47 replies to this topic

[hooon]

League really got this one wrong.

[Danielsm]

Very surprised they both were not suspended, given I figured Michalek would get more games.

[miksteri]

Im convinced that pens could get away with murder, maybe buttman, campbell and lemioux have wholesome 3somes to make up for all noncalls...

[cusimano_brothers]

From TSN:

Alexander Ovechkin is taking a pass on this year's All-Star Game in Ottawa.

Washington Capitals general manager George McPhee told reporters on Tuesday that Ovechkin will not be participating in this year's event.

''He really doesn't feel like he deserves to be there and doesn't want to be a distraction,'' McPhee told TSN Hockey Insider Pierre Lebrun. ''When he came in this morning, he said, 'I'm a suspended player and I don't deserve to be there.'''
...

Your move, Mr. Bettman.

[Uncle Danny]

From TSN:



Your move, Mr. Bettman.

ESPN is reporting that there will be no suspension for opting out. This was one hell of a ballsy move by AO. Love him or hate him, you have to admit the guy's got brass in his pants.

[RedWingsRox]

Right thing to do. If you're suspended from regular games, why should you go to ASG?

That and OV didn't want the embarrassment of being picked last while filmed by Kessel .

[cusimano_brothers]

If he has "brass in his pants", he would have reversed the order of his stated observation.
ESPN? They don't even give NHL scores during their reports when I take the dog out for her "2 AM pee".

[Uncle Danny]

Right thing to do. If you're suspended from regular games, why should you go to ASG?

That and OV didn't want the embarrassment of being picked last while filmed by Kessel .

I agree. Seems to me that all parties involved did what was right from their spot in the world:

1) Shanny had to suspend AO. Intent or maliciousness aside, it hit several of the marks for exactly what he's said he'll punish.
2) AO is a fiery character, and it sounds like truly believes the suspension was excessive. In his eyes, if you're going to suspend me, why should I play in your cash cow?
3) Bettman (or whomever the powers that be are in this case) recognize that his point is valid, even if it is a latent middle finger to them. No need to further rake the muck.

I'm a little personally disappointed, as he's one of the most entertaining guys to watch at these events, but I get it. Cest la vie.