Friday: Festivals in Buffalo, Hockey Everywhere Else

This week there are several festivals in my neck of the woods, but that doesn't mean that we're not following hockey news with the major off-season dates behind us. Tell that to Ilya Kovalchuck who is retiring from the NHL supposedly to go to home Russia to be with family. Anyway, 'tis the season of the HJC Open. All reminders, as necessary, have been placed below.

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COTY-June vote (ends tonight @ 11:59pm Eastern)

COTW July 1-7 vote (ends tonight @ 11:59pm Eastern)

HJC Open Round 1 voting (ends Sunday @ 6pm Eastern)

*HJC Open votes will be cast on the contest page

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Chicago Blackhawks (Dylan W.)

     {These are two separate Winter Classic concepts}

I'm going to look at these together, but will still earn separate reviews. I can't like any of it as I cannot associate the Hawks without any placement of red. Also I don't think these would pass as Winter Classic jerseys either. However, I do see good "Black Ice" merchandise, but the whites have no place in anything for me. The difference in the two concepts is the striping pattern. I prefer the chest stripes since there are too many on the hem and sleeve striping for such a classic (original) team.The one on top has a value of a 5.5 out of 10 and the one below it a 7 out of 10.

EHC Black Wings Linz (Jake88)

Jake88 returns this week with a new series covering the Austrian League. This is something I would really like to see it on a jersey in the NHL where it applies . . . not necessarily this particular stitching pattern, but that would work too. Maybe a thin black/white stripe to separate the two other stripes on the socks belonging to the appropriate jersey. A solid 8.5 out of 10.

HC TWK Innsbruck (Jake88)

I really appreciate the fact that Jake 88 has taken time to cover European hockey regardless of how they've turned out. this is no different I see a lot of different teams this one could used for but it still has its own sort of identity I'm not sure how to explain that notion. I'd like to see the yoke a different shape, but that is a minor thing in this case. A 9 out of 10 and a CotW nomination from me.

Buffalo Sabres (Michael G.)

Striping's good, yokes are good (if outlines are added), equipment except for gloves are good. Crest logo is passable but would prefer the 40th anniversary script. Name should be solid darker color on road white, kill the slug an replace it with the "sabre in a  B," and the gloves should be one solid color. Not bad overall, but not necessarily preferred - an 8 out of 10.

Toronto Maple Leafs (Charles)

I like what's trying to be done, but it reminds me of those 90s MLB futuristic jerseys. I also believe that this isn't the right template to do them on. Else-wise we have a good looking uniform for an 8 out of 10.

Dallas Stars (Randall)

Has anyone's opinion on the new look changed now that there has been time to let it sink in? This one seems similar to many of the concepts I have seen but paying close attention, it is on a very basic template. I like that green and not black is the focus of the home green. Unfortunately nothing stands out I think maybe a change in striping pattern may help with that. A 7.5 out of 10.

Utica Comets (Justin S.)

Appropriate considering the affiliate, however, this isn't overdone so much that it screams Canucks at you. The only thing is that I cannot figure how to change the top portion of the sleeve towards the cuffs. I feel like it needs something. Maybe green? I really haven't the faintest idea. An 8.5 out of 10.

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I am still figuring out how to get my creativity going with the mix and match downloadable. I have been having a lot of fun with it though. Don't be afraid to give it a try it could be the next step to making improved concepts, I know it's helped me. Keep sending us your stuff. That's why I'm writing - to be amazed by your masterpieces and of course it's okay if you don't. But regardless my critique there will always be someone to be in awe of your imagination! Have a wonderful weekend!

-Ricky