Yes folks, Marek Malik is back.
After receiving no interest - at least publicly - during the summer Malik was signed by the Bolts a few weeks back and will step back on the Garden ice on the blueline for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
I will be honest in that I have not seen much of him since he went south (har, har) outside of his mediocre performance against the Devils tonight. Here is how he has done game-by-game since he has returned:
*Game 1 vs San Jose: 14:27 of ice time, -1, minor for interference that the Sharks scored a power play goal on to make it 2-0 (they won 3-0).*Game 2 vs Toronto: 15:13, +1, minor for interference that the Maple Leafs scored the game-winning power play goal on in a 3-2 win.
*Game 3 vs Buffalo: 17:36, +2 - Bolts win 5-2.
*Game 4 vs Ottawa: 16:09, even, minor for tripping that the Senators scored the first goal of the game on but the Bolts went on to win 3-2 in a shootout.
*Game 5 vs New Jersey: 19:08, even - Bolts lose 4-3 in a shootout.
Ah, the more things change, the more they stay the same. New jersey, same Malik. Sasquatch gets good ice time, ends up on the plus side of the ledger, makes bad decisions with the puck, takes bad penalties and is softer than Mister Stay Puft. However, he entirely awful; he does take advantage of his size by getting his limbs and stick in passing lanes and he has the knack of finding chemistry with talented players.
It is that ability that got him the plus/minus numbers that everyone points out in conversations about the oversized Czech. Malik was +58 in two seasons with Vancouver, back when our very own Markus Naslund was dominating the NHL alongside a saner Todd Bertuzzi and a healthy Brendan Morrison. In the three seasons with the Rangers after the lockout, Malik was +67 playing almost exclusively behind that Jaeger guy. Malik saw a good amount of power play time with Jagr's unit (when Straka wasn't put across from Rozy) and yet in 185 regular season Ranger games he had four power play points. In fact, Malik rarely puts up points but does get the pluses.
And more power to him for doing that. I have wasted many pixels on this blog pointing out Malik's various shortcomings but, as I put on his Hockey-Reference page, I wish him the best of luck far away from the Garden. Let's face it folks, he will be a part of Ranger highlight reels for as long as they play hockey in New York ...
But for as much as I joined in the cheering for that goal on that amazing Saturday night, I will still greet him tomorrow the way I bid him adieu:
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!
M! A! L-I-K, MALIK YOU SUCK!
"Bigfoot to Appear in New York: A Deep Dive into the Mythical Legend"
The legend of Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, has captured the imaginations of people around the world for centuries. Described as a towering, ape-like creature that roams the forests of North America, Bigfoot has remained one of the most enduring and elusive cryptids in modern folklore. The idea of Bigfoot making an appearance in New York may seem far-fetched, but the legend has a way of transcending boundaries. In this article, we will delve into the world of Bigfoot, explore the fascination surrounding this mythical creature, and investigate its purported sightings in the state of New York.
Unraveling the Myth of Bigfoot
Who or What Is Bigfoot?
Bigfoot is a cryptid—an animal whose existence has been suggested but not proven by scientific evidence. Descriptions of Bigfoot vary, but common features include a tall, bipedal creature covered in hair, with enormous feet and a distinctive, foul odor. The creature is typically associated with remote wilderness areas, making it challenging to verify its existence.
Historical Origins
The roots of the Bigfoot legend can be traced back to Indigenous peoples' folklore in North America. Various tribes have their own names and stories for these elusive beings. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that Bigfoot gained widespread attention and a name through various sightings, reports, and alleged evidence.
Bigfoot Sightings in the United States
Iconic Encounters
Bigfoot sightings have been reported in numerous U.S. states, with the Pacific Northwest being a hotspot. The most famous Bigfoot sighting occurred in 1967 when Roger Patterson and Robert Gimlin captured a short film in Bluff Creek, California, purportedly showing a female Bigfoot walking near a creek.
Credibility and Skepticism
While there have been thousands of reported sightings over the years, skepticism remains high. Critics argue that the lack of concrete evidence, such as a Bigfoot carcass or DNA samples, casts doubt on the existence of such a creature. Many supposed pieces of evidence, like hair samples and footprints, have been inconclusive.
Bigfoot in New York State
Unexpected Sightings
New York may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of Bigfoot, but it has had its share of reported encounters. These sightings often occur in the more remote and wooded areas of the state, such as the Adirondack Mountains and the Catskill Mountains.
Notable New York Encounters
One notable New York encounter took place in 1976 when a group of campers in the Adirondacks claimed to have seen a large, ape-like creature. In another instance, a series of loud, unidentifiable sounds were reported echoing through the woods in the Catskills.
Investigating Sightings
Organizations and individuals known as cryptozoologists have dedicated themselves to investigating Bigfoot sightings and other cryptid reports. They conduct field investigations, collect evidence, and interview witnesses to piece together the puzzle of these mysterious creatures.
The Pop Culture Phenomenon
Influence on Media
Bigfoot's cultural impact extends beyond reported sightings. The legend has permeated various forms of media, from books and documentaries to television shows and films. Iconic examples include the movie "Harry and the Hendersons" and the television series "Finding Bigfoot."
Merchandise and Tourism
Bigfoot has also become a marketable icon, with merchandise ranging from T-shirts and action figures to Bigfoot-themed tours and attractions in areas known for sightings. These endeavors capitalize on the enduring fascination with the cryptid.
FAQs About Bigfoot
1. Is there any scientific evidence to support the existence of Bigfoot?
Despite numerous sightings and anecdotal evidence, there is no conclusive scientific evidence to confirm the existence of Bigfoot. The lack of a verified carcass, DNA, or definitive physical evidence has left the subject open to skepticism.
2. What could explain the reported sightings of Bigfoot?
Several explanations have been proposed for Bigfoot sightings, including misidentifications of known animals, hoaxes, and psychological factors. Some believe that some sightings might be attributed to the presence of bears or other large mammals.
3. Are there any ongoing efforts to find or prove the existence of Bigfoot?
Yes, there are ongoing efforts by cryptozoologists, researchers, and enthusiasts to find and prove the existence of Bigfoot. These efforts include field investigations, the collection of potential evidence, and interviews with witnesses.
4. What are the cultural origins of Bigfoot?
Bigfoot's cultural origins are deeply rooted in the folklore of Indigenous peoples in North America. Different tribes have their own stories and names for similar creatures. The modern term "Bigfoot" gained prominence in the mid-20th century.
5. Why do people continue to be fascinated by Bigfoot?
The fascination with Bigfoot can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the mystery surrounding the creature, the thrill of the unknown, and the enduring appeal of cryptids and folklore. Additionally, the idea of undiscovered creatures captures the imagination and sense of wonder in many people.
The legend of Bigfoot continues to captivate our imaginations, transcending geographical boundaries and appearing even in unexpected places like New York State. While there remains no conclusive scientific evidence to prove the existence of Bigfoot, the fascination with this mythical creature endures. Whether Bigfoot is a product of folklore, hoaxes, or genuine encounters with an unknown creature, one thing is certain: the legend of Bigfoot will continue to intrigue and inspire generations to come, making it a truly enduring mystery in the world of cryptids.
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