The Hockey News Player Poll

[Chronicle Sports]

Fans and media types have opinions on how the game should be played and what is good for the game but in the end the final say should go to those that lace up the skates on a nightly basis. I just received the most recent Hockey News and inside they polled 283 NHL players on a variety of issues here are a few of the results:

Who is the best player in the NHL this season?

Crosby 56%
Thornton 8%
Lecavalier 5%


Would you support increasing the number of teams in the playoffs?

No 79%
Yes 21%


Who is the most respected player in the NHL?

Sakic 63%
Lidstrom 11%
Shanahan 7%


What is an appropriate penalty for fighting?

5 min. 97%
10 min. 2%
20 min. 1%
Game Misconduct 0%


Would you rather see a fourth-line roster spot got to:

An enforcer 66%
A skilled player who can play the power play and participate in shootouts 33%


If you could play for any team(other than your own) which would you choose?

Toronto 15%
NY Rangers 12%
Detroit 8%


To what city would you least like to be traded to?

Buffalo 16%
Edmonton 11%
NY Islanders 10%


Who is the most hated player in the NHL?

Avery 66%
Tootoo 6%
Tucker 4%


What's your position on the visor issue?

Keep it optional 77%
Grandfather it for all players entering the NHL 16%
Mandate it for all players 7%


Do you think a point should be awarded for an overtime or shootout loss?

Yes 75%
No 25%