The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
TSN and the Canadian Press reported on Wednesday that Jeremy Roenick wants to finish his hockey career in Canada. When it was announced last summer that Roenick was Hollywood-bound following a trade from Philadelphia, all the media experts and even some fans, including myself, felt it was the best place for him. He has become another source of entertainment. When it comes to speaking to the media, Roenick is known for handing over money quotes on a silver platter. In that story Roenick said, "It was a nightmare season from hell last year. The embarrassment of the season I had last year is enormous. So I've totally re-arranged my summer and re-dedicated myself to the game of hockey." In 58 games with the Kings, Roenick scored nine goals and added 13 assists for 22 points. Not exactly Roenick-type numbers. Roenick has now gone to renowned trainer T.R. Goodman to help him. "I'm working out and getting into the best shape possible that my body can get to," he said. "I want to make amends for a season lost. It was totally embarrassing." For his sake I hope he does. I best remember Roenick from his days as a Blackhawk when he was a dangerous offensive threat. For three of eight seasons, he recorded 100-plus points. In all but one, he averaged a point-per-game. In Phoenix he continued to produce at a point-per-game rate. The tailspin started in Philadelphia. For a Canadian team interested in signing him, Roenick said it's not going to take much to get him. Don't be surprised if the cost is in the $1 million range or less. If he can rebound, getting him at that price is a steal. Roenick referred to Teemu Selanne who, after getting surgery on both knees approached, the Anaheim Ducks, who signed him for $1 million last season. He repaid the team with a 40-goal, 80-point performance. Hell, I wouldn't object to the Canucks signing Roenick. Afterall, if he's coming cheap you can't go wrong. I think Roenick would look good in a Canucks jersey. When Roenick says, "No hanging out at clubs anymore," that's got to be a good sign. With the former King vowing to change his lifestyle, how could any team go wrong signing him?
