Friday's FTB: Distraction

The news that the Leafs had acquired Michael Grabner and the start of the Leafs training camp were quickly overshadowed for many by what may be one of the most ill-advised press conferences in history.

The Chicago Blackhawks thought it would be appropriate to host a press conference where they announced, as many suspected, that accused rapist Patrick Kane would be attending training camp. Kane was also made available for hockey questions only following his prepared statement where he said he would be "absolved of having done nothing wrong" (which does not mean what he thinks it means, I'm guessing).

The optics of hosting a press conference to allow someone who has been accused of sexual assault to call his accuser a liar while he is still being investigated, to call this all a distraction, and to only take hockey questions because that's the most important thing-- they're bad, to say the least.

I'm disgusted, to be honest, and I'm not enthused about supporting the NHL right now. The Leafs camp is starting and a lot is happening there, so hopefully that can be a distraction (from the distraction) for those of you who need it.

You can read Second City Hockey's quick take on the presser here.

Also, the NHL is supporting the move. Read about it here.

Here are your links.

From the Front Page

Maple Leafs acquire Michael Grabner for a host of prospects

Training camp and preseason: What you need to know

NHL, Adidas announce seven-year jersey partnership

Who goes south for the winter?

Leafs Links

Mirtle: Ten things to watch for at Leafs training camp

MLHS: Michael Grabner acquired by the Maple Leafs in six player deal

MLHS: Mike Babcock addresses the media ahead of camp