Iginla shining bright for Flames, NHL.(The Dallas Morning News)

Byline: Mike Heika

All anyone needs to know about Jarome Iginla revealed itself in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals this week.

The Calgary Flames' captain scored a short-handed goal and was named first star of the game in a convincing road victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Then at the postgame news conference, he wore a cap that didn't tout an apparel company or luxury automobile but instead promoted Cure for Cancer, one of his favorite charities.

"He is, pretty much, the best person I know," said Lightning defenseman Brad Lukowich, who was Iginla's junior hockey teammate. "He's obviously a great player. But as good as he is, he is an even better person."

Iginla, 27, is everything the NHL needs right now. The league is threatened by a possible work stoppage, has seen its image tarnished by violent incidents and is suffering mightily in U.S. television ratings.

Amid the doom and gloom, Iginla's presence in the Stanley Cup Finals has been refreshing.

Once the property of the Stars, Iginla has blossomed into an outstanding player _ the best in the …