WASHINGTON, D.C.—Giving the president a break from
hot-button topics like sequestration and his disagreements with the Republican
party, Reverend Al Sharpton changed the subject to sports during the latter part
of his radio interview with Mr. Obama this afternoon, asking the president what he
thought about the NHL's point system.
"Let me be clear," Obama said. "I didn't even
know the NHL had resolved its labor dispute and started playing. That being
said, I hope the oppressed party, be they players or owners, won.
"However, I must say that I am troubled by the point
system currently in use by the league. A team earns two points for a victory,
one point for an overtime loss, and no points for a conventional loss. This
seems unfair to me. Although one point for an overtime loss—which
was basically called a tie when I was younger—is empowering, I feel two points for
victory and none for defeat is far from fair. The losing team tried just as
hard as they could, and I believe they are entitled to a single point, which
should be taken from the victorious team."
Reverend Sharpton agreed wholeheartedly with President
Obama's proposal, then proceeded to take a call from a listener.
"Uh, hi, Reverend Al and President Obama," said
Greg from Cleveland.
"I hate to burst your bubble, but if you give teams one point each for a
win, loss, or tie, every team will be tied at the end of the season. Who do you
give the Stanley Cup to?"
