Robin Figren & Luciano Aquino Updates

New York Islander Fan Central | 1/09/2008 12:48:00 PM | | | |
Journal Gazette:Justin A. Cohn reports Fort Wayne Komets coach Al Sims often has harsh criticism for his star and leading scorer, mixed in with praise, because expectations of the Islanders 2005 seventh rounder are high. In his recent game he had two goals, but a high-sticking penalty, a misconduct penalty he took for arguing that call and a penalty for having too many men on the ice he caused.

“A lot of negatives come with the positives. It kind of shows, I think ‘maturity’ is the word you have to use with him,” Sims said. “Certainly, he’s a force at this level and one of the leading scorers in the league. He wants to get back to the next level and is trying to go about it the right way and I’m doing what I can to help him.”

“I don’t know if he’s a perfectionist, but he expects a lot out of me and my line,” Aquino said. “I can’t complain about him. He’s been good to me. Every coach is different and you just have to know Al and his type. He keeps me on my toes. He gives me a kick in the butt when I’m not doing well and he also gives me a kick in the butt when I’m (rolling).”

“It happens to a lot of players where you get stuck in a (NHL’s team’s) system. You think you deserve a chance to play and they don’t give you a chance,” Aquino said. “God’s honest truth, I don’t even worry about getting called up. I don’t even care. Hockey is a game you can’t control. There are so many good players who are in the NHL and so many bad players who are. It’s all about work and that’s what I’ll do.”


Edmonton Sun: Jason Hills has prospect Robin Figren's comments upon returning to the Oil Kings about his WJC experience and the possibility of being traded which he talked over with gm Bob Green.

"Personally, I don't think I could have dreamed for the tournament to go any better."

"I absolutely want to stay here. I am very comfortable both with the hockey and the city. I feel like I am developing the way I need to be everyday," said Figren. "I don't want to go anywhere."

"We've spoken to Robin and he's very happy here and he wants to remain an Oil King and, from our part, it's important to have a player of that quality around," said Green.

"He brings a lot culture-wise to our organization. He's great for the younger guys."