“These players need to understand that the dunk contest is for the fans not for them!” –Vladimir Putin just before he sank the Russian Hockey Ship in his James Bond diving bell???
EL BARIO, BRONX: Yours truly, the good Deacon Blaber, is sad today. Still reeling from the Canucks doing the double over ‘Merica in Olympic Hockey, my Bully Pulpit will be without fire and brimstone. So this day, the 22nd day of the second month in the two thousand and fourteenth year of our lord and savior, Yim (Clancy), we take a look back at the week that was: We will look at the following headliners: Canada Sweeps USA, Russian Hockey Debacle, NBA All-Star Game, Pitchers and Catchers.
Bow to the Beaver:
As a Rugby Guy, I view USA v Canada in hockey like Australia v New Zealand in rugby. New Zealand is a small country with a small population whose identity is wrapped in rugby, While Australia has a greater population and is competitive in multiple sports – yet struggles to get one over NZ in rugby. However, it’s easy to watch them when you have no skin in the game. When it’s USA and Canada in hockey, it is a whole different kettle of fish. I have loads of Canadian friends and it burns to be denied a chance to belittle their nation. Instead, we have to swallow their very polite trash talk. We have to eat crow for another four years. What stings worse is I wasn’t surprised when the USA Women lost because when you look at the history, Canada is in their head. But the men falling short was more than I can bare. Well done, Canada… that is the best I can do.
Russia wins Nyet:
The best they could do was not good enough when it came to Russia’s Men’s Hockey team. The got knocked out in the elimination playoff game. It is one thing to not win or medal – but to not even make it to the medal round is a grave shame. Grave is a key word because don’t be surprised if some members of the coaching staff go missing. Vlad Putin is not someone you want to disappoint as he is not that sympathetic. We joke know but if something really does happen, how many of you will be surprised.
NBA All-Star Game:
The NBA season miraculously just finished its first half. It felt like forever and a day. They commemorated it by playing an All-Star game. Now I know why most sport leagues don’t bother with All-star games. That is because they are a farce; No defense and not competitveness at all. As the salaries have gone up and free agency possible seeing a bunch of stars play together can be done by a one rich owner. The is no slam dunk contest by superstars anymore because the Stars don’t want to risk the damage to their egos and the extra work. Hall of Fame Dunk Master Dominique Wilkins say, “These players need to understand that the dunk contest is for the fans not for them.” ‘Nique’s words fell on deaf ears.
MLB Spring Training:
Finally… Pitchers and Catchers reported this week. I am not a huge baseball fan but it is always a sign that the snow must end and warmer days are ahead. Something about baseball makes it generate better story lines over the course of the season. Mets to be World Series Champions!
That is it for now, feel free to comment below and come back tomorrow for the one and only, Cheesy Bruin.
P.s… If you want to read more of my ramblings as a Rugby Guy, you can find them on RugbyWrapUp.com and our Facebook Rugby Wrap Up Page and follow us on Twitter @RugbyWrapUp and @JunoirBlaber, respectively
