In The Crease

At a recent practice Panthers defenseman Jay Bouwmeester, 19, was checked hard by wing Kristian Huselius, who is skilled but not usually physical. Bouwmeester took exception and smashed Huselius in the face with a forearm. Afterward, Bouwmeester chastised Huselius, saying that if he isn't going to hit the opposition in games he shouldn't hit teammates in practice....

Sharks sniper Teemu Selanne was not moved at the deadline in part because his $6.5 million contract for next season has a player option. Clubs were concerned about acquiring Selanne at a big price and having him walk away at season's end....

Forget about forward Mikko Koivu, 20, the Wild's first-round pick in June 2001, playing in the NHL next season. Mikko, the brother of the Canadiens' Saku, is expected to join the army and continue playing for TPS Turku of the Finnish Elite League.