Catching up with the Blades
In the midst of preparing for the MasterCard Memorial Cup, Fleetwood Mac played the Credit Union Centre Tuesday Night. Let’s hope the ice can recover in time for Friday night’s opener.
By the way, ‘Landslide’ was brilliant with just Stevie Nicks on vocals and Lindsay Buckingham on guitar.
The Blades showed up to the Agri-Twin arena Tuesday to a locked door. Someone in the city forgot they were practising there. Practice started a half hour late.
I spent some time with Lukas Sutter after practice. It seems like he’s learned to embrace a third-line checking role. That’s what he’ll be at the next level, and there’s no shame in that.
Michael Ferland is of few words, but he looks to be in good shape and is as healthy as he’s been since being traded to the Blades.
Andrey Makarov had a big old smile on his face upon our arrival — RJ Broadhead and I have seen him at just about every turn. From the regular season, world juniors, Subway Super Series and now here at the MasterCard Memorial Cup.
Makarov’s summer goalie coach is London’s goalie guru Bill Dark.
The Blades took part in a seven-block training camp designed by associate coach Dave Struch and Curtis Leschyshyn during their 51-day layoff.
The Blades are embracing the underdog role. This city is waiting with bated breath on how its team will perform.
Other stuff
Saturday’s clash between Portland and Halifax should be a humdinger. You’re likely to see the first three picks in the NHL draft go toe-to-toe-to-toe.
In each of the last three years, there’s been at least three first-round picks that have played in the MasterCard Memorial Cup a month previous to the draft. This year, there may be as many as eight, but at least six are guaranteed.
Brent Parker’s resignation from the Regina Pats came as a big surprise.
The hunt for a new head coach continues in Prince Albert, and there’s a ton of interest I’m told.
No surprise London was awarded the 2014 MasterCard Memorial Cup.
For the latest on the MasterCard Memorial Cup click here, or for scores and results click here.
For game times in your local area, click here.