Late August tends to be one of the slowest parts of the hockey season. Significant free agents were locked up weeks ago and it's over a month until training camps open up. That's why the Tomas Kaberle trade rumours received so much attention a year ago.
So this year the buzz is about the health status of Sidney Crosby. Each week another rumour comes out quoting an unnamed sources insisting that Crosby has had a set back and will not be ready for the start of the season. Usually this is followed by a statement from the Penguins organization or Crosby's agent Pat Brisson denying the rumour.
Fans are split between those who believe the rumours and those who do not. Frankly anyone who actualy knows what is going on, is not talking. Sure Brisson, coach Dan Bylsma and GM Ray Shero have denied the allegations. But they have all been very careful in responding the rumours. "He is coming along", "making progress", "we hope he'll be ready." But no one has actually said Crosby has recovered from his concussion. And until he has recovered no one can predict when he will be better.
What is not clear is why the evasiveness? Perhaps the lack of transparency is attributed to the fact the Penguins are actively selling tickets right now. Those tickets are a tougher sell without the game's marquee in the lineup.
As time goes on, it will become obvious if Crosby will play. But it is disconcerting to know that important information is not being passed on to fans. They have a right to know.
Meanwhile the debate roars on with respect hits to the head.
No comments:
Post a Comment