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In a previous edition of this newsletter two weeks back, I referenced the release of a new book by iconic NFL journalist Peter King, taking the opportunity to reflect on what I view as the golden era of online sports journalism during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Devotees of King’s writing will recall that a standout element of his famous Monday Morning Quarterback column on the Sports Illustrated site was the “10 Things I Think I Think” feature, where he mixed insider news with personal takes and commentary regarding football alongside whatever else caught his attention. Beyond being both insightful and fun, this format was hugely influential throughout sports journalism, with numerous writers adapting the style for themselves over time.
Now, it is my moment to borrow from Peter King! My mind is constantly filled with various stray thoughts and opinions about sports, and I thought sharing them in this newsletter occasionally would be enjoyable. So, without further ado, here are three observations I hold:
1. I feel dissatisfied with the current era of player empowerment in the NHL.
In modern media, which leans heavily toward supporting athletes, criticizing a player for seeking a trade despite their existing agreement is generally frowned upon. However, I want to emphasize that this shift toward an NBA-like culture in the NHL carries consequences, and currently, Canadian supporters appear to be suffering the brunt of it.
Over the past twelve months, prominent American players such as Quinn Hughes (Vancouver), Brady Tkachuk (Ottawa), and most recently Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg) forced trades away from Canadian franchises by informing management of their desire to leave. Every one of these players had over a year remaining on their deals, with Hellebuyck having five full seasons left.
Both Tkachuk and Hellebuyck secured no-movement terms in their deals, using that leverage—quite within their rights—to steer themselves to preferred destinations. Hellebuyck, who debuts for New Jersey this evening, selected a Devils squad he considers capable of competing for a Stanley Cup. Tkachuk linked up with his elder brother Matthew on the Florida Panthers, a dominant team seeking a third title in four seasons. While Hughes lacked full trade protection, his apparent preference for playing in the U.S. likely discouraged rival Canadian franchises from tendering strong offers to Vancouver before his trade to Minnesota last December.
Franchises outside Canada are confronting similar scenarios as well. Thus far, Hughes has passed on an extension with Minnesota, putting him on track for unrestricted free agency come July. Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings are actively trying to trade former captain Dylan Larkin after his off-season request. Still, it remains clear that Hughes has little interest in returning to a Canadian team, whereas Larkin, utilizing his no-move clause, allegedly compiled a ten-team trade list that entirely excludes Canadian organizations.
Should there be any positive takeaway from these rejections, it lies in how adeptly—and humorously—Canadian fanbases voice their frustration. During Tkachuk’s return match in Ottawa last week, spectators showered him with non-stop jeers, derogatory banners, and explicit chants. Hughes’ return to Vancouver over the weekend proved slightly calmer (perhaps as time softens the blow), yet remained entertainingly hostile. Furthermore, I eagerly anticipate the reception Winnipeg fans will give Hellebuyck when the goaltender, known for postseason struggles, returns to play before one of the league’s most fervent crowds on Nov. 10.
2. I believe the drafted legislation aiming to curb sports betting advertisements is a positive step.
This week, the federal standing committee on Canadian heritage plans to convene and vote regarding Bill S-211, legislation seeking to establish “a national framework to regulate sports betting advertising in Canada and to set national standards for the prevention of risk for persons negatively impacted.” In part, the draft mandates that this structure incorporate steps for “restricting the use of such advertising… or to limiting or banning the participation of celebrities and athletes in the promotion of sports betting.” Should the committee pass it, the proposal, having cleared the Senate, will advance to a third and final vote within the House of Commons.
Such action is well past due. Ever since federal authorities legalized single-event sports wagering in 2021, delegating oversight to individual provinces, predictable outcomes have emerged—including elevated gambling activity among minors and individuals facing “a heightened risk of harms,” as detailed in the bill’s introductory notes. Studies confirm that greater exposure to betting commercials escalates gambling behaviors, an unsurprising reality in an era when placing a wager requires merely accessing a smartphone, where numerous platforms deliver seamless mechanisms intended to drain your bank account.
However, what many failed to predict was the sheer volume of sports betting commercials bombarding viewers whenever a broadcast is on. An investigation sponsored by CBC News revealed that betting promotions or brand logos appeared two to three times every minute throughout the previous season’s NHL postseason.
Even putting aside potential social detriments, the marketing is simply incredibly frustrating—particularly when viewing games alongside children. Ideally, society will eventually look back on this period of unchecked gambling advertisement much like we currently view historical tobacco commercials.
3. Although somewhat niche, I hold that players shouldn’t be permitted to punch at the football without facing penalties for missing.
Followers of the NFL are likely aware of the “Peanut Punch,” a move originated by ex-Chicago Bears cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman, where a defender strikes with a precisely timed fist to knock the ball free and create a fumble. Because turnovers exert a major impact on game outcomes, this tactic has become widespread and is now a standard element in most defensive game plans.
Yet, things have gotten out of hand. In recent weeks, I have observed multiple occasions where a defender attempts the Peanut Punch but whiffs completely on the football, landing a blow on the ball carrier instead. A glaring case occurred last Sunday when 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw struck Falcons star receiver Drake London directly in the head.
I am not calling for a complete ban on the Peanut Punch. However, if a defender misses and connects with an opponent’s body (most notably the head or neck region), it ought to result in a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness.
