They blitzed thru the NHL schedule, winning 62 games, losing just 13, and amassing 131 points. They lost only two home games all season. In doing all this, they also set the league record for most regular season wins in one season. Their coach was the same as the team whose record they beat -- Scotty Bowman.
Yet there was always something about the 1995-96 Red Wings that I didn't trust. Couldn't put my finger on it. Maybe it was the netminding. Maybe too much finesse, too much pizazz to be a playoff-ready team. Something.
Sure enough, the playoffs exposed the Red Wings, as they went 10-9 in the postseason and lost in the conference finals to Colorado. Much of the reason why was, actually, goaltending and too much finesse.
This year's team is on pace to threaten 60 wins. They have 29 in 40 games. Win tonight, and they'll be right smack on that 60-win pace. Yet I don't feel that this club will disappoint in the playoffs.
Perhaps it's the fact that the Wings went to the Final Four last season with a team that I believe isn't as strong as this one -- when it's healthy. Regardless, this year's squad has some makings. It looks like it's a Cup favorite. And I'm not even Barry Melrose, who picks them every year.
The Red Wings are fueled for hockey in June. There are hardly any weaknesses. Their backup goalie should make the All-Star team.
No 1996 disappointment here, me thinks.
1 comment:
The Wings look strong this year, especially because of their great amount of goaltending depth. I can't imagine them actually losing a series in the playoffs. Something really bad would have to occur for such an event to transcend.
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