Despite popular opinion, I like the Kings’ 3rd jersey. By the way, I knew The Hills’ Lauren Conrad was an avid hockey fan, but I didn’t know she was an LA King ice girl too.

Speaking of third jerseys, I think it is a great idea for the NHL to market the game. The only problem is that they are too bulky. If Snoop Dogg can’t make them look good, then who can? They aren’t like wearing baseball or basketball jerseys. Heck, even football jerseys are made more fashionable. But in terms of 3rd jerseys, I like the Blues, Bruins and Yotes the best. Thrashers’ are nice, and I like the Flyers old school look. I’m not really a big fan of the Sens’ and Canes. The Hawks’ new special jerseys aren’t bad looking either. Here is a look at Edmonton’s leaked FOURTH! jersey.

I spoke of this before in the comments section, but if the NHL wants to draw interest in the All Star game, they must start ballot stuffing in favor for a starting lineup that includes Sidney Crosby playing with Alex Semin. Of everything that has been said, this would be a very nice side story that would draw fans to the game.

Speaking of this newly anointed rivalry, Crosby has responded the best way he could: with a player of the week award (12 points in 5 games). Meanwhile, Alex Semin has missed the last 7 games with an upper back strain.

Last week Jim Hughson was the topic of a great blog here on KK. It is about time this guy is getting some recognition. He top my short list of favorite hockey play by play voices. And no, this isn’t because he is the voice of the greatest hockey game ever: NHL ‘06. The other 4 include: Rick “May Day/Top shelf where momma hides the cookies” Jeanneret, Sam “Nobody says Save by Lundqvist like me” Weinman, Chris “I do play by play for the CFL too” Cuthbert, and Harry “who needs the leafs” Neale.
However, none of these guys compare to my three favorite play by play guys: GusJohnson, Dick Enberg and of course, the man - Chuck Swirsky. I can listen to them call ____ and i would find it interesting.

Another event that the NHL needs to plug more is the annual Winter Classic. In a marketing perspective, this is one of the best ideas the NHL has ever had. The new 46 second NBC ad is amazing. I love how they are doing it at Wrigley Field and I love how the ad incorporated one of Wrigley’s classic traditions with hockey’s classic jerseys. Bob Costas’ voice in the end gives the viewer a sense of legitimacy for the game. What would give the game more legitimacy is for President elect Barack Obama to accept the Blackhawks’ invitation to the game. It would be a great way to promote the NHL in the United States and also give Obama another sports base he can draw on, as he as already established himself in the basketball side of sports. Another example. And another example. Anyways, from a one time Chicago Bulls lover to a Chicago native, please Barack, accept the invite.

Game of the Night: Sean Avery vs Jarome Iginla. I hope Iginla does something to put Avery in his place. This game is not about Dallas vs Calgary, there must be some confrontation between Avery and Iginla.