Monday, May 11, 2009

Oh, did someone say something?

Right, I have a blog to post to here. Hmmm, well let's see what's been happening in Oilers land? Well, not much.

Today I read some rumors about Messier being considered for the vacant coaching position. I don't know about that. I always figured that WHEN he gets back into hockey it would be with the Rags. I could see him as assistant GM to Slats for a few seasons before taking over in NYC. But maybe he wants to try coaching? Still, I can't see him stepping into a full time NHL head coaching gig with no experience. Maybe as an assistant, or down in Springfield to kick Rob Schremps ass around the ice for a season before moving up the big club ala Kelly Buchberger? I don't know about any of it and to be honest, I just want a great coach to help turn this team around. I'm no expert on what makes a great coach, but I'm hopeful that Tambo hires the right man for the job.

In other borderline Oilers news at the World Championships, Canada lost to Russia yesterday for the 2nd year in a row picking up another Silver medal. But for Oilers fans perhaps the biggest news of the World's was Jagr's comments saying that if he were to return to the NHL, Edmonton would be his first choice. He is under contract for one more season in the KHL in Russia and remember, there is that fairly loosy goosy rule the 2 leagues have about respecting each others contracts. However, with the money problems the KHL has been having I don't think it would be too hard for Edmonton billionaire owner Darryl Katz to find a way to make that contract "go away". As Oilers fans, do we want an aging Jagr? I've been thinking about this since last summer when these rumors first hit, and now I think I do want Jagr. He will likely want a 2 year deal if we got him this summer, and I think we can get 2 seasons out of him. Aside from the obvious positives he would bring to the team, it will also force us to move some salary to make room for him. I think this is a necessary task this summer anyway and it will also free up some salary cap space in 2 years when his contract would expire, at which point we will be able to sign some of our kids, or other UFA's.

The Capitals have just forced a game 7 vs the Penguins in what has been maybe the most entertaining series of the post season so far. It's great when you can see the 3 top offensive stars in the game today playing in one series.

And lastly for those who are still feeling down about another long off season, watch this video. If you don't get goosebumps watching this you're likely not an Oilers fan, a hockey fan, or a Canadian...