[monkeyman]

This team is certainly playing better, especially defensively, but there are still some disturbing trends that are not being addressed.
First, the start. this team again started slow and unprepared.
Second, the first line. This line is playing soft with too many behind the back and blind passes that end up going the other way. Monahan and Ferland are two big bodies who refuse to throw a single check or even muck it up a little. Think of the room they'd create for Johnny by throwing the odd hit now and then.
Third, the special teams. The special teams looks terrible, whatever the plan is to enter the offensive zone, it's not working. They should reconsider the rush and backhand drop pass in the neutral zone, especially against a team that likes to line up along the blue line. It's ineffective.
Fourth, the passing and decision making is not sharp. Too many slow developing plays, delayed and errant passes. I remember Hartely saying he liked to practice at a fast pace so his players would be used to it for games. I'm betting GG does not share this philosophy.
Fifth, this team does not work hard enough. They did for the third period last night and it payed off, but they don't do it on a regular basis, instead trying to rely on pretty passes and finesse.

Bottom line, with the talent they have, they should be beating teams missing several of their regular forwards and playing their backup goalie, but you're kidding yourself if you think this team has solved all of its glaring deficiencies. They haven't, and until they do, they will continue to struggle to find consistency and elevate themselves to that next level, which is what GG was brought in to do.