Rooting for the "Enemy"
by Becca H on Feb 24, 2010 12:45 PM EST
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I don’t consider myself to be among the most patriotic Americans in the world. I love my country, of course; I support my troops and vote in elections and would rather live here than just about anywhere else - but I’m not one to, for example, step out into the world wearing a shirt made of the American flag.
Not sober, at least.
But something about the Olympics brings it out in me, the flag-waving patriotism that makes me throw my support behind athletes I’ve never heard of in sports I’ve never watched just because they compete under the stars and stripes. It’s the magical thing about the Olympic Games; it unites us as a country, if only for two weeks, behind a common cause.
And yet as the hockey roster was revealed on New Year’s Day, I found myself incredibly annoyed at the team I would "have" to root for – my love of Team USA suddenly preempted by my NHL-fueled hatred with each name unveiled.
This wasn't the World Juniors, where a certain level of excitement existed from the outset. After all, it's much easier to be onboard when watching a bunch of unknowns with looser links to NHL teams, especially when you know you're watching the next generation of USA Hockey - and a little dose of a true American Hero never hurts, either. With the Juniors, I was fully onboard; with the big boys, not so much. I wondered how on earth I could cheer on these people in good conscience when, for 82 games a year, I’m calling them names like...well, names not fit for print.
Never underestimate the power of the Olympics, my friends.
I turned on the USA-Canada game Sunday evening, settling in to watch what would be my first Team USA outing in its entirety – and almost immediately got swept up in the excitement, my support fully behind the boys in the gorgeous throwback white jerseys before the puck had even dropped. So what if Phil Kessel, Ryan Malone, Brooks Orpik and Ryan Whitney were among those skating around in white? From that moment on they were MY boys – at least for the next week. No longer were these players from the Penguins, the Maple Leafs, the Lightning. Now they were just Team USA and I was behind them 100%.
Of course it didn’t hurt that they were playing a Canadian team filled with players for whom the word "evil" was coined...at least in the Caps fan dictionary. In a battle of two enemies, I’ll take the lesser one every time. But until I saw them take the ice I still wasn’t convinced I could do it; I didn’t think I could root for this particular incarnation of Team USA. I even considered not watching the game, so turned off by the idea that, in the end, one of these teams had to win.
Thankfully I came to my senses. Had I missed out on what was one of the great games of the tournament thus far for little more than a petty reason, I would have had to turn in my hockey fan membership card. And I needn’t have worried, because the pride I felt in that team from the moment they took the ice didn’t fade; in fact it grew, as with each goal they stunned the hometown crowd and the hometown team en route to a nerve-wracking victory.
As cliché as it sounds I realized I was rooting for the logo on the front and ignoring the name on the back. It was a necessity but not as hard an adjustment as I'd thought it would be. Players I would never clap for in a million years in the NHL got hearty applause on this night. I even let out a cheer of excitement when Brooks Orpik leveled someone in red behind the net. Nothing short of the magic of the Olympic Games in all their glory would elicit such a response, and I was fully under its spell.
Whatever happens over the next few days, this team has become my team and the team of hockey fans around the country, regardless of their rooting interest the rest of the year. I support our Capital Olympians and will be thrilled if Alex Ovechkin or Nicklas Backstrom should lead their respective countries to the gold medal; for many Caps fans I'm sure that's still the only palatable option. But at the end of the day I'm pulling for Team USA and every one of the players wearing the red, white and blue, even over the boys who wear those colors the rest of the year. No one is more surprised than I am.
After the Games are over and the players are scattered back to their NHL teams, of course, the hatred and the name-calling will return - but maybe with a bit of a soft spot for these particular American players going forward.
Therein lies the magic of the Olympics.
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Bravo.
It helps that you don’t as easily recognize who they are in the USA Jerseys… Always a surprise which guys are instantly recognizable via their skating styles and body-types and others are not.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Feb 24, 2010 12:52 PM EST reply actions
“There are two names on those jerseys, and the one on the front is hell of a lot more important than the one on the back!”
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 1:26 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
You’re looking for players whose name on the front of the sweater is more important than the one on the back. I look for these players to play hard, to play smart and to represent their country.
/Herb Brooks’d
Поклон перед вашим капитаном!
by Knubles and Bits on Feb 24, 2010 2:11 PM EST up reply actions
I am born in Washington DC, am a US citizen and have spent no more than ~6 weeks of my life outside this country.
I am rooting for Russia.
"Have you ever played?" "Yes, I was a goalie"
I’d like to see the Russian Caps do well, but I have no loyalty to the Russian team itself.
"My face is my mask."
by Jake Shapiro on Feb 24, 2010 12:58 PM EST up reply actions
Same here. Born in DC, us citizen but I’m rooting for Russia at least vs Canada.
If/when it comes to USA vs Russia.. I dunno. That’s going to be a tough one. I’d probably say Russia. And before I’m demonized let me say this.
THIS IS A SPORT. It’s not two governments going at each other. It’s not two militaries. It’s just sportsmen vs sportsmen. Who the hell cares if I was born at 31 degreed lattitude and 45 degrees longitude or If I was born at 75 degrees longitude? By rooting for Russia it’s not like I’m saying I like Russia’s government more or I’m a traitor. It just means I like their players more.
Anyone who thinks that we Russia rooters are non-patriotic .. let me ask you this…,Then why aren’t you rooting for the NHL team with the most Americans?
by Brainumbc on Feb 24, 2010 1:09 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs
If you cheer for a team based on how much you like the individual players… why were you a Caps fan when Jagr was on the team?
"My face is my mask."
by Jake Shapiro on Feb 24, 2010 1:10 PM EST up reply actions
THIS IS A SPORT. It’s not two governments going at each other. It’s not two militaries. It’s just sportsmen vs sportsmen. Who the hell cares if I was born at 31 degreed lattitude and 45 degrees longitude or If I was born at 75 degrees longitude? By rooting for Russia it’s not like I’m saying I like Russia’s government more or I’m a traitor. It just means I like their players more.
Mark it down – I’m in total and complete agreement with Brainumbc.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Feb 24, 2010 1:17 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
See how the Olympics can bring people together.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Feb 24, 2010 1:19 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Back in the 70’s & 80’s I always said I’d root for the Soviets if they played the Flyers.
Just shoot me.
LOL. Out of curiosity.. How did most Caps fans feel about the Flyers in the 90’s? (seeing as how we didn’t have the Internet to really share our opinions and see where we stood with the rest of the dc area).
I personally loved Lindros . The Flyers were my second fav team because of the Legion of Doom.
No way. Hated Lindros with a passion, initially due to his sense of entitlement when drafted (he refused to play for Quebec), and second beacause he was a Flyer. Loved it when the Avalanche ended up having all that success, largely as a result of the haul they got by trading him to the Flyers. Too bad Quebec didn’t see those Cups.
Just shoot me.
And third because he was a dirty punk with that stick for someone renowned for being so big and tough. He got away with some of the dirtiest stick work I’ve ever seen. Hate him.
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
Hated them then as much as I did in the ’80s.
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 1:48 PM EST up reply actions
All of PA is a “root against” zone, exempting Hershey of course.
"Ah, dinner. The perfect break between work and drunk." - Homer Simpson
Actually….
On the Forecheck-where Patric Hornqvist is never underappreciated.
Follow me on Twitter
by Chris Burton on Feb 24, 2010 2:11 PM EST up reply actions
As a Marylander, my loyalty is being tested by Union occupation, right? The despot’s heel being on my shore and all…
"Ah, dinner. The perfect break between work and drunk." - Homer Simpson
Right
You shouldn’t tolerate the oppression!
On the Forecheck-where Patric Hornqvist is never underappreciated.
Follow me on Twitter
by Chris Burton on Feb 24, 2010 2:19 PM EST up reply actions
Back in Philly in the 90’s, most Flyers fans were mixed about Lindros. As good as he was, he was overshadowed by two things: His meddling father (who was constantly demanding special treatment for his son), and the fact that he came at the price of Peter Forsberg (and his eventual Cup). Before he left, Lindros had been voted out as “C” by the other players.
"We'll just reload our weapons and be ready for the second half of the season." - AO
When Red Army played an exhibition against Philly, I was rooting for Red Army to whup them (just like they did to the Islanders two nights earlier.) Alas the Flyers did the Broad Street Bullies on them and won 4-1 and they had the Red Army players afraid fo their own shadows by the time the game was over.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
Had you been born in Philly. You’d be splitting hairs, trying to find reasons to hate the Capitals :)
If I grew up in Philly, I’d be looking for reasons to hate the Penguins…
I did grow up in NY and the Caps were widely viewed by Ranger fans as “2 points” as in an easy win. When I was a kid in the 1970s… they were an easy win.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:05 PM EST up reply actions
reminds me of jokes about rooting for The Taliban if they played the Penguins
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Feb 24, 2010 2:04 PM EST up reply actions
I remember seeing some fans posting about rooting for the Taliban or Al Qaida or Hezbollah against the Pens.
I made a wise remark about one such comment. And another fan then posted “Those are some pretty sick hockey teams.” Plus, they’re Bettman’s attempt at expanding hockey into non-traditional markets. (Warm dry places where it’s hard to find water, much less the means of cooling the water cold enough to make ice.)
Rocking the Red since 1975
Thanks.
And sorry. I completely respect the opinion of anyone who roots for USA .. and yea.. if USA was enemies with Russia still I probably wouldn’t root for them (but then again their players wouldnt be over here anyways).
I’m just one of these hippies deep down though that consider myself a citizen of the PLANET rather than the USA. I don’t think certain people deserve to be treated special just because of how far north/south/east/west they were shoved out of their womb.
Anyways.. that’s a whole other political conversation.
Anyways.. that’s a whole other political conversation.
oops
syntactical ambiguity
if USA was enemies with Russia still I probably wouldn’t root for them
If USA was enemies with Communist USSR I’d probably be rooting for USA.
Commies annoy me
If the USSR was still around, Alex Ovechkin would be playing for Dynamo Moscow
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 1:59 PM EST up reply actions
Yea .. which means I probably wouldn’t be aware of his existence.. or that of Sergei Fedorov (probably my favorite player of all time) so in that sense I would probably be rooting for USA as well
Actually Fedorov defected from the Soviet Union to come play in the NHL.
Поклон перед вашим капитаном!
by Knubles and Bits on Feb 24, 2010 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
But if the USSR were still around he would not be playing for them. He wouldn’t be allowed on Soviet soil for the fear of being shot. You would still know who he was, because he came here before the fall.
Поклон перед вашим капитаном!
by Knubles and Bits on Feb 24, 2010 2:26 PM EST up reply actions
Haha good point. But I’ve gone to war twice for my country and you are gonna be hard pressed to get me to root against them. Even in something as silly as a sporting event.
Поклон перед вашим капитаном!
by Knubles and Bits on Feb 24, 2010 2:32 PM EST up reply actions
Thanks.
Поклон перед вашим капитаном!
by Knubles and Bits on Feb 24, 2010 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
had the Soviet Union not collapsed soon quickly after he defected, my guess is he would have gotten US citizenship and an IIHF exemption to play for the US. Imagine Feds in a USA jersey.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
had the Soviet Union not collapsed soon quickly after he defected,
You should rearrange that sentance
The Soviet Union collapsed soon quickly BECAUSE he defected :)
the power of Feds held them together!
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
Fedorov defected. He would have made it here.
And you’d be aware of Ovechkin every 4 years…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:06 PM EST up reply actions
Yep. I’m rooting for the U.S. all the way, but don’t have a problem with people rooting for whomever they want.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
It feels weird rooting for Malkin.
But I never really had anything against Malkin. It was his teammate that I always thought was a douche-sandwich. I think a lotta’ people over the past few years found themselves writing Malkin off as a “bad guy” just because of guilt by association.
I don't mind Malkin...
…he’s a respectable player who doesn’t whine or cry out there. He plays the game hard, and gets good results.
Crosby whines when he doesn’t get his way and still lives in someone else’s house. At $8.7M/year you’d think he could get his own place…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
Crosby discusses calls with officials. 29 other captains (and countless other players) must whine as well.
Sorry to snipe, but after seeing this meme countless times Sunday, it’s beyond annoying.
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 2:08 PM EST up reply actions
I wonder if Crosby will be branded for life as a whiner. Honestly I haven’t seen much yappiness from him lately. I think losing two seasons ago in the Stanley Cup finals really humbled him. He’s a lot more “walk the walk” kinda guy now.
The last game he lost vs the Caps a month ago… he definitely should have drawn a ton of penalties but instead of asking for a call he just had this look like he was going to smash the puck through Jose’s skull
Valid point in general, but in this town Crosby never lives down the “please stop the hats” remark. That is the definition of whining.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I’m not sure which is funnier; that or that people still being gristled by his reaction of it.
Since we’re borrowing from Herb Brooks lately, here’s a novel one to paraphrase:
Play your game, and don’t worry about what others are going to do to throw you off it.
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 2:24 PM EST up reply actions
Look, he ended up the winner, so it’s of no importance in the big picture. It just paints a picture that isn’t very flattering. It was a stupid thing to say, and it was incredibly stupid to repeat it to the cameras. Those are the things that get remembered, not all the positives.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Those are the things that get remembered by a players opposing fans, which, to be honest, means Richard Otcasek.
I could give a frak about the perception of a non DC-based player by DC supporters. What I care about is getting more in my trophy case than he does in his with what I’ve got.
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 2:58 PM EST up reply actions
It’s not about the officials… it’s the “Too Many Hats” stuff. Talking to the refs to get some advantage in a game is part of the game.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:07 PM EST up reply actions
I’m actually starting to turn on Malkin a bit. Very talented player but he’s started to play a little too dirty lately – watch him with his stick, he’s like Briere out there sometimes, and he’s developed a tendency to hit from behind that is troubling.
Also, I’ve heard stuff about him refusing to play for the Pens if Crosby made more than he did (which is why they make the same amount now).
…and doesn’t he still live with Gonchar, both here AND in Russia? Thought I’d read that somewhere. Not the point really, just sayin’ ;)
I haven’t noticed but I’ll keep my eye on him now that you mentioned it.
Yea the monetary stuff is kind of annoying. I try my best (but not well) to separate contracts/demands for salary aside from the actual athlete.
I was one of those people who, during the lockout, were bashing NHL players as Greedy.. and then when Roenick started bashing the bashers.. actually had to sit down and realize he was probably right. We really don’t know the whole story when it comes to negotiations.
True. It’s not the main reason why I’m starting to go anti-Malkin, just one of those things.
I’ll have to call on my friend who is a Pens fan (…I know, I know) to fill me in on more – she HATES Malkin. Hates him. Has arguments almost daily with her fellow Pens fans about why he’s not the greatest thing since sliced bread – I may have been influenced by her just a tad, come to think of it.
But yeah, if Russia wins Gold I’ll be happy for them in spite of Malkin. And Gonchar.
Don’t know about Russia, but here he has his own place here (Puck Daddy showed pics of it in an interview with him at the beginning of the season)
"We'll just reload our weapons and be ready for the second half of the season." - AO
And by “he” I’m talking about Malkin
"We'll just reload our weapons and be ready for the second half of the season." - AO
Ah. Then I suppose it’s just Crosby. I think for at least the first two years he was living with the Gonchars (which I have no problem with, I actually kind of love that about hockey) – but he was living with them in the offseason, too. Weird.
I don’t find it so weird with Malkin. Dude could barely speak English his first couple years here. Why not have a slightly more familiar setting @ home. If the Gonchars were cool with it, no problema IMO.
Well, I guess I just wondered why he wouldn’t live with his own family in Russia, or get his own place.
Here, I totally get it – like I said, I love hearing about Player X living with a veteran’s family (for his first season or two, at least), I think it’s sweet. Doesn’t seem like something that’s practiced in other sports, at least not to the same degree; obviously there are more int’l players in the NHL than other leagues, but still.
Interesting. I see it the other way around and many caps fans are latching onto Malkin because they hate Crosby so much. Hyping him up allows them to say “Crosby isn’t even the best player on his own team” (which I completely disagree with) and the Russian connection to Ovechkin is also relevant I think.
I have waaaay more respect for Crosby. He’s a better and more consistent player, and despite his early reputation of being a whiner and diver his work ethic is incredible and I respect the hell out of the way he has consistently improved the weaknesses in his game. I can deal with him whining a bit much more than with Malkin going out there kicking, slew footing, and blatantly hitting from behind. I find that far more classless than complaining to the ref for a call.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Feb 24, 2010 5:49 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I do not really have a problem with anyone cheering for the Russians or whoever, I just happen to feel allegiance to the American team.
Free Eric Fehr!
by desperado on Feb 24, 2010 1:18 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The Olympics to me are a source of national pride. Since the U.S. are not the best team in this field it makes it easier to root for them since they’re an underdog. I root for U.S. over anyone, no matter who is on the other team.
by killianskid34 on Feb 24, 2010 1:48 PM EST up reply actions
Mark me down as rooting for Russia and I’m as big a USA guy as the next person. Having gone through the whole patriotic thing in 1980, this doesn’t even come close as a source of national pride for me. To me, this Olympics hockey tournament is the ultimate All-Star game. Combine that with the fact that there’s not one Cap on the USA team and I just have little connection with those players. If Russia doesn’t win, I’d throw my support behind the American team but I’d hardly be devastated if they lost. The only team I don’t want to win is Canada and their whole “this is our sport” routine. It’s annoying when it’s Americans and basketball and it’s no less annoying when it pertains to hockey.
by b.orr4 on Feb 24, 2010 2:29 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Mark me down as rooting for Russia and I’m as big a USA guy as the next person.
Well, by definition you’re not.
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
Absolutely!
The Olympics are about the athletes, not their countries.
At the opening ceremony, the athletes march in behind their national flags. At the closing ceremony, they all march in together (whoever is still there), without the flags.
You can root for whichever team you want. To me Team USA has some good guys (Zach Parise, Ryan Miller), some guys I like seeing on their keister (Callahan, Langenbruner, Drury) and a few that…. well, they’re either thugs (Backes) or Penguins (Orpik). I want to see Orpik get nailed when he has the puck in the NHL, why should I want to see him do well here. To me, Team USA is like the Phoenix Coyotes, in that they’re a team to watch, they work hard, and get results.
Canada… they’re the [Lemieux]-ing Penguins. I hope they get their [Avery]es handed to them tonight by the Russians.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
The Olympics are about the athletes, not their countries.
More proof about really how the Olympics should be about the “best sportsmen” in the world rather than who is the “best country”
There was one guy doing that sky jump where you have to twirl around and do all these tricks. The guy was born in the USA but moved to Canada because his dad had lung problems and the Canadian air was better for him. So he had dual citizenship and then chose to ski for Canada because he figured thats where he lives now. Just goes to show… where you live is just too arbitrary. The athletes themselves should be celebrated for their determination, skill, and perseverance. I don’t think nationality should really be as big a part of the Olympics as it is. Applaud the athlete and not the country.
by Brainumbc on Feb 24, 2010 2:00 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The athletes themselves should be celebrated for their determination, skill, and perseverance. I don’t think nationality should really be as big a part of the Olympics as it is. Applaud the athlete and not the country.
That is exactly how I feel.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
The Olympics are about the athletes, not their countries.
I know you feel strongly about this, but I’m confident you’re in the minority. The vast majority of these athletes are anonymous going into the Olympics. People don’t choose to root for them because they follow the athlete, they root for them because of their clothing. Obviously the individual competitions are about which athletes do the best, but the way viewers all over the world look at it is as a way to see the best of their country compete against the best of the rest of the world, and they damn well hope it’s the guy wearing their letters that comes out on top. Hockey is a little different because of how many high profile professionals are playing, but I still think the vast majority of people are rooting for their country rather than individuals.
And seriously, Backes isn’t a thug. He’s a very good, hard nosed hockey player. If this rumor is going to persist around these parts, I’d just request that people cite something to back it up. The Semin play was not “thuggery” no matter how unfortunate the outcome was. And fighting Team Canada one by one is just awesome. The guy scored 30 goals. He’s not a thug.
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
by Rob Parker on Feb 24, 2010 5:48 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I know you feel strongly about this, but I’m confident you’re in the minority.
No doubt. You’re totally right. Most people probably don’t think that but it’s just my opinion for what it’s worth
Now find, my happycake oven, bitch! Or die trying
You hear that, F&B? Die!
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Feb 25, 2010 12:14 AM EST up reply actions
I’ve been one of the most vocal pro-USA people here. It has NOTHING to do with government, politics, or any of that. I don’t know why you would assume that. I literally haven’t seen a single person here cite politics or government as a reason for rooting for USA. I root for USA because, on a basic level, I feel a connection to people that grew up here. But even more than that, I want to see hockey grow in America. I want to see us do well, to gain respect, to be a sign of how far we’ve come, and as a magnet to draw more attention and popularity to American hockey.
NHL teams are completely different. They aren’t representing a country, they are representing a private club. We develop strong connections to whatever private club chance happens to lead us to. Generally I do root for American born players, but it’s not absolute and cannot trump my connection to the Caps. The NHL isn’t even played in any sort of context where patriotism makes sense. It’s not an apt analogy.
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
by Rob Parker on Feb 24, 2010 5:39 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Well said.
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 6:51 PM EST up reply actions
I know.I’m not suggested people think it’s related to politics (although in 1980 that might have been different). I’m just saying I just get why people need to have the same kind of allegiance to a sports team as they do their country’s political ideas or what have you.
I mean..it’s sports. It’s not like sports are that important when it comes down to what really matters in life so why should who I root for be that big of a deal?
then you’re rooting for Malkin, too. I would say the American team as a whole > any team with Malkin on it.
by killianskid34 on Feb 24, 2010 1:45 PM EST up reply actions
I’ve actually come to like the guy. Super talented and he seems to have a good time out there. I just hate him when he’s got that ugly Penguins jersey on.
Yea. Once the Ducks finally changed their jersey from that God-Awful-I-want-to-bitchslap-Michael-Eisner Disney logo, the Penguins officially had the ugliest jerseys in the NHL. At least make the penguin look scary.
Uh…have you seen the Panthers’ third jerseys?
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:09 PM EST up reply actions
Naaaa.. But from what I remember the Nanucks had pretty crappy jerseys not too long ago. Thank god they were only around for a year.
Naaaa.. But from what I remember the Nanucks had pretty crappy jerseys not too long ago. Thank god they were only around for a year.The Penguins logo has pretty much been the same though throughout the years, right?
The Canucks have a fine tradition for ugly jerseys, but the worst of all were Nashville’s mustard yellow third jerseys.
Also forgot to mention Atlanta’s thirds…hideous.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:14 PM EST up reply actions
He’s a cheap, dirty player. (Slewfooting, Kicking, hitting from behind).
Now drink with me deeply of the bourbon, scotch, and rye until such time as we are fighting drunk.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Feb 24, 2010 8:35 PM EST up reply actions
Whom to cheer for?
It’s easy.
1. Team USA. Caps players come and go, but we’re Americans first.
2. ABC — Anybody But Canada. We must not tolerate Sidney Crosby tarnishing a gold medal within a year of his infesting the Stanley Cup.
3. ATC — Any team with Caps. It would be lovely to see Alexanders Ovechkin and Semin wearing gold AND winning Lord Stanley’s cup within 4 mos. of each other. Sweet.
by Bucknelldad on Feb 24, 2010 12:54 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
that about sums it up for me. If Mike Green made the Canadians, I would have to say, “Sorry Mike, you’re the enemy for a few weeks”.
by killianskid34 on Feb 24, 2010 1:50 PM EST up reply actions
My system is a bit different. I root for USA first, underdog second. As much as I love Ovie and Semin, I was happy when the Slovaks beat them.
"My face is my mask."
by Jake Shapiro on Feb 24, 2010 1:51 PM EST up reply actions
So you can recycle this column in a little under 6 months when we play England, yes?
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
Becca’s new nickname will be “Bradley.”
by DrinkingPartner on Feb 24, 2010 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
Go green or go home by environmentally sound means, baby.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
by RedBirdie on Feb 24, 2010 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
#needsmorebradley
Just sayin’.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:15 PM EST up reply actions
Ha. Getting placed in the same group as Canada in England (respectively) in consecutive major international tournaments for sports where we always play second/third/fourth-fiddle to them just can’t be a coincidence.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Feb 24, 2010 12:59 PM EST up reply actions
You forgot the part about a beneficial draw potentially getting both US teams deep into the competition.
/jinxed
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 1:22 PM EST up reply actions
Hey, at least we’ll have the potential of a couple DCU players making the squad.
"My face is my mask."
by Jake Shapiro on Feb 24, 2010 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
Oh not in terms of the enemy part of it. Becca did a great job of touching on the power of international play giving one who wouldn’t normally have a local rooting interest a reason to root for the home country.
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 2:26 PM EST up reply actions
Haha, well, I took out of it “rooting for (Callahan, Drury, and) Orpik wasn’t quite as hard as I thought it would be.” But to each his own interpretation. :)
I, too, find it absolutely incredible that an entire nation can rally around one set of athletes that happen to be representing the Stars and Stripes, though. There’s a lot of talk these days about non-naturally born Americans gaining citizenship to play for our MNT. And you know what? It wouldn’t bother me at all. You put on the jersey and you represent the country… that is clearly enough.
Don’t get me wrong, being a DCU fan, I’ve got opinions on the guys I dislike that they prominent roles on the USMNT, I’m just taking the more generic road that doesn’t threadjack a solid piece of writing. ;)
"I guarantee that we'll beat the Canadians." Ryan Kesler, 8/7/09
by Bald Pollack on Feb 24, 2010 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
FWIW, there are very few NHL players that I genuinely hate, or dislike beyond a mild “you-just-scored-on-my-team” dislike. Virtually all of the USA guys who play in the Western Conference are guys that I already was a big fan of.
Anyway, the point is that the only guy I can’t root for is Orpik. If the US wins a medal and he is a hero in any way, shape, or form, it’ll taint it for me.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Feb 24, 2010 1:02 PM EST reply actions
UH...
As far as the Caps players go, I’m rooting for No Injuries.
Yet at that point. Russia is Still CHUMPS , AO And all the gang there, CHUMPS !!! . Canada is Cocky and Snotty in there " owner ship" of the game of Hockey…..So now a question …….
Do you believe in Miracles? Miller Quick Thomas Gleason Johnson Johnson Orpik Rafalski Suter Whitney Backes Brown Callahan Drury Kane Kessel Langenbrunner Malone Parise Pavelski Ryan Stastny
I said….DO YOU BELIEVE IN MIRACLES ?
USA all the WAY , dont forget where you come from :)
by Mikko Leinonen's opposite on Feb 24, 2010 1:02 PM EST reply actions
dont forget where you come from :)
I come from earth
by Brainumbc on Feb 24, 2010 1:10 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Nice post.
I didnt really have any debate on who I was cheering for. As someone mentioned above it helps a lot of the top players are Western Conference guys i have no feelings for. Outside of Orpik I really dont dislike any of the players. Sure there are some Devils and Rangers on the team, but all seem like good guys.
Interestingly, if we happen to be eliminated before the Gold Medal Game, I’ll be rooting for the Swedes, not the russians.
Free Eric Fehr!
Best of both worlds?
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
by EmilyB on Feb 24, 2010 1:27 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
It was very confusing and weird to watch this.
You guys will be in the same boat if Russia and Sweden advances and Ovechkin puts Backstrom in the cross-hairs….Very unsettling.
But: no harm, no foul.
Gary Roberts was born in a log cabin in North York, Ontario that he built with his own hands weeks in advance.
Or Russia vs. Czech Republic, if Ovie has his eyes set on Flash.
Everyone wants to kill the king. But the prince, he just sails along telling all the ladies, "One day I'm gonna be king."
by Steck It Out on Feb 24, 2010 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t remember him lining up Flash in the last Czech game, so I guess that’s good.
That being said, I think we’re lucky that both Ovie and Backstrom play on what would be considered “top” or “skilled” lines – same with Flash to some extent. I just don’t see their coaches putting them out at the same time all that often, none of them have a reputation as being a shut down forward (although Backstrom’s probably the closest thing to it of the three).
Almost...
…Crosby did get up from this…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 2:01 PM EST up reply actions
Crosby’s facial expression….yeah.
Everyone wants to kill the king. But the prince, he just sails along telling all the ladies, "One day I'm gonna be king."
by Steck It Out on Feb 24, 2010 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
For how much happiness Alex Ovechkin has brought to my life, I think it is only fair that I root for him to win gold. Nicky has brought slightly happiness to my life so he wins silver. Flash slightly less so he can have Bronze.
Parise has brought me a bit of happiness because I love watching him play but other than that and the occasional Chris Drury while on the Avs moment, the US players havn’t had much of an affect on my life.
"Have you ever played?" "Yes, I was a goalie"
Impossible. Russia and Sweeden would relegate one or the other to the Bronze medal game if they both win today….
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Feb 24, 2010 2:01 PM EST up reply actions
I realize you were only illustrating a point, just had to stick that in there…
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Feb 24, 2010 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Brava, Becca! I was actually drafting a similiar post when I clicked over to Japers and saw this beautifully done piece on the front page, putting mine to shame, of course.
You hit the nail completely on the head. Before the Olympics, it was easy to say, “I’m really pulling for [insert country here] because of x, y and z reasons” But once Team USA hit the ice, I didn’t care. I was rooting for them with all my heart. Leave it to the Olympics to bring about hate for random countries, too.
I couldn't agree with this post more
Pretty much sums up how I feel, except that there was never a doubt in my mind that I could root for this (or any) USA team. You check your NHL hatred (for the most part) at the door once the Olympics start…and then pick all back up again two weeks later.
Does having Crosby on team Canada (and no Mike Green) make me hate them a little more? Yes.
Does having Ovi, Semin, and Varly (and Feds and Kozlov) on team Russia make me want to root for them a little more? Absolutely.
When it comes down to it though, I don’t care who the USA is playing, I KNOW who I’m rooting for, and it’s the team that represents my country!
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 1:29 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
On the one hand, I understand that there are a lot of intlligent fans who experience hockey in a completely different way than I do, and that’s why JR is a great place. There are many unique perspectives that I would never even consider if not for coming here.
But rooting for Russia over the U.S.? Sorry but I can’t quite wrap my head around this one.
No, we’re not rooting for one government against another. Nor are we rooting for the Mayor of Washington vs. The City Council of Pittsburgh when we demand Penguins blood.
I liked a lot of the players on Detroit back in 2006 when the Capitals sucked ass. It didn’t mean I was pulling for them over the Caps. My fundamental problem with the idea of picking the team your favorite player plays for and rooting for his country to defeat your country is akin to liking Pavel Datsyuk so much that you hope the Wings beat the Caps.
I cheer for teams because I’m rooted to a particular city or country. I will always root for that team no matter what because, in my view, that’s what a true fan does.
by Kolzilla on Feb 24, 2010 1:35 PM EST via mobile reply actions 2 recs
I agree with this too. All the teams I root for (professional, college, international, etc…) are ALL based on my person connection to them. I root for them because they represent where I am from.
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
Right. And I don’t want this to sound as though I think I’m a superior fan to anyone. I guess I just don’t understand how people can switch national allegiances as far as rooting for a hockey team is concerned. I guess every fan is wired differently though.
by Kolzilla on Feb 24, 2010 1:44 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
This is a fair argument and certainly internally consistent with your morals/ethics/whathaveyou.
I think what has colored my opinion on this and why I root for Russia is that I was detached from the 1980 team (I was born in 1986) and then Olympic hockey wasn’t a big deal to me until the NHLers arrived. (much as I didn’t care about Olympic baseball when it existed even though I am a big baseball fan because it wasn’t the best players). My first hockey allegiance was to the Caps, not to the US team. Then once NHLers started playing in the Olympics, because I already had my team, I figured I would want my team’s players to do well.
It isn’t as though I am switching national allegiances, it’s just I never had an allegiance to the US team even if I have an allegiance to the country they represent
"Have you ever played?" "Yes, I was a goalie"
Whereas for some of us the “Miracle on Ice” game is our very first memory of watching hockey…
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 1:55 PM EST up reply actions
Because some of us are more global in our thinking and/or can divorce sports from nationalism (as long as the USSR stays gone).
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Yea. I’m just the type of guy that shutters every time I hear someone say the USA is the “best” country in the world. It’s so demeaning to human beings from other countries.. other humans who all bleed the same color, just want the same things (a little home of their own and for their kids to do well).
The way I see it.. all humans are the same.. American, Russian, Canadian, Mexican. Individual people may have different values and goals but for the most part, all us humans just want the same thing.
I completely agree with your notions about being a global citizen, but that doesn’t mean I can’t cheer for Team USA in the Olympics. I’m American. I don’t think I’m better than anyone else, but that’s what I am, so that’s who I’ll cheer for.
"My face is my mask."
by Jake Shapiro on Feb 24, 2010 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
Pride and ethnocentrism are 2 very different things. I’m not saying you don’t realize that, I’m just saying that I do, and it is out of pride that I root for USA.
You can root for whomever you like.
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
I just don’t connect pride and sports (games). Pride and ethnocentrism maybe different, but thay can cause a lot of problems together.
I view the Olympics as a coming together of countries more than a time to wave the banner of my own.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Well, my point was that you can be proud of where you’re from, and root for your nation’s athletes for no reason better than where they are from without being all “America is the best and everyone else sucks!!!” about it, that’s all.
I was responding specifically to this comment from “Brainumbc”:
Yea. I’m just the type of guy that shutters every time I hear someone say the USA is the "best" country in the world. It’s so demeaning to human beings from other countries..
I am proud to be American, I love being an American, and I love to see our athletes excel in the highest levels of international competition. I don’t think it is “demeaning to human beings from other countries” to feel that way either…not that there aren’t people who do view the world with an ethnocentric slant, but cheering for the USA (or whatever nation a person may be from) doesn’t make a person one of those people.
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 9:12 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I don’t think it is "demeaning to human beings from other countries" to feel that way either
You’ve just demonstrated the definition of a straw man argument. You’re putting words in my mouth that I never said. I never said that it’s demeaning to humans from other countries to want OUR athletes to excel over other countries.
…“for the most part, all us humans just want the same thing.”
Then I just hope those damn Mexicans are rooting for the USA.
Just shoot me.
The way I see it.. all humans are the same.. American, Russian, Canadian, Mexican. Individual people may have different values and goals but for the most part, all us humans just want the same thing.
That doesn’t mean one country doesn’t do it better than the rest. USA USA USA!
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
It’s all good. I mean I understand and respect you’re opinion, but I’m just trying to find the best way to articulate mine:
I just think that saying you’re switching national allegiance sounds so overly dramatic. You’re not switching national allegience. I still love America. I love our democracy, I’d never leave the USA for any other country (although I might settle in amsterdam.. heh heh)
But Like I said.. It’s just a sport. It’s trivial. A sport isn’t ideologies battling each other. It’s not communism vs democracy or freedom vs islamofacism. Where you are born is really just chance… And Sports represent nothing but the individual players doing what they love for themselves
Here’s an analogy: If I like a French director more than I do an American director, and they’re both nominated for “Best Movie” at the Oscars. Do I have to root for the American, even though I like the Frenchman more, just because I was born in America? If your answer is no… then how does this differ from rooting for Russia because I like their players more?
Nobody’s saying you have to root for the team that plays in whatever city/country you were born in. It’s the switching of favority teams that I have an issue with. You can be born in DC and choose to be a Pens fan. Fine. Stick with the Penguins then. Don’t jump off the ship when Malkin and Crosby leave and start rooting for San Jose.
Same thing here. You can root for whoever you want. But if you just pick your favorite player every four years and root for the country he plays for, eh…I just don’t get how people can do that.
I don’t think people pick their favorite player every four years. I think most people pick a player they love and then stick with them for the most part. I’m sure every one of us loved Kolzig and Bondra. I don’t think that love is going anywhere for anyone here anytime soon unless they do something to disrespect themselves.
Same thing here. You can root for whoever you want. But if you just pick your favorite player every four years and root for the country he plays for, eh…I just don’t get how people can do that.
Exactly this. I love Shea Weber more than any player on earth (/awkwardness), but Team USA FTW, and Weber can go to hell until March 3 for all I care. I actually have a hard time deciding what would mean more to me-a US gold medal or a Predator Stanley Cup. In the end, I think I know, but its not as cut and dry as I used to think.
On the Forecheck-where Patric Hornqvist is never underappreciated.
Follow me on Twitter
by Chris Burton on Feb 24, 2010 2:04 PM EST up reply actions
And to a degree this comes down to what kind of a fan you are – some have stronger attachments to players and others have stronger attachements to teams. I’m sure a lot of people here, for example, would despise the idea of Crosby in a Caps uniform. Me? I would KILL to be able to see Crosby in a Caps uniform. I think I’m more extreme than most when it comes to being able to separate the player and the team he plays for.
like, I hate the Yankees, but I find Curtis Granderson to be a really fabulous person, so despite my Yankee hate, I hope he, personally, does well? (I had this “issue” with Mike Mussina, too)
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
Exactly, but I’m on the opposite side of the spectrum. I liked Mark Teixeira and C.C. Sabathia before they went to New York. I even liked A-Rod before he went to New York. I LOVED Johnny Damon before he went to New York.
They can all burn in hell now for all I care. They are dead to me.
honestly, I’m usually the same way. it takes a special athlete to get through my Yankee hate. Grandson is one of those guys.
I still hate Pudge, despite that fact that he’s in a Nats uni.
(is Damon back to the land of the living now that he’s a Tiger?)
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
Damon is just another ballplayer now who happened to do something great for my team in 2004. When he returns to Fenway with the 2004 Red Sox in 30 years I will give him a standing O. But what he did in going to NY afterwards assured me that he, along with almost every athlete I love, is no more than a mercennary.
the book “Feeding The Monster” reported that Boras may have not informed Damon of the Red Sox contract offer, because Boras was looking for the huge money. You know Boras, he thinks hometown discounts are for the weak.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
But Like I said.. It’s just a sport. It’s trivial. A sport isn’t ideologies battling each other. It’s not communism vs democracy or freedom vs islamofacism.
But you also said you would root against the USSR if it still existed. How do you square that?
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
I will always root for that team no matter what because, in my view, that’s what a true fan does.
I disagree. I think a true fan choses from their own accord (and not because of where they live or were born) WHO they like and what makes them a TRUE fan is not writing off your team just because they’re doing bad.
If this was 1941 and I lived in Germany, does that mean in order to be a true fan I’d have to be rooting for the Nazis?
Well, I guess this conversation has run it’s course now.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
No, but for some people that’s is how they associate with the teams they root for. Nothing against you for having different motivations.
"I am ready for his provocations"
by PaintDrinkingPete on Feb 24, 2010 1:45 PM EST up reply actions
I think the idea is that a true fan weathers the storm, through good and bad.
And did you really have to bring Nazis into it? Not liking Brooks Orpik is a bit different than not liking Hitler.
"My face is my mask."
by Jake Shapiro on Feb 24, 2010 1:46 PM EST up reply actions
wow, very well written
Agree with your assessment, difference being I was all USA, all the time. Never any doubt in my mind. Don’t care who they play or what Preds they are against, its country first, NHL second.
I had trouble right up until the ENG rooting for Kesler. Not anymore.
On the Forecheck-where Patric Hornqvist is never underappreciated.
Follow me on Twitter
That ENG was a beauty – tremendous effort by Kes (who I already loved, but I’m not sure I would if I was a fan of a Western Conference team :P).
I have to tell you, I know everyone’s gushing over Shea Weber – and rightfully so – but I’m a big fan of Ryan Suter, although admittedly I haven’t seen that much of him. Is my love misguided or is he kind of underrated?
Well Suter has never warped the time-space continuum.
Поклон перед вашим капитаном!
by Knubles and Bits on Feb 24, 2010 3:05 PM EST up reply actions
Suter (and arguably David Legwand) is the most underrated player on the team, and I have to say its probably because he and Weber are joined at the hip. Weber doles out the huge hits and pots the goals, but in some ways Suter is more effective, which is what we’ve seen in the Olympics as he’s taken a top dog role.
But yeah, Suter has never defied physics. Just sayin’.
On the Forecheck-where Patric Hornqvist is never underappreciated.
Follow me on Twitter
by Chris Burton on Feb 24, 2010 5:46 PM EST up reply actions
I just don’t want Canada to win. That’s all. If USA medals, great. Ovechkin wins gold? All the better. But I’ll be seriously pissed if Canada beats Russia and we have to listen to all that crap about how Crosby wins.
You had me at no problem.
by Ninjak on Feb 24, 2010 1:57 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
If we get another Hit to celebrate...
…with Alex laying waste to some guy in red wearing… oh, I don’t know… #87…then I’m happy.
He’s already buried the Ghosts of Playoffs Past by dumping Jagr in this tourney… time to finish off the Ghosts of Playoffs Present (well 2009).
Let's go Caps!
of a related note
i wrote this piece on the american hockey dilemma a few weeks ago. the poll results are very telling – while the plurality of american fans root for team usa, a fair amount passively or actively root for other nations. check it out.
ha – lunchtime hangover in full effect. here’s the link…
http://sportscorridor.wordpress.com/2010/02/14/the-american-hockey-dilemma/
by clarkgriswold on Feb 24, 2010 2:46 PM EST up reply actions
…and you didnt steal my thunder – your piece was great. as you will see on my newly minted blog, i dont have much thunder to steal.
by clarkgriswold on Feb 24, 2010 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
One more reason to root for Russia over the USA
A quote on Pensburg:
I dont want to hear "yea Sid has a cup but Ovechkin has a gold medal" go canada.
He’s got a point.
If Russia wins, we can finally stop listening to Penguins fans talk smack before a Caps game and then hiding behind the “doesn’t matter.. Sid has the Cup” card.
Not to worry...
…that could change come June…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Feb 24, 2010 3:18 PM EST up reply actions
Well, Ovie would probably agree with that – not sure I do. I would still rather have a Cup for Ovie to counteract that argument, and with a lot of NHL fans that gold medal won’t be on the same level.
I’m a devoted lurker—I love reading Japers daily and love this piece—but I suddenly feel the need to express myself. I really, really, really don’t want the Canadians to win. So for me it’s first “any team but Canada.” After that I need to feel a connection, be it nationalistic or individualistic. So for me it’s USA and teams with Caps players, primarily Russia and Sweden. I’ve discovered, however, that my strongest feelings are for Canada to lose, especially to Russia. I don’t want to hear more about Crosby having the hardware instead of our Ovi. (An aside—what a game between USA and Switzerland—hard fought but I’m relieved that USA pulled through).
Fedorov: "I'd like my career to go out with a bang. I'd like to just touch that style of play I once had. If I can touch that level it would be great."
by capsyoungguns on Feb 24, 2010 5:21 PM EST up reply actions
What you got against the US?
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Feb 25, 2010 3:22 AM EST up reply actions
he hates freedom.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
On Draper having to wear a USA jersey at practice: "well at least the Wings can settle bets without involving gold plated desert eagles!"
If only we could have ended up with bread lines and gulags.
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
53 | 28 | 21 | 4 | 60 |
|
Florida
|
52 | 24 | 17 | 11 | 59 |
|
Winnipeg
|
55 | 25 | 24 | 6 | 56 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
52 | 23 | 24 | 5 | 51 |
|
Carolina
|
55 | 20 | 25 | 10 | 50 |
(updated 2.9.2012 at 9:25 AM EST)
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