Role Reversal

In probably what has been the most upside-down beginning to hockey since I can't remember, the LA Kings are winning, as well as the Avs, the Habs are just winning their first game, and the Devils are struggling to hold on to each and every game. Add to that the Boston Bruins, whose heartbreaking loss in the playoffs last year brought in an arena full of fans only to leave in disappointment to a near shutout as Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas let in 4 goals from atypical scorers.

I feel like I've just entered the land of Willy Wonka or something, where everything is kooky, but it all will make sense in the end if we just pay attention and don't eat the blueberry gum.

It's fascinating to see hockey fans scramble and freak out, even at the beginning (myself included) at how their team is about to fall apart, when there hasn't even been 10 games played yet in the 82 game season. It's also incredible to see coaches already shuffling lines, as if they've even had time to get used to many of the players they've just been paired with already. For many teams, the shine will fade, and for some it won't. We speculate whether the Thrashers or the Avs or the Kings are for real this year. Will Gaborik stay healthy and keep the Rangers alive all year? What about the Coyotes? What about the Caps and their fairweather start: is it just bad luck or was last season a glitch? Will Tavares stay or will he be a difference maker like Ovi for the Isles? What about Duchene? All the questions and predictions of what will happen in post-season play are already so premature. Barely 10 games, and we are trying to guess if the Pens will make it to the Cup again? Pshhh. C'mon folks. Enjoy the season. We've waited long enough for it to get here. Or at least I have.

I tell myself this as much as I tell my friends... it's early (and they have to continually remind me). The kinks will be worked out. The seasons will balance. Until then, enjoy the fact that hockey is on almost every night (or it would be if the NHL schedule weren't such a trainwreck). Cheer on your team, and then enjoy the rivalries of others. This isn't a sprint... it's a marathon. Let's see who's left standing in March.