It was one of those quotes that, when uttered, leaves your mouth like a mailbox, hanging open in a permanent expression of disbelief:

“I just wanted to comment on how it’s become like a common thing in the NHL for guys to fall in love with my sloppy seconds. I don’t know what that’s about. But, enjoy the game tonight.”

The most contemptible man in the NHL, Sean Avery – a racist, a punk, and an incessant self-promoter – uttered the above quote with the cameras rolling a few hours before his Stars were going to take on the Calgary Flames. A guy from the Flames, Dion Phaneuf, dates actress Elisha Cuthbert, Avery’s ex.

Tough spot for the NHL regarding suspending the jackass. Almost certainly, you would have had a fight on your hands – perhaps even a major rumble. And if Avery’s teammates hate him as much as that link contends, then it might have been pretty one-sided.

But can you imagine the NFL acting in a similar manner if Philip Rivers started dating Tom Brady’s ex, Bridget Moynahan? That being said … does Avery have a point?

Phaneuf is now dating Cuthbert, Avery’s former girlfriend, who was also once romantically linked to Mike Komisarek of the Montreal Canadiens.

Previously, Avery was involved with actress Rachel Hunter, now the girlfriend of former Edmonton Oilers centre Jarrett Stoll, who now plays for the Los Angeles Kings.

Here’s hoping Phaneuf has friends who settle the score with Avery so we don’t have to wait until Feb. 3 (Calgary at Dallas) for the fisticuffs.