Pros and Controversy.

With two capable goalies to choose from John Stevens is riding the hot into New York tonight to take on the boys in blue. I have already read the word controversy at least 5 times in the past 24 hours. As of right now, I do not think that is the case, but Frank could be making a strong argument that states otherwise. In the beginning of the season Nitty was asked what he thought of having Biron as the clear cut starter for the season. While I don't know the exact quote I do remember it being something to the nature of, "It doesn't matter to me, because I'm going to take my job back anyway." Nitty has made the most of his starts this season and has earned each one he got. I commend John Stevens for rewarding Nitty with the start tonight, but I also thing the Sweden Finland match up always plays into this decision as well. A game against Lundqvuist will always make it a bit easier for Nitty to elevate his play.

There have been some reports that we could see some players back in the lineup tonight, but the roster moves show that it may not be as many players as initially reported. The big news is that Gagne is possible to return, which would be huge for the team, and more specifically Briere. It doesn't appear Upshall or Smith will be back in the lineup. Kapanen is probably going to be out again as well. The only player that has been sent down is Potulny. They may be keeping to other kids as insurance, and scratch them right before the game, but I think we will see some more Phantoms in the game tonight.

Around the NHL:

There has been some interesting buzzing going on around the NHL that deserves some attention. First and foremost, welcome back to hockey Bob Clarke. Clarke recently interviewed with TSN.ca and supported Steve Downies eye shattering punch to Jason Blake. It was te first time someone actually acknowledged that this was an incident that Blake brought upon himself. Thanks, Bob, I don't miss you as a GM but any support you have to offer during this time of sissified hockey speak up, please.

Alex Ovechkin has been reported as rejecting the Caps contract extension. I can't blame him either. This is an organization that drafted one of the most talented players in the league and in the three years he has been with the team done nothing to put a solid supporting cast around him. This is a team that by now should be competing for a playoff spot with him on the roster, instead they are going to lose the only draw the DC market has to hockey.

And finally, Foresberg rumors are afoot. Of course the Flyers would want a healthy Foresberg, who wouldn't? Let's just wait and see how it pans out. I am tired of hearing about Peter golfing with Timonen so he must be returning to Philly.