Dr. Integrity or: How I Learned To Stop Hating and Love Brian Burke

(Photo via hockeydraft.ca)

I was watching George Stroumboulopoulous Tonight on CBC a few nights ago and I experienced a revelation. Brian Burke, President and General Manager of your Toronto Maple Leafs, had a sit down with the talk show host and after his interview, I realized that I don't hate him. I might actually almost love that man. Here's the reason why I had a change of heart (but not allegiance).

UPDATE WITH STATEMENT - Hockey And Politics: Tim Thomas Refuses To Join The Boston Bruins For White House Celebration

(Photo via mobyrebuttal.blogspot.com)

Tim Thomas, the Conn Smythe trophy winner for the Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins, declined the White House's invitation to celebrate their accomplishment. Thomas is a known Tea Party supporter and we can only assume that this was the reason why he didn't show up. I don't agree with what Whyshynski wrote, but I will reserve my full comment until Thomas releases his statement on Facebook NHL.com.

My initial feeling is that this is a classless move by the Bruins goal tender. A visit to the White House is an honour and not an opportunity for grandstanding. Politics and pucks don't belong together.

UPDATE WITH TIM THOMAS' STATEMENT REGARDING BOYCOTTING THE BOSTON BRUINS' WHITE HOUSE VISIT