Another tough night

Well once again lady luck decided not to take sides with our Heroes from HockeyTown as although they beat Colorado in almost every facet of the game, they fell short in the category that matters the most – on the scoreboard.

Just like a week ago at the Joe, the Red Wings kept Avalanche goalie Craig Anderson busy, peppering him with 49 shots, but were only able to put the burnt biscuit in the basket once on Kris Drapers tough put back goal in the second. Colorado tied the game before the end of period, and then took the lead just past the half way point of the third. They sealed it with an empty netter on a timely won faceoff as a Wings’ power play came to an end.

This game was also the first of the season that the Wings were unable to score when having the man advantage.

After listing to the talking heads on Fox Sports Detroit, and reaction from Mike Babcock, Bertuzzi and Hank, it seems that from what they are saying, they are keeping their heads up and trying to keep positive. However, when Todd was being interviewed by the hoard of journalist in the locker room, it seemed that the frustration was coming through in his demeanor.

I feel that the Wings still have a lot to be positive about. Sure failing to get that elusive first road win was disappointing, but they continue to out work the other team, and really put together a full game in this one. However, if any player deserves to be a little frustrated tonight, 44 would be the guy.

The effort put forth by Todd was the best I think I have seen since his days in Vancouver. He used his vintage strength, but also looked to be a bit faster then usual. He had a great chance to put the wings up early in the third, but clinked one off the post. No, it is not going to be turned into shot No. 50; the attempt clearly beat Anderson, but just got the right post. Although it was a big miss, it was a great play by a player who I have been waiting to see step up and make his presence felt. I hope that he continues to become more of a force and is part of the turnaround that I know is coming.

Also, in his second game back, Datsyuk again looked like a Tilt-A-Whirl out there, spinning and making the Av defense look like a fairgoer ready to upchuck the six corn dogs and three elephant ears they had for lunch. Seeing him and Hank back together on the ice is also a reassuring sign that the Wings are very close to turning it around.

I know the loss tonight was tough (especially for all my fellow Michigan State fans who watched Iowa suck the air out of Spartan Stadium…but that’s for another blog site, not mine), but if you watched the game Saturday, there is still a lot to be upbeat about for our team. The pieces are falling into place and if once that win comes, we could start seeing something that resembles the Red Wing teams we have become accustom to over the last two decades.

On a side note, did anyone see John Keating’s interview with Adam Foote? The Avs captain was sporting a nice look. If I can find a photo or a still I will post it so you can see it. Any time I see a Colorado player sporting a mug like that, I can’t help but smile.

Stay up HockeyTown!!!!