Twitter talk surrounding our game has picked up in intensity with main topics of discussion including line combos of the 24 teams still playing, who will start in goal for a few teams and of course all the precautions teams are taking during this pandemic.

Oh, did I mention the Leafs? I do follow about twenty media types who not only cover the NHL but also the Leafs. I am going to spare you the talk but I will tell you they have been very thorough in their coverage.

They say a picture tells a thousand words so if you are asking, my pick for the winner of the Stanley Cup is...

What I am really doing is killing time while hoping all the teams remain healthy and all 24 teams can head to their hub city. I feel they will be in a much more controlled and safer environment and I must commend the NHL for thinking about safety first with a well thought out plan.

Perhaps it is too early to pick a winner but who knows what the future holds (I'm talking to you COVID-19) but what time is good to pick a winner.

All things are equal at this time, we know who is and who isn't playing, we know what kind of regular season each team had so now it is a turkey shoot. Pick one at stick with it.

One last thing before I go on my rarely used soapbox. Enjoy our game, it will be different but what it comes down to is five players plus a goalie facing the same on the other side. It will be August before we see real hockey again, but it IS hockey and we should all be excited about it.

While sitting at my desk, doing what I do, my mind does wander at times with questions like how did this virus get so out of hand? I am sure many of you have an opinion but all I know is my question may never be answered and I am just looking ahead. I pray all involved with the NHL remain safe, the games can be played and we will have a winner of the Stanley Cup.

All I know it has been a tough four months for everyone. I have kept my head above water and look forward to KK being KK again.

The puck will soon be dropped and at least we can get our minds off of the world problems and focus on the game played on ice.

Drop the puck and as fans of the game, those words should mean much more as the playoffs approach.