As the Sharks embark on what I think might be their toughest test of the season, going into Chicago and taking on a Blackhawks team that seems to have found an identity again under Joel Quenneville, there have been a few things that have transpired in the NHL in the last few days that have really tickled the sadistic Sharks fan in me.

Tampa Bay fired Barry Melrose after only sixteen games. They are very quickly becoming the laughing stock of the NHL. Giving up on Matt Carle, dumping the coach – I feel another trade coming involving a big name. Lawton is franticly trying to put his stamp on this mess.

Francois Beauchemin is out for six months. Oops. I never would wish a serious injury on someone and having gone through ankle surgery this summer, I know recovery and rehab is a bitch – but hey – I admit to laughing out loud when I read the news. We’ll start calling this mess Burke’s Blasphemy. Enjoy Ken Huskins kids.

The Dallas Stars continue to take dump after dump and the LA Kings continue to surprise – which makes me laugh on both counts. You know Dave Tippett’s job is on the line, which would be a huge mistake to fire him – but I can feeeeeel it coming. What else are they gonna do? Blame Brett Hull? Nah…..and somewhere Dean Lombardi is sitting in a dark corner, staring at a Tavares headshot with tears in his eyes. Oh…what could have been if we were as bad as I wanted…

Plus, you can’t forget the total drubbing we dished out to the Calgary Flames on Thursday night. It was embarrassing and wonderful, everything you could ask for. Kipper got pulled and the Flames looked totally defeated. Looks like the bully tactics aren’t gonna work this year, Mr. Keenan. Guess what? You could be joining Melrose in the broadcast booth before the year is over.

Looking forward to a huge game on Sunday night in Chicago. It’s gonna be a thriller.