One of the top players out for the all star game? not good for NHL ratings. glad I stick to ECHL and AHL hockey. minor league is so much more entertaining.

I know; I hate how the NHL is becoming more and more about ratings and, ultimately, money. The finesse of the oldtime NHL players is being replaced by dirty fighting, because that's what keeps the new American crowd (who have WAY more money than us Canucks) happy and watching (paying).

I still love heading down to the rink a few blocks away (even though it's indoor) and watching the minor hockey games (even though we don't have kids, Mr. Monkey coaches because he loves it). If you want to see effort and team spirit, that's the place to go!