And I Missed A Good One

So of course my own req team had to have its yearly fundraiser on a night where the Oilers took the Wild to school. And although I have yet to see the box scores or any real game breakdown, one thing I am noticing, is: A- Mr Dustin Penner ( AKA Donair express ) is showing no signs of slowing down. And: B-  Brule is adjusting back into the NHL like a real pro should. I am really liking the progress this team has been making in terms of the system and compeditivness. Now if only they can get Hemsky to show a little interest and this team would start flying. Im not sure what Hemmers problem has been so far this year. He is doing a decent job producing, and yet he looks like he could give so much more. I know he usually starts slow and based on what he has done so far he will damn near hit the 80 point mark, which he has not done since 05/06 and given a few great multi point games he MAY even hit 90. But something seems off in him. Disinterest? Undisclosed injury? Or maybe system adjustment (although I recently wrote about how he seems to be buying in lately) It is just so hard to pinpoint it.

In any case, there is alot to be happy about right now with the oilers. they are middle of the NW division and look like they are just getting their feet under them. to me that means that by the end of the year they may actually be able to at least compete for that top spot in the NW. And THAT is something to celebrate. Even if they dont capture another banner to hang in the rafters, they are still going to make the playoffs regardless of the rankings they recieved before the year started. The kids can finally get a taste of the post season and that alone will make wonders for the team. That is the type of experience I want to see this team get so they can have something to aim for. A focus for the season. (IMO the main reason they had so many problems in the past couple years.) It doesnt seem so bad to lose something you have never had. But once you have tasted success it is hard to sit back and just let it slip ever again.

I just hope Quinn can hold them all together for the full season so they DO feel thatt success. "Keep them motivated and give them something to shoot for" should be the mantra the Oiler brass should be chanting.

In the meantime I'll continue to ride the rollercoaster that is the Oiler season and take pleasure in watching them mature as a team.