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Petr Sykora was the NHL's Second Star of the Week and with good reason. In the past four games, Sykora battled through the pains of back spasms to amass an evenly distributed eight points (4G-4A). The lucidity of his play alongside Evgeni Malkin and Ryan Malone has left many questioning a fit for Sidney Crosby upon his eminent return.
Despite his career stats of 272 goals and 351 assists, it's amazing to think Sykora has never drawn the hats from the crowd. He's had enough two-goal games to his credit, whereby the third was merely out of reach. As evidenced in this past Sunday's game against the Flyers, his teammates want Sykora to get it just as much as he does.
Malkin tried in vain to dish Sykora the helper, as did Malone on a few attempts. But it turned out to be yet another two goal ending for Sykora.
But hey - he'll take it.
In his twelve seasons with the NHL, Sykora's bets goal-scoring effort came in the 2000-2001 season with the New Jersey Devils. Sykora lit the light 35 times that season and tagged on 48 helpers for a career high 81 points.
So far this season Sykora's 58 points (25G - 33A) has powered the injury prone Penguins to more than a few wins. With 11 games remaining it's doubtful Sykora will match or surpass his career high, but if coming close is any indication to his place with the Devils, then perhaps the cup is closer than some may think.
In light of the age-old parable "If it ain't broke don't fix it", is it insulting to consider placing your captain and last year's reigning scoring champ on the second power play line?