Predictions and "Grade-ictions" Series

Ian Laperriere

2009/2010 Regular season stats: 3G 17A -1
2010 Playoff stats: 0G 1A -3
Grade: A

What more could anyone ask from Ian Laperriere in 09/10? Never in my hockey-watching life have I seen such a display of on-ice self-sacrifice than I saw in every game last season with Laperriere.

History was made when he blocked Paul Martin's power play slapshot in game five against the Devils. Video tributes were made and he was regarded as one of the toughest players in the NHL after that play. But those who don't watch (or listen to) the Flyers on a daily basis may have missed what he did October 27th against the Sabres. Lappy does whatever it takes on the penalty kill to prevent a point shot from getting to the Flyers goaltender. He blocks shots with his stick, legs, arms, midsection, and in multiple occasions this year, his face.

He played on the 4th line in 09/10 alongside Blair Betts and Darroll Powe, but it was his penalty kill presence that was indispensable to this Flyers team. I only hope that he blocks more shots this year with his shin pads rather than his right eye.


2010 Predictions: 3G 14A -2