Nieminen brings the meatloaf

Al Maki serves up a great portrait of San Jose Sharks pest Ville Nieminen today.

"I would love to be a goal scorer," he said yesterday. "But this is how I have to play. You do whatever brings meatloaf to the table."

This always comes as a shock to hockey fans who know Nieminen only from his on-ice adventures, but he is a gracious fellow and an enjoyable interview. Talking to Nieminen, you're never quite sure what will pop out of his mouth.