That is quite an accomplishment for a 39-year old winger (Recchi turns 40 on Feb. 1) who was often a healthy scratch for the Penguins this season, scoring only eight points in 19 games.
A comeback could not have happened to a better guy.
It was not supposed to happen this way, either. After posting consecutive 24-goal seasons for the Penguins – he was traded to Carolina late in 2005-06 but returned to Pittsburgh the following season – Penguins general manager Ray Shero made it a point of emphasis to re-sign Recchi during this past off-season, counting on Recchi to be a productive veteran on a young, talented team looking to make another step in the playoffs.
It didn’t turn out that way at all, at least not Pittsburgh.
Even when Recchi had a chance to verbally exact revenge on his former club, he didn’t, further proving he is one of the NHL’s classiest players.
On January 12 Recchi scored the game-winning goal in Atlanta’s 3-2 shootout win over Pittsburgh. After the win, Recchi remained diplomatic.
"It was (a hard game to play)," Recchi said, "but we played well and they did too. It was a good game and that made it easier...There were a lot of smiles and a lot of 'heys' out there. It was good. Like I said, I love those guys but I've grown fond of these guys (in Atlanta) real quickly here, so it's been fun for me here.
"It’s nice (getting the win), I’m not gonna lie to you. I got great friends over there, but it’s nice."
It was a nice moment for Recchi, a well-deserved moment. It was even nicer, though, that he just left his thoughts at that. After all, it befits Recchi’s style.
"The Wrecking Ball", as he was affectionately known in Pittsburgh, is a Hall of Fame contender. He has averaged nearly a point per game (1,360 points in 1,378 games through Jan. 22) in his 19-year, five-team career (including three stops in Pittsburgh). A 500-goal scorer, he has scored 20 goals or more 15 times, 30 goals or more seven times, and 40 or more four times. He also has name on the Stanley Cup twice (90-91 Pens, 05-06 ‘Canes).
Adding to his resume, Recchi has been a fan favorite everywhere he has played, including Montreal and Philadelphia. Team execs cite his experience, leadership and steady production.
While things did not work out in Pittsburgh this season, Recchi has helped lead a resurgence in Atlanta. It is opportunity he won’t soon forget.
"I enjoy the game," Recchi said after the win over Pittsburgh. "I’m just thankful that Don (Waddell) and the Thrashers and the organization have given me the opportunity to show that I can still play, and help a team."
So, nice guys finish last, eh? Don’t tell that to Mark Recchi. |
