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ADVERSITY CREATES OPPORTUNITY
Denver
It was as much as a must-win Game 2 for Colorado as can be. Manhandled on home ice in the opening game of Round 2 against what has now become their biggest rivals. The Rockies could not expect a series win against a powerhouse club from Vancouver if they dropped the first two at home. Vezina trophy favourite, Kelly Hrudey, would be in the press box again but this time not by management’s choice.
The superstar goalie missed Game 2 (and likely 3) after sustaining an injury to his elbow. A misfortune turn of events for Hrudey and the Rockies but an opportunity for Bob Froese to step up and show the entire NFHL what he’s got.
A trade between the Oilers and Rockies brought Froese in as an insurance policy. This is exactly the reason it happened. It’s just another example of a GM doing the most he can for his franchise. Froese took full advantage and backstopped Colorado to a 6-3 victory after stopping 23 of 26 Canucks shots. After the game Froese said, “We never want to see our number one guy go down to injury. Do I want to play? No question. But it’s Kelly’s net. I have a job to do and I’ll do everything I can to keep this ball rolling until he can get back. I’m excited to contribute. This could be my last kick at the can”. The victory wasn’t without more bad news. Brett Hull and Tony Tanti both went down with injuries and had to leave the game. Tanti, too, has an injured elbow and is out Day-to-Day. Hull will miss Game 3 and is questionable for Game 4. Both will travel with the team to Vancouver. Now the question becomes who gets this next opportunity to contribute to what could be an epic series. |