Think hockey players partake in March Madness betting? When I look at the way some guys are playing of late, I wonder if they’re too busy making online betting picks on other sports or something. What else would explain sudden drops in caliber of play from star players like, I dunno…Dion Phaneuf?

Just kidding, Dion. I doubt you’re involved in any big March Madness betting. I wasn’t kidding about your play, though. Check out the career numbers, NHL betting fans:

2005-06: 82 games, 20 G, 29 A, 49 PTS, +5, 16 power-play goals

2006-07: 79 games, 17 G, 33 A, 50 PTS, +10, 13 power-play goals

2007-08: 82 games, 17 G, 43 A, 60 PTS, +12, 10 power-play goals

This season: 72 games, 11 G, 32 A, 43 PTS, -11, 4 power-play goals

What the hell? Obviously, Phaneuf still has 10 games left and could improve upon those numbers. But those who bet hockey certainly see some alarming trends there — a big minus rating on a first-place team, a massive drop in power-play goal production, and a sudden reputation for improvising on “D” when he shouldn’t. He also isn’t dishing out as many thundering hits as normal.

I can’t help but wonder if dating Elisha Cuthbert has anything to do with Dion’s play. Really, it’s the only factor (as far as we know) in life that has changed from last season. In fact, Phaneuf’s supporting cast in Calgary is as good as it’s ever been, so the argument that 24’s Kim Bauer is messing with his game is that much more valid.

Wake up, Dion! She’s gorgeous but the time to enjoy her is the summer! If you’re not careful, you’ll be left off the Canadian Olympic team next year…