SENSible1*
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Tom_Benjamin said:It is a pretty stupid point. The top level AHL player is virtually indistinguishable from the players in NHL pressboxes. The players in NHL pressboxes is virtually indistinguishable from the last few guys who get to dress. So what?
The difference between the top NHL players and the top AHL players is vast. The difference between the average NHL and average AHL player is vast. The difference between NHL hockey and the hockey presented by replacement players - failed AHL players and ECHL stars - is vast.
Tom
You widely overestimate both the difference and fans abitlity to tell the difference.
What is the difference between today's NHLer and 10 years ago?
20 years?
30 years?
Without a common refernece point, most can't tell the difference, but if you had a time machine and could put all the era's on the ice together the improvements in strength, conditioning, year round training and coaching would make the difference obvious.
The same factor would take place with replacement players who would likely be a mixture of AHLers, europeans and 3th/4th liners who had crossed.
You're also not realizing that the average guy on the street doesn't have such a militant attitude toward either side in this. He's the one that they need to make money, and he won't pay full pop to see 2nd rate talent.
Try reading what the average fan thinks by reading TSN feedback on any lockout articles. I think you'll find that the vast majority would like to see the PA take a big fall and would willingly support replacement hockey. BTW, the NHL will not be asking anyone to pay anywhere near "full pop" to see whatever hockey they put on the ice next, especially if it features replacement players.