Thoresen Keeps Nuts Intact

After a huge scare last night, it looks like Patrick Thoresen will be able to return to the ice for game 2 on Sunday versus Washington.

He brought a whole new meaning to "balls to the wall"...er...ice that is after he blocked Mike Green's slap shot and took it to the groin. Referee's allowed play to continue and Washington scored with the Flyers technically "short handed."

After laying on the ice for a few minutes, Thoreson was helped off the ice. He was taken to the hospital and after an ultra-sound, nothing seemed torn or broken.

“He’s now back at the hotel just resting up. As far as his status, it’s going to come down to how he feels, but he’s a possibility for the game tomorrow,” Paul Holmgren said. “Obviously we’re all thankful it’s not more serious than it is.”

Flyers Website: On the Fly

Continuing reading...

Flyers Claim Thoresen

The Flyers have claimed Patrick Thoreson off waivers from Edmonton. Thoreson is a 24 year old forward. He currently has two goals and one assist with a minus-14 rating in 17 games.

Not sure how this move helps at all, but maybe it could turn out to be something nice.

TSN's Scouting Report on Thoreson:
Assets: Oozes hockey sense. Has enough versatility to play anywhere up front. Owns both two-way ability and offensive skill.

Flaws: Is a little on the smallish side (5'11"/188 lbs) and must adjust to the more aggressive game in the big league. Is more of a play-maker than goal-scorer.

Career potential: Top six forward.

If he really is a true two-way forward, that could be a big lift for this team. I wonder who's spot he'll replace in the line-up. Hopefully not Giroux, at least not yet.

Update: Thoreson seems like a guy with issues. Here is a Norwegian interview he had recently.

Right now I'm irritated and frustrated. I feel that Edmonton has given up on me. It's over here now since they they're sacrificing me like this.

There was a lot of talk, but it was all bullsh1t. They pissed on me. I played well. The explanation was that others needed match practice.

-Do you feel you're good enough for Edmonton?
-I'm not in doubt for half a second.

-How do you then explain that they waived you?
-The NHL is all politics. Everything is about the highly drafted players. I'm not drafted, and do not have a high profile.

We'll have to see if anyone else wants me. My agent is making calls. I don't know what will happen.

-What do you think the chances are that someone will claim you in the next 2 hours?
-20 per cent.

Doesn't sound like the type of a guy to add amongst a 9 game losing streak.

Continuing reading...