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Spreading the holiday cheer

Tuesday, 12.23.2008 / 10:37 AM / Columns
By Paul Kukla  - NHL.com Correspondent
It's that time of the year again, so here are the presents people in the hockey world should see under the tree.

Gary Bettman -- A beautiful day weather wise in Chicago on January 1st. Temperature in the mid-20's with a slight breeze, no more than 5-10 mph.  Partly cloudy would be good too, at least until the sun is out of the eyes of the goalie defending the third base side goal in the first period.

Bill Daly -- A little more media recognition.

Colin Campbell -- A month without any controversial calls to make.

John Shannon --  a 120-inch plasma HDTV.

Chicago coach Joel Quenneville -- Continued success, except when facing the Red Wings.

Wayne Gretzky -- An appearance in the playoffs.

Canucks GM Mike Gillis
-- One more player, preferably a "goal sniper." Oh yes, a healthy Roberto Luongo would be good too.

99% of the NHL coaches -- The yet to be released DVD, "How to Relax Behind the Bench!"

Wings GM Ken Holland -- A way to sign Zetterberg, Hossa & Franzen.

Thrashers GM Don Waddell -- Finding a way to keep Ilya Kovalchuk. Here is a suggestion, add a playmaking center.

Lou Lamoriello, Devils GM -- A best-selling book, entitled "The Lou Way."

The Ducks' Bobby Ryan -- A regular shift.

Brendan Shanahan -- A team you want to play for. The NHL needs you, your game is still good.

To all the New York Islanders players -- A six game winning streak.

Zach Parise of the Devils -- A Lady Byng Trophy.

Maxim Afinogenov of the Sabres -- A trip back to his past, like two and three years ago.

The Chicago Blackhawks' Duncan Keith -- Finishing the season with the best +/- for all defensemen.

Goaltender Steve Mason of the Blue Jackets -- A Calder Trophy.

Patrick Marleau of the San Jose Sharks -- A Comeback Player of the year award.

Puck Daddy -- A well-deserved vacation.

Mike Heika of the Dallas Stars Blog & Michael Russo of Russo's Rants --Continue to keep your readers informed.

Alanah McGinley of Canucks & Beyond -- A conference playoff matchup against the Red Wings.

To everyone else -- A peaceful Holiday Season, one with much joy and happiness!

See you next week.


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