Head Games
Nov 21, 2008
Head Games...
It was great to see Sergei Samsonov finish off a beautiful pass from Patrick Eaves on Tuesday to register his first goal of the season. It's obviously been a long time coming and certainly let's hope it's a precursor of things to come. Tonight, as the Canes look to continue their momentum let's hope the same "breaking of the dam" occurs for Eric Staal. In a season where everybody is scratching their heads wondering why his offensive production has been stalemated maybe it's as simple as the mind taking over the body. Listen, I'm no Dr. Phil (wouldn't want to be) and certainly have never walked in this players shoes, but it appears that a little positive karma tonight against the "Great One's" desert dogs might go a long way.
Speaking with Matt Cullen last week the conversation got around to Eric Staal and what he's going through. Matt remembered back to time when early in his career he was put into a position of trying to justify to himself his first lucrative contract. He mentioned that it took him at least 25 to 30 games before he could play "his" game and not worry about trying too hard to prove he was worthy. It becomes counter productive. He spoke about the respect he and his teammates have for number 12 and how no one it that room cares more than Eric. I found it very revealing considering he basically brought it up out of no where.
I bring this up not as a Staal apologist but more as a depiction of what some of the athletes battle in terms of the mental side of the game. These guys are the best in the world at what they do. They are well compensated. In Eric's case really well compensated. Hockey players for the most part don't possess that since of entitlement that unfortunately some athletes develop today. Some are in a way taken back by the money that they are awarded for playing the same game many grew up playing in their backyard. I know where you probably going, c'mon Fors give me a break we would all like to have those million dollar worries. I hear ya, on that one but when a player of this ability struggles there has to be something ticking.
Look at his line mates for example. On the left side you have Mr. Samsonov. He joined the Canes in January of last year, was a point a gamer and earned a brand new three year contract well before the free agency period even started. Now he comes back the same guy, good attitude everything to play for and it takes him 19 to get his first. You wonder why. Is it lack of effort ? Poor attitude ? Bad Luck ? Well, maybe too much effort or too much care leads to the hex. On the right side you have Tuomo Ruutu, who arguably has been Carolina's best forward this season. After shaking off an early injury he's healthy, happy and let ting it all hang out. There's a jump in his step that has correlated directly to big points. But remember, he's playing for that contract. He signed a one year deal during this past summer. It's a totally different mindset, he's playing for the bowl of lucky charms.
Now, we get back to franchise player. Yes, earlier this season he played through an injury. Nobody admitted it but It had to hamper him a bit. He played through it and made some offensive contributions. Now it's completely dried up. His game is starting to look a little uncharacteristic. His skating stride a bit off. His play making decisions not quite right and a times has turned the puck over or taking the odd penalty. In all aspects of his makeup, talent and character, this doesn't jive. Maybe Eric is experiencing what his mate Cullen spoke about. Maybe he's trying to put too much weight on those broad shoulders. I will tell you this, I liked his practice yesterday and his mood afterward.
It's the Hurricanes Dad's weekend (I don't why they don't do a Mom's weekend for a change) and under these circumstances, Eric has been at his best. Maybe it starts tonight. take the lead from number 15 and let it all hang out. It time to see that fist pump on the glass after scoring that big goal. It's time too witness that big smile while out of breath along the bench. The "Great One's" in the house. He had the ability to play his best under the brightest lights. Well, the lights aren't exactly the brightest on November 21st in Raleigh, but guess what big boy it's time to get going.
Sometimes the head takes over and dominates in a negative direction. I know you heard Ray Whitney at the end of the Montreal game, "we have to get the big boy going." They will, he can't do it alone.
Cheers !
