Re: Anyone else watching this hockey game
As a Canadian reviewing this thread, it does not surprise me that there are those who think that hockey is a marginal sport that no one really pays attention to in the US. It's true. However I scratch my head at those who would rather watch NBA basketball over the NHL. That reflects a Canadian reality that the NBA is a marginal sport in Canada. We watch all forms of hockey, but not basketball. Hockey in our media is ALWAYS the first sports story both print and broadcasts. Women's basketball gets more air in the US than hockey does, try and figure that one out!
Am I watching this series? Absolutely! I wouldn't miss it. The Red Wings are my team. I am in Europe and wake up at 2:15AM to watch the games, with a 6 hour time difference. I watch it streaming on my computer. No TV. I thought that the Capitals series was incredible. I also enjoyed the Dallas series with both Ducks and Sharks. Philly had some exciting games too. I have enjoyed the playoffs as I do every year. Would I rather see the Hurricanes or Ducks or Lightning in the final - NO! I like this Wings-Pens series better as the potential is there for some great offensive play-making - so far it hasn't quite materialized, but I am hopeful.
The fact that the NHL in its wisdom has decided to move games to VERSUS rather than stay with ESPN was a mind-numbing decision for me as it took the game away from more US households. How can they start to enjoy a game on a channel many don't even have??! It was short-sighted and stupid. I never said that Gary Bettman understood the game and its market. I prefer the post-lockout game better with more skating and passing and less obstruction. I think it is more exciting and more watchable than the Devils trap days. I would like for Americans to 'get it' and start watching, but it won't change the commitment we have to it in my country. I work for a US company and I talk the game up with my US colleagues.
The next three (or four) games should be very exciting, and if it goes to a seventh game then you are not a sportsfan if you do not watch an all-or-nothing the winner takes a championship game. Shame on you if you don't as you will miss some incredible drama. Some of the best young stars of the game are on the ice and they have talent like you cannot believe. In the end I hope my Wings are triumphant, whether anyone in US is watching it or not. I can tell you that the atmosphere in both buildings is like nothing else! The Joe will be ROCKIN' for Game 5!!