Well after that weekend I told myself that I wouldn't come on to the Inferno for a while because that performance was just too painful and I didn't want to be reminded of it. A few days later, I felt the need to see how everybody was doing. After a stellar weekend the previous week where all of us felt that we had finally come together as a top team, the boys came out and stunk the joint out. Plain and simple. There were a series of unfortunate events behind the scenes during the week that definitely contributed to the performance but excuses are for losers and in no way explains the terrible performance in back to back games.
Clearly this team has not come together the way it was envisioned. Is it possible that it does come together over the next few weeks and we drive on to repeat as champions? Yes it is possible. We still have the core of a champion and led by the best coach in our league. Is there room for improvement in the roster that could lead to change? Absolutely. We have worked very hard to create a winning culture within the Devils organisation. Everyone that comes here knows that winning the league title is not just hoped for but expected now. If we feel that this group is not capable of doing that, we are not opposed to making changes. With that being said, that would be a very well thought out decision and would not be taken lightly. These are real people with real lives and families that we're dealing with and the other thing we've come to be known for around the hockey world is not just winning, it's dealing with everybody with class and respect. So no moves for the sake of moves but if there is a very clear upgrade out there and the circumstances are perfect, we can and will act.
Keep on believing in this team. Struggles and disappointments are what make the successes that much sweeter. We've gone through tough times every year including last year and the character of this group has shone through more often than not. The one thing that we can't do without is the power of the Red Army.
