Belated Congrats for Modano

So, I didn't have a chance to write about this yet, but Mike Modano scored his 500th goal on Tuesday March 13th, becoming only the second US born player to reach that milestone. It also brings him within 3 goals (well, 2 goals now, but I'll get there) of the all-time US born player record (Some may be thinking that Brett Hull had more than 502 goals - and they'd be right, but he was actually born in Canada. He has dual-citizenship). I've watched Modano play for a long time and I always enjoy seeing what he will do with the puck. His goal to get 500 was typical Modano of being in the right place at the right time.

Watching Modano shift from a pure-scorer to a complete two-way player was what changed my mind about him from when he first arrived in Dallas. He was often the best player on the team before, but that usually only showed up in the score sheet. After his transition, there were nights that he was the best player even when held scoreless. Although that didn't happen often. Modano has fallen off of his career point-per-game average, but only slightly and unless he decides to retire before next season, he'll soon own the all time US born player record for goals (could come in the next few games) and points. (He's only seventeen away now).

Through a very lucky set of circumstances, I was able to go to the game against the Flames last night. Not only did they win, but Modano scores his 501st goal and grabs an assist too. He's not as speedy as he once was, but he's still incredibly quick and fun to watch. So, congrats to Modano and I'm sure I'll be writing another post in a few games to crown another of his accomplishments.