Finally, the NHL is thinking revolutionary. They see the NFL is starting to stagger with the backlash from all of Roger Goodell's rulings on hits. MLB had one of it's lowest rated World Series in decades, and if not for the LeBronathon, the NBA would be just an afterthought.
The NHL competition committee decided the selection of All-Star teams will be more akin to a 1st Grade game of kickball. I know it's just an exhibition, but this type of idea will keep things fresh and new every year. Hopefully it can aid in the development of rivalries and bad blood.
Just imagine Sid the Kid is a team captain. He's got the first pick in the game, and everyone is screaming for him to select Alex Ovechkin. He's thinking in his mind, "f that, I don't want a single Caps player on MY team". Steve Stamkos, welcome to #87's squad.
Perhaps say a player like Sean Avery makes it, who both captains dislike, and he's last picked? How hilarious will it be watching his facial expressions as the line of guys next to him dwindle away?
The selection process alone could be an event in itself, much like the NFL draft. Think of how sad/embarrassed/happy/overjoyed you were when Brady Quinn kept falling down the board. I can only hope I'm posted up at a bar with a restaurant full of NHL fans watching this process go down. Arguing over every selection.
Yes I'm biased, but I believe the NHL has by far the most exhilarating All-Star game and playoff system around. Only March Madness comes close, and that's purely based on the gambling aspect. The skills competitions are noteworthy in itself. I can remember watching Ray Bourque and Mark Messier as a kid battle over the accuracy contest. Or Al MacInnis or Al Iafrate rip 110 mph slap shots, in the hardest shot contest. It's a mini-Olympics of hockey.
Between this addition, the Winter Classic (PENS VS CAPS IN PITTSBURGH!!), and a new crop young All-Stars, the NHL is fighting it's way back from the dead. They're the movie equivalent to Rocky vs Drago. There's no way he should have made a comeback, but maybe, just maybe it still has a chance to become one of the top 3 sports in America (Canada already has it's priorities right; beer, hockey, and free healthcare).
The new NHL, I love this game!
Day At The Beach
13 years ago
everything in about this post feels good and right. aside from stamkos and crosby skating together. stamkos, crosby, ovie, and sedin should all be separated for optimal thrill.
ReplyDeleteI don't even watch hockey but I think this is an amazing idea! It would show who the players think are the best players.
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