My biggest problem, once again, relates to production issues. Mostly, my criticism centers on outdated photos. Given today's technology, from photography to printing to distribution, there's no reason why certain cards, such as Colorado's Ryan Smyth (but wearing one of the Islanders' hideous third jerseys), could have used photos taking during introductory press conferences.At the least, a player would be shown with his new team. It could also add to the demand for this early-season 297-card release. Though Upper Deck provides a Sept. 20 release date (wink, wink; nudge, nudge), I've read it could be next week.
Other big-name players in this predicament include St. Louis' Paul "Cha-cha-cha" Kariya, Detroit's Brian Rafalski and the Rangers' Scott Gomez. For my friends in Buffalo, some of whom I've already irked, I'll refrain from mentioning others.
Another point of contention is the lack of imagination within the design of the set. The Blake card looks just like this one of New Jersey's Sergei Brylin, from UD's 2006-07 MVP release. The biggest change: minor tweakings around the photo frame. Continuity? Perhaps. Laziness? Couldn't tell you.Finally, for hounds, the silver-foil imprinted "autographs" on most of these cards open doors to players saying they've already signed them. Yeah, most times they're kidding.
You'll find enough useful cards within the checklist -- think Colorado's Brett Clark, Boston's Dennis Wideman, New Jersey's Johnny Oduya and Philadelphia's Ben Eager, to warrant a box, especially at what should be affordable (less than $50 a box, I'd say) prices. Beyond that, though, it's your call.
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