BY SCOTT HADDOW
Earlier this week, the Wolves caused a buzz when they suspended forward Akim Aliu indefinitely for conduct detrimental to the the team.
An incident after a 4-1 loss to Toronto last weekend sparked the drastic measure.
"It wasn't an issue with school or an altercation with a teammate," said Foligno about the suspension.
"It's an internal issue...this action is about putting the team first. It was a hard decision because of the work the entire club has put in to help Akim mature not just as a player but a person as well.
"He's a talented 17-year-old player. He's still part of this team and we're not giving up on him. We've spoke with his agent and his family to, hopefully, put a positive end to this situation so we can prepare for the 2007 playoffs. It had become a distraction to the club...it didn't benefit the team in any way and it had to be done."
On a more positive note, the Wolves will welcome back captain Marc Staal this weekend. Staal had missed last week's action due to a lower body injury. The two-time World Junior Championship gold medal winner  is expected to give the team a huge lift.
"He practiced hard on Tuesday," said Foligno. "The time off will pay big dividends as we move forward. He had five days off...it was probably the most time off he has had in four years. It will bode well. He has a refreshed attitude and mindset and knows what we expect from him as we go into the playoffs."
With all the turmoil surrounding the squad, Sudbury has brought in a young forward to skate with the team. Justin Dicks, 16, was called up from the Huntsville Otters of the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League.
The five-foot-nine, 150-pound forward had 17 goals and 41 points in 42 games this season.
"He's skating with the club...we're not sure if he will be playing," said Foligno. "He's getting a taste of the OHL. He's a really good skater and he's skilled and crafty with the puck. He's also a hard worker."
