Since shootouts are again becoming a topic of discussion and they are proving
to be wildly popular with the unwashed masses, I figured I do a rerun of my
two shootout analogies that so many people liked last year.
 
Just to set the stage, HOCKEY-L opinions were overwhelmingly against shootouts
as were discussions at the NC$$ Finals.  I was moderately in favor of them as
long as they did not become too important.
 
Here goes:
 
HOCKEY-L and NC$$ Final gatherings are not at all representative
of college hockey fans in general.  Folks, we
are the true believers.  To make an analogy that I hope no one finds offensive,
we are the church choir.  Mike Machnik is the preacher and Wayne is a deacon.
JohnH and Tony are in the front row yelling "Amen!" all the time.  Shootouts
are aimed at the "sinners and backsliders," those who infrequently appear at
the Chapel of St. Rink.  To try to convert these unbelievers we're just trying
to add some sizzle to the services.  It's understandable, however, that some
members of the choir might think that Tina Turner (in the form of shootouts)
is a little *too much* sizzle.  :-)
 
Preach it brother!
 
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[and analogy number 2...]
 
I've read opinions that the ultimate NC$$ goal is to have shootouts for all
conferences and they would count as part of the tournament selection criteria.
If that *is* the ultimate goal, then IMO shootouts will assume too much
importance and I'll switch from my tepid support to active resistance.
 
At that point I'll claim that shootouts are like a cigarette after sex.
Unnecessary, and bad for the ultimate health of the main activity.  :-)
 
 
DaveH