Even as I write, the puck was dropped around 15 minutes ago. I’m late due to digressions which were essential and worthwhile. However, I stand by my prediction despite Commissioner Bettman trying to rig the results in favor of Sh**sburgh. I guess he thinks the future of the game depends on an immature brat who has not earned the right to wear the C on his jersey.
The official excuse (to change the schedule and have the first two games back-to-back) was to accommodate NBC. Probably, yet it’s too perfect of an explanation. I don’t completely share the opinion of my friend/co-worker Brian about an organized effort against Detroit but the dots are connecting too well not to disagree. Being a Philly fan, I’m more with the conspiracy theory of Bettman being biased toward the Pens after screwing the people of PA into buying those losers a new rink.
As commissioner he needs to focus on getting all the Cup games on a real network. Screw NBC if they will only air it on weekends. The dying giant needs cheap, original content during the week and sports are the ultimate reality show. Seeing Cindy Crosby scrunch up his face on the way to box for imitating Jacques Cousteau is funnier than Jay Leno’s blathering. Games three and four will be on Versus. When I had satellite, I did give the new channel an A for effort with hockey yet ESPN is included in most basic cable packages. They took Melrose back when Tampa fired him, Bettman should get on the phone and work out something. The poker for dummies fad has run its course, ESPN is probably back to airing spelling bees, putt-putt golf tournaments and other future material you’ll see in upcoming episodes of Cheap Seats: The Next Generation.
To the point now after ranting on the NHL having horrible, tainted leadership (as if this is new).
The smart money continues to be the Red Wings. Given the injuries. Given the lack of rest. Given the blatant prejudice to just give the Pens a trophy. I concede the advantage to them and they will overcome Bettman practically making their net 20-feet wide. They continue to have more depth, consistency, experience (Chelios is 47 years old! Now there’s the second coming of Gordie Howe.) and as Philly’s cousin in the West, they didn’t throw away a few consecutive seasons to get draft picks and a new rink. More importantly, they didn’t collapse like a cheap pup tent in the Finals; the disappointing fate of this year’s Sharks AND Bruins. Normally I would’ve predicted the Wings in five yet Bettman/NBC’s meddling will only put off the inevitable. A fifth championship in 12 years.
On a side note, Vegas did get it on the money last Fall. Brian may win 80 smackers on his 20 dollar bet because Treasure Island gave them the worst (paying) odds, 4-to-1 against. The Pens were next, I can’t remember what though and who really cares. I knew my ten on Philly wasn’t coming back dressed as 150 by March.