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What, you ask, is the script? Bernier stands on his head and keeps the team in but gets no goal support. JB was still good, but redirected goals by Glendening and Biega along with TB crashing the net allowed a normally insurmountable 4 opposition goals. Luckily Detroit’s big guns showed up and picked up a shootout win. Fabbri, Larkin, Mantha, Bertuzzi. Those names should instill some hope for the future.
And so, the what if’s creep in. What if Mantha hadn’t gotten hurt? Would a team with Larkin, Bertuzzi, Mantha, Fabbri and Zadina from start to finish have made much difference? Possibly in goals for. The differential may not be so embarrassing. The end result would be similar as defensively this team is “challenged….
I watched the Athanasiou trade with baited breath. In truth, Gagner has produced as much as A.A. has. Phew. If he’s retained, the top 6 looks better. Mantha is a presence that opens ice for everyone. It is such a different team up front. A team that is exciting at times. His shot is powerful and he is using his big frame. Zadina will be back soon. The final dozen could be fun to watch.
I won’t get too excited about individual stats, but chemistry is still important. The second line never really came together. Gagner, Fabbri, Zadina May be a good look. Regardless this team needs defense. Not go out and waste 9 mil but possibly secondary or tertiary agents or trades. Seider is playing 25 to 27 mins per night in GR, but more is needed. We’ll see what summer brings.
A win is a win. Two in a row is a bonus round and against old rivals. Beautiful. I hope you enjoyed the past two. It’s been a long time coming. Detroit is still comfortably 31st as LA and OTT both won as well. It’s nice to have a winning weekend for the first time since....
As the season winds down we will start to focus on the shifting landscape. 20 contracts need addressing (or ignoring). Changes are coming.