http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=3686832
Here are my NHL thoughts for the week...
1 - Let's give credit where it's due, Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers came on in relief of Mathieu Garon (5 unanwered goals on 20 shots) in Pittsburgh and posted a clean 3rd period. Then he got the start against NJD and was solid in stopping 37 of 38 shot in the Oilers 2-1 win. It's still early to tell, but could the Oil finally have a #1 goalie? Let's not forget, Roloson and Garon both are UFAs after this season...2 - It has come to light that the NYR have asked the league for draft compensation for the death of Alexei Cherepanov. Ok, wow. Are you kidding me? I understand kicking tires and asking the league to explore the rule book, just to see if anything could be done, BUT TO MAKE THE NEWS PUBLIC?! Common now, a purely classless move.
3 - Mark Parrish. Unsigned as of Nov. 4th. Scores a hat-trick in his first game with the Stars on Saturday the 8th. With 68 games left, he is on pace to ANNIHILATE the NHL record of 92 goals with 204!!! Boy it's nice to dream isn't it, Dallas?
4 - I read an article stating that a 2nd NHL franchise in Southern Ontario, would cost $850 Million (600 to the league, 250 to the Maple Leafs Sports Entertainment)!!! It is also reported that they would automatically become the 3rd most valuable team in the league (behind TOR &
NYR). In contrast, the Columbus Blue Jackets paid a $100,000 starting league fee in 1997, was purchased for $80 Million to actually HAVE the team and built a new arena for $150 Million. It is currently ranked as the 24th most valuable NHL franchise.5 - Forbes Magazine has done a pro-sports GM break down. It's based on 2 factors... #1 - team performance and #2 - salary compared to previous GM. Kevin Lowe made the list at #45, but was 12th amongst NHL GMs. Just for some daily Oiler bashing, thats pretty mediocre for all the glory he gets. Here's the link. http://www.forbes.com/business/2007/03/02/sports-greatest-gms-biz-cz_jg_0302gms.html
Here are my non-NHL thoughts for the week...
1 a - The Boise St. Broncos have the best home field ever. Its blue. Not 50% blue or 75% blue or a baby blue... It's 100%, full-field, FEAKIN' BLUE! I'm sensing a Golden field for the Eskies in the near future...1 b - My USC Trojans moved up one spot to #6 in the BCS rankings, but I still think they are getting the snub despite knocking off #21 Cal last week. Geez, does the BCS need a playoff format or what?
2 - Two words for Man United and Brett Edwards. Suck it. They lost to Arsenal this past weekend, while Chelsea held on to the #1 spot. Yep, jjjuuusssttt suck it.
3 - I've been watching Rugby League World Cup (damn, those are some big guys) and have noticed something that stood out huge to me. The referees are completely in control and never raise their voice. Allow me to explain the extreme control they have... When players get to aggressive or have committed a foul, the ref will bring over the player(s) WITH his captain(s). Before the players even speak, the referee warns the players with 'watch what you say, lads'. What a simple idea, its like they are buddies. The referee calmly explains the foul to the captain(s), then tells the captain to get control of his team (that's what captains are for, aren't they). No coaches involved, no arguments and a plain explanation. It places the onus on the players themselves. Calling Stephen Walkom...4 a - Anyone who thought the Bills were legitimate playoff contenders, please raise your hand. Hmmm, who do I see in the crowd... Steve Young, Bill Cowher and all the other NFL 'analysts'. Here's a stat for you boys, they are in last place in their division. Maybe these guys need two words too...
4 b - My Colts won and are only 1 game back of a wild-card playoff spot. And everyone can agree on one thing in sports... All you have to do is get in...
5 - Ari Gold is the best TV personality out there, by far. If you haven't seen Entourage, do it. I own all 4 seasons and its just ridiculous the things this guys says and does.Cheers.
-Smith
LETS HUG IT OUT BITCH!!!!!
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