As you may have read/heard/seen written in the sky, Niclas Wallin was traded to the San Jose Sharks today in a move that, while not entirely shocking, is still sad for those of us who remember some of the Secret Weapon's best moments. An original draft pick of the Carolina Hurricanes in 2000, Wallin has been a staple on the blueline in Raleigh putting up 69 points in 517 games played. But when it comes to Wallin, perhaps the quality of points is more important than the quantity. No one will ever forget Wallin's playoff OT heroics (3 goals is a franchise record!) against Montreal and New Jersey which led to him being dubbed "the Secret Weapon" by Caniac faithful.
But again, there is more to Wallin than meets the eye, especially in terms of what he brings to his team. He is the ultimate team guy who always puts the group above the individual, even if it means taking some good natured ribbing in the process as was the case with his goal against...well against the Hurricanes:
"In fact, former coach Peter Laviolette used Wallin’s gaffe on a highlight reel of bloopers to loosen up the team before the playoffs. 'We did a voice-over saying what a great move by Wallin to make the game close,' Forslund said. 'He took it all in stride -- he’s been a terrific Hurricane.'"That he has John. That he has.
Wallin is just one of those all-around good guys. He's not flashy, but he has created moments that will live in Hurricanes' lore forever. He does his job, but doesn't need his coaches to babysit him.
He's a man of few words, but is always quick with a joke (or an invitation to wrestle) to lighten the mood in a sometimes very tense locker room. He is a leader, but doesn't ask for any recognition. He's a hockey player who knows how to arrange his priorities (winning a game 7 the night before doesn't mean he can't take his son to hockey practice the next morning). He's the kind of guy that will bring a PR intern a pizza in a hotel lobby and then sit and eat with him. He is a man that loves his job and takes nothing for granted. "I love to come to the rink, and whether you win or lose this is something that not many people get a chance to do and you’ve got to enjoy that. All the history and all the overtime Secret Weapon stuff, I will look back when I’m done playing."His teammates adore him (especially his "brother from another mother"), his coaches trust him and his fans will always remember him. Thank you Nic for everything you've given to this organization. You will be missed and never be forgotten. Best of luck wherever life takes you.