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We can't escape the dark reminders that sport and real life intersect too often. But the start of the NHL season hopefully will alleviate some of the despair.

Here's the post-deadline look at the playoff picture and whether teams are trending up, trending down or merely treading water.

When it comes to doping, drinking and gambling allegations, the NHL says all the right things. But when it comes to on-ice incidents that can really hurt the game's reputation, the league repeatedly misses the mark.

After this week's shakeup in Philly, we wonder where the hammer fall next in TGIF.

After the season from hell, Wayne Gretzky's return speaks to his stubborn refusal to back away from a challenge, writes Scott Burnside.