Go West Young Man

Horace Greeley made this phrase popular back in the 1800's to spark the adventurous spirit in American pioneers. It was said to be an inspiration -- and boy do the Isles need inspiration as they attempt to put the brakes on their 7-game losing streak. The losing streak itself is bad enough, but when it is accompanied with uninspired play it can result in dire consequences. The rumblings about Scott Gordon's job security are already starting.

While the rumor mill starts to churn, the Isles are heading west for a 3-game, five day trip to play the Anaheim Ducks, San Jose Sharks, and LA Kings. West coast trips are usually a test of a team's mettle and it can also provide an opportunity for a team that is struggling to bond and to get away from the media scrutiny that accompanies home games. Maybe a few days away from the NY microscope will give the team an opportunity to break out of its slump.

While the Ducks and Sharks are only playing .500 hockey, the Kings will offer a real test since they are leading the Pacific Division with 20 points and have given up the third fewest goals in the NHL. The Sharks are 4th in the league in goals against. So they will be facing two very stingy teams -- those are not great match-ups considering the Isles offensive woes.

As I've mentioned before, the Isles need to step-up their power-play production and some of the guys they are counting on (Weight, Bailey, Comeau, Hunter & Neilsen) need to increase their goal production if the Isles are ever going to be able to compete.

Last - I don't think it makes sense to get rid of Scott Gordon at this point. It is still early in the season and remember, he is working with a team with average talent at best. Some of these guys have the ability to be better than average - but most of the guys on this team would be 3rd and 4th liners on any other team.

So - "Go West Young Men" and try to climb your way back into respectability one game at a time.