Bits and Pieces 4/22/08

by: Frank Carpano

Bits and Pieces

• For the first time in a long time I was genuinely excited and interested in the Boston Bruins. Their recent series against the Canadiens restored my faith in the Black and Gold. It may also have to do with the fact that after attending their first game this season, my 2 young daughters also got excited. I don’t think hockey is a great sport to watch on TV. But high-definition certainly makes it more palatable.

• Did you see the Montreal riot footage? Rioting after your team wins a big game has become cliché! It typically isn’t the most diehard fans who cause the trouble, but rather people who are looking for a reason to wreak havoc.

• The Providence Bruins certainly look like the team to beat for the Calder Cup. Now that the Boston Bruins season has ended, look for some of the Boston players (those with 2-way contracts) to return to Providence to help the P-Bruins.

• The circus arrives at the Dunkin Donuts Center next week, which will impact the P-Bruins home playoff schedule.

• The Boston Celtics have also revived my interest. My favorite moment from Game 1 of their playoff series with the Hawks was when Leon Powe slammed one home and landed on the floor. Seconds later Sam Cassell and Kevin Garnett were hovering over him landing congratulatory slaps on their teammate. When Powe got up to go to the benchm, K-G wasn’t done. He followed him all the way and it was obvious Garnett kept talking to Powe, no doubt telling him how great a play it was. It’s hard not to love someone like KG for that enthusiasm he shows during the game.

• Did you see Lance Armstrong finish the Boston Marathon? His time was just under 3 hours and nowhere near the top of the standings. However, Armstrong received a heroes welcome, complete with a finish line banner that he ran through as he crossed the finish line. The same banner usually reserved for the winner. So, what’s up with that?

• Manny Ramirez should play for a new contract every year.