Re-Alignment

[Capncrunch44]

With Bettman and the NHL owners discussing re-alignment and a reduction of divisions back to four from the existing six, what does everyone think about it?

-- I think it's about time.  If this re-alignment is stage one of a two stage process where the next move is contraction and the elimination of franchises from non-hockey markets then I am extremely happy.  I've always contended that a 30 team pool diluted the talent available and with the new era of salary caps I think that borderline players are being given roster positions due cheap salary over genuine hockey talent.  Don't get me wrong, I am in favour of a salary cap to keep team spending in line, but the league needs to have some exceptions to the cap similar to the NBA.  The Penguins for example should be able to label Sidney Crosby as a franchise player and cornerstone for the future.  A portion of his salary, however high it climbs should be cap exempt.  There should be an orginal draft pick exception either by giving a select number of players that can qualify for it or by allowing a certain amount to be exempt from all homegrown draft picks.  That way teams aren't losing their stars to free agency every season or whenever contracts expire and they can afford to put the best talented player into positions on their teams instead of the cheapest possible solution. 

This idea would in effect help the Penguins retain some of the young star talent they now have longer then the initial rookie contract that was negotiated or the seven year free agency deal from the new CBA.  It wouldn't have helped a team like Ottawa retain Zdeno Chara though.  For the Leafs a portion of Sundin's contract would likely be covered by this type of system allowing for more cap room to bring in better talent.

[Naffael]

Agree with you here except for the contraction part... I don't think the NHL or Bettman will ever allow this, no matter how bad it gets. Move yes, contract no...

[D.encug]

the idea of a "dealer only" tool sort of puts my mind at ease. I scheduled an alignment for next week at the dealer here just to avoid having to find another place that could do it right. They

[D.encug]

i need a cheap place to do alignment. i just raised my car and changed both axles