MiHockey’s Ben Fleck here with on this overcast Tuesday morning.
Quick hits
Puck Daddy released the first player ratings for EA Sports’ NHL ’13. Detroit Red Wings Pavel Datsyuk is the top rated forward for this year’s installment of the hit game, and Ryan Miller is the top goaltender. NHL ’13 hits shelves Sept. 11.
Max Pacioretty, Montreal’s point’s leader from last year and former Michigan star, is staying with the Canadians after the two sides agreed to a six-year contract extension, which begins with the start of the 2013-2014 season.
The U.S. Under-18 team fell to Russia 2-1 in a shootout in their opening game at the Ivan Hlinka Tournament.
Highlight reel
Sticking with yesterday’s theme of NHL ’13, here is a video that shows you how defensive positioning and smart passing will effect this year’s gameplay.
Outside the Mitten
Last season’s Conn Smythe Trophy winner, Jonathan Quick, underwent back surgery and will begin rehabbing next week. Quick is expected to miss a minimum of six weeks.
Several NHL stars have come out to witness the negotiations between the League and the NHL Players’ Association regarding a new collective bargaining agreement. The NHLPA is expected to present its first proposal to the league at today’s meetings in Toronto.
The Colorado Avalanche signed veteran goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere to a one-year contract extension.
Check it out
In case you missed it, take a look at the custom NHL ’13 covers made here at the MiHockey offices. Make sure to vote for your favorite cover!
Next up
Enjoy the rest of your Tuesday and join us back here tomorrow for more hockey talk!