Now diving…

Last week there was a NHL rule enforcement meeting. Some coaches, managers, players and referees were all thrown together to talk. I think it was a great idea that the players and referees got together. These are the two groups right in the action. They should know more or less what each other is thinking.

It was reported that diving was a popular topic to discuss at these meetings. Diving and how to curb it. Really? This is the biggest issue for NHL rule enforcement?

Don’t get me wrong, I hate diving and would love to see it erased from the game. That will never happen. Get used to it: diving is here to stay. Referees get abuse from everyone remotely associated with the game. Do they really want to make a call with ten minutes left for diving that results in a goal and a loss? They don’t!

They suggested putting a list of the divers in every locker room to shame them into stopping. They tried this before and I remember the list being very short and we all just laughed about it. Fine them? Sure but a thousand dollar fine won’t even register.

I don’t think you can get rid of diving so look at areas that do need to be adjusted. I think the icing rule needs to be changed to protect defenceman. Yes I might be bias but how severe an injury needs to happen before we all wake up and change it. We all remember Taylor Fedun go flying into the end walls.

Would it be crazy to allow goalies to play pucks like they used to? I love how many teams forecheck like crazy because of this rule change but it may save some defenceman some big hits that result in injuries. I am on the fence with this adjustment but I believe it is worth discussing. What does the Nation think?

Ditch the diving talk and work on issues that can be addressed!

Nail Yakupov has a lot of energy and is very excited about starting a professional career. However, as a rookie there are certain rules to tread lightly into that career that should be followed. There is only one chance to make a first impression with your new teammates.

It is premature for him to be looking for a place to live in Edmonton. Nothing is ever set in stone and even if it is getting a house before you have practiced once with an NHL team isn’t a great idea. There is no rush, get to camp, earn your spot then get a home.

I realize that he will most likely play on the Oilers this winter. However, humility and some respect for the NHL goes a long way in creating your reputation.

I give Jason Gregor a lot of heat for his lack on skill on a golf course. I just played with him earlier this week and an apology is in order. He has improved big time! In fact he beat me by three strokes! I haven’t played much this summer but I have to give credit where it is due! Well done sir.

Now if only his golfing attire would match his game. Do you own a shirt that doesn’t have fluorescent green on it?