View from above:

Some player observations from Friday's game versus Hamilton:

Tomas Popperle: Popperle looked good in his first AHL action. Moved side to side well, did o.k with rebounds and seemed controlled. If Ty Conklin can clear waivers, how good would a Conklin, Popperle tandem be?

Adam Pineault: Started slow but had a dynamite second period. Made some nifty moves and displayed a nice burst along with a dangerous shot. Showed potential on the penalty kill.

Filip Novak: Easily the best player on the ice all evening long. He will quarterback the Crunch's top power play unit and stabilize the Syracuse blueline. May not be as good offensively as Andy Delmore, but makes up for it with his strong all around play.

Trevor Hendrikx: I am starting to like Hendrikx more and more. Fought once and then in the third during a scrum in front of the Crunch crease he calmly skated by Ajay Baines and casually slashed him in the back of the leg. Only problem was referee Chris Brown saw him do it. He will learn in time to find out where the ref is first.

Andrew Murray: The second best player on the ice to me. Murray was physical and displayed a much improved offensive game. May be jumping the gun, but I believe Murray has a chance to be an AHL All-Star this season.

Kyle Wharton: Not bad for his first AHL action. Got beat to the outside a few times, but liked the fact the he was physical in front.

Phillipe Dupuis: Another player who started slow then picked it up as the game went on. Ignited one of the prettiest goals you will see, Motzko's second of the night, with a gorgeous feed to Jeff Szwez.

Joakim Lindstrom: Could really break out this season for the Crunch. Has a chance to score 30 goals if all goes right for him.

Brent Walton: Never been overly impressed with Walton, but I was definitely impressed with his shot on his second goal of the night. The type of player that sort of grows on you.