Esposito and Valabik Updates
2009 November 28
I just got word that Angelo Esposito tore his ACL again, and it’s the same knee he injured in February. That’s certainly not good news for a player that was trying to his way back up the prospect depth chart. Don’t expect to see him back on the ice this season.
The other news is that Boris Valabik will be on his way back to Atlanta shortly. His two-week conditioning assignment with the Wolves is up after this weekend, so he’ll be back in a Thrashers uniform soon. The current plan is to carry a full roster of 23 players and then go from there.
The Thrashers have been lacking in the physicality department lately (in my opinion) so it will be nice to see what big Boris can do.
ugh! thats terrible news about esposito. i was really looking forward to his development and the possibility of him cracking the lineup in the near future. it looks like it will take a lot longer now.
great news about boris though, but i hope he plays a little more disciplined than previously.
Ben,
Could not agree with you more about the physical game. Boris will certainly bring the level up for the team. Lets hope its a good balance of discipline and nastiness combined.
I really hate to hear about Espisito. I really had high hopes for him in the future.
Rich
I think Schubert has actually found a niche on the team by eliminating pinching and focusing on defense and physicality. I think he’s successfully stepped up his physical game and I’m glad to see it.
Pittsburgh’s not missing Espo. Hate to hear it for the kid, though.
Boris Valabik has no use on this team unless he fixes his mental game. His physicality means nothing if all it leads to is penalties. Not to mention his horrid passing.
Agree with Andrew. Boneheaded giveaways, being out of position from being too slow, and horrible penalties are not what this team needs right now. I only want to see him in a game if his hind-side is going to get into a rematch fight with Sid.
I’m also willing to put money on never seeing Esposito in a Thrashers jerseys (pre-season doesn’t count). Feel bad for the kid, but his glass knee isn’t going to help him get to the big leagues.
GL- Keep in mind that we haven’t seen Valabik in a Thrashers jersey this season (because as you said, pre-season doesn’t count). I’m willing to give him a chance to prove his worth.
I’d be happy to eat crow re: Boris. If he can (or has) improved his speed, plays more responsibly, and then takes full advantage of his monstrous frame, that’d be awesome.