Monday, March 22, 1999
Ducks' Reichert has the numbers, but Anaheim hasn't called his
BY DAVE HELLER
Enquirer contributor
The past two seasons have been the best of Craig Reichert's career. But they've also been the most frustrating.
The Cincinnati Mighty Ducks right wing set pro career highs last year with 28 goals and 87 points. This season he topped 20 goals for the third straight season and again ranks second on the team in both goals and points.
But in two seasons with Cincinnati, Reichert has watched as 25 teammates have been recalled by Anaheim while he sits waiting for the call to the NHL. Reichert, who spent two weeks with Anaheim during the 1996-97 season, admits it's been a tough couple of seasons.
“I've been waiting for another call,” he said. “I'm a strong believer in good things happen to those who wait. (But) it's definitely frustrating.”
Said Ducks coach Moe Mantha: “I was frustrated for him (last season when 18 Cincinnati players were recalled). It bothered him, but he wouldn't let it bother his play.”
Reichert, who has been a part of Anaheim's organization since turning pro in 1994, said he'd like to play for Anaheim, but if they don't want him, he'd be more than willing to change teams. Don't expect him to remain a Duck next season.
“I'm an unrestricted free agent; maybe that will open up a few doors,” Reichert said.
Reichert has an eye toward expansion. Atlanta enters the NHL next season with Columbus and Minnesota joining in 2000-2001.
“At my age (25 in May), I'm the type of player they're looking for,” Reichert said.
Reichert has a big supporter in Mantha, who has named Reichert team captain the last two years. Reichert was voted captain three years ago in Baltimore. Mantha says Reichert has great hands, has a good shot, is a good stickhandler and a great leader, but adds that Reichert's ticket to the NHL is for him to work on his first step and to be stronger in one-on-one battles.
“He's earned my respect,” Mantha said. “Especially last year, he did a heck of a job in that (locker) room (with leadership) when we needed it.”
DUCKS: Prior to Sunday's game, defenseman Byron Briske had played in 170 games as a pro but had yet to record a goal. The AHL record for consecutive scoreless games to begin a career is 174 by Kevin Kemp (1977-80). The NHL record is 238 games by Allen Pedersen (Boston, 1986-91).
CYCLONES: Newly acquired Jay Bulis has been described by the Hockey Scouting Report as a potential first line NHL center.
With Washington and its AHL affiliate in Portland likely out of the playoff race, the Capitals sent Bulis to the Cyclones for extended playing time. “He's an offensive threat all the time,” said Cyclones coach Ron Smith.
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