Forwards Barret Ehgoetz, Dustin Sproat, Matt Pierce, Ryan DelMonte and the rest have had games with spectacular scoring, followed by games where the team has been lifeless.
Defense: This group has had a bit of a rough spell; playing tight ,checking, smothering defense during the final thirty minutes of each game. Most nights Chuck Weber has cobbled together as many healthy bodies as possible. The return of Reid Cashman has helped to solidify the corps in time for this series.
Special Teams: Again, leading in scoring shorthanded goals, the penalty kill unit has been adding to the scoring as best it can. The power play unit has had some trouble getting shots on goal. Then at other times can be a monster roaring in against an unready opponent.
Goaltending: Jeremy Smith has been the show this post season, as tandem-mate Robert Mayer sits on the pine in the AHL, behind Cedrick Desjardins of the Hamilton Bulldogs. Smith has been spectacular and acrobatic in his performance thus far. 
Coaching: It is well known that this team of Chuck Weber and Dean Stork can bring it during the post season, as they have been in their now third Conference Finals in three seasons.
Intangibles: The experience and leadership on this squad is an impressive mix of veterans and rookies. The netminding is an all rookie tandem. The Club seems to be motivated well and performing in a timely manner.
Prediction: I expect a drawn out series, due in part to the intense rivalry developed during the 2007-08 post season series, which went the full seven games.
Contact the writier at Rob.Huelsman@prohockeynews.com
You must be logged in to post a comment.