Flyers center Claude Giroux was not named Thursday as one of the starters for the Jan. 29 All-Star Game in Ottawa.
Instead, four players from the Senators Daniel Alfredsson, Jason Spezza, Milan Michalek and Erik Karlssonwere selected by the fans, along with Phil Kessel and Tim Thomas.
I am surprised, said coach Peter Laviolette. Maybe Im biased, but if I had to start a team, Id pick him first over anybody else in the league. That does surprise me.
Giroux is tied with Vancouvers Daniel Sedin as the second-leading scorer in the National Hockey League with 46 points. Daniels twin brother Henrik is first with 48.
Giroux leads the Flyers with 18 goalsone more than Scott Hartnell. Were it not for missing four games last month with a concussion, theres a good chance Giroux, the NHL points leader at the time, would still be in front.
Sure, Giroux will be added to the roster, but once again, the fans embarrass the NHL and themselves by balloting stuffing.
Giroux, who was not even aware that the top six were being announced, said he understands the politics involved given the game is in Ottawa and Sens fans want to see their players.
NHL
Its in Ottawa, they want Ottawa players there, thats fine, he said. Im not going to judge the way they do. It doesnt really matter. It seriously doesnt bother me.
If I do go back it will be pretty cool, I have family and friends there, but I have bigger things to worry about right now.
Giroux is tied with Vancouvers Daniel Sedin as the second-leading scorer in the National Hockey League with 44 points. Daniels twin brother Henrik is first with 48.
Giroux leads the Flyers with 18 goalsone more than Scott Hartnell. Were it not for missing four games last month with a concussion, theres a good chance Giroux, the NHL points leader at the time, would still be in front.
Tonight, the Flyers make their return to Wells Fargo Center after an 18-day absence when they host Chicago. The Blackhawks are seeded second in the Western Conference.
Because the Flyers were on the ice for their morning skate, Giroux was not immediately available for comment.
E-mail Tim Panaccio at tpanotch@comcast.net