Being a team captain in the NHL carries a number of duties.  Officially, captains (or alternate captains) are the only on ice players allowed to communicate with referees regarding interpretation of the rules.  This usually happens on plays when there is confusion, such as whether or not a puck crossed the goal line or if the puck goes out of play.  This is done mainly to ensure the refs are not... 

If the first month of the 2009-10 NHL season has taught hockey fans anything, it’s to forget expectations. The standings have seemingly flip-flopped from last year, as several teams that were considered DOA have instead been stubborn SOBs. And while there is an eastern European atop the scoring leader chart, it’s not the one everyone would expect. Among the early surprises thus far: •... 

“Hats Off!!!!” to the Tampa Bay Lightning and Ryan Malone’s beautiful 3 goal outing against the Carolina Hurricanes, recording the ‘Bolts first win of the season.  The Lightning victory snaps a 8 game losing streak against the ‘Canes that’s been in tact since March of 2008.  With worries that back up goalie Antero Niittymaki, the 168Th pick in the 1998 draft,... 

After the two best games that the Lightning have played this young season turning into losses, don’t expect the team to lay down and roll over.  Martin St. Louis is firing on all pistons and Steven Stamkos has started to drive the net.  The offense is in position to bust loose. They need help from the slick center Vinnie Lecavalier, highly touted free agent, Alex Tanguay, and Ryan Malone, who... 

Carolina is developing a dynasty.  They’ve signed their two most critical elements to long term contracts and are focusing on bringing in young talent that can be developed.  They are keeping their roster smaller, concentrating the investment into who they believe to be keepers.  There are many motives for the tighter roster, but to be sure, it will develop a deeper team bond.  Read More →

Are you serious?  After listening to representatives of the NHL on opening night, proclaiming how much that they wanted to attempt to draw new fans to the sport.  What do they do?  They blackout the Tampa Bay/Carolina game.  That’s right, no game on Fox-FL, NHL Center Ice, or Versus.  As a matter of fact, it was the only game blacked-out.  Thanks a lot NHL.  Read More →