Oilers helped Torres evolve an energy game

Raffi Torres continues to be a divisive name among hockey fans and ESPN.com takes a look at the catalyst he has become for the San Jose Sharks, as well as his checkered past with questionable hits.

After being drafted by the New York Islanders in 2000, the article notes Torres credited his early days with the Oilers for helping him evolve his game. Ethan Moreau and Steve Staios helped remind him to try to bring the energy every night.

"As a group of veterans, all we tried to do was create an understanding environment, one of trust," Staios told ESPN.com in a phone interview.

"It takes some time. The great thing about Raffi is that he was willing," Staios said. "He's a great teammate. It took him a lot of time, understanding his role, grappling with what every player goes through in a time where they have to figure out what can make them a full-time NHL player."

Staios called Torres 'one of the catalysts' in Edmonton's come-from-behind series win over San Jose in 2006 - the Cup Finals run year - with what Staios called a 'series-changing hit' on Milan Michalek.

"He's the type of player you want on your team, especially in a playoff series," Staios said. "There are some players you have to keep an eye on out there, and he's definitely one of them."

Source: Katie Strang, ESPN.com