Hockey Beat » richard zednik

Steve Sullivan Wins 2009 Masterton Award

Jeanne Dupuis — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 02:14:17 +0000

Steve Sullivan was clearly moved when it was announced that he had won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy which is awarded tot he player who "best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey."

I can imagine that there was a time when Sullivan thought he might not ever play hockey again, never mind win an award. He was sidelined for almost two years as he recovered from a serious back injury and once he returned to the Nashville Predators lineup, he registered 11 goals and 32 points in 42 games.

He thanked his teammates for always believing in him and, of course, his family for their support. He beat out Detroit defenseman Chris Chelios and Florida forward Richard Zednik (who returned after a horrifying freak accident left him with a slashed throat).

image: NHL.com

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Zednik Victorious on Anniversary of Throat Slash

Jeanne Dupuis — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 05:16:44 +0000

Who can forget the horrific accident that resulted in the throat of Richard Zednik being slashed last year? To be honest, it was so terrible that I wasn’t sure he’d ever feel comfortable on the ice again. I’m glad I was wrong.

On the anniversary of the incident, Zednik had an amazing night on the ice as his Florida Panthers enjoyed a 5-4 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. At 1:02 in OT, Zednik scored his second goal of the night – the game winner – and secured the win for his team.

"It’s amazing," said Zednik. "Exactly one year later and to get the game-winning goal, it’s great."

Indeed, it was an incredible game since the Panthers were able to bounce back from a three-goal deficit. I like to think Zednik’s teammates rallied to win the game for him.

image: TSN

Post from: Hockey Beat