Better Know a Contender?

For years the world has been broken up into First World and Third world states. The first world organizes lop-sided trade deals with their lesser neighbors in order to keep the economic scales titled in their favor, threatening with that same economic and/or military force should any country "get out of line."  And we pampered travelers hop on down to these paradises, expecting better treatment then we would get in our own neighborhoods, well, because these people should be happy that I am stimulating their economies by being here in the first place!  These simple, uneducated, savages.  And the paternalistic cycle of psychological warfare continues unabated.

But it's not just the big dogs fault, right?  I mean, surely the homeland has to be willing to accept some of the blame, correct? Like, for example if the country's leaders negotiates a long, large trade contract (say 15 years for $67.5) for some mundane, widely available good (Rick Dipietro)that will, in actuality, not improve your country's prosperity or good fortune in anyway.  And at the expense of a previously useful contract that would have improved your economic outlook (Roberto Luongo). Well, in that case, we must blame the little guy.

But it is just always a shame at how often the positive elements of the third world are overlooked.  Like the up-and-coming democratic institutions that will hopefully endure for the foreseeable future (Tavares).  The fledgling entreprenurial endeavors that only need patience and a little nation-wide support (Okposo) in order to succeed and prosper.  The rich and proud culture that actually gets up off of the couch once in a while to celebrate something beyond an annual celebration of shopping and gift-giving (Bailey).

Sure it's easy to be unimpressed with the pedestrian GDP (20-19-8), but compared to the previous year, we are approaching some serious growth.  And while the economy suffers from some serious deficiencies such as a 16% power play success rate, the 2nd-worst penalty kill worldwide, and 85 road goals allowed, there are some bright spots that suggest this land could be making a strong push for First World recognition.  Indicators such as 65 goals scored on the road, a Goals Against Average under 3, and the ability to remain competitive, forcing 17 Overtime games demonstrates a nation-state on the road to future success and a well-earned respect in the world marketplace.

Plus, how about them pounding those colonizing Red Wings last night, 6-0?

Trends to Watch:

Kyle Okposo: An island wonder that could only come from the exotic lands of the Third World, Okposo is only in his second full season as a pro at the tender age of 21.  That being said, he already leads the team in points and assists with 31 and 21, respectively.

Matt Moulson: In what is his first full NHL season, Moulson golden is already making a name for himself by leading the Isle with 17 goals.  His scoring is too inconsistent to be the team scoring leader, but with experience will hopefully come some additional production for the aged rookie.

John Tavares: The #1 overall draft pick in 2009 has not been a bust for the Islanders so far.  At age 19, Tavares is already displaying a wisdom beyond his years.  While too inconsistent to be considered a star at this point, it is really only a matter of time.  Already boasting one of the best shots in the NHL and demanding the attention that a star would normally receive, Tavares will be doing damage in the NHL well into his thirties.  Sucks for everyone else not in Isle blue.