tonytalkssports My Take on Sports, particularly the Yankees, Maple Leafs and Browns

Tuesday Thoughts

While complaining about losing an hour sleep because of the time change, here are some things running around in my head:

- Last night's Leafs game probably puts an end to the improbable dream of making the playoffs.  By far, this was James Reimer's worst game since he's been with the team.  Hopefully, they can bounce back and finish the season strong.

- Sticking with hockey, last week the NHL extended the contract of Commissioner Gary Bettman.  I'm not a Bettman fan.  He's not a hockey guy and I think his crazy expansion to non-hockey markets has been a failure.  Let's also not forget the season ending lockout of 2004-2005.  What was described as being needed to restore financial stability for all of the league's franchises, the lockout was a failure as 15 teams are losing money.  Let's also not forget losing ESPN as the league's television partner.  With that track record would we get a contract extension at our jobs??

- Plenty of controversy over the Chara hit on Max Pacioretty.  It's clear to me that the injury was caused by the uncovered metal stanchion at the Bell Centre.  First off, why wouldn't that be covered??  Secondly, the bigger issue is that shots to the head need to be banned.  I like Mario Lemieux's idea, substantially fine the team along with a player suspension which should be equal to the amount of time the injured player is out.

- Well, its look like Jim Tressel knew that his players were selling items to memorabilia dealers in April 2010 and did nothing about it.  Tressel has created this straight laced persona as evidenced by his sweater vest and neat appearance but in reality he is a fraud.  What's even more disturbing is the reaction by his defenders.  The President of Ohio State joked about the fact that he had to watch what he said because Tressel could get him fired.  And then there's Bobby Knight who defended Tressel to the hilt saying that Tressel is good for college sports.  This is the same Knight who has lambasted John Calipari.  Tressel should be suspended for the entire season.  What type of example is he setting for the athletes he coaches.

- It's interesting reading reports out of Tampa about the Yankees.  I can't yet put my finger on who the 4th and 5th starters will be.  If I have to bet Freddy Garcia will be one of them.  Not sure if it will be Nova or Colon.

- Eric Chavez has been having a good spring and I think he could be a nice addition for the Yanks.  I also think AROD will have a big year.  Looks in great shape.  And once again don't bet against The Captain.

- I'm really disappointed that St. John's drew Gonzaga in the first round.  Two teams that I would like to see move on.  Here's hoping that Louisville and Notre Dame do well.

- It was sad learning about the untimely death of Sabre great Rick Martin.  Martin certainly thrilled hockey fans in the 70's being part of the electrifying French Connection.  A big loss for the Sabres organization and for Buffalo in general.

- And finally, do you think if the NFL season is delayed because of labor unrest will fans boycott games like they did when MLB lost a season???