East Wins NHL All-Atar Game

EASTERN CONF. 8, WESTERN CONF. 7 ---------------------

ATLANTA (Ticker) - Marc Savard of the Boston Bruins scored with 21 seconds remaining in the third period, giving the East an exciting 8-7 victory over the Western Conference in the 56th NHL All-Star Game at Philips Arena.

A former member of the hometown Atlanta Thrashers, Savard was named to the East's roster as an injury replacement for another ex-Thrasher - Dany Heatley of the Ottawa Senators. After helping set up the tying goal by Eric Staal of the Carolina Hurricanes earlier in the third, Savard became the hero in his first career All-Star appearance.

Moments after Calgary Flames defenseman Dion Phaneuf saved a goal by intercepting a pass near the left goalpost, Staal gained possession of the puck behind the net. The 23-year-old dished to Buffalo Sabres defenseman Brian Campbell, who made a touch pass to Savard for a shot from the slot that got past St. Louis Blues goaltender Manny Legace for the winning tally. Staal, who finished with two goals and an assist, was named the game's Most Valuable Player.