Training Camp Update

One of the main talking points to come out of yesterday’s first day of Training Camp was the fact that Paul Kariya took no part. According to JD, Kariya had been experiencing some “tightness” and they held him out as a precaution. Kariya has been working extremely hard and it sounds like maybe he’s pushed himself a tiny bit too much. It doesn’t seem anything to worry about and he could be back on ice in the next day or two.

Others not taking part were Hannu Toivonen who had a cut on his leg; Cam Paddock who is still recovering from surgery; Lars Eller with what we now know is a mild case of Mono; Daryl Sydor with a mild muscle irritation; Alex Steen whose wife went into labour and, of course, Eric Brewer who is now back on his feet and skating. Ryan Turek also did not take part due to illness.

Conditioning sessions were the order of the day yesterday and the players were split into six groups. Session winners yesterday were Andy McDonald who by all reports is absolutely flying around the ice and looks in terrific shape; Yan Stastny; TJ Oshie; Chris Porter; Jonas Junland and Philip McRae.

Other points from yesterday were that David Perron set the fastest time and has added 22 pounds of muscle since he was drafted – he looks eager and hungry. EJ has added about 20 pounds and was second only to Roman Polak (who is leaner and fitter) in the Blues fitness testing.

Former Blue, Manny Legace, is in the Thrashers Training Camp whilst Dan Hinote is with San Jose. Best of luck to both of them.

Sources: Andy Strickland; Jeremy Rutherford and Chris Kerber