The SBP Archives - Your less than frequent dose of SBP!

Wouldn't it be nice to talk about how Daniel Alfredsson was named player of the week and set a franchise record by collecting 7 points in one game against Tampa Bay? That many media circles peg him as a Hart trophy candidate? Or how he probably added a little fuel to the Battle of Ontario fire by acknowledging during the all-star break he'd love to have Mats Sundin join the Senators and that it's even been discussed in the locker room (which also tells you just how much the Sens players think Toronto's chances are of making the playoffs)?

Nope. Instead, Ray Emery is the centre of attention in Ottawa for all the wrong reasons. And after his fight against Brian McGrattan during practice many said that could be the final straw, now it's pretty much all but certain Emery will find a new NHL team by the trade deadline or perhaps even a demotion to Binghamton for failing, again, to show up for practice on time after returning from Las Vegas yesterday.

It was announced that GM Bryan Murray is going to fine Emery for this latest mishap, for which he could probably be forgiven for if it was his first offence. Unfortunately, it's one of many, his reputation is in the toilet and he's acting like he wants to play for someone else. Maybe he didn't like fighting for the #1 spot after taking Ottawa to the Stanley Cup finals at the start of the year, but this is pro sports and at the end of the day it's always asked, "What have you done for me lately?" Martin Gerber, despite that I'm not convinced he can carry the Sens to a Cup run, at least works hard and has a good reputation amongst his teammates for someone who gives it his all. Emery is a team cancer now and the players likely wouldn't play hard for him for all his on and off ice antics.

Remember when Emery was the toast of the town? When it was declared Ottawa no longer had goaltending worries and even a song and video was made for him? That was just 7 months ago. Now, everyone wants him shipped out. Ray, I won't forget how hard you played during the 2007 playoffs and despite what many say, I thought you were solid and did a commendable job in the post-season and helped the team get further than they every have in their short history. But now, you've shot yourself in the foot, your new contract has gone to your head, and everyone thinks you were a one trick pony.

No one to blame but yourself.