Welcome to the PHT Morning Skate, a collection of links from around the hockey world. Have a link you want to submit? Email us at phtblog@nbcsports.com.
• Find out a little bit more about Nicklas Backstrom’s new contract extension with Washington. (Nova Caps)
• Here’s a list of five-under-the-radar rookies that could compete for the Calder Trophy. (The Hockey News)
• Three-on-three hockey is awesome, but don’t expect to see much more of it going forward. (TSN)
• Martin Brodeur is hoping to get a bigger role with the Devils going forward. (NHL.com)
• Check out Elliott Friedman’s latest 31 thoughts blog. (Sportsnet)
• Even though hockey has changed a lot, there’s still a need for “muscle”. (National Post)
• Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an effective pest in the NHL? (ESPN)
• Sabres top prospect Dylan Cozens is inspiring a lot of young athletes in Yukon. (New York Times)
• Alex Ovechkin has decided which game he’ll miss as part of his suspension for skipping the All-Star game. (Washington Post)
• NBC Sports Boston breaks down the 10 best left wingers in hockey. Do you agree with this list? (NBC Sports Boston)
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Joey Alfieri is a writer for Pro Hockey Talk on NBC Sports. Drop him a line at phtblog@nbcsports.com or follow him on Twitter @joeyalfieri.