Gustavsstein

I know they call Jonas Gustavsson "The Monster", but I think we've created one. And if not yet, we're well on our way. Can't remember when someone so unproven has demanded so much proof from potential employers?


Will he bite?

Like, the sucking-up thrust upon this guy is mind-boggling. And if he's not overwhelmed by it, he's surely spoiled from it. I mean, Brian Burke, arguably the biggest named and mouthed GM in hockey, flies across an ocean to just get his attention. Twice! That's a lot miles and shitty meals all in hopes of convincing a B-League netminder to play back-up to someone who's probably still better. And you'd think when someone puts in that kind of effort, they'd reap some benefits. Well, not when you're dealing with "The Monster". BB's trip did give him a reprieve from the annual madness associated with July 1st, but not much else. Both times he returned from Scandinavia with nothing but a monster "maybe". I'm sure BB would say it was all worth it. Wonder though if truly feels that way? Geez, it must be frustrating baring your soul only to go unfullfilled. Hey, but if you're Big Bonus Jonas, it's got to be nice to feel so wanted on the promise of...promise.

Waiting for a goalie like you.

I count myself among the many who are waiting with bated breath for this guy to make up his mind. It's like he's a superstar or something. But is he? We have no clue. And that's what so intriguing. That's why the team we follow is digging into what's left of it's dignity to lure him here. It's a very real possibiliy that "The Monster" could really be a monster between NHL pipes. And if that turns out to be the case, it will have been worth of all of this trans-Atlantic running around. But the monster could get mashed and shit the bed, which in hockey's mecca means stinking really, really bad. Maybe that's why he's taking so long to make up his mind? Sure, Toronto would be a great place to win. And so would Dallas. Losing in either city isn't the same however. Taking the money and running for Big-D is almost the better choice for this coveted kid. If he wins, he wins big. If he loses, it's no big deal. There's just so much more riding on Gustavsson succeeding or failing in Blue-and-White. Like careers, jobs, and pride...for a player who's getting treatment fit for a King, and a once dominant Kingdom desperate to re-establish it's former glory. From what I've read, the kid says he's not worried about the pressure of playing in Toronto. Most players say that though, and while some mean it and demonstrate it, others abruptly learn they can't live with the hype.

Can Jonas Gustavsson?

It's probably what he's asking himself. It's a question he'll need to solve and feel comfortable with before he delivers the answer we've waited so long to hear. Finally then this monster-sized suspense will end, just as our monster-sized expectations begin. Hey, he's "The Monster". It may not be what he wanted, but it's what we've created.