Spezza named AHL Rookie of the Month
Published on February 5, 2003 under American Hockey League (AHL) News Release
SPRINGFIELD, MA ... The American Hockey League announced today that Binghamton Senators center Jason Spezza has been named the AHL Rookie of the Month for January. In 14 games, Spezza recorded 10 goals and 13 assists for 23 points, helping the Senators to first place in the East Division.
Spezza led the Senators to a record of 8-3-3-0 on the month, including a 10-game unbeaten streak from Jan. 11-31 during which the 19-year-old tallied 22 of his 23 points. Spezza's month featured eight multiple-point games, including three two-goal efforts and three consecutive three-point games to end the month. In recognition of his accomplishment, Spezza will be presented with an etched crystal trophy by the AHL prior to an upcoming game.
The second overall pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, Spezza has recorded 19 goals and 23 assists for 42 points in 31 games with Binghamton this season, as well as with four goals and six assists in 17 NHL contests with Ottawa. Despite missing 18 games while on recall, Spezza is currently third in the AHL's rookie scoring race and leads all first-year AHL players in points per game (1.35). He participated in the 2003 Dodge AHL All-Star Classic earlier this week, winning the InGlasCo Puck Control Relay race.
Other players nominated for AHL Rookie of the Month for January include Cleveland forward Pat Rissmiller, Grand Rapids goaltender Joey MacDonald, Houston goaltender Frederic Cloutier, Lowell forward Ryan Bayda, Manchester forward Yanick Lehoux, Manitoba forward Jason King, Milwaukee goaltender Brian Finley, Philadelphia goaltender Antero Niittymaki, Rochester forward Paul Gaustad, San Antonio defenseman Filip Novak, St. John's forward Brad Boyes and Syracuse forward Tim Jackman.
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