Thursday, February 16, 2012

Rick Nash

The trade deadline is just over a week away and the big fish on the market is Columbus Blue Jackets winger, Rick Nash. With an apparent short list of teams he is willing to go to and Toronto being one of the teams, should Brian Burke make a deal for the late twenties winger?

It really comes down to the price that Columbus's GM is asking for. If it brinks on ridiculousness, then I have no problem with Burke passing. I, however hope he tries to put in a decent offer.

Now, no one really knows Nash's true value, because well, we are not NHL GM's. I think a fair offer from Toronto would include Luke Schenn, Clarke MacArthur, one of Kadri/Colborne, Ben Scrivens and a 1st. Steep? Oh, it is very very steep. I'm not sure if I'd even do that trade. Realistically though, I believe that is what will be the asking price.

It will come down to a few factors. Ben Scrivens and a 1st is not a huge loss to be honest. The crucial decision will be deciding if we should let Kadri + Schenn go. Those are two big blows to our prospect pool and depth. If Burke believes Nash can push us over the top, then he will do it.

It is a very sticky situation. There is a possibility that it won't be settled by the Feb 27th deadline and it could drag on into the offseason. In any case, I don't see Nash being a Blue Jacket in the 2012-2013 season. This is the tipping point and he will be in a different jersey next year.

It comes down to which NHL GM is willing to risk it all on this underachieving winger.

Friday, February 10, 2012

The Sentimental Side of Hockey

The Maple Leafs and Canadiens will square off for the 4th time this season and it always brings back memories of my dad. To the disbelief of most, he was an avid Montreal Canadiens fan. Thankfully for me, my grandfather made sure I became a Leafs fan. This led to many fun moments as a kid growing up.

The Saturday night battles between these two rivals would be a time where me and my dad would get together. We'd order in chinese food and watch the game at his place. It was always something Id looked forward to and is always etched in my mind when these two teams play even today.

My dad passed away 4 years ago in a car accident, but these games still hold an emotional value to me. At his funeral during my eulogy to him, I wore a Canadiens jersey. It was a special bond we shared and the same bond he shared with his father. Some people will say it is just a game, but it holds a different connection to me. It is a much deeper connection than anyone will realize.

When I turn on CBC tomorrow night, those great memories of my dad will come flooding back. It is something I cherish and hope to do the same when I become a father.

Love you and miss you, dad.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

The Battle of Ontario

The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Ottawa Senators in the most important game of the season as of this point. Trailing the Sens by three points with as many games in hand this morning, the Leafs had a great chance to make a positive move towards a playoff spot.

By winning in regulation, the Leafs are now only a point behind the Sens and can overtake them if they can defeat the Edmonton Oilers on Monday night.

This is a very important week for the Leafs, as they play four games in six nights. Edmonton, Winnipeg and Montreal are all very winnable games, while the other is against Philadelphia. Six of eight points should be required from this week.

It is going to be one tight playoff race.