0043: A Fool for the Moose

Taking a break from Winter Classic Weekends to celebrate April Fool's Day! Last year when we found out the Atlanta Thrashers were headed to Winnipeg, the rumors flew. We'd heard from Mark Chipman that he had no desire to resurrect the Jets and, in fact, every intention to carry on the successful branding of his AHL team, the Manitoba Moose. But we were fooled. On Draft Day, it was confirmed the franchise would be named the Jets. Still, Tyler Rodgers has sent in what may have been a great upgrade to the Moose brand. Shame we'll never see it go beyond this page.

0042: An Ohio Classic

Before the Columbus Blue Jackets ever turn up in a Winter Classic, they need to get a lot better. But I think they'll make it eventually. Ohio is a great place for outdoor hockey. And when the time comes, perhaps the team could honor its in-state predecessor. That's what Trevor Richards has for us — a Blue Jackets uniform with all the marks of the old Cleveland Barons.

0041: The Identity Crisis Islanders

On this Freak Out Friday, we continue a neat series by Ross Taylor. Over the last couple of weeks, he's merged identities of teams from different eras but tied to one city. For this one, it's one team with multiple identities rolled in to one. I have to be honest, I don't hate it. But then I never hated the fisherman as much as other people did. It was really just the wavy striping that got me. Very amateur. The rest of the uniform was pretty solid.

As it turns out, this series won't be ending here. It was originally planned for three weeks, but Ross has since provided a lot more examples of his brand blending. So I'm sure we'll see more next week. But I won't give anything away yet.

Meantime, if what you want has more of an Ohio flavor — say, a combination of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Cleveland Barons — then you're in luck with tomorrow's Winter Classic concept. Don't miss it.

0040: Marooned

This one's just for fun, today. Exactly no one is looking to add a second NHL team in Montreal. And even fewer are eager to rename or rebrand the Canadiens — one of the world's most recognizable brands. But as a flight of fancy, what if the Montreal Maroons ever came back to the NHL? Nick Burton offers his take for our enjoyment. It's cool. And maroon.

0039: A Throwback Third for the Jets

A lot of us are hoping the Winnipeg Jets are considering a third jersey for 2012, if for no other reason than it would mean we'd get to see a new jersey in the NHL this fall. But if it happens, what should it look like? Peter Debay recommends a bit of a throwback. Personally, I like the old logo but I'm worried the striping is too reminiscent of the Rangers. Maybe something close?