Rory Fitzpatrick an All-Star?

 

Justin Dahan (HV)

 

Who would have thought that a journeyman 7th defenseman would be an all-star? Rory has played a career 235 games and only scored 9 goals and 19 assists. This year he only has one assist through 25 games.

Despite this a large group of fans have taken it upon themselves to vote Rory, a veteran of Montreal , St. Louis , Nashville , Buffalo and currently Vancouver , into the January 24th All-Star game in Dallas .

The last time the NHL released the All-Star positions Rory was third for defenseman in the Western Conference, directly ahead of Chris Pronger who has recorded 7 goals and 31 assists in 41 games this season. That’s more points than Rory has recorded throughout his entire career.

Some view this campaign as a commentary of how the All-Star game no longer selects the best players, and has turned into a popularity contest. Others view it as a way to give respect to career players who play with heart, grit, and determination. Either way it will be interesting to see where Rory ends up in the All-Star voting; which ended January 2nd.

Photo: Rory Fitzpatrick © Michail Boncea (HV)