The Second Annual NHL Season Review, Recap, and Awards

As a die-hard Wings fan for as long as I can remember, this was a tough pill to swallow.  No season ended as brutally for me since Stevie Y took his last shift. 

Although Detroit didn't look like the team I have become so accustomed to seeing during their last series (minus game five), I must give respect where it is due.  The Pens accomplished a whole lot this season and their organization as well as fans have a lot to be proud of.

So, that's what my foot tastes like.

That being said, lets give out some awards, make some predictions, and poke fun at people, shall we?

2008-09 Team of the Year: Pittsburgh Penguins

After much personal debate (San Jose? Boston? St. Louis?) it pains me to do this, but I have no choice.  I wanted to pick something a little more original than the Stanley Cup winners, but what they did this year is undeniably impressive.  In the closing month or so of the the regular season, it looked as if they may not even be part of the playoff picture.

They stormed through the Eastern Conference matchups; unfortunately, we had to watch Carolina roll over and die rather than Pittsburgh-Boston bash it up in the Black and Gold match.

All bias aside, runner up goes to St. Louis, hands down.  If you don't believe me, compare their conference rank at the All-Star break with their ranking at the close of the season—not to mention they have no superstars and a goalie that you probably never heard of before this year.

Most Improved Player: Zach Parise

It wasn't like this guy was no good last year, but he went off the deep end this season.  Zach recorded 45 goals and 49 assists for 94 points—not to mention, he was a +30. yes, I meant to type +30.  I have no doubt that he and Scott Clemmensen were the only reason the Devils were able to perform the way they did without Marty.  They have a good coach, as well, great system, Jamie Langenbrunner, but that's neither here nor there.  Props to Parise.

Runner up is Michael Cammalleri, who's 82 points, up from 47 last season.  Got a better idea?  Scrap that, Timmy Thomas takes second spot.

Most Unimproved Player: Manny Legace

Maybe I just like picking on goalies, well, I know I do, but what the hell happened you goofy Canuck?  If you post a 3.18 GAA and an .885 save percentage, you can pretty much bet that you will be taking a bus to work before the season is over.

Biggest Asshole in the Game: Don Cherry

A position typically held by Sean Avery was overtaken by a large, large margin this year.  As I had the N.H.L. package, I was able to watch Canadian broadcasts, including Hockey Night in Canada.  Can someone tell me what this guy's problem is?  It is usually refreshing to hear a T.V. personality speak his mind but Don has gone way too far. 

Hey, Canadians, that is why you lack respect in the eyes of many Americans.  I promise he would never have a job on any American network—well, maybe FOX.  Do you really agree with his viewpoints?

Most Interesting Off Season Story: Phoenix Coyotes

I used to live there; I hope they stay.  It would be a shame to see them go, especially after such a promising first half of the season.

Runner up: Where will Jon Tavares go?

Leave your feedback, bring the hate; we are all entitled to our own opinions.  Let's all hope we can have as amazing of a season next year as we did this year; it's good for the game.