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Saturday, September 16
 
Watch superstitions develop

Special to ESPN.com

Throughout Minnesota's inaugural training camp, Scott Pellerin has been writing a diary on ESPN.com. Users have emailed Scott hundreds of questions and comments, and below are some of his responses. If you want to ask Pellerin a question or send him a comment, click here. If he gets some free time before the season starts, perhaps he'll answer some more.


Will you try to find teammates on the Wild to continue the pregame rituals that you had in St. Louis? The passes between you and Connie (Craig Conroy) that Prongs (Chris Pronger) knocked down, and the three shots that you took on Noodles (Jamie McLennan) as he stood in the corner waiting for his turn in the nets?

Darren Meyer
St. Louis, Mo.

Pellerin: You are a very observant fan, Darren. I didn't know we were that obvious! Rituals like that just progress during the season, so I'm sure before long, they will develop here in Minnesota.


Just wanted to say quickly that, as a longtime Devil fan, you've always been one of my favorites. And it was great to watch you in New Jersey, Albany -- and watching you make a name for yourself the last few years in St. Louis. I hope they give you the "C" out there 'cause you deserve it. Do you think having played for coach Jacques Lemaire before gives you any advantage as far as his system and philosophies?

Drew Ruscil
New York, N.Y.

Pellerin: Thanks for the e-mail Drew. Yes, I do think it is an advantage. We used the same system in Albany as Lemaire did in New Jersey. I'm not sure what type of system we are going to use here, but so far it looks the same -- which would be good for me.


How does this training camp compare to the others you have attended in the past with other teams? Also, say hi to Mike Ramsey. I was one of his biggest fans since I was a kid. He will be missed back in Buffalo. He will be a great assest to your team the way he molds young defensemen in today's game. Good Luck this season.

Ray Haberl
Buffalo, N.Y.

Pellerin: The training camp format has been the same as others that I have gone to. It wasn't as organized in the beginning as others have been, but that's to be expected with a new team. This is the first time I have met Mike Ramsey (Wild Asst. coach). So far, he has done a great job and is a good guy.


Just wondering how the rookies are coming along, and which ones look like they could make the team? Also, from what you see now, how successful will the Wild be this season?

Jesse Hoheisel
Minneapolis, Minn.

Pellerin: I think the rookies are doing great. The organization has really put together a great group of prospects which will be good for the future. I think the season will be successful based on the group we have. As far as wins ... we'll do our best!


I'm a big New Jersey Devils fan, and I wanted to pass along best wishes to you, your family, and your team. Devils fans always are loyal to past members that left under any circumstances, and I wanted to let you know that you are always welcome back in Jerz. How's the weather in Minn.?

Howard Krieger
Berkeley Heights, N.J.

Pellerin: I always like going back to New Jersey to play. The fans are great, and I have friends on the team. The weather so far is beautiful, but from what I hear the winters can be rough. I'm a little scared.


Just wanted to wish you luck and let you know many of us in Worcester are enjoying your column. I was disappointed to see you leave the Blues organization, breaking up the best checking line in hockey, but hope you and your fellow former IceCats McLennan, J.J. Daigneault and Gregg Naumenko do well.

Stan Hosmer
Worcester, Mass.

Pellerin: I will miss the Blues organization, but I was happy to have the opportunity to play in Worcester and St. Louis. It is great being out here with the former IceCats, and we are all looking forward to this season.





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