Hey Guys...Draper Retired

I can't believe its been almost 3 days since this happened and no one has blogged it yet. Have our lives really gotten that busy and consumed with petty things that we've lost sight of what's really important. Well...probably not. Slacking is my personal excuse, and I'm OK with that. Who's gonna fire me? Snake? MdotNetz? Ha (seriously guys don't though).

Kris Draper had to have been the sports deal of the century when you really think about it. We got this dude for a buck back in '93! Literally! Do you know what a buck will get you nowadays? A small slurpee, a press on tattoo, or a can of Mr Pibb cola, and that's about it. The ROI on this was incredible, and that doesn't even take inflation into play. Business models should be built off this deal. Four time cup winner, Selke trophy winner, and one of the original "grinders." Not to mention that he was the X factor in what ignited the biggest and best rivalry in Hockey, and maybe all of sports, during the late 90s.

So on behalf of The Coalition, I take my hat off to you Kris Draper. One of my favorites to ever wear the winged wheel, and a class act if there ever was one.

Chris Osgood Hangs 'Em Up

DETROIT - Chris Osgood has played his last game for the Detroit Red Wings.
The 38-year-old announced his retirement from the NHL on Tuesday and will stay on with Detroit as a consultant for the team's young goaltenders.
Osgood amassed impressive numbers during his 16-year career, winning 401 regular-season games and another 74 in the playoffs while helping the Red Wings claim three Stanley Cups.
He was limited to just 11 appearances last season while being hampered by groin problems.
The native of Peace River, Alta., also spent time with St. Louis and the New York Islanders during his NHL career, but his best years came with the Red Wings.
He was a two-time NHL all-star and twice shared the Jennings Trophy given the team that allows the fewest goals each season.
So long, Ozzie! I wish I could say it seems like yesterday when I got your autograph at "Batter Up" card store, but that was fucking forever ago. I love the saying that Osgood is the "worst goalie to ever win a cup". Don't get it twisted. He won 4. And he was the starter for 2 of them. I wouldn't say Ozzie is a first ballot hall of famer, but I think he gets in. He has 4 cups, 2 all star appearances, and scored a goal for fucks sake. A fucking goal! C'mon. He prolly gets in on a shitty ballot with like both Niedermeier's, Recchi, and Paul Karyia in 2015.
Osgood plans to be the assistant goaltending coach for the upcoming season.

Sharks vs. Wings

So I tried to blog live from the Joe and the Droid wasn't having it. I'll try to recap best I can.


6:55 - The Eat 'Em Up Tigers guy expanded his horizons buy catering to his target audience. The "Eat 'Em Up Red Wings" chant was in full force. I am semi-convinced he's a real bum.

7:03 - I take pictures of the cityscape, eager to blog. I look like a tourist. Slightly embarrassed and significantly buzzed, I stand in line to get in. My cheeks match my Red Wings sweater. The wind off the river is roaring.

7:12 - We realized the 7pm game time was a farce and the puck doesn't drop until 7:30. 2 tall Molson's please.

Somewhere in between, a hockey game happened. We ended up on the wrong end. Mere details compared to the people watching, those who called the Joe Louis their "escape" on a Tuesday night. From the man with a mullet rocking a Hasek jersey, to the 4th grade teacher sitting next to me, I have never been more proud to be a Detroit-er. These people have character goddammit. The teacher sitting next to me had  elaborate stories about the city that made it feel like less of a hockey game and more of an experience. I vaguely listen, smile, and nod, while I watch the action on the ice.

9:37 - We soak in the city. What do you have to offer on a Tuesday night Detroit, we challenge?

10:13 - Coco Joe's is on fire. Almost literally. Bartenders are lighting beer bottles on fire and spitting flammable alcohol into the flame. I can feel the heat on my face. Place is out cold.

10:37 - With the Spartans game on every TV this bar is ALIVE, even though we are down 9 and there is little faith in a struggling team.

10:46 - Spartans somehow pull off the notable victory we have been waiting for. This team looks ready to dance. Prove it!

10:47 - Girls are dancing on the bar. "Shake That Ass, Bitch" on blast. (video coming soon)

All in all, great night. It exceeded my expectations for a weeknight in the D. Place was unreal. I could only imagine if the Wings won. People know the Wings are getting ready for a Stanley Cup finals appearance, and one slight speed bump would not deter a good time.

This is our escape from the grind. This is our livelihood. Can't wait for it to get warm because for some reason this city is energized. I can feel it. This is the most hype I've seen Detroit in years. Go downtown if you don't believe me. A fantastic time is inevitable.