This week's Tire of the Week is Michael Nylander. Despite his .67 ppg NHL average, Michael put up three points in game 7 and 5 points in game 8 resulting in wins against the Seattle Slapsticks and Mighty Mice. No STD forward or defenseman scored more than Nylander this week. In fact, his performance was so impressive, he was asked to join the cast of The View.

We caught up with Michael after the taping of Monday's program.

So, how do you feel about putting up eight points this week?

I couldn't be happier. I really hadn't been scoring well and I knew if I could have one big week, people would start paying attention.

Is that what landed your job with The View?

Kind of. Barbara and I go way back, but all the attention from hockey certainly didn't hurt.

How do you know Barbara Walters?

We've been friends for the past eight or nine years. I used to clean out her pool—

You mean you were her pool boy?

Well, yeah. We've had some great times. <wink>

Do you mean to tell me that you and that old whiney lady—

At this point, the interview was terminated by Barbara Walters when she sucker-punched me in the side of my head with her bony, razor-sharp fist. After suffering a number of blows, I was able to get Ms. Walters to stop her assault by recounting a traumatic moment from my childhood. Once I began to cry, she left, seemingly satisfied.