Hockey Hits: Will the end of general sports columnists be a good thing for the NHL?

Some news and notes from around the blogs:

• Puck Daddy:  End of general sports columnists a good thing for hockey.  Great piece.  Totally agree with his points.
• Canes Country:  Hurricanes work with SAS and IdeaS to analyze promotions and ticket pricing.  More teams need to be concerned with lowering ticket prices to help out fans.
• Battle of California:  Pity for Patrick Marleau. Perhaps without the responsibility of captain, he will feel less pressure, and it will benefit his play on ice.
• On the Forecheck:  The KHL’s rivalry with the NHL is all about pride and power.  The Ukraine is not weak.  (as Kramer said).  Mother Russia continues to do what it can to bolster its image.
• T.O. Sports:  Ritter Rants about a variety of topics.  I agree with him that Heatley needs to adjust his attitude.
• Flamesnation:  All 30 NHL teams ranked by cap space.  Interesting to note that it looks like a list of the top teams are, shockingly, closest to the cap limit.
• Five Hole Fanatics:  Some Calgary Flames related news.  I expect good things this year from the Flames as long as they stay healthy.