From the Branches: 34 of 35 NHL players would accept gay teammate

Good morning from Orlando! The sun is rising later and later, and the temperature has dropped from near 40C to a positively chilly 29. In short, I feel summer fading, which means -- HOCKEY!!!!111 Yay.

News

NHL players survey: 34 of 35 say they'd accept an openly gay teammate | USA today
"I’m not surprised by that," said Calgary Flames president Brian Burke. "I’m disappointed by the one player. I don’t think our players have an issue with gay players. I think the first player to come out is going to find an unbelievably welcome reception. I think my generation has a bigger problem than their generation when it comes views on the gay community."

Michael Sam Says He's Returning To The University Of Missouri For Graduate School | Huffington Post

The Dark Knights Return -- new Islanders third jerseys | Lighthousehockey

WATCH: From player stills to graphics, get a behind-the-scenes look at Rogers | Sportsnet

Patrick Kane’s Status Is Shrouded in Silence | New York Times
New York Times?!

Former Flyers forward Simon Gagne officially retires from NHL | CBS Sports

NHL mock expansion draft | SI
I'm glad there is no Seattle team or I'd hear no end of "Tyler Johnson Come Home!"

NHL 16 Review | Gamespot
"Thankfully, NHL 16 is a much better game. EA has brought back and revamped several modes, including the EA Sports Hockey League. The revival of these modes and the changes made have, for the most part, improved the experience enough to warrant a return to the ice; however, with the addition of the visual On-Ice Trainer, it’s easier than ever for newcomers to jump in and play, too."