Maybe it’s just me, but the week immediately after the Superb Owl always tend to drag a little. There’s almost a sense of dread, the looming off-season is now officially here, and the build-up for the game this week isn’t there. If you’re Jest or The Pauls fan, it’s a week of building excitement that you know will simply overcook into rage-inducing Buttfumbling, but it’s still something to look forward to.
Well, we’ve got a while before that happens again. May as well get comfortable while we all stick it out together. I won’t lie though: this week has been scooting by at a normal clip in my view. I didn’t realize it’s Thursday “already.”

Random thoughts:

— Our vacuum broke last week. My place really needs swept. I currently do not have the discretionary funds to obtain a new one, and the prospects of doing so the immediate future aren’t good. Can I borrow one from the Mrs, Rikki? I’ll return it in a less-used condition, even more than the vibrator and Big Turk bar.

— 4 Nations hawkey tournament kicked off last night, with the Canadians defeating the Swedes, 4-3 in overtime. The Canucks blew two different two-goals leads, 2-0 and 3-1, but still got the OT victory. Sidney Crosby had three assists for Team Maple Leaves. Dude really hasn’t lost a step whatsoever. Too bad his professional organization lost their way about five years ago, and can’t decide to just tank for a rebuild or continue to surround Crosby with mediocre-at-best “talent” and wonder why the team is about to miss the playoff again.
The Crapitals have given Ovie a lifeline, but the Fenway Sports Group doesn’t understand (or care) what “progress” and “talent development” are.

Anyway, the USA and Finland square off later. I’ll provide some tangential coverage during the night thread, as I’m sure others here will. Again, can’t wait to see how Finland’s performance impacts the Maple Leafs’ Cup chances in May. That’s what really matter, right?

— Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day. Don’t forget to forget again, and make a rushed, rash purchase for your significant other today or tomorrow. I’ve already done so at least twice, and will likely do it again.

Please feel free to post yinz own mental droppings and thoughts on this THURSDAY below.