Bryzgalov takes European vacation

December 9, 2004 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Cincinnati RailRaiders News Release


CINCINNATI, Ohio -- Cincinnati Mighty Ducks goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov has been loaned to the Russian Federation for the Rosno Cup tournament in Moscow next week.

The Rosno Cup pits host Russia, Finland, Sweden and the Czech Republic in a battle of European powerhouses December 16-19.

The teams in the tournament will be even stronger this year because of all the talent made available by the NHL lockout.

"This is a very historic and prestigious tournament," Cincinnati general manager Chuck Fletcher said. "For Ilya, it's an opportunity to audition for the Russian Federation for the number one (goaltender) job at the World Championships next May. There are some really good goaltenders playing in the Russian Elite League they could have chosen for this tournament, so it's quite an honor that they've requested Bryzgalov from Cincinnati. The Russian Federation obviously feels he's better than the goalies they have in Russia."

Bryzgalov will miss Cincinnati's next six games. He's expected to return to the lineup December 23, when the Ducks play at Milwaukee.

Bryzgalov has appeared in 16 games with Cincinnati this season, going 6-8-1 with a 2.74 goals-against average, .902 save percentage and one shutout.

Former Ducks Jonathan Hedstrom, Tony Martensson and Anaheim prospect Bjorn Melin will also be participating in the tournament as members of Sweden's national team.



American Hockey League Stories from December 9, 2004


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