Big summer ahead for Leafs: McDavid, Reimer, and Young D

       As the NHL regular

season winds down, the Toronto Maple Leafs have a big summer ahead. After a season that began with the expected hype and playoff expectations, it soon came crashing down, solidified by a horrendous January. But there are bright spots, and this summer is where Leafs management can turn the tables.

       Since the trade deadline, where the Leafs sent the likes of Cody Franson, Mike Santorelli, David Clarkson and Daniel Winnik away for prospects, draft picks, and cap space, it was a good start. Most significant of returns was the 2015 1st round pick from Nashville for Franson. The 2015 is going to be a deep one, with many cornerstone players up for grabs. Headlining them is of course Connor McDavid. With the new arrangements in the lottery draft, though slim, the Leafs have a chance of winning the McDavid sweepstakes.

       On to the present players on the Leafs roster/organization. Character has been seen as an issue with the Leafs sudden descent, but the core players can be built around. Though hard to see as the season winds down, there are many bright spots in the locker room. Prior to the trade deadline, Joffrey Lupul told reporters, "I want to stay here." Even Phil Kessel, who has struggled down the stretch stated, "we're giving full effort." Players still want to win in Toronto.

       James Reimer, is the longest serving Leaf being drafted back in 2006, has been a bright spot in the Leafs roster. It's not his season numbers that have highlight his season, but the character he showed in the dressing room. Being the "backup" to Jonathan Bernier, he showed real leadership when he called out his team's lack of effort in front of him. He's battled day in and day out, and Leafs management has wanted that change in locker room culture. Reimer is a character player that the Leafs can build around.

       Contrary to popular beliefs, I don't think the Leafs need to bring back Jonathan Bernier. He has had two season to prove that he is an elite #1 goalie with the Leafs, but hasn't shown the numbers. It isn't entirely his fault playing behind the Leafs defensive system. But the Leafs can afford to let Bernier go, after getting Matt Frattin back last summer, and the 2nd round pick going to LA being used in this year's draft. The Leafs also have either Antoine Bibeau or Christopher Gibson to possibly backup Reimer. If the Leafs can sign Bernier to a affordable contract, by all means, do it. But with the expectation that Bernier is expecting a raise this summer, it seems unlikely.

       On defence, speculations seem to lead to Phaneuf heading out of Toronto this summer. Yes, it will be a loss, but under his captaincy, it doesn't seem like he's the right guy now.  Jake Gardiner and Morgan Reilly are locked on defence for sure. I also like the addition of Eric Brewer. Though he's at the end of his career and has only had a small amount of games with the Leafs, he's been decent, offensively and defensively. Yes, people will look for the bad play here or there, but he's been good more than bad since his arrival.

       This summer is big for the Leafs if they hope to turn things around. With the additional cap space freed up from the Clarkson deal, the possibility of Phaneuf being traded, and Bernier as a RFA, big signings are possible. Nazem Kadri leads the priority list, also being a RFA, and if its anything like last time, it might be drawn out for a while. Richard Panik, Trevor Smith, and Brandon Kozun are also set to become RFAs. Young defensemen set to become UFA/RFA are Petter Granberg, T.J Brennan, Tim Erixon, and Andrew MacWilliams. Young players need to be signed, and possible free agents to add to the team will be key to the Leafs success down the road. 

It's Time to Speak Out, Let's Talk

"The only thing we can do, is share. If you don't share with one person, then there is no help." - Michael Landsberg

       Mental illness. It can't be seen, it can't be heard, can't be scanned for in an X-ray, yet it affects Canadians and people all over the world. Just because it can't be proven does not mean it doesn't exist. Depression exists, and exists in a large number of people. 2 in 3 people suffer in silence, fearing that they will be judged on the mental illness.
       There has become a stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and it has caused those affected to keep it to themselves. But that is the last thing people with mental illnesses should do. Because we can't physically prove someone has a mental illness, people on the outside may believe that the person is weak, not able to support themselves. But that is not the case.
       At a conference at the University of Toronto back in October, I had a chance to sit in, listen and meet TSN Off the Record host and mental health awareness advocate, Michael Landsberg as he spoke about the importance of speaking out about mental illnesses, "Keeping it inside will destroy you."  Having struggled from mental illnesses throughout his life, his experience with the battle against mental health has helped others stand up and find help.
       Mental health is the same as cancer, and the people affected needs the support from the people around. "The illness isn't in us because we are weak, it hasn't crept into us because we are weak, but because we are sick, sick like cancer is a sickness" explains Michael Landsberg, "We don't need pity, but need understanding.
       The Bell Let's Talk campaign raises the awareness of mental health issues, encouraging those who are affected to speak up, and those who aren't affected to reach out to those who are. On January 28th, not only will people be able to raise awareness, but they will also donate to the cause.
        This isn't just about famous people coming together to and sharing their experiences and showing support for the mental health cause, but something that can change lives. For someone who is affected in anyway by mental health, speaking and reaching out to others is the first step.
        Mental illness is not caused because they are "weak." Look around you today, and try to see who has mental illness. You won't be able to see it. Talk to people and then maybe, just maybe, they will tell you their story. Give a helping hand to those who you think need company and share your own stories with others.
       The first step for everyone, is to talk. So, let's talk.                      #BellLetsTalk
     

KPOP: SM Entertainment's Male group, EXO Falling Apart?

       When they debuted in January of 2012, EXO looked like the next big music group for Kpop. Showing off their vocals, rap technique, and dance, the group quickly rose in popularity, both in China (EXO-M) and Korea (EXO-K).

       The popularity quickly resulted in multiple award wins, including the 2013 MAMA Award for Album of the Year, un-seating fellow label-group Super Junior (who had won in 2011 & 2012). They were the next generation for SM Entertainment.

       But it is beginning to fall apart. It began in May, where EXO-M leader, Kris Wu filed a lawsuit towards SM Entertainment(SME) to terminate his contract. He criticized SME to not treating their artists fairly, reporting that the company had not allowed him to visit his family in Vancouver, Canada. It was not the first time SME received a lawsuit from an artist, Han Geng of Super Junior being the first. Kris has currently continued his career in China, acting and rumoured to be releasing an album in the near future.
       Super Junior was able to continue with the lose of one member, so it appeared EXO would be fine too. But as we are finding out now, a second member of EXO-M is filing a lawsuit against SME as well.
       On October 9, 2014 (KOR time), Luhan filed his lawsuit to nullify his contract with the company. There have been much speculation about this, but there were no hard evidence. Many had believed Luhan was on sick leave, recovering from intense fatigue. But that does not seem to be the case now, with reports that the relationship between the two sides have gone bad. Luhan had set a deadline to resolve this conflict, but it seems it has past, judging by the issuing of the lawsuit.
     

EXO, once started out as a 12 member group, is now, possibly down to 10 (6 in EXO-K, 4 in EXO-M). This leads to the question, "Can EXO still continue their success with the absence of two members?" Super Junior lost one member due to lawsuit and have continued to produce popular music. EXO members have been quiet these few weeks, possibly unsure themselves as to what will happen to them. They were shocked when Kris left, and this time with Luhan leaving, it could be a big blow. Can they come back and dominate the Kpop industry in the future?
       Aside from EXO, SM Entertainment have been through a tough year, losing artist after artist. Last week, popular member, Jessica was reportedly kicked out of Girl's Generation, causing SM's stocks to drop drastically. After Luhan's news was announced to the public, the stocks plummeted. It seems SME will continue to fall in stocks until they are able to resolve the drama within their company. It will need time before SM can come out and release what is happening within their organization.
     
     

Is SM Entertainment Losing its Hold on it's Idols?

       News has recently emerged that Jessica Jung, a member of the Kpop Idol group Girls Generation(SNSD), has been dropped by the agency, halting any plans she had with SNSD. This comes approximately 6 months after Kris Wu of EXO filed for a lawsuit, terminating his contract with SM, while F(x) member Sulli has left SM as well.

       Is there something going on within SM Entertainment that is forcing artists out? Both of this years issues have been linked to disputes between the artists' future and the plans of the agency. Jessica has recently begun her fashion line, and it seems that it is clashing with the plans SM has planned for her.
       Jessica's issue is not as severe as Kris', with SM Entertainment confirming that she will still be managed by the agency, the only change is that she will not be participating with SNSD in any of their promotional events or future albums as of now.
       But it seems that there is a misunderstanding between Jessica and SM. SM is stating that "This coming spring, due to her personal situation, she has notified us she will halt her team promotions with the release of one (more) album (source: allkpop)." But Jessica stated on Weibo differently.

      Jessica's post on her Weibo account states "I was excited about our upcoming fan events only to shockingly be informed by my company and 8 others that as of today, I'm no longer a member. I'm devastated....I am being forced out."
       Fans from all over the world show their outrage about the news, Jessica being one of the bigger names of Girls Generation, many just hoping that this is just a misunderstanding between the two sides. Many, like with Kris and EXO, are stating that Girls Generation needs to be a 9 member group, incomplete if one is absent.
      Jessica has been noted to be seeing an attorney, maybe just for advice, but it could also mean a lawsuit could be waiting in the shadows.
   
OCTOBER 5, 2014 UPDATE

       Over the last month, SM has noted the another member of EXO will be absent from promotions and shows. That member is Luhan, who is currently recovering from different symptoms, many saying related to extended fatigue. Information is swirling through the Internet, hinting that SM Entertainment and Luhan are headed to a crossroad. Luhan's declining health and SM's pressure for his return may just be the conflict between the groups.
       2014 has not been a good year for SM Entertainment and its' fans. But 2014 goes on, and we shall wait and see what it has in store for one of Korea's top entertainment corporations.
 

OCTOBER 7, 2014 UPDATE
       Luhan has filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment, seeking to nullify his contract with the company. It seems to be more than just absence due to illness that was keeping Luhan out of the SM Town World Concerts. Sources report that their have been conflicts between Luhan and SM Ent these past weeks. Luhan gave SM a deadline to resolve these differences, but it seems that the deadline has past. Luhan is apparently going in the same direction as former EXO-M leader Kris, with the same actions and law firm. With the possible exit of another member, could this be the end for EXO-M?

Hong Kong's Fight for Democracy

       The streets of Hong Kong are used to being crowded with people. But it has never been this type of crowded before. Thousands of protesters have crowded the streets of Hong Kong's business district, calling for democracy from China.
       This past weekend, Hong Kong citizens lined the streets, with police forces closely guarded with truncheons and shields, protesting for a fair and open election, and continuing to pressure Chief Executive Leung Chun-Ying to resign.

       This should be no surprise for many who have followed the news about the Chinese government, with many citizens protesting against it for quiet a while.      
       An estimate of 40 or more people have been injured, citizens and police alike, as they initiated the protest. Photos captured shows many of the police force pepper spraying and forcefully fighting against the protesters. Tear gas was soon released on mass, forcing protesters to take cover and normal citizens to stay in their homes.
       As shown in the image, many citizens were unarmed, some with merely masks and umbrellas to defend themselves.
       Many other citizens, not participating in the riot are also being effected. Many banks have been closed off, chaotic streets have made it hard for seniors and children to leave their homes. "Everything is fine so far, but citizens have been holding it in for long enough," a pro-democratic citizen stated, though not participating in the protest.
       As of right now, the crowds and police force have dispersed, allowing for the injured to rest up. Many are watching this closely, as many citizens here in Canada have family over in Hong Kong, China. "I hope my parents are okay, they're on a trip in Hong Kong now," a OCAD University student shared, "I'm glad I immigrated to Canada a few years ago, I wouldn't want to be in that situation right now."
       With social media sites such as Instagram blocked by the Chinese government, many rely on Facebook and Twitter to receive news an photos for updates. "Stay strong and safe" is a common phrase from those watching oversees.
       Democracy should not be something people should risk their lives for. People deserve the right to vote fairly, to have a government that supports its citizens They should not need so much violence to obtain what should already be theirs.

October 1, 2014 UPDATE
       The streets are in a peaceful state Tuesday morning, but transportation around is still a problem for many citizens. My correspondent in Hong Kong reports "It's peaceful here. Transportation through the roads are blocked, but MTR(Hong Kong subway) is okay."

       The police have also been working hard during these few days. Shown as the 'bad guys' in many articles, the police have been working hard to keep everyone in the city safe, "some working for 30 straight hours," reported my correspondent.
       Citizens are camping out on the streets during the day, lighting up the city with their cellphones while singing during the night. All is peaceful at this time.
       During this peaceful period in the streets of Hong Kong, citizens are still waiting peacefully for the resignation of Leung Ching-Ying soon. October 1 is the National Day in Hong Kong and many are hoping that it ends on a positive note.

 

OCTOBER 4, 2014 UPDATE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcuyN_z44Sc&feature=youtu.be

K-Pop Powerhouses, YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment, Set to Clash August 1

     August seems to be the month the big names are coming out to play. YG Entertainment has readied their fans for the big debut of WINNER, their boy group that will lead them in the next generation. Alongside WINNER, YG is also hinting about BIG BANG's comeback, the group who has led the company to stardom. SM Entertainment is also preparing the debut of their new girl group, Red Velvet, simultaneously with their 13 member group SUPER JUNIOR, preparing for their comeback.
     It's not a mere coincidence that YG's WINNER, and SM's Red Velvet are both reported to debut on August 1, 2014! Fans of each group have waited a long time to get their first look at what the new groups can do.

     Especially the fans of WINNER, who were supposed to debut at the conclusion of their show, WINNER TV, but was postponed by the company. Introduced through YG's reality competition, WIN: Who Is Next, WINNER has been seen together as a group for a bit more than a year now. Many netizens can be quoted "Why don't they just debut them already!" Though the company have given many teasers, with videos to photoshoots, all the fans seem to want is the debut of the group. August 1, is the groups "Grand Launch," fans will be waiting.
UPDATE: YG Ent released the album teaser for WINNER Aug 1st, announcing the debut album will be released on August 8, 2014. Once again, WINNER fans are left waiting a bit longer.
 

 The fans of Red Velvet, have been waiting a bit longer, though the group was not officially put together until last week. Fans were introduced to this new members through SM's, SM-ROOKIES. The members have made covers, and even sung soundtracks for Korean dramas. This is SM's first girl group debut since f(x), back in 2009. Red Velvet will make their stage debut on August 1 on Music Bank.
     Moving onto the veteran, world established groups, BIG BANG and SUPER JUNIOR, have gone head to head for quite some time now. Debuting in 2006 and 2005 respectively, these two groups have had their share in the international spotlight. Both groups' last Korean album release was back to 2012, STILL ALIVE by Big Bang and SEXY, FREE, AND SINGLE by Super Junior. At the 2013 Mnet Asian Music Awards, the most prestigious award ceremony for K-Pop, each received 3 top awards
                 

     Super Junior: Album of the Year, Best Global Group - Male, and Best Line Award

                       Big Bang: Best Male Group, Artist of the Year, and Best Male Solo (G-Dragon)

     Both veteran groups are expected to come up with high end songs once again. With SuJu leader Leeteuk returning from military duties, and Big Bang coming back together after each member released solo albums/tracks, it will be interesting to see what music they can create after 2 years.
     This will be an interesting battle, as the young and the old are set to battle off in the K-music world.

Bolt-less 100m Final Lacks Star Power and Speed: Commonweatlh Games

       The 100m Final is usually the main event of every Track and Field competition. Especially in recent years, with the likes of Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, Tyson Gay, and Justin Gatlin constantly facing off. But this years Commonwealth Games gives us a less star studded line-up at the starting line.
       With the stars out for many reasons, whether it be injury or personal reasons, the Commonwealth Games boasted what could possibly be the next generation of sprinters.
       The fastest man going into the men's 100m final today was Jamaica's Bailey-Cole, posting a time of 10.01 in qualifiers. Though it can't be called a slow time, track followers are used to the sub 10 second 100m that accompanies the event.

       K. Bailey-Cole stayed consistent during the final, running a 10.00sec 100, beating out England's Gemili's 10.10sec.
       We are hearing that Bolt will be available to run in the 4x100m tomorrow, so we can expect the track to be faster as the the 6-time Olympic Gold medalist takes the track for team Jamaica.

Young Canadian Talent Gaining Experience
       Canadians Aaron Brown and Donate Richards-Kwok both participated in the men's 100m semifinal today, finishing 5th(10.17sec) and 8th(10.42) respectively.
       On the women's side, Khamica Bingham finished 7th in the women's 100m final, finishing with a time of 11.37, slightly slower than her PB, 11.32, which she set in the semifinals earlier during the day.