A NEW NASH BASH: Rick Nash served the Rangers well when he wore the Blue Shirt. He was also—and is—”an extremely smart guy.” Which is why new Blue Jackets boss Don Waddell used those words when he gave Rick a new title: Director of Hockey Operations in Columbus.
JD is okay: Those of you who worry about how Old Pal John Davidson will fare in Blue Jacket Country, worry no more. JD is now Waddell’s “senior adviser and deputy governor.” Translated: Davidson still gets a salary, can relax, and talk sense.
BERUBE IS LOOKING FOR: The Leafs’ new coach and all-around great guy, Craig Berube, says he wants his club to “have an identity.” But they already have one, and it’s called “The Never Cup-Winners.” (That could change once GM Brad Treliving finds a buyer for John Tavares!)
IGGY’S PRICE IS NOT GOOD: At a cool $10.5 million, Montreal’s Carey Price was the NHL’s highest-paid goalie. Igor Shesterkin’s agent is rumored to be seeking to top Price’s ridiculous salary. If MSG caves to that demand, it could CRAZY.
SWING AND SWAYMAN: The Bruins’ goal will look like a giant sieve if an angry Jeremy Swayman doesn’t get off his high horse and sign on the dotted line. It’s not like the Alaskan is a regular Vezina Trophy winner. He’s lucky to be a regular.
THE UNSUNNED OILMAN: No offense to the great newlywed Connor McDavid or sidekick Leon Draisaitl, but The Maven’s Choice as Edmonton’s “Unsung MVP” is none other than Zach Hyman, the Lamplighter of the Lamplighter.
SOON AN ICE RINK IN OTTAWA: Rangers fans who like to fly to a Senators home game are often upset to learn that the rink is far from Downtown Ottawa; too far. The good news is that a new Downtown arena is being planned.
GETTING OFF THE MAT: The most intriguing tryout this fall belongs to Matt Martin. The durable son-in-law of Boomer Esaison – himself a huge Rangers fan – knows he has a long shot at breaking into Patrick Roy’s lineup, but I’ll give Marvelous Matty credit for trying.
