Eastern Conference

Sporting News, The, Nov 6, 2000 by Mike Keenan, Paul Grant

WHO'S HOT

Proof that a hot player doesn't have to be playing on a hot team is seen this week in Donald Audette. The Sabre and King castoff, whose checks are now signed by Ted Turner, went on a hot streak not seen in the Peach State since the days of Rhett and Scadett. Audette had seven goals and seven helpers for 14 points in seven games (before being sidelined with a groin injury), as the Thrashers got off to a 1-3-5-0 start.

WHO'S NOT

It might be Dmitri Khristich's last second chance. The former Bruin got a golden opportunity last week when a hand injury to Steve Thomas opened up a spot for him on the Leafs' top line with Mats Sundin and Gary Roberts. Before the move, Khristich, a former 36-goal scorer, had one goal. Word has it that if Khristich doesn't perform, his days in Toronto are numbered. Maybe Harry Sinden was right, after all.

CHALKDUST

Just when you think you've got this league figured out, you get checked into the boards. Take Florida's 3-1 win over Ottawa last week, for example. The Panthers entered the game without a win, the Senators without a loss. Easy pick, right?. Not so fast, Jimmy the Greek. The Panthers played like they were Cup capable, shutting the door on two 5-on-3s in the third period against one of the NHL's most potent offenses. Pavel Burn even scored shorthanded (he's on the PK?).

GAME OF THE WEEK

This Saturday matchup represents the first time Larry Robinson will coach against his former team. The bench boss of the defending champion Devils will have a little something to prove against the team he once coached, especially to the people upstairs who make the decisions. The Kings, meanwhile, probably don't care much about that stuff, other than the fact this game gives them a chance to stay out of the depths of the Pacific (Division).

STICKS & STONES

Mario Lemieux is in pain these days, His promotions people lured a sellout crowd to Mellon, the first of the season for a team that is listed as day-to-day, Then, inexplicably, the Pens suffered their worst defeat at home. Ever, To the Devils, of all teams, who got four goals each from Randy McKay and John Madden, of all people, Hurts worse than the back, huh, 66?

DROPPING THE GLOVES

"The team's confidence levels have to be reinforced.... A lot of these guys were connected and had a relationship with Pat, and (for) that reason it will take some adjustment time."