Blue Notes

OK, headed south in the Mountaineer to Cheesesteakville in a couple hours and dreading the late-afternoon congestion around Citibank Park---hard by the Wachovia Center--- where the Phillies could clinch.

If I arrive a half-hour or more after first pitch, it may be smoother.

Assume I'll listen to the Mets radio broadcast on the trip, interspersed with tunes. I'm thinking the Flushing Flashes make a stand today.

I know on the way back north post-game I'll be tapping the wheel to Chuck Berry's "You Can't Catch Me"---actually, the version I prefer is from Rolling Stones Now (1965).

"New Jersey Turnpike in the wee, wee hours
I was rolling slowly 'cause of drizzlin' showers
Up come a flattop, he was movin' up with me
Then come sailin' goodbye
In a little old souped-up mini
I put my foot in my tank and I begin to roll
Moanin' sirens was the state patrol
So I get out my wings and then I blew my horn
Bye-bye New Jersey, I become airborne..."

Anyway, on to hockey.

Wondering whether Jagr will play against the Flyers (don't see the need). Nigel Dawes probably should.

His three second-period assists against a semi-pro Islanders team on Friday notwithstanding, the kid has talent, and is probably the first call-up from Hartford.

I'm guessing Al Montoya will play at least some today, after Henrik Lundqvist (1-2-0) stopped 20 of 22. Will update everyone of the status of Steve Valiquette, who said he could play with the stitches in his glove hand, but the coaches may not want to risk it.

As for defenseman Andrew Hutchinson, he was released, according to coach Tom Renney, and apparently en route to Hartford, but as of last night was not put on waivers. That could happen today, I assume.

Random stat: Shanahan's two goals last night tied him with Gomez and Straka for pre-season lead.

For your daily planner: Rangers are off Sunday, so like me, you should catch some of Versus' opening telecast: Ducks-Kings from London. If your cable/sat provider allows....

More from the press room later, gang....