[blender]

So after losing the first two games in Seattle the Blazers came hometown a raucous Sandman Centre for game 3, essentially a must-win game. There wouldn't be any shame in losing this series to the T-birds, but getting rolled would leave a bad taste for the next couple weeks, so at least show some push back tonight.

Seattle is stacked. Guenther, Lambert, captain and Flames prospect Lucas Ciona; they are well-coached, play fast and tough, big.

Atmosphere was great, the sea of white was pretty impressive and it was loud. The Blazers came out firing and generated some good looks but also were very loose and lucky not to be down after several breakdowns. They got the lead, gave it up and then got it back and carried the 2-1 score into the third in what became an intense physical battle. Blazers locked it down and got the EN and then scored a beauty one-timer play immediately after to close it out 4-1 with a bullet.
Zellweger is a beaut. No kidding. Watch for this kid. He skates like Brodie or better with great shooting and puck skills.
Stankoeven is so good that I take it for granted.
Ciona was unremarkable, but steady enough in an intense game with high-end talent.
Game 4 on Thursday is critical. Don't want to go back to Seattle down 3-1.