Quick hits from around the NHL as October is winding down. Please excuse one of us for not writing as much lately since he is enamored with the Giants being in the World Series. Anyway, here are some observations and things we have learned thus far in what has been an entertaining start to the season.
- The NY Rangers have been playing better, even without Marian Gaborik and Chris Drury in the lineup. NY has won three in a row and are getting production from Brandon Dubinsky, who has posted seven points in seven games this season.
- The team with the most wins so far are the Los Angeles Kings with six. The Kings have played three games without the injured Drew Doughty and have gone 2-1 in that span. Even though the Kings put him on IR he should be good to go for Saturday's home game against New Jersey.
- No team in the league takes more penalties than the Anaheim Ducks. With their struggling defense, it's not a good recipe to have, especially on the road where the Ducks are a league worst 1-5.
- Carolina will finally play a home game on Wednesday night after playing their first seven games on the road in three countries. The fact that they went 4-3 in that stretch is impressive. Really amazed by the way rookie Jeff Skinner has looked thus far.
- The Florida Panthers have given up a league low 12 goals. Go figure!
- Two teams that are a must watch anytime they are on NHL Center Ice are the Colorado Avalanche and Edmonton Oilers. So much young talent, and both teams play an entertaining up-tempo game.
- The constantly over-looked Nashville Predators have yet to lose in regulation. When will people realize that Barry Trotz is a genius?
- Speaking of geniuses, everyone feel in love with Steve Yzerman's trade for Simon Gagne this summer. Gagne has yet to register a point through 8 games. That being said, Tampa is much better than last season. Guy Boucher looks like the real deal behind the bench.
- Would anyone want Colin Campbell's job right now? With all the attention surrounding hits to the head, he seems to be in a no-win situation. Clearly, this is the story of the season thus far, and obviously the referees have to make these calls even if they are borderline. Last night it was Dustin Brown who delivered a hit that was borderline. Was it worthy of a suspension? I'm not sure, but it really appears like we are splitting hairs as to what deserves a suspension and what doesn't. This is leading to constant second-guessing of any decision Campbell makes.
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