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Emery heads to Russia

TIM WHARNSBY

From Thursday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 9:10 AM EST 18/07/08

Former Sens goalie has signed a one-year deal with Atlant Mytishchi of the new Continental Hockey League ...Read the full article

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  1. Jeff Gordon from Toronto, Canada writes:

    We won't miss ya
  2. Ryan M from Ottawa, Canada writes: Wow. He and Putin should get along just swimmingly.
  3. JEFF S from Canada writes: Well, contrary to comments above, I WILL miss Ray Emery. Im no fan of the Senators, but in this market especially, Emery is given a rough ride. And I understand, to a degree.
    To me though, this is exactly the type of guy that the NHL needs. Too many (mostly Canadian) NHL'ers are too "media-polished" and provide no interesting information during interviews. (see: Crosby, Sydney). Here we have a guy that, although he clearly has made some mistakes, speaks his mind and doesn't worry about what others think of him.
    The NHL, needs to promote some guys with "character" if they want to sell this sport to "fair-weather" fans.

    Have a good season Ray, we'll see ya in 2010.
  4. Garry S from Canada, Canada writes: Watch your road rage, Ray, or next you will be playing in Siberia!
  5. Matt Ellig from Waterloo, Canada writes: "Ryan M from Ottawa, Canada writes: Wow. He and Putin should get along just swimmingly."

    What's Putin's policy on attendance and punctuality?
  6. tom owen from Slovakia (Slovak Republic) writes: Tax free money you say....if he is a Canadian citizen he will pa tax on his world wide income.......
  7. Sherlock Hemlock from Canada writes: Good Riddance!!!!
  8. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: As the resident American goaltending expert on these pages, I will repeat for those who still don't understand: Ray Emery is finished in the NHL. He has the tag of "dressing room poison" on him and a year in Russia will not do much to polish an already tarnished rep. Goodbye Ray, you had it made and you blew it.
  9. Tom h from Edmonton, Canada writes: Banished to Siberia... ouch.
  10. JA M from Our Town, Canada writes: It will be interesting to see if these players going to Russia will actually get paid in full.
  11. Clay O. from Vancouver, Canada writes: tom owen from Slovakia (Slovak Republic) writes: Tax free money you say....if he is a Canadian citizen he will pa tax on his world wide income.......

    i believe "tax free" means that the russian clubs are paying the tax on these salaries. I think I read this somewhere... correct me if i'm wrong.
  12. Gogh Forit from Canada writes: Tax free? Only if he moves to Russia. If after the season ends he moves back to the U.S or Canada there will be taxes to pay on that salary. I suspect his paycheque will be deposited in an account in Europe and not Russia, likely Switzerland.
  13. Alistair McLaughlin from Canada writes: He's headed for Russia... assuming he makes his flight. While his antics were somewhat distracting, I don't think he's a bad person. A bit immature, but not a total jerk (like, say, Sean Avery). I wish him the best.
  14. uncle rukus from Mississauga, Canada writes: Jeff S I agree the NHL and thier players with thier 110% percent cliche interviews it gets boring fast. The lack of diversity in the NHL is a problem and the next set of superstars Steve Stamkos and John Tavares don't seem to have any personality. It still makes me laugh how everyone in Ottawa made Emery the scrapgoat for all thier problems last year.
  15. Neil No more last name from Mississauga, Canada writes: JA M from Our Town - I was wondering the same things.

    Man that's gotta be the lowest of the low - From Stanley Cup keeper, to crappy season, to NHL throwaway, to Russian keeper. What a bad year. The last person you need as poison in the change room is the goaler, and if that's the word on Emery, he's screwed as far as the NHL goes (less he turns it around).

    Make your bed, reap what you sew and the rest of those.

    I don't know if a year in Russia will help his status in the NHL.

    Lalime is looking pretty good right now to the Sens, no? Gerber for Lalime, one for one
  16. Bob McDonald from Canada writes: I'm sorry to see him leave. When he was on, he was really good. Great goalies however are consistent. Maybe his Russian adventure will season and discipline him to become more consistent. If that happens and he returns, I hope its to Toronto or Montreal so he plays against Ottawa - a lot.
  17. R A from Canada writes: From the ultimate warrior (in Sens fans eyes) last year to a goat this year.

    Who's turn is it this year Sens fans to blame for the team falling apart? Now that Redden is gone I predict it to be last years early season hero, Spezza.
  18. Devil Bud from T.O., Canada writes: Mixed reviews here. I would hope he uses this opportunity to prove critics wrong and become a valuable team player. If not, I can't see Russia being a great place for him. Too many girls, mo' drugs. Hmmmm...Ray may find it too tempting. Here's to hoping he stays away from his old ways.
  19. Phillip Ontakos from Toronto, Canada writes: Although a Leaf fan, I am sad to see Emery go.

    I was hoping he was going to be picked up by another team in the NHL.

    I liked his style - he was cocky, arrogant and (at times) downright unbeatable in the nets.

    Let's hope he has a good year and finds himself back in the NHL.
  20. Crusty Curmudgeon from Ottawa, Canada writes: I doubt that 24 teams would be NOT interested in him simply because of rumour / innuendo.

    Teams have contacts on the team through various friendships that have developed in junior hockey.

    I do know that he was quiet in the locker room (in other words not a trouble maker). But he also did not have that killer instinct that a lot of teams look for in players when they are shelling out $3 mill / season.

    Heck, I could be quiet in the locker room as well.
  21. R. M. from Regina, Canada writes: Let''s see if I can understand. NHL goalie's are often labeled as "flakey", "hard to get along with", "loners", those kinds of adjectives. Emery fits that pattern and then is vilified, spat up and in some cases it appears shat upon. I cannot believe how judgmental so many posters are when it comes to a person's behaviour or perceived character. Do they not realize there could be a myriad of factors causing that with some serious underlying issues that need to be and could be addressed. We all carry personality and behaviour baggage. I say lighten up and take a higher path and stick to hockey skills and leave the behaviour analysis to psychologists.
  22. Larfing Outloud from Virgin Islands (British) writes:
    There's a win-win.

    Ottawa rids itself of Emery and Emery discovers the nightlife in Siberia is WAYYYYY better than in Ottawa.
  23. Overtaxed and underlaid from Canada writes: Canadians are only taxed on world-wide income if they spend 6 months or more in Canada, I believe, so Ray-ray should be a-ok.

    It's the States that taxes their expatriate citizens regardless of time in or out of country.
  24. Allan Martel from Canada writes: The scuttlebut has it that three NHL teams expressed interest in Emery - that is amazing to me.

    As to Ray's future, he has to grow up a long way to be a viable contender for an NHL goalie position and he'll pprobably have to return (if he ever does) as a backup to prove himself again.

    Bitter pills to swallow, but with enough cheap vodka, anything is possible (or so I'm told).
  25. Ryan M from Ottawa, Canada writes: Neil - doubt that would ever happen. Too many painful memories for Sens fans with respect to Lalime's playoff performances. He choked at the worst times.

    That said, our goaltending situation is pretty sad right about now, so who knows?
  26. garlick toast from Canada writes: I wish the Russian league games were televised in Canada.I'd watch them.
  27. Proud Canadian from Canada, Canada writes: Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: """"As the resident American goaltending expert on these pages, I will repeat for those who still don't understand: Ray Emery is finished in the NHL. He has the tag of "dressing room poison" on him and a year in Russia will not do much to polish an already tarnished rep. Goodbye Ray, you had it made and you blew it."""""" Agree with you Pope Paul. Without reservation. How in "H" can some guys have it so made, and blow it not once but many times (acting up I mean). Something wrong with the grey matter not. Hey Pope Paul, winter sinompsis, the Eastern end of Lake Ontario is going to harvest somewhere 25 feet of snow per month from November to May. I think its time you leave Rochester before we can not find you. Good place to live is over here in the SW of Ontario whereas we send all the white stuff East, not the opposite. Have a great summer Cheers.
  28. Devil Bud from T.O., Canada writes: For the record, with respect to taxes, Ray will most likely be paying taxes in Canada. Canada taxes based on residency. However, this does not mean, if you live somewhere more than somewhere else. It means..."where is home?" Unless Ray absolutely withdraws his "Canadianess", he will most likely have to pay taxes here in Canada. I am not saying this is "what will happen", just what "should" happen. Then again, there is no rule that says the team can't give him a bonus at the end to pay all tax liabilities. We will see. Well, probably not, considering the insignificance of the subject.
  29. wayne powers from saskatoon, writes: Taxes shmaxes what this guy has to worry about is keeping himself inline. If he is caught with drugs or blows a gasket and smacks someone. He will really findout how much he threw away. The Russians won't let him off the hook and might even enjoy throwing him behind bars and telling the world what Canadian hockey players are really like.
    We over here tolerate the indiscretions of pro atheletes too much. They seem to think they are special and do things that would get the average joe doing time (like the Boston ball player slapping around a 64 year old man)
    So mr Emery better mind his p&q's
  30. g h from Canada writes: Hey Proud Canadian, great post. Loved your "sinompsis" of the weather next winter. Ceep upp thuh gould werk.
  31. JEFF S from Canada writes: Wayne Powers.....Nice Slander. When has Emery EVER been linked to drugs or violence?
  32. days ofcoleco from Canada writes: Hockey is pretty funny. 1972 Bobby Clark breaks Russian star Valery Kharlamov's ankle on purpose. Bobby Clark is a hero! The tournament is a defining moment in Canada's history (according to some dimwitted thugs i guess). Even a scumbag like Bertuci always gets a job. What did Emery do? Miss a couple of practices?

    Anyhow, I expect Eugenie Melnyk to start having weekly Brydonesque news conferences this year complaining that the team can't afford to stay in Snoresville without a government bailout.
  33. Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: The whole "buyout" business is utter madness. Signing a multi-million-dollar contract in order to provide a service should come with particular expectations. Players who miserably fail to meet those expectations (ie. Emery, Bertuzzi, much of the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup) should not have to be paid out if they do not perform. It's equivalent to getting fired for incompetence, and the company still agreeing to pay you 2/3 of your salary each year for several years.
  34. Green Konstantin from Canada writes: JEFF S from Canada writes: Wayne Powers.....Nice Slander. When has Emery EVER been linked to drugs or violence?

    __________
    No clue about the dope but he has been involved in 2 road rage incidents in Ottawa. The last one, an elderly man, is suing him.
  35. D W from Seattle, Canada writes: Having lived through a few Ottawa winters could the weather in Russia really be a lot worse? If Ray can master a few good lines in Russian he might have a great time over there.
  36. gilles monenemie from Canada writes: Probably it cheap gas for his Hummer that closed the deal.
  37. Carl Baldin from Calgary, Canada writes: If he carries on with his ways, perhaps he will be found in a ditch in Siberia!?!?
  38. Howard Young from Canada writes: Green Konstantin from Canada writes: JEFF S from Canada writes: Wayne Powers.....Nice Slander. When has Emery EVER been linked to drugs or violence?

    __________
    No clue about the dope but he has been involved in 2 road rage incidents in Ottawa. The last one, an elderly man, is suing him.

    ----------------

    Technically, it is liable, slander is spoken.

    As for links to usage ask a few night club owners or bouncers at the popular nightspots and they will have some insights, all off the record as well. He wasn't the only one either.
  39. Proud Canadian from Canada, Canada writes: Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes: """"The whole "buyout" business is utter madness. Signing a multi-million-dollar contract in order to provide a service should come with particular expectations. Players who miserably fail to meet those expectations (ie. Emery, Bertuzzi, much of the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup) should not have to be paid out if they do not perform. It's equivalent to getting fired for incompetence, and the company still agreeing to pay you 2/3 of your salary each year for several years. """"" Hugo. My question to you is. How many more of these "buyouts" have occured with these rediculous signings in the past 2 weeks. EG. Campbell in Chicaga and all the others. In my estimation, just more of the same. My feeling is, once the bank account is full (and that applies for all of us) once satisfaction is attained on that stage, the willingness to contribute above and beyond expectations is gone. Whether it be in pro sports or whatever profession you are in? Am I not in the ball park on that statement???
  40. Howard Young from Canada writes: It was one road rage incident, the other was a car accident, He signed autographs for the occupants of the vehicle he rear-ended. They were all smiles despite the car damage.
  41. Spiny Norman from Georgetown, ON, Canada writes: If this new Russian venture of signing name players works out, it could lead to an MLB-type situation where some (albeit not many) players get their act together over in Japan and are then rehired by the American pro clubs. Of course there are all manner of reasons why a player would choose to play overseas, but in this context it could be helpful for Emery if he wants another shot at the NHL. He's clearly a gifted player and though he might give "good interview", it's apparently his big mouth and childish antics behind the scenes that soured the Sens, his teammates, and ultimately the league on him. Whether this is a factor of some deeper psychological issues we can but speculate; surely that would be something for his agent to work with him about? In the interim, I'm happy to see him go. One more national anthem with his face in the net and his butt in the air didn't do anyone much good. Sure, it might be funny once, but not every single night.
  42. Fred Pantalone from Ottawa, Canada writes: Does anyone know what "Atlant Mytishchi" means in English? No pathetic troll replies please.
  43. Tricky Woo from Montreal, Canada writes: I have a hard time believing a guy with so much talent and still only 25 years old will never be in the NHL again. I agree that he was -and still is- scapegoated. Missing a few practices doesn't explain the Sens epic meltdown. Even after firing Paddock and declaring Gerber to be the undisputed #1, they still dropped 4 or 5 spots, only making the playoffs because Carolina lost, and we all remember the first round (and Gerber did not play that well either, c'mon now). Alistair: I also agree that Sean Avery is a real bad apple. Anyone who swings his stick in a goalie's face, nevermind one of the greatest goalies of all time, has no respect for the game, period. I won't mind at all when someone pulls a Clarke or Bertuzzi or McSorley on that punk, and it's just a matter of time.
  44. Howard Young from Canada writes: It's interesting that no ex-Senators have come out with anything positive to say about Ray. It would be interesting to hear from guys like Eaves and Corvo, Paddock, Hasek, etc.
  45. Dave The Rave from Ottawa, Canada writes: According to reports, Mytishchi is the second-largest city in Russia and is a suburb of Moscow. The Atlant organization just built a new 10000-seat arena there. We'll see if the Razor gets his edge back.
  46. Fester Boyle from Bert's, Barbados writes: Howard, he was at Kelly's wedding, so it must mean something.
  47. Howard Young from Canada writes: Maybe the invitations were sent out well in advance, or it was a "non-invitation" invitation (Seinfeld reference). :)
  48. G R from Winnipeg, Canada writes: I agree that there are no personalities left in the NHL (or sports for that matter).

    He seemed likable....unlike some real losers out there (tucker, bertusi, lowe, burke, etc etc) So he was late for practice and other petty things....he will be back.

    Actually if the leafs had been smart they would have snapped him up....better then anything they have now, certianly better than Joseph)
  49. Claude Carriere from Canada writes: Say what you will, he was no angel, so what. He is just a scapegoat.

    He is not the one who didn't deliver the offence needed to win games!

    There are a number of high priced Under achievers on this team.

    It was obvious it was a one line offence team who lost their self confidence after they were injured.

    The problems run deeper than Emery.
  50. Sandy T. from Canada writes:

    Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes:

    "Ray Emery is finished in the NHL."

    Paul, no-one is ever finished in the NHL because of bad behaviour(choose from any one of dozens of historical examples too numerous to mention here). If Emery puts up good numbers while he's in the RSL, there'll be renewed interest from lots of NHL teams. I'd bet on that.

    Hugo Hall from Calgary, Canada writes:

    "The whole "buyout" business is utter madness. Signing a multi-million-dollar contract in order to provide a service should come with particular expectations. Players who miserably fail to meet those expectations (ie. Emery, Bertuzzi, much of the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup) should not have to be paid out if they do not perform. It's equivalent to getting fired for incompetence, and the company still agreeing to pay you 2/3 of your salary each year for several years."

    No difference between pro sports and real life there Hugo. If you had a job from which you were fired for any reason not specifically stipulated in your contract, and the contract had not lapsed, you would get whatever settlement you had bargained for too.

    If you have a contract, you're laughing all the way to the bank. Ask any unemployed CEO about those lovely golden parachutes they bargained for.

    And it ain't just sports stars and CEOs, a lot of us ordinary guys work on individual contracts, and those contracts, once signed, are binding to both parties. eg... you can bet every one of these Globe writers you're reading and railing at every day have contracts too. If one of them was to get the pink slip while their contract was still in force, the G&M would be on the hook for either what salary remained, or what had been negotiated in the original agreement.

    Contractual obligation isn't just a sports thing. It's everywhere.
  51. Howard Young from Canada writes: Claude Carriere from Canada writes:

    He is not the one who didn't deliver the offence needed to win games!

    -------

    Correct, but he didn't deliver the defence, which is within his control.
  52. Howard Young from Canada writes: Sandy T. from Canada writes:

    If you have a contract, you're laughing all the way to the bank. Ask any unemployed CEO about those lovely golden parachutes they bargained for.

    And it ain't just sports stars and CEOs, a lot of us ordinary guys work on individual contracts, and those contracts, once signed, are binding to both parties. eg... you can bet every one of these Globe writers you're reading and railing at every day have contracts too. If one of them was to get the pink slip while their contract was still in force, the G&M would be on the hook for either what salary remained, or what had been negotiated in the original agreement.

    Contractual obligation isn't just a sports thing. It's everywhere.

    ----------------

    Last time I checked not that many people have CEO as their job title. NHL hockey player as job title is rare as well. However, in the order of things a CEO in the hockey world would be equivalent to the GM or possibly the Captain of the team.

    Unless you are freelance or possibly unionized, a "signed" contract is rare in the real working world. Their only protection is government legislated (i.e. labour code).
  53. Matt Ellig from Waterloo, Canada writes: We have a couple of similar scenarios the last couple days:

    Bertuzzi heads to Calgary to try and get back to form.
    Emery heads to Russia to try and get back to form.

    Both players have tarnished reputations in the eyes of the fans, the players, the press, and the organization (Emery's from incidents much less severe than Bertuzzi's, mind you - but that's not the point here), and are both just looking for a fresh start. I say best of luck to both of them; I'm sure we'll see Emery in the NHL again.
  54. sonny l from Toronto, Canada writes: Didn't he also have some sort of "tribute to Mike Tyson" painted on his mask? Dumb, not to mention bad Karma.

    As for people complaining about contract buyouts, a contract is a contract. Don't sign it if you don't like the terms.
  55. Richard Hawrelak from Sarnia, Canada writes: Good luck Emm. Pack your own food.
  56. Badges? We don't need no stinking badges from Canada writes: Can you get any of those Russian league games on TV?
  57. Thierry Ntumba from Toronto, Canada writes: The salary practice in Europe (in almost all sports) is to pay the player a salary that is "net", that is, the tax will be at the charge of the team. Emery by signing a year contract in Russia will, I believe, still be considered as a Canadian resident for tax purposes unless he cuts all activities at home (closed all his bank accounts, sell house, if any, etc.) to show that he intends to be a non-resident. I doubt it would happen that way. He will get his $2 mill plus bonuses and the team, which appears to be a rich team, would be arranging to pay Emery’s taxes. I also believe that some of the comments on Emery are unfair. In the broader scheme of thing, Emery did have a good run with the Sens. He went with the Sens as their primary goalie up to the Stanley Cup finals. That was great. So, instead of the Sens organization showing him some respect, they basically told him the year after the finals that he was a patch as anybody could be better than him. The lack of respect is big deal for all players in any sport and we all know how big the ego of these guys is. If an organization considers you as a patch, you will snap and Emery did. I am sorry to bring that up , is any of this happens because Emery is a minority and that the Sens, by having him on board, wanted him to say “thank you massa!” all the time despite the lack of consideration and respect he got from the team ? I am wondering out and loud but I won’t surprised if it turns out that way. I personally believe that the guy has some solid skills and given a chance, he could prove that he is a great teammate.
  58. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Sandy T- I think there have been many sports "contracts" that have been re- negotiated during the effective period of the contract.
  59. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: I think all of the Emery supporters have forgotten that the primary problem with Ray is Ray. He is responsible in the end. He has been around long enough to understand what being a good team player is all about. If he doesn't know, my 9 year old son would be happy to share his thoughts on being a team player with Ray.
  60. Howard Young from Canada writes: Thierry, your comments about Emery being disrespected would hold water if Emery played well this past year.

    After his injury he didn't get the immediate start because the team was on fire (Gerber included, the birth of Darth Gerber, black mask superstition, etc.), why would you disturb that?

    When they worked Emery back into the rotation, did he step up and play like a #1? Did he work hard in practice to find his game? An Alan Iverson equivalent Emery was not. (In case you don't know him, Iverson is an NBA superstar who hated to practice but delivered when it was game time)

    If any goalie had a right to feel disrespected it was Gerber. The team gave Emery many chances to find his game and continued to play him even when it was clear he didn't "have it". This all despite the fact that Gerber was in nets when the team racked up most of its wins during the 1st half of the season.
  61. wayne powers from saskatoon, writes: I did not say he was a drug user I just said if he is caught with drugs.
    Over here we turn a blind eye to anyhing like that, but somethings that players do will not be overlooked. Look a few years ago Messier was caught way way over the speed limit in Alberta, and with a promise not to do it again and some glad handing he was left to drive home. I don't thing a Canadian in Russia would get the same treatment. If there is any form of slander it would be the justice system in Russia, not Emery. I would just suggest don't be foolish over there, no one there cares who you play for.
  62. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: This is going to be a real challenge for Ray. He's going to have grow a really thick skin, given the colour of it. The Dutch manager for the St. Petersburg football (soccer) team said that he would never hire a black player because the team's fans would not accept it. Ray is going to have to get used to the monkey chants - if he can do that, he could be awesome. If not, he'll be looking for another job in December.
  63. Howard Young from Canada writes: Mariposa, unfortunately, I think you're right about the slurs he will face. Nobody derserves that kind of treatment.
  64. Richard Keho from Canada writes: There's a reason why the sports stars don't pay taxes there. The protection money they'll pay is actually a tax. Just to think he used to drive a Hummer here. He goes to drive one there he'll need an armed escort. It'll be Lada time for Say Hey Ray. Looks good on him. It'll be interesting to see how the Sens react this year after the free agency period is drawing to a close. They don't look quite as good going forward but without Redan and the Cancer who knows.
  65. George BrownIII from Christmas Island writes: I thought he made an excellent backup goalie for the flames and tone down his attitude with bertuzzi as a teammate.
  66. smilin smiler from tbay, Canada writes: How did he blow it. He just signed for 2 million. That's for one year.
    And he'll be living in Russia which is a way more fun place than Ottawa or anywhere else in Ontario. I'm sure Dallas or Detroit or somewhere where they choose players on the basis of talent will sign him down the road, maybe after he's pocketed millions more in Russia. Good for you Ray.
  67. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Proud Canadian- You are the man! I enjoyed your weather prediction. In fact, I tossed out my Farmer's Almanac after I read your forecast. As it has been 30C and humid up the ying-yang here this week, it has been hard to think about winter. But my son did get an e-mail about his first hockey practice August 11th. Bust out the snow tires! The kid will be all decked out in new RBK gear thanks to the old man. Can't have my boy flopping around in year-old pads. No way.
    Hit the hot tub PC. Enjoy.
  68. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Paul - shelling out for goalie equipment does create a huge hole in the family budget. It is a real sacrifice and the chances of making money from it is negligable.

    Playing Goal - It can become an obsession, creating flakes, nutbars and lunatics.

    Or well rounded astute individuals like ourselves - destined to become management or commentators (well, we are already the latter).

    I spent a weekend in Greece - would have preferred to be in Rochester.
  69. Allan Cup Pugh from SSM,ON, Canada writes: The KHL season starts and finishes earlier than the NHL, right? I think I read Jagr saying this.
    Could Ray be back for the playoffs if he stays cool and gets his game back ?
  70. The Habs from Toronto, Canada writes: I guess there are no slurs in NA then.

    Bertuzzi ends a guys career and he's signed. Emery contributes to a bad Sens season and he's cast aside.

    Tiger may end up earning a billion dollars by 2010 but one bad move and he's toast...and he knows it.

    Colour my friends. This is why he's being screwed over. I'm sure Heatley is a great guy too.
  71. E. Biggs from Canada writes: Habs the only colour that matters is the colour green.

    They could not care less if he is white, black or polka dot if he can play and make them money.

    When he cannot play and make them money and starts reading his own press releases and believiing them with a lousy attitude he is toast.
  72. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: My response to Habs from T.O. - Colour has nothing to do with it. Performance does. Big contract, Big expectations with negative results will get you either transferred (a one year exile in Bingo was impossible given the contract) or fired. Ray was fired on results, not skin tone.

    As I posted earlier, the colour of your skin issue will be a big issue for Razor in Russia. This will be a story to follow this winter - so much will happen with Razor in Russia.
  73. The Habs from Toronto, Canada writes: Have a logical explanation for Bertuzzi and Heatley then.

    Russian girls look great playing tennis. They'll love him at least.

    How many games did he play this season...and where did the Sens end up ? So its still his fault. If he was such an issue, why not send him home then.

    Race is playing a bigger issue than you think. I suppose all the other Sens had GREAT seasons then ?
  74. Sandy T. from Canada writes:

    Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes:

    "Sandy T- I think there have been many sports "contracts" that have been re- negotiated during the effective period of the contract."

    Yes indeed. But buying out and firing isn't about re-negotiation, which is entered into with the agreement of both parties. As Mats Sundin did last year with the Leafs in order to give JFJr additional money to squander on non-helpful personnel who later became boat anchors.

    Howard Young from Canada writes:

    "Unless you are freelance or possibly unionized, a "signed" contract is rare in the real working world."

    I grant you it's not an everyday thing Howard, but experience tells me it's not as 'rare' as you think - and not just for freelancers. As for union workers, by definition they don't sign individual contracts.

    And Richard Keho - wow, nice post. Can you say xenophobia?
  75. Kia Raju from T.O, Canada writes: $2M tax free for a gnat on the team. Had one good run at the playoffs with a excellent team. Not only lacks talent but has a mental capacity of a 16 yr old teenager. Sleeps in for practice, road rages and loves attention.

    Good Riddance, now he can take off his shirts in Moscow and show off his tattoos all over him and side of his neck. Just a rich spoiled brat and a covert thug wannabe.
  76. Craig Osborne from United States writes: "thug wannabe". Wow! How much more racist can you get?
    The Habs from Toronto is right...colour i.e race is always a factor. Thuguzzi or the Bert the career ender is a thug as is Domi, glad he's gone. For that matter Tucker too...cheap shot artist. Emery is not a thug or criminal last time I checked. Race is always an issue in a rasist country. Good Luck to Emery. Buds could have used him. Maybe next year when Cujo finally hangs it up.
  77. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Thank you Habs and Craig for your contribution to this discussion. The value of your contributions has been recognized.
  78. Gerald Genovese from Nanaimo, Canada writes: $2M bonuses - Not bad........Toilet seat included?
  79. Don Most from Canada writes: Perhaps a difference between Bertuzzi and Emery can be explained in terms of being "me-first" or team-first". Bertuzzi's assault has been described as basically defending the team's honour, or protecting one's teammates. Emery's actions, in contrast, have been described as being a detriment to the team, with him being a "me-first" guy who became a clubhouse cancer. Emery's battle with Paddock largely cost Paddock his job. To say that Emery contributed to a bad Senators year is a bit too simplistic.

    Of course, consider Ted Nolan's Buffalo experience and the 10 years it took to get another NHL job, and the racism issue becomes that much more ugly. Hmmm, Emery is a minority and labeled as a coach-killer, Nolan is also a minority and was labeled a GM-killer. Coincidence?

    The Habs from Toronto uses Tiger Woods to illustrate the minority perspective, but Ted Nolan's Buffalo experience is in my opinion an actual example of his point.

    But I have to say, Craig, that, as you say, "race is an issue in a racist country", then race is an issue in every country in the world and every country in the world is racist.
  80. Jeff Gordon from Toronto, Canada writes:

    Well...Leafs still suck though
  81. Kia Raju from T.O, Canada writes: Give him six months in Russia, he will be a back-up goalie and out of hockey in two years.

    UFA for goalies is a very short list. Here is a fellow who could have easily inked a deal in the NHL for $20M over 4yrs(similar to Christabal Huet) by just showing up on time, working hard and being a team player.

    But it has alway been about Ray Emery! His ego and no one else matters.
  82. duc letho from Moscow, Canada writes: May be we should put the NHL and its mafiosi people to the museum; they are dinosaur.

    A new league, a new start. I am glad that Emery joined the move.
  83. Howard Young from Canada writes: Don Most, you hit it right on the head. His tantrums, showing up late for practice, leaving practice early, scraping with McG & Neil and complaining about not being automatically being given the #1 job post injury when the team is playing well. These are signs of someone who puts himself ahead of his team.
  84. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Mariposa Belle- next summer keep in mind there is a suburb of Rochester called Greece. You can kill two birds with one stone. There are also some excellent Greek restaurants and a Greek Festival here the first weekend in June. Big art festival this weekend. Come on down!. Do you golf? Golf is huge in Rochester. I hate golf. Bring the Mariposa Belle across the pond.Visit the Finger Lakes wineries.

    Goalies Rock! We're on the ice 60 minutes while the other guys are sitting down and spitting at the camera or watching their replays. My boy looks very cool in his Maple Leaf blue and white RBK gear. Black mask with silver flames and stars. tres chic! Watch out for this kid someday. Total team player (unlike Ray-Ray). Last spring he won a tournament MVP award and he gave his medal to one of his team-mates who took five stitches on the chin. I almost cried.

    Cheers-
  85. uncle rukus from Mississauga, Canada writes: Howard Young thier are tons of stories about guys being a pantload on thier teams it just that the Senators did not have any veteran leadership to straighten it out. This demonizing of Emery had partly to do with his skin tone I just don't buy this from a league with a not a lot of diversity. Ray Emery was not the cause for the Senators choking in the second half of the NHL season. To think that all guys who like Emery would just quit on the team and all the guys who like Gerber would play hard is a crock.
  86. uncle rukus from Mississauga, Canada writes: Plus as a Sabre fan I loved it when Andrew Peters squared off against Ray Emery that was a treat!
  87. Phillip Ontakos from Canada writes: Jeff Gordon from Toronto, Canada writes:

    Well...Leafs still suck though

    ___________________________________________________________

    So do you and your posts...
  88. Howard Young from Canada writes: At the end of the day none of this would have happened had Emery been able to play well in nets this past season. I'll even lower the threshold, he only had to play better than Gerber, which he couldn't.

    As far as having people straighten him out. What has happened to the notion of personal responsibility? He should be expected to keep his own house in order.

    NHL hockey players are supposed to be professional atheletes. Emery was neither professional or atheletic. He would still be a Senator if he had accomplished being one or the other.
  89. Proud Canadian from Canada, Canada writes: Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: """ My boy looks very cool in his Maple Leaf blue and white RBK gear. Black mask with silver flames and stars. tres chic! """"" Pope Paul, did u ask that kid what team uniform he wishes to wear or is it just an arbitrary decision by "DAD".. lol. Hey man, never had a son, but have a grandson, 3 yrd old. (and one more 5 months old) Loves thwie Papa Claude, we play hockey, golf, baseball, soccer, we do it all. Little young yet to see his future but whatever it is, Papa Claude will be there cheering him on. And more than likely helping to get the proper equipment.... Weather alert:::: Winter storm for Rochester and area Sept 27th. 25 feet of snow plus 60 MPH winds.
  90. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Proud Canadian- The decision was arbitrary AND capricious. I am a fair but benevolent ruler. Actually the goaltender is a Blue Jackets fan (Thank you Pascal LeClaire!) and his oldest brother is a Bruins fan. Little do they know I am leaving all of my money to my middle boy.
  91. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Paul - when I said a weekend in Greece, it was Greece NY. It was during a scout exchange many, many years ago.

    Good luck to the lads for the upcoming season.
  92. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: My bad. Invitation still stands. Bring Loucks, Proud Canadian, Hap Stokes, R Miller From Halifax and Niel No More Last Name with you.
  93. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: LOL.... I'd love to Paul I.... but due to youthful indiscretions in the early 80's ... your country isn't very fond of me.

    Considering Geography... Hap is on the Left Coast, Miller is on the Right Coast.... Mariposa is suffering in Ottawa, Neil no more is in Mississauga... I'm in Pickering... I believe Claude (PC) is going to be in Kingston sometime this summer (from Chatham area) ... maybe a golf round in Kingston might be do able.

    Cheers
  94. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Scott Loucks- The one and only time I golfed we stopped counting when I hit 200 (Strokes, not yards!) No "stroke" jokes please. I am able to lend moral support, consume my own weight in Molson or Labatt's, and be a pest in general. Sign me up.
  95. Too Much from Toronto, Canada writes: Is the Kingston get-together open to females? Not much good at golf and generally get immensely bored by about the 12th hole but could instead contribute by engagin in witty repartee whilst sipping a cold beverage.

    As for some of the other comments on this thread: Ted Nolan WAS offered a job shortly after Buffalo - one of the southern U.S. teams but turned it down because his kids didn't want to move. So at least part of why he didn't work for quite a while was a result of his own decision.

    And couldn't agree more with the comment on Emery (or anyone else for that matter) needing to assume PERSONAL responsibility.
  96. Proud Canadian from Canada, Canada writes: Scott, Pope Paul, (and others if they want to join in) maybe at a later date in CANADA we can partake in some golf and refreshments. After I retire............... The more I think of the last statement, the more I hate the day coming. Did that jig, didnt like it.............
  97. Proud Canadian from Canada, Canada writes: As stated before, one has to be mature enough to realize where one is. And playing in the NHL is one big PRIVILEDGE. Its like driving, its not a RIGHT, its a PRIVILEDGE. You have talent, you have knowhow, one thing you must do is get your head "screwed" on properly in order to appreciate and partake in this event that only 25 guys get on each team in the league. Or a total of 750 or so guys. Guys like Sundin, Gretzky, Gilmour and the other big stars know what it takes to make it happen. Razor hasnt figured it out yet, and its costing him. There are many like him in the league, and many more will follow. Too bad, but thats what it takes in any workplace, get respect from your peers and go every day to give 100% effort and a little bit more.
  98. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Too Much From Toronto- I will take PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY to make sure you are entertained after the 12th hole. It's the very least I could do.:)

    Cheers-
  99. MapleLeaf Bacon from Killaloe, Canada writes: Emery...an confirmed cokehead with the mindset of an immature teeanger with very limited talent, hmmm....I wonder why no NHL teams called him? Good luck in Russia Ray, I give you a few months at best, be careful though, get caught with your dope in Russia and be prepared to suffer the consequnces. The drug laws and punishment are much more stringent in Russia than Canada.

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