It's so very different from the glam NBA draft and NFL draft.  It's kind of provincial yet refreshing and it's fun to see the rabid fans-the people are just more real and grounded.  Definitely the least amount of spoiled, entitled athletes and families.  I'm watching it on a beautiful Friday night in Philly-but that very fact is a whole other issue...
They just did a touching tribute to Boogard and one of his brothers announced Minnesota's pick.  It did give me misty eyes for a few minutes.  I read an article about what happened to him-it's reminder how tough this sport is and how you can easily mix fatal combinations of pain pills and alcohol.
Watching the draft makes me nostalgic and a bit sad.  I grew up somewhat near to Edmonton so of course I idolized Gretzky and the gang.  Hockey rules in Canada-everyone knows everything that happens.  We used to go watch minor league teams on weekends.  I feel out of touch now since I don't know who everyone is or what exactly is happening with team decisions.  I am Canadian, though, so I am a fan for life and love the atmosphere at games and the great people who attend the games.  I know hockey doesn't have a huge fan base like other sports but if you haven't been to a live game then you are missing out on a great experience.
The best article about the NHL draft I have ever read is by Bill Simmons a few years ago.  He did a running diary of the draft and it is absolutely hilarious...highly recommended.
Thats it-just felt like sharing some hockey musings.  I know there's a few true hockey fans out there

My team got a decent first pick. We'll see how they do today in round 2 - 6.  Now that we finally have a real owner the days of following and finishing oh so close are over.