You might call it managing expectations, but given that: they were expected to be a lottery favorite; they've dressed a lot of rookies, including one on the top line and one in goal for 5 games; Monahan is a sophomore and a young one at that; they lost Gio at a critical time; they spent a large portion of the year without Backlund and Stajan; they lost Smid; they traded Glencross; and they went through an often unlucky 8 game losing streak, my conclusion is this:
I will be most unhappy if they miss, but not disappointed - there is a difference. They've far exceeded expectations, so that is the opposite of disappointing. We've gotten to see what the future holds, which is very promising especially on top 4 D, down the middle and in goal, and possibly where improvement is needed (bottom end D, RW, maybe secondary scoring). We have a solid prospect pool and a boatload of picks.
Unhappy for the players (and for the inevtiable I told you sos from the north)? Sure, but that'll last a week or so.
|