Emrick Reaches #3,000

I have been fairly critical of NBC in the past, and for good reason. Between their inept commentating, mismanagement of the Olympics, and trashing of Ryan Miller's reputation, the network has done little to earn my respect. Announcer Mike "Doc" Emrick, has not escaped my criticism, but his latest accomplishment deserves praise.

On Monday, as the Pittsburgh Penguins set to take on the Detroit Red Wings in a rematch from the two previous years' Stanley Cup Finals, Emrick was preparing to announce his 3,000th career pro hockey game. The game itself, played in Emrick's native Michigan, lived up to the occasion. It featured the NHL's brightest stars and best teams competing in a tightly contested match. Thanks to intervention from the Hockey Gods, the game was broadcasted by Versus, not NBC. As punishment for his frequent on-air stories that are unrelated to the game, Emrick was forced to have none other than Ed Olcyzk alongside for the milestone. And of course, Doc dragged out the old line about Edzo getting his first NHL win as a coach against Detroit.

Emrick should be lauded for his longevity and passion for the game. Three thousand games is the equivalent of over 36 NHL regular seasons, quite a long career for one who battled cancer. It cannot be denied that he keeps the NHL's best interests in mind, whether or not he is capable of fulfilling them. The guru would like to commend Mike Emrick on a such a momentous accomplishment. Congratulations Doc, from all here at Fantasy Guru 37's blog.