Welcome to Boston Naoko!

With my internet in place, and my first week of working at a new job behind me I am ready to weigh in on something in the Bruins world. In the past week or so, NESN announced that they were replacing the tall and goofy Rob Simpson with Naoko Funayama. I think Naoko is going to bring a lot to the table and I have had nothing but good thing to say about her since the day I met her back in 2006.

Prior to NESN, Naoko worked for WMUR in the Sports department. I met her while I was doing my Public Relations internship with the Monarchs for the 06-07 season. She was always very cordial and respectable to myself and the other two PR interns. On game nights, she always tried to make small talk with us off camera up until the moment she went on air at the arena. It may even be possible that I will be attending her goodbye party tomorrow night. It pays to know the right people.

As for me, the first week with the Monarchs went well. If anyone needs some season tickets, buy them though me!

Thompson & St. Pierre Resign

The Boston Bruins announced earlier today that they have resigned RFAs Nate Thompson and Martin St. Pierre. Nate Thompson served as the Providence Bruins captain last season and St. Pierre is expected to be a top-2 center with very favorable wings in Wheeler, Marchand, Marquardt, Soderberg, and Lehtonen among other possibilities. So, look for St. Pierre to have top end numbers in the "A" column. For more, check out Boston.com and/or the Bruins official website.

I need to forewarn my readers that this week will be a very slow week on here as I am preparing to move to Manchester on Friday August 1st so, the computer will not be high on my list of priorities. However, if I see something that needs to be on here, I'll do a quick post. I won't be going out of my way to get new material on here though. Thanks so much for your understanding and thanks to all the guys (and ladies too) who have wished me well on my trek to New Hampshire. Your wishes do not go unnoticed so, thank you.

Go B's!

-McKeon

B's & 'Hawks Exchange Centers

The Bruins acquired center Martin St. Pierre from the Chicago Blackhawks today in return for center Pascal Pelletier. St. Pierre will most likely spend the majority of the time in Providence but, he can provide extra depth (as if they need depth at center) in injury situations.

McKeon's Take: This certainly doesn't bring the cup to Boston but, it will help out the development program down in the AHL. Here is St. Pierre's stats/scouting report. From an AHL/depth perspective, I like this move. St. Pierre has definitely had some very successful seasons in the AHL. I really have a feeling that Chiarelli is up to something because he has been quite busy in the last 48 hours.

Murray Placed On Waivers

The Boston Bruins have placed winger Glen Murray on unconditional waivers. This is to be the first step in the buyout process.

7/24 2:09pm Edit: Muzz cleared

Wideman Signing Confirmed

The Dennis Wideman signing is finally official. He signed a 4 year deal worth $15.5 million total with a $3.825 million annual cap hit which should be a steal in the final year of his contract. This is slightly less than what was reported yesterday on sportsnet.ca. He will receive $3.25, $3.75, $4, and $4.75 million dollars over the course of the contract respectively.

There will be a 3-day "Quiet" period then a 48-hour buyout period for the Bruins to get themselves under the cap as they are now $1,536,666 over the $56.7 million cap limit. They do not have to be below $56.7 million until the start of the regular season.

"One of the tools we have is the buyout, and that could be anybody," said GM Peter Chiarelli. "Another tool is a trade or sending players to the minors."

State Of The Nation Address

Dear Bruins Fans,

With the July heat and humidity pulling on your will to leave any building with air conditioning, I give you something that can cool you off. Maybe make you think of a much more satisfying thought. Perhaps a fresh sheet of ice with regular season hockey games being played on it. I digress.

There is just under two months until training camp gets underway and the Bruins Brass is still not determined. However, there is no need to fret. There are still moves to be made and there are future decisions being mulled over by Pete, Cam, Donny, and Claude...among other executives.

The team is over the cap as Peter Chiarelli has stated that they are very close to signing Dennis Wideman and if he is to get what is being reported, the Bruins will be at least $1.5 million over the cap. So, decisions have to be made. Does Glen Murray go? If he does, how does he go? Buyout? Trade? Waivers? Peter Schaeffer is another guy with the same questions. Even PJ Axelsson or Andrew Alberts are possibilities as all of these guys have contracts that are up at the end of the 2008-2009 season.

No matter what happens, Peter Chiarelli has been making moves that are in the best interest of the franchise, both present and future. So, there is no doubting that Chiarelli will be doing the right thing in the upcoming weeks. Have faith Bruins fans, there will be a team in September that you can be quite confident in.

Cordially,

McKeon

Boston.com Wideman Update...

4:15 pm: New update...

Apparently, the deal announcement is premature.

Bruins Ink Wideman

The Boston Bruins and defenseman Dennis Wideman have avoided arbitration and agreed to a 4 year deal worth $15.75 million. The cap hit is just over $3.9 million which puts the team 1,599,166 over the current cap of $56.7 million. A team is allowed to be 10% over the given cap space until the season begins.

McKeon's Take: I like this signing. It is a bit expensive but, with the drought/availability of good young defensemen, it's not a bad move. Because of the signing and the avoided arbitration hearing, there is a small buyout period (I believe 48 hours) where the Bruins can buyout guys to get rid of some of their salary off of the cap. If a there is no buyout, there will be a trade coming. Look for some activity from Peter Chiarelli in the next week or so.

Source: Sportsnet.ca

Bruins Schedule Annouced

The National Hockey League has announced the 2008-2009 schedule for the entire league. The Bruins start in Colorado on October 9th, and play 3 other games on the road in Minnesota, Montreal, and Ottawa before they come home to face Pittsburgh in their home opener on October 20th. For a full look at the schedule click here.

Off Topic

I hate when there aren't fresh posts up on here as much, and possibly more than, you do on here so, I figured that I would stop in and put something new on here.

I feel terrible for anyone who missed tonight's MLB Home Run derby. Watching a reformed Josh Hamilton hit absolute bombs at such an amazing frequency was truly remarkable. After battling a severe drug addiction he has done a complete 180 and is performing at an outstanding rate while trying to help troubled youths avoid what he went through. Hamilton hit 28 home runs in one round...ONE ROUND! He clearly burned himself out for the finals because he lost 5-3 to Justin Morneau but, that doesn't matter. The show wasn't in the result it was in the first round. Highlights won't do it justice either. Just watching everything unfold, the reactions of the players and fans, and his initial reaction after his first couple home runs was amazing. After 10 dingers it was apparent to everyone watching that history was being made.

Another cool thing was the man who pitched for him. His 71 year old American Legion baseball coach from his young days, Clay Counsil, who threw well over 80 pitches. Apparently when Hamilton was younger he promised Counsil he would bring him as his pitcher if he ever made it to the HR Derby. Truly a great story all around.

On a side note, Erin Andrews looked wonderful as usual as she was successful in being eye candy and doing a stand-up job with interviews. Unfortunately I couldn't track down a picture of her from tonight.

3rd Jersey?

From boston.com (Fluto Shinzawa)
The Bruins have confirmed that they will wear a third jersey for the 2008-2009 campaign. The final design has not been released yet but, it is highly possible that it will feature the retro bear that is on the shoulders of the current uniform.

It may, or may not, look like this...


McKeon's Take: Eh, I'm torn. To be honest, I think they should go with a gold uniform because they already have a black uniform...as long as it's not mustard yellow like the last mistake. Either way, this seems to be the prototype. Your thoughts?

Development Camp 2008 Pics

The following are pictures from Wednesday's version of the Bruins Development Camp 2008. The pictures were taken by Federko who is one of my frequent commenters. Those of you who do not comment frequently or are just stopping by should learn from him. Hope you all enjoy! Just a couple more months until all the big boys hit the ice!

^--Bergeron defending Reid.

^--Hamill and Wheeler.

^--Hutchinson, Courchaine, Regan, and Manny under the direction of Bob Essensa.

^--Manny, the potential number one tender next season.

^--Stretching

Good News In Wilmington

Both Patrice Bergeron and Manny Fernandez will be skating this week at Ristuccia Arena in Wilmington, Ma. They will be on the ice from 10-11 am and will not be on the ice at the same time as the skaters in the developmental camp. For two "key" guys who missed significant time last season due to injury this is a very good sign they are giving 100 percent to get back to their peak level of play.

EDIT: Bergeron and Fernandez will be skating with the development squad starting Wednesday as the prospects will be doing medical and fitness testing Tuesday.

New Free Agent List

I know the Bruins are up near the cap, especially with Wideman's arbitration hearing hanging in the balance. However, I put up some new guys on the list in the right column that could help fill in some smaller roles in the event of a trade. None of these will probably happen but, hey, no one thought gas prices would escalate to this either.

Post Free Agent Frenzy

I hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July (and the 1st of July for you Canucks). I should have just said respective Independence Days. Oh, there's a delete button? Whoops.

This past Tuesday, the Bruins picked up Michael Ryder and leading up to the signing I was completely against the idea of him signing here. Why? Marian Hossa. To fill my metaphor quota for the day, I was too busy drooling at the fact that the prom queen, soon to be super-model (Hossa) thought for a moment that she liked me. However, all along a pretty solid looking underclassmen (Ryder) wanted me like crackhead needs...well, crack. So, I decided to "settle" and explore the world of the underclassman because the prom queen was out of my league, allegedly. In the big picture, things could work out between me and the underclassman. I now like where things are going. The best part about it, the prom queen winked at me and said, maybe I'll see you this time next year when you are little more mature stud. What she really means is, get a job and make some cash so you can afford me. It's the best of both worlds!

Got all that? I digress

Ryder needed to relocate. He wasn't getting along with Guy Carbonneau and he has had much success under Bruins coach, Claude Julien in the not too distant past. The winger wasn't getting any solid ice-time nor was he ever playing with a true set-up man, enter Marc Savard. I think of him as kind of a old fashion Glen Murray. A guy who can finish from anywhere in the slot, all you have to do is put the puck on his stick. The Bruins lacked that last year, and now they have it. With that being said, here is how I would fill out my line combinations WITH Murray and Axelsson.

Sturm-Savard-Ryder
Lucic-Bergeron-Kobasew
Axelsson-Krejci-Kessel
Schaeffer-Sobotka-Muzz
Bench: Nokelainen, Thornton, Reich

Chara-Wideman
Ward-Stuart
Ference-Alberts
Bench: Hnidy

Thomas
Fernandez

I still truly think that this team needs to make a move to get some kind of puck-moving defenseman that has some sort of an establishment in the league. I wouldn't hold my breath on that but, I still feel as though is a need. You know Ward is going to be hurt at one point or another because of his balls to the wall attitude so, it's possible that a move now could help out when that occurs. A guy who could possibly fill this role is Steve McCarthy, a young unsigned free agent who played in Atlanta last year. Maybe Chiarelli can get him cheap if he doesn't sign for a while. I know he's not established but, he could fill a void.

Plenty of off-season left for Chia and the Pets to figure something out.

WHAT?!

Just a real quick thought during the 4th of July festivities. Steve Bernier to Vancouver for picks not including a first rounder?! What is wrong with Buffalo? They are going from 1st to worst in a quick 2 year span...horrible deal.

I'll try to get my thoughts on Ryder/lines/needs/trade possibilities that I'd like tonight, if not, tomorrow.

Marian Hossa Finally Signs

Wow. Just wow. Marian Hossa and his agent Ritch Winter (great first name for a slimy sports agent) signed a 1 year deal with the Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings. Hossa wasn't kidding when he said he wanted to go to a contender. That team is ridiculous now. At least it is in the west and more importantly at least it's not Montreal! The great part about this is that 364 days from now, the Bruins can sign Hossa when Murray and Manny officially come off the books (among others).

The rich get richer and the great become greater. This team is going to go 82-0 like the Pats did (16-0, I know) and then lose the Cup to the underdog Bruins on an overtime goal in game 7 by Jeremy Reich (equivalent to David Tyree freak helmet catch). A guy can dream can't he?

Hossa to the Stanley Cup Champion Bruins in '09!

I love jokes.

Ghost Ryder In The Hub

Funny story. I decided to worship my computer from 10:00 a.m. until 7:30ish p.m. Through that time, only the Wheeler signing occured for the Bruins. I decided to go out roller blading (way better than running especially for hockey players for obvious reasons), take a shower, and eat some dinner. I stroll back to my computer expecting more of the same...nothing. I was wrong because I discovered this...

The Boston Bruins have signed former Montreal Canadiens forward Michael Ryder to a 3 year deal worth $4 million per season. I know I wasn't the brain child of his possibilities but, at 7:20 before I headed out I stated this. See what I did there? I made sure everyone knew how great I was, just like Eklund. I guess it's because I was reading his complete nonsense all day long. Sorry about that.

5:00 Update

Hossa fans, I think we are out of luck. I would look for a secondary winger or a D-man to be signed but, not Hossa...

EDIT 7:20 Yes, Hossa will be waiting one more day so, there is still hope. Also, media members are being put on hold for a press conference with Peter Chiarelli saying, "They are waiting on a player as we speak." Could be Ryder but, who knows?

3:00 Theory

I have a theory as to why things have been so quiet on Causeway St. All the teams that were reportedly going for Hossa have made noise in both rumors, signings, and trades down other avenues since the late morning while there has been no noise from the Bruins. I am still a firm believer that the fewer amount of concrete rumors the better because it shows profesionalism. Are Chia and the pets ironing out some details with Hossa? Hard to tell but, this could be the calm before the storm.

This situation could be a very good thing, or a very bad thing.

PS. The more I have thought about things the more I want Hossa here at any price. If it's 12 years/$100 mil then so be it. This makes the top two lines extremely potent and ties up the cap 8.333 mil per which will have little effect on the cap in 9-12 years. Just look at how much the cap has inflated the last couple seasons since the lockout.

Wheeler Signs

Blake Wheeler has signed an entry level contract with the Bruins. Per club policy, the terms were not disclosed.

Is Hossa Really Coming To Boston?

For the third time this morning I have heard on the WEEI sports flash that the Bruins are "set to offer Marian Hossa a contract worth $100 Million over 12 years."

12 years? 12? A bakers dozen minus one because you work with a fat kid? You mean like the biggest number on the clock? You mean, like the size of my...foot? Sorry. Does twelve years seem a bit excessive for a 29 year old here? I could understand this for Crosby or Ovechkin at that age because you know they are special players. Is someone going to offer Mats Sundin a lifetime contract?

If Hossa comes here at that price Murray and Manny will be as good as gone. Just over an hour to go...

July 1st...Here We Go!

Ok, it is now just after midnight and teams are now able to negotiate with unrestricted free agents. Signings are allowed to occur at noon. Expect the worst, and hope for the best and make sure you make a wish upon a star for who you want the most!









Jimmeny Cricket helped turn a freakin wooden doll into a human friggan being. If you wish your ass off he could certainly bring Hossa in under the cap...right? Need your help here Walt.

Come onnnnnn Hossa

Noke's Back!

The Boston Bruins announced today that they have signed forward Petteri Nokelainen to a 2 year contract worth an average of $850,000. Nokelainen will make $800,000 this year and $900,000 in 2009-2010. This was an excellent move by Chiarelli to keep his cap hit under $1 million. The sidebar is updated with the cap hit and the available money left for the Bruins to spend on free agents. Just over 5 hours to go until it all begins!

Defensive Comparisons

Wade Redden, Age: 31, Last year's Cap Hit: $6.5 Million
80GP, 6G, 32A, +11, 4PPG, 12PPA, 60PIM

Brian Campbell, Age: 29, Last Year's Cap Hit: $1.75 Million
83 GP, 8G, 54A, +8, 5PPG, 28PPA, 20PIM

Dmitri Kalinin, Age: 27, Last year's Cap Hit: $2.25 Million
46GP, 1G, 7A, -7, 1PPG, 2PPA, 32PIM

Brooks Orpik, Age: 27, Last Year's Cap Hit: $1.075 Million
78GP, 1G, 10A, +11, 0PPG, 0PPA, 57PIM

Ron Hainsey, Age: 27, Last Year's Cap Hit: $900 K
78GP, 8G, 24A, -7, 8PPG, 15PPA, 25PIM

Mark Streit, Age: 30, Last Year's Cap Hit: $600 K
81GP, 13G, 49A, -6, 7PPG, 27PPA, 28PIM

After looking at the numbers and the strengths and weaknesses I have come to the conclusion that if the Bruins can not sign Redden or Campbell that they need to put in a strong bid for local boy (Bolton, CT/UMass Lowell) Ron Hainsey. He shows more offensive promise than Kalinin and Orpik by the numbers because the Bruins roster already has plenty of defensemen that can provide Orpik/Kalinin numbers/intangibles. As for Mark Streit, I'm not sure if I am sold on him or not. I do like that if things are not working on defense he can move up to forward. If he were to sign, I hope he isn't the only blueliner coming into Boston.

Hossa Comparison

With just about 12 hours until general managers can sign free agents I have come to believe that it could be impossible to sign Hossa due to his demands and the Bruins restraints. Do I want Chiarelli to sign Hossa? Of course I do. However, he could very well go elsewhere which in turn, would leave the team scrambling for a plan B. I have your plan B that could possibly equal production with a cheaper cap hit.

Marian Hossa, Age: 29, Last year's Cap Hit: $7 Million
72GP, 29G, 37A, -14, 8PPG, 21PPA, 36PIM

Radim Vrbata, Age: 27, Last Year's Cap Hit: $1.225 Million
76 GP, 27G, 29A, +6, 7PPG, 8PPA, 14 PIM

Ok, these guys are eerily similar when it comes to numbers and when you click on their names and look at their assets and their flaws it makes you wonder a bit. I can even explain the numbers as to why Vrbata is at a slight disadvantage to Hossa. Hossa has far more assists because of who he had to set up this past season (Kovalchuk, Crosby, Malkin, etc.). Vrbata had Doan, Mueller, Reinprecht, etc. Which grouping would you rather set up or get passes from (granted the first group is from two teams)? The Phoenix team plus/minus was -97 so it is amazing that anyone could be in the plus. Vrbata had the highest +/- among forwards for the Coyotes.

Coming up...defensive plan B...and possibly plan C

Liles Resigns in Colorado

Well, change Liles in my previous post to any of the D-men I have listed on the right column. Oh well, Liles's previous season sort of had me turning the other way on him anyhow, so, all is well that ends well I suppose. Time's a tickin' here...

McKeon's Realistic Dream Team

I mentioned in a previous post that July 1st feels like Christmas right now and considering that signing day is here I am starting to let my mind run wild of the gifts that Santa...er, Chiarelli will bring. I'm thinking about what I put on my "list" and I am thinking about "toys" that I "need" that will make life more tolerable. I'm not doing a Spezza-Crosby-Ovechkin-Lecavalier line (yes, I know there are four there) because a hobo doesn't ask Santa for a plasma screen, a PS3, and a blackberry. Why? Because he has no place to plug any of that swag in. Holy metaphors. Anyhow, here is the line-up I am hoping to wake-up to realistically on the morning of July 1st.

Sturm-Savard-Hossa
Lucic-Bergeron-Kobasew
Axelsson-Krejci-Kessel
Schaeffer-Sobotka-Thornton
Depth: Nokelainen, Reich,

Chara-Wideman
Liles-Ward
Stuart-Alberts
Depth: Hnidy, Ference

Thomas
Fernandez
Depth: Rask (but in the AHL)

Development Camp Roster

I know this is a bit tardy but, I wanted to get a post up to get you through this rough Saturday before what will hopefully be a thrilling July 1st free agent signing day. This is the group of guys that will be at the Bruins practice facility in Wilmington, MA for the second annual Developmental Camp July 8-12.

Zach Hamill------------Joe Colborne
Maxime Sauve --------Michael Hutchinson
Jamie Arniel-----------Nick Tremblay
Mark Goggin-----------Jeff LoVecchio
Jeff Penner------------Matt Marquardt
Andrew Bodnarchuk----Adam Courchaine
Tommy Cross-----------Alain Goulet
Jordan Knackstedt------Brad Marchand
Mikko Lehtonen--------Adam McQuaid
Levi Nelson-------------Kevin Regan
Dennis Reul

To make this slightly interactive, who are the three guys that you are most excited about on this list? You can put your answers in the comment box.

Deep Thought, By: Jack Handy

I have deep thought before I run out the door to the DMB concert at the Tweeter. Last year, Al "Big Al" Jefferson was one of the hottest young commodities that the Celtics possessed. When the Celtics traded Big Al to Minnesota for KG people were up in arms about trading away such a promising prospect. The Celtics won the World Championship because of that trade, even though Jefferson had outstanding numbers on such a poorly framed team.

So, I would have to say that Phil Kessel is last year's Al Jefferson on this off-season Bruins crew. The reason I bring this up is because I have seen Kessel's name rumored in trades to help dump salary for a nice free agent splash. If winning a Stanley Cup (or making a very strong push) means moving Kessel and him still becoming a great player elsewhere, would you do it?

You all better say yes.

I am wearing a black t-shirt and a backward Portland Sea Dogs hat if you are there.

See ya!

B's & Avs Swap AHLers

The Boston Bruins sent defenseman Matt Hendricks to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for defenseman Johnny Boychuck. Both spent the majority of the 2007-2008 season in the American Hockey League. Boychuck had a line of 8-18-26 in 60 games with Lake Erie and lead all Lake Erie defenseman with 17 power play points.

McKeon's Take: Haven't seen much of this guy but, it looks like the scouts saw something in Boychuk that they like so I am going to trust them. It sounds like a future move to me (Oh, no kidding McKeon!)

Bruins Extend Stuart

The Boston Bruins announced today that they have signed defenseman Mark Stuart's to a multi-year contract extension. Per club policy the terms were not disclosed.

McKeon's take: Good move by Peter Chiarelli. I've always liked what Stuart brings to the table and he is still developing into what will be a very solid blue-liner.

The Deadline Is Upon Us

With the July 1st deadline looming, the mere fact that "the answer" could be coming to the Bruins line-up quite soon is making me itch...or is that the rash I have. I'm not talking about Allen Iverson, though it can be neither confirmed nor denied that Iverson was actually playing for the Bruins prior to last season's promising black and gold waltz. What I am basically trying to convey is that the Bruins sucked prior to last year and those of us who have been on the regular diehard wagon have been waiting for the answer. It started with Chiarelli. It very soon became Chara, then Savard, then Kessel, then Julien, then Lucic to add to Thomas and Bergeron. However, last season, this team was one or two pieces shy of a legitimate contender.

Here's the chance to find, "The Answer." A chance to open the eyes of the league, a chance to make a statement to say that this legendary franchise is back. Ideally, this team could use Marian Hossa and a defenseman like John-Michael Liles, Ron Hainsey, or Brooks Orpik. The biggest reason why not getting Hossa would hurt more than usual would be that he could potentially go to Montreal. It would be great to add a player like Hossa AND keep him away from Montreal, all in one motion. Only time will tell.

There's a buzz around the boards and in the sound of the voices who actually talk Bruins when they are not playing a rival in the playoffs. The diehards are excited, and maybe, on July 2nd the Northeast division and the rest of the league will do a double take like you do when you see that little bikini on that hottie you have been crushing on for a long time, big jugs and all. Kind of like in Caddyshack when Judge Smails's niece, Lacey Underall, walks by everyone at the pool and everyone stops. Am I dreaming? Probably. However, it would be outstanding to get some scoring in front of Thomas/Fernandez and keep their nightly shots-against in the mid-twenties.

July 1st is Christmas....or Hanukkah...or Kwanzaa or what have you. We are either getting socks, or the most fabulous gift you could possibly imagine...tools to achieve Stanley Cup immortality!

Over the top? Maybe. I'll let you decide.

Off Topic

Last night, this world lost a great man. A man who shaped my humor as a young child, George Carlin. The comedian passed away in a Los Angeles hospital at the age of 71 due to a heart failure. Carlin was the pioneer of the 7 dirty words you can't say on television, and bits on religion, politics, and common human error. Even though this is a sad day, Carlin would not want the world to be sad for him. In fact, he would probably ask for a joke or at the very least, just be happy that he lead a life that made people laugh. I won't go as far as making a joke about the guy but, he did make me laugh and he definitely opened my eyes to a funny world when I was in middle school.

On top of a great stand-up career he also lead a pretty solid movie/television career. He was the conductor of my younger brother's favorite childhood show, Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends, as the mini-conductor at Shining Time station. He was Rufus, the righteous and rockin' character from the Bill and Ted movies that also starred Keanu Reeves and...other guy. Carlin also had his own show, the George Carlin Show, though I don't remember much about this one as it aired when I was in 4th grade. Other notable Carlin appearances were Dogma, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Scary Movie 3, Jersey Girl, Tarzan II, and Cars.

RIP George...you will always be remembered as someone who truly saw the world from a different angle and enlightened all of us with those visions and thoughts. I will leave you with this quote, I may not agree with it but, it still is funny and it shows how his mind worked.

To my way of thinking there are really only three sports: baseball, basketball, and football. Everything else is either a game or an activity. Hockey comes to mind. People think hockey is a sport. It's not. Hockey is three activities taking place at the same time: ice skating, fooling around with a puck, and beating the shit out of somebody. If these guys had more brains then teeth, they'd do these things one at a time. First go ice-skating, then fool around with a puck, then you go to the bar and beat the shit out of somebody. The day would last longer, and these guys would have a lot more fun. Another reason why hockey isn't a sport is that it's not played with a ball. Anything not played with a ball can't be a sport. These are my rules, I make 'em up.

RIP George Carlin: May 12, 1937 - June 22, 2008

2008 Bruins Draft Picks

Round 1 (16th overall): C Joe Colborne

Round 2 (47th overall): C Maxime Sauve

Round 3 (77th overall): G Michael Hutchinson

Round 4 (97th overall from Columbus): C Jamie Arniel

Round 6 (173rd overall from Colorado): F Nicholas Tremblay

Round 7 (197th overall): C Mark Goggin


Not sure about this influx of centers but, these are all picks for much later and not for immediate impact. So, I suppose it is much smarter to take the best available guy rather than for current need when you are talking about kids who won't see the pros for 3-4 years.

2008 NHL Entry Draft: Day 1

It already seems as if today's draft has triggered many trade talks among NHL general managers. There have been a few minor moves and many more major rumors being spun around the rumor websites. I will post any trade/draft results here that involve the Bruins and/or any other major happenings around the league that may or may not involve the spoked 'B'. I will most likely leave out minor deals because frankly, I don't have the time nor do I care that Phoenix traded their 47th round pick to Columbus for a 45th round pick in the 2035 draft.

-1:15- Ottawa has waived hot head/under achiever G Ray Emery.
- G Dan Ellis was signed by Nashville and they traded G Chris Mason to St. Louis.

-3:30- 2008 Calder Cup winning coach John Anderson, who lead the Chicago Wolves to the aforementioned achievement, will be the new head coach in Atlanta.

-7:17- Olli Jokinen was traded to Phoenix?....Old friend Nick Boynton, Keith Ballard, and the 49th pick

-7:20- The 1st selection of the 2008 NHL Entry draft is, as expected, Steven Stamkos.

-7:24- I'm a bit late but, the Kings shipped off Mike Cammalleri to Calgary while Calgary sent Alex Tanguay and a pair of picks to Montreal. The Kings received Calgary's 17th pick and sent the 28th pick to the Ducks for the 12th overall pick. Wow, the Kings have a lot of picks.

-7:27- With the 2nd selection, the Kings selected Defenseman Drew Doughty. Side note: Dean Lombardi played youth hockey in a town that neighbors mine, Ludlow, Massachusetts. Lombardi has also bought and drank beers with me, my boss, and one other intern while I was interning with the Manchester Monarchs, the Kings primary AHL affiliate. Ron Hextall was with him, and we talked goalies and hockey for nearly two hours. An amazing night for sure. I will not be posting any more picks unless they are for the Bruins and aside from that, only trades will be posted.

7:50- As St. Louis president John Davidson speaks prior to the 3rd overall pick I realized how much I truly miss his voice announcing hockey. Great pipes on that guy.

7:59- The Islanders have sent the 5th pick to Toronto for the 7th pick along with a bunch of other shenanigans (picks) in later rounds. Yikes, that was confusing.

-8:08- RJ Umberger, an Ohio native, was sent to Columbus for picks while still maintaining their 6th overall pick...that's a steal for the Blue Jackets.

-8:19- The Islanders trade the 7th to Nashville for more picks...man there's a ton of trades already.

-8:22- WHO is the babe that is in Colin Wilson's party?! Holy smokes, she looks like a supermodel!

-9:18- BOSTON UP NEXT WITH THE 16th PICK

-9:21- THE BRUINS SELECT C JOE COLBORNE. He heads to the University of Denver and will be a few years away from pro hockey. I'm a bit surprised they didn't go with a blue liner but, hey, maybe they don't need a guy for right now because they want to attack the FA market and make some trades.

"The City I Live In, The City Of Champions..."

Ok, so, the title is a little lame but, if you like the Red Hot Chili Peppers you can see where I got the idea from.

The Boston Celtics are World Champions. The Boston Red Sox are World Champions. The New England Patriots are a freak helmet catch short of an undefeated Super Bowl season. The New England Revolution are the Buffalo Bills of M.L.S. Could the Bruins have a better bargaining tool right under their nose at the moment? Could the San Jose Sharks convince a top athlete to play for them with the line, "this city is full of champions"? No. In fact, no city can utilize that line with truth aside from Boston, the only city of champions. All that is left is for the Bruins to make Boston the most magnificent city of champions to ever wear such a name. Blake Wheeler is sign number one of this. He had the majority of the league to sign with, and he chose Boston. A team that finished in 8th place in the Eastern Conference, and a team that was bounced from the playoffs by the Montreal Canadiens who also trounced the B's the past two seasons. Wheeler chose Boston because he has recognized where this organization is going and what it has done with it's young athletes in the Chiarelli era. This could be true omen of what is about to come for the Bruins.

With all this said, tomorrow is the first day of the 2008 draft and the Bruins have the 16th selection. The draft will set the groundwork for what will be to come in the off-season by way of trades or signings on July 1st and beyond. Tomorrow and Saturday should be an interesting and exciting pair of days around the league.

My guess for what the Bruins will do with the 16th pick: John Carlson

**Note: the picture is from my trip to Hawaii as promised. Be sure to get out there if you can.

I'm Back!

Aloha! And Mahalo for your patience in my absence! I just got back to the mainland from Hawaii and goodness gracious, was it ever amazing. I highly recommend it to anyone if you can pull it off. I am not quite home yet but, at least I can finally get on to a computer that doesn't cost 20 cents per minute. I found that to be a horrible concept so, I refused to use it. I will be back to my computer ready for an update some time Thursday.

Mahalo!

Aloha

This post will remain up as the most recent post for just over a week because today (Sat. June 7) I will be attending a friend's wedding and from Sunday June 8 through Monday June 16 I will be in Hawaii. I hope all 19 of you can survive a week without me. I will be sure to post a picture of me burnt like a lobster upon my return.

Go B's!

What We Learned...

The Detroit Red Wings won the Stanley Cup this year as a juggernaut through all aspects of the game. They also achieved Stanley Cup immortality through depth by battling through injuries such as Zetterberg, Holmstrom, etc. That being said, we learned that there are four things that a team needs to bring the cup to their town.

1. Multiple Scoring threats

2. Depth

3. A defense first system

4. A slightly above average goaltender who can benefit from #3.

Let's go over these from a Bruins prospective.
1. Multiple Scoring Threats. This is one thing that the Bruins did not have this year. What they did have, however, was a plethora of second and third line contributors. It has been made known by the Bruins that Chiarelli is pushing for more scoring threats and a puck moving defenseman to add to the threat. Bruins fans need to trust in Chiarelli as Red Sox fans now do with Theo Epstein because I am very comfortable with him, Seabass...er Cam Neely, and Donny Sweeney at the helm. The right balance of scoring threats will arrive this off-season.

2. Depth. The Bruins definitely have depth and we saw it this past year. When guys were injured, youngsters from Providence stepped up. The Bruins had guys like Krejci, Sobotka, Nokelainen, etc. bring their A game when they were called upon. The best part of this is that the Bruins have trade material as well as fill-in guys who gained valuable playoff experience this year. Also, the team in Providence had a strong season who made the AHL playoffs. They were upset by Portland but, they still saw a little bit of the playoffs. All set in this department.

3. A Defense First System. This is the only reason why the Bruins did what they did this year. The players bought into Claude Julien's system and used it effectively in almost every game. I love where this team is going from this perspective. Check.

4. A Slightly Above Average Goaltender Who Benefits From #3. The Red Wings are a grade A example of this. Dominik Hasek had a successful regular season? How does a 73 year old man do that in the NHL? Oh, I know! He only saw 22 shots per game and maybe only 10 quality chances on the average. Hell, I could practically thrive under those circumstances. I will not take this away from Chris Osgood because I still think he is a very serviceable #1 goaltender and should have played full-time last season because it is my belief that Hasek has been done for years. I have no idea what Detroit's infatuation is with Hasek. My point is, these two goalies, who split time, were at the top of the league in many categories (Osgood and Hasek season stats) because of the system they played with. The Bruins have this in Tim Thomas. When Thomas doesn't have to see 40 shots every night, he will be much better. Between him and Manny Fernadez, the defense-first system, and a big enough scoring cushion this team could do serious damage. I'm comfortable with this aspect.

4b. This could almost go under depth but, I think goaltending depth is a whole different bag of doughnuts. Chris Osgood was able to do the job in the playoffs because he split time with Hasek all year so, he wasn't burnt out (and he barely played in round 1). If Thomas and Manny could do that, think of the possibilities. This team would be able to go DEEP in the playoffs because strong, healthy, and rested goaltending wins championships...or freaks like Brodeur but, you deal with the cards you are dealt.

Chiarelli knows what this team needs and he knows it will only take a few moves to get the team over the hump. Bring in a couple scoring threats (even one to start the season would be fine) and add a puck moving defenseman and this team is in business. This off-season will certainly be exciting and next season will make this team relevant in the league and Boston once again.

Ladies And Gentlemen...

Your Stanley Cup Champions

The Detroit Red Wings are the 2008 Stanley Cup Champions. Yes, I picked them in 6 and no, I did not pick the MVP correctly as it is Henrik Zetterberg and not Chris Osgood. Lift the cup boys, and enjoy the glory.

Game 6 Prediction: Stanley Cup Watch Deuce

In the closing seconds of the 3rd period in game 5, the Red Wings held a 3-2 lead, the exact score I had predicted. I snagged a bottle of the finest champagne and I was ready to celebrate the fact that I had correctly predicted the score and the winner...then Maxime Talbot showed up and rained on my parade. Not that I didn't enjoy the triple overtime thriller because that was stellar hockey. However, with the downside of not picking game 5 correctly, comes the upside of me predicting the Red Wings to win in 6 (bold, I know). So, tonight, you will see Lord Stanley and all of his glory. Sorry Pittsburgh but, no matter how many phantom calls the zebras spring on Detroit again, it's over baby.

Red Wings 3 - Pittsburgh 1

MVP: Chris Osgood

Game 5 Prediction: Stanley Cup Watch

Tonight. Tonight is every hockey fans dream that only comes once every year. The night that the Stanley Cup is presented to it's deserving champion.

"But McKeon?! It's only game 5. There's no guarantee we shall see the dudes with the white gloves and Lord Stanley himself."

On the contrary, the coveted cup WILL be presented and it will be presented in front of a home crowd compromised of octopi whipping, car manufacturing, and bad driving lunatics drunk off of exhilaration and pure jubilation (and obviously a bit of alcohol despite the Monday night face-off) that comes with the joy that their team has hoisted up the most beautiful piece of metal on God's green earth.

I have never experienced a Bruins Stanley Cup victory. However, ever since I was roughly nine or ten years of age I have been watching the Stanley Cup presentation. The best was, of course 1994. The look on Mark Messier's face was pricless and that wasn't even his first but, it sure looked like it. The best actor in the world couldn't have shown half of the emotion that Messier did. At first, it was my goal to lift the cup but, that became bleak some time during my early high school years and completely left reality in college. However, I still watch intently and I still get the chills. I can not imagine what it would be like if the Bruins won, I really do not know. What I do know though, is that I would trade away the Patriot reign and the 2007 Red Sox World Series (definitely not 2004 though) for a Stanley Cup victory in Boston... ::sigh::

Game 5 Prediction: Wings 3 - Penguins 2

MVP: Chris Osgood

Game 4 Prediction

The Wings WILL NOT lose twice in a row. There is no way that Nik Lidstrom will let such a thing happen. The Wings will beat the Tuxedos tonight 4-1.

Remember, I am terrible at making bets. So, you all know what to do by going against me. Enjoy this picture of one of the coolest, yet dorkiest, uncles in sitcom history.

Off Topic

Alright, here's the deal. Since it is at the end of the hockey season and summer is just around the corner, we all need something to keep ourselves going through the heat and humidity. Well, here it is...Off Topic. Something completely off topic and something that may not necessarily contain anything pertaining to an ice rink of any kind. So, without further adieu, I give you the first Off Topic...topic.

Ok, I may gauge my eyes and make rice pudding with them (I'll memorize the directions before I take away my vision, don't worry I've thought this through) if I see one more commercial for the Sex and the City movie. Wait, is it Sex in the City? Or Sex AND the city? Oh, who the hell cares? The show sucks, the movie will suck more, and know one cares about 4 old chicks who want dudes my age, fresh out of college. It's unrealistic and no self-respecting male my age would sleep with any of those AARP card holders ever....except maybe the brunette chick but, that is neither here nor there. This is not a MILF situation, at least I don't think it is, because I don't think any of them have kids. Besides, most MILFs are chicks who had babies around 18 years old. This is like Desperate Housewives, and that show sucks too.

By the way, Family Guy got it right when they said Sarah Jessica Parker looks like a foot. I mean, look at that picture. This movie is going to suck harder than the show sucked. Don't waste your money, don't let your girlfriend drag you there, and DO NOT try to impress any girl on a first date by taking her to this slop.

You've been warned. 10 on the Suck-O-Meter.

Canucks Prospect Killed In Motorcycle Accident

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Luc Bourdon died in a car accident on Thursday when his motorcycle struck a tractor trailer truck. He was 21. Send your best to his friends and family...this just shouldn't be...

Minor Trade

The Boston Bruins cut a deal with the Colombus Blue Jackets today receiving Rick Nash and sending defenseman Jonathan Sigalet to Ohio. Ok, I'm kidding about Nash but, a guy can dream can't he? The Bruins have acquired forward Matt Marquardt. I know absolutely nothing about the kid besides him being 6'2", 220 lbs and that he plays in the Q.

If You Like Money

Take the Wings and the over (5.5). It's a sure thing.


I collect 15 percent of your winnings so be honest about your gambling victory (not that I am condoning that sort of thing) or I will send Walter Sobchak after you.


For you Celtics fans, take the Celtics (+6.5) and the under (176).


DO NOT GAMBLE YOUR RENT AWAY! But, if you listen to me, you will gain a year's rent...

Remember, I don't condone this sort of activity...

Enjoy the games!

McKeon's Stanley Cup Pick

Tonight is the beginning of what should be a very solid match-up in the Stanley Cup finals between the Detroit Red Wings and the Pittsburgh Penguins. In the west corner, weighing in at 212 pounds, wearing the red trunks, they are the definition of veteran domination, the now reigning western conference champions, the Deeeeetroitttttttt Red Wingggggsssss. In the east corner, weighing in at 205 pounds, sporting the black trunks, they are the youth movement juggernaut, the now reigning eastern conference champions, the Pittsburrrrggggghhhh Penguinnnnnssssss. Sorry, I was in a Michael Buffer mood. Anyhow, it is difficult to pick against the talent and veteran presence of the Wings. I also find it very difficult to pick a team with Hal Gill as a one of the top four defensemen. I'm sure he is a nice guy but, he is still the worst defensemen in the NHL. To his credit, he has looked pretty decent after being traded to Pittsburgh (for sucking in Toronto!) but, the Wings will abuse him, the rest of his defending corps, and Marc-Andre Fleury like they did with Turco and the defensive-minded Dallas Stars.

Wings in 6


**Picture courtesy of NHL.com

Gaborik Rumor

Before I begin the girth of this post I want to explain something before some jump out of their seat. When I go to view Hockeybuzz with Eklund and his other cronies I go there for entertainment purposes as well as informative reasons with a ratio of 60/40% respectively. A rumor is just that, a rumor. I don't view any of these as full truth nor do I see any of these as falicies. I am a believer that Eklund doesn't just make this stuff up. However, I do believe that he takes information and runs with it on what he does see could work. He is usually wrong but, we all would be as well. If he hears that the Kings, Oilers, and Rangers are in talk with say, Wayne Gretzky (for example) and Eklund reports this. Say at the 11th hour, the Panthers sweep in and sign the Great One for more years and more money. Most would jump out and criticize Eklund and his "e" system even though none of it was his fault. I feel like this happens often. Either some crazy happens last minute, his sources are just trying to make a name for themselves, or teams and their employees are sworn to secrecy on trade/free agent talks.

That being said. Today, Eklund has a rumor that intrigued me in a way that made me think that this team could upgrade significantly if it just so happened to go through. The wording was...

Although some sources are saying pretty much the same thing regarding Gaborik's desire to remain a "Wild" (?) reports are that some very serious trade offers may make things complicated including a mega offer from a "team in the Northeast" that I believe to be either Buffalo or Boston. There is one scenario where Boston would attempt to unite Hossa and Gaborik in Boston.

Now, I think a trade would have to include Phil Kessel whom I would be torn on parting with. However, could this be a Celtics situation from last season while ironically talking with Minnesota? KG said no thanks to a trade to Boston (granted he had say in where he went so it is similar to free agency...ie Hossa). Ray Allen comes into the picture and KG suddenly thinks he can win here with himself, Ray Ray, and The Truth. Despite this intriguing picture, many of Celtic diehards did not want to part with budding star, Al Jefferson. Taking nothing away from Big Al's talents I need to ask, who misses him now? No one. In fact, he was missed so little, there was barely any talk about him from callers on WEEI despite his outstanding numbers.

So, this would be a similar scenario. The Bruins world is in love with the talent and the potential of Phil Kessel, including myself. With Gaborik in town after a trade with Kessel (among others) this could make Hossa turn his head a bit and think about the possibilities in a market like this. Can you imagine a top line of Sturm-Savard-Hossa and a second line of Kobasew-Bergeron-Gaborik (i know, thats two RWs). That is a pair of pontent lines. Then you add on some of the kids on the 3rd and 4th lines to continue to learn and can still offer a scoring threat taking more pressure off of the youngsters and the top dogs. I know it is not likely but, it certainly is a minute possibility.

Intriguing indeed...

Ward Re-signs

Aaron Ward and Boston Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli have agreed to a multi-year deal. Ward, apparently, was seeking two years. There is no word on the monetary value of the contract.

***Update*** 8:40 pm

As I was about to get in my car for a two hour trip home I randomly went to the Bruins website and noticed it so, I figured I would get this up just to get it out there. Now, here's my take.

McKeon's Take- I really like this move by Chiarelli. I believe that Ward is one of those guys you need in the locker room, like Sean Casey in the Red Sox clubhouse. Whenever I hear an interview with Mr. Root beer (A&W, Aaron Ward, get it? Sorry about that) he seemed like a down to earth guy who understands all aspects of hockey and someone who just loves the game. The guy has balls of steel and is a total gamer. The reason he is so "injury prone" is because of the aforementioned attribute. That's Bruins hockey, balls to the wall, petal to the metal, etc. and I will take that on my team any day of the week and I think coach Julien realizes this. I am glad he will be back but, I will determine the overall success of the deal by the cap hit. I am sure it will not be much but, PC does have to make some moves to be able to bring in some fresh blood to score some goals.

***Update*** 9:59 pm

Aaron Ward was given a 2 year deal while 2.5 million will be added to the 2008-2009 cap number. After giving Ward that much money, I would expect a salary shredding move to be made by either trade or buyout...However, a Boston/Hossa relationship just slipped further out of sight...

Off-Season Sidebar

This afternoon I updated the sidebar with a list of player salaries, RFA's/UFA's, and a list of potential signee's in Boston. If you see any mistakes, let me know.

Kobasew Re-signs In The Bean

Chuck Kobasew and the Boston Bruins have agreed on a 3 year, $7 million contract. Kobes' season ended on March 25th at the hand of a Zdeno Chara blast from the blue line. Kobasew, who turned 26 last month, was originally acquired from Calgary with Andrew Ference for Brad Stuart, Wayne Primeau, and a conditional draft pick. Kobasew and General Manager Peter Chiarelli are expected to comment on the contract tomorrow afternoon. The remaining significant RFAs include Dennis Wideman, Mark Stuart, and Petteri Nokelainen.

McKeon's Take: This is a brilliant move by Peter Chiarelli. I feel like Kobes will be better suited as a second liner and not a go to guy. If Chiarelli can bring in a top scorer then Kobes, Sturm can breathe a sigh of relief that they will be able to perform without tons of pressure as the only wings who are labeled goal-scorers. Also, the price of this contract should be noted. Chiarelli didn't over pay but he was still able to show Kobes that he holds a meaningful spot in this line-up.

Euro Goalie Scores A Goal...

From what I can deduct in this video...it looks like the white team is ahead and the dark team has pulled the goalie for an extra attacker. The dark team has a delayed penalty so instead of the goalie going to the bench he joins the play for a 2-on-1. The goal is disallowed and the dark team is awarded a penalty shot because the goalie is not allowed to cross the red line. I think that would make sense but, I don't know...

Still awesome though!

Thomas Injured...

But how bad? The severity of the supposed knee injury is yet to be confirmed by Peter Chiarelli. I'm sure more will be said from the Bruins in the next couple days. Thomas seemed to hurt his knee in a contest against Canada which the United States lost 5-4 on a last minute goal by Dany Heatley.

Stars Shine In The Fourth Overtime

Last night (Sunday), I was able to stay awake for a marvelous Stars/Sharks game. You all know by now that the Stars finished off the game at 9:03 of the 4th overtime on a retribution goal by Brendan Morrow to win 2-1. I suppose it was fate for him to score after having a goal taken back for "kicking" the puck in the net a few nights earlier. It makes you wonder what the hell goes on in Toronto when arenas call in a questionable play. Remember that game (i forget which) against the Bruins when a player on the opposition clearly made a kicking motion but, the big wigs in Toronto still called it a goal? I know I do (clearly, because I can vividly recall all the details...). Anyhow, I feel like the committee is a bunch of high class, stuck up, rich, pompous slack jobs who flip a coin whenever a "kicking motion" is being questioned. All of this is obviously done while drinking of course, probably fancy martinis or something along those line. I digress.

Either way, last night proved just how exciting hockey can be without a result of 8-7 on the scoreboard. The game was back and forth with goaltenders standing on their heads and breath-grabbing chances at each end of the ice. I was completely exhausted by the start of the game and was honestly ready to fall asleep at the first intermission. I couldn't. The game was like a ping pong match that incorporated well-rounded, intense, and passionate hockey. Both teams wanted the game desperately and it showed. The game was an all out old fashioned trench fight. This just proves that playoff hockey is better than any other sport's extra session, hands down, and no questions asked.

My boy Marty Turco lived up to his high expectations and the team I chose after the Bruins were bounced remains in tact. I have to admit, the Brad Richards pick-up by Dallas was easily the best move at the trading deadline (with Hossa a close second considering his performance on Sunday). However, Richards was absolutely flying last night. If it weren't for one of the most marvelous glove saves in the history of televised hockey by Evgeni Nabokov, Richards would have been the hero in the first overtime.

For those that missed last night's game, I feel sorry for you. It was completely worth being exhausted today. Nabokov deserves all the credit in the world as the final goal was not nearly his fault because it was on a powerplay and no one could cover Morrow in front of the net. Kudos to both teams for an outstanding performance.

I would love to see another one of these before the playoffs come to a close.

Kessel Tips His Hat To Slovenia

Phil Kessel netted a hat trick while Tim Thomas delivered another winning performance in a 5-1 victory over Slovenia at the IIHF World Championships. Kessel had three goals while Patrick Kane and David Booth provided the other two goals. Thomas collected 11 saves on 12 shots only giving up a goal to LA King Anze Kopitar. The United States and Canada face-off against each other on Tuesday night.

Thomas Earns Goose Egg In Win Over Latvia

Tim Thomas collected 24 saves for the United States in a 4-0 win over Latvia at the IIHF World Hockey Championships. Patrick Kane had a goal and two assists while Dustin Brown, Zach Parise, and Patrick O'Sullivan had the other three goals. The United States plays again Sunday night against Slovenia who lost to Canada 5-1.

Definition Of Oxymoron............

Remember Hal Gill? Yes, of course you do. Well, today, I stumbled across this little number on our favorite website, thespokedb.blogspot.com...I mean NHL.com. This has to be some kind of joke. The headline before you access the article is, Gill a GODSEND for Pens. To quote last night's excellent episode of The Office, "Did I Stutter?!" No, there was no speech impediment involved there. Shouldn't that Godsend term be reserved for Sidney Crosby or the diving/slewfooting Evgeni Malkin? I suppose the next story on NHL.com will have a headline saying, Domink Hasek Is Still Good.

Goaltending Equipment Change?

Alright, I need to blow off some steam here. I am shocked and appalled that anyone would consider making any type of adjustment to goalie equipment. Unless guys are getting hurt, which I do not think they are, there is no need for change. I understand that the NHL is trying to make this game more appealing to the fans outside/on the fence but, this is not the way to do it. As a goalie, I am already shocked that they shrank the goalie equipment when they continue to make sticks that are so light and have so much torque that goal scoring has become almost effortless for marginal players. Let me give you two simple suggestions that the league should not do.

1. Shrink the equipment...again. Doing this makes an already difficult position even harder against the best hockey players in the world. I never want to see a scenario where a great GAA is 4.00. You can enhance a forward's equipment (stick) but, decimate the goaltending equipment? Hockey is not meant to have 7-6 goal games. MORE SCORING WILL NOT BRING IN A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF NEW FANS!

2. Make the net bigger. Since the lockout there were always little rumors about making the net bigger. Awful idea. The net needs to stay consistent from the instructional level all the way to the professional ranks. This is one facet of the game that should never, EVER, change.

If the league would like to change and become more fan friendly then they need to do one thing, and one thing only. Get back on ESPN's good graces. I know this won't happen because Versus has spent a lot of money to change it's appearance for hockey and I could be wrong but, I believe they have a contract for a while. They should try to at least get ESPN to do a Wednesday night game of the week or something along those lines. Start with one night and go from there. With athletes like Crosby and Ovechkin in the league, outsiders might be interested and ESPN could help bring hockey back. Outsiders would not tune into Versus for a game. Some don't even have it, and others, like myself, do not have it in High Definition. The NHL needs to make sure that whatever channel they broadcast on that 99 percent of households have access to that channel in HD because High-Def. makes hockey on television outstanding.

I truly hope nothing much comes from these meetings but, the league needs to remember that 7-6 games are for baseball and crappy football games. Great hockey is not about scoring goals. Ask someone from England if they would rather watch a 1-0 soccer game or a 6-5 soccer game. Everyone over there would elect to view a 1-0 battle. With that being said, I will leave you with this question...How are the ratings for European soccer?

Temporary Declaration

Before the start of the second round a friend asked me who I was rooting for now that I no longer had a dog in the fight. I started thinking about teams in the East but, quickly decided that it would go against some moral code to pull for another team in the East considering that three teams would easily be considered rivals of the Bruins (Philly, NYR, and the [gulp] Habs). The other team has the biggest pink hat following because of Sidney Crosby. So, I turn toward the West and instantly remember how much I absolutely love Marty Turco.

So, here it is. My official declaration of fan-dom to the Dallas Stars for the remainder of their post-season. I know it sounds cheap that I am making this "bold" statement now that they are ahead of the Sharks 2-0, however, I have been pulling for them in West since the beginning of the playoffs (will provide references upon request). It was never made official electronically so, I figure since there hasn't been a new post in a few days that I owed it to all of you.

Here is my main reason for my quick trip on the Stars bandwagon:

I can produce valid evidence that I have a man crush on Marty Turco's goaltending style. I don't know what it is but, I often find myself wishing I could play like that. He has tremendous flexibility, ridiculous mobility, terrific positioning, and the outstanding knack for being able to play the puck. Now enough of me bragging in the third person, onto Marty Turco...kidding. I just love the way the Stars have been playing throughout the post-season.

It also doesn't hurt that class act, Mike Modano, is from Livonia, Michigan where the majority of my mother's side of the family resides. Great city by the way. If you ever get the chance to visit that area, do it.

So, there you have it, the Dallas Stars have my support for the 2008 Stanley Cup playoffs.

Go Stars (for the time being)!......and obviously Go B's!

Chara A Norris Finalist

Zdeno Chara has been named one of three finalists for the James Norris Memorial Trophy. Also being named are Nicklas Lidstrom of the Detroit Red Wings and Dion Phaneuf of the Calgary Flames. The winner will be announced on Thursday June 12.

Big Gulps Huh?

Welp, cya later...It's been an excellent season boys, one that surpassed all expectations. Stay tuned here for the entire summer. I won't be writing every day but, if something does happen you can check out my take here. Also, if something unrelated to hockey comes up that is worth reading, I may write about it for your summer pleasure. Be sure to tell all of your Bruin friends about this blog so it can get more exposure and more opinions. I'd love to see more good-natured controversy in the comment box so, the more the merrier.

Be good everyone!

-McKeon