With apologies to Ricky Bobby, it's time to add a little bake to that shake that is the NHL All Star Game.
Give it a little meaning.
No, not for Gary Bettman to get up on his soapbox, conveniently surrounded by the best players in the world, trumpeting the almighty praises of a league he has helped drive straight into the digger.
Not for the natural goal scorers who play the game with the intensity of a Wednesday night beer league, without worry of being laid out for admiring a pass.
Put something on the line. Give them something to play for. Something more than bragging rights.
Off with the kid gloves, damnit.
It's time to dangle a carrot and let that competitive edge come through.
It's a no-brainer. Home ice advantage for the winning conference in the Stanley Cup final.
Perked your ears up, didn't I?
It works for baseball, where the winning league gets the extra home
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format puts nothing on the line