One this day, 30 years ago, life imitated art when the Boston Bruins took on the crowd at Madison Square Garden just like one of the funniest scenes from Slapshot, the greatest hockey movie ever made. Only a mere two years after the film’s release.
Thankfully, Austin fans’ haven’t been as uncivil toward the visiting teams. They shout stupid things during the National Anthem but at least they don’t throw crap on to the rink or pick scraps with players in the penalty box. We’re still in first place with 44 points! Not bad for an inaugural season. Of course it doesn’t mean squat unless they raise the Calder Cup in Central Texas. The Stars have the week off for Christmas which is a bit of a relief. Divisional rivals have been closing the gap to seven because our team has become a tad inconsistent on the ice. Losing it one thing. Losing for poor plan is a different, disappointing matter. Personally, I think the key is bring Luke Gazdic back to the roster. Sure the guy only had a goal and led the team in PIM yet he brought in some toughness to free up Lindgren, Rallo and Wathier to score. Maybe the coach will bring Luke back next week to fast “Nasty” Mirasty of the Syracause Crunch, the Oggie Oglethorpe of the AHL.
Finally, Martin Broadeur beat Terry Sawchuk’s shutout record that held for almost 40 years with number 104. The only good thing I could say is at least he didn’t achieve it against the Flyers.
Closing with my team, now called the Legion of Gloom, it seems the upcoming Winter Classic against the Bruins will be a ratings nightmare. Who wants to broadcast a game involving a last-place franchise? Definitely making me reconsider wanting a jersey shared by a bunch of jerks making half-assed efforts. Well, I do forgive Brian Boucher, he’s the backup goalie thrown into this mess so most of this isn’t his fault.
On to the upcoming news regarding the line up for Team USA at next year’s Olympic lineup.