The NHL opened up shop this weekend after a long drawn out battle between the NHL Players Association (NHLPA) and the league. Now that it is all done and dusted we can get back to hockey and that is just what we did this weekend of Jan. 20, 2013.
There were some big performances this weekend and here are the top five best from the first taste of NHL action in 2013.
Thomas Vanek - Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo Sabre Thomas Vanek opened the new season with a game to remember as he scored two goals and added a hat trick of assists in his only match of the weekend to amass five points quicker than any other player in the league.
Marian Hossa - Chicago Blackhawks
Chicago Black Hawk Marian Hossa got his season off to a strong start with four goals and an assist with a plus/minus of positive three. His effort was imperative in the Hawks opening two wins of the season and they could be favorites to reach the Stanley Cup finals once again.
Jaromir Jagr - Dallas Stars
The 40-year-old future Hall of Fame winger of the Dallas Stars had a dream debut for his new team. With many people doubting the level of play that the Czech veteran would be able to achieve he silenced them all with a two goal and two assist performance that led the Stars over the Phoenix Coyotes on opening night.
Evgini Malkin - Pittsburgh Penguins
While it is usually Sidney Crosby that is getting all the props for the performances of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Evgini Malkin has been the silent provider so far this opening weekend with four assists in two games that have seen the Penguins defeat both the Philadelphia Flyers and the New York Rangers
Teemu Selanne - Anaheim Ducks
Anaheim points leader at the moment Teemu Selanne scored two goals and added two assists in the Ducks opening day mauling of the Vancouver Canucks 7-3. Although his plus/minus is only one his strong showing on the power play was impressive.
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