In this age of charities and bail-outs, with 10 NHL teams (St. Louis, Carolina, New York Islanders, Nashville, Columbus, Tampa Bay, Florida, Phoenix, Atlanta, New Jersey) facing dire financial problems, innovative ways have to be initiated in order to save the franchises from impending doom. 

There are some ways which have been proved tried and true and others that are exciting new concepts yet to test the waters. Some of these these innovations and concepts are only specific to a certain market while others are league-wide.

We can expect to see the following:

1.  NHL Memorial Candles

Inspired by the Catholic candles featuring Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and saints, the NHL has created its own line of candles for all 10 troubled franchises which will have pictures of players and team logos except in New Jersey. 

Said a New Jersey spokesman, "We are uncomfortable about selling a holy candle with a logo that has something to do with the Devil".  But other league spokesmen are optimistic. 

"Lighting one of these candles is like saying a prayer for your team's survival." Available at all league arenas and at retail stores throughout the United States and Canada.

2. NHL Lottery Tickets

Ten different tickets, one for each franchise. The draw for the prizes will occur at the end of the regular season. The money paid for the ticket will go to the franchise ticket that was chosen. Available at all NHL arenas.

3. NHL Swimsuit Calendars, Magazines, and Apparel

Ten gorgeous models will model swimwear featuring team colours and logos. The photos will then be shown in calendars and magazines. The swimwear will then be sold at the appropriate retail outlets. 

Said a spokesman, "We've got to get some babe action here." Calendars, magazines, and swimwear will also be available at all NHL arenas.

4. Wayne Gretzky Comeback

Specifically for Phoenix, Wayne will become player-coach for the Coyotes. For each goal and assist he gets, he will donate one dollar towards saving the franchise.

5. Daughters of the Veterans of the St. Louis Blues, New York Islanders, New Jersey Devils

The ladies (wives and other female relatives) of the veterans of the three oldest troubled franchises have formed organizations to raise funds. In St. Louis, quilts featuring the three Plager brothers are being created.

Jams and preserves will go on sale in New York and New Jersey. Other hand-knitted clothing and crafts are expected to go on sale. Available at the arenas of the three franchises.

6. Nashville Country Singers Charity CD

The Predators appealed to country singers like Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, the Dixie Chicks, Clint Black etc. to help them out and the result is this stunning cd.  Available exclusively at all NHL arenas.

7. Long Island American Indian Land Claims

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