John Grahame loses Avangard Omsk debut

Johnny Grahame didn't get off to a great start with his new Russian club, falling 4-2. Oh well Crackers, at least you didn't get a penalty for "attack an opponent not holding the hockey". Jaromir Jagr was even on the +/- column. No word on whether or not he's still Mr. Personality in the post-game interviews.

Google translation of KHL game stats. Ak Bars 4, Avangard Omsk 2.

Irony at it's finest: Babchuk leaves Avangard Omsk to join the Hurricanes near the same day in July where John Grahame leaves the 'Canes to join the Hawks in the KHL. Здравствуйте (which apparently is "Hello" in Russian) and goooooodbye Grahame.

One guy that won't be missed

(image via the Hip Shot Blog)

This was apparently Olli Jokinen's first public appearance as a Phoenix Coyote at an open house for season ticket holders. The Hurricanes will still have to face him twice, as they are one of the "wild-card" teams that play home and away as well as St. Louis & Anaheim. Still, facing him only 2 times this year as opposed to 6 (or 8) is a blessing for the Canes & Caniacs alike.

As an aside, there's no word on whether or not he's been hitting the beach this summer: