I have to admit that I was ready to walk away from the TV after the second period. I'm glad I didn't as the remainder of the game had me on the edge of my chair. The ending was deflating but it was exciting. I'm going to Monday's game (first live game since way before the pandemic) and am truly looking forward to it although I'll have to buy something white to fit in. I'm hoping that Marks/Sportschek will have at least a white t-shirt. Win or lose it will be a blast to be a part of that "White Out" crowd.
I thought Samberg played well all things considered. The pass that lead to the goal was, basically, an unforced error. The play probably should have been a pass along the wall to the winger (was it Connor?) instead of trying the direct line route through the Vegas forward. However, if it were Connor, who was having trouble handling the puck most of the game, Samberg might have thought that a straight-line pass was better. C'est la vie. He'll learn from this. I saw a couple teammates consoling him which is a good start.
And Pionk, well, I've been on his case all season but he played well (my eye test). He definitely carried the load after Morrisey's departure. Kudos to him. He'll be counted on for the remainder of the series.
A lot of folks having been railing against Wheeler for most of the season and I'm thinking they were on the mark. The play seems to die whenever the puck is anywhere near his stick. He may sporadically make a great pass but, man, he certainly has lost the ability to take one.
Given the team's list of injuries, Helly will have to revert to "Vezina Helly" for the team to have any hope. So, here's hoping.
I've got more opinions (inconsistent refs, etc.) but I'll leave it here.
Go Jets Go!
