Monday, February 28, 2011

Fare Ye Well Rusty!!

As many have reported today, Rostislav (Rusty) Klesla was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes for Scottie Upshall, a winger, and Sami Lepisto, a defenseman.  Lepisto's acquisition comes in handy as Puck Rakers is reporting that Anton Stralman will be out for 3-4 weeks.  This is better than sliding an unprepared Craig Rivet into the lineup in Vancouver.

Upshall has played well with Umberger in the past.  'Nuff said.

Rusty Klesla was the original draft pick of the CBJ.  I think he did well to overcome the trauma of his being thrust into the NHL prior to being ready (this would be like having John Moore up here because we had no choice).  He remade himself into a rugged stay at home defenseman under Ken Hitchcock.  Ultimately, I think Rusty has been forced to swallow too much losing in his years here.  This is a new chapter in Rusty's career, that he starts liberated from the CBJ's tawdry past.  I hope for Rusty's sake that this helps him to relax, play his game, and find continued success in the NHL. 

Favorite Rusty Moment: The 2008-09 playoffs, when Rusty Klesla played like an absolute demon.  He was one of the players who rose to the occasion in his only playoff appearance.  Here's wishing Rusty many more!

5 comments:

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  2. Well said. A toast to Klesla. May he continue to thrive.

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  3. a bittersweet day in Jackets history... good move for us, but certainly not easy seeing the last original player go. Good luck in Phoenix, Rusty!

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  4. Very nice tribute to Rusty. And, yeah, I need to read your pieces before I write my own. (We're often of like minds!)

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