Jury still out on Rogers, Helbling

By DAMIAN CRISTODERO
Published September 28, 2005

TAMPA - Is Andy Rogers the Lightning's answer at the No.6 defensive spot? How about Timo Helbling ?

Coach John Tortorella said he isn't sure.

Tortorella said both deserve to still be in training camp, and he praised their various strengths. But Rogers is 19 years old and in his first pro camp. Helbling, 24, has just one North American season to his credit, 2003-04 in the American Hockey League.

"Andy Rogers has really shown a lot of good things and has a tremendous future," Tortorella said Tuesday. "But does it start now, at 19, at that position? I don't know. I worry about that a little bit.

"Helbling is a little more mature physically and has shown steady progress as far as understanding our team concept. But am I comfortable with him as a six? I worry about that."

That said, Tortorella admitted there may not be many other options. He said there likely will be more opportunities to pick up players off waivers or through trades as teams make their final roster and salary cap cuts.

Until then, Rogers and Helbling are the main players in this drama.

"If it happens to be one of these guys, we're going to bring them along slowly," Tortorella said. "I still think they need to get a good foundation by playing in the American League. But it's not a perfect world."

Tortorella said he could compensate for their inexperience by using five defensemen in certain situations and giving Rogers or Helbling spot duty.

"You don't want to blow these guys up and put them in situations where they're constantly struggling," he said. "That's not fair to anybody, to them or the team."

HELBLING'S ADVANTAGE: Not only is he five years older than Rogers, Helbling last season played with and against NHL players in Switzerland's premier league.

"I think that helped me in knowing I can handle them," Helbling said. "Playing against guys like ( Joe ) Thornton and ( Rick ) Nash , and having NHL players on my team, it really helped my confidence."

Helbling said his goal coming into camp was to make the opening-day roster.

"And I think I have a realistic chance," he said. "I'm just trying to go day-by-day and take every chance to make a good impression."

DON'T GET COMFORTABLE: Tortorella sent a strong message that some players expected to make the 20-player roster shouldn't be so secure.

"We talk a lot about we're carrying only 20 and it seems like we're pretty set with 19, but that can change pretty quick," he said. "I'm not particularly crazy with how a couple of players are going about their business right now that are within the 19."

GLITZ & STICKS: The annual charity event is Oct. 11 at the St. Pete Times Forum. Tickets are $250 and sponsorship packages start at $1,500. All proceeds benefit the Lightning Foundation and Tampa General Hospital. For information, call (813) 301-6590 or go to tampabaylightning.com.

[Last modified September 28, 2005, 02:30:38]