Thrashers practice in Hockeyville

Just like old times! Thrashers forward Chris Thorburn talks to the local media just like he did back in 1999 when he joined the North Bay Centennials. Photo by Chris Dawson.

The Atlanta Thrashers took to the ice this morning in preparation for tonight’s Hockeyville game versus the New York Islanders. Although some big names like Marian Hossa and Kari Lehtonen are back in Atlanta, fans will get a chance to see one of the NHL’s top forwards in Ilya Kovalchuck. However one of the stars of the game tonight will be former North Bay Centennial Chris Thorburn. As he stepped off the ice after practice Thorburn was beaming in anticipation for the game.

“It’s crazy,” said Thorburn in regards to being back at Memorial Gardens.

“I stepped in the room and I took a moment to take it all in. I have amazing memories of this city and the fans here are great. I really appreciated that they gave me my old stall back, it was great.”

When Thorburn found out that he would be coming back to the city, he knew he wanted to be part of the game.

“I wanted to play in this game. I want to play in front of the fans; they were so good to me. I’ve wanted to come back and see the city, I wanted a chance to see the fans again.”

Thorburn is trying to crack a Thrashers lineup that only has two open spots at the forward position. Having played in Pittsburgh last season along side Sidney Crosby, and now being in Atlanta with Kovalchuck, Thorburn is grateful for the chance he has been given.

“I’ve got the best seat in the house,” said Thorburn regarding playing with the great young forwards.

“I’m playing with the greats, and the guys carry themselves well.”

Thorburn was also reminded of the fact that his younger brother Mark was in town with the Aurora Tigers two weeks ago and netted a goal. Although he did not predict a goal for himself, Thorburn did say his brother talked about his experience.

“He called me about coming here, saying that he would be playing. He said the fans here are still great, he has great skill.”

Although Thorburn may be a star locally, it is quite obvious that the biggest international star on the ice Monday night will be Ilya Kovalchuck. This is going to be the first exhibition game of the year for Kovalchuck and he is excited to get on the ice and get into the game.

“It’s my first game of the season. I’m really excited to get out there, to play in front of fans that love the game of hockey.”

Kovalchuck also added that he enjoys opportunities like these, to play in games for kids that do not always get to see NHL players.

“It’s always great,” said Kovalchuck regarding playing in front of the young kids.

“I really enjoy playing for the kids. It gives them a chance to see real NHL players and it is usually their goal to grow up and be in the NHL.”

Thrashers Head Coach Bob Hartley expressed the same sentiments regarding playing in front of the kids tonight.

“We are playing in front of the roots of the game tonight. These are the kids that have NHL dreams and grow up to be NHL players. It’s an honour to be part of this,” said Hartley.

Hartley also confirmed that his starting lineup will be made of all Ontario players to say thank you to all the fans that are coming out. One of those individuals may be free agent signing Todd White who hails from Kanata, Ontario. White is excited about the game tonight as it gives a chance for his family to make the trip.

“I’m really excited about the game. I never really asked if I could be part of it, but they told me last week I would. It gives my parents a chance to come as they will be making the trip up here tonight.”

The Atlanta Thrashers and New York Islanders will face off tonight at the Memorial Gardens. The festivities are set to begin at 7 pm.