Great Idea Ruined by Idiot Marketing

TSN.CA is reporting on the previously rumored outdoor NHL game between the Pens vs Sabres at Ralph Wilson stadium in Buffalo. The game would be carried Nationally on NBC in a made for TV event. All of this sounds great to me. Hockey, featuring the Pens, Outdoors, National TV...what could I possibly complain about?

Well lets see. When is the NHL thinking about airing this event which may or may not get the casual sports fan to check out hockey in a unique setting showcasing their young stars? Why January 1, 2008. JANUARY 1st. The day that for all eternity has been owned and ruled by College Football Bowl Games since time in memorium.

Why on earth would they put this on January 1st? How about the week between the Championship Games and the Super Bowl? When there is nothing else on. How about the week after the Super Bowl? How about any other day other than January 1st? Even Christmas Day would be a better choice.

If they put this on January 1st the odds that the ratings will be anything other than terrible are astronomical.

And I fully expect an official annoucement confirming Jan 1 as the official date coming from the NHL any day now.