FOR SALE: PENGUINS!

Here is an amusing ESPN article on the proposed sale of the Pittsburgh Penguin franchise to Canadian Jim Balsillie.

Given the history of the franchise, moving wouldn’t be a huge surprise. It’s been threatened often enough. The team has had horrible motivational problems for years—almost from the beginning--even with outstanding talent on the roster. (yeah…I agree that’s mostly a coaching thing…but it also has to do with the area…let’s face it, if you’re not paid attention to ,it’s hard to give it your all) And, the city is holding firm on the stance for no new arena. I’m sure the revenue stream would help the team lot. But, I doubt it would be enough to keep the Pens there if it was built. Once the novelty of the thing wore off, everything would be back where it started.

The Pens may actually make it out of the basement this year. They really do have the talent. Between rookies Sidney Crosby and Evengi Malkin, along with a group of seasoned veterans, they should do well. But, that's been the case for the last few years, too. And, that brings us back to the question of team motivation? Well…

Without a miracle, I agree with Buccigross at ESPN--they won’t stay in Pittsburgh much longer. I've been watching an NHL with the Penguins since 1967. I'll miss them.