I think one man can do it, and I think Bob Gainey is one such person.

But your second point - make the game interesting again - is crucial for the long term. Goons and trap plays make for LOUSY hockey.

cheers

>I really hope that it would be that easy. Only one man being able to fix things in that VERY SICK sport.
>
>But I'm afraid it'll take many guys to be able to put some order at every levels. And let's not forget make that sport interesting to watch again.
>
>
>>I'm still hacked that he left the Stars shortly after they won The Cup. But if he wanted to go elsewhere, I am glad he is back home with Montreal. Not that I want Montreal to lose Gainey, but if he resurrects the league, I think he can be really good for all the NHL teams in Canada AND keep them there.
>>
>>>Mark Mark Mark...
>>>
>>>Only one problem with what you're saying. Bob Gainey is not available <g>
>>>
>>>But to save the league I'd be ok with Gainey leaving the Montreal Canadians. BUT because of the nice gesture to save the league the Montreal Canadians would then get back what they lost many years ago. Pick all the french players they want in every draft forever. Does this sound reasonable?
>>>
>>>>>I heard that the NHL was going to make a 1/3 size replica of the Stanley cup <vbg>
>>>>>
>>>>>Well, it appears 'dixie cup' might be a better word.
>>>>>
>>>>>Much as I wanted to believe in what Mark posted, I had my doubts. It's unfortunate that the most exciting of all sports (IMO) also has the greatest labor difficulties. At the very least, I hope they get things on track for a complete season next year.
>>>>
>>>>Agreed. The owners also need to fire Bettman and hire someone like Bob Gainey. The league does not need a lawyer from the NBA's front office who is clueless about hockey and has zero respect of, and is hated by, the players. Someone like Gainey who has played, is a Hall of Famer, coached and GMed an NHL team, won Cups as a player and GM, is what the league needs to rebuild itself.