Can't we all just be a little more like Drapes?

OK, OK. So I'm a smartass. Anyone who knows me knows that and I also admit that if I learn something, I'm not afraid to use it later. Last week, I was seeking redemption from Waterford Twp, this week, I'm seeking redemption from a couple of my friends who, once they read that last blog of mine, will be humorously appalled by my use of hockey names, especially since at least two of them are big time Draper fans. I might be writing this to win back lost points, dig myself out of a grave, or perhaps try to break THOSE kind of Wings fans from their blurry vision of hockey. I might also be trying to prove that what happened between two teams is ancient history, all the major players have moved on and the fans should as well.

So let me begin at the beginning:

Jase, Zetts, and Prongs do not count since they were part of the game I worked and would have inevitabley been talked about anyway. I said I still didn't like Pronger; no points lost.

• Peter Forsberg: Yes, he is one of my favorites. No, this doesn't merit lost points either. He is a consistently great player and has done insurmountable things for the NHL. So he used to be an Avalanche and was part of the Massacre Team, so what? Drapes has gotten over it, you should too. Do you think I didn't say this just to get you all riled up? Besides, he's a Flyer now.
• Lemieux: Mario - a great player, no explanation needed. Claude - the dagger-like blow which still stings. Yes, it was painful for even me to write this name, he is enemy #1 and will always remain there. I knew going into it this is what I would have to make up for, but I still couldn't resist the moment of deep and utter disgust. Since I just mentioned Peter, I thought I would strike while the iron was hot, which also brings me to...
• Patrick Roy: the second greatest goalie to play (Terry Sawchuck being number one). Like Forsberg, you can't deny him the accomplishments he earned while in net for the Canadiens and Avs.
• Dominik Hasek: I hate him, you hate him, he needs to go back to the Czech and stay away from the NHL. Another blow, but things are getting better.
• Al MacInnis: He played last for the Blues during the years when that team was a major rivalry to Detroit. I mentioned his name because he retired this year and his presence is missed by some - largely those in St. Louis. I don't care about him either way, but he was a decent player when he wasn't being a pain in the Wings' ass.
• Luc Robitaille: recently retired Lucky Luc, everyone loves this guy. Brownie points are starting to be built back.
• Joe Sakic: same class as Stevie, a leader who provides motivation in the locker room through actions more than words. While Joe isn't in the same caliber of Stevie because Stevie stands alone, Joe isn't far behind.
• Curtis Joseph: Cuj is the best, nothing else can be said. I wish his stay in Detroit was more pleasant and I hope one day he doesn't resent his decision to leave his beloved TO to come here.
• Darren McCarty: two moments from my favorite Grinder: Goal against Philly in the 97 Cup Finals and him beating the shit out of Claude Lemieux the year after he busted Draper's jaw.
• Brett Hull: retired with class for the jackass that he was and records that will be hard to beat.
• Kirk Maltby: I felt as though I had to add his name to this list. It only seemed like the right thing to do.
• Kris Draper: Who doesn't love this guy? Unlike some of his fans, he doesn't hold grudges and finds it within himself to forgive and forget.
• Chris Chelios: I like Cheli and he's played better this year than he has in the past couple. His chili is also very good.
• Tomas Holmstrom: He has the best accent on the team. His gold medal is also very, very nice.
• Brendan Shanahan: Who doesn't get pumped up when the jig is played? Even I like hearing that music.
• Steve Yzerman: Duh. Of course he's my favorite player. Was there ever really any doubt?