Axe Falls in New York - Ponikarovsky Dealt

The New York Rangers, in a move that clearly knocked the wind out of Alexei Ponikarovsky, dealt the young winger to the Toronto Maple Leafs last night. Rumours were flying in NHL cities all around the league but the Alexei Ponikarovsky sweepstakes are over. Lines on call in shows and sports channels lit up every few minutes over the last few days as deals were rumoured to be under way in Montreal, Columbus, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Florida and others. Heading back to the New York Rangers is an impressive package of youth which consists of Joffery Lupul, Petr Prucha, and a 5th round draft choice.

"I'm glad to be leaving town," said an uncharacteristically candid Ponikarovsky as he arrived at the airport. "I don't know what I did to upset the management in this place but they've been completely abusive too me the whole year. I'm not one to complain but my numbers are down because of my ice time and there's only so much bashing in the media a man can take. I'll let my goals do the talking in Toronto."

"I knew he'd say something dumb like that," said a clearly amused GM Burns. "Poni's attitude has stunk. He's been a detriment to our dressing room. I would have liked to have ended things nicely but if he's going to talk smack I can only say I hope he finds the training room in Toronto because he certainly never found it in New York. It's the one NEXT TO THE DRESSING ROOM Alexei!"