The phrase “Loose lips sink ships“ originally was used during World War II to warn soldiers of the consequences of talking too much and to think about what they say. Tell the wrong person too much about yourself or your unit, and the entire war effort could be ruined. While the latest Sean Avery quote won’t have nearly as drastic of an effect on the world, I think the phrase still applies here.
After a morning skate in Calgary, Dallas’ Avery said the following to a throng of reporters:
“I just want to comment on how it’s become like a common thing in the NHL for guys to fall in love with my sloppy seconds. I don’t know what that’s about. Enjoy the game tonight.”
Avery was referring to Flames defenseman Dion Phaneuf, who is currently dating Elisha Cuthbert, Avery’s ex-girlfriend. Cuthbert also dated Mike Komisarek of the Montreal Canadiens. Avery’s remark also can be attributed to Rachel Hunter, an actress and former girlfriend of Sean who is now dating Los Angeles Kings center Jarret Stoll.
Players talk trash and that’s never going to stop. But, there is a time and a place for it. Commenting on an opponent’s girlfriend is probably a pretty effective way to get into his head, but doing it through the press isn’t going to piss him off. It’s just going to get you into a lot of trouble.
While it may be seen that Avery will be dealing with this all on his own, what it will actually do is cause a further skid for an already struggling Dallas team. Co-GM Brett Hull brought in Avery to add some grit to the Stars, but the erratic and annoying nature that came with is outweighing any benefit that may have been seen.
Commissioner Gary Bettman quickly suspended Sean Avery indefinitely, pending a hearing with the league. The Stars have said they won’t make a move until the results of that hearing are known, but from the way Co-GM Les Jackson and owner Thomas O. Hicks are talking, there will be hell to pay for this huge embarrassment to the team.
“Had the league not have suspended him, the Dallas Stars would have. This organization will not tolerate such behavior, especially from a member of our hockey team. We hold our team to a higher standard and will continue to do so.” – Thomas O. Hicks, Owner
“It’s pretty simple. It’s totally unacceptable for the Dallas Stars. That’s not how we want to be portrayed.” – Les Jackson, Co-GM
Those in the front office are not the only ones hanging their heads. Teammates of Avery are not pleased either.
“We’re not gonna ignore what happened today, we’re not going to pretend like these things don’t happen or face up to it.” – Marty Turco, Goaltender
“”It’s none of my business what he says and I’d rather not talk about Sean. He’s got his own thing going on.” – Brad Richards, Center
Statements like that show how this is going to really affect team chemistry for the rest of the season. But what can the Stars do to get rid of the problem and prevent this in the future? It’s hard to think that they would buy out the rest of Avery’s 4 year, $15.5 million contract. Such a huge hit would have some pretty harsh effects on the cap which could prevent some other big name players coming to town (or could cause some to leave). Could a trade be in order? Not likely. Such a long contract for such a classless player would be almost impossible to move. Dallas seems stuck with their black sheep, and he’s going to do quite a bit bring this team down this season.
Update: Avery’s hearing with the league is set for Thursday, 12/4 @ 12pm ET.