Well I figured now would be a good time to make my first post and insert my 2 cents.
First off, I am disappointed with the outcome of todays game just like anyone else here. But, what can you do? It's done with now and we just have to find a way to win one there and then take it back here. Personally, I don't think the Ducks can win 3 games in a series at the Joe. So what follows is my list of reasons why I think we can take this series still...
1. Grit and determination: I think we can all agree that the wings have shown us more of both than anyone expected this playoff year. Why should that end now? I know the fans will piss and moan and be sad with this loss (including me) but the players are professional enough and experienced enough to put it in the past and carry on. That is what they are paid to do. Forge on.
2. Experience: Plenty of guys in the locker room that have been in plenty of adverse situations. I think this is what separates the wings from younger inexperienced teams such as the Ducks.
3. Desperation: Combine the above with the deperate play of having your back to the wall and something is bound to give.
4. Heart: The Wings have shown a hell of a lot of heart through the playoffs. I suspect we will see more, even if it comes to a bitter end.
5. Intangibles/Breaks: Mickey Redmond once said that in a 7 game series breaks have a way of evening out. I recall him saying it in 02 when we were down 0-2 in the first 2 games against Vancouver. Well, we all know what ended up happening with the breaks in that series....
6. The 02 Colorado series: I don't think the wings will repeat and win game 6 and 7 just because they did it in 02. I think they will do it because of the reasons above mixed with the fact that there are a handful of guys left that can draw off that experience.
Regardless of what happens, the Wings have proved many people wrong and exceeded expectations of many. People should'nt be angry with them if they lose this series. It's playoff hockey and anything can happen. But be proud of the Red Wings, I know I am.
