Instigating

Nick Boynton was supsended for last night’s Coyotes game against the Sharks due to the instigator penalty he picked up Monday night, when he went after Steve Bernier (he wasn’t the first ‘Yote to do so that night).

Boynton is not thrilled about the late-game instigator rule:

“I think it’s a little stupid. If I had gotten to him (earlier), I wouldn’t be suspended, so it seems kind of a little stupid to me, especially when a guy like that deserves what he gets. But what are you gonna do?”

The very next night, Chris Pronger received an instigator when he threw punches at Michal Handzus at the end of overtime.  The league determined the fight wasn’t premediated and did not suspend Pronger.

GWG

That’s Game-Winning Georges.  Georges Laraque provided the winning goal for the Penguins last night in their victory over the Islanders.  BGL’s last goal was 40 games ago when he was playing for the Coyotes.

All-Star Dreams

The NHL has modified the All-Star voting process.  Open write-ins are no longer allowed, and it’s doubtful the “Vote for Rory” campaign will be duplicated by anyone this season due to the new system, and simply due to too many copycats.

That hasn’t stopped the suggestions from flowing over at my Votes on You post, and there’s still an open vote over at the forums.  While most likely not possible, a fun discussion nonetheless.

Avery, ivory, living in perfect harmony

The Sean Avery headlines continue.  After picking up a fine for his pre-game festivities with Darcy Tucker, there’s been a lot of commentary.  Here’s a sample:

Time to reel in Avery
Talkin’ trash is easy; backing it up is not
Avery: I didn’t cross the line
Crossing the verbal line
Cherry takes on Avery
Loose Change: Freedom of expressions

Videos added

Colton Orr vs Riley Cote Nov 15, 2007
Mark Bell vs Milan Lucic Nov 15, 2007
Craig Adams vs Doug Janik Nov 14, 2007
Justin Williams vs Brad Richards Nov 14, 2007
Matt Bradley vs Tanner Glass Nov 15, 2007

Some reads

Playing for Pacen
Hull as co-GM is just what the NHL needs
Fighting is fun!
Top 10: Domi lines
How can Gregory justify inducting himself?