One thing that I have definitely been guilty of, thus far, is focusing on one sport. Granted, it's the one that I seem to take the most interest in at the moment, and it is also the one that is the easiest to follow. But I feel as if I have been doing a disservice to my fellow hockey brethren, so I'd like to put my take on the season, thus far.
Again, as an epic homer, I have to start off with the Colorado Avalanche as being one of the most pleasant surprises in the league this year. After an absolutely dismal year, last year, finishign last in the Western Conference, not that much was expected of the Avs. Even less was expected when it seemed that the Avs were making moves to dump salary when the sent Ryan Smyth over to LA for Kyle Quincey and Tom Preissing. A definite positive of the offseason was the acquisition of goalie Craig Anderson who has more than delivered. Draft pick Matt Duchene was also seen as probably the best pick of the draft, as many people viewed Duchene as one of the most complete players in the draft. Still, with all these things, nobody expected anything, including myself. Now we're into December and the Avs sit atop the Northwest division standings and have many people turning their heads. Now, whether the Avs have the consistency to keep this up until the end of the year, I don't know. But I definitely think that John Buccigross really needs to change his pick, as the ESPN NHL "expert", at putting the Avs last in the Western Coneference. I don't know that they'll win the division, but I think that they should still make the playoffs.
After a break out year, last year, which included a Vezina Trophy, Tim Thomas has been down right mediocre. Hard to believe how average he has been after how amazing he was all of last year. 36 wins last year, and only 114 goals against in 54 starts. After 18 starts this year, he's 7-7-4, and already has 45 goals against. Definitely not the start that he was hoping for. Plus, he's been injured as of late. Fortunately, his back up has been absolutely amazing and still has the Bruins 2nd in their division. Thomas has proven that he is an exceptional goalie, and this will hopefully just be a bump in the road for him.
What is going on with the LA Kings? After years of mediocrity, they suddenly have appeared at the top of the conference standings. They are tied with San Jose, point wise, at this juncture of the season, but have more wins and, therefore, a better standing. Apparently Ryan Smyth was just the thing that they needed to get them on a role. He definitely provides that kind of veteran leadership that can ground the younger guys and help them have somebody to emulate.
Also, why is Gary Bettman still commissioner? Why is he railing so hard against moving the Coyotes to a place where they might actually have a strong, passionate, and loyal following? Because they don't have a large TV market? Well, Phoenix is playing better this year, but they would still be better served in Canada where the team itself, not just Bettman, could make some revenue.
I have to say that I am looking forward to the Olympics this year. Should make some for some very interesting hockey!
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