Sundin named NHL's "First Star"

Mar 3, 2008 - 7:33 PM NEW YORK (Ticker) -- Toronto Maple Leafs center Mats Sundin, who declined to waive the no-trade clause in his contract, on Monday was named the NHL's "First Star" of the Week.

Also honored were Boston Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas and Philadelphia Flyers right wing Mike Knuble.

After upsetting some team officials and fans when he said he wanted to stay in Toronto at the trade deadline, Sundin recorded four goals and four assists in a 3-0-1 week for the Maple Leafs, who are trying to make a belated run to stay in playoff contention.

Toronto is 12th in the Eastern Conference, six points out of a playoff spot. The Maple Leafs are in jeopardy of missing the postseason for a third straight year, something that never has happened in the franchise's storied history.

Thomas, the week's "Second Star", went 3-0-0 with a 0.97 goals-against average as he continues to key the playoff run of the surprising Bruins, who have won six straight games to climb to sixth in the East.

Knuble earned the week's "Third Star" honor after registering three goals and five assists in a 3-0-1 week for the Flyers, who have recovered from their recent 10-game losing streak.

Philadelphia occupies the eighth spot in the East, three points ahead of the Buffalo Sabres.