Since winning Game 1 of the Stanley Cup finals in 1993, the Kings and Blake have lost 11 straight playoff games, a streak that is still alive. The idea We don't know much about new Canadiens owner George Gillett Jr. , but we could quickly become big fans of the man if he is serious about improving the hockey ambience inside Molson Centre. G.M. Lou Lamoriello initiated last season by bringing in a live organ player for the playoffs. Thus we were pleased to hear that Gillett said that many fans have been turned off by the canned music that blares at the arena. Everybody copies everybody.
Original ideas are the rarity.
That is a concern as Gillett has dispatched a crew on a fact-finding mission. And Gillett should also note that at no time should there be music playing when a penalty has not yet been announced over the sound system. He might be surprised to learn how often that occurs. Finally, Gillett should instruct his game-presentation people not to be slaves to their scripts. When a home team has a big flurry of strong scoring chances or heavy hits and the crowd reacts with a huge ovation at the next whistle, it is absolutely boggling and counterproductive to have music cut off and drown out the spontaneous cheering of the fans.