Quote:
Originally Posted by Joborule
Is it really that much more distracting than playing in New York or LA? Plus, many of these players may have already been to Vegas during the off season. Especially since the awards are hosted there. So I'm not sure I buy the distractions argument.
I think it's the case of the Knights just riding a very hot home ice advantage. They started the season off on an emotional high with the shootings, and now they're playing the season with the highest confidence since they've been yielding results.
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I dont know about distractions per se, but Vegas has a whole lot going for it.
They've got a helluva Home Ice advantage, and you're right about the shootings likely strengthening their resolve but lets not forget they've also got a bit of the 'Bad News Bears' syndrome going on.
Its a collection of cast-offs, thats gotta put a chip on your shoulder.
Combine it all under a coach who is going to squeeze every ounce of talent and motivation he can out of every single player and a group who, as a collective, have nothing to lose?
Its a potent combination.
I think the 'Vegas Flu' excuse actually does a disservice to the players who have really stepped up, saying 'well, their opposition are always tired and hungover' as opposed to giving credit to a very, very hardworking group.