PHT’s Morning Skate takes a look around the world of hockey to see what’s happening and what we’ll be talking about around the NHL world and beyond.
Sad news for Mr. Hockey and his family: Gordie Howe’s sons confirmed that he’s coping with dementia. (Fan 590 via George Malik)
On the heels of Dennis Seidenberg’s center ice goal, Joe Haggerty wonders why defensemen don’t take more slap shots from out far. Then again, Mikael Samuelsson showed that forwards might want to throw a few more long-distance pucks on net, too. (CSNNE.com)
The Denver Post’s Mike Chambers reveals that this isn’t the first time that Peter Mueller and Erik Johnson have been teammates. Follow the link for a photo of the duo at the precocious age of 11 or 12. (Denver Post)
Jamie Benn and Michael Ryder scored a goal and two assists each as the Dallas Stars handled the Anaheim Ducks 6-2 last night. Mike Heika has the details and quotes. (Dallas Morning News)
Mark Recchi shares his thoughts after acting as one of the coaches in the CHL Top Prospects Game. (NHL.com)
Speaking of which, check out some of the tricks Andreas Athanasiou pulls off in this video:
Jim Vandermeer is learning to adjust to playing the forward position after several years as a hard-nosed defenseman. (CSNBayArea.com)
Chicago Blackhawks rookie Andrew Shaw logged the most minutes of any forward on the team in the last two games. Not bad. (Chicago Tribune)
The Carolina Hurricanes are expecting an angry Boston Bruins team tonight. (News & Observer)
Edmonton Oilers players who hope to come back from injury must pass Tom Renney’s “U-test.” Ryan Whitney says that “it puts fear in everyone.” (Edmonton Journal)
Niklas Hagman is making a good impression on the Anaheim Ducks. (OC Register)