I think that realization was why I was so disappointed and frustrated yesterday. When the season started there was no question of fighting for a playoff spot remember? We were supposed to take a huge step forward. Now it’s really looking like a fight for the playoffs….again. What is it going to take to have a team that can at least consistently play above .500 ? We look around, there’s the Soo, North Bay, Barrie and on and on. These and other franchises might have their down years but are consistently able to recover and be successful more often than not. Bill that you are resigned to the fact that a championship is unlikely is really unfortunate as it sounds like you’ve been following the team closely for as many years as I have. Why should that be out of reach for us? One thing I believe about Zulich is that he is committed to do what it takes to strive for a championship so why not us?
It all starts at the top right? We obviously need the right people and players in place. Well now we have a coach with an NHL pedigree, we’ve had several high picks (including no less than 3 first overall), what else is it going to take? To me Papineau is the one who should be on the line now if this core he put together goes bust. Some of his moves and picks have been outright fails. The Holmes/Boudreau deal is already looking like a fail. He’s had a hell of a time getting imports to report while the teams with consistent success have not and considering the key role imports play that’s another reason they’ve been successful. How long are we going to play less one OA? If this season continues to spiral its on him, it’s his team.
I know it can be negative and critical on here and sometimes I’m as guilty as the rest but it stems from loving hockey and our Wolves.
I’m fiercely loyal and wouldn’t dare let any any outsider criticize them or talk smack and I’d be the first to stand up but the frustration stems from a desperate desire for some measure of success amidst so much mediocrity and disappointment.
For some of you newer to the Wolves and the forum it’s worth knowing that as Bill mentioned many of us have been staunch supporters of the team for decades and have had way more than our share of mediocrity and heartbreak. Here’s hoping for a turnaround. Several home games coming up.