Happy New Year

Another year has come and gone, and they seem to steam roll faster as you get older. I have made a point of not "wishing for the weekend" anymore because I realise those days behind you are spent. It's very similar to the NHL schedule when you think about it. Players can't wait for the long road trip to end, they can't wait for the Xmas break, or the Olympic break, always looking forward. The problem with parity (three point games) is that all those losses in November, December, and January are killer in March and April. 

 

If the Jets truly want to be in the playoff conversation, they need to go on a streak. The Western conference has softened slightly in the last 15 games with Minnesota, Colorado, Dallas, Phoenix, and Nashville (along with Winnipeg) have slowed down in the last ten. The rest of the conference excluding Alberta is kicking ass and taking names. Truthfully, there is one playoff spot up for grabs which the Coyotes currently own. They also happen to be 6 points clear of Winnipeg with three games in hand. Assuming three points in those games, they are at least 9 points in arrears.  

Tonight the Jets play Buffalo, a team in shambles. That being said they have a better record lately than the Jets and the changes made last month seem to have gotten the attention of the players. The Jets had better not take the Sabres lightly, even if they own the worst road record in the league. Buffalo cannot score, the Jets defend poorly...should make for an interesting game within a game. 

 

Things I'm thankful for this year. My family, my friends, my health. The Jets - even with no playoffs, we still get to watch, talk about, read about, write about, THE JETS. The off-season signings. There was no mass exodus, all of the players resigned. It was a big moment for the franchise. Even better, the players re-upped (for the most part) are delivering.  The Jets amateur scouts. Seriously, has any other department come close in the organization to matching the quality they deliver? I was on board with Mark Scheifle from the beginning. I thought Jacob Trouba was a reach, and I was certain Josh Morrissey was bad asset management. Obviously I was wrong and I will shut up next draft. Factor in Nic Petan, Adam Lowry, and Eric Comrie and it's very easy to smile about the future of this team. Lastly, Jets fans. I still get chills during the anthem. Being in the building is a magical experience. When I watch on TV, I can't get over how loud that building gets. Jets fans, you are the best. Please don't ever change. 

 

Happy New Year to all of you and best wishes!