Rocket Surgeons

From yesterday's local "Total Sports" talk radio show -

• John Davidson reacting to the local hosts approval of shootouts in the NHL; although fans love it, he is opposed to the shootout and would rather see them extend overtime with a period of three on three hockey. John said this way the game would end on a "hockey play". Uh John, what happens if a player is pulled down on a clear breakaway in overtime? If the player scored on the subsequent penalty shot would the game continue?

• Dean Millard filling in as host on the same show said he supported the shootout but hated the extra point for "losing" in overtime. Until the NHL plays every game to a win and eliminates ties altogether there is no such thing as a bonus point for "losing". A tie is given to two teams completing the regulation 60 minute game with an even score and the teams are awarded a single point each. The extra point is awarded if a win is achieved in the extra period. The NHL could clear this misconception very easily by changing the standings to reflect the bonus point for winning in the extra period instead of labeling the column OTL. The bastardized point is awarded in the bastardized extra period, end of story. I do, however, absolutely support his other contention that teams winning in regulation should receive 3 points for the result, regardless of the effect it would have on historical comparisons.

Derian Hatcher in this mornings Edmonton Journal - "Our players are united, regardless of what people hear or say." Teamate Chris Chelios responds "It's not to make the game better or the league better because if we're going to do that we'd get rid of some teams...we've watered down the league." Solidarity, but not for everyone I guess, huh Chris? We're tight just so long as we can cut a bunch of you losers loose when we're done, but thanks for the support. By the way Chris, do you think there's room in a 20 team league for 40 year old defensemen?