July 18, 2011

So the airline Jet Blue loses the Stanley Cup, and then makes the Cup's escort go through the regular line with it when he finally gets it back. Nathan Horton, meanwhile, attends the Cup parade in his hometown without the Cup! In Jet Blue's defense, the Cup guy arrived at the airport later than he should have.

Here's a nice piece on Beau Bennett and how well he is progressing. However, he is still a good three years away. I've lost a lot of faith in the strategy of putting any stock into Pittsburgh forward prospects. If Dustin Jeffrey can't get a one-way contract and encourage the team to leave a spot open for him on the roster…then nobody can.

That being said, here are some very promising words about him from Ray Shero: “In our opinion, he’s an NHL hockey player.” The Post-Gazette said that the two-way contract does not reflect concerns over Jeffrey’s health, nor does it signify some thought that Jeffrey isn’t ready to play in the NHL full time. But then I don't understand the reasoning behind a two-way deal.

Those of you looking for a dark horse defenseman, check out this piece on Garrett Haar. He was drafted in the seventh round this summer by the Caps, but is wowing everybody in development camp. He's still some years away though.

Hmmm… EA Sports gives its opinion on attempts to acquire Cody Franson using Brett Lebda (thanks to Nate Rollo for the jpg):

Spectos weighs in on the Blackhawks possibly extending Patrick Sharp's contract. Sharp would be a UFA next summer, but the Hawks tend to re-sign all their key guys.

And speaking of Spector's Hockey, I enjoyed this piece by Lyle on the upcoming demise of Hockey Night in Canada. He makes some good points.

The Jets have signed Ben Maxwell to a two-way contract.

Doesn't Ryan Strome look lanky here? Great shootout goal though (thanks to Chris Hartley-Romero for the link)…

Keep firing me YouTube clips!