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Thursday, October 28, 1999
Juneau still no go
Newest Senator aiming for home debut on Saturday
While the rest of the Senators were done their skating exercises yesterday, the club's newest player was still doing laps around the Corel Centre ice -- an indication he'll be forced to wait for his debut.
"It's precautionary more than anything," said Ottawa coach Jacques Martin of the decision not to dress Juneau tonight against the Calgary Flames. "I'm pretty sure he'll be ready for Florida Saturday."
After sitting out for almost two months waiting for a new contract, the Senators didn't want to put Juneau back into live action after only three days of practice. Instead, they've opted to give him more time.
Signed to a deal which will pay him $1.7 million US this season, Juneau would like to start collecting his paycheque but understands the Senators' decision not to be hasty by inserting him into the lineup.
"You know they don't hold eight exhibition games and a month of training camp for nothing," said Juneau. "Once you get into the games, it's a lot different than three days of practice.
"I'd like to play, but I think there's some concern because players who have rushed back have been hurt. I don't mind waiting because I'd rather contribute later on. I'll be ready to go when I get the word."
WAIVERING ABOUT: With the arrival of Juneau, centre Steve Martins has been placed on waivers. He'll clear tomorrow at noon and if nobody else picks him up, that doesn't mean he'll be sent to the IHL's Grand Rapids Griffins.
In fact, Martins will likely be kept in Ottawa because the club will have 30 days to decide what to do with him. That would suit the Gatineau native just fine. He's not interested in making a move.
"To be honest with you, I didn't expect it, but there's nothing I can do about it," said Martins. "I have to wait and see what happens. Maybe I'll stay here, who knows?
"It's really special here in this room, the city, the team and the coaches."
-- With files from Lisa Burke
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