McGrattan Returns to Face Shelley

Brian McGrattan made his return to the NHL last night.  McGrattan missed a few months after entering the league and PA’s substance abuse program.  Upon exit the Coyotes sent him to San Antonio for a warm-up game, then recalled him to Phoenix to play in just his fourth NHL game this season.

McGrattan took on Jody Shelley in the second period.  It’s been over a year since Grats had a scrap, but he handled the Sharks’ heavyweight well and there didn’t appear to be any rink rust.

McGrattan and Shelley had one previous fight a few years ago, when both were out east (geographically, at least).

There were two other bouts in the tight western game: Rob Blake wrestled with Daniel Winnik and Brad Staubitz met up with Brandon Prust.

Elsewhere

Ben Eager and Mike Rupp dropped the gloves in Martin Brodeur’s (and Patrick Elias’) record-breaking game.

After a scrum that wouldn’t end quickly, Boris Valabik skated off clutching his shoulder after trading one big shot against Eric Godard.

Ethan Moreau punched down Jeff Woywitka off a faceoff for a hit on Ales Hemsky earlier.

Jamal Mayers went rapid-fire on Ryan Craig in the Leafs shootout win over the Bolts.

Videos added

Brad Staubitz vs Brandon Prust Mar 17, 2009
Jody Shelley vs Brian McGrattan Mar 17, 2009
Jeff Woywitka vs Ethan Moreau Mar 17, 2009
Jamal Mayers vs Ryan Craig Mar 17, 2009
Boris Valabik vs Eric Godard Mar 17, 2009
Ben Eager vs Michael Rupp Mar 17, 2009

Some reads

When the gloves drop
Tucker’s season rough on veteran
Artyukhin Gaining A Reputation
Dallas Stars’ Morrison hopes to recapture old magic
Grabovski apologizes to Blake | Grabovski-Blake: Round 2
NHL to snatch player salaries, battles with Isles over jerseys