The time is now
Nov 17, 2008
The time is now...
We have reached a point in the National Hockey League schedule where teams start to evaluate what they have. The twenty or twenty five game level is a logical place to stop and asses what team's need and where they are going. The Carolina Hurricanes have the opportunity to reach this benchmark on a high if they can continue to build momentum. With four of their next five and seven of their next nine at the RBC Center, the Canes need to win the majority of these games. If that can be accomplished, they will be set up as a legitimate force in the Eastern Conference. A win one, lose one scenario will tell us they they once again have gone into the land of the "average play". A sub par record would be a disaster.
The Canes have had a long week. A three game losing streak was put to rest yesterday by overcoming a two goal deficit to defeat the Tampa bay Lightning in a penalty shot contest. A punitive practice was staged on Thursday after getting man handled at home by Washington. A collective singing of Kumbaya was staged on Saturday after seeing signs of life in a loss at Atlanta. The Canes have reached that point where they can't lean on too much. The roster is getting healthier, the chemistry is starting to be present and the schedule will be in their favor.
It's separation time in the NHL. Look around and you see it happening. As we slide into the final month of 2008, team's that can be accepted as "legit" are staking their claims. San Jose, Detroit, NY Rangers, Minnesota, Montreal, Pittsburgh and maybe Washington are starting to show off. Everybody else kind of gets in line unless they can keep up with the pace. Even yesterday's win by the Canes which was a feel good moment can be a tease. Sure it was what the doctor ordered, but if not for the spectacular goal tending of Cam Ward, what would have happened ? In addition, a point gained is a point given away to a division and conference contender.
The time is now for the Canes to play complete efforts. It's time for Cam Ward and Eric Staal to show off why they are the foundation of what will happen on Edwards Mill Rd. for years to come. It's time to fix the fundamental defensive concerns that have been plaguing this team. They sit three points out of first place in their division and there is a huge fork in the road. Turn on your GPS and find your way Canes, it's that imperative.
Talk to you on Wednesday.
