Thanksgiving is here in the United States and it’s time for everyone to stop and reflect on what they’re thankful for in their lives. The PDL team, including our resident Canadian which is a requirement for any hockey blog, got together and compiled a list of items we’re thankful for in the NHL.
Liam
I’m thankful for John Tortorella returning to the NHL. Frankly, when he was fired from the Canucks I never thought he’d back on our TV screens behind the bench. Thanks to the Columbus Blue Jackets, he’s back – for better or worse. Now we get the sound bites, the reaction GIFs and all the horrible/fun things associated with Torts.
David
I’m thankful for the new 3-on-3 overtime format. I was skeptical at first and concerned it was just another gimmick (it is), but the new format has proved to be extremely exciting and must-see TV. It has also proved to be effective in reducing the number of shootouts used to settle games and that’s always a good thing.
I’m thankful for Jaromir Jagr’s mullet. It’s coming back and that’s a beautiful sight.
I’m thankful other fans share the view that scoring in the NHL is fine and doesn’t need further tinkering.
I’m thankful for all of the hockey blogs out there where fans can find informative, fun articles on the game we all love. It enhances what’s already a great sport.
I’m thankful for all of the brilliant hockey fans who have used their skills and creativity to make games, Twitter and blogs an extremely fun place. A great example is the Flyers fan featured in the photo at the top of this page.
John
I’m thankful for afternoon hockey the day after Thanksgiving.
I’m thankful for the NHL Center Ice package.
I’m thankful that Henrik Lundqvist is still incredible after all these years.
I’m thankful for Doc Emrick, Sam Rosen, Bob Cole, Jim Hughson, Dave Strader, Bob Miller, Pat Foley, Howie Rose, and all the other play-by-play guys that care about their craft and make hockey even better than it is.
I’m thankful for the Bell Center, which brought all the history that they could pack from the Forum.
I’m thankful for the Daily Burger stands at Madison Square Garden. And the bacon-onion jam that comes with it. And I’m also thankful that I have the option of using Cap’n Crunch cereal as a topping for my ice cream at the Garden.
I’m thankful that Johnny Hockey is having a better go of it than Johnny Football.
I’m thankful for the Flyers, Islanders, Devils and Penguins. Because rivals are fun (and beating them is better.)
I’m thankful for whoever comes up with Winter Classic and Stadium Series sweaters for the Red Wings. Because I haven’t seen a bad one yet.
I’m thankful for the guy in our fantasy league who took Calle Johansson with the first overall pick. Because it makes me laugh every time even after all these years.
And I’m thankful that we haven’t had a lockout in a while. Because those things suck.
Taylor
I’m thankful for Boston’s irrational decision to trade Tyler Seguin two years ago. Because of their short-sightedness, we get to watch Seguin blossom with Jamie Benn, combining to make up two-thirds of the most exciting line the NHL has seen in years.
