It's funny how being released and then sent to the minors for being out of shape can light a fire under one's ass.Last night Kyle Wellwood put up another 2 goals giving him 6 on the season and 7 point in 8 games in 2008.
Wellwood's offensive skills have never been in doubt. It has always been motivation and his commitment to conditioning that has kept him from reaching his potential.
At this point in the year with waiver wire's thinning out, a guy like Wellwood can hold a lot of value. Playing on a Canucks team with little offensive depth will provide ample opportunities for the dimunitive center. He also has a previous history of being productive in the NHL as witnessed during his 42 points in 48 games in Toronto during the 2007 season. One wonders how badly he alienated himself from the Maple Leafs for them to just dump him and his offensive gifts.
Wellwood has been given a second life, and by sending him down to the minors the Canucks have already sent a strong message about their expectations. With the collection of skills he possesses he is a solid add if you have some dead weight lying on your bench. He is very capable of putting up 60-75 points with the ice time he will receive on the West Coast.
Other stars last night
• Erik Ersberg was strong in his first start of the season, giving up just one goal. Unfortunately it was an OT winner in a 1-0 defeat.
• Mikael Grabovski had 2 goals and an assist leaving him with 5 points in his last 2 games. Grabovski has the skill to succeed in the NHL, does he have the toughness?
• Welcome back Roberto Luongo. Luongo stopped 24 saves to register his 3rd shutout of the season. That would be impressive if those 3 shutouts were not sandwhiched around 9 other shitty games.
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