News & Links: 5/25/10

Your digest for all the biggest stories surrounding the Blues and the NHL.

St. Louis Blues News

– The Director of Pro Scouting, Jarmo Kekalainen will be leaving the team come June 30th to return to Finland. Kekalainen was the man behind the draft for the Blues and could have a tough time finding a replacement. [Frozen Notes]

– With the news that Kekalainen is moving on, the Post-Dispatch takes a look at some of his best draft picks to date. If you love David Backes, T.J. Oshie and David Perron, you can thank Kekalainen. [StlToday]

– Jake Allen has been named the CHL Goalie of the Year. The 19-year-old Allen was drafted by the Blues in the second round (34th overall) in the 2008 Entry Draft. He posted a 2.20 GAA with a record of 29-14. [St. Louis Blues]

NHL News

– Steve Yzerman (yes, the same Yzerman that Blues fans loathe) is reported to be the new GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Say what you will about Stevie Y, but this is great news for the Lightning organization. [NHL]

– In case you’ve been sleeping throughout the playoffs, this year’s edition of the Stanley Cup Finals will be played between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Philadelphia Flyers. As a fan of the Blues, I’m compelled to root against Chicago, but I feel I must place my support behind Coach Q. [Yahoo!]

– The former owner of the Edmonton Oilers, Peter Pocklington has agreed to plead guilty to perjury in a bankruptcy fraud case. [ESPN]

Random News Stories

– CNN proposes an interesting question – is God a sports fan? Athletes thank God for homers and touchdowns, but when did God get involved in sports? [CNN]

– In case you weren’t terrified of sharks already, the report that certain sharks can become invisible should keep you out of the water for a while. [MSNBC]

– Starting June 21st, Fanball is unveiling a new daily three hour radio show on Sirius and XM. Expect fantasy sports talk, interviews and special guests.

– This day in history: Star Wars opens in 1977 on May 25th. Two great movies followed, and then the series deciding to keep going with three very forgettable films. [History]

Video of the Day

Are you a soccer fan? If not, this new spot by NIKE may convert you. Enjoy this full three minute commercial which shows the rise and fall of performances at the World Cup. Simply incredible.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=idLG6jh23yE