Now that the Olympics are over, I'm back to my normal routine of listening to NHL Network Radio on my way to work. There is always some sort of interesting information on the morning show, or at least some topic that tweaks my interest.
While this may sound like gossip, it was still interesting. I hadn't heard about the little 'issue' Thomas Vanek had with the Team Austria management over his late night celebration with team mates. Certainly they were in a celebratory mood after their win over Norway, but to blame Vanek (because he was Captain) for their next loss because of that celebration into the wee hours of the morning is just... just... just... normal. But blaming Vanek for Team Austria's ouster from contention is really a little silly. And saying chosing Vanek as Captain was possibly a mistake was also harsh. Really, even with Michael Grabner's five goals, their chances of gold were slim. But soon any of Vanek's late night activities (or any activity) will be someone else's issue.
One more issue about the Olympics that doesn't seem to be talked about is the time zone difference for returning players. It will take a few days for them to readjust. But the good thing is that all those players who got some rest over the break should be healthy and ready to go.
Strome, Lee, Halmo -- Come on Down! So there are your three call-ups from Bridgeport. Although if Matty Marts isn't ready to play soon from the upper body injury I didn't even know he had -- Maybe they can call up Pedan as well. As Strome, Lee and Halmo are the points leaders of the Sound Tigers, others will have to step it up if BPort wants to get in a better playoff position. Currently they are third in their division, but pretty far down in the league standings with 54 points.
Yesterday the Isles played outside in Nassau County and today they will visit the Viscardi school. Staying visible and giving back to the community is what hockey players do. And it's wonderful.
New St. Patty's Day items at the team store? Who doesn't need a GREEN Isles tee shirt to wear at the bar on the 17th? No, really. Who doesn't?