Happy Caps, misspelled jerseys and an awards show critique
The 2008 NHL Awards show last night was a big event for the Washington Capitals organization. Alex Ovechkin took home the Pearson, Hart, Art Ross, and Rocket Richard trophies, while coach Bruce Boudreau won the Jack Adams Award. Rookie Nicklas Backstrom finished a respectable second in the Calder Trophy voting, behind winner Patrick Kane of the Chicago Blackhawks.
With a bevy of awards coming back to the U.S. capital, it's only fitting that the city will honor the Capitals this afternoon during a celebration that will see Mayor Adrian Fenty present Alex Ovechkin with a key to the city. A tremendous season for the young Russian star ended with lots of hardware and now, an upcoming line of CCM wear that will rival Sidney Crosby's RBK apparel. And you'll never guess who's a fan of Ovechkin's new duds.
That's right, Washington owner Ted Leonsis:
"I've asked Alex to save for me one pair of bright, red pants which I'm sure will have holes in it and be low-slung bell bottoms," said Leonsis. "If he wins MVP and I can fit in them I'll wear them Friday night."
Yikes. A sight for sore eyes if I've ever heard of one.
Speaking of sorry sights, did any of you catch this jersey error last night, which has been captured forever on the Internets thanks to Seth Rorabaugh of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Empty Netters.
Yup, that kid's jersey says "LINDSTROM". Someone must be a huge fan of Columbus' Joakim Lindstrom.
Sadly, if you watched the entire awards show, that was probably the highlight of the entire night. There was way too much filler. Too many bad jokes by Ron McLean. And of course, a made-up Lifetime Achievement Award by Gary Bettman given to, who else, Gordie Howe.
So, let me put you in charge of the 2009 NHL Awards show. How do you spice it up to make it for more entertaining television? Ice Girls? Don Cherry? Mike Myers hosting? What do you think?
