THN.com Blog: Who do you want to read in THN?
Jason Kay
2008-09-06 00:51:28
I got a call last Thursday morning from senior writer Mike Brophy, asking if I wanted to go for lunch.
Red flags, air-raid sirens and “last minute of play in this tenure” alerts should have gone off immediately because “Broph” – as he insisted I refer to him on his first day on the job 16 years ago – was on vacation. Heck, it’s tough enough to get him to come into the office when he’s on the clock, never mind when he’s enjoying his five-week summer healing retreat.
Somehow, mired in my own world, I was oblivious to what was imminent…until he arrived at the office about an hour later, shut my door and sat down. That’s when I knew Broph’s days as one of the leading voices and faces of The Hockey News were drawing to an end.
If you haven’t heard, Broph is leaving us at the end of next week to join Rogers full-time. He’ll be doing more TV work for Sportsnet, hosting a radio program two days a week and, ahem, writing for a competitor’s website.
Naturally, we were saddened by the news. Broph has broad-based appeal with our audience and his contributions will be dearly missed. His departure creates a void on our team in terms of leadership, camaraderie and humor, too. The man knows how to tell stories and make others laugh (but that’s a blog/column for another time).
On a personal level, it stings because Broph is a very close friend, a sage advisor and a sounding board.
Life, however, goes on. And while we may not unearth another Broph immediately, the challenge of replacing him also presents us with an opportunity.
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For starters, like an NHL team that ranks high in Future Watch, we have an abundance of young talent at THN and we’re excited as they continue to grow into stars.
At the same time, our brand name gives us the ability, and credibility, to attract established writers and hockey personalities to lend their voices to our mix.
And that’s where you come in. We’d like to know whose work you’d like to read in the pages of The Hockey News and web pages of thn.com.
We’re viewing this as a clean sheet of ice; we’ll consider every name, from veteran hockey writers and columnists, to broadcasters, to former players and executives. If there’s someone out there you feel would enhance our product, let us know.
Add a comment below and debate the merits of potential contributors; or email us at letters@thehockeynews.com.
Thanks in advance.
Jason Kay is the editor in chief of The Hockey News and a regular contributor to THN.com. His blog appears every weekend.
For more great profiles, news and views from the world of hockey, Subscribe to The Hockey News magazine.
Frank Foley (Posted 2008-12-08 19:30:25)
Bill Meltzer is the only person I turn to for hockey insight these days. Having been burned by false rumors and faked injury reports from guys who have absolutely no base for their claims, I now only read Meltzer for the final word on the Philadelphia Flyers and other international goings-on in the world of hockey. The man spends his vacations in places like Finland digging up hockey info. He has a problem.
The other thing he has is historic perspective and he almost never follows the herd by simply railing against the goalie who's on a cold streak. He takes events in the context of a whole season.
Andrea W. (Posted 2008-11-18 10:55:19)
Bill Metzler, no doubt. Theres no sports writer that even comes close to having his dedication, understanding, and passion for the sport of hockey. Not only that, but he is a very talented writer with the ability to lay it all down so that even the most basic of hockey fans understands what he is saying. Please make this guy your next columnist.
tockeyhockey (Posted 2008-10-15 11:08:49)
wow! i had already posted before i went down and read all the other comments. i know it looks like someone's been stuffing the ballot box, but it's not the case. meltzer really is the best hockey writer i've ever read, and he's only doing it part time. it's an inside joke in philadelphia that the guys at the inquirer and daily news get paid to do what meltzer does as a hobby. he really is excellent and while we would miss his coverage of the flyers, he would do excellent things for the entire sport if he were to get a national gig. and that's more important.
tockeyhockey (Posted 2008-10-15 10:57:26)
Take a long hard look at the consistent work of Bill Meltzer. His dedication to the game and knowledge is astounding to me. He follows the Russian leagues in the offseason, if you can believe that.
The guy is an absolute gem. THN would be a better publication if they had him.
Chad Mills (Posted 2008-10-13 15:46:53)
Bill Meltzer is the best candidate. Nobody else is even in the same league.
Rajiv Sinha (Posted 2008-09-21 08:55:21)
Bill Meltzer is the best hockey writer I have read and for a Philly Flyers fan it will be the biggest loss if he does move on to Hockey News and stops writing his blog on Flyers. But it will be a gain to the hockey community to have one of the hidden gem finally in the limelight he deserves. His opinion is unbiased and reflects his hockey knowledge, detailed insight, professional approach, fan appeal and pulse, etc.
Matt (Posted 2008-09-20 14:29:41)
Bill Meltzer. its not even close. one of the best writers in hockey right now
Lisa (Posted 2008-09-18 10:35:35)
Without a doubt, Bill Meltzer from Hockeybuzz.
Tom M (Posted 2008-09-17 20:51:28)
Bill Meltzer is an excellent writer and the best choice by far! This man lives hockey and he is the ONLY reason I frequent hockeybuzz online. I would gladly rather come here to read his articles! :)
Rob Levin (Posted 2008-09-17 17:20:21)
Bill Meltzer is the best hockey writer I've ever read (and I've read a few). He consistently destroys any of the local philly newspaper writers in both his in depth analysis and also his questioning of the team coaching and management (which the others writers won't go near for fear of being left out of the club). He understands the game on a very detailed level and also has expert knowledge of the game throughout the world (which he reports on regularly). His talents are wasted on Hockeybuzz IMO as that blog pretty much sucks (ie - Eklund and his stupid dog) except for him. The hockey news would be lucky as hell to have a writer of his caliber. All they and his detractors in these comments need to do is read samples of his work on Hockeybuzz to know it.
Rob Woerner (Posted 2008-09-17 16:58:33)
I must also tout the abilities and passion of Bill Meltzer. In addition to tireless work on NHL news, he also provides expert information on all levels of European hockey, as well as little known hockey outposts around the globe (including, but not limited to: Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia). All this accomplished while holding down a full-time job outside the hockey media. I can't imagine the heights he--and his readers--could reach if he were given significant access to insider connections.
Flapjacks (Posted 2008-09-15 22:54:09)
I'm going with Bill Meltzer. For those of you who are not familiar with his work, he is ALOT more than just a blogger at hockey buzz. Great insight into the game. His articles are well read and I would love to see him get the chance to write for THN.
Barry J (Posted 2008-09-14 15:21:43)
Definitely Bill Meltzer.
Flyers4297 (Posted 2008-09-11 21:16:53)
how about picking a guy who doesnt kiss crosby's ass.
Bill Meltzer is the most unbiased, underrated hockey writer out there. his hard work and dedication to tell stories about the sport he loves is unbelievable.
he's not a Mike Duthie, McGuire or McKenzie who kisses the players ass on a consistent basis.
Stephen J. Holodinsky (Posted 2008-09-10 19:04:45)
Mike Duthie of TSN fame would be a great addition but would probably cost lots o bucks. You could always fight fire with fire and go after Jim Kelley from Sportsnet. Big bucks as well but as Adam Proteau already appears there once in a while on Primetimesports, there might already be a workable arrangement in place where Kelley keeps his TV gig but writes for THN. However probably the best guy to go and get would be Dave Molinari from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. The guy just flat out knows his stuff and has a good writing style. He'd be my pick
Matthew Gingras (Posted 2008-09-10 15:39:04)
Bill Meltzer is the best most unbiased reporter out there. So many people who have been around the game and have played the game get so many things wrong and conveniently skip over very important pieces of a discussion just to make their argument or observation look like the correct one. Bill NEVER does this. He rarely misses anything and if he does he's the first to take responsibility for it. There are too many writers out there that give you the Cliff's Notes on every situation. This is not Bill.
Josiah Hunter (Posted 2008-09-09 17:17:35)
Again, people, listen to Salim!!! He's got it down. The fans are who we want to hear in THN!!! All of you voting for Meltzer: If you had to choose between him and yourself, who would you choose? I'm sure the majority of you would choose yourselves, simply so you could spread your own perspective farther that chat room message boards and low-level blogs. I bet if THN could get at least 2 fan articles in per week, the magazine would get about 2000 more readers (exaggeration, I'm not really going to guess a number). GET THE FANS IN THN!!!!!!
And for those of you who might mention Letters to the Editor, that's not actually that big. I've written a few times and had my letters on the site and once in the actual publication, but that doesn't leave me with fans raving for my blogs, plainly because not enough people read the letters. Tons of people read the article: talk about exposure!
Salim Valji (Posted 2008-09-09 16:50:57)
I don't think this is even a question....it HAS to be the fans....
we're the ones making the magazine what it is, we're the reason why guys like Jason Kay have a job, for crying out loud. We pay money for this magazine; and no one would put it down just because Brophy isn't writing anymore. Imagine how many people would pick UP the magazine if they knew they could be in it!
Chris H (Posted 2008-09-09 08:29:17)
You can write about ANYTHING regarding hockey. Except for one topic. MATS SUNDIN. This thing is 10 times worse than the Farve fiasco a few weeks/months back.
Miguel (Posted 2008-09-09 08:02:34)
I have to agree with Brennan. McGuire, McKenzie, McCown or Pedneault would all make excellent contributors to THN. I however would add Jim "Boomer" Gordon the mix. He isnt very well know due to the fact that he is on XM Radio, but he is an excellent voice on NHL Home Ice that needs to have more of his opinions heard.
Bruce (Posted 2008-09-09 00:48:18)
Cherry? McGuire? Are you guys kidding me...grapes can barely speak much less write and if there's a less object voice in hockey than Pierre McGoo's then I can't think of whose it is. You might as well change the THN's name to the Sidney Crosby Chronicle...Brophy was one of the best writers at THN and one of the few whom it was always worth reading. That's a shame that he's retiring. You would certainly not be able to get him on a full-time basis, but to fill Brophy's shoes you need someone legitimate and there is really only one print journalist like that in hockey: Stan Fischler. I think he's kind of busy with his current (highly respectable) job but you should offer him all kinds of money to get him even to write once in a while. At one time I also respected E.J Hradek...then he started that stupid radio show and I have to say I have almost no respect at all left for the guy. Still, he's probably better than many of your current writers. What about that Boris guy who's always writing on your blog comments...I mean you'd need a good copy editor because he evidently can't spell (at least in English)...
Anne Martinot (Posted 2008-09-09 00:37:16)
I would like to suggest you hire Bruce Dowbiggin full time...that would get him out of Calgary and do all the fans a favour.
person (Posted 2008-09-08 21:01:35)
bob macknzie sounds great but i dont think hed sign i like kennedy and cambell
chucky g (Posted 2008-09-08 20:39:54)
bill meltzer
Brennan (Posted 2008-09-08 19:01:36)
ANY OF THESE GUYS:
Don Cherry, Pierre McGuire,Bob McKenzie, Kevin Allen,Rick Westhead, Yvon Pednault, and Bob McCown(even if he is disagreeable the most.)
Msfno1 (Posted 2008-09-08 18:29:20)
Bill Meltzer is the best candidate.
Josiah Hunter (Posted 2008-09-08 17:58:11)
I agree wholeheartedly with Salim Valji!!!! I'm 14, and one of my biggest goals is to see an article of main in any sort of hockey magazine. Imagine how any fan would feel seeing a piece of their work in the most highly regarded hockey magazine in the world! This is what THN really needs. Yeah, yeah, there's about 49 pro writers out there with voices that people want to here in THN, but if they already have employment or at least a highly popular blog, why not read their work there? Get someone fresh and new, that people have heard, but the whole world should hear! Put up the fans on THN, and more fans will read their fellow fans!
Geocache (Posted 2008-09-08 17:39:38)
I agree. Enough wiht Meltzer. By he's a "good writer". everyone must mean "boring", "humourless", "staid". At least get someone who can talk intelligently about hockey outside of Phillie. I'm no fan of Torts, and I'm not sure Cherry knows how to write columns/blogs, but you could bet either one would throw plenty of bombs for people to talk about. (I still vote for Duthie - has a good international view of the game and is funny as hell.)
Salim Valji (Posted 2008-09-08 17:02:42)
You know who I would like to see in THN? Me, and other fans; that's who! What a perfect opportunity to showcase the people who make the magazine famous: the readers. I'm not just talking about a small rant to the editor, I'm talking full-fledge sports article here. So what if we can't interview anyone other than a janitor at the arena? We still have a ton of knowledge about the game, and have our own unique opinions. Have a contest every week and the best article gets put in the magazine. Obviously there will be word limits and guidelines.
Heck, I'm 16. It is my GOAL to become a sports writer. Imagine the thrill if I got to see one of MY articles on newsstands across North America?
ZZeke (Posted 2008-09-08 16:33:20)
For those who do not know Bill Meltzer's work, he is not only an excellent blogger, but he writes columns for NHL.com, INSIDE HOCKEY, Hockey's Future, Pro Hockey Euro Report, as well as HockeyBuzz. He is excellent on the NHL as well as international hockey. Here is a link to some of his work on NHL.com:
http://labs.daylife.com/journalist/bill_meltzer
Daniel Paul (Posted 2008-09-08 14:45:53)
Jason, for the sake of your reader's collective sanity, I'm begging you to please end this thread and close off all further discussion. This might have sounded like a promising idea but as you can see, it quickly devolved into pure unadulterated nonsense. Ask Edward Fraser if there is a way to block the IP addresses assigned to the greater Philadelphia area from making any and all comments to any and all stories posted on THN as I have yet to read a single comment that was worth reading. Flyers fans... God help us...
T. Cushen (Posted 2008-09-08 13:59:19)
Bill Meltzer and the Hockey news are a perfect match. Unlike contemporaries like Brooks (NY Post) Strachan (Toronto Sun) or Garrioch (Ottawa Sun) Meltzer actually writes about Hockey and does not simply try and sell papers through rumour mongering. I've enjoyed his "beat" coverage of the Philadelphia Flyers for a few years now. I was shocked when the Philadelphia Enquirer did not pick him up as a replacement to Tim Pannachio last year. As previously mentioned, his knowledge of the European Game is exceptional for essentially an unaccredited journalist.
James Finney (Posted 2008-09-08 13:58:32)
Don Cherry would bring a nice balance. Plenty of people would despise him (many already do), but he would be good balance to all the views about softening play and getting rid of fighting (which can be very difficult, if not impossible to find counterpoints to outside of the comments). There are a lot of former players that I would love to read articles by - Cam Neely, Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Dale Hunter, Joe Nieuwendyk, and Ray Bourque just to name a few
matt (Posted 2008-09-08 13:41:44)
TORTS!!!!
JMC (Posted 2008-09-08 13:28:27)
Bill Meltzer, hands down. One of the best writers out there and brings a good understanding of the game in Europe as well.
Mark (Posted 2008-09-08 13:24:18)
I love John Bucci on ESPN, has an incredible sense of humor, and is brings a lot of personality into everything he writes, makes his articles very personal. Would love to see him as a guest writer, he would do a terrific job interviewing players and coming up with fresh questions to ask them.
Steve Laurie (Posted 2008-09-08 13:14:40)
How about Ken Dryden, Scotty Bowman, Dick Irvin, Dave Hodge, Phil Esposito or Bobby Orr.
Sean Pawlowski (Posted 2008-09-08 12:47:55)
My vote is with Sean Leahy for sure.
Chris H (Posted 2008-09-08 12:34:20)
Bill Meltzer is an excellent writer and gets my vote.
Kim Ware (Posted 2008-09-08 12:23:57)
Sean Leahy, for sure
The5Hole.com (Posted 2008-09-08 12:19:18)
For the uninformed, Bill Meltzer also writes for NHL.com among others. He is above and beyond what some here consider simply a 'blogger'
Rob Bonter (Posted 2008-09-08 11:59:00)
Norm Jary is my all-time favorite hockey play-by-play broadcaster. I understand he is still around, in Ontario, somewhere. Any overview from Norm from time to time would rivet my attention.
Maali (Posted 2008-09-08 11:58:57)
Sean Leahy of GoingFiveHole! Lest that fall through, I nominate myself Jeremy Roenick. Because he funny.
Finn (Posted 2008-09-08 11:54:25)
Bob Mackenzie? Darren Pang? James Duthie? Pierre MaGuire? lol...... some of these answers! Why don't I throw out Tie Domi's name out there too! His old segments on TSN blew me away every time!
Mike (Posted 2008-09-08 11:37:25)
Bill Meltzer? If you're hiring a hockey blogger from a hack website you might as well hire me. I'm better and I'll come significantly cheaper - just buy me the NHL Center Ice package and its a done deal.
DUHockey9 (Posted 2008-09-08 11:21:09)
Bill Meltzer. He's the best at HockeyBuzz.
TenEighteen (Posted 2008-09-08 10:50:03)
Anyone who is willing to write for free is highly unlikely to write anything that is actually worth reading. In other words, please disregard all pleas to hire a "blogger" and instead focus on hiring a professional wordsmith. You get what you pay for...
Isles Guy (Posted 2008-09-08 10:21:43)
How about B.D. Gallof? I've read him from the blog box and Hockeybuzz. Most entertaining blogger I see out there on the web. From analysis to hilarious images, nobody does it better.
I don't know about you. But I read blogs, and those that entertain, besides inform me is what I like most. BD should be on a short list somewhere.
Cyril Dixon (Posted 2008-09-08 10:19:10)
Definitely Bill Meltzer. I read all kinds of articles/stories by all kinds of hockey writers, and I enjoy Bill Meltzer's work immensely. He is insightful, connected, and dedicated to the sport. He does a great job covering European prospects, and although I am not a Flyers fan, the way he writes about the Flyers always makes me wish he wrote more about other NHL teams. If he wrote for THN, my wish would finally come true. I think you seriously need to consider this guy for your magazine.
Jim Thompson (Posted 2008-09-08 10:14:09)
Bill Meltzer bar none. Most knowledgeable NHL - Ice Hockey in general writer I choose to read.
Carlos B (Posted 2008-09-08 09:55:49)
How about Darren Pang? Love James Duthie'S writing ont TSN.
steve kilp (Posted 2008-09-08 09:27:37)
Bill Meltzer has been consistently good, majority of his coverage has to do with the FLyers, but he has great european league insight as well. Covering the russian, finn, swedish leagues as well as the german and swiss leagues. If there is a player in the system he has in sight, educated informed insight, and usually has talked with someone in the organizations he is writing about. Most of it is from a FLyers perspective because, well, that is where he is located, but he gets a good deal of cred from flyer fans because he does a better job covering the team and hockey in general than any of the beat writers in the city do. He does a complete and thorough job of getting his information to the reader clearly and points out when there is personal verse objective view is being placed in the article.
That is why he is getting such good support, we like him because he does the best job out here.
BK in ATL (Posted 2008-09-08 09:21:14)
I wouldn't mind reading more of Mike Russo in THN. He's got a great blog on the MPLS star tribune's site and a great writer to boot. I still keep reading his stuff despite the fact I'm down in Atlanta.
Dan Doughty (Posted 2008-09-08 09:15:29)
A dark horse candidate: Mike Russo, hockey sage for the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Witty. Insightful. Informative. And a darn good writer.
DanMac (Posted 2008-09-08 07:42:15)
Bill Meltzer gets my vote.
rye&coke (Posted 2008-09-08 06:02:18)
How about Don Cherry if you can get him to agree to it. He is an icon of the game. When he voices his opinion in Canada people pay more attention to him than the Prime Minister. Knowledgeable, outspoken and entertaining. What more can you ask for?
Bill Meltzer (Posted 2008-09-08 02:43:51)
Why do I get the impression a good percentage of these comments are coming from the same IP address? Somebody's stuffing the ballot box.
The back-page columnist at the Hockey News shouldn't be a blogger or some guy who writes for a hobby, but a seasoned pro with contacts out the wazoo, a guy who can pick up the phone and get Bill Daly on the horn just as easily as Scotty Bowman or Joe Thornton.
Larry Brooks would be a must-read. Bucky Gleason would be a great pick. Terry Frei. Scott Burnside. Jim Matheson. Mike Russo. REAL writers with informed opinions.
How often does Meltzer actually interview somebody relevant? I never heard of the guy until I saw this thread so I looked him up at his website. His featured links aren't what you want in The Hockey News. They're like book reports on his favorite Flyers.
He's a solid writer. No qualms there. And you can tell he reads a lot because he's constantly quoting book passages and other people's articles. But how often is he working sources at the arena or in the locker room? Not often if he's quoting other people's work. The credentials are missing right now.
He's just a guy with access to an internet connection.
Let's get real here.
Dave H (Posted 2008-09-08 02:19:28)
Bill Meltzer, no question. Been following his work for years, intelligent and well spoken, and a true fan of the game.
The5Hole.com (Posted 2008-09-08 00:46:20)
Bill Meltzer, no question. Not only is he an expert on the North American leagues, he is by far the most knowledgeable NA writer when it comes to the European and Russian leagues. No other NA writer comes close to his combined knowledge of the North American and International games. His writing is not the typical AP, SI, TSN story, he has a writing 'personality' that keeps you coming back for more. Bill Meltzer is a natural hat trick for THN.
Hart Stoffman (Posted 2008-09-08 00:42:26)
Who is a better read on hockey matters than Ken Dryden?
Dan n StL (Posted 2008-09-07 22:48:26)
I would like to submit Andy Strickland of HockeyBuzz. IMO he is a very entertaining blogger as well as the fact that he has to have very reliable sources in the NHL, since it seems that he has scooped all other NHL media outlets including THN on some of the bigger hockey news stories. for example but not limited too "Scotty Bowman has been offered a job in the Chicago Blackhawks organization."
Matt (Posted 2008-09-07 22:43:31)
I'm on hockeybuzz all the time. It appears I should be reading Bill Meltzer's stuff....
Sean (Posted 2008-09-07 22:42:20)
I vote for Dan Tencer (sp). Bill Meltzer seems popular - who the heck is he?
Rick Gehlhaus (Posted 2008-09-07 21:41:09)
Bill Meltzer is an amazing writer.
Dave (Posted 2008-09-07 20:34:04)
Bill Meltzer is far and way the most insightful hockey writer I know of.
EBGB (Posted 2008-09-07 20:31:53)
wouldn't Bill Melzter be settling to go to thn?... and please no partisan dork Buccigross of espn.
Eddie (Posted 2008-09-07 19:49:03)
There is NO doubt in my mind that Bill Meltzer should get the nod. I find him to be a VERY talented writer and I find his articles to be VERY well done! If I had my choice, HE would be who I would pick and I hope you do as well too!
Thanks a lot, Eddie :-)
Matt (Posted 2008-09-07 19:28:13)
Steve Dryden!
Josh Plummer (Posted 2008-09-07 19:23:02)
How about Mats Sundin? He could work; unless you're looking for someone to make a quick decision and start in the next couple of weeks.
eldrick (Posted 2008-09-07 18:38:32)
how about a dude from the breeding ground for true power forwards, western canada.
jeff (Posted 2008-09-07 18:01:16)
BILL MELTZER
Ed Shavelson (Posted 2008-09-07 17:49:35)
Bill Meltzer..He does a great job. He posts great stories.Plus his inside info is mostly correct he does not like to print stuff that is outragously false when it comes to rumors..
Brian (Posted 2008-09-07 17:32:32)
Bill Meltzer
kaspar (Posted 2008-09-07 17:31:59)
Hunter S Thompson
Alex in AZ (Posted 2008-09-07 17:27:14)
How about a writer not currently writing for a Canadian team or a northeastern US team? Even if they aren't from the US, I don't care... let's just get a different perspective from the Canadian and northeastern US bias.
Anthony (Posted 2008-09-07 17:08:22)
Bill Meltzer. He easily displays the most knowledge of both the NHL and Ice Hockey in general. He is objective, intelligent, and a joy to read.
Paul k (Posted 2008-09-07 17:03:27)
Another vote for Bill Meltzer. He's objective and entertaining.
JamesVix (Posted 2008-09-07 16:58:54)
Aaron Vickers
Jessie (Posted 2008-09-07 16:17:50)
I want to read whomever is going to put thought, research and effort into his writing. It seems that the majority of 'journalists' just write to fill space instead of putting meaningful thought into what they do. Those are a dime a dozen, get someone who gives a crap please.
FlyersFan21 (Posted 2008-09-07 16:17:37)
Bill Meltzer! His content on Hockey Buzz is stuff you can't read elsewhere-- news from the European leagues, original statistical analyses, and insightful breakdown of series. And lots of Flyers content too!
Hockey man (Posted 2008-09-07 15:10:04)
Jamie Mclennan..amazing blogger
Flyer guy 16 (Posted 2008-09-07 14:53:57)
It looks like everyone wants Meltzer, it must be the team he covers.
Ben (Posted 2008-09-07 14:53:36)
Talk about East Coast bias! How about Rich Hammond, who covers the Kings. He's already got a great blog (http://insidesocal.com/kings/).
Shawn (Posted 2008-09-07 14:30:21)
someone who opposes the Instigator rule, please.
Geocache (Posted 2008-09-07 14:08:57)
James Duthie - an amusing and knowledgeable writer. His writing is better than his hosting skills on TSN.
Micha P (Posted 2008-09-07 13:36:37)
anyone young without a bias would be great. No more old, jaded writers, you have more than enough already.
Dave W (Posted 2008-09-07 13:11:25)
Bill Meltzer - One of the best hockey writers out there
Jed Thomas (Posted 2008-09-07 12:53:06)
Bill Meltzer
whatsthatsmell (Posted 2008-09-07 12:52:29)
I want to read about how all the stars are getting their heads knocked off by Philly players every week, just like last year.
Tom (Posted 2008-09-07 12:25:03)
Bill Meltzer for sure. Entertaining and intelligent.
Sheri Rice (Posted 2008-09-07 12:16:30)
Someone who is not down on the New Jersey Devils as hard as Mr. Brophy was. Anyone in my opinion, would be a step up.
Ian (Posted 2008-09-07 12:15:23)
Bill Meltzer for sure. He is pretty much the reason I go to HockeyBuzz.com
Chris (Posted 2008-09-07 12:05:46)
Aaron Portzline
Tyler Cavanaugh (Posted 2008-09-07 11:31:17)
I may sound a little bit off the regular here, but i really enjoyed the work Justin Dickie did over the summer, not only did he do a really good job, but it inspired other young writers like myself (16) that us Atlantic Canadians can make it big with a little time and effort.
Cindy Helmick (Posted 2008-09-07 10:56:48)
Bill Meltzer. Extremely knowledgeable and a very good writer.
Parker James (Posted 2008-09-07 09:59:56)
Jim Butler of Saturday Morning Coffee. He has a unique style of looking at the lighter side of hockey.
Bob (Posted 2008-09-07 09:37:32)
Bill Meltzer
donsol (Posted 2008-09-07 08:37:04)
Jason, this was a great idea. This is off-topic but I would like to suggest that you consider another column like this one in which you would ask your readers for story ideas for upcoming issues. Two in particular that I would pay to read would be a special broadcasting issue in which each team's play-by-play and colour commentators would be profiled along with a network who's who. A issue which explained the stories behind the mask designs of each team's goalies (along with photos) would be quite interesting. My apologies for going off-topic but I thought the idea of on online "Reader's Suggestion Box" was something worth considering. As far as suggestions for writers, everything Eric Duhatschek writes is worth reading so he gets my vote.
Curtis Gale (Posted 2008-09-07 06:02:42)
Bill Meltzer would be a great blogist for THN. Highly knowledgeable in both North American and International Hockey.
Peter Forsberg (Posted 2008-09-07 05:18:26)
O want to see Risto Pakarinen in The Hockey News! He´s one of the best hockey journalists.....
Ryan Garner (Posted 2008-09-07 04:22:38)
Ryan Garner would offer a fresh, young voice, combining extensive hockey knowledge with clear and unbiased reporting. As if his honesty and take-no-prisoners style wasn't enough, this blogging maverick also provides an inspirational story.
At the age of 15, Garner was involved in a terrifying bun toaster accident while working at the Gregoire McDonald's in his hometown of Fort McMurray, Alberta. The incident was reminiscent of Clint Malarchuk's horrifying ordeal, except that it involved a bun toaster rather than a skate blade. Left with 19 stitches and a newfound respect for wet floor signs, Garner's injuries caused him to drop out of the Fort McMurray junior varsity golf tournament later that week. Being a horrible golfer, surely he would have finished in or near last place, but we'll never know for certain.
Today, Garner covers the San Jose Sharks for Hockeybuzz. He's not perfect, and it's true that he once wrote, "Ty Conklin is the next Glenn Resch, and the Oilers will rue the day they let him walk." Those comments were baseless and immature, but they helped mold him into the writer he is today, learning from his mistakes while downplaying his accomplishments. Hiring Garner would not only be a service to THN readers, but would reward a young man who has always taken risks to satisfy the public, whether they're seeking a Quarter Pounder with Cheese or informative hockey coverage.
A Trahan (Posted 2008-09-07 02:27:52)
Dany Dubé, the rest of the hockey world should have the chance to know this great hockey analyst, and James Mirtle.
Todd Rainiz (Posted 2008-09-07 01:37:22)
Bill Meltzer please... thanks
Mark Canson (Posted 2008-09-07 01:05:41)
Bill Meltzer, very intelligent writer.
CelticSean (Posted 2008-09-07 00:18:21)
Meltzer w/o question
Jason Brownell (Posted 2008-09-07 00:05:44)
It would probably never happen due to prior commitments but no one would be better than Ken Dryden.
Peter Anson (Posted 2008-09-07 00:03:54)
Definitely Bill Meltzer - the most insightful & intelligent writer around
Bai Jiansi (Posted 2008-09-06 23:58:10)
Please not someone from Toronto. Someone with a Western Canada perspective could be refreshing. Also, a female writer would be great. There's some very thoughtful ex-NHLers out there: Petr Stastny, Igor Larionov, Joé Juneau... Jamie McLennan's blog was excellent. Marcel Aubut could bring a different perspective, being from Québec City.
Mike (Posted 2008-09-06 23:41:07)
You will not find a hockey journalist that is more knowledgeable and without bias than Bill Meltzer. And he is an excellent writer as well.
Caz (Posted 2008-09-06 23:36:04)
Noodles McLennan
Evan (Posted 2008-09-06 23:18:16)
MELTZER!!! He's the best up and coming hockey writer out there. And he brings a great knowledge of both the NHL and International hockey.
Spikeplug (Posted 2008-09-06 23:07:21)
Darren Dreger, Jim Hughson, Brett Hull, Jeremy Roenick, Patrice Brisson, Eklund, Marcel Aubut, Bill Daly, John Tortorella...stop recycling the old names and bring someone new.
David (Posted 2008-09-06 23:05:50)
Bill Meltzer ftw! Bill is a very talented writer. I very much enjoy his work on hockeybuzz. As a flyer's fan I am very thankful to have Mr. Meltzer.
Scott Kozlowski (Posted 2008-09-06 23:03:41)
My vote, Linda Mankefors. She brings a different perspective to reporting hockey in her current blog. She can go from the NHL to the European leagues and it is enjoyable to read.
spiker97 (Posted 2008-09-06 22:19:30)
Why not Ted Leonsis? Lots of good insight on the whole business of hockey as well as the International game. He would be a good choice.
Matt (Posted 2008-09-06 22:15:54)
It would be nice to see more player blogs and articles
Rich (Posted 2008-09-06 21:36:06)
Bill Meltzer!
Dylan (Posted 2008-09-06 21:25:11)
Bill Meltzer
John (Posted 2008-09-06 21:15:15)
Bill Meltzer.
Bob (Posted 2008-09-06 21:07:40)
Daniel Tolensky
Jacob Faltin (Posted 2008-09-06 21:01:13)
Stan Fischler! Geez, those were the days, eh? Eric Duhatschek wouldn't have to leave the Globe and Mail in order to write for THN. He worked in Calgary with the Herald while writing for THN in the 80's. Scott Morrison would be a first-rate addition but the CBC keeps him pretty busy. Good call, I.J.B. There was an earlier poster who mentioned Steve Dryden - THN's editor from the 90's - and he was an interesting and thoughtful writer. Jay Greenberg and Kevin Dupont are two other names from THN's past who should generate interest. If Bob McKenzie isn't available, get Doug!
Jacob John (Posted 2008-09-06 20:36:19)
Bill Meltzer is a very good writer.
I.J.B. (Posted 2008-09-06 20:17:21)
Prying away Eric Duhatschek from the Globe And Mail would probably be equivalent to prying away Henrik Zetterberg from the wings! It would be a stellar addition to THN team. He has years of experience covering this great game and has done a masterful job of it. Scotty Morrison is another strong candidate in my books. I love seeing him and Pierre LeBrun on HNIC. However you shouldn't consider Al Strachan. His predictions for this year are very questionable and he doesn't seem to know as much about them game as the fellows I've mentioned. Duhatschek, Morrison, and LeBrun - the ultimate journalist dream team!
Habsroy33 (Posted 2008-09-06 20:11:27)
Hey Lawrence,
Ken Beckett writes his own blog over at www.thepowerplay.net
It's really pretty funny. And even though he's a Habs fan, you don't really sense too much bias in his writing.
Chris CSSPORTS (Posted 2008-09-06 19:25:09)
I would like to see Linda Mankefors. I think it would be something new, refreshing. Most of the stuff out there is the same - Lets get a fresh look from an international approach!!!!!
Linda Mankefors
Erik (Posted 2008-09-06 19:02:05)
BILL MELTZER!!
AMac (Posted 2008-09-06 18:19:01)
James Mirtle
JKalata (Posted 2008-09-06 16:43:03)
Eric Duhatschek without a doubt. In order to afford Bob McKenzie THN would have to double their cover price . And I second DS's aversion to Mark Moore. All economies are cyclical by their very nature and as goes the States, so goes Canada.
Greg (Posted 2008-09-06 16:19:20)
Yeah, James, Alan and Ken are truly great, they love the game, which is always important, and they do know exactly what they're talking about. They're writing is first rate, and I'm sure they would be happy to contribute to THN!
James Frederick (Posted 2008-09-06 16:16:46)
I agree with Chris Farley. If you look at Alan Bass and Ken Armer on Bleacher Report, they always seem to know what they are talking about, and have great writing abilities. Perhaps go into that website to find an NHL writer.
Brian P (Posted 2008-09-06 16:10:41)
I really like John Buccigross's online writing for ESPN. Might be worth exploring. As for other TV guys, James Duthie or Jay Onrait's writings are sometimes entertaining. Eric Duhatschek is always good. Same with Jim Matheson, who I've read since I was a kid and never disappoints. A guy I've really come to like from reading him on the Columbus Dispatch's web site is Aaron Portzline. Mike Heika is pretty good. I used to know a lot more talented amateur writers than I do now. But then, I mostly knew amateur writers when I was writing/editing hockey as an amateur myself, so not to toot my own horn, but I was pretty good, though I haven't written an article in more than a year (www.mopsquad.com/hockey).
Chris (Posted 2008-09-06 15:58:18)
I would like to read articles from people not biased about where hockey should be played. Get rid of the folks who dog the U.S. and those who especially bitch about the Southern teams (can't help it, I am bias being a Nashville Predators fan)
Scott S (Posted 2008-09-06 15:50:25)
My ideal THN staff....
Senior writers: Bob Mackenzie, Brian Costello
Staff Writers: Ryan Kennedy, Ryan Dixon, Sam McCaig, Daniel Tolensky
Contributors: Risto Pakarainen, Pierre McGuire, Peter Loubardias, Bill Meltzer and Jim Matheson
Former Player Contributors: Kelly Hrudey, Ray Ferraro
Costello, McCaig, Kennedy and Dixon are the cream of the THN crop right now with Brophy gone, and each of the other writers I listed brings a unique skill-set and knowledge base to the equation in my opinion. Mackenzie is just an overall excellent hockey mind and reporter and has THN experience, obviously.
Tolensky wrote one excellent article for you recently and is a dedicated and knowledgeable statistician with few apparent biases.
Pakareinen and Meltzer are excellent international writers, while McGuire and Loubardias are the best of the best with junior hockey in spite of McGuire's ultra-Canadian bias.
Jim Matheson is a hall of fame recognized writer, plain and simple.
As for Hrudey and Ferraro, recently retired players provide a unique brand of insight and with their incredible ability to analyze plays, systems and players, I'm sure their talents would translate to some interesting articles.
This is basically an all-star cast though, and I'm sure it wouldn't be feasible, but just make sure than whoever you hire actually shares a passion for the game and does not slant their articles to conform to their biases.
thedeke (Posted 2008-09-06 15:49:17)
Even as a Canucks fan, I love Steve Dangle (youtube him). He is personable, funny, and above all, accurate. If you can link to him, or other video bloggers like him, I think it would be a great step in using technology to enhance your brand.
Alex in AZ (Posted 2008-09-06 15:39:50)
I "third" Mike Heika. If you want to add someone to your organization who actually cares to pay attention to hockey in the southwest U.S., something sorely lacking on this website, he's your guy.
Karine Hains (Posted 2008-09-06 15:34:08)
I regularly read Linda Mankefors' blog and it would be nice to add her international flavor to the Hockey News Team. It would be a change from the same old same old approach....
Kevin Smith (Posted 2008-09-06 15:00:49)
I agree with C. Mike, get Jamie McLennan. If he's still busy playing, sign him to a contract for when he retires.
Dink (Posted 2008-09-06 14:43:22)
Bill Meltzer. One of the best new guys on the block. The guy has good insight around the league with little to no bias.
Matthew Roberts (Posted 2008-09-06 14:41:14)
JodyVance!
C. Mike (Posted 2008-09-06 14:33:29)
Get Jamie McLennan before he starts writing TV sitcoms, or the script for Slap Shot 3. I'm hoping the Flames wouldn't mind him taking a little time from his new job there to write some stuff. The blogger idea is a good one.
Bob (Posted 2008-09-06 14:20:58)
Dan Tencer...He does great jobs in Edmonton
LG Wartenberg (Posted 2008-09-06 14:12:37)
If not Kevin Allen, then Bob Duff.
Lawrence (Posted 2008-09-06 14:05:23)
who the hell is ken becket?
Don (Posted 2008-09-06 13:12:55)
If you guys are looking for some new talent why don't you take a look at your own bloggers. Just like the coaching carousel in the NHL ranks wouldn't it be nice to put up a new face instead of guys a retread on a new tire (in this case site).
Even a international flavor is good when you have a lot of hockey in Europe and Russia (especially with the new super Russian League taking away international talent). So with that said why not look at some of your own writers such as:
http://www.thehockeynews.com/blogs/156-Linda-Mankefors.html
Habsroy33 (Posted 2008-09-06 13:00:13)
What about scouring the net and picking somebody from the blogging world? It would help THN to relate better to fans. Some of the best guys out there writing blogs are guys like James Mirtle, Greg Wyshynski of Puck Daddy, Ken Beckett of The Power Play, or Sean Leahy of Going Five Hole. These are all guys who are great writers and great fans of the game who aren't stuffy no personality journalists.
Ruthe Robertson (Posted 2008-09-06 12:58:35)
More featured articles from Risto Pakarinen, the best hockey writer anywhere.
THF (Posted 2008-09-06 12:36:51)
Do us all a huge favour and stay away from the Leafs loving writers.
Bob Walsh (Posted 2008-09-06 12:36:07)
Hire Paul Kukla. He's the best blogger out there. Though he may have a slight Detroit slant. His blog is always first rate, honest, and more than any other truthful. Paul would be a great addition.
Rick (Posted 2008-09-06 12:24:11)
seconding mike heika
Eklund (Posted 2008-09-06 12:10:11)
Bob McKenzie, Ken Campbell, Ryan Dixon, Adam Proteau, Ryan Kennedy, Sam McCaig, Daniel Tolensky, James Mirtle.
Greg (Posted 2008-09-06 12:08:19)
Here is what I want THN line-up to look like:
Senior Writers:
Bob McKenzie, Ken Campbell
Writers:
Ryan Dixon, Adam Proteau, Ryan Kennedy, Sam McCaig
Bloggers:
Daniel Tolensky, James Mirtle
Bob Roberts (Posted 2008-09-06 12:02:28)
Eric Duhatschek
d a n i e l f o (Posted 2008-09-06 11:55:49)
mike heika
Chris Farley (Posted 2008-09-06 11:48:42)
Going on the blogging idea, I think you guys should look at Bleacher Report and take a top writer on the NHL section, and maybe have him write something a couple times a month or so. Some of those writers like Alan Bass, Ken Armer, and Bryan Thiel are really good at what they do, and I'm sure would all love to write for THN.
sacko (Posted 2008-09-06 11:11:53)
Elevate Jay Greenberg, bring in Portzline from Columbus if you can, and bring back Bob McKenzie (get the wallet out). David J. Neal would be a great pickup as well. Bring in James Mirtle for blogging. Good luck, Broph. As for the rest of you, respectfully pack your bags.
Marcin Zawacki (Posted 2008-09-06 11:11:41)
!!DALE HUNTER!!
Or if you could pull Bucci away from ESPN
Josiah Hunter (Posted 2008-09-06 11:08:31)
Here's an interesting perspective: Scour the net for the most read hockey blogger who isn't professionally writing for any company, and hire him. Obviously, he's got experience writing, is already popular, and could probably use a job. And it could put more of fan perspective inside THN apart from Letters to the Editor. Just a suggestion...
And if that doesn't work, you could always pick me or Mark Moore :P jk for me, I'm too young...
t-murder (Posted 2008-09-06 11:07:56)
I think more player correspondence pieces would be a great way to fill the space. I wouldl ove to read about what pros and exects think about the game.
jag (Posted 2008-09-06 10:58:27)
"Speed trumps size" one of the best articles ive ever read goooo MArk Moore
Pens Fan (Posted 2008-09-06 10:19:49)
Pick Eric.D (can't spell his last name lol) he's one of the besy writers in Canada for sports.
Ty Spencer (Posted 2008-09-06 09:59:48)
Bring in Pierre Lebrun, he's someone who really seems to know what he is talking about. Please stay away from Al Strachan
voline (Posted 2008-09-06 09:46:12)
Duhatschek is good and I really like Mark Moore. I have a BA in economics from the University of Texas and attended graduate school in economics, so I'm no expert but his grasp of econ doesn't seem that bad. Now for those for whom certain economic "laws" are treated as religious dogma ... there's nothing I can say.
Mike (Posted 2008-09-06 09:32:19)
Oups, apparently Brian Duff already does some work for you..... my bad. Kind of new to THN.
Mike (Posted 2008-09-06 09:30:24)
Brain Duff is a hockey guy I've always loved on TV and radio, maybe he could write a decent column.
McCann (Posted 2008-09-06 09:13:11)
Sad to Broph leave.
Duhatschek wouldn't be a bad pick-up.
Colten Stringer (Posted 2008-09-06 08:14:08)
Two thumbs up for Eric Duhatschek!
Tim (Posted 2008-09-06 08:07:39)
Mike Vogel; although his plate might be kinda full writing for the Caps. He always has very good articles on the Caps website.
D.S. (Posted 2008-09-06 07:53:41)
Also, please God (and Jason Kay) do not add Mark Moore to the roster. He's a talented writer but he has a non-existant knowledge of economic practice and theory.
D.S. (Posted 2008-09-06 07:50:23)
Eric Duhatschek, Steve Dryden, Bob McKenzie...
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