Leagues Toughest Guy (NHL)

     When it comes to hockey, many fans associate the word tough with the Boston Bruins.  It's no secret that the Bruins play hard, rough, and defend for each other.  You can say their motto is rough and tough, at least their attitude and mentality show it.  This past Sunday Boston Bruins forward Milan Lucic was highlighted above the team as the league's toughest player.  NHLPA polls show 20% of players around the league voted for him.  Before Sunday's game versus the Minnesota Wild, Lucic commented on his award, "It's good to heart that... It's an honor to be recognized by the people around the league as being a tough player.  For myself, you take a lot of pride in that just because in the way I play and have to keep that up" (Gulizia, p.1).

Lucic pumps up crowds after fighting

     In 56 games this season for the B's, Lucic has netted 20 goals (tied for team first with youngster Tyler Seguin) and tallied 22 assists for a total of 42 points.  Lucic is ranked second in the club for most penalty minutes.  Many compare Lucic to Cam Neely.  Both play similarly.  Lucic hustles hard, he can play the body, skate well, and bang the puck into the back of the net.  He's the real deal when it comes to a grinder who can score.  Oh yeah, and he's not afraid to drop the gloves, but it takes two to tango.  Forward Chris Kelly complimented Milan Lucic pointing out what's unique about his teammate, "I don’t think there’s too many guys that can skate like he does, score like he does and fights like he does... He fights all the tough guys - he does it all" (Gulizia, p. 1). 

Lucic lands a left jab

     Lucic commented the tough mentality is a team effort and he is happy to be individually recognized on behalf of the team.  Among Lucic, other Bruins won awards.  Patrice Bergeron won most underrated player award.  For this first time since "The Comeback Kid's" concussion in the 2007-2008 season, hockey fans are seeing signs of the old Bergeron who was scoring 70+ points a season.  Bergeron has made a successful recovery and still has the chance to be the superstar he can be.  Defenseman and Captain Zdeno "Big Z" Chara was also recognized as the league's hardest defenseman to play against and for having the hardest shot.  Be sure to watch the former Stanley Cup champions as they finish off their six game road trip this week. 

Wednesday, Feb. 22 vs St. Louis Blues - 8:00pm [NESN(HD)]
Friday, Feb. 24 vs Buffalo Sabres - 7:30pm [NESN(HD)]
Saturday, Feb. 25 vs Ottawa Senators - 7:00pm [CBC, NESN(HD), & RDS(HD)]

Oh, for those who haven't seen how these bo$$e$ roll.  Stanley Cup tab.