For the European players, they get an opportunity to adjust to the North American style of play, the rink, and it's an opportunity to play against players their age. There's a lot of pressure on them as it is, coming over (from Europe) maybe for the first time.

He's not imposing to other players until he hits -- then he's imposing. He hit a guy in center ice, with his shoulder, a clean hit. The guy had his head down, and he ended up with a broken jaw and a concussion.

Howard had an outstanding collegiate career, ... We expect him to come into camp battling for the No. 3 position. He's a strong prospect and we look forward to having him in our organization for many years.

Howard had an outstanding collegiate career. We expect him to come into camp battling for the No. 3 position.

He's shown over the last three years that he's one of the top goalies in college hockey, ... He's played in pressure situations and at times had to carry the team. We think he's had great development and now is the proper time for him to turn pro.

It's a good way for them (young players) to start their season.

This may have been the most balanced (prospects) team we've had here.

Even though at 16, you can imagine how big he was then, I loved how he competed. He didn't weigh more than 150 pounds, but he just flattened guys. You love that, and with the way he moved the puck, he was just a nice package.

You go into Russia and the game is supposed to be Tuesday and you're there and they say the game was yesterday.

We're very happy with him, ... He went over to Finland and was one of the leading scorers. It was a big year for him. That shows how he's maturing as a player.