Parrish looks in exceptional shape and seems to be skating better than ever after working this summer with powerskating extraordinaire Barry Karn, who runs the local Karn Skating Dynamics and works with the Calgary Flames.

“I’ve never felt better on the ice. It’s amazing. I’ve known him for years and finally got stubborn enough to realize I probably need a little help with my skating. I can already feel the difference.”

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“When he was 10 he was skating with high school kids. One of his teachers, Jodi Karn, said, ‘See that kid out there. You’re going to be watching him on TV some day.’ Even when he was just 5-3 and 115 pounds he was fearless. Once he went up against a 6-3 player and Nick came out of the corner with the puck.”

Way to go Nick!

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Timing is right for Stuart

Bruins could use a solid defenseman

In 2006-07, Stuart made the most of his NHL playing time, finishing with a team-best plus-7 rating. When he’s on his game, Stuart plays a mean, rugged style and doesn’t back down from the rough stuff. Off the ice, from Colorado College’s Scott Owens to Providence’s Scott Gordon, Stuart’s coaches rave about his off-the-charts character and dressing-room demeanor.

Mark Stuart's work with Barry has improved the efficiency of his stride

“I wouldn’t call it a surprise,” Chiarelli said when asked if Stuart could become a valuable contributor. “He’s got a pretty good pedigree. He was the captain of that world junior team. He’s excelled in his role wherever he’s been.”

With his ankle feeling fine, Stuart has been working out with skating coach Barry Karn, formerly employed by Calgary and most recently hired by St. Louis. One criticism of Stuart was that at the NHL level, he’d be a tick slower than opposing forwards, allowing them to gain position in the danger zones.

Under Karn, Stuart has concentrated on his skating technique in tight areas, adding power to his stride and making his bursts more efficient.