CBC-Sports

Much ado about nothing

October 20, 2009 02:55 PM | Posted by   Scott Morrison  

A few random thoughts on several things happening in the world of hockey so far this week… BLAH, BLAH... The allegation that there is a bias against Quebec-born players may have some basis in data, but it otherwise still seems like a total reach. It’s like the old accountant’s adage: give me your numbers and let me know what you want them to say.

In other words, you can take statistics and arrive at any conclusion you want, especially if you choose to ignore other contributing factors. Fact is, hockey has become a global game with more Europeans playing, which affects the number of North American players, not just Quebecers, that wind up in the NHL.

Beyond that, immigration has affected the numbers playing hockey in Canada, not just Quebec, and that has an impact on the overall NHL numbers as well. In major centers especially, cities such as Toronto and Montreal, there is such great ethnic diversity that not all are involved in hockey at the grass roots level, which is why both the Maple Leafs and Canadiens have dedicated a lot of time and resources to cultivate those new audiences.

It all seems like much ado about nothing.

MORE QUEBEC: Speaking of Quebec, as in Quebec City, it would be great if they are able to build a new arena and secure an owner with deep pockets and ultimately get back into the NHL. There are many in the NHL that would like to see a return of the Nordiques.

But the question remains, is that market rich enough and deep enough to sustain long term? Strictly from a sentimental side, having that Quebec-Montreal rivalry back would be fabulous.

MAJOR NEWS: It feels like it has flown under the radar a wee bit, but New Jersey Devils star Martin Brodeur recorded a shutout on Saturday night - the 102nd of his career. That puts him just one behind the legendary Terry Sawchuk for the all-time record.

Barring the unforseen, Brodeur, who is also the winningest goaltender ever, will break that shutout record this season, another huge, huge accomplishment. That record was long considered to be a Gretzky-like record, meaning one that was unattainable.

Debate amongst yourself where Brodeur rates among all-time great goaltenders, but it is clearly near or at the very top of the list.

" Previous Post | Main
  •