Interesting to see the variance of opinion on this. Some hate the made-up teams, some thought TNA was the only compelling part.
For me, the thing that made it less compelling was that it wasn't overly competitive. Team Canada was expected to win, and they did. However, the issue isn't because it is hockey in September, or that the tournament is somehow a "made-up" tournament and a cash grab. Of course it is a made up tournament and a cash grab. They all are, including the Olympics.
It would have been different had it been more competitive. The 72 Summit Series was made up and presumably a cash grab (although I don't know who got paid, Eagleson?). Awesome because the Russians took it to Canada, when no one expected it. How about the New Year's Eve game of USSR vs Canadiens? (maybe 1980 or so?). Awesome game, and I HATE the Canadiens. Best in-arena experience I ever had was the 1984 Canada cup, where I was fortunate to be there for the semi against the USSR. Incredible game, incredible atmosphere for a made up tournament and cash grab. So good, I was actually cheering for Paul Coffey. Too bad nothing like that captured our imaginations this time around, but I don't think it is the concept that is to blame.
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From HFBoard oiler fan, in analyzing MacT's management:
O.K. there has been a lot of talk on whether or not MacTavish has actually done a good job for us, most fans on this board are very basic in their analysis and I feel would change their opinion entirely if the team was successful.
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