Quote:
Originally Posted by GirlySports
If I weren't such a Flames fan. I'd never watch the NHL.
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Girly-you've taken an unfair beating in this thread, in my opinion. This quote is exactly how I feel about the NHL--the Flames are the only thing keeping me watching.
It is clear to see that the ice quality is bad in many arenas. The Flames/Oilers game at the Saddledome on Saturday was also, sadly, an example, as the puck was bouncing around way too often.
You are also correct about the cycling: we've been conditioned to accept that this constant looping around in the offensive zone is 'good' hockey. The most exciting hockey is end-to-end, fast moving, back and forth--something that separates it from the other major N.A. pro sports. I can't remember the last time I watched a game that emphasized skating, speed and finesse like that, on both sides.
The game has outgrown its confines: the rinks are too small; the players too big and too fast for the small rink size. Too many games, too many injuries to star players. If Bettman and the owners really wanted to improve the game itself--as opposed to improving 'the game' (TM)--they'd look at making these changes.
Thanks for posting an opinion that, while not necessarily popular, is one that needs to be heard!