In a disastrous season for the St. Louis Blues, right winger Jamal Mayers stood tall and had the finest year of his NHL career.
On a team that lacked skilled players, Mayers scored a career-high 15 goals and added 11 assists.
On a team that lacked toughness, Mayers often scrapped with some of the meanest intimidators the league has to offer.
Hall of Famer Bernie Federko said Tuesday on 1380 ESPN that Mayers is one of the best stories of the 2005-06 season.
“He proved that he belongs here,” said Federko.
“His 15 goals are the best he’s ever had and he was not afraid to drop the gloves and protect his teammates.”
Just think what Mayers could have accomplished had he not missed eight weeks of the season with a broken foot suffered while blocking a slap shot.
He played in just 66 games, but will return as one of the team’s trusted wingers in 2006-07.
It’s a sure bet that new owner Dave Checketts will replace as many skilled players as Bill Laurie tossed aside in his foolish strategy to rid the team of stars and accompanying payroll.
Better days are yet to come for Mayers and the Blues.
Mayers, a player of color, had an outstanding season for the Blues as did other minority NHL stars.
Jarome Iginla of the Calgary Flames put together a MVP caliber season.
He had 34 goals and 31 assists for 65 points.
Anson Carter of the Vancouver Canucks had 32 goals and 22 assists for 54 points.
Kevin Weekes, New York Rangers goalie, split time in the net during the season, but still registered 14 wins and a superb 2.92 goals against average.
