Sean Avery: Dallas NHL Winger Ready to Make a Difference

Although Sean Avery is easy to hate, it's obvious that the Ontario born winger is a talented hockey player. Known more for his antics on the ice than his scoring touch, Avery is looking to make a splash in Dallas this season. After the New York Rangers were knocked out of the playoffs early last season, Avery decided to sign a four-year contract with the Dallas Stars, his fourth team in sixth season in the National Hockey League. Dallas fans are hoping Avery will give them the edge they need to make it deep into the playoffs next season. In the past four seasons, the Stars haven't been able to beat the Detroit Red Wings in the playoffs, keeping the Stars out of contention. Avery looks forward to joining other Stars' forwards like Mike Modano, Brenden Morrow, and newly acquired Brad Richards. Avery knows his experience in the playoffs as an instigator will give the Stars an added boost next season.

Avery made the move with help from Stars co-GM Brett Hull, who played in Detroit with Avery from 2001-2003. Not only did Avery play in Detroit with Hull, but they also were roommates as Avery had just started to break into the league. Hull was one of Avery's favorite players while growing up, and provided Avery with support when he needed it during his rookie year.

Avery finished last season with New York with 15 goals and 33 points. In eight playoff games, he had 4 goals and 3 assists. He became the talk of the league during the series versus the New Jersey Devils when he planted himself in front of goaltender Martin Brodeur and started waving his stick in the air franticly. The Devils were defending a 5-on-3 and Avery was attempting to distract Brodeur during the Rangers power play attack. This tactic proved to be effective as Avery eventually did put the puck past Brodeur. After the game had ended, Avery's antics became the talk of every commentator around the league. This forced the NHL to make a ruling on Avery's actions. No longer would it be legal for a player to employ tactics like the ones Avery had used against New Jersey. Under the league's rules regarding unsportsmanlike conduct, the NHL ruled that actions such as Avery's in the future would not be tolerated. Following the series between the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils, goaltender Martin Brodeur refused to shake Avery's hand during the ceremonial handshake after the match. It was clear Brodeur was not happy with Avery's antics.

Avery is confident his experience will help the Dallas Stars move forward in the future. Stars fans are hoping Avery will add grit and toughness to an already talented offense.