The Wings are down 3-0, and it’s time to change things up around here. So behold, my first movie-themed post. What movie is better to start off with than the modern hockey classic, The Mighty Ducks? None.
Goldberg, you’re the goalie, it’s supposed to hit you
Jimmy Howard has carried the Wings this far, but his play has dropped off a bit. He’s given up a few weak goals and has allowed four goals in every game this series. If Detroit is going to 1942 Maple Leaf the Sharks, he’s got to turn it around. Now.
I don’t mind losing, I’d just like to lose fairly
Let’s face it, no matter if you’re a Wings fan or Sharks fan the officiating in this series has been horrid. Phantom slashes and goalie interference calls have led to a huge penalty discrepancy through the first two games. Detroit was the second-least penalized team during the regular season, but the most penalized team in the post season. Put the whistles away tonight and let the Wings decide if they want to keep playing or not. Three to four penalties—for both teams—max, please.
It’s not worth winning if you can’t win big
This 4-3 stuff has been nice for hockey fans, but it’s time the Wings kicked it into fifth gear tonight. Detroit had a 3-1 lead in the third period of Game 3 and sat back, allowing San Jose to tie the score. Run up the score if you can. No holding back tonight.
Yo dude, you obviously in the wrong hood! This is my dominion.
Detroit has been spectacularly awful at home these playoffs. Detroit has won just one game at home this post season (Game 4 against Phoenix). Detroit needs to protect home ice a lot better than it has been.
Concentration, not strength
Officiating aside, the Wings have killed themselves with untimely penalties. Detroit will have to be extra-disciplined tonight because the refs are calling everything that they touch.
You may have paid for that jersey sir, but you didn’t earn it
Mattias Ritola will make his playoff debut tonight, taking the place of Jason Williams. Ritola will be a restricted free agent in the off season, and scoring a couple goals tonight would go a long way toward getting him a contract next year.
You may make it, you may not. What matters is we’re here.
Win or lose tonight, the Red Wings went on a remarkable stretch just to get back into the playoffs. While being swept would be the ultimate disappointment, the fact Detroit has gotten back to its’ 19th straight post season is something to be proud of.
Filed under: Previews Tagged: | Detroit Red Wings, game 4, playoffs, San Jose Sharks
