Preview of the Heat with Duane Sutter

[Canada 02]

http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_va.../63711032.html

KEEP AN EYE ON: The new kid on the block is Mikael Backlund, a 20-year-old centre who led Sweden to back-to-back silver medals at the World Junior Championship. His development should be fascinating to watch.


"His physical and mental maturity took a big step last year," Sutter said. "It's got to come another step to be an everyday NHL player."

KEEP AN EYE ON: Rookies Negrin, Aulie and Seabrook are long on upside, but short on experience. How quickly they adjust to the pro game will be key to the Heat's fortunes.



"We feel that on their ability alone they'll be able to play in the league," Sutter said. "It's just a matter of adjusting to the higher tempo and stronger players."

KEEP AN EYE ON: A little bit of internal competition in the crease figures to be a positive thing for the Heat.


"We don't hold one of them above the other," Sutter said of Irving and Keetley. "They'll get fairly equal ice time from Jimmy (Playfair), and we feel that it'll settle itself out. One will emerge, but that doesn't mean that the other isn't a good player."