
We get to know NHL players with five quick questions. Today's subject: Steve Mason, whose Blue Jackets are currently ranked second in the Central Division. Mason is the league's reigning rookie of the year.
What is your earliest hockey memory?
I just played road hockey in the street with my friends in Canada -- that was the thing to do, rollerblades, running around in shoes, whatever. I'm still friends with all of those guys. They definitely think I'm very fortunate, but they don't treat me any differently.
What is your favorite thing about playing in the NHL?
Being able to do something I love. My whole life, my goal has been to be in the NHL. To be able to go around and see all the NHL cities, I'm living the dream. You couldn't ask for more. Plus, I'm around the greatest group of guys -- and I'm not worrying about the bus anymore.
I don't think there is a worst part. Obviously, it's a tough schedule, but there are people getting up and going to work at 7 a.m. every day. We play hockey. Everything's good.
Which player would you most like to run into the boards hard?
Tomas Holmstrom from Detroit. He gives me a lot of grief in front of the net. We play them six times. He's in the crease too much, the entire period, especially on the power play. With the rules, you can't force him out, he can just stand there and get on my nerves.
If you could be one teammate, who would it be and why?
It's got to be Nasher (Rick Nash). He's got a lot going for him. He's the captain, he's been on the Olympic team, and he's had a lot of success in the NHL. He's the face of the franchise. That's a good spot to be in.




