Five Thoughts for Friday

While there may not be a lot going on in Ottawa Senators land right now, we hockey fans are the masters of finding something to talk about! Here's what has been on my mind this week.

Melnyk

Eugene Melnyk started exercising his political muscles this week by leading a movement to boycott major sponsors of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He spoke to CBC, and other media outlets, voicing his displeasure for Russia's takeover of Crimea and the country's treatment of Ukraine.

I could go into detail about the comparisons he made between Putin and Hitler, but let's all just be glad he's not rambling about the Sens for once. If anything, this might keep him occupied this summer, allowing Bryan Murray to do his job.

Who would replace Jason Spezza?

Are you tired of Spezza trade talk yet? It seems to no longer be a matter of whether or not he will go, but where he will go. While we have discussed this in detail, I also wonder what will happen with the team if (let's face it, when) he gets traded. Who will get the "C" after Spezza leaves?

Considering the fact that it came down to him and Chris Phillips when Spezza originally became captain, I think we'll see Chris Phillips with a "C" on his sweater next season. But some people think Erik Karlsson should lead this team. Is he too young? Or is now the perfect time?

Personally, I think making Karlsson the captain would simply be a case of assuming that the best player on the team is also the best captain. This is not always the case. I don't know much about Karlsson's leadership abilities on the ice or in the dressing room, but he doesn't seem to be the most vocal, at least not yet.

Phillips will likely get the "C" now, with Karlsson taking the lead when Phillips retires.

Sens Summer Fan Fest

This week, Kevin Lee announced that the first annual Sens Summer Fan Fest will take place in August. It's a chance for Sens fans to get together over some beverages, talk hockey and even participate in some contests. Proceeds from the event will go to the Sens Foundation, so fans can enjoy a good time for a great cause.

In a time when it's so easy to be cynical as a Sens fan, this gives us all something to look forward to and come together for. I, for one, cannot wait!

Capital Trotz

Ok, now for something non-Sens related. When the Nashville Predators parted ways with Barry Trotz, lots of NHL teams thought about firing their coaches just to get Trotz on board.

I thought that Trotz would end up in Vancouver. It seemed like a great fit for both sides, especially considering the year that Vancouver had under John Tortorella.

When the Washington Capitals hired Trotz, I was a little shocked. But I think this could be a great place for him. He's never really had a superstar, in their prime, play under him. In fact, Nashville often seems to be the place where former superstars finish their careers.

Now, he has Alex Ovechkin. Let's see if Barry Trotz can find the key to Ovi's success. After this many coaching changes, I can't help but think that if this doesn't work, Ovi will find himself on the trading block.

Playoff Themes

Bear with me. Every year, during the playoffs, there seems to be a random, unexplained theme outside of hockey (or something that the media latches onto and focuses all attention on). This year, it's water bottles.

It started with Corey Perry squirting water into Jeff Carter's glove in the second round (Oh Perry, you little rascal). Then, both Shawn Thornton and Henrik Lundqvist showed their disdain for the other team with their water bottles. And now, Corey Crawford is under a police investigation for spraying water at a fan in Los Angeles. Putting the shear foolishness of this case aside, you get my point.

Now we all eagerly wait to see who falls victim to the dreaded water bottle next!