Unfortunately the "him" in my headline is not Nik Zherdev. It's Glen Sather.
Giving Glen the ability to negotiate contracts, especially long-term deals, is like giving the keys to a 95 year old man who can't see over the steering wheel. He may have once had the ability to drive, but that day has long past and now he can't even see the road.
Talking to Z is a lot more reasonable than, say, handing a six year deal to an underachieving 31 year old defenseman who was ran out of his last city. But the only thing that mercurial Zherdev has proven thus far in his tenure as a Ranger is that he is unreliable. To hand a player like that a long term deal is simply dangerous. Yes, Z could turn into a game-breaking skill forward like Ilya Kovalchuk. He could also get bored of the NHL in a year or two and run home like Alexei Morozov. Or he could simply turn into an albatross around the neck of the Rangers like ... I donno, Scott Gomez.
Big money, long-term contracts should be reserved home grown products who have bright futures. They should not be handed to players heading into the downside of their careers (Redden), players who have never averaged a point per game (Chris Drury), players who have no heart (Gomez) or players who were other teams' problems (Z).
While the thought of allowing a player with Z's talent slip away is a little saddening, as an RFA the Rangers would get draft picks in return. Then again, if he would be so inclined to come back on a one or two year stint at a reasonable rate then, sure, bring him back. But to just throw cash blindly at players of dubious talent/character/motivation is just foolish.
Glen, please, put the pen down and step away from the desk. Slowly, slowly, slowly ...
"Just Make Him Stop!" - The Story of Iconic Sports Chants
Sports are filled with passionate fans who are not only known for their unwavering support but also for their creative and sometimes humorous chants. These chants have become an integral part of the sports experience, serving as a way for fans to rally behind their teams, taunt their rivals, and create an electric atmosphere in stadiums and arenas. One of the most famous and enduring sports chants is "Just Make Him Stop!" In this article, we'll explore the origins, significance, and some other iconic sports chants that have left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
The Birth of "Just Make Him Stop!"
The "Just Make Him Stop!" chant is closely associated with baseball, particularly Major League Baseball (MLB). It originated as a response to dominant pitching performances by opposing teams' pitchers. When a pitcher was in the zone, shutting down the home team's batters and making it look easy, frustrated fans would often erupt in the chant. The chant was not only an expression of exasperation but also a plea to the home team to find a way to break the opposing pitcher's rhythm and end the domination.
The simplicity of the chant made it accessible to fans of all ages, and it quickly caught on in ballparks across the country. It's a testament to the universal frustration that sports fans can feel when their team is struggling and the opposing player seems unstoppable.
The Legacy of "Just Make Him Stop!"
While "Just Make Him Stop!" may not be as well-known as some other sports chants, it holds a special place in the hearts of baseball fans. It encapsulates the roller-coaster of emotions that come with being a sports fan—the hope, the frustration, and the desire for a turnaround.
In many ways, the chant reflects the essence of sports itself. It's a reminder that no matter how dominant a player or team may seem, there's always the potential for an upset or a comeback. It captures the never-say-die attitude that defines sports fandom.
Iconic Sports Chants from Around the World
"Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole!" - This chant is commonly heard in soccer stadiums around the world. It's a simple and rhythmic expression of joy and support for the home team. Fans clap their hands and sing "Ole" repeatedly, creating an electric atmosphere.
"We Will Rock You!" - Popularized by Queen's hit song, this chant has become a staple at sporting events, especially in the United States. Fans stomp their feet and clap their hands in unison while singing along, creating an intimidating atmosphere for the opposing team.
"Seven Nation Army" - The White Stripes' song "Seven Nation Army" has been adopted by sports fans worldwide. The distinctive guitar riff is chanted by fans in stadiums, creating a powerful and unifying sound.
"I Believe That We Will Win!" - This chant, often abbreviated as "I believe," is a call-and-response chant used to boost team morale. Fans shout "I believe that we will win!" repeatedly, with each iteration growing louder and more fervent.
"He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" - This chant has been used in various sports to create suspense and anticipation. As a player or team is closing in on victory, fans start singing the hymn "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," building excitement.
Sports chants like "Just Make Him Stop!" are more than just words shouted from the stands; they are a reflection of the deep emotional connection fans have with their teams. These chants serve as a way to unite fans, create a sense of belonging, and add to the spectacle of sporting events. Whether they're humorous, rhythmic, or passionate, sports chants are an enduring tradition that enriches the sports experience for fans around the world. So, the next time you hear "Just Make Him Stop!" or any other iconic sports chant, remember that it's a celebration of the highs and lows, the triumphs and challenges, and the unwavering dedication of sports fans everywhere.
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