Spezza's Value Ever Increasing

As a serious Ottawa Senators Fan, I follow my team more than the average guy.  Often found at the center of attention (pun intended) is Jason Spezza.  Before I go any further, I have to point something out about this city and its snobbish attitude towards the red, black and gold.  People in Ottawa are quick to be critical about criticism aimed at criticizing the critical play of our critical players, especially at critical times during critical games of this obviously critical season.  

Catch my drift?

Minus the never ending goalie controversy, another popular criticism has been Spezza's turnovers.  People are always quick to dismiss the ridiculous point tallies that Spezza has put up since his ascension to the NHL.  My roommate, always says that if he played with Dany Heatley and Daniel Alfredsson, that he could put up as many or more points as does Spezza...  What really drives the point home, is that he doesn't even play hockey.  Nonetheless, the fact of the matter is that playing with players of that caliber comes with great expectations.

Many people don't realize that Spezza carries the puck more then any other player on the Senators... Much like the point guard in basketball, who has the responsibility of carrying the ball up the floor and making the crucial pass that lead to scoring opportunities, tallying assists along the way.  As point guards always lead the league in assists, those who struggle lead the league in turnovers.  Spezza is essentially the point guard of the top line with two snipers on his wings.  Obviously, if he is always carrying the puck, he is the most likely player to turn it over.  What is encouraging is the fact that he is becoming more and more responsible with the puck as he matures into the superstar that we all want him to become.

On another note, Spezza finally made the switch from wooden sticks to one piece composite sticks.  Having played with both last winter, I can personally attest to the fact that the new sticks are way-way-way better from a performance standpoint.  Better because they are lighter, stronger, and more responsive.  Which means that he will stick handle faster, shoot harder, and he won't have to wind up as far back to get good wood (pun intended, again) on his shot.  

Anyways, defense is not supposed to be the strongest skill for our top scoring center.... I am of the school of thought that the Best Defense is a Great Offense, which is what Spezza personifies.  Leave the defensive criticisms to the defensive specialists.  I don't see anybody criticizing Chris Kelly for his lack of scoring.....