If you're planning to watch the NHL YoungStars game Saturday evening, you may want to keep the remote control handy.
Chances are you'll need it.
Trust me, you'll thank me later. Sparing you the pain of watching this dog and pony show is hockey's gift that just keeps on giving.
Two six-minute periods of 3-on-3 hockey, eight players per side and goalies from the big boys' All-Star game. Seems there is a shortage of young goaltender stars in the league this year, huh?
No stoppages. Running time on the clock. When there's a goal, one player gets to fish the puck out of the net before starting off in the other direction.
Pond hockey, NHL style.
Intriguing stuff.
Might as well throw the sticks in the middle of the rink and pick teams. Winner gets a free Happy Meal from the Golden Arches.
One year ago, the game was a cure for insomnia. If you're expecting anything more this time around, you're setting yourself up for disappointment.
In the not-so-classic last year, anyone remember Evgeni Malkin picking cherries most of the night, floating at the red-line waiting for breakaway passes?
Doesn't exactly float my boat.
It was an evening of no defense, little effort, and constant yawning from the fans. Little surprise the rink was 1/3 full.
This time around, in an attempt to boost attendance, the NHL has decided to merge the YoungStars game into the Skills competition.
Fans attending the game have the option to watch or hit the washrooms to give back that $10 beer. The jury is still out on what will be a more memorable experience.
If the NHL really wanted to get players to give some effort, the MVP from each team should get a free pass to play in the big-boys show the next day.
That might give them a little kick in the arse for inspiration.
Otherwise, this game is a colossal waste of time.
Remember, there's always an I Love Lucy rerun on the classic channel. Just in case.