I've never had much much interest in what Sean Avery does on or off the ice, but the Dallas Stars player (actually, he's more of a rover who just happens to be passing through Texas, having traveled from Detroit, to L.A., to the NY Rangers) seems like one who enjoys being in trouble.

That can be a nice way to stay in the public eye and consider oneself an outsider. However, the crude comments shared this week about his ex-girlfriend reveal the pleasure he takes in causing trouble, much like the way a former Piston, Dennis Rodman. According to reports, Avery approached a group of reporters, made his quick statement and then thanked them, asking them to enjoy the game. Video coverage seems to reveal a smile as he heads towards the troubling phrase.

This was planned out, I believe.

With his past troubles, including allegedly referring to a player's cancer and an obnoxious display in blocking goalie Martin Brodeur in the playoffs, this was just another way to get himself into the spotlight.

Kudos to the league for their swift response, suspending him that same day, which I think helped shape the comments from his bosses and teammates (both current and former), which were exclusively negative. There was little defense of Avery and his subsequent apology — "I would like to sincerely apologize for my off-color remarks to the press yesterday from Calgary. I should not have made those comments and I recognize that they were inappropriate. It was a bad attempt to build excitement for the game, but I am now acutely aware of how hurtful my actions were." — seemed weak and with little sincerity (especially when you have to tell people you are sincere).

To me, the comments were just rude and idiotic, more indicative of the speaker rather than the subject. But his desire to stir the pot, with something this absolutely juvenile and stupid, is what makes me sick of this character.

Here's hoping his foot stays in his mouth and his skates stay off the ice.