nomorekids said:
Nice reach there, chum.
Zetterberg, Kovalchuk Ruutu...likely grew up dreaming to play in the NHL. It's, BY FAR, the most competitive, highest level that a hockey player can get to. In the long run, the most money is available in the NHL.
Conversely, do you think that Crosby...or any hockey player in North America...dreams of one day lacing them up for "Lugano," "Davos" or even "Ak-Bars Kazan?" Doubtful.
It's his perogative if he wants to go play in Europe...but it's mine to look down upon him for it. Leave it to you to turn this into another "boo-hoo, the new system will be so evil" post.
(Forgetting for a minute the fact I don't think he is going to Europe)
I'm surprised by your attitude here.
This sort of centrist, elitist attitude is exactly what you get hammered with all the time when people piss you off about the unworthy Preds, the cowboy hats and all that **** on why Nashville doesn't deserve a franchise.
Then you turn around and piss on other options and the people who reportedly might consider them.
I thoroughly hate the financial system in the NHL and think rookie caps are moronic. More and more players are going to at least consider the option now. It's even more obvious they will do so as long as a deal isn't signed.
And while it may not apply to Crosby, I know tons of people who would give teir left nut to go to Europe and work there for a few years and even take a salary cut to do so.
Anyway, I don't think Crosby is seriously considering Europe. His agent would be CRAZY not to look at all the options, especially until there is a CBA in place. Then after that, they can get out the calculator and see if the system makes sense or if there's something out there better for Crosby should he be interested.
But hypothetically, if he decided to leave for Europe, I don't see what's the big deal. Players leave all the time for the NHL or other destinations. You've had your share of imports on the Preds and I don't see you looking down on them.
You're right when you say it's your prerogative to look down on him, but it makes you look exactly like other people you despise and is inconsistent with your usual views. You're not the center of the world, nor are your interests (like the NHL).
I have more trouble with veterans who go for cash because they have huge bank accounts. Sydney Crosby is at the start of his career. All it takes is one injury to put an end to it. Doesn't even have to happen on the ice. At this stage, it is wise for him to consider all financial options at his disposal because he's going to instantly secure not only his future but the future of his family with it.
When you think of how close guys like Robyn Regehr came close to never playing, it makes you pause... at least it does for me.
Anyway, a word of warning: if the NHL is bound for the cap (which I think is bright) and bound for rookie maxes (which is unfair, flawed, stupid and misguided) you better get used to it because some youngsters will definitly not cross, and some North Americans might even start in Europe. They aren't slaves or personal toys and they can damn well play where they wish. Condemning them for it is just petty.
Europe is amazing, and there's a great skill level there. Enough that in a few years, a couple of youngsters could put a league or two on the map.