Hockey News: Kevin Dineen Fired; Alex Steen is on Fire

Remember about a week ago when Dale Tallon said Kevin Dineen’s job was safe? Yeah, GM’s should really stop with the coach is safe garb. [CBC Sports]

And obviously Jesse Winchester was trying to take the heat off his coach. That’s the only explanation here. [SB Nation]

Tim Thomas wasn’t dressed for his first visit back to TD Garden. The fans gave him a nice applause. Not so much love from his former coach however. [CBS]

But Thomas clearly still has a strong fanbase, judging by the sales of his Panthers jersey. [Puck Daddy]

What’s wrong with Sergei Bobrovsky? Other than the fact he’s no longer super-human and just a normal goalie now. [Columbus Dispatch]

The case against Brandon Dubinsky for Blue Jackets captain. [Union and Blue]

Alexander Steen now leads the NHL with 14 goals. The last St. Louis Blue to get off to such a start? Some guy named Brett Hull. [STL Today]

Alex Ovechkin is hot on Steen’s tail, however, once again looking like the unstoppable force he’s been in years past. This wouldn’t have anything to do with a certain Olympic games, now would it? [NHL.com]

By the way, if you want to see Russian hockey players singing, look no further. [Washington Post]

Remember when the Sabres didn’t acknowledge the return of their former captain Jason Pominville? Apparently that was very much by design. [Sabre Noise]

Claude Giroux avoids the media after his Flyers are shut-out by the Devils. [NJ.com]

Speaking of slumps, what’s up with Evgeni Malkin? [Trib Live]

P.K Subban and the ice-time debate. [Montreal Gazette]

David Clarkson isn’t sure of his role with the Maple Leafs, you know, other than leaving the bench and getting suspended in order to galvanize the dressing room. [Globe and Mail]

Finally, check out this dangle from Pavel Datsyuk. What a player. [NESN]