NBH would like to congratulate Mike Richards on his latest honor of being named the 17th captain in Philadelphia Flyers history. Richards, in just his fourth season, has quickly become the leader of the team and is the third youngest captain in the club's history.

Richards had a breakout season last year as he scored 28 goals and led the team in assists (47) and scoring (75). He also helped lead the team through the playoffs and into the Eastern Conference Finals.

"It's obviously a privilege to be part of such a traditional organization, and be captain of it, I am going to do my best. We have a lot of great team leaders right now on our team, and we don't have to change anything," Richards said.

Team general manager, Paul Holmgren, commented on why the team selected the young center to lead the team. "Mike carries a lot of the attributes that we believe a Philadelphia Flyer is all about. He is a hard-nosed kid, and he has the skill and drive that it takes to excel...at this time, we just think that he is the right guy to lead us on the path we want to follow", Holmgren said.

So far this preseason, Richards is right back where he left off, scoring four goals in four games including two shorthanded goals against the Hurricanes on Saturday night during the teams 4-2 win.

Once again, congratulations to Mike and great honor of being captain. I'll be sure to keep you all updated on Mike and the Flyers upcoming season.

Posted By: Luke Ventura

NBH would like to congratulate Eric Staal on his new contract with the Carolina Hurricanes. Staal, who was drafted by the 'Canes second overall back in 2003, has reportedly signed a new seven year contract that will keep him in Carolina through the 2015-16 season.

The 23-year old center has become the face of the franchise and has led the team in goals, assists, and points in two of the last three seasons. Last season Eric finished with 38 goals and 44 assists for a total of 82 points.

Eric recently joined the NBH crew at the annual Athlete Event, and he expressed how excited he was about the upcoming season with the Hurricanes. The team will be looking to get back to playoffs and duplicate the Cup winning season they produced in 2005-06. Once again, congrats to Eric on the new contract, it will be great to watch him continue to mature and lead the Hurricanes throughout the season.

Posted By: Luke Ventura