Sat, Oct 04, 2008 - Page 19 News List

NHL: Stage set for spirited new NHL season

SECOND EUROPEAN LAUNCH The NHL is launching into the 2008-2009 season with double headers scheduled in the Czech and Swedish capitals today and tomorrow

AFP , LOS ANGELES

Simon Gagne, who scored at 40 goals in back-to-back seasons before getting hurt, should give the Philadelphia Flyers a lift. He sat out all but 25 games last season, suffering from post-concussion symptoms.

The Boston Bruins are pleased to see Patrice Bergeron back in their lineup. The skilled forward missed all but 10 games last year after being hit by Randy Jones of Philadelphia.

A number of key players changed uniforms in the offseason, including former Vancouver Canucks star Markus Nasland of Sweden, who joined the New York Rangers. Agitating forward Sean Avery is now in Dallas and Calgary is taking a chance on Todd Bertuzzi who made a brief stop in Anaheim.

Detroit goalie Dominik Hasek retired for the second and likely final time but defenseman Chris Chelios is back for his 25th NHL season although he could miss the Red Wings opener with a injured knee.

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