The Spin Plus: Battle of Ontario could get awkward

Comments

[Pension Plan Puppets]

Pension Plan Puppets here...Careful questioning Ron Wilson and Brian Burke's integrity. We all saw what happened to Howard Berger. Considering that you yourself admit that neither team has 'tanked' (a ridiculous notion) then why should it set up an uncomfortable situation?

[Rob]

I'm not sure there is really anything that can be done to ever eliminate this from happening. I actually think that the way the NHL does it is probably the most fair out of all the leagues out there. That fact that a lottery system exists actually eliminates the guarantee the the loser of that final game in your scenario gets the better pick. In the interest of parity in the league you always need to give the worse teams more advantageous picks, there isn't really another option. And I also really like how unlike the NBA the winner of the draft lottery can move up at most 4 spots. Could it be tweeked to make it better, probably but I still feel the main intent of the NHL lottery system is the best one out there. What exactly are you proposing?

[Jack]

If this scenario plays out, They should make it so that the winning team gets the better draft position. I know they would never consider this idea, but think about it: It would bring a bit of excitment to a meaningless game, plus it would solve the problem of having one of these teams lose on purpose. It should never be beneficial for a team to lose.
PS. I like the new video feature, but Torstar should buy you a camera with a better mic; the audio is a bit scratchy. But maybe it's just me.

[Mark Hillard]

Hey Damien,
I dont see how this game is any different than any game played between non-contenders for the best part of the season. Its been clear that at least 3 teams, the Leafs, Tampa Bay and the Islanders have had no interest in making the play-offs. It could be said that each team had no incentive to win ANY game, since it disadvantaged them in the draft. In the case of the Leafs, and just because I see more of them, I dont believe the players or the coach didnt try to win games, but they were overmatched mostly, and trades etc. were all positioned for the future not the play-offs.
Look, what you are really speaking to here, is the inadequacy of the draft system that rewards failure in order to create parity. In my view it should be the players that choose the teams, and the GMs' should be working hard to persuade players to join them. Trades should be looked at to make them easier, and this will be how a good organisation gains parity on a strong, current one.
I dont think the top drafts would necessarily choose Detroit either. They may be tempted by being the big name in a small market, or be happy to see a team built around them.

[Spence]

No disrespect Damien, but in general, I'd prefer to read your column. Technological advancements are great and all, but when it comes to sports columnists, you're my fave and I wonder if this vlog effort will consume the written word. Hope not.

[Giller]

Here's the deal Damien. Love the columns and blogs and mailbag and all that, but do not like the video blog. Why? Because, I enjoy reading your articles at work. But, at work - I cannot view the feed! (Really, it's the audio - shhhhh!)
Common Damien. You are first and foremost a PRINT journalist. So where's the print???? (okay, so it's on the net - it's still in written format!)

[Jeff]

This is why the NHL and all pro sports should endorse relegation. Your team sucks? They don't play in the big leagues next year. At least every game would matter and there'd be less incentive to be the biggest loser at the end of the year.
Plus it would help get rid of these "borderline" clubs that waste everyone's time with half-assed play --- Phoenix anyone?

[Chico Mesch]

I've tried two different computers and there's no sound with your video on either one.
I'll wager what you're saying is that it could get ugly because the Leafs will dress Garry Valk for that game and Ottawa will dress Gene Davydov.

[Dante]

I'm hearing impaired, and am always disappointed when a blogger I enjoy reading posts a video or podcast that I can't listen to. Is there any chance you'll eventually post transcripts or at least a synopsis of the video blog entries? As someone born in Ottawa but raised in Toronto, I'd love to know why the upcoming Battle of Ontario could be awkward!

[Steve C.]

It is not a perfect situation obviously, but it isn't that bad really. It makes for an interesting game doesn't it? If all it means is that it's ONE game of the year where people raise their eyebrows, big deal. In fact, I suspect this 'awkward' situation will raise the ratings.

There wouldn't be many paying fans who'd be upset at a 'tanked' game. Fans of both teams realize there is nothing to gain by a win here - even 'bragging rights' would be embarrassing in this situation.

I agree the NHL needs to change the way the Draft order is decided, but that is because of the many February and March games that end up being 'meaningless' to some playoff bound temas - not because of the LAST game for two NON-playoff ones.

I would doubt any new system could make every single last game a 'need to win' game anyway.

[Johnny Thunder]

I disagree that this wasn't a successful season for the Leafs. In terms of player development, I think this year was a total success. Poni had the most points in the month of March, Ian White was a true success, Stajan Antro and Moore all had career years, Kulemin can play, Schenn came a long way.

Sens, yah, total disaster, but I wouldn't say this year was unsuccessful for our Heroes.