It's been a long offseason... Are you ready for Knight hockey?

The summer is over, and the smell of fall and hockey is here. Many are anticipating the 2008-2009 edition of the Golden Knights with a few questions in hand:

Will Guthrie and D'Alvise lead the Knights offensively?

Who will be the one to stop all the pucks?

Can they make the NCAAs?

Is the defense as good as expected?

Who will emerge from the talented freshmen class to replace the likes of Dodge, Zalewski, Cayer, Arciero, Leggio, and Clitsome?

Finally, will the Knights beat the SLUzers four times?!?

Sorry, I don't have the knowledge or insight required, so you'll have to ask someone else and watch the season progress with us.

Speaking of the '08 alumni, here is where they are currently practicing their skill.

Nick Dodge and David Leggio were recently sent down to Carolina's AHL farm team, the Albany River Rats. Last night, David, playing 2 periods, got the no decision in 5-3W over the Soundtigers. Unfortunately, David will likely be sent down to the Blades after the Hurricanes most recent roster moves. On the positive side, David was actively pursued by the Blades' GM and coach and should be given every opportunity to move up to the Rats. I'd expect Nick to stay with the Rats, and may get an opportunity with the 'Canes at some point this year.

Steve Zalewski was impressive throughout the Sharks rookie camp, and gained consideration by many to make the opening day roster, particularly after Torrey Mitchell (UVM) suffered a (nasty) break to his leg. The depth of the Sharks organization, with Thornton, Goc, Pavelski, and Roenick expected to start the season at the center position, resulted in Steve being sent down to Worcester. ECAC fans can still catch Mike Moore throwing punches for the Sharks.

Guess Clarkson fans can catch a bloody mary and brew at the Firehouse Cafe before watching Z tear up the AHL. Watch for Z to be called up this year as well.

Grant Clitsome - who would have thought he was the most ready to make the NHL this year? Coach Hitchcock spoke of Clitsome on his daily show today, and had some impressive praise for Grant, stating - "I think Clitsome has impressed me the most. Looks to be a really good NHL player soon. Stepped up so much. Can possibly grab a spot". Who knows - he might just make it. I'm still betting he gets sent down, if for the only reason of increased playing time. I just don't see him making the top 6. I hope I'm wrong.

David Cayer decided to take a boat across the ocean and play for the Etoile Noire de Strasbourg .(Yes! he is still a Knight!) He continues to put up the points with a 4-2-1-3 line, and lead the team after being made an Assistant Captain. I'll continue to use Google Translate to provide Cayer fans with updates. My high school french still doesn't help me in Montreal!

Mike Arciero is probably starting on his path to success as well. He certainly represented the Knights well during his playing days.

Others of note: Shawn Weller was sent down earlier to the B-Sens (AHL), Kyle McNulty surfaced in Colorado (CHL), Hugo Belanger needs to send some offspring towards Clarkson as he continues to score points anywhere he goes (currently the LNAH), and Chris Rogles finally hung up the goalie pads in Europe.

Important note: Should add that the Clarkson website is adding seating availability to the schedule. Reserved seating for the second CC game is gone...so hurry and get your tickets!

Maybe next time I'll add some info on the 2009 - 2011 recruiting classes. Let me know what Clarkson hockey news you want. Till next time!

UPDATE: Leggio assured of being sent down to the Blades.