~S~ - there may have been some mistakes by the Pens, but they ate our lunch and left no crumbs in the bag. If they repeat that performance trick on Saturday then - wings will be eaten for supper during game six next week.

My boys have lost the ability to score on the power-play; and, God, please tell me what the hell they are doing on the penalty kill? I simply do not know what it is they are doing. All they do is stand around while the Pens swarm and shoot until they score. I cannot accept that this talented team cannot devise a penalty kill policy that works! I'm sorry, but from now on, when the Wings get a penalty called on them, I submit that it would make the game more interesting if they just gave a goal to Pittsburgh and let them continue play, because that's what it has turned into - a goal for the Pens.

Personally, unless he's really hyped up, I don't think Dats coming back will make much difference; I mean, he's been out for many days now, he's probably not at 100%, and he'll probably be out of sync with everyone for at least the first game - and that's the game we'll need him for. If my guys don't win tomorrow - it's over.

I kinda feel like Datsyuk, myself, cause if I could cancel this gig tomorrow, I surely would; there are just some things that take precedent, and Red Wings Stanley Cup Finals hockey is one of those things. My wonderful Kelly will be relaying messages to me at the end of each period and whenever anyone scores.

Friends, if you liked last night's game then hang on because there's another one lined up for tomorrow night; and then, at least one or two more. I hope ~S~ and I have fingernails and guitar callouses left after these next few days. Ah, well, don't cha just love it!
GO RED WINGS!.....................mwh