Jibbing the Sports and Culture

Taiwan's International Athletes

2010-10-02T22:04:00.000-07:00

So after a long hiatus from the world of blogging...... I AM BACK!
Since I've been in Taiwan for the past bit, I will write about the world of sports and culture here.

I think Taiwan is starving for an International superstar for political leverage and something to unite the country. The political issues surrounding Taiwan and China is a long and complex one, but within Taiwan, the country is divided into two pending on which political party you are supporting. Let's face it... Taiwan is not the most well-known country in the world. The best and easy way to get a country's name out there..... is through the means of sports, media, and culture.
Politics aside... lets take a look at Taiwanese athletes representing the country.

Chien Ming Wang
Former starter.. and arguably the ace for the Yankees few years back. Wang posted back to back 19 wins seasons in the tough AL East but failed to perform in the playoffs. He definitely united the people of Taiwan exemplified by the flags seen at Major League stadiums whenever the Yankees visited different cities. Yankee merchandises sold like mad here in Taiwan.... not to mention the fake Yankee knock-offs.

Hong-Chih Kuo
Breakout season for this pitcher playing for the Dodgers. Playing in a major market in LA i would expect the fanfare to be just as crazy as Chien Ming Wang during his hay-day with the Yankees. With a record of 3-2 and a minuscule ERA of 1.22 he is definitely one of the best pitchers in the majors this year. I think another reason why Kuo is garnering less attention than Wang is because 1. Dodgers is no Yankees 2. Starting pitcher > Setup Pitcher 3. Wang was the first real Taiwanese baseball superstar playing in the majors.

Yani Tseng
This is an amazing case... especially political factors surrounding Tseng. Recently she was offered $25million U.S and a private jet from a Chinese company, but she rejected because one of the stipulation was for her to change her citizenship to Chinese instead of Taiwanese. I was shocked when I heard this. Didn't know you can "buy" a person and make this person a citizen of your country. This just proves the political intensity surrounding Taiwan and China. You don't see Kobe Bryant... Tiger Woods... David Beckham having this problem. A superstar is a superstar at his or her sport and it crosses race and Nationality... thats the beauty of sporting competition.

Looking at Tseng Yani's statistics, she has broken many records from being the youngest person to win tournaments to the youngest person to make a certain amount of money. She is only 21 years old and her future is bright. What is even more impressive is her patriotic ways representing Taiwan not selling out for the money. She is the sweetheart of Taiwan.
Tseng Yani Stats:
- 3 majors - McDonalds LPGA Championship, Kraft Nabisco Championship, Ricoh Women's British Open - 10 Professional Wins - LPGA Rookie of the year 2008

Politics is funny... it just makes things that much more complicated. Sports break down barriers and unites people but politics does get in the way. People can argue and have wars... but everything just stops when theres a sporting competition. Lets face it... I'm not naive... sports sometimes add more fuel to the fire concerning politics but more often than not... it unites people.

Prediction: Sundin to the Canucks

2008-11-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

Mats Sundin rumors have been and will be the center of attention in the NHL for the next month, as we are coming closer and closer to the day he signs with a NHL club. I am saying the words now - Mats Sundin will be in the Vancouver Canucks lineup come January 2009. Sundin will be signing with Vancouver sometime in December and suit up near Christmas time.
I previously spoke about Luongo's injury and if it was for an extended period of time - Sundin will be going elsewhere. Now we know it is only a "week to week" injury, so when Loungo is in the lineup, so will Sundin. There are still many teams in contention for the Sundin sweepstakes, but I think Vancouver will come out on top.

Reason to sign:

Chance at a cup: I guarantee you Gilles has or will tell Sundin that if he signs with the club, he will make a blockbuster trade at the deadline to stack the team in an attempt to make a run this season and the next. Why have Luongo and Sundin secured in the lineup for the next two years without making a run. The window is starting to close and the chance at the cup is now.
Added scoring: Vancouver is currently 8th in NHL teams in scoring just behind the Pittsburgh Penguins. Vancouver coming into the season is once again plagued by the question of where the offence is going to come from. 1/4 through the season, the Canucks are not as offensive challenged as many predicted, but help is definitely needed. Sundin will secure a solid first or second line with the Sedins on the other.
Captaincy problem: Whatever team Sundin goes to will have a leadership conflict. A captain throughout his career, Sundin will continue to lead. How this situation is perfect in Vancouver is that Luongo is the captain of the team and Sundin can help with the offensive unit while Luongo still wears the "C". If Naslund was still a Canuck with Sundin coming in, the situation will be a lot more difficult compared to going the unconventional route with Luongo as the captain.
Olympics: I personally don't think this is a big deal, but if he joins the Canucks he can represent Sweden in the 2010 Olympics playing in front of his hometown fans. This might not be the ultimate decision maker for Sundin, but it doesn't harm the cause for the Canucks.
Money: One simple word - MONEY. Canucks has not taken off the 2 year-10million dollar contract they offered Sundin on July 1st. No other team came close to the offer and money is definitely in anybody's consideration when signing a contract.
Salary Cap Room: Canucks still has close to 10 million dollars in contract space and they are the only team in the running that can deliver the contract to Sundin today and have him sign it without altering the team. All the other teams need to free up cap-space and dump salary in order to sign Sundin. Trades are not easy to make in the NHL - Montreal and New York Rangers will basically be throwing away players in order to free up cap-room.
Travelling: One of the biggest set-back in Vancouver's attempt to sign Sundin. Western teams are disadvantaged in the scheduling as proximity of cities in the West are farther apart than the East. As Sundin says himself, travelling is no longer an issue with a shorten season for him.

Conspiracy Theory:
- Sundin and Gilles already had a verbal contract worked out in the off-season stating that Sundin will sign with the Canucks in the middle of the season. Why I say this is that how can a first time GM be so patient and leave so much cap-space knowing far too well he needs more scoring. Who knows when Sundin will make up his mind, and by then maybe the Canucks are already so far out of playoff contention they need to blow up the team. Leaving that much cap-room open seems a little skeptical to me. But maybe thats why he is the GM and I am not.

- Sundin signing in the middle of the season also cuts down the labor of travelling out in the West. He doesn't want to go through all the travelling of the season so he waits till middle of the season to sign with the Canucks.

- Naming Luongo as captain eases the awkwardness of bringing in Sundin to a team mid-season. They could have easily named Willie Mitchell as the captain, but when Sundin comes in, the chemistry of the locker-room will be different. But with Luongo, he is the undisputed Captain of the team.

With all these events adding up, it seems like Gilles and Sundin already had everything planned out. I can't think of any other teams or situation that is more perfect for Sundin than than the Canucks. Everything that he would consider, Vancouver comes out on top. Sundin as a Canuck come 2009!

Ottawa Senators on the Decline

2008-11-29T23:42:00.000-08:00

How the mighty have fallen - the Ottawa Senators have dropped 3 straight games to the horrible New York Islanders and are just 2 points in front of Dallas, the worst team in the league. The same Ottawa team that set a new NHL record for the best start after the first 16 games last season. Many would argue that the record is unjustified and this is a bump in the road to success. I on the contrary believe the once powerhouse Senators team is on the decline and dropping fast.

Reasons for the Decline:
- Defensive players such as Redden, Meszaros, and Corvo has been replaced by Kuba, Picard, and Smith. Although Kuba is a pleasant surprise, Corvo is having an excellent year in Carolina and Redden/Meszaros are all top-end NHL players in my opinion.

- The Dominik Hasek experiment was to sure up the skeptical goaltending situation Ottawa has been receiving for the past decade. That turned out to be a bust. Fast forwarding to 2008, Ottawa is still having problems in net - and with an unacceptable defensive unit, the Ottawa back-end although stats-wise seems decent, it is definitely not as good as previous years.

- Surprisingly, Ottawa has been struggling to put pucks in the net this season. The power line of Spezza, Heatley, and Alfredsson is contributing, but not tearing up the league like we're accustomed to. Secondary scoring has practically disappeared. Behind Alfredsson, Heatley, and Spezza, the next three scorers are defenders and Jarkko Ruutu.

What to Do:
1. Here is a suggestion. Blow up the team and make a trade with Vancouver. Start rebuilding the team from the back-end by acquiring a defence from Vancouver (Ohlund? Bieksa?) and Cory Schneider for one of the top forwards on the team (Spezza? Heatley?). Vancouver has Luongo and Cory Schneider is a top-end goalie that might very well be expandable for the right price.

2. Time to rebuild the franchise. Alfredsson recently signed a long-term contract to stay with Ottawa for the rest of his career. Restructure the team for couple of years around Alfredsson and either Spezza/Heatley with a solid defensive core and make a run in a few years time.

3. Continue to go in the tank and hope for Tavares or Hedman. Previously i suggested for Vancouver to throw away the season if Luongo was out for an extended period of time in hopes of picking up one of the two prospects. Throwing away a season for a draft pick might not be the best idea, but when the top two picks has the caliber of Tavares or Hedman, finishing last is not a bad idea.

Something needs to be done in Ottawa to turn the franchise around. If they think things will just improve as is, they are in for a big surprise. There are too many flaws in the team to have a legit shot for the playoffs. Scoring was the key to the team for the past few years and do they really think Alex Auld or even Gerber can carry them into the playoffs. Key to the Sens - Make a Trade!

Brian Burke in Toronto

2008-11-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

Brian Burke is soon going to confirm what we all have known/speculated over the past year or so - he is ending up with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Brian Burke in Toronto.. hmm... just seems so perfect, but is it really. Let us analyze what the next six years will be like in Toronto under Brian Burke's reign of chaos.

5 Reasons why Burke will succeed in Toronto:

1. He is a loudmouth GM that will do anything to stick up for his players. I'll always remember during the Canucks playoff runs he will step up to the mic after the game and start his rant on the refs making lousy calls and defending the Sedins - "Todd bertuzzi does not play for detroit" -
"Sedin, is not english for punch me or headlock me in a scrum." The thing with Brian Burke is when he is in charge, you know he's in charge of the team. He is one person you know that is not going to take crap from anyone up at MLSE.

2. Ron Wilson. Burke lucked out with the Ron Wilson hiring. He is someone who Brian Burke is comfortable with and many would argue that the Leafs hired Wilson to entice Burke. Imagine if he had a coach he didn't want, let's say, Paul Maurice. He will give Maurice 1-2 years to see how he does, but once the team goes sour, he'll be fired. This leaves Burke and his new coaching staff with only 3-4 years to turn around a dismal team.

3. There is nowhere to go but up for Toronto. Although everyone there thinks he's a saint that will revive the Leafs organization, this just puts the bar a bit higher for him. What constitutes as success? Making the playoffs? Stanley Cup? A competitive, 4th/5th place team? He has plenty of time to try and retry a successful formula in six years. If success means improving on the past couple of years, I think he will have success there.

4. He will definitely bring the centre of attention back to Toronto. The hockey capital of the world if not going to win the Stanley Cup, they will definitely be the loudest franchise in the world. With bold moves and constant media attention, the Leafs will be in media outlets around North America and especially Canada even if we don't like it.

5. Finally, who else would be more perfect or suited for this position - Scotty Bowman? Lou Lamoriello? Although they are valiant candidates, they don't have the charisma and attitude that Burke has. Who knows if on a managing and constructing a team point of view if Burke is more qualified than Bowman or Lamoriello, but for a thick skin and daily encounters with the Toronto media, Burke is the man.

- Keep in mind I didn't put his great GMing skills as one of the reasons for success in Toronto. Mostly his success in Toronto has to do with his personality as I am still a little skeptical on his construction of a team. He did do a great job in Vancouver, but what was left of the team when he left was pretty bad.

Summing it up
Now it is up to Burke and see what he does with this franchise for the next six years. This will make or break his career and legacy in career imo. If the Stanley Cup ultimately lands in Toronto before 2014, Burke will go down in history as the best GM and hockey person in NHL history. On the contrary, if the team is still battling for playoff spots and contemplating rebuilding year after year, Burke might very well be crucified in Toronto. John Ferguson Jr. had his escape route ready with being a first time GM and inexperience playing a part in the failure. Burke will have no such excuses for failure. Starting December 2008, the hockey landscape will change with Burke in Toronto.

Whistler Blackcomb Peak 2 Peak Gondola Opening

2008-11-26T00:03:00.000-08:00

For all you jibbers and shredders out there. Whistler Blackcomb is opening their long awaited peak 2 peak gondola this winter.

Peak 2 Peak Explanation
For people who is not familiar with Whistler Blackcomb - Whistler is one mountain and Blackcomb is another mountain. They are next to each other, but the whole area is often just referred to as Whistler in the tourism industry. The gondola in essence connects the two at the peak hence the name peak 2 peak. Before, riders would have to make their way down near the bottom to cross mountains, but now they have virtually created one big mountain with the gondola.

Best Runs on Both Mountains
The Whistler Blackcomb magazine has put together a list of "bests" on both mountains now that the gondola is finished - a list of Best Runs specified by categories. The time to cross from Whistler to Blackcomb (or vice versa) only takes approximately 11 minutes now instead of riders picking only one mountain to spend their day.
Best Powder: - Harmony Bowl, Whistler Mountain
Scariest Line: - Air Jordan, Whistler Mountain
Best Park: - Nintendo Highlest level, Blackcomb Mountain
Best Cruising: - 7th Heaven, Blackcomb Mountain
Best Storm Riding: - Christmas Trees, Whistler Mountain

The hype around the mountains and the peak 2 peak gondola is enormous. Events are being set up from auctions to be the first one to ride the gondola to a virtual experience and a Google Earth Flyover of the area.
With the Olympic tickets being sold and the torch relay route planned and scheduled, we are nearing the Olympics where the peak 2 peak gondola will be showcased to the world.
The Peak to Peak Gondola will start operation and take commercial customers on December 12, 2008 - The countdown begins.

LeBron VI Big Apple foreshadows Lebron as a Knick

2008-11-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

LeBron James will be debuting his new shoe - the LeBron VI Big Apple - Nike Zoom Lebron VI tonight at Madison Square Garden. Part of the reason why this is getting so much hype is because, well its LBJ, but also the rumors swirling around him signing with a New York based team in the Nets or Knicks come 2010 when his contract ends with Cleveland.

This special Big Apple version of his shoe is foreshadowing his ultimate demise in Cleveland and a beginning in New York. He has, in my opinion already laid down the foundations to his depature. He was booed after dribbling out the last few seconds of their previous game where by hitting 100 points, everyone would receive a free Chalupa. The game ended with the Cavaliers stuck at 99 points. The heavy criticisms and boos can be and will be used as the "not being appreciated" card when he decides to leave Cleveland.
I do think that the Knicks need a league star like LeBron - I predicted that he will be the MVP this season, and with that on his resume, he will be perfect in white, blue and orange. L.A has Kobe, New York needs Lebron. Now we're just all waiting for 2010 the Summer of LeBron.

Is Junichi Tazawa worth $6 Million

2008-11-24T01:30:00.000-08:00

Junichi Tazawa is not yet a household name, but he might soon very well be. Boston Red Sox offered this 22 year old Japanese pitcher a $6 Million contract. No big deal right - Ichiro, Daisuke, Johjima, Matsui all had major contracts with their respective MLB team. Here comes the catch - this player is only 22 years old as he requested not to be drafted by a Japanese team so he can sign with a MLB team immediately. Unlike Ichiro, Matsui and friends, that were proven stars overseas before they were offered a hefty contract by MLB teams. Tazawa is still young and he can very well be the next Matt Garza or the next Érik Bédard (who ultimately was a bust).

Nomo, Daisuke, and all the Japanese pitchers paved the way for this young man to have a chance to sign with a MLB team before showcasing his skills in Japan. So far the Japanese pitchers (and also players) that have made the transition from Japan to North America has been very smooth. These players have taken the league by storm and represented Japan well with their stardom in MLB. The track record they have laid down ultimately paved the way for Tazawa to be considered by teams.
Who knows how this will pan out. Not every Japanese player is the next Daisuke or Okajima - the Red Sox is taking a chance with him, but one thing we do know is that Tazawa will be in good hands learning from Daisuke and Okajima. I think this is the beginning of a trend with touted oversea rookies being scouted by MLB before turning pro in their respective countries.

Roberto Luongo Injured: Future of the Canucks

2008-11-23T12:00:00.000-08:00

Seems like we need to wait another day to find out the diagnostic and extent of Luongo's injury.
Now lets look at the consequences if Luongo is done for an extended period of time.

Negatives:
One of, if not the most important player to a team in the league - Luongo the captain, the leader of the Canucks is the key to the successful 13-6-2 record. Without Luongo, the future of the team looks bleak.
- No Playoffs. No Money: Although the Canucks are sitting comfortably in a playoff position right now, we are only 1/4 through the season and a downward fall in the standings can happen with a bad month in the super tight Western Conference. By making the playoffs a team is guaranteed AT LEAST two games at home. With revenue coming in from attendance and television deals, by missing the playoffs, the team is losing out on millions of dollars. No Luongo, no playoffs.

- Say goodbye to Sundin: A Canucks team without Luongo is exactly like the Dallas Cowboys without Tony Romo - the team is not going anywhere. With the Sundin talks heating up, money, success of the team, and chance of winning is the key to Sundin's considerations when choosing a team. Everyone knows the Canucks aren't going anywhere without Luongo so why would Sundin come to a team that has no chance.

- Time to Rebuild? : Looking at the situation in the most pessimistic angle possible, is the Luongo injury going to force the Canucks to rebuild? If the team starts going in the tank and fall far down in the standings, the Canucks might have to be sellers when the trading deadline comes. With upcoming free agents - Sedins and Ohlund, the team might dump these players for some young players or draft picks - the Canucks rebuilding process begins.

Positives:
I know its not easy to find a silver lining when the franchise player goes down, but lets see if we can find any positives in this situation.

- Cory Schneider: The Canucks have already called up Cory Schneider from the Manitoba Moose to back up Curtis Sanford in case Luongo is unable to play. Schenider the future goalie of the Canucks (or at least a trade bait) can finally have some NHL playing time with Luongo injured. He is posting an impressive 10-1 record and 1.37 GAA in the AHL, and it seems like he is ready for some NHL action. Tony Romo, Tom Brady, and Cam Ward were all beneficiaries of stepping in and showcasing their skills when the no.1 (QB or Goalie) went down or struggled. Maybe this is Cory Schneider's time.

- Tavares or Hedman: Two great picks in the 2009 draft in Tavares and Hedman. If the season really goes sour for the Canucks, maybe there is a chance of picking up Tavares or Hedman in the upcoming entry draft. These two are considered future franchise players and if the Canucks are lucky enough to grab one of the two, losing Luongo this season and finish at the bottom of the league will not hurt as much.

Conclusion:
Now we just have to wait and see on Monday what is going to happen with the Canucks future. I have already discussed the Stars troubles losing Morrow, losing Luongo will devastate the Canucks franchise - maybe I'll be wrong with the Canucks continuing to push for a playoff spot - or maybe Luongo is not hurt at all. We Shall See.

Vancouver 2010 Olympics Relay Route

2008-11-22T14:38:00.000-08:00

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Route has been announced and it is taking a 106-day track all around Canada from the Queen Charlottes, the North West Territories, to Cape Spear in St.Johns.

For those who needs a history lesson on the Torch relay - it is a symbol of the Olympic Games to honor Prometheus stealing of Zeus's flame in Greek Mythology. But in contemporary society, the Olympic Torch relay is more of a symbol of human rights, equality, and liberalism now it seems. The Beijing Olympics caused major uproars in many areas the torch travelled through. Many activists tried to distinguish the fire to make a political statement. Majority were upset with the violation of human rights in China, specifically Tibet. Now with the Torch route announced, I wonder if the demonstrations will happen this time around.

Detailed route of the relay:
- Five Days on Vancouver Island
- Flown to Northern Yukon
- Then to the Canadian Forces Base up North (northernmost settlement in the world)
- Travel to Northern Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba
- Newfoundland
- Then make its way back to BC spending 22 days there
- Finally to BC Place for the opening ceremony

Morrow out for Season - Stars are done - Time to Rebuild

2008-11-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

Brendan Morrow is sidelined for the season with a torn ACL - what now for the Dallas Stars. As of November 21st, 2008, the Stars are tied for second last in the league with 15 points and now losing their captain for an extended period of time, its time to throw in the towel. Season over for the Stars.

Reason for the downfall
The beginning of the end for Dallas came on July 2nd 2008 when they offered $15.5 million to the one and only, Sean Avery. We all heard the impressive numbers the Rangers racked up in the 07/08 season with Avery in the lineup, and the horrible numbers without him. Dallas took a chance on a player who is often referred to as a cancer in the locker room and signed him to a long-term contract.
Lets take a look whether this deal worked out or not. Dallas is posting one of the worst numbers in their recent history - Turco's number is a ridiculous 3.67GAA and .867sv%. The team won one game in their first eight games and their longtime face of the franchise - Mike Modano spoke out publicly on the antics of Avery and Ott against the Bruins.

"Tonight, it was idiotic and stupid," Stars center Mike Modano said when asked what the team identity was. "It was one of the most embarrassing things I've seen. If that's what we're going for, then they need to find me an office job."

Time for a Change
This star studded lineup is supposed to contend for the Stanley Cup. Having lured Brad Richards from the Lightning last season, everyone thought they were a force to reckon with, but who did they give up to get him, Mike Smith. With the Turco struggles this season and Mike Smith posting up impressive numbers in Tampa, that looks like one bad trade for the Stars. With Morrow done for the season, it is time to blow up this team and start from the bottom up. This team had their chance at a Stanley Cup, but with players aging, goalies playing bad, and Sean Avery on the team, change is needed while the players are still considered a commodity.
I predicted the Stars to miss the playoffs, and now they definitely will. This team is not going up, it is on the decline. Time to blow it up Brett Hull!

Advertising in Sports

2008-11-21T02:24:00.000-08:00

Sports advertisements has become more prevelant in the recent years with major corporations buying stakes in sports teams as well as stadiums to have their name associted with the culture of sports. For example Disney owned the Anaheim Mighty Ducks and AOL Time Warner owned Atlanta based sports teams in the Thrashers, Braves, and Hawks.
In Disney's case, they had a whole marketing plan for the Mighty Ducks. They were hoping by releasing the Mighty Ducks Movie, sweaters and tickets of the team would be swiped off the shelves immediately. They were wrong.

Now what is the present and the future state of Advertising in sports

Stadiums
GM place, Philips Arena, Rexall Place, TD Banknorth Garden, Bell Centre - these are just samples of arenas named after major corporations. Looking around major sports teams in North America, probably 90% of the teams play in stadiums named after corporations. In hockey the iconic Maple Leafs Garden and Montreal Forum has been replaced by Bell Centre and Air Canada Centre. At least the new Yankee Stadium is keeping its' name.

Commercials
Superbowl, the cultural phenomenon in the United States has many entertainment values on several levels. Besides the game itself, the half-time show and Superbowl Ads are always heavily anticipated. Companies are willing to spend $2.6million dollars for a simple 30second spot during the game. These ads are incredibly creative and it begs the question, what is the relation between sports and advertisements when millions of dollars are exchanged for a 30second commercial

Advertisements in baseball
Remember back when Spiderman 2 was about to release and MLB was about to have ads of the movie on the bases. Baseball, the most traditional game in North America was about to take a huge leap to the right wing. The deal eventually fell through in part to the dismay of the traditional fans. For once the little people had a say and stopped the corporations from doing whatever they want. I just think that this event is just foreshadowing the inevitable mass advertisements in baseball.

Hockey
Just recently, Olaf Kolzig and Mike Smith (goaltenders for the Tampa Bay Lightning) used their masks as billboards for the upcoming movie SAW V. The creativity was beyond my imagination. I thought ads would be on hockey sweaters or even along the ice before the goalie mask. It made perfect sense however. Whats next, goalie pads, blockers, and gloves painted for advertising? Imagine this, Luongo's pads, mask, blocker, and glove is painted in bright red and yellow with the McDonald arch all over it. Well, what do you know, Luongo signed a $50Million contract with McDonalds just to put these ugly yellow arches on his red equipment.

Teams
Red Bulls New York. Yes that is an actual soccer team in the MLS named strictly after a corporation. Doesn't seem like such a bad idea. Although it might seem ridiculous, but there are far worst team names out there and this is definitely an easy way to have your company name part of the sports culture. Just look at the Yankees, the team itself and the NY logo is already a brand. The Yankees brand. Don't laugh now, this can happen to your favorite sports team. Boston Celtics to Boston Coca Cola - has a nice ring to it.

Future
I think in the future, we will be basking in stadiums filled with advertisements from jerseys, seats, floor, ice, and whatever you can think of. It will be so part of the norm that no one will have second thoughts about it. Can you imagine an NHL rink without advertisements along the boards now? In a consumerism society we are living in, its a win-win situation for everybody regarding advertisements. The teams are receiving revenue from advertising companies - Us consumers are the pack of sheeps that purchases whatever these social elites are telling us to buy - and these major corporations are making more money from sales of their items to us.

Marion Gaborik on the Move

2008-11-19T00:03:00.000-08:00

The question is, Where and what team is Marion Gaborik going to? We are weeks, if not days away from the inevitable trade of Marion Gaborik from the Wild to a team that is risking a lot for an injury prone player who when on top of his game is one of the best in the NHL.
Here are the teams that are rumored in the running as well as my thoughts:

Vancouver Canucks
I know the Canucks would love to grab Gaborik to play alongside his good friend Demitra, but it is highly unlikely for Minnesota to trade their franchise player to a North West Divisional Rival. Demitra/Sundin/Gaborik. WOW! Instant Stanley Cup contending team with that line.

Montreal Canadiens
Montreal has been in all the big talks this season first with Hossa then with Sundin. Gaborik will be joining a heavily stacked Montreal team that is definitely pushing for the Stanley Cup this season.

New York Rangers
I can never rule out the Rangers. They are a star-hungry team that wants to load up on superstars instead of considering about the fit. I have no idea how they are going to make it work with Gaborik, but another superstar that can score will never hurt.
Maybe its a New York thing, with the Yankees doing the exact same thing.

Philadelphia Flyers
A baby Rangers in my opinion with the team always hungry for superstars. Sundin, Forsberg, and now Gaborik. The team was a Stanley Cup contender in many people's mind at the beginning of season, but with the underachievement, changes needs to be made. Although the back end is what I think the team needs, but maybe they will take the route of outscoring the opponents. They took a chance with Forsberg and his injury, we know they will too with Gaborik.

Chicago Blackhawks
I still think Chicago is a year or two away from being a Stanley Cup contender, but they have been in all the major trade talks and signings this season. Rumors about Chicago wanting Nylander just stirs the pot even more. If the trade falls through, I can imagine them dumping Khabibulin or Huet to Minnesota for Gaborik. Sundin, Nylander, and Gaborik - they can only choose one. Who will it be.

Teams trading for Gaborik hoping to sign him instead of a Loan:

Atlanta Thrashers
Although they are rebuilding, I can see Atlanta making a trade for Gaborik to play alongside Kovalchuk. The team will be rebuilding around these two players.

Carolina Hurricane
The team has cap space to deal with. A current strong team that wouldn't mind the offensive help Gaborik will give to Staal.

New York Islanders
Also a rebuilding team that would not mind building around Gaborik. With Charles Wang and Garth Snow in charge, anything crazy can happen on Long Island.

Bears playing Hockey

2008-11-18T23:37:00.000-08:00

This is one of the most amazing clips I have ever seen. We've seen monkeys playing sports and elephants playing soccer. Have you ever seen bears playing hockey?
Keep watching until around the 1:54 mark and you'll see the crap the refs have to deal with

Roger Clemens and Mindy Mccready

2008-11-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

How fast can Roger Clemen's career and legacy fall into the gutter. The once dominant pitcher who threw 20 strikeouts in one game on two separate occasion has now been labelled as a cheater on and off the field.

On the Field:
Barry Bonds was once the lone sacrificial lamb of the steroids era in baseball but now with allegations from Brian McNamee, a dark cloud overhangs the legitimacy of Clemen's career and legacy.
What will always stick out in my mind is during the subway series between the Yankees and Mets in 2000 - the Clemens and Piazza feud - when Clemens threw the broken bat at Piazza is an exact depiction of a steroid user exemplifying roid rage. At the time we all thought it was intensity and competitiveness ended up being steroids.
If Barry Bonds has an asterisk beside his accomplishments, I think Roger Clemens should too.

Off the Field:
His affair with Mindy Mccready really put a stamp on what kind of person Roger Clemens really is. She was only 15 YEARS OLD! He is 13 years older than she is.
There are also allegations of Clemens involved in three other extra-marital relationships. The real victim is definitely Debbie Clemens who has to live with his roid-rage, extra curricular activities, and personality.

The once legend is just part of the bigger picture of the steroid usage era in Major League Baseball. Records were falling left and right from Barry Bonds home run record to Roger Clemens pitching dominance. Arguably the two best pitcher and hitter in history resided in this time period. Clemens was lucky to have kept away from all the controversies and hate Barry Bonds was receiving until his name was dragged into the dark clouds. It is interesting however that both Clemens and Bonds have off-field issues and are not the most well-liked people in baseball. The longer this drags on, the hate for Roger Clemens increases. I wonder if he will ever make it into the Cooperstown now. Funny how in a few simple years, someone can be at at the pinnacle only to fall off the mountain in an instance.

Eri Yoshida - 16 year old girl Drafted by Pro Baseball League

2008-11-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

Eri Yoshida, a 16 year old girl was drafted by Kobe 9 Cruise to play alongside men in a new independent Japanese league. She joins the likes of Danica Patrick, Michelle Wie, and Hayley Wickenheiser to play against the men in their repsective sport.
This is just the beginning for her as she wants to play pro in a higher league and be just as good as Tim Wakefield.

I think this could work. She is a knuckleball pitcher who in no way is trying to overpower the hitters. She might inspire highly skilled girls to pursue a career in baseball now. From what I understand of the mechanics of the knuckleball - you release the ball with hardly any spin on it hence the ball changing direction many times before it hits home plate. It also works in soccer when someone toe-punts the ball without giving it any spin it moves the ball erratically. You could all try this out - as toe-punting a soccer ball is a lot easier than throwing a knuckleball. Nonetheless, if she has a good enough command on the knuckleball, her chance of success is very high.
For all you scientists out there, you could read about the scientific reasoning to a knuckleball. I say Good For Her - and good luck.

Here is a funny spoof of what we might be seeing from Eri Yoshida.

Now here is a real clip of her.

Ovechkin VS. Crosby

2008-11-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

Who would you want to build a team around, who is the better player, who do you like more, who would you use to market the game - Sidney Crosby or Alex Ovechkin.
The two young superstars of the league, who would you pick. Looking at the these two players, there are many similarities as well as differences.

Differences:
- Personality
- Playing style
- Nationality
- Charisma

Similarities:
- Skills
- Marketability
- Future of the League
- Scoring Prowess

Comparison:
Looking at stats alone as of November 16 2008, Ovechkin has (170G, 158A, 328points) in 260 Games. Crosby has (105G, 211A, 316points) in 230 Games. Stats alone are similar but if we look at the team they have played on, Crosby definitely has the better supporting cast than Ovechkin. Prior to this season and the emergence of Alex Semin, and Nicklas Backstrom, Ovechkin never had the players to play with him as well as take the pressure off of him. Ever since the beginning of his career, Crosby had the guidance of Mario Lemieux then Evgeni Malkin and Jordan Staal to play with.

Hardware wise, they are both neck and neck in awards matching each other, but Ovechkin still has the upper-hand with the Art Ross, Lester B. Pearson Award, Hart Trophy, Calder, and the Maurice Richard Trophy. Crosby on the other hand has the Art Ross Trophy, Lester B. Pearson Award, Hart Trophy, and the Eastern Conference Championship last season.

My Pick:
They will continue to be compared throughout their careers with the first one to win a Stanley Cup holding the advantage over the other. As of now, I think I would build my team around Ovechkin based on his goal scoring ability, charisma, entertainment value, personality,
Seeing him score and his excitement after will bring anyone to their feet. He is the total package - he can hit, score, and breaks away from the European hockey stereotype of not performing in the playoffs. Now with a better team and support, you will see The Capitals take a long run in the playoffs with the future captain Ovechkin leading the franchise for years to come. He will go down in the history as the best Russian born player in the NHL.

UFC 91 submits the WWE

2008-11-15T01:33:00.000-08:00

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the beginning of the end for the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The reason why I say this is because as the UFC become more and more mainstream, people will start to see what real fighting is and none of the sissy slapping and punching while I stomp the ground the WWE "superstars" are doing.
I know the WWE is like a soap opera for guys with storylines, conflicts, love interests, and gangs, but it is still based on wrestling and sometimes fighting. MMA and UFC in specific has arguably taken over boxing on a interest level and the popularity continues to grow.

Now for UFC 91, we have a former WWE superstar in Brock Lesnar who has traded away his performing and acting for the MMA. There are also rumors of Kurt Angle leaving the wrestling business to join the MMA. We are seeing a shift from athletes that wants the reality of facing an opponent and winning based on skills instead of a storyline.
There will always be performers who wants to join the WWE to perform their charisma in front of thousands of people instead of fighting for their lives in a octagon. I just think that as UFC and MMA become mainstream, it will ultimately spell the death for the WWE. Maybe not the death, but a definite decline in popularity from a fans point of view as well as top notch athletes joining the MMA instead of the WWE hence the case of Brock Lesnar and possibly Kurt Angle. Rumor also has it that Bobby Lashley has left the WWE for a career in an octagon.

Today in UFC 91, if the result is Brock Lesnar overtaking Randy Couture, the spotlight will land on this former WWE superstar and the analysis and comparsion between the WWE and UFC will begin.
As the Buggles once sang, Video Killed the Radio Star. I would like to say that the UFC killed the WWE stars.

Lebron James MVP 08-09

2008-11-15T00:45:00.000-08:00

Mark my words right here right now. Lebron James will be the NBA MVP this season. Being in the NBA Finals two seasons ago and having won the Olympic Gold Medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Lebron James is soaring to new heights this season leading the Cavs to a 7-2 record and averaging 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists this season. I don't think the team has enough to overtake the Celtics in the Eastern conference, but they will be up there in the standings throughout.

He already amazed fans with his vertical and athleticism this season. During a game against the Bucks, LBJ jumped from the free throw line for a dunk. His dunk is definitely one of the highlights of the season in the NBA so far. Julius "Dr. J" Erving was the first and Michael Jordan did it during the 1988 Dunk Contest. Now you can add Lebron into the high flyers group.

Canucks third Jersey

2008-11-14T11:03:00.000-08:00

Here is my point of view on the new Canucks third jersey that will be worn against the Leafs on Saturday the 15th. This absolutely looks like a money grab attempt by the Canucks. The jerseys looks in retrospect the same with the same colors and same designs and color layout. The Stick has been moved from the shoulders to the front with a new Johnny Canuck logo on the shoulders. It is so similar to the previous jersey but yet so different that people will flood to the stores and purchase one.

So what is the point of having a third jersey that literally looks like the one they are wearing now. Like I said before, what is the point of having the same color scheme on a alternative jersey. The least they could have done is to swap the blue and the green so the base color would be green. In a way it would look like the Brampton Battalion jersey.

I love the Canucks new colors now. Just I think for a third jersey they could have done something more unique and different than what they have. It is a third jersey that would be worn 15 times only. Remember the skate logo and the red third jersey. Although that wasn't the best looking jersey in Canucks history, it was at least DIFFERENT.
I really am quite disappointed by the Canucks third jersey. Edmonton has the best third jersey so far in my opinion. I wouldn't even mind seeing the Canucks in the old flying V jerseys or maybe even the skate logo like the 93-94 cup run. A 15 year tribute to that team with the Linden jersey retirement this season would have been perfect.

Where is Brian Burke heading

2008-11-12T11:07:00.000-08:00

The Anaheim Ducks annouced Bob Murray as the new General Manager of the Ducks this afternoon.
Brian Burke is NOT getting fired, but in a way, the organization is doing a shakeup and solidify/cement their future. It is the inevitable that Brian Burke will be leaving Anaheim soon so both sides are starting to do damage control for that inescapable day.

Brian Burke will be a special consultant of the Ducks while Bob Murray is the new GM.
I think this is a way for both sides to save face. Brian Burke not getting fired but as a senior advisor he can do anything he wants and sign with another team as GM whenever he wants.

Brian Burke and the Ducks:

Now lets look back at Brian Burke and his legacy and time in Anaheim. He was hired in 2005 taking over for Bryan Murray. He has a combined record of 138-74-34 since 2005. Lost in the first round and third round along with a Stanley Cup win, the Ducks have been a successful team under Burke.
The Andy McDonald trade is definitely a black mark on his resume along with the Bertuzzi signing as well as the Morrison signing.

Many would argue Burke didnt do much in Anaheim. He was lucky with the Pronger fallout with Edmonton and lured Scott Niedermeyer to have him play with his brother. He basically inherited a team built by Bryan Murray and he just reaped the benefits.
I would say Brian Burke is an admirable General Manager who sticks up for his players and is intelligent enough to run a successful hockey team. What he did in Vancouver by rebuilding the franchise was obviously not a fluke, but what he left for Dave Nonis was pretty crappy.

What now for Burkey:

From what it looks like now, he is heading to Toronto. The fit is right with him and Ron Wilson to keep the media honest and there is nothing for him to lose there. A team in turmoil can only go up. It is going to be a new era in MLSE with Brian Burke in Toronto.
Everybody thinks Brian Burke is this super General Manager that is going to turn Toronto around. Cliff Fletcher is doing a great job already, and what can Brian Burke do that is so different. The Leafs are rebuilding. No matter what, it is going to take time. Nonetheless, most likely Burke is heading to Toronto but there are also many teams wanting his service. So the question is, Where is Brian Burke going? Rumors have it that Ottawa is also interested. Although Ottawa is struggling, I don't think Bryan Murray needs to be replaced. Brian Burke has had success taking over a Bryan Murray's team (Anaheim) and winning a Stanley Cup with it, so why not try it out again. I still think it is highly unlikely for Burke to head to Ottawa.
Where else, Chicago? Boston? Toronto? Rangers?
1. Toronto
2. Chicago
3. Ottawa
4. Rangers
3. Boston

Read about the Brian Burke coverage on TSN here.

NHL Third Jerseys

2008-11-11T22:46:00.000-08:00

Many NHL teams are introducing new 3rd jerseys this season with the Canucks revealing their long awaited one on November 15th against the Leafs. This is another chance for the money hungry NHL to dig into the pockets of die-hard fans and earn that extra revenue for the league.
Are these 3rd jerseys really necessary? No.
Are they going to sell? Yes.
Is the whole point of the jerseys to grab more money? Yes.

Just in time for Christmas, the Canucks organization has been very tight lipped about the yet to release jersey. Speculations has mounted throughout the Vancouver area wondering what they look like and with a few more sleeps we are about to see it.

Canucks third Jersey:
Rumours have been swirling on the looks of this new third jersey with supposedly leaked pictures circulating the world wide web.
This one on the left is the one that was supposedly "leaked." I really doubt this is the Canucks 3rd jersey. For a 3rd jersey, there has got to be a bigger change than this. This looks like a fuse of the current jersey and the third jersey we had few years back. It is also basically the classic stick jersey with Johnny Canuck on the shoulders. My prediction is something in Green. The main color will be Green with blue and white as a compliment. Miss 604 has posted this green one which I think is a lot closer to the actual jersey than the leaked one.

Problems with 3rd Jerseys:
I personally think it is quite ridiculous that the NHL is rolling out new jerseys left and right just to sell their merchandise and create this "brand" behind the teams. I'm sorry, but the closest thing to the legendary NY Yankees logo in the NHL is the Toronto Maple Leafs leaf. These teams have always kept their traditional logo instead of flip flopping around like many teams trying to make that extra buck. The debate now is, should a team stick to a logo with nostalgia and history and build a brand around this history.. OR.. continue to pump out logos that changes every few years and gets the casual fans confused. Look at the Red Wings, Montreal, and Leafs. They never make drastic changes to their jerseys and these jerseys are classic. No one ever complains about it. But now I am a little skeptical purchasing a Canucks jersey knowing far too well that in a few years it will be out of date. What is the Canucks logo now anyways. The hardcore hockey fans would know, but for the fans down south, is it the skate? the stick? the V? the whale?
The NHL should really have their teams stick to one logo and work around this logo. This is not a way to brand their logo by switching it every so often. I am not surprised that the NHL is fifth in licensed product sales in North American Sports Organization. They are behind NFL, MLB, NBA, and NASCAR. WTF? NASCAR?
I don't mind the Oilers 3rd jersey changing the color scheme but always keeping the classic logo. That logo is their symbol, why change it. Canucks should keep the stick, and work with that stick for future logos. Or use the whale! Create an identity behind these logos!
To understand more about branding, visit my affiliate jibbing site on branding here.

Whats the most important position in sports

2008-11-10T20:31:00.000-08:00

I know all sports are different, but have you ever wonder which position in sport is the most crucial to a team's success? The single position that can win a championship for an organization. Here is my list:

#4 NBA-Point Guard
Unless you are Kobe Bryant and can score 81 points every game, the NBA is a team oriented game where one person cannot win every game for a team. Although the point guard controls the play and the team, that position needs all others to make their shots and rebound to be successful.

#3 NFL-Quarterback
This is a controversial selection. Many would think the quarterback would be higher ranked than this but hear me out. A quarterback is most successful when 1. the running game is working 2. the offensive line is doing their job 3. receivers running the proper routes and catching the ball. Although the quarterback is the one who sees the play, decides what to do, many factors needs to be in sync for the quarterback to succeed.
Here is another example why I think quarterbacks are overrated in the importance factor. The recent example of the Baltimore Ravens SuperBowl XXXV victory. They won solely on the backs of Ray Lewis and the Baltimore defence. Who was the Quarterback? Trent Dilfer thats who.

#2 MLB-Pitcher
Although pitchers only start once every five games, pitching in general is incredibly important to a team's success. World Series cannot be won without proper pitching. Roger Clemens, Andy Pettite, Pedro Martinez have all been dominant playoff pitchers. Look at 2001. Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling literally pitched the team to victory by starting and also relieving. With a crapy Point Guard or Quarterback, the team can still pull out a win, but without proper pitching, a team stands no chance.

#1 NHL-Goaltender
Roberto Luongo, Martin Brodeur, Patrick Roy - these elite goaltenders can put a team on their backs and carry them to victory. This is one position that can dictate a game and win a Stanley Cup. No Stanley Cup winner has ever had questionable goaltending. When looking around the league, most if not all the teams that are contenders have solid goaltending. When a goalie sucks, the team sucks - when the goalie rises, the team rises. Look at Roberto Luongo and his recent streak of 3 shutouts. When the other team can't score, they can't win. Simple as that.

Problems the Leafs will face

2008-11-10T14:21:00.000-08:00

So we all thought the Toronto Maple Leafs organization decided to rebuild the team from the bottom by dumping heavy contracts and basically throwing the season to have the chance of picking Jonathan Tavares. Bryan McCabe, Mats Sundin, Kyle Wellwood, Darcy Tucker-the old guard of the Leafs has been replaced by Hagman, Grabovski, Finger, Van Ryn, Moore, and Schenn. The new look, younger Leafs are not supposed to be this good.

Problem:
The problem now is, although still early in the season, but what if the Leafs continue to play like this throughout. Lets say they finish 9th, 10th, or maybe 8th and make the playoffs - is this really a success? The point of rebuilding is to throw your team in the gutters for a few season so you can mimic the Penguins and draft players like Crosby, Malkin, and Fleury. Finishing in the middle of the pack with a 10th or 15th pick is in essence slowing down the team and their rebuilding process. Do you really think Antropov, Grabovski, Van Ryn, and the current Leafs team have the players to build a franchise around? Next season they will continue with the mediocrity hence the cycle they have been trying to pull away from with the Sundin and McCabe era.

What can be Done:
Is there really a way to solve this problem? Ron Wilson has done a great job coaching and getting the most from the players and transforming them into a hardworking, in-your-face type of team. Its not like he can start telling the players to throw in the towel. Lets face it, this current team is not going to be on top of the Eastern Conference anytime soon, sooo... what now Toronto. Hard work can always win you some games, but maybe a little more than they wish and a little less than being an elite team. They are in a tough spot. This is neither rebuilding nor an attempt at a Stanley Cup, so being in the middle of the pack is the worst scenario for this organization.
I think there is two things the team can do.

1. Think this is a start of something good and start trading for players that will help the team. Players with potential that can also be built around with. Instead of taking the draft pick route, pickup good young players and sign franchise players in the off-season and speed up the rebuilding process. The team has an identity now, so build around the identity instead of players.

2. Continue with the original plan of draft picks and start dumping players whos stock has risen from the beginning of the season. Antropov, Ponikarovsky, Kubina, and get some draft picks. Literally throw the season away and load up on draft picks.

The mediocrity of the Leafs Oranization has been a constant for too long. We are seeing the old leafs in the team this year just with new players, new coach, and a new playing style. The expectation has been lowered so it seems all good and rosy now, but if looking into the future, this is the worst case scenario for the organization. Something has to be done soon, or the Stanley Cup drought will continue in Toronto for another 40 years.

What if the Patriots won the Super Bowl with Matt Cassel

2008-11-09T19:30:00.000-08:00

Imagine the improbable. The headline: Patriots win the Superbowl with Matt Cassel.
On September 7, 2008, the dream of Patriots winning the Superbowl was torn away by Bernard Pollard along with Brady's anterior cruciate ligament and his medial collateral ligament. The nightmare of Patriot's fan became a reality, Brady was done for the season. Just two games prior (referencing back to the 07-08 season) Patriots was on top of the world. With a perfect season, awaiting to play the unlikely New York Giants in the Superbowl, and basically broke every offensive record in the books. That all seemed so far away on September 7th with Brady hurt lying on the ground screaming and grabbing his knees.

Fast forwarding to present day. Patriots still has an impressive record on the back of an unlikely source, Matt Cassel. The question is, what happens to the Patriots, Matt Cassel, and Tom Brady if they pull off a Superbowl win this season. Don't laugh now, but it really is a possibility. A little far-fetched, but not impossible. Brady has had a couple setbacks from infections that has led to more surgery so maybe the Patriots wouldn't want to rush him back for the beginning of next season. Maybe trade away Cassel? Some teams might think hes a legitimate starting quarterback so in that case there is no point keeping Cassel behind Brady when instead they can receive a leigitmate commodity back for him. Maybe Boston should immediately have a statue outside Gillete Stadium to honor Bill Bellichick. What I know for sure is for the Pats to sit/trade/release/dump Brady in favor of Cassel.
There are many possibilities but the Patriots are in a way, surprising everybody sticking with Cassel and doing as well as they are.

Keep in mind I am speaking of the Pats winning the Superbowl. Even if they don't win this season, if Cassel has an incredibly successful season which leads to a playoff win or two, these scenarios can still be played.

Tragedy for promising rookies

2008-11-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

This has been a catastrophic year for the NHL and their prominent rookies. Luc Bourdon and Alexei Cherepanov, both first round picks had their lives cut short unpredictably from accidents that arguably, could have been prevented.

Alexei Cherepanov:
The death of Alexei Cherepanov is an incredibly tragic one. This promising rookie for the New York Rangers was only 19yrs old with a full life ahead of him. He was suffering from chronic ischemia which was not detected and eventually led to his heart attack during a game in the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) playing for the Avangard Omsk.

Earlier this year in May, Luc Bourdon was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident. A first round pick by the Vancouver Canucks, Bourdon was a fan favourite here in Vancouver. Having won the gold medal in the World Junior Hockey Championship hosted in Vancouver, everyone was anticipating great things from this player in his career. Unfortunately, his motorcycle riding hobby cost him his life.

What can be done:
In the case of Luc Bourdon, I think NHL and the organizations need to spend time educating their young players. Teaching them that they have too much to lose to venture in these dangerous activities. I know in NHL contracts, the players are prohibited from doing certain recreational events and if caught they will be suspended or fined. I am not too sure how contracts work and if all players are under the same clause, but there should be something to prevent them from partaking in certain activities. They have too much invested in these players and they should do anything they can to make sure they are safe. Ben Roethlisberger almost lost his life to a motorcycle accident as well. This has happened too often to be ignored.

Alexei Cherepanov had an existing heart condition that was never detected during any physicals in Russia and North America. It is really amazing with the amount of tests the players go through, they missed his heart condition. David Carle had to quit hockey due to his medical condition which was detected early enough to prevent a tragedy unlike Cherepanov. If Cherepanov's condition was detected then the misfortune could have been prevented. Maybe more detailed testing? I am not an expert on the tests players go through, but obviously it was not detailed enough for them to miss Cherepanov's heart problem.

Controversies:
Now the New York Rangers are seeking compensation from the NHL to reselect their no.17 pick in the 2nd round of the 2009 NHL Draft. I haven't heard anything about the Canucks and if they want to or will proceed in asking for a compensation for Luc Bourdon. These situations are separate, but I know hockey is a business, but I can't believe the Rangers is asking for another pick. How can you ask for "compensation" for a person's death. Its not like insurance where the family receives money for a person's injury, but they are treating him as an object commodity that they wish to replace. Not cool NYRangers.
This blogger piece agrees with my thoughts on the Rangers:Cherepanov situation as he/she explains it in a different manner.

Marketing a Sports League

2008-11-08T00:32:00.000-08:00

Hey David Stern, Gary Bettman, Roger Goodell, and Bud Selig, listen to me -a nobody- on how to market your leagues.
Every league has their goods and bads. Here are the DO's and DONT's for those people out there who wants to start their own professional sports league - or something for the MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL to mull over on marketing their leagues. (keep in mind these are things that happens within the sports organically that will attract the fanfare and i dont mean marketing by advertisements and spending money. However, commissioners can do their best to guide some of these suggestions instead of preventing)

These are the goods and necessities for creating a fan-base and attractions from new fans:

Superstars:
What else is more important than having superstars in your league. These people can single handedly draw in millions of fans. Think of any league and people can name the superstars not even being an advent fan. NFL-Tom Brady. NHL-Sidney Crosby. NBA-Kobe Bryant. MLB-Derek Jeter. Look at MLS and the $250Million dollar contract to David Beckham and you can see how much they believe in the Superstar factor.

Personality:
All leagues need charismatic people. I am not necessarily talking about people that are asses but those who talk the talk and walk the walk. The ones that show emotions and entertain. NHL has Jeremy Roenick who speaks his mind which might not be popular with the league, but fans respect him for that. They might not be the superstar of the league, but just as important for a league. NFL-Chad Ocho Cinco Johnson. NBA-Rasheed Wallace.

Asses and BadBoys:
Now everybody hates these people, but they are the catalyst that starts controversies that are neither good nor bad enough to devastate the league. Terrell Owens, Sean Avery, Ron Artest, and Dennis Rodman when he was in the league. They are the ones that get the media attention, hence more coverage for the league, hence more people are intrigued by these players and the league. Any publicity is good publicity.

Now there are also those athletes that might not be the best player, but has the looks to bring in the lady fans. These players will get a notable mention, but not enough for a category.
Looking past the league and its' players, now we move onto the league and the sport itself.

Competition:
How good is a league when a team consistently dominates. Whats the point of showing up to a game when you know your team is going to lose. Sports teams are filled with bandwagoners and these people are what keeps the league running. NFL is the best example. Arguably the best league in North America, competition and the chance of your team winning is a major factor to the greatness of the league.

Record chases:
Remember the Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa chase of Roger Maris's record 61? Some people might say that this event is the single reason for reviving baseball. Everybody wants to witness a record. A story to tell the next generation. "I was alive when so and so broke this record." It acts as a symbol of being part of history and leaving your mark in history.

Marquee championships:
Two great teams with history, superstars, and flamboyancy rakes in the ratings. Look at this years World Series - Phillies VS. Rays. It was one of the worst, if not the worst rated World Series matchup in history. We had a cinderella team that had a 150:1 odds of winning at the beginning of the season making it all the way to the finals and no one cared. The lack of superstars and flamboyant players really hindered the ratings. Celtics and Lakers. There you go. That is a marquee matchup with history, superstars, and vivacious players.

Storyline:
Finally, everybody wants a storyline, a sidenote on top of the game. Maybe two teams with bad blood or controversies - anything to have fans intrigued about the sideshow that occurs during a game. Sometimes the media create a phantom storyline just to get people interested in the game. The Steve Moore and Todd Bertuzzi incident is a perfect example of a storyline. Although very negative publicity wise for the NHL, but many storylines can be created from the incident. Stories are immeasurable and scenarious aplenty, that is what fans want to see - how the story will end.

Brandon Marshall Celebration

2008-11-07T11:22:00.000-08:00

Brandon Marshall's celebration attempt to tribute Barack Obama. Do you think if he actually pulled it off will he be condemned or praised.
It all went down last night with the Broncos playing the Browns in a Thursday Night matchup of two young Quarterbacks in Brady Quinn and Jake Cutler. A detailed written enactment of what happened last night can be read here but to sum up. Marshall caught a touchdown with one minute left in the game to put his team up by 3 points. Before the game, everybody on the Broncos knew he would make a statement on national television to show respect to Barack Obama by pulling out a black and white glove from his pants to symbolize unity Barack Obama has inspired in him and Ameica. The problem is, by using a prop during a celebration, the team would be penalized 15yards and with one minute left in the game up by only 3 points, 15yards might possibly lose the game for the Broncos. So the stage is set and just when Marshall is about to pull the glove out, Brandon Stokley ran to him and convinced him not to do it for the good of the team. Eventually Marshall didn't do it, the Broncos weren't penalized 15 yards, and they won the game thanks in part to Stokley.

Now the question is, if Marshall did pull off the stunt, will he be criticized?
The presidential victory by Barack Obama is definitely historical and many people around the world and United States are emotional and inspired by the victory. I personally will not denounce him for it. I think creating a symbol of unity and show how the world has changed since the slavery days and making a political statement is more important than a football game. It is a little selfish on Marshall's part to accomplish a personal agenda by hurting the football team, but in a time like this, it is warranted and I will let him off the hook.

Caitlin Davis Fired as Pats Cheerleader

2008-11-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

For those people who doesn't know what happened, Caitlin Davis was a New England Patriots cheerleader but during a party in a dorm room, she took pictures with a drunk boy who had swastikas drawn all over him as well as the words "penis" and "I'm a Jew." It is still unclear whether she was the one who drew on the boy or the culprit was somebody else, but these pictures appeared on Facebook and the 19-year old was fired by the Pats soon after.

This all happened at Boston College where I have actually been to and at this private jesuit university, I doubt they will let her off the hook that easily. It really is a great school but you can tell by the non-sorority there, they have strict rules. This has made it to National news and I don't think this is the publicity the school wants. Anyways, back to Caitlin Davis and the rest of the people who posts inappropriate pictures on Facebook. These things come back and bite you in the ass if you are not careful. I am sure she didn't think it was a big deal, but when you are under the spotlight like that anything will be scrutinized. I am always amazed at the stuff people put on Facebook especially the ones who cannot afford to lose their reputation. Mostly these famous girls who does something crazy - then to have their pictures on the web - and pays for it after. Buck Burnette is another prime example of people putting stuff on Facebook and paying for it. He posted "all the hunters gather up, we have a #$%&er in the whitehouse" as his Facebook status after Obama's presidential victory. How can people be so stupid.
So in conclusion and to sum up. Facebook is bad. and Sucks to BU (I thought this was hilarious when I first heard it at BC (Boston College) For all you Golden Eagles out there)

Where is Sundin Going Part Deux.

2008-11-05T11:18:00.000-08:00

Another week with more speculations on the Mats Sundin return front. Everybody in the hockey world is still asking, "where is Mats Sundin going" and all the fans are wondering about the constant rumors on Mats Sundin. This week he met up with Mike Gilles while the Canucks had a roadtrip through California and I don't think anything interesting came from the meeting. But Gilles is a man of little words not giving an inch to the media and rumours, so I am wondering what was said and if Sundin showed any interest in the Canucks. He also met with Brian Burke of the Ducks since he is working out in L.A. Here is an update on the Sundin front from individual teams worth mentioning.

Vancouver Canucks:
I really am skeptical on Sundin going to the Canucks. Besides the money, which I don't think he needs, does he want to move to the West with all that travelling? Out of all the teams in the running however, I think he would help the Canucks the most. Think of this line. Wellwood, Sundin, Demitra. Or even better, Sundin, Demitra, Gaborik. That will give Heatley, Spezza, and Alfredsson as the best line in hockey. I hope it happens, but I really doubt it will. We can dream can't we.

Anaheim Ducks:
I swear if Sundin goes to the Ducks, Brian Burke has officially driven the team down to the ground. Why I say that is because they would need to trade away players to make cap room for Sundin. Remember the Andy MacDonald trade? That sure blew up in their face. Looking at their salary cap issue, I don't see anyone who they can trade away without devastating the team. Beauchemin, R. Niedermeyer, Ryan, Kunitz? Teams will line up for players like these. Morrison, Marchant, O'Donnell? No one would want these players for that price. I don't think Sundin will go to the Ducks. Maybe that is a blessing in disguise for them.

Ottawa Senators:
Even with Sundin in the lineup, its not going to fix the goaltending problem they are and will be facing. Why Ottawa, Sundin. Do you really want to ruin your Toronto reputation by joining Ottawa? They are farther away from the Stanley than New York Rangers. So why would he choose to go to Ottawa.

New York Rangers:
I still think NYR is high on the list of teams Sundin will likely end up with. Yes Salary cap issue is still a problem, but a team one step away from the Stanley Cup and the chance of playing in New York City are all great selling points. Who wouldn't want to play for the New York Rangers.

Conclusion:
I still think he will end up with Toronto. I know his house is up for sale, but I just have this feeling he is returning to TO. Especially the way the team is playing, they are not bottom dwellers like everyone thought they were going to be, so its not a total waste of him to return and strengthen his legacy of the wealthiest hockey team in the world.
Who knows. I can also see him landing with some weird team out of nowhere. New Jersey? Philadelphia? Calgary? San Jose? Detroit? A more detailed look on all the teams in the Sundin Sweepstakes.

What now for the New Jersey Devils

2008-11-04T18:45:00.000-08:00

With Martin Brodeur out for 3-4 months, the question begins for the New Jersey Devils on what they are going to do without him. Trade? Signings? Who is going to step up? How are they going to win games?
First of all, they are not going to find a replacement for Martin Brodeur. The greatest goalie of all time will not and cannot be replaced that simply. They are going to ride Kevin Weekes for the next 12-16weeks and whispers of Khabibulin going to New Jersey is just that, rumors that will not come to life.
A strong coached team and timely scoring by Parise and Gionta will keep them competitive till his return.
They are still a very good team and they are not in as much trouble as many believe they will be. I believe they will be over .500 while Brodeur is injured and continue to charge into the playoffs after his return.
Yes I said it here. They are still going to make the playoffs despite losing Brodeur for a long period of time. I can see them going out and trading for offensive power or defensive players to sure up the team from other areas of the ice instead of solely relying on the solid goaltending of Martin Brodeur like the past 15years.
What I am more disappointed in is that Brodeur will most likely not break Terry Sawchuk's NHL record of 103 shutouts but will most likely break Patrick Roy's NHL record of career wins at 551. Don't worry about the Devils though, they will be fine without Marty as I have listed here on my NHL playoff predictions.

NHL 2009 Stanley Cup Predictions

2008-11-03T19:17:00.001-08:00

We are about a month into the season and with looks at teams and their new acquistions, it is time to make a prediction on what the NHL East and West will look like come late April.
Many teams are a trade away from being either great, or put them over the hump. We now know that Mats Sundin is returning to the NHL and whichever team he chooses to land with will easily get that boost. But not considering these possibilities, here is the standing after 2460 NHL Games.

East:
1. Montreal Canadiens
2. New York Rangers
3. Tampa Bay Lightning
4. Pittsburgh Penguins
5. Buffalo Sabres
6. Washington Capitals
7. Boston Bruins
8. New Jersey Devils
Bubble teams: Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers

-NY Rangers, and Montreal Canadiens will be the class of the East throughout the season.
-Tampa Bay with a slow start to the season will pick it up with all that talent and win the South East. Too much talent on the team to be at bottom of the East.
-Pittsburgh is still a strong team but with all the losses during the off-season, they'll finish in the middle of the pack.
-Buffalo will surprise everyone this season, but with Vanek and Miller leading the team, they will be a strong team.
-Washington is a young offensively gifted team that is a year or two away from becoming the beast of the East.
-Boston Bruins is a solid team that will sneak by Philadelphia and make it into the playoffs. A team that gets little respect is actually stronger than most think.
-NJ Devils despite losing Brodeur for an extended period of time, the Devils will prevail and sneak into the playoffs on the grounds of a strong team play and Parise stepping it up

West:
1. San Jose Sharks
2. Detroit Red Wings
3. Calgary Flames
4. Anaheim Ducks
5. Chicago Black Hawks
6. Edmonton Oilers
7. Nashville Predators
8. Vancouver Canucks
Bubble teams: Dallas Stars, Minnesota Wild

-San Jose Sharks will have a strong season under a new coach and overtake Detroit as the best from the West.
-Detroit Red Wings will continue to be a dominant team, but Osgood will be their achilles heel during the playoffs.
-Calgary Flames will prevail from the North West and take the division. A strong all around team with questionable coaching will have a decent playoff run into the 2nd round.
-Anaheim Ducks is still a strong team but no longer the threat back when they won the Stanley Cup. They are neither on the rise or decline and will just stay in this position for the next few years.
-Chicago Black Hawks, a young team with Toews and Kane will surprise everyone and finish quite high in the West
-Edmonton Oilers is a fast and young team that can make the playoffs if they can rely on their goaltenders.
-Nashville is a team that continues to make the playoffs despite losing players every year.
-Vancouver Canucks is one of the bubble teams that can be great with couple trades. Offensive scoring is desparately needed but if the lineup stays as is, they will barely make the playoffs or possibly miss the playoff. However, with the addition of a couple offensive players will have them contend for the North West Title.

Final:
New York Rangers and the San Jose Sharks will play in the final with Patrick Marleau hoisting the cup over his head.

Politics and Monday Night Football (MNF)

2008-11-02T23:44:00.000-08:00

Sports and Politics background:

Barack Obama and John McCain in an interesting move, is appearing in front of millions of football fans on Monday Night Football (MNF) the night before the election hoping to sway some votes in their favor. Political Campaigning this time around has taken them on some unconventional routes to win the confidence and support of voters. Sarah Palin dropped the puck at the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers back around mid-October. Politics and sports are now more than ever intertwined as they try to create the camouflage of these politicians rooting for your favorite team thinking this will win them a vote.

Do you even care?

So the important question is, do you even care that Chris Berman is interviewing McCain and Obama? It seems like it has nothing to do with their policies or the election in general. But I guess appearing on the biggest stage in American culture, Monday Night Football, and speaking to millions of people wouldn't hurt. MNF is averaging 12.2million viewers this season. I am sure the number will be even higher come Monday night with non-traditional football fans tuning in to see whatsup.

I wonder if anybody will vote in the favor of a presidential candidate because of what they said on MNF. I would think the day before the election that all, if not majority of the people know who they are voting for. I just find the appearance on MNF by both candidates to be quite pointless.

Months of campaigning is almost to an end with the last stop at Monday Night Football. Soon enough we will find out whether those appearances on Saturday Night Live, Monday Night Football, and 30minute infomercial helped anyone with their campaigning.

NBA prediction - Lakers and Celtics Round 2

2008-11-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

Everybody wants to know who is going to be in the NBA finals come 2009 and whos' going to win it all. Lakers and Celtics again?
What else can be better for the NBA than to have two of the biggest NBA franchises from the East coast and the West coast renew their rivalry from the 80s. Bird and Johnson two decades later have been replaced by Kobe, Gasol, and Bynum VS. Garnett, Allen, and Pierce.
Remember last year the intensity Garnett, Pierce, and Allen showed hoping to win that first title. Now having won the title, I just hope they still have the same drive and hunger to repeat. Kobe still wants to prove to everyone that he can win a title without Shaq, and with a healthy Bynum and Gasol, they should be able to hold up their end of the bargain.
The season long and injuries aplenty. Disregarding outside factors such as injuries and ridiculous trades by Memphis, the two teams should be putting a huge grin on David Stern's face with another round of huge ratings from eyes across the globe.

Teams from the West hoping to dethrone the Lakers: San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets

Teams from the East hoping to dethrone the Celtics: Toronto Raptors, Cleveland Cavaliers

As Garnett would say: AAAANYTHING IS POSSIBLLLLEEEE!!!!!!!

PS. Celtics in 6

Scariest Looking Athlete

2008-11-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

With Halloween behind us now, it is obviously the time for us to look at who the scariest looking athlete is. I know everyone has their opinion, but here is my list of six. This list is not to disrespect the players but all fun and games.

#6 Greg Oden:
This rookie sensation out of Ohio State is only 20years old but looks 40. Greg "Olden" as he is often referred to on the net, not only looks old, but also has a body of a 40year old. He has been hurt all of last season and during his first game this season, he injured himself again. I wonder what he's going to look like when he's actually 40. Maybe he'll defy aging and look the same for 20 more years.

#5 Chris Bosh:
When a player has been on one team for a long time, maybe he'll start to look like the team mascot. Maybe its' the hair, but he is slowly turning into a raptor himself. Although he looks like a dinosaur now, his potential of turning into Chris Bosh again shouldn't be too hard. Just lose the dreads Chris. PS. I respect him fully with his comical postings on Youtube. Great Guy

#4 Sam Cassell:
I think his major downfall is the shape of his head. His face has been photoshopped beside many alien pictures, but I personally don't think he looks scary. I didn't say anything about weird looking, but not really scary looking. Maybe if he grows some hair it will be better? I don't know, but most of the time when referring to odd looking athletes, his name will be brought up.

#3 Mike Ricci:
Hockey players are warriors on ice. They fight and they hit, so getting nicked up with a broken nose and scratches on the face is normal. Mike Ricci has had a wonderful career in the NHL, and he has the scars to prove it. Unfortunately, many of the scars are on his face. Maybe its the long hair too, but the Fabio hair doesn't really work well on him. He once was a decent looking lad, but the wear and tear of the NHL can be seen all over his face.

#2 Ronaldinho:
I hate how this guy is on the list. With his soccer skills, it really is a shame. I don't want to spend too much time dissecting what is wrong him him, but just look at the pictures yourself and make your own conclusions. I guess in his defence, who needs the looks when you are that good at soccer. He's going to get the girls either way.

#1 Dennis Rodman:
The once badboy of the NBA. This rebounder king with his unique sense of fashion is on the list because... well his piercings, tattoos, attitude, and personality. Didn't he kick a cameraman in the nuts? He is the total package when speaking of scary.

Keys to marketing an athlete

2008-10-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

Tiger Woods will eventually become the first athlete to have earned 1 billion dollars from his winnings and endorsements, so the question is, what is the key to successfully market an athlete?
Athlete corporations is something we will have to get accustomed to since more and more athletes are being marketed by huge corporations and no longer are they just athletes, but they're a brand themselves.

So how do you market and brand an athlete?

1. Skills: What else is more important than skills. By having skills you attract fans and attention, with the attention, people would want to purchase your merchandise. According to this person, the most marketable athletes in the USA are: Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning, LeBron James, Derek Jeter, Dwyane Wade. One thing in common with these athletes. skills. Nothing beats out the natural skill of an athlete when branding and marketing a person.

2. Success: What can be better for a sports company such as Nike or Adidas to have their athlete in a giant poster holding up a championship trophy. Everyone wants to be linked to success, and the idea of conspicuous consumption where the consumers want to purchase that shoe thinking they can be just like Kobe holding up that trophy. Who wouldn't want to buy something from an athlete who is a 'winner'.

3. Sex Appeal: Now this is what I called the Anna Kournikova section. The lady who didn't win anything, but won the attention of all the marketers. Although we don't like it, but in our society, looks is everything. With looks you can get that job and in Kournikova's case, she can get millions for just looking pretty. This is the case of Sex Appeal > Success/skills. But wait, imagine the ultimate athlete who has both sex appeal and skills. His name is David Beckham.

4. Image: Image is not hard to maintain, but it can be lost very easily with a simple picture or accusation. No company would want to associate themselves with a criminal. You can have all the skills in the world, but image is the number one key to a company as well as an athlete corporation. Just look at Michael Vick. When the dog fighting scandal arose, Nike immediately sacked him not wanting to be associated to a person involved in criminal activities. Image can't make you, but it can easily break you. Without skills, success, and sex appeal you cannot receive a lucrative contract from Nike, but by having the three and not having the "image," the athlete will lose the contract immediately.

Alexander Semin of the Washington Capitals says: "I think that if you take any player, even if he is "dead wood," and start promoting him, you'll get a star." I think on a level that is true. With marketing and branding, a person can be built and hyped up just like wrestlers in the WWE, but without the above 4 qualities and attributes, it is near impossible to market and brand an athlete to an "athlete corporation."

Colts - Patriots this Sunday. Does anyone care?

2008-10-31T01:14:00.000-07:00

The Indianapolis Colts is hosting the New England Patriots this Sunday but does anyone really care anymore? Over the past few seasons, this is a marquee matchup with two football powerhouses going at it. Now we fast forward to 2008 with a 3-4 Colts and a Brady-less Pats - how interesting huh... The colts are on the decline and a Belichick's soldier-like team in the Pats without Brady can no longer hold our attention. BOOORING - what other teams are playing now.
The interest has shifted towards Peyton's little brother Eli and the defending Super Bowl champions against the loud-mouth, Jessica I can't play through a broken pinky Romo - Cowboys. The team loading up on the NFL badboys will have to do without Romo once again this weekend nursing his little pinky. Boo Hoo...
And yes, Patriots VS. the Colts has definitely lost its luster this season and possibly forever.

Where is Mats Sundin Going?

2008-10-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

As of now, it seems like Mats Sundin is returning to the NHL as he is currently on a heavy workout schedule in Los Angeles hoping to get in shape asap. The question on EVERYBODYS mind is, what team? Here are my top six teams that are interested in his service as well as having the appeal for Sundin to join. I am sure most NHL clubs wouldn't mind having Sundin but trust me, hes not going to LA or Columbus.

Montreal Canadiens:
Montreal made a hard push for him during the trade deadline last season and also the offseason by acquring his rights from the Maple Leafs. Having signed Robert Lang has basically pushed them up to the cap limit. I think in a perfect no-cap world they will and can sign Mats Sundin but with this current CBA, it is now unlikely for them to get Sundin.

Sundin Montreal bound: 4/10 - because of the possibility of winning of a Stanley Cup

Chicago BlackHawks:
This is a new team that has recently sparked some Mats Sundin rumours. They are also very close to the cap, but their advantage is that by dumping the heavy contract of Nikolai khabibulin they have cap space left to sign Mats. There are also teams interested in Khabibulin so this could very well work. The question is, would Sundin really want to play for Chicago? They are not a Stanley Cup contender yet in my opinion and I don't think Sundin can push them over the top. So would he want to go there just to help develop some future superstars? My answer is... NO

Sundin Chicago bound: 3/10 - I don't see why he wants to go Chicago, the money he can get from Vancouver, and the chance at a Stanley Cup he can get with NYR or MTL.

New York Rangers:
Another team very close to the cap, but I NYR will actually trade away players to make room for his services if he is willing to join the team. The team most likely to win the Stanley Cup on this list with the off-season addition of Markus Naslund and Wade Redden has solidified the team as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.

Sundin New York bound: 6/10 - if he wants to come back to win a Stanley Cup, NYR is his best bet. The problem is still the cap space and the issue of unloading players to make room. But if Sundin joins, think of the firepower they would have on the team.

Vancouver Canucks:
The team most likely to offer the most dough for his services. With a sub-par start to the season, Sundin would be taking a gamble on a team that is neither going up nor down. I think the Canucks are one or two forwards away from making a deep run in the playoffs especially with a solid D core and Captain Luongo in net.

Sundin Vancouver bound: 6.5/10 - If he is coming back for money as well as a chance for a Stanley Cup, Vancouver might be in the mix. The problem I see is, even with Sundin in the lineup, Vancouver still needs help with scoring. One more offensive forward would do... Gaborik anyone?

Tampa Bay Lightning:
A team that loaded up in the off-season only to not live up to the hype/expectation so far this season. I blame it on the coach. With that much firepower and a decent back-end, they should be competing near the top of the division.

Sundin Tampy Bay bound: 3/10 - Don't understand why he would want to go Tampa Bay. If they could offer him the money, then why not choose Vancouver? Doesn't seem like they are going to win the cup this year, so why not choose Rangers or Montreal? Living in the hotbed of hockey for majority of his career, does he really want to go to an area where they don't care about hockey? Tampa Bay imho is the most unlikely team for him to land with. But who knows, crazy things happen in this game.

Toronto Maple Leafs:
Now Toronto... the team raising eyebrows with their modest success so far this season. Looking to rebuild but playing a solid team game at the same time under Wilson, Toronto is proving to everyone that they're not throwing in the towel this season just to enter the Tavares sweepstakes. Nonetheless, they're still a team that is rebuilding with no true superstars on the team that plays a tough grind-it-out game everynight.

Sundin Toronto bound: 8/10 - The leader of Toronto for the past decade, I don't know if he wants to throw that all away by joining another team just to win a Stanley Cup. If so, he would've waived his no-trade clause last season. Maybe he thinks with him in the lineup, they can surprise everybody and make it in the playoffs which would definitely solidify him as one of the greatest Leaf of all time.

The possibilities are endless with every team wanting the superstar, but only one will get him. My pick is Toronto or Vancouver considering the cap issues and chance of success. The problem is I don't think he wants to throw away his legacy in Toronto for the money. My prediction is... he'll be back with the blue and white this season and the next. But who knows, maybe he'll end up in Philly or some team that is completely off the radar now. We'll have to wait and see.

Philadelphia Phillies World Champions?

2008-10-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

First of all, congratulations to the Philadelphia Phillies for their World Series win. They played hard throughout the season and with Brad Lidge closing out the games, they deserved the trophy.
I made my rant about how boring the World Series has been and I am still sticking to that. It has been one of the most boring championship in a long time and it wasn't like it was a close series to have people intrigued. I swear if Boston made it to the final, the ratings would double if not triple, and the series would be a lot closer.

Now what pisses me off is how the commentators keep saying Philadelphia Phillies world champions. They're NOT the world champions. They have got to change the name - its not the World Series when we have teams from North America competing against each other. Also United States isn't even close to being the baseball powerhouse they once were. They didn't win the Olympics, they weren't even close to winning the World Baseball Classic in 06. MLB should team up with leagues across the globe and have a REAL World Championship instead of a North America games and proclaiming themselves as the World Champions when at best, you are the North American Champions. Similar to soccer and their champions league would work. Doesn't matter what nation the players on your team is, its a championship of the club teams.
So either stop calling it the WORLD SERIES or have a real World Series.

Greg Oden career prediction

2008-10-29T00:24:00.000-07:00

Greg Oden has been plagued by injuries since his college days and now in his second year in the NBA, he has officially only played one game (as of Oct29,2008) - and he didn't even finish the game. He is injured ONCE again leaving the game with a foot injury. I think its a matter of time before he gets badly hurt and has to sit out for a prolong period of time.
His future looks bright, but with his constant injury woes, I have a feeling he'll be one of the biggest bust in NBA draft history. I know he is still young, but with his body size and frame, it is not easy to put that much pressure on your body constantly especially with the tough physical play the NBA has to offer.

Yes, I am going to say it right here right now; Greg Oden will suffer another big injury this season and having to play only a handful of games in couple of years, his skills will slowly diminish and we'll all be looking back at the once touted prospect that could've been great but due to his body limitations, he'll be a well travelled player with every team hoping to ignite the flame that once burned in Ohio State which coveted him the no.1 pick. I hope I am wrong - if healthy, he has the potential to be great.

World Series of Rain and Snooze

2008-10-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

The 2008 World Series will be one to be forgotten for MLB as well as the fans. It has been incredibly boring and amidst the lack of viewers, it is prolonged even longer with talks of a conspiracy brewed up by Bud Selig. The worst commissioner in any professional sports has been bombarded with questions to why he suspended the game, why did the game even start, why wasn't it suspended earlier etc. Some say he waited till the Tampa Bay Rays tied it up before he suspended it so he wouldn't have to crown The Phillies on a default. Imagine if the game ended because of a rain delay and they won sitting in the clubhouse, how ridiculous would MLB look. A conspiracy is a little far-fetched since no one can predict the weather (or maybe Bud Selig can) but the game shouldn't have started in the first place. This just gives the Philly fans something to complain about if they end up losing.

I'm sorry but I am actually hoping the Rays will come back and win it all. THEN we will have something to talk about, FINALLY. Philadelphia would erupt with riots, MLB will be severely criticized, Bud Selig will step down, and the 2008 World Series will be forever remembered for all the wrong reasons. Better than the current World Series that no one will remember. Screw baseball, NBA season has started.

Burton Love Snowboards controversy

2008-10-28T19:50:00.001-07:00

So Burton has released a line of snowboards called the "Love" this season and not many people are happy with it. These snowboards feature vintage playboy models skimpily dressed with their ass on the base.

Parents were the first one to speak out against this line, but now ski resorts in England and western states are joining in on the protest as well as demonstrations outside Burton headquarters in Burlington, Vt.
What I have to say is, just let it go. Do you really think with television and the internet these days, kids aren't exposed to these sort of content? The American culture is shaped by sexuality. Just read the book called The Porning of America by Carmine Sarracino and you'll understand how "Burton Love" is not the problem but the whole American culture is the problem. There are far worst things that these demonstrators should be protesting against instead of these 4 pictures on a 152cm canvas.

But don't worry all you jibbers, you are still allowed to go jibbing with these boards at various resorts, just employees are banned from using it.

World Series Rain Delay

2008-10-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

I think it is time for MLB to implement mandatory retractable roof for all new stadiums. How ridiculous is it to have a game delayed due to rain. It ruins television schedule and the fan's schedule.
I know all you traditionalist love how the cold and wind can impact the game, but I say by having a retractable roof, at least you have the option of closing it when the weather is bad.
Now Game 5 of the World Series is suspended and for the 10people who cares about the game, they would have to tune in tomorrow to watch only couple of innings of baseball. But what if the weather is still bad tomorrow? Will this boredom of a championship ever end?
Mandatory retractable roof NOW!

Vancouver Olympics 2010 Tickets

2008-10-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

So I just recently got an email from the Olympics 2010 website reminding me of the upcoming deadline to purchase my tickets. I don't know of many of you know this, but the ticketing system is done on a random draw bases instead of first come first serve.
If the ticket request for an event is below the capacity seatings, you will automatically be given the tickets, but for events that are high in demand, a draw would be done for all those who requested the tickets.

Priority goes to Canadian residents who selects the events to have your name in the draw before November 7th 2008. This system is done in order to prevent scalpers from loading up on the tickets and selling it for more value.
Ticket priorities goes out to Canadians and for international (incl U.S.A) you have to purchase it through your own National Olympic Committee.
Here is the list of events that are HDS (High Demand session)

- Alpine skiing (Men Downhill)
- Opening Ceremony
- Snowboard (Women's halfpipe)
- Snowboard (Men's halfpipe)
- Ice Hockey (Women)
- Ice Hockey (Men)
- Speed Skating (Men's 5000m Final)
- Figure Skating (Pair's Free Program)
- Figure Skating (Pair's Short Program)
- Figure Skating (Men's Short Program)
- Figure Skating (Men's Free Program)
- Figure Skating (Ice dance Original/Free Dance)
- Short Track Speed skating (Men/Women)
- Speed Skating (Men's/Women's - 5000m/1500m/1000m/500m)
- Speed Skating (Men/Women Team Pursuit)
- Freestyle Skiing (Men/Women Aerials Final)
- Curling (Men's/Women's Gold Medal)
- Alpine Skiing (Women's downhill)

Click here for the Vancouver 2010 Games Tickets

World Zzzeries

2008-10-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

Mark my words, the Philadelphia Phillies will be the World Series Champion if not tonight, then in game six in Tampa Bay. I don't see the Rays coming back as their improbable run will come to an end soon. The question is, does anyone even care?
The World Series this fall has been a snooze. No Red Sox Nation or the Evil Empire Yankees to spice up the storylines but instead we have a Cinderella story in the Tampa Bay Rays and the boring Phillies.
People of Philadelphia has been searching for a possible parade route before they even won anything, but rest assured, the parade will happen eventually especially against the Rays that are obviously down and out.

Nonetheless, I know Joe Carter broke the hearts of Philadelphia fans in 93', but party on Philly, even though you have bored us all to death this fall, you deserve the near 30-year wait.
Brad Lidge, Ryan Howard, and Jimmy Rollins has carried this team for years and they deserve the championship.