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Disagree if you'd like...
Fan Commentary, by Mr. Miller
February 26, 2008
Those of you who know me know that I love a good debate. So much so that I'll often take a side that I may not necessarily agree with so long as it spurs some good back-and-forth banter. Some call it playing the devil's advocate; personally, I call it a form of entertainment.
At the same time, I'm certainly not timid about letting my true opinions fly. When it comes to the Chicago Blackhawks, I feel that I've earned the right to give my point of view and am grateful for the many opportunities to do so.
But lately, it sure seems as if my opinions have gone counter to just about everyone elses. From my thoughts on former Blackhawk Jim Vandermeer to current backup goalie Patrick Lalime, more and more people not only find themselves disagreeing with me but are openly confronting me on those opinions.
Therefore, I'd like to take this opportunity to respond to each and every one of you with the following prepared statement:
Get bent.
Thank you.
There's no need to rehash my resume as a Blackhawk fan. My past is what it is. But let's just say I've been around long enough to know that David Koci wasn't one of the greatest Blackhawk enforcers of all time and that those who go to their seats during play are idiots.
Each and every one of the following topics has, at one time or another, been fiercely debated at the Blackhawkzone.com message boards. At the same time, the range of opinions and the passion behind them are clearly evident in each. Feel free to browse the boards, see for yourself, and perhaps add your own thoughts.
My opinions are my own. Sometimes people agree with me. Sometimes they do not.
- Dale Tallon. He's far from the savior GM we all hoped for. But for stability's sake, he needs to stay. Shorten his leash, but keep him around.
- Tuomo Ruutu. Fans need a convenient scapegoat. Last season it was Aucoin, this year it's Ruutu. His production may be down, but his skill level and potential are not. He's worth keeping at the right price.
- Patrick Lalime. Talented enough to be a #1 goalie. I don't care about the last 2 games. His worth is much greater than the sum of a weekend road trip.
- Jim Vandermeer. He's not the same, tough, gritty player he was two seasons ago. But he's still better than Johannson and Zyzun combined. The Blackhawks defense is weaker this year compared to last. Vandermeer's absence is part of the reason.
- Jordan Hendry. A lot of people have a big woody over this guy and he's played just 20 total NHL games. People are spending too much energy on #5 or #6 d-man. Patience, people.
- Denis Savard. I'm beginning to think like many other on Savard. While I don't think he belongs in the top 3 or 4 reasons this team isn't succeeding, a different coach might very well provide different results.
- Chris Osgood. I know he's not a Blackhawk but how anyone can argue he's NOT a legitimate #1 goalie in the NHL is beyond me. I hate Detroit as much as the next guy, but face it: Osgood would start on a majority of NHL teams...including Chicago.
Mr. Miller
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