STOP THE SLUMP BEFORE IT HAPPENS

Coming into last night's game we were 1-1-1 in our last three. A loss last night would have imposed a 1-2-1 record, or three losses in four games and despite games we [i]should[/i] have won, we would have qualified for a bonified slump. The first priority for the team was to pick up the two points and nip any chance of a slide in the but. Some may call last night's game uninspired (except for that sweet Plekanec goal) and they would be right, but the fact of the matter is the team came through and did what it had to in order to squeeze out 2 points.

Not enough credit is given to locker room atmosphere and team morale. It is after all the reason why teams who are "gelling" keep gelling, and teams where nothing seems to be working just keep getting worse. Although the HABS started off the season strong as far as team moral is concerned, following the demoralising loss against Atlanta and the heartbreaking loss against Toronto, they are walking a thin line.

The performance against Philly showed character and was a giant leap on getting back on the horse. But the blow on Saturday clearly ruffled a few feathers, and this was apparent in the team's performance last night. The win against Buffalo will go a long way in restoring some egos and confidence, but the team remains, at least in my opinion, fragile. Wins on Thursday and later on against Toronto on Tuesday are imperative if this team is to get back on the horse fast. A good hustle (and hopefully a win) against Ottawa would also help in getting the team back moral back, which should lead to playing the high tempo game for 60 minutes, out shooting and out hustling the opposition.

With all that said let us rejoice at our four point MN drop and its continuing descent towards 0. Also it's nice to return to the number four spot in both point and NL standings (we are currently third in net points). And of course Huet's shutout was overdue...now we'll wait for Price's first :D