Thrasher's Dany Heatley
Stars in Hotlanta

by NHL | Aug. 8, 2002

The "heat" is on in Atlanta. Selected 2nd overall in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Atlanta Thrashers, Right Winger Dany Heatley is burning up the competition-winning Rookie of the Year honors for the 2001-2002 season.

Born in Germany, but a native of Calgary, Heatley has already made a name for himself in just his first complete season in the National Hockey League.

The first indication that Heatley would grow to become an NHL star came when he was named the 1998-99 Canadian Junior A Player of the Year. One year later Heatley followed in his father's footsteps attending school and playing hockey at the University of Wisconsin, part of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA).

At the end of his first season, Heatley was selected as the WCHA's Rookie of the Year, in part for his contributions that helped Wisconsin win the WCHA regular season championship. After just one season at Wisconsin, Heatley could have entered the NHL, but realizing the importance of an education he returned to school.

During the 2000-2001 season, Heatley's second as a Badger, he led the team with 23 goals, 32 assists, 55 points, nine power-play goals and five game-winning goals. After his second season at Wisconsin, Heatley felt it was time to turn pro, but not before leading Team Canada to the bronze medal at the 2001 World Junior Championships, just as he had the year before.

Heatley made his debut in the NHL with the Atlanta Thrashers on October 4, 2001, posting his first assist that very same night against the Buffalo Sabres. During the October 19, 2001 meeting with the New York Rangers, Heatley scored his first NHL goal against fellow rookie and standout goaltender Dan Blackburn.

All of a sudden, teams were taking notice of the 20-year-old Heatley and his powerful shot with a quick release, in addition to his ability to make spectacular plays, especially on the power play. Heatley has also shown his ability to handle the puck with a long reach while carrying it with a deceptive speed.

Nicknamed "Heater," the Atlanta right winger is certain to be successful for the remainder of the season, and for many years to come.

Who is your closest friend in the NHL?
From my team, I spend the most time with Ilya Kovalchuk and I remain good friends with my college teammate Steve Reinprecht who plays for the Colorado Avalanche.

Who has been your toughest opponent in the NHL?
Mike Modano

What is it like playing for the Thrashers, as they are such a new addition to the NHL?
It's exciting to be on a young, up-and-coming team.

What exactly is a Thrasher?
It is the state bird of Georgia.

What's a typical off-day for you?
I like to use that time to sleep in, take it easy and relax.

Dany led all NHL rookies with
18 power-play points in 2001-2002.

Do you have an all-time favorite movie?
Major League

All-time favorite video game?
Nintendo NHL '94

What's your biggest strength on the ice?
My offensive game.

Is there one particular aspect to your play that you constantly strive to improve?
My strength and defensive play.

Who was your favorite player growing up?
Brett Hull