The Numbers
All the debate surrounding who the Oilers should take #1 at the draft finally got me thinking about it from a different angle. Who can they pick? I mean, both of their jersey numbers are off limits. Perhaps this should be the criteria used for deciding on the #1 pick this year:
Hall – Jersey #4
#4 is unofficially retired, only having been worn by Kevin Lowe. Does hall get to wear it as a symbol of turning the organizational page? Or would that be far to much pressure to put on the youngster? #14, I believe has already been put on Eberle’s back (he wore it in training camp, and I even saw somebody wearing an Eberle 14 jersey once, not that, that makes it official). #44 is cursed, and would ensure Hall demands a trade out of E-Town within a couple seasons. #24??? Most recently vacated by one Steady Steve? Historically not the most “impact player” worthy number, but who knows. How about 8? Who is the most notable #8 in Oilers history? Joe Murphy perhaps? What about Kelly B and Jaret Stoll’s old number 16? 4 is the square root of 16. I like that one.
Seguin – #9
Well, I thought #4 was tough, but #9 is impossible. First of all it’s retired and therefore not an option. 99…? anyway. 19? boring, 29? boring. 39…. I still can only think of Doug Weight being the star #39. I say 9 x 2 for 18 and trade/buy-out/sell/con someone into taking off waivers, the current #18.
Just my 2 cents on the first evening without any hockey on t.v. in over a month. zzzzzzz…