Well - as I wrote the last entry, the Panthers scored early in period 2 and the pressure was sliding to the other side of the table.  Florida was cycling well, peppering Dunham with a lot of shots.  The pessimistic side of me was starting to say that the team is losing its luster.

Enter second wind.

A great effort by Arron Asham gave the Isles a one goal lead, his first of the season.  His goal total is only one behind his fight count, but to his credit, as well as the other fourth line guys, they have played brilliant.  Last night, as well as the night before, all the forwards ice times were above the 10 minute mark.  This means that Ted Nolan has extreme confidence in all his guys, as well as keeping them fresh.

Then there is Mr. Dunham…

So many people were up in arms with the selection of the GM’s former teammate to play as RIck Dipietro’s backup for the season.  Not only has #1 been stellar, he has had some spectacular saves.  He has, in almost every case, been the cure that was needed to right the ship.  Although there was no problem with Ricky in the last few games (as a matter of fact, Ricky has been EXCELLENT!), Mike has been a great addition.

Was that pass from Blake to Yashin unreal?  These two guys have been just wonderful together.  Whatever happened to the guys that were supposed on each other like a two sisters angry at each other about the dress that each wants?  Well, in that picture, I think they have all made up and Blakey is trying to get another kiss in. He just can stop doing those french kisses. But you know, if they keep up with their efforts, they can cuddle all they want.

Satan got the empty net goal in the last minute to seal the deal.  I think Silly did a nice thing to se Miro the puck.  Miro has been struggling so much lately, he really needed a fluky goal, or something like this.   Maybe we will see more from #81.

MY THREE STARS:

1. Mike Dunham - no brainer - 43 saves, some of the highlight caliber
2. Alexei Yashin - so strong with the puck.  Keep it up buddy!
3. The Dads! - Did Garth tell you that you are staying all season?  Forget your jobs, forget the wives, you are STUCK Here!

Onto Toronto.  The first meeting with Mr. Peca this season.  So who is going to get the first hit on him?  And would someone please nail Mr. Tucker.

See you tomorrow.  Have a great Sunday.  Go Jets!

PS - My Toffees (Everton - English Premier League) got a 1-0 win against Bolton.  They are 6th in the league.

PPS - sympathies go to the Michigan family on the death of Bo Schembechler.  It made for a great game yesterday, that the Buckeyes won 42-39.  I also feel bad for Rutgers.  That great win against Louisville just seemed to be the over the top feeling.  The team seemed lost yesterday in their loss to Cincinatti, taking away any chances for a national title.