Break Time

Wednesday night marked the last time that NHL games will be played until after the All-Star break, and it also meant a busy night around the league as well. A total of 8 fights occured in the 9 games played.

Thrashers–Flyers took the cake in terms of numbers with three bouts. Resident heavyweights Eric Boulton and Riley Cote dropped the gloves in the first period with Chris Thorburn and Arron Asham following suit only seconds later. Asham danced again at the start of the second period.  His opponent that time around was Boris Valabik.

Brian Sutherby and Anthony Stewart locked horns late in the opening stanza of Stars–Panthers, and were followed by a rare bout involving Cory Stillman, who dropped Matt Niskanen with a right hand. Dan Hinote taking on Adam Burish was the lone fight in Blues–Blackhawks.

Dion Phaneuf was booted from Jackets–Flames after boarding R.J. Umberger. Marc Methot went directly after Phaneuf and the two exchanged a couple of punches in a quick bout. A scrap between Sean O’Donnell and Chris Stewart in Kings–Avs rounded out the night.

Videos added

Eric Boulton vs Riley Cote Jan 21, 2009
Marc Methot vs Dion Phaneuf Jan 21, 2009
Matt Niskanen vs Cory Stillman Jan 21, 2009
Brian Sutherby vs Anthony Stewart Jan 21, 2009

The rest of last night’s clips should be added later today.

Some reads

Stars should keep changes to a minimum
Fighting in hockey: The fine line between entertainment and safety
Tampa Bay Lightning’s Vinny Lecavalier will discuss trade rumors once at NHL All-Star Game
Muscling His Way to the NHL, PU Alum Powe Playing for Flyers
Burns faces another fight
Sharks’ Lemieux exposes ESPN.com writer