Trouble in The State Of Hockey

That's what Russo seems to think, and after last nights performance, he may be right. Our Minnesota Wild have always been known for their 'button it down' play when they were able to get a lead. The franchise history has been one of holding onto that lead and earning the two points. Last season for example, the Wild had a 23-3-4 record when leading the game after one period. And when leading after 2 periods, this team has been almost unbeatable...in past seasons that is.

Post-game blowup

I am not sure what the mindset of the players were last night. And if you heard any of Coach Jacques Lemaire's comments after the Wild lost 5-3 to Ottawa, after blowing a 3-0 first period lead, you would have noticed by his tone that he did not understand them either. In fact, even though I have not heard all of his post-game news conferences, I cannot recall one where our coaches level of anger and disgust was this high. And in my opinion, he had a right to be this upset. In fact (you heard it here first) this game will be looked back upon as the straw that broke Lemaire's back when we ponder why we are in search of a new coach before next season.

Our veteran leader

You have to love the energy and grit that Owen Nolan has been showing this season, and especially of late. His leadership qualities are definitely on display at the rink as fans can see that he is trying so desperately to carry this team on his back. And for an NHL'er of his age, this is no easy task. The 37 year old has 27 points so far this season but his point totals in recent games are whats impressive to me. Over the past 9 games, Nolan has 11 points that included 4 multi-point games. And it was a great spectacle watching him try to complete a hat-trick last night before the roof caved in and the team folded. Before the collapse though, he did net 2 goals and added an assist, all in the first period. I give credit to GM Doug Risebrough for this signing...