Back In The Times

The New York Times blog solicited my input yet again, trying to get a Ranger fan's perspective on the upcoming Hudson River battle. Please check it out here! You can clearly see that I give a fair analysis of how we will win, rather than the clouded delusions of John Fischer from In Lou We Trust, who somehow thinks that going 1-7 against us this year is meaningless. He also mentioned the "Rock The Red" campaign that the Devils are pitching but if I were them, I wouldn't want to associate myself with the Bloods so deep in the ghetto ...

And, on a lighter note, I might as well put my other predictions out there, if only to be proven wrong in a few weeks:

EAST
(1) Montreal vs (2) Boston: Montreal in seven. This Original Six matchup should be quite the battle as the Habs like to play offense while the Bruins play the Devils' defense.

(2) Pittsburgh vs (7) Ottawa: Pittsburgh in six. Ottawa has been reeling of late. Neither team has solid goaltending but the Pens have a better offense as Sens star Daniel Alfredsson is out with an injury.

(3) Washington vs (6) Philadelphia: Washington in five. Marty Biron really isn't good and Alexander Ovechkin is. The Caps are the hottest team in the league right now and unless the wheels fall off in the week they have to prepare, they should romp.

(4) New Jersey vs (5) NY Rangers: Rangers in six. MAAAAAAAARRRRRRTTTYYYY, MAAAAAAAARRRRRRTTTYYYY, MAAAAAAAARRRRRRTTTYYYY. Sean Avery will beat you and bag both your wife and sister in law!

WEST
(1) Detroit vs (8) Nashville: Nashville in six. I love Detroit, but they have the bad habit of falling apart after romping through the regular season. The Predators are entirely underrated thanks to their coach, Barry Trotz. He has made them a contender even without any star power, and even without the injured Jed Ortmeyer.

(2) San Jose vs (7) Calgary: San Jose in five. The Sharks are awesome to watch nowadays. Jeremy Roenick deserves a good chance at the Cup and this team will give it to him. As classy as Jarome Iginla is, he is just one man and he can't carry the Flames to victory alone.

(3) Minnesota vs (6) Colorado: Colorado in seven. This series should shape up to be one helluva battle as the teams have had some bad blood of late. Watch out for the Boogyman!!

(4) Anaheim vs (5) Dallas: Anaheim in six. Dallas has a lot of players that I like but Anaheim has been showing the sheer of domination lately that took them to last year's Cup.

 Back In Time: A Journey Through Hockey's Rich History

Hockey, often referred to as "the fastest game on Earth," has a history that is as rich and storied as the sport itself. As we delve back in time to explore the origins, evolution, and memorable moments of hockey, we gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved game. In this article, we'll take a journey through the annals of hockey history, from its humble beginnings to the modern-day spectacle we know and love.

FAQ 1: When Was Hockey Invented?

Hockey's exact origins are a subject of debate, but it is widely believed to have originated in Canada in the late 19th century. One of the earliest recorded games resembling ice hockey was played in Montreal in 1875. Over time, the sport evolved with the establishment of formal rules and the introduction of professional leagues.

The Early Years: Birth of a Sport

Early Equipment: In the early days, hockey players didn't wear protective gear like helmets or pads. They used simple wooden sticks, and the first pucks were often frozen cow dung.

Amateur Beginnings: Hockey was initially an amateur sport, played for the love of the game. Many early teams and leagues were comprised of local enthusiasts.

Formation of the NHL: The National Hockey League (NHL) was founded in 1917 and marked the beginning of professional hockey. It brought together teams from Canada and the United States and set the stage for the modern era.

FAQ 2: Who Are the Legends of Hockey?

Hockey has been graced by legendary players whose contributions left an indelible mark on the sport:

Wayne Gretzky: Often called "The Great One," Gretzky is the NHL's all-time leading scorer. His vision, playmaking ability, and scoring prowess are unparalleled.

Bobby Orr: Considered one of the greatest defensemen in history, Orr revolutionized the position with his offensive skills and mobility.

Gordie Howe: "Mr. Hockey" was known for his scoring ability, toughness, and longevity. He played professionally well into his 50s.

Maurice Richard: A trailblazer, Richard was the first player to score 50 goals in a season. His impact on the Montreal Canadiens and Quebec culture is legendary.

Defining Moments in Hockey History

The Summit Series (1972): The Canada-USSR Summit Series was a defining moment in international hockey. Canada's victory in a hard-fought series showcased the passion and skill of the game.

The "Miracle on Ice" (1980): The underdog United States team's victory over the heavily favored Soviet Union at the Winter Olympics captured the hearts of a nation and epitomized the spirit of hockey.

The Wayne Gretzky Trade (1988): Gretzky's shocking trade from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings not only changed the landscape of the NHL but also helped popularize the sport in the United States.

FAQ 3: How Has the Game Evolved?

Hockey has undergone significant changes over the years:

Expansion: The NHL has expanded from its original six teams to 32 franchises, reflecting the sport's growing popularity.

Rule Changes: Rules have evolved to enhance player safety and encourage more offense. The introduction of the shootout and the removal of the two-line pass offside rule are notable examples.

Global Reach: Hockey has become a truly international sport, with players from countries around the world competing at the highest levels.

Hockey's journey through time is a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport. From its humble beginnings on frozen ponds to the international spectacle that it is today, hockey has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The legends, moments, and changes in the game have all contributed to its rich history. As we look back in time, we gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions and innovations that continue to make hockey one of the most exhilarating sports on the planet. So, whether you're cheering for your favorite NHL team or playing a pickup game with friends, remember that you're part of a tradition that spans generations—a tradition that is, and always will be, truly timeless.