Random Thoughts For This Friday

*No Peepin' Foes for the Hurricanes game tomorrow (1 p.m. MSG). We just played them Thursday, we won and we need to win again. But it is at home so it isn't bloody likely. Especially as the Canes has four straight days off after the game so they can throw everything at the Rangers to get revenge for the 2-1 loss in Carolina yesterday. But one can dream.

*It is sad that I find Larry Brooks' article today humorous. That it takes Wednesday's 6-0 loss for him to come out with a column saying what we have been saying for months is just sad - like THN coming to the same realization two weeks ago. I understand that a beat guy has to pick his spots but c'mon already.

*Congrats to Cally on making Team USA. Chris Drury ... well ... whatever. More on the Americans when I do the V2010 scouting report (which should be this weekend).

*It was weird not being at the Winter Classic but after watching it at home I don't think I missed too much. Nice spectacle, boring game, great finish. As I mentioned during the Puck Daddy live chat, it looks like the stands were much closer to the rink than they were in the friendly confines of Wrigley last year. I guess I will see for myself next week when BU faces BC on the same ice.

*Why is Atlanta playing Buffalo tonight? If the Winter Classic is something special for New Years, why have any other game? The Thrashers and Sabres could easily have met on Monday night - both teams have off, both have favourable travel and the Buffalo rink is free. I don't get it.

*After much thought and deliberation, I decided that I don't want the Rangers playing in a Winter Classic. Of course, they will sooner or later but I would prefer they didn't - at least not for a long time. This current roster isn't the least bit entertaining more often than not and there is no way I would be able to enjoy the spectacle with them sucking it up on national television.

*Of course, the Washington Post said today that "A league source says Washington is the strongest candidate to play in the fourth Winter Classic. The Penguins and Rangers are two of the possible host teams." Of course.

*Just a reminder, if you don't already, head over to Prospect Park where Jess is doing his usual bang-up job covering the Ranger prospects. At least there is some hope for the future ...

*Doesn't this ticket deal by the Phoenix Coyotes make you want to cry? I either want to shed a tear or strangle every one of the Dolans. Maybe both.

*Welcome to the new Whalers. Just look at their logo and their ticket deal; I love minor league hockey.

*And finally, best wishes to Christy from Winging it in Motown as she is signing off in the hopes of getting a real job. Here is to hoping that she gets the sports PR job she wants and is allowed or encouraged to blog a la Chris Botta. Best of luck until then!