Well, That's A Thought

I don't know if you guys ever read the Google links on the right of this page but at this moment there is a link to an article in Slate on how the NHL should adopt a relegation system similar to that of British soccer.

It is an interesting concept but flawed nonetheless. The writer, Nate DiMeo, makes a good point in saying that hockey's popularity would likely grow with a smaller league. There would be a higher concentration of talent, and the markets that were left would be stronger after not having to prop up the weaker ones.

However, Mr. DiMeo goes on to say that television ratings would improve as the battle against relegation to a lower league would increase interest in losing teams. It may, but only if they came down to one final game, and that game didn't coincide with any big NBA games or the beginning of baseball season. Oh yeah, and it wasn't on Versus.

He believes that 'minor' teams that would battle for promotion into the NHL would "be going crazy." Unfortunately he used WHL powerhouse Vancouver Giants as an example even though they are a junior level team, so that is completely flawed. But he also threw Hersey and Providence out there - AHL cities that physically can't accommodate 15,000 fans. Granted there are some that could (Bring Back The Whale!) but most could not and let's face it, its hard enough to get a draw when you are playing a city like Atlanta, could you imagine Manchester, New Hampshire? Try selling a really small market like Wilkes Barre, PA to corporate sponsors. It just doesn't work.

As I mentioned in a post this summer, one of my solutions to improve the league would be to move the struggling teams to Canada. There are big corporate dollars in our neighbor to the north, granted many not as big as the ones in the states, but something is better than nothing.

I would rather the NHL sign a big deal with Canadian National or RBC than a nickle and dime contract with Southwest Airlines or whomever. Home Depot and McDonalds already are Canada-only sponsors of the league and imagine the increase in their deals if the NHL put another two teams north of the border (say, a team in Hamilton and one back in Winnipeg). Not to mention the draw for multinational corporations if the NHL ever moved globally.

So back to the original point, a relegation system just wouldn't fit the NHL today. There is no way the owners or (more importantly) the sponsors would allow team contraction and relegation. Yes, it would make for a better game on the ice, but it wouldn't help the flawed television product or the all-important bottom line.

EDIT - Wow was I out of it while at work yesterday, apparently this topic has been covered in a few places with BMR thinking it isn't that bad an idea and Mirtle calling it "compelling".

ChatGPT

Title: "Well, That's A Thought: Exploring the Power of Ideas and Innovation"

Introduction

Throughout history, humanity has been propelled forward by the power of ideas and innovation. Whether it's a groundbreaking scientific discovery, a revolutionary technological advancement, or a fresh perspective on a timeless problem, ideas have the potential to shape the world in profound ways. In this article, we will delve into the importance of ideas and innovation, explore their impact on society, and answer some frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role ideas play in our lives.

Part I: The Seeds of Innovation

The Creative Spark

Innovation often begins with a spark of creativity. It's that moment when a new idea, no matter how unconventional or far-fetched, takes root in the mind of an individual. This creative spark can be triggered by curiosity, necessity, or simply a desire to improve upon the status quo.

The Power of Imagination

Imagination is a potent force in generating ideas. The ability to visualize possibilities beyond the constraints of the present is what drives inventors, artists, and thinkers to push the boundaries of what is known and achievable.

Part II: The Impact of Ideas

Advancing Science and Technology

Some of the most significant leaps in human progress have come from scientific and technological innovations. Think of the discovery of electricity, the invention of the internet, or the development of life-saving medical treatments—all of these advancements began as ideas that transformed the way we live.

Social and Cultural Change

Ideas also have the power to bring about social and cultural change. The civil rights movement, for instance, was fueled by the idea of equality and justice for all. Art, literature, and music have similarly challenged societal norms and provoked thought-provoking discussions.

Part III: The Creative Process

The Birth of an Idea

The creative process varies from person to person, but it often involves a cycle of inspiration, incubation, and execution. Inspiration can come from anywhere—nature, conversations, books, or personal experiences.

Collaboration and Iteration

Ideas flourish in collaborative environments where diverse perspectives can be shared and explored. Iteration, or refining an idea through multiple iterations, is a critical part of the creative process.

Part IV: The Challenges of Innovation

Overcoming Resistance

Innovation is not without its challenges. New ideas can face resistance, skepticism, and pushback from those who are comfortable with the status quo. Convincing others of the value of an idea can be a daunting task.

Failure and Resilience

Innovation often involves risk, and failure is a natural part of the process. However, failure can also be a stepping stone to success, as it provides valuable lessons and insights.

Part V: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let's address some frequently asked questions about ideas and innovation:

1. Are some people naturally more creative than others?

Creativity is a skill that can be nurtured and developed. While some individuals may have a predisposition for creative thinking, anyone can enhance their creative abilities through practice and exposure to new experiences.

2. How can organizations foster a culture of innovation?

To foster innovation, organizations can encourage open communication, reward and recognize innovative efforts, provide resources for experimentation, and embrace a willingness to take calculated risks.

3. Can innovation be taught?

Yes, innovation can be taught. Many educational programs and workshops focus on fostering creativity and innovation by teaching techniques for problem-solving, brainstorming, and design thinking.

4. What role does failure play in the innovation process?

Failure is often an essential part of innovation. It allows individuals and organizations to learn from mistakes, refine their ideas, and ultimately improve their chances of success.

5. Are all innovative ideas universally accepted eventually?

Not all innovative ideas are universally accepted, and some may face ongoing resistance. However, the acceptance of innovative ideas often depends on factors such as their potential benefits, societal norms, and the persistence of those championing them.

Conclusion

"Well, that's a thought" is a phrase that encapsulates the essence of human progress. Ideas, no matter how humble or ambitious, have the power to change the world. They drive innovation, challenge the status quo, and shape the course of history. As we celebrate the creative spirit that resides within each of us, we recognize that the seeds of innovation can be found in every corner of our lives. Whether you're an inventor, an artist, a scientist, or simply a dreamer, remember that your ideas have the potential to inspire, transform, and leave a lasting impact on the world.