The week’s almost over, DBDers. Let’s take a moment to contemplate the understated splendor of Joe Pavelski.
The Dallas Stars have done some adjusting this summer, and not all of it has been happy. Joe Pavelski’s veteran leadership has made him almost as beloved of Stars fans as he still is to the San Jose Sharks’ faithful – and the thought of the coming season without him may leave you a little wistful.
Head coach Pete DeBoer had the luck to work with Pavs twice, with the Stars and with the Sharks. On the occasion of Joe’s retirement, he shared his thoughts for posterity:
“…[H]e has that innate ability to rise to the occasion and the toughest games. I think it starts with his character and leadership…. That’s the great thing that Joe has found. You still got to enjoy the day-to-day grind of what we do for a living…. I hope our young guys got a piece of that.”
Wyatt Johnston is one of those young guys – and he seconds his coach:
“I’ve learned so much from him, you know … in terms of on ice, but just away from the rink…. And, you know, it’s not just me that he’s had a huge impact on. It’s everyone. It’s the whole organization.”
Still too soon? We understand. But we’ll leave this here for when you’re ready. This is the latest episode of Open Ice, and it’s called, simply, “Pavs.”
Stars Stuff
It’s never too early to start planning for your future happiness, and Stars Night at the Roughriders should be a good time indeed.
Around The Leagues
- You want some Olympics on your Olympics? Wyatt Johnston and Emil Hemming make Carol Schram’s list of under-25 NHLers who could suit up for their national teams. [The Hockey News]
- Christian Rupp has posted a great story on Seattle Kraken goalie Philipp Grubauer and the saves he’s making off the ice in his work with mistreated horses. [NHL]
- And how could it be otherwise? “Mitch Marner To Anywhere Out Of Toronto” tops Joe Yerdon’s list of six 2024 offseason trades that should have happened. [Bleacher Report]
Finally
If Blake can do the Angry Bieksa, sign this man. Enjoy.