
63. Matt Duchene, C, Col C22 72
64. Pavel Datsyuk, C, Det C23 62
65. James Neal, LW, Nsh LW11 63
66. Roman Josi, D, Nsh D6 64
67. Henrik Sedin, C, Van C24 66
68. Roberto Luongo, G, Fla G14 67
69. Artemi Panarin, C, Chi C25 77
70. Patrick Sharp, LW, Dal LW12 68
71. John Carlson, D, Was D7 69
72. Andrei Markov, D, Mon D8 70
73. Mike Cammalleri, LW, NJ LW13 90
74. Shea Weber, D, Nsh D9 78
75. Kyle Okposo, RW, NYI RW14 71
76. Mike Hoffman, LW, Ott LW14 91
77. Chris Kreider, LW, NYR LW15 73
78. Victor Hedman, D, TB D10 74
79. Tyler Toffoli, RW, LA RW15 75
80. Jordan Eberle, RW, Edm RW16 76
81. Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D, Ari D11 84
82. Duncan Keith, D, Chi D12 79
83. Kevin Shattenkirk, D, StL D13 85
84. Tuukka Rask, G, Bos G15 80
85. Brad Marchand, LW, Bos LW16 93
86. Joe Thornton, C, SJ C26 81
87. Derick Brassard, C, NYR C27 82
88. Scott Hartnell, LW, Cls LW17 83
89. Leon Draisaitl, C, Edm C28 86
90. David Backes, C, StL C29 87
91. Carey Price, G, Mon G16 95
92. Mats Zuccarello, RW, NYR RW17 97
93. Filip Forsberg, C, Nsh C30 88
94. Justin Faulk, D, Car D14 94
95. Gustav Nyquist, RW, Det RW18 92
96. Ryan Suter, D, Min D15 105
97. Drew Doughty, D, LA D16 119
98. Torey Krug, D, Bos D17 96
99. Max Domi, C, Ari C31 107
100. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, C, Edm C32 98
101. Brandon Saad, LW, Cls LW18 99
102. Dylan Larkin, C, Det C33 120
103. Ryan O'Reilly, RW, Buf RW19 110
104. Eric Staal, C, Car C34 100
105. Adam Henrique, C, NJ C35 129
106. Bobby Ryan, RW, Ott RW20 101
107. Wayne Simmonds, LW, Phi LW19 102
108. Alex Pietrangelo, D, StL D18 103
109. Bryan Little, C, Wpg C36 104
110. Ryan Miller, G, Van G17 89
111. Keith Yandle, D, NYR D19 106
112. Mark Giordano, D, Cgy D20 108
113. Nick Foligno, LW, Cls LW20 109
114. Nazem Kadri, C, Tor C37 130
115. Loui Eriksson, LW, Bos LW21 133
116. Zdeno Chara, D, Bos D21 138
117. Patrick Marleau, LW, SJ LW22 111
118. Alex Galchenyuk, LW, Mon LW23 122
119. Sean Monahan, C, Cgy C38 112
120. Kris Letang, D, Pit D22 113
121. Radim Vrbata, RW, Van RW21 114
122. Jaromir Jagr, RW, Fla RW22 115
123. Jason Pominville, RW, Min RW23 116
124. Tomas Tatar, LW, Det LW24 117
125. Petr Mrazek, G, Det G18 134
126. Milan Lucic, LW, LA LW25 121
127. Alexander Edler, D, Van D23 123
128. Jack Eichel, C, Buf C39 124
129. Steve Mason, G, Phi G19 125
130. Boone Jenner, RW, Cls RW24 126
131. Logan Couture, C, SJ C40 127
132. Jarome Iginla, RW, Col RW25 128
133. Ondrej Palat, LW, TB LW26 131
134. Paul Stastny, C, StL C41 132
135. James van Riemsdyk, LW, Tor LW27 135
136. Mikko Koivu, C, Min C42 136
137. Tyson Barrie, D, Col D24 137
138. Evander Kane, LW, Buf LW28 139
139. Thomas Vanek, LW, Min LW29 140
140. Frederik Andersen, G, Ana G20 118
141. Connor Hellebuyck, G, Wpg G21 226
142. Derek Stepan, C, NYR C43 141
143. Aaron Ekblad, D, Fla D25 142
144. Jonathan Huberdeau, LW, Fla LW30 143
145. Brock Nelson, C, NYI C44 144
146. Ryan McDonagh, D, NYR D26 171
147. Antti Niemi, G, Dal G22 145
148. Justin Williams, RW, Was RW26 169
149. Kari Lehtonen, G, Dal G23 146
150. Nick Bjugstad, C, Fla C45 147
151. Nikolaj Ehlers, LW, Wpg LW31 148
152. Semyon Varlamov, G, Col G24 162
153. Mikkel Boedker, LW, Ari LW32 149
154. Justin Abdelkader, LW, Det LW33 150
155. Mark Scheifele, C, Wpg C46 151
156. Craig Anderson, G, Ott G25 152
157. Dion Phaneuf, D, Tor D27 153
158. Aleksander Barkov, C, Fla C47 154
159. Kyle Palmieri, RW, NJ RW27 174
160. Marian Gaborik, RW, LA RW28 155
161. Ryan Kesler, C, Ana C48 156
162. Martin Hanzal, C, Ari C49 157
163. John Gibson, G, Ana G26 N/R
164. James Reimer, G, Tor G27 158
165. Jason Zucker, LW, Min LW34 159
166. Niklas Kronwall, D, Det D28 160
167. Rasmus Ristolainen, D, Buf D29 193
168. Reto Berra, G, Col G28 161
169. Anders Nilsson, G, Edm G29 N/R
170. Mika Zibanejad, RW, Ott RW29 163
171. Ryan Callahan, RW, TB RW30 164
172. Johnny Boychuk, D, NYI D30 165
173. Brent Seabrook, D, Chi D31 166
174. Brendan Gallagher, RW, Mon RW31 167
175. Mikael Granlund, C, Min C50 168
176. Jimmy Howard, G, Det G30 170
177. Patric Hornqvist, RW, Pit RW32 172
178. Nino Niederreiter, RW, Min RW33 173
179. Sami Vatanen, D, Ana D32 175
180. Jonathan Drouin, LW, TB LW35 176
181. Colin Wilson, LW, Nsh LW36 177
182. Jori Lehtera, C, StL C51 178
183. Brandon Dubinsky, C, Cls C52 179
184. Mike Condon, G, Mon G31 250
185. Mike Ribeiro, C, Nsh C53 180
186. Lee Stempniak, RW, NJ RW34 221
187. Ryan Strome, C, NYI C54 181
188. Matt Moulson, LW, Buf LW37 182
189. Anders Lee, LW, NYI LW38 183
190. Chris Kunitz, LW, Pit LW39 184
191. Artem Anisimov, C, Chi C55 185
192. Elias Lindholm, C, Car C56 186
193. Troy Brouwer, RW, StL RW35 187
194. Mathieu Perreault, C, Wpg C57 188
195. Joffrey Lupul, LW, Tor LW40 189
196. Dennis Wideman, D, Cgy D33 190
197. Joel Ward, RW, SJ RW36 212
198. Connor McDavid, C, Edm C58 191
199. Tyler Ennis, C, Buf C59 192
200. Tanner Pearson, LW, LA LW41 194
201. Drew Stafford, RW, Wpg RW37 195
202. Brayden Schenn, C, Phi C60 196
203. Brian Elliott, G, StL G32 197
204. Mike Smith, G, Ari G33 198
205. Craig Smith, RW, Nsh RW38 199
206. David Pastrnak, LW, Bos LW42 200
207. Victor Rask, C, Car C61 231
208. Frans Nielsen, C, NYI C62 243
209. Michal Neuvirth, G, Phi G34 201
210. Reilly Smith, RW, Fla RW39 202
211. Kevin Hayes, C, NYR C63 203
212. Jaden Schwartz, LW, StL LW43 204
213. Hampus Lindholm, D, Ana D34 205
214. Anton Stralman, D, TB D35 206
215. Jeff Skinner, LW, Car LW44 207
216. Jason Demers, D, Dal D36 208
217. Erik Johnson, D, Col D37 209
218. Karri Ramo, G, Cgy G35 210
219. Dougie Hamilton, D, Cgy D38 211
220. Shayne Gostisbehere, D, Phi D39 225
221. Valtteri Filppula, C, TB C64 213
222. Cam Atkinson, RW, Cls RW40 214
223. Colton Parayko, D, StL D40 215
224. Ryan Ellis, D, Nsh D41 216
225. Mike Green, D, Det D42 217
226. Michael Hutchinson, G, Wpg G36 218
227. Nail Yakupov, RW, Edm RW41 219
228. Teemu Pulkkinen, LW, Det LW45 220
229. Marcus Johansson, LW, Was LW46 222
230. Josh Bailey, LW, NYI LW47 223
231. Jimmy Hayes, RW, Bos RW42 224
232. Jake Muzzin, D, LA D43 N/R
233. David Desharnais, C, Mon C65 227
234. Cam Fowler, D, Ana D44 228
235. Kris Versteeg, RW, Car RW43 229
236. Anthony Duclair, LW, Ari LW48 230
237. Ryan Spooner, C, Bos C66 232
238. Jhonas Enroth, G, LA G37 233
239. Francois Beauchemin, D, Col D45 234
240. Jonas Hiller, G, Cgy G38 235
241. Dale Weise, RW, Mon RW44 N/R
242. Jannik Hansen, RW, Van RW45 237
243. Scott Darling, G, Chi G39 238
244. Mark Streit, D, Phi D46 239
245. Morgan Rielly, D, Tor D47 240
246. Cam Ward, G, Car G40 241
247. Carl Soderberg, C, Col C67 242
248. Michael Stone, D, Ari D48 244
249. Teuvo Teravainen, LW, Chi LW49 245
250. Oscar Lindberg, C, NYR C68 N/R
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[: AROUND THE LEAGUE NOTEBOOK - MONDAY, DEC. 7 (FROM NHL [http://bit.ly/1ID3LES]):
AVALANCHE HONOR 20TH ANNIVERSARY TEAM
The Colorado Avalanche honored their 20th Anniversary Team, as selected by the fans, at Pepsi Center in the second half of their home-and-home series with the Minnesota Wild. The night included a special pre-game ceremony as well as a memorable 'Jerseys Off Our Backs' presentation, headlined by Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, Patrick Roy, Ray Bourque, Adam Foote, Rob Blake, Sandis Ozolinsh, Valeri Kamensky and Milan Hejduk, among others.
* Click here to watch the entire pre-game ceremony.
MONDAY'S RESULTS
Home Team in CAPS
Nashville 3, BOSTON 2
COLORADO 2, Minnesota 1 (OT)
VANCOUVER 5, Buffalo 2
VRBATA, CANUCKS SNAP FIVE-GAME LOSING SKID
Radim Vrbata (3-0—3) recorded his first hat trick as a member of the Canucks (106 GP) to help the Vancouver Canucks end their five-game winless streak (0-3-2).
* Vrbata’s three-goal outing was the sixth hat trick of his NHL career (898 GP) and his first since Oct. 3, 2013 vs. NYR w/ PHX (3-0—3).
* Daniel Sedin (0-2—2) and Henrik Sedin (1-0—1) rank first and second on the Canucks in points this season with 12-19—31 and 9-18—27, respectively (29 GP each).
* The Canucks are 8-1-1 in their past 10 home games vs. BUF dating to March 16, 2000 (BUF: 1-8-1), which includes three straight victories.
PREDATORS RALLY AGAINST BRUINS
The Nashville Predators overcame 1-0 and 2-1 deficits via two power-play goals by Roman Josi (2-0—2) and Viktor Arvidsson scored the go-ahead marker at 15:04 of the third period to end the Boston Bruins' point streak at eight games (6-0-2).
* With three power-play goals (27 GP), Josi equaled his single-season career high from 2014-15 (81 GP) and 2013-14 (72 GP).
* Nashville defensemen have combined for five power-play goals over the past two games. Per Elias, the Predators lead the NHL in goals (23) and power-play goals (12) from their defensemen this season.
MITCHELL LEADS AVALANCHE PAST WILD
After Zach Parise tied the contest with 6:09 remaining in the third period, John Mitchell scored his first career overtime goal at 3:35 of the extra frame and the Avalanche evaded a home-and-home sweep at the hands of the Wild.
* Tyson Barrie (1-1—2) factored on each of the Avalanche's goals and leads their defensemen in assists and points with 3-15—18 this season (25 GP).
* Matt Duchene (0-1—1) assisted on Mitchell's overtime-winner and has 13-10—23 since the beginning of November (18 GP) after posting 1-1—2 in the month of October (10 GP).
MILESTONES & BENCHMARKS
* Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron (0-1—1) registered his 575th career point (214-361—575 in 766 GP) and tied Milt Schmidt (229-346—575 in 776 GP) for 11th on the Bruins' all-time points list.
* Avalanche goaltender Semyon Varlamov (19 saves) appeared in his 225th career game with the team and tied Dan Bouchard for third on the all-time Avalanche/Nordiques games played list among goaltenders. The two goalies with more: Peter Budaj (242 GP) and Patrick Roy (478 GP).
* Vancouver forward Brandon Prust (1-1—2) scored his first goal as a member of the Canucks (18 GP).
LOOSE PUCKS
The Predators earned their first win at BOS since Nov. 28, 2003 (2-1 W), ending a five-game road losing streak (0-3-2). … Predators defenseman Shea Weber (0-2—2) has 3-2—5 in his past two games and 3-5—8 in his past four. Weber extended his point streak vs. BOS to seven games (3-6—9). ... Predators goaltender Carter Hutton (15 saves) is 3-1-0 this season (2.74 GAA, .907 SV%). ... Wild forward Zach Parise (1-0—1) has 11-15—26 in 24 career regular-season games vs. COL. ... Canucks goaltender Ryan Miller made 32 saves to earn his second career victory against his former team (2-1-0). ... Sabres forward Sam Reinhart (1-0—1) has four goals in his past five games (4-0—4). ... Sabres forward Jamie McGinn (0-1—1) extended his point streak to a career-high six games (2-5—7). ... Sabres forward Ryan O'Reilly (0-1—1) extended his point streak to five games (2-4—6). ... Sweden, Finland and the United States released their selection camp rosters ahead of the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship in Helsinki, Finland. ... Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson, Predators defenseman Shea Weber and New Jersey Devils left wing Mike Cammalleri were named the NHL's "Three Stars" for the week ending Dec. 6. ... ICYMI: The Canucks honored former players Markus Naslund, Todd Bertuzzi, and Brendan Morrison – who played on a line nicknamed the West Coast Express – prior to puck-drop at Rogers Arena.
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AHL NOTEBOOK: SIX TEAMS WITH COMPELLING STORYLINES (FROM NHL [http://bit.ly/1jMHc55]):
American Hockey League teams are nearly a third of the way through the regular season. As usual, preseason predictions have withered away in a league where lineups change daily, breakthrough seasons are the norm for still-developing prospects and the fortunes of NHL parent teams filter down to the AHL level.
Here are six teams with intriguing storylines that have emerged:
Albany Devils: The surprising Devils have used a six-game winning streak and an 8-1-1-0 record in their past 10 games to ascend to a second-place tie in the AHL with 33 points. The New Jersey Devils' AHL affiliate has reached the Calder Cup Playoffs twice since 2000, with each visit ending in a first-round loss. However, this Albany team could be the strongest edition of a New Jersey affiliate since the 1990s, when Albany helped to fuel three Stanley Cup championships for New Jersey.
Ontario Reign: In a league where a compact schedule means a stumble can rapidly snowball into a losing streak, the defending Calder Cup champion has managed to avoid any major slumps. Ontario was swept in a three-game weekend Oct. 30-Nov. 1 and then proceeded win seven of its next eight games. The AHL schedule also heavily emphasizes divisional play, and Ontario has gone 9-4-2-0 against the Pacific Division. The Reign's .737 winning percentage leads the Western Conference.
Portland Pirates: More could be expected from a team ranked seventh in the AHL with 3.05 goals per game. Forward Rob Schremp leads the Pirates with 16 points (eight goals, eight assists), but there is a balanced offensive mix that has powered coach Tom Rowe's team. However, the Pirates have not been able to keep the puck out of their own net, even though their 26.8 shots-against per game is fifth-best in the AHL. Veteran goaltender Mike McKenna has the starting job, but he has struggled with a .886 save percentage. In all, the Pirates' 19 points rank them last in the Atlantic Division.
Rockford forward Ryan Hartman has 10 goals in 21 games. (Photo: Todd Riecher/Rockford IceHogs)
Rockford IceHogs: Rockford has teamed winning with producing talent for the Chicago Blackhawks; the IceHogs lead the Western Conference with 33 points. A vital part in producing key parts of the Blackhawks' three Stanley Cup championships since 2010, the Chicago-Rockford pipeline has also helped to replenish the NHL roster after salary-cap needs have ravaged it. Stationed in the tough Central Division, the IceHogs have won six of their past seven games. Their goaltending is a blend of a proven AHL veteran in Michael Leighton and an interesting reclamation project in Mark Visentin, a first-round pick (No. 27, Arizona Coyotes) in the 2010 NHL Draft. Another first-round pick, forward Ryan Hartman, has 10 goals in 21 games. Defenseman Ville Pokka, a key piece in the Nick Leddy trade with the New York Islanders, could be in Chicago before long.
San Diego Gulls: A 2-7-0-1 slide has left the Gulls fourth in the Pacific Division and trying to fend off the San Jose Barracuda and Bakersfield Condors. Part of the skid can be explained by goaltender John Gibson's recall to the Anaheim Ducks, but Gibson has not been a dominant AHL goaltender this season, managing a .917 save percentage. Gibson's absence has left the No. 1 job to Matt Hackett, but he has a .892 save percentage and a 3.20 goals-against average. However, the Gulls have a blend of veterans (center Chris Mueller, plus defensemen Stu Bickel and Joe Piskula) with several top-notch rookies including defenseman Shea Theodore. Rookie Brandon Montour has emerged on the San Diego blue line and leads all AHL defenseman with 22 points (five goals, 17 assists).
Toronto Marlies: The Toronto Maple Leafs have stressed that their lengthy rebuilding project will involve the Marlies significantly. Management has also made it clear that a prospect will not be rushed to the NHL after one good weekend in the AHL, and the AHL will not simply be a quick stop in the development process for young prospects. A legitimate Calder Cup contender, the Marlies are proving that player development and winning can co-exist. Their 37 points lead the AHL, and they feature a lineup packed with heralded prospects and interesting projects, all of it young. At 19 years old, forward William Nylander leads the AHL in scoring with 29 points (13 goals, 16 assists) in 22 games.
International duty: The AHL could have a few of its prominent young scorers in Finland later this month for the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship. Toronto's Kasperi Kapanen and Mikko Rantanen of San Antonio could join the Finnish team. Kapanen has five goals and four assists in nine AHL games, and Rantanen has 19 points in 15 games (six goals, 13 assists) with the Rampage. Nylander and Ontario's Adrian Kempe were invited to Sweden's training camp, and Lake Erie's Sonny Milano will take part in the United States' evaluation camp.
Forward Jakub Vrana of the Hershey Bears would have been a likely candidate to represent the Czech Republic, but he has been limited to three games because of a wrist injury that will keep him out until the second half of the season.
Changes in net: The goaltending picture for the Stockton Heat continues to change. Rookie Jon Gillies will have hip surgery Wednesday in Nashville and miss the rest of the season. The surgery is expect to keep him out of action for 4-6 months.
The 21-year-old, who is 6-foot-6 and 235 pounds, started his first pro season with Stockton after three seasons with Providence College of Hockey East. A third-round pick (No. 75, Calgary Flames) in the 2012 NHL Draft, Gillies played seven games with the Heat, going 2-3-1. He has a 2.31 GAA and a .920 save percentage.
Last in the Pacific Division, the Heat have already used six goaltenders, including Joni Ortio and Karri Ramo. Calgary acquired Kevin Poulin from the Tampa Bay Lightning after Gillies was sidelined, but he has not played for Stockton since Nov. 21 because of an injury.
For now, Stockton will be going with Ortio and Kent Simpson. Ortio has a 3.75 GAA and a .860 save percentage in four games. Simpson's five games rank him second among Stockton goaltenders, but he has a 1-4-0-1 record to go with his 3.63 GAA and .857 save percentage.
AHL Game of the Week: Albany continues to surprise while the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have hit their first rough patch. The Penguins lost each of their three games last weekend. With games against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms and Syracuse Crunch this week before Albany visits Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza on Saturday, the schedule will not ease up at all on the Penguins. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton won the first game of season series 5-3 on Nov. 21 at Albany.
Around the AHL: Texas Stars rookie Devin Shore holds the AHL lead in goals with 15…Ontario Reign goaltender Peter Budaj's 1.56 GAA leads the AHL, and he is in a three-way tie for a league-best .938 save percentage. After going 0-9-6-0 last season with the St. John's IceCaps, Budaj's 12 wins rank third in the league…The Lake Erie Monsters signed veteran center Manny Malhotra. The 35-year-old, who played eight games with the Charlotte Checkers in 2013-14, has an assist in his first three games with the Monsters… Lake Erie also signed defenseman Jan Hejda to an AHL tryout contract Monday. Hejda, 37, has 25 goals, 135 points and 317 penalty minutes in 627 NHL games with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche… Toronto goaltender Jonathan Bernier has two shutouts in two games. He is with the Marlies on a conditioning assignment from the Maple Leafs and is expected to play two more games this weekend before his assignment ends… Albany will have goaltender Scott Wedgewood back in the lineup after he sustained an ankle injury that sidelined him for nearly two months…Four more AHL players played their first NHL game last week, taking the season total to 56 players.
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PASCAL DUPUIS'S HOCKEY CAREER IS OVER BECAUSE OF BLOOD CLOTS:
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Pascal Dupuis will no longer play hockey because of a medical condition related to blood clots, Dupuis and the team announced today.
Dupuis, 36, had played 18 games this season while taking blood thinners but experienced several recent medical incidents possibly related to his condition. He had to be removed from several games – most recently on December 1 at San Jose – and each time had to undergo a series of tests.
"Despite playing on a medical protocol that has worked for other players in the NHL, we feel that the risk of Pascal playing with his condition and the side effects of the tests to monitor him are just not in the best interest of his long-term health," said Dr. Dharmesh Vyas, the Penguins' team physician.
NASHVILLE 3 - BOSTON 2
MINNESOTA 2 - COLORADO 1 (OT)
BUFFALO 2 - VANCOUVER 5
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[: TOP 250, REST-OF-SEASON FANTASY HOCKEY RATINGS (ACCORDING TO SEAN ALLEN ON ESPN [http://es.pn/1N9XjUG]):
RANK/PLAYER/POSITION/TEAM POSRANK LAST WEEK
1. Patrick Kane, RW, Chi RW1 2
2. Alex Ovechkin, RW, Was RW2 1
3. Jamie Benn, LW, Dal LW1 3
4. Tyler Seguin, C, Dal C1 4
5. John Tavares, C, NYI C2 5
6. Evgeni Malkin, C, Pit C3 6
7. Vladimir Tarasenko, RW, StL RW3 7
8. Erik Karlsson, D, Ott D1 9
9. Joe Pavelski, C, SJ C4 8
10. Henrik Lundqvist, G, NYR G1 10
11. Steven Stamkos, C, TB C5 11
12. Claude Giroux, C, Phi C6 14
13. Sidney Crosby, C, Pit C7 12
14. Taylor Hall, LW, Edm LW2 21
15. Max Pacioretty, LW, Mon LW3 15
16. P.K. Subban, D, Mon D2 13
17. Nicklas Backstrom, C, Was C8 16
18. Braden Holtby, G, Was G2 17
19. Ryan Johansen, C, Cls C9 19
20. Dustin Byfuglien, D, Wpg D3 22
21. Corey Perry, RW, Ana RW4 20
22. Cory Schneider, G, NJ G3 25
23. Nathan MacKinnon, C, Col C10 23
24. Brent Burns, D, SJ D4 26
25. Marc-Andre Fleury, G, Pit G4 18
26. Phil Kessel, RW, Pit RW5 24
27. Henrik Zetterberg, C, Det C11 27
28. Rick Nash, LW, NYR LW4 29
29. Daniel Sedin, LW, Van LW5 30
30. Jake Allen, G, StL G5 28
31. Johnny Gaudreau, LW, Cgy LW6 31
32. Jonathan Quick, G, LA G6 36
33. Ryan Getzlaf, C, Ana C12 33
34. Zach Parise, LW, Min LW7 34
35. Jakub Voracek, RW, Phi RW6 35
36. John Klingberg, D, Dal D5 46
37. Ben Bishop, G, TB G7 44
38. Blake Wheeler, RW, Wpg RW7 38
39. Pekka Rinne, G, Nsh G8 32
40. Patrice Bergeron, C, Bos C13 39
41. Corey Crawford, G, Chi G9 37
42. Martin Jones, G, SJ G10 42
43. Gabriel Landeskog, LW, Col LW8 40
44. Alexander Steen, LW, StL LW9 41
45. Jeff Carter, RW, LA RW8 48
46. Devan Dubnyk, G, Min G11 45
47. David Krejci, C, Bos C14 47
48. Tyler Johnson, C, TB C15 43
49. Jaroslav Halak, G, NYI G12 49
50. Kyle Turris, C, Ott C16 50
51. Mark Stone, RW, Ott RW9 51
52. Evgeny Kuznetsov, C, Was C17 61
53. Jonathan Toews, C, Chi C18 52
54. Nikita Kucherov, RW, TB RW10 53
55. T.J. Oshie, RW, Was RW11 54
56. Jason Spezza, C, Dal C19 55
57. Tomas Plekanec, C, Mon C20 65
58. Jiri Hudler, RW, Cgy RW12 56
59. Marian Hossa, RW, Chi RW13 57
60. Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Cls G13 58
61. Anze Kopitar, C, LA C21 59
62. Andrew Ladd, LW, Wpg LW10 60
63. Matt Duchene, C, Col C22 72
64. Pavel Datsyuk, C, Det C23 62
65. James Neal, LW, Nsh LW11 63
66. Roman Josi, D, Nsh D6 64
67. Henrik Sedin, C, Van C24 66
68. Roberto Luongo, G, Fla G14 67
69. Artemi Panarin, C, Chi C25 77
70. Patrick Sharp, LW, Dal LW12 68
71. John Carlson, D, Was D7 69
72. Andrei Markov, D, Mon D8 70
73. Mike Cammalleri, LW, NJ LW13 90
74. Shea Weber, D, Nsh D9 78
75. Kyle Okposo, RW, NYI RW14 71
76. Mike Hoffman, LW, Ott LW14 91
77. Chris Kreider, LW, NYR LW15 73
78. Victor Hedman, D, TB D10 74
79. Tyler Toffoli, RW, LA RW15 75
80. Jordan Eberle, RW, Edm RW16 76
81. Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D, Ari D11 84
82. Duncan Keith, D, Chi D12 79
83. Kevin Shattenkirk, D, StL D13 85
84. Tuukka Rask, G, Bos G15 80
85. Brad Marchand, LW, Bos LW16 93
86. Joe Thornton, C, SJ C26 81
87. Derick Brassard, C, NYR C27 82
88. Scott Hartnell, LW, Cls LW17 83
89. Leon Draisaitl, C, Edm C28 86
90. David Backes, C, StL C29 87
91. Carey Price, G, Mon G16 95
92. Mats Zuccarello, RW, NYR RW17 97
93. Filip Forsberg, C, Nsh C30 88
94. Justin Faulk, D, Car D14 94
95. Gustav Nyquist, RW, Det RW18 92
96. Ryan Suter, D, Min D15 105
97. Drew Doughty, D, LA D16 119
98. Torey Krug, D, Bos D17 96
99. Max Domi, C, Ari C31 107
100. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, C, Edm C32 98
101. Brandon Saad, LW, Cls LW18 99
102. Dylan Larkin, C, Det C33 120
103. Ryan O'Reilly, RW, Buf RW19 110
104. Eric Staal, C, Car C34 100
105. Adam Henrique, C, NJ C35 129
106. Bobby Ryan, RW, Ott RW20 101
107. Wayne Simmonds, LW, Phi LW19 102
108. Alex Pietrangelo, D, StL D18 103
109. Bryan Little, C, Wpg C36 104
110. Ryan Miller, G, Van G17 89
111. Keith Yandle, D, NYR D19 106
112. Mark Giordano, D, Cgy D20 108
113. Nick Foligno, LW, Cls LW20 109
114. Nazem Kadri, C, Tor C37 130
115. Loui Eriksson, LW, Bos LW21 133
116. Zdeno Chara, D, Bos D21 138
117. Patrick Marleau, LW, SJ LW22 111
118. Alex Galchenyuk, LW, Mon LW23 122
119. Sean Monahan, C, Cgy C38 112
120. Kris Letang, D, Pit D22 113
121. Radim Vrbata, RW, Van RW21 114
122. Jaromir Jagr, RW, Fla RW22 115
123. Jason Pominville, RW, Min RW23 116
124. Tomas Tatar, LW, Det LW24 117
125. Petr Mrazek, G, Det G18 134
126. Milan Lucic, LW, LA LW25 121
127. Alexander Edler, D, Van D23 123
128. Jack Eichel, C, Buf C39 124
129. Steve Mason, G, Phi G19 125
130. Boone Jenner, RW, Cls RW24 126
131. Logan Couture, C, SJ C40 127
132. Jarome Iginla, RW, Col RW25 128
133. Ondrej Palat, LW, TB LW26 131
134. Paul Stastny, C, StL C41 132
135. James van Riemsdyk, LW, Tor LW27 135
136. Mikko Koivu, C, Min C42 136
137. Tyson Barrie, D, Col D24 137
138. Evander Kane, LW, Buf LW28 139
139. Thomas Vanek, LW, Min LW29 140
140. Frederik Andersen, G, Ana G20 118
141. Connor Hellebuyck, G, Wpg G21 226
142. Derek Stepan, C, NYR C43 141
143. Aaron Ekblad, D, Fla D25 142
144. Jonathan Huberdeau, LW, Fla LW30 143
145. Brock Nelson, C, NYI C44 144
146. Ryan McDonagh, D, NYR D26 171
147. Antti Niemi, G, Dal G22 145
148. Justin Williams, RW, Was RW26 169
149. Kari Lehtonen, G, Dal G23 146
150. Nick Bjugstad, C, Fla C45 147
151. Nikolaj Ehlers, LW, Wpg LW31 148
152. Semyon Varlamov, G, Col G24 162
153. Mikkel Boedker, LW, Ari LW32 149
154. Justin Abdelkader, LW, Det LW33 150
155. Mark Scheifele, C, Wpg C46 151
156. Craig Anderson, G, Ott G25 152
157. Dion Phaneuf, D, Tor D27 153
158. Aleksander Barkov, C, Fla C47 154
159. Kyle Palmieri, RW, NJ RW27 174
160. Marian Gaborik, RW, LA RW28 155
161. Ryan Kesler, C, Ana C48 156
162. Martin Hanzal, C, Ari C49 157
163. John Gibson, G, Ana G26 N/R
164. James Reimer, G, Tor G27 158
165. Jason Zucker, LW, Min LW34 159
166. Niklas Kronwall, D, Det D28 160
167. Rasmus Ristolainen, D, Buf D29 193
168. Reto Berra, G, Col G28 161
169. Anders Nilsson, G, Edm G29 N/R
170. Mika Zibanejad, RW, Ott RW29 163
171. Ryan Callahan, RW, TB RW30 164
172. Johnny Boychuk, D, NYI D30 165
173. Brent Seabrook, D, Chi D31 166
174. Brendan Gallagher, RW, Mon RW31 167
175. Mikael Granlund, C, Min C50 168
176. Jimmy Howard, G, Det G30 170
177. Patric Hornqvist, RW, Pit RW32 172
178. Nino Niederreiter, RW, Min RW33 173
179. Sami Vatanen, D, Ana D32 175
180. Jonathan Drouin, LW, TB LW35 176
181. Colin Wilson, LW, Nsh LW36 177
182. Jori Lehtera, C, StL C51 178
183. Brandon Dubinsky, C, Cls C52 179
184. Mike Condon, G, Mon G31 250
185. Mike Ribeiro, C, Nsh C53 180
186. Lee Stempniak, RW, NJ RW34 221
187. Ryan Strome, C, NYI C54 181
188. Matt Moulson, LW, Buf LW37 182
189. Anders Lee, LW, NYI LW38 183
190. Chris Kunitz, LW, Pit LW39 184
191. Artem Anisimov, C, Chi C55 185
192. Elias Lindholm, C, Car C56 186
193. Troy Brouwer, RW, StL RW35 187
194. Mathieu Perreault, C, Wpg C57 188
195. Joffrey Lupul, LW, Tor LW40 189
196. Dennis Wideman, D, Cgy D33 190
197. Joel Ward, RW, SJ RW36 212
198. Connor McDavid, C, Edm C58 191
199. Tyler Ennis, C, Buf C59 192
200. Tanner Pearson, LW, LA LW41 194
201. Drew Stafford, RW, Wpg RW37 195
202. Brayden Schenn, C, Phi C60 196
203. Brian Elliott, G, StL G32 197
204. Mike Smith, G, Ari G33 198
205. Craig Smith, RW, Nsh RW38 199
206. David Pastrnak, LW, Bos LW42 200
207. Victor Rask, C, Car C61 231
208. Frans Nielsen, C, NYI C62 243
209. Michal Neuvirth, G, Phi G34 201
210. Reilly Smith, RW, Fla RW39 202
211. Kevin Hayes, C, NYR C63 203
212. Jaden Schwartz, LW, StL LW43 204
213. Hampus Lindholm, D, Ana D34 205
214. Anton Stralman, D, TB D35 206
215. Jeff Skinner, LW, Car LW44 207
216. Jason Demers, D, Dal D36 208
217. Erik Johnson, D, Col D37 209
218. Karri Ramo, G, Cgy G35 210
219. Dougie Hamilton, D, Cgy D38 211
220. Shayne Gostisbehere, D, Phi D39 225
221. Valtteri Filppula, C, TB C64 213
222. Cam Atkinson, RW, Cls RW40 214
223. Colton Parayko, D, StL D40 215
224. Ryan Ellis, D, Nsh D41 216
225. Mike Green, D, Det D42 217
226. Michael Hutchinson, G, Wpg G36 218
227. Nail Yakupov, RW, Edm RW41 219
228. Teemu Pulkkinen, LW, Det LW45 220
229. Marcus Johansson, LW, Was LW46 222
230. Josh Bailey, LW, NYI LW47 223
231. Jimmy Hayes, RW, Bos RW42 224
232. Jake Muzzin, D, LA D43 N/R
233. David Desharnais, C, Mon C65 227
234. Cam Fowler, D, Ana D44 228
235. Kris Versteeg, RW, Car RW43 229
236. Anthony Duclair, LW, Ari LW48 230
237. Ryan Spooner, C, Bos C66 232
238. Jhonas Enroth, G, LA G37 233
239. Francois Beauchemin, D, Col D45 234
240. Jonas Hiller, G, Cgy G38 235
241. Dale Weise, RW, Mon RW44 N/R
242. Jannik Hansen, RW, Van RW45 237
243. Scott Darling, G, Chi G39 238
244. Mark Streit, D, Phi D46 239
245. Morgan Rielly, D, Tor D47 240
246. Cam Ward, G, Car G40 241
247. Carl Soderberg, C, Col C67 242
248. Michael Stone, D, Ari D48 244
249. Teuvo Teravainen, LW, Chi LW49 245
250. Oscar Lindberg, C, NYR C68 N/R
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[: AROUND THE LEAGUE NOTEBOOK - MONDAY, DEC. 7 (FROM NHL [http://bit.ly/1ID3LES]):
AVALANCHE HONOR 20TH ANNIVERSARY TEAM
The Colorado Avalanche honored their 20th Anniversary Team, as selected by the fans, at Pepsi Center in the second half of their home-and-home series with the Minnesota Wild. The night included a special pre-game ceremony as well as a memorable 'Jerseys Off Our Backs' presentation, headlined by Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, Patrick Roy, Ray Bourque, Adam Foote, Rob Blake, Sandis Ozolinsh, Valeri Kamensky and Milan Hejduk, among others.
* Click here to watch the entire pre-game ceremony.
MONDAY'S RESULTS
Home Team in CAPS
Nashville 3, BOSTON 2
COLORADO 2, Minnesota 1 (OT)
VANCOUVER 5, Buffalo 2
VRBATA, CANUCKS SNAP FIVE-GAME LOSING SKID
Radim Vrbata (3-0—3) recorded his first hat trick as a member of the Canucks (106 GP) to help the Vancouver Canucks end their five-game winless streak (0-3-2).
* Vrbata’s three-goal outing was the sixth hat trick of his NHL career (898 GP) and his first since Oct. 3, 2013 vs. NYR w/ PHX (3-0—3).
* Daniel Sedin (0-2—2) and Henrik Sedin (1-0—1) rank first and second on the Canucks in points this season with 12-19—31 and 9-18—27, respectively (29 GP each).
* The Canucks are 8-1-1 in their past 10 home games vs. BUF dating to March 16, 2000 (BUF: 1-8-1), which includes three straight victories.
PREDATORS RALLY AGAINST BRUINS
The Nashville Predators overcame 1-0 and 2-1 deficits via two power-play goals by Roman Josi (2-0—2) and Viktor Arvidsson scored the go-ahead marker at 15:04 of the third period to end the Boston Bruins' point streak at eight games (6-0-2).
* With three power-play goals (27 GP), Josi equaled his single-season career high from 2014-15 (81 GP) and 2013-14 (72 GP).
* Nashville defensemen have combined for five power-play goals over the past two games. Per Elias, the Predators lead the NHL in goals (23) and power-play goals (12) from their defensemen this season.
MITCHELL LEADS AVALANCHE PAST WILD
After Zach Parise tied the contest with 6:09 remaining in the third period, John Mitchell scored his first career overtime goal at 3:35 of the extra frame and the Avalanche evaded a home-and-home sweep at the hands of the Wild.
* Tyson Barrie (1-1—2) factored on each of the Avalanche's goals and leads their defensemen in assists and points with 3-15—18 this season (25 GP).
* Matt Duchene (0-1—1) assisted on Mitchell's overtime-winner and has 13-10—23 since the beginning of November (18 GP) after posting 1-1—2 in the month of October (10 GP).
MILESTONES & BENCHMARKS
* Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron (0-1—1) registered his 575th career point (214-361—575 in 766 GP) and tied Milt Schmidt (229-346—575 in 776 GP) for 11th on the Bruins' all-time points list.
* Avalanche goaltender Semyon Varlamov (19 saves) appeared in his 225th career game with the team and tied Dan Bouchard for third on the all-time Avalanche/Nordiques games played list among goaltenders. The two goalies with more: Peter Budaj (242 GP) and Patrick Roy (478 GP).
* Vancouver forward Brandon Prust (1-1—2) scored his first goal as a member of the Canucks (18 GP).
LOOSE PUCKS
The Predators earned their first win at BOS since Nov. 28, 2003 (2-1 W), ending a five-game road losing streak (0-3-2). … Predators defenseman Shea Weber (0-2—2) has 3-2—5 in his past two games and 3-5—8 in his past four. Weber extended his point streak vs. BOS to seven games (3-6—9). ... Predators goaltender Carter Hutton (15 saves) is 3-1-0 this season (2.74 GAA, .907 SV%). ... Wild forward Zach Parise (1-0—1) has 11-15—26 in 24 career regular-season games vs. COL. ... Canucks goaltender Ryan Miller made 32 saves to earn his second career victory against his former team (2-1-0). ... Sabres forward Sam Reinhart (1-0—1) has four goals in his past five games (4-0—4). ... Sabres forward Jamie McGinn (0-1—1) extended his point streak to a career-high six games (2-5—7). ... Sabres forward Ryan O'Reilly (0-1—1) extended his point streak to five games (2-4—6). ... Sweden, Finland and the United States released their selection camp rosters ahead of the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship in Helsinki, Finland. ... Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson, Predators defenseman Shea Weber and New Jersey Devils left wing Mike Cammalleri were named the NHL's "Three Stars" for the week ending Dec. 6. ... ICYMI: The Canucks honored former players Markus Naslund, Todd Bertuzzi, and Brendan Morrison – who played on a line nicknamed the West Coast Express – prior to puck-drop at Rogers Arena.
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AHL NOTEBOOK: SIX TEAMS WITH COMPELLING STORYLINES (FROM NHL [http://bit.ly/1jMHc55]):
American Hockey League teams are nearly a third of the way through the regular season. As usual, preseason predictions have withered away in a league where lineups change daily, breakthrough seasons are the norm for still-developing prospects and the fortunes of NHL parent teams filter down to the AHL level.
Here are six teams with intriguing storylines that have emerged:
Albany Devils: The surprising Devils have used a six-game winning streak and an 8-1-1-0 record in their past 10 games to ascend to a second-place tie in the AHL with 33 points. The New Jersey Devils' AHL affiliate has reached the Calder Cup Playoffs twice since 2000, with each visit ending in a first-round loss. However, this Albany team could be the strongest edition of a New Jersey affiliate since the 1990s, when Albany helped to fuel three Stanley Cup championships for New Jersey.
Ontario Reign: In a league where a compact schedule means a stumble can rapidly snowball into a losing streak, the defending Calder Cup champion has managed to avoid any major slumps. Ontario was swept in a three-game weekend Oct. 30-Nov. 1 and then proceeded win seven of its next eight games. The AHL schedule also heavily emphasizes divisional play, and Ontario has gone 9-4-2-0 against the Pacific Division. The Reign's .737 winning percentage leads the Western Conference.
Portland Pirates: More could be expected from a team ranked seventh in the AHL with 3.05 goals per game. Forward Rob Schremp leads the Pirates with 16 points (eight goals, eight assists), but there is a balanced offensive mix that has powered coach Tom Rowe's team. However, the Pirates have not been able to keep the puck out of their own net, even though their 26.8 shots-against per game is fifth-best in the AHL. Veteran goaltender Mike McKenna has the starting job, but he has struggled with a .886 save percentage. In all, the Pirates' 19 points rank them last in the Atlantic Division.
Rockford forward Ryan Hartman has 10 goals in 21 games. (Photo: Todd Riecher/Rockford IceHogs)
Rockford IceHogs: Rockford has teamed winning with producing talent for the Chicago Blackhawks; the IceHogs lead the Western Conference with 33 points. A vital part in producing key parts of the Blackhawks' three Stanley Cup championships since 2010, the Chicago-Rockford pipeline has also helped to replenish the NHL roster after salary-cap needs have ravaged it. Stationed in the tough Central Division, the IceHogs have won six of their past seven games. Their goaltending is a blend of a proven AHL veteran in Michael Leighton and an interesting reclamation project in Mark Visentin, a first-round pick (No. 27, Arizona Coyotes) in the 2010 NHL Draft. Another first-round pick, forward Ryan Hartman, has 10 goals in 21 games. Defenseman Ville Pokka, a key piece in the Nick Leddy trade with the New York Islanders, could be in Chicago before long.
San Diego Gulls: A 2-7-0-1 slide has left the Gulls fourth in the Pacific Division and trying to fend off the San Jose Barracuda and Bakersfield Condors. Part of the skid can be explained by goaltender John Gibson's recall to the Anaheim Ducks, but Gibson has not been a dominant AHL goaltender this season, managing a .917 save percentage. Gibson's absence has left the No. 1 job to Matt Hackett, but he has a .892 save percentage and a 3.20 goals-against average. However, the Gulls have a blend of veterans (center Chris Mueller, plus defensemen Stu Bickel and Joe Piskula) with several top-notch rookies including defenseman Shea Theodore. Rookie Brandon Montour has emerged on the San Diego blue line and leads all AHL defenseman with 22 points (five goals, 17 assists).
Toronto Marlies: The Toronto Maple Leafs have stressed that their lengthy rebuilding project will involve the Marlies significantly. Management has also made it clear that a prospect will not be rushed to the NHL after one good weekend in the AHL, and the AHL will not simply be a quick stop in the development process for young prospects. A legitimate Calder Cup contender, the Marlies are proving that player development and winning can co-exist. Their 37 points lead the AHL, and they feature a lineup packed with heralded prospects and interesting projects, all of it young. At 19 years old, forward William Nylander leads the AHL in scoring with 29 points (13 goals, 16 assists) in 22 games.
International duty: The AHL could have a few of its prominent young scorers in Finland later this month for the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship. Toronto's Kasperi Kapanen and Mikko Rantanen of San Antonio could join the Finnish team. Kapanen has five goals and four assists in nine AHL games, and Rantanen has 19 points in 15 games (six goals, 13 assists) with the Rampage. Nylander and Ontario's Adrian Kempe were invited to Sweden's training camp, and Lake Erie's Sonny Milano will take part in the United States' evaluation camp.
Forward Jakub Vrana of the Hershey Bears would have been a likely candidate to represent the Czech Republic, but he has been limited to three games because of a wrist injury that will keep him out until the second half of the season.
Changes in net: The goaltending picture for the Stockton Heat continues to change. Rookie Jon Gillies will have hip surgery Wednesday in Nashville and miss the rest of the season. The surgery is expect to keep him out of action for 4-6 months.
The 21-year-old, who is 6-foot-6 and 235 pounds, started his first pro season with Stockton after three seasons with Providence College of Hockey East. A third-round pick (No. 75, Calgary Flames) in the 2012 NHL Draft, Gillies played seven games with the Heat, going 2-3-1. He has a 2.31 GAA and a .920 save percentage.
Last in the Pacific Division, the Heat have already used six goaltenders, including Joni Ortio and Karri Ramo. Calgary acquired Kevin Poulin from the Tampa Bay Lightning after Gillies was sidelined, but he has not played for Stockton since Nov. 21 because of an injury.
For now, Stockton will be going with Ortio and Kent Simpson. Ortio has a 3.75 GAA and a .860 save percentage in four games. Simpson's five games rank him second among Stockton goaltenders, but he has a 1-4-0-1 record to go with his 3.63 GAA and .857 save percentage.
AHL Game of the Week: Albany continues to surprise while the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have hit their first rough patch. The Penguins lost each of their three games last weekend. With games against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms and Syracuse Crunch this week before Albany visits Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza on Saturday, the schedule will not ease up at all on the Penguins. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton won the first game of season series 5-3 on Nov. 21 at Albany.
Around the AHL: Texas Stars rookie Devin Shore holds the AHL lead in goals with 15…Ontario Reign goaltender Peter Budaj's 1.56 GAA leads the AHL, and he is in a three-way tie for a league-best .938 save percentage. After going 0-9-6-0 last season with the St. John's IceCaps, Budaj's 12 wins rank third in the league…The Lake Erie Monsters signed veteran center Manny Malhotra. The 35-year-old, who played eight games with the Charlotte Checkers in 2013-14, has an assist in his first three games with the Monsters… Lake Erie also signed defenseman Jan Hejda to an AHL tryout contract Monday. Hejda, 37, has 25 goals, 135 points and 317 penalty minutes in 627 NHL games with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche… Toronto goaltender Jonathan Bernier has two shutouts in two games. He is with the Marlies on a conditioning assignment from the Maple Leafs and is expected to play two more games this weekend before his assignment ends… Albany will have goaltender Scott Wedgewood back in the lineup after he sustained an ankle injury that sidelined him for nearly two months…Four more AHL players played their first NHL game last week, taking the season total to 56 players.
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PASCAL DUPUIS'S HOCKEY CAREER IS OVER BECAUSE OF BLOOD CLOTS:
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Pascal Dupuis will no longer play hockey because of a medical condition related to blood clots, Dupuis and the team announced today.
Dupuis, 36, had played 18 games this season while taking blood thinners but experienced several recent medical incidents possibly related to his condition. He had to be removed from several games – most recently on December 1 at San Jose – and each time had to undergo a series of tests.
"Despite playing on a medical protocol that has worked for other players in the NHL, we feel that the risk of Pascal playing with his condition and the side effects of the tests to monitor him are just not in the best interest of his long-term health," said Dr. Dharmesh Vyas, the Penguins' team physician.
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