ROCKIES GET ROLLED IN WINNIPEG
Steve Yzerman did everything in his power to keep the Rockies from being completely embarrassed in Winnipeg last night. Colorado went to battle the Jets with high stakes. Colorado was looking to make up one of the two games Winnipeg held in hand over them. The Rockies had a one point advantage in the standings but not enough to cover the difference. This game has huge implications on the standings.
The two teams traded punches in the 1st, each of them throwing double digit pucks on net. Kirk Muller was the only player to score, doing so twice, in the first 20 minutes. A questionable Joe Reekie spearing penalty allowed Muller to pit the 2nd while on the man advantage.
Winnipeg would score only a few seconds after Reekie stepped out of the box in the 2nd frame with a goal from Al MacInnis. Dave Ellett would score his 22nd and push the Jets’ lead to 4-0. Yzerman’s first of the game showed a bit of fight with the visiting club but Jari Kurri restored the 4-goal lead just minutes later.
Colorado might try to take some solace as they “won” the 3rd period with Yzerman adding two more compared to the Jets lone marker. The game was sealed after two if we are being honest.
GM Mike Smith said, “We went 2-2 against these guys this year but damn after this game it sure doesn’t feel like it. We played our best roster at full strength and were outgunned all over the ice. It sure does leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth”.
Strong words from the manager. It begs the question as to whether Colorado will add as the trade deadline is right around the corner. It wasn’t quite the Rockies best lineup as likely Vezina winner Kelly Hrudey played supporting role to Bob Froese. Head Coach Andre Savard said, “I think our manager has his own opinion and is free to share. I thought the guys were ready and I’m happy with their effort for most of the game. We got caught with our pants down a couple times. Winnipeg are the champs. They showed how they can effectively dismantle our forecheck and pressure. Their speed was the difference maker tonight. They are able to skate themselves out of trouble often”.
When asked about the decision to start Froese, Savard relied, “He’s played well since coming over. I wanted to give him a taste of the rivalry here. Bobby’s been around a long time but he hasn’t experienced what we do in games like this. Having him get the in-game feel, and in this barn, is invaluable experience for when the results actually matter”.
Colorado will continue their road trip, leaving for Quebec. Hrudey is expected to be back in net tonight. |