MotownMadman

Said it better than I could. Yes, there were calls and no-calls I disagree with, but you typically enjoy some luck in winning the Cup (last year the Wings got to the SCF going through 3 teams with significant injuries) and the Pens capitalized on their chances and the Wings didn't. If the Wings had lost the series against Anaheim, I would have never let the problems with the calls go (they still burn me), but there was no bias in the calls in the Finals like there was in that series. Also, anyone who can't see the difference in play between the Wings in games 1 and 2 (lots of energy, checks completed, going to the net) and in games 6 and 7 (few checks, being satisfied with perimeter shots), go back and watch the games. I'm not happy with how the series turned out, but I accept that the Pens won based on their efforts.

Short time reader, first time poster. Thanks for posting this wheelchair. I've been thinking that Bylsma outcoached Babs in the SCF Final and that's one of the reasons the Wings lost. The Pens maintained their energy and physical game even after getting shutout 5-0 and the Wings failed to show up in game 6 when the Cup was within their grasp. Part of that is coaching. Great post. Bowman held all players accountable, even benching Shanny at times. People have brought up Drapes and Malts, but what about Sammy skating by while Kennedy nets the eventual game winner in game 6? "Yeah, of course you're still in the line-up. It's all good." is not an effective response. And like others mentioned. You get a goal in each of the first two games of the series (one of which was very close), it's inconceivable that you're taken out of the line-up unless you make the mother of all screw ups (Brad Stuart's numerous giveaways would be good examples here).