With 32 games played, there's 50 games remaining in the season, meaning there's 100 points up for grabs.
They currently have 35 points, and to make the 96 point playoff mark, they'll need 61 more points in their remaining 50 games. Therefore, they'll have to play at a .610 point percentage rate. A scenario record they can account for to achieve that is 30-19-1. Less wins would have to also mean for less losses, and two OTLs to account for each missed win.
It's doable, but they need to get their act together and start winning at a clip of 2 out of every 3 games. Losing streaks set them dangerously back unless they can amount several game winning streaks in return. Essentially, the team, once again like last year, will have to be one of the hottest team coming into the playoff stretch to try to clinch a spot.
So has the team progressed from last year? Doesn't look like it. Asking for lightning to strike in the same spot is a lot to ask for. Gulutzan gotta get wins from here on out, otherwise this time, the team will likely get the worst possible result, and miss the playoffs in a year they simply cannot afford to.
I don't really want to entrust him in doing that role since the results haven't been delivered up to this point. Relying on OT to win games in not a successful formula. Playing to not lose is not a successful strategy. And just gifting teams you're battling in the playoff race free points doesn't help your positioning on the standings.
This team needs to win more often than lose (duh), and get the wins in regulation at that.
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