Why the NHL All-Star Game Is Worth It

This may not be true of all places, but around here, almost everyone I spoke with finds the NHL All-Star Game is nothing but a big bore. They say it is an overrated event.

Many believing in a cheated Montreal Canadiens voting system.  It is these who are convinced something is wrong when four of the six chosen players for the starting lineup hale from the host city and team.  

However, I have been trying to convince them that it is worthy to watch, and this year's event certainly showed signs of sparking interest for all viewers. Here's why:

The best of the best

There may be some argument against this statement, but when do you really get to see most of the top stars not only play in the same arena, but on the same lines?  The Stanley Cup finals are said to be where you see the best in the league, which is true. However, in the All-Star game you get to see more than just two teams battling for the satisfaction and bragging rights.

A real eye opener

During the Skills Competitions on Saturday night, the elimination shootout was the most entertaining shootout I have ever watched.  I think the participants' coaches thought the same.

Some of the players have either rarely (if ever) been used in a shootout situation. Yet, these players were able to excel. It is possible that some of them did it on purpose.

What better timing to show your skills than when every coach around the league is watching and when it doesn't hurt if you don't score?

A goalie's chance to shine

The goaltenders during the elimination shootout surely had most fun, especially when it was their own teammates trying to score on them.  Even when teams hold practice, this level of excitement just isn't there.

During team practices you don't have nearly 22,000 spectators watching you. 

Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins made some spectacular saves. For all we know, it could have been his way to warn us Habs fans that during the next match up that is what we expect to see from him. 

Even when a goal was allowed, the coaches and players themselves had a good laugh about it. This includes today's All-Star Game between the Eastern and Western Conferences.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?