Hockey Happening @ Flames Blog Theo @ Heatley

The Ottawa Senators finally managed to deal disgruntled Danny Heatley to San Jose Sharks. The Senators were really put in a no-win position with the demands of Heater. The Sharks sent Milan Michalek and Johnathan Cheechoo and a second  rounder for Danny Heatley and a fifth rounder.

So how did the Sens do?  Could the Sens have gotten more if the Danny Heatley lightened up on his demands for the Oilers trade, for example. To be fair, Milan is an outstanding young player who has skating to burn, and who has a quick release. Johnathan is a wild card; he once scored 58 goals with some guy named Joe Thorton. He is supposed to be good.  So can Cheech get back to his scoring ways?  If he can get his confidence back, the Sens did not do too bad in the deal; but that is a big if.

When you think of what the Sens went through in trying to deal Heatley, getting anything was a miracle.  So how much credit does Bryan Murray get for pulling off this trade?  I have been the first to jump all over Bryan, so it’s about time I give him kudos for this deal. He gets a good young stud and a sniper who has success in years pass. I think he did amazingly well for the position he was put in.  I give him thumbs up for this move. Good job, Mr. Murray.

In Calgary, the Flames have decided to give Theo a tryout this camp. He is in Calgary right now getting his physical.  Do not  underestimate the love that the city has for him, and more importantly, how this city feels about Theo.  We remember him from his earlier days when he was a hero in Flames fans’ eyes.

Theo has overcome all the odds in overcoming his addictions. to me he is already a winner, whether this works out or not. The Flames are in this for the team. I know Mr. Sutter, he does nothing for the benefit of his own health.  Just forget about a publicity stunt, the Flames are not desperate for fan support. They are an all-class organization who will do anything for the fans, they will do what it takes to win.  That knowledge will only add to Theo’s confidence that such a high-class organization would have faith and give him a chance, and more importantly, believe he can contribute.  Never underestimate the power of a person’s self worth.  Good on ya, Theo. I truly want this to work out. Not only because it’s for the Flames, but because I am a fan.

Truly, sometimes we forget these players are people with lives.  Theo has proven to me that however much this game means to these players, that it is more than just a livelihood. We often put them on this pedestal, then throw them out to the dogs when they do not live up to our standards. I do not mean preach, but in all honesty, this is only a game. Life is far more important.

We need to stand behind the players, whether they make mistakes or not. We were all so busy making fun of him that no-one bothered to offer any kind of support. To me, this is the feel-good story of the year. Let’s really offer our support to him, even if he does not make it. Sometimes, life needs a feel-good story.  I love this game and the players  truly love this game and their fans. So just maybe we should offer some support  to them once in a while.

This is my most favorite time of year, getting ready for the year and taking my son to the Flames camp. Spending time with my son is far more important to me than a win or loss.  This game does wonderful things for the community. It’s a wonderful game; lets take time to enjoy it.

Until next time, take care.

Randy.