The NHL has named Eric Staal "Player of the Week" for the last week of October AND "Player of the Month" for the month of October.  You can read about it in the Hurricanes' press release..

I was impressed by Staal in 2003-2004 when he made the team as an 18 year old rookie.  I guess it may have been easier to make the team because the Canes simply weren't that good last season, but it's not easy for any young player to come into this league and play.  Staal struggled through the year - as did the team - but we saw flashes of brilliance.

The lockout was probably the best thing that could've happened for him.  He suddenly had a year to workout, mature his body, and work on his game as a full-time player in the minors.  He had a great year last year, setting numerous scoring records.

Well, one month into the new NHL season, we can see that Staal has got what it takes to lead this franchise into the future.