Bad news for the Penguins on Thursday — Arron Asham has something to prove.
The rough-and-tough Asham, who scored eight goals, 12 assists and 155 penalty minutes in 78 games last season, will make his 2009-10 season debut on Thursday and is expected to be on the third line aside Claude Giroux and Darroll Powe.
“I’m hoping to stay in the lineup for the rest of the year,” said a very serious Asham, who was scratched for the team’s first three games. “I’ll get my chance, I’ll work hard and keep my spot. I’m definitely not going to give it up easily.”
Asham was an effective player for the Flyers last season, chipping in offensively as well as adding some serious toughness. Not always considered a fighter, Asham is very physical when he wants to be and wins a good majority of the bouts he takes. A player like Asham with a chip on his shoulder is not going to be a fun opponent.
The 31-year old, 10-year NHL veteran is just part of the influx of toughness the Flyers will activate against the Penguins. Enforcer Riley Cote will see his first action of the season replacing injured Blair Betts. The new fourth line is expected to also feature Dan Carcillo and Ian Laperriere and should be nicknamed “Line of the Apocalypse.”
Phila.Bright 