The B's are feeling good about themselves, and they have legitimate reasons for that. They managed to weather what some would have thought to be an apocalyptic combination of injuries to both Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak, keeping their heads just above the water line until their two stars returned last week. Now they're riding a four-game win streak that has put them firmly in the playoff hunt.
SAN JOSE The Sharks' success was once so constant, so reliable, so predictable, that they ran out of room to hang their accolades. With twenty playoff appearances in 24 years, the Sharks literally filled up an entire banner at their practice facility, top to bottom, with their postseason berths. It was such steady excellence that the team had to commission a new banner just to keep up.
Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff was on a mission to change the roster for the better. Last season left a bad taste in his mouth and he wanted to make changes. He re-signed two of his biggest players, center Gabe Vilardi (six-year deal) and defenseman Dylan Samberg (three-year deal). He then went out in free agency and added some depth but those players filled holes.
When you want it that bad, you start making plays to get it. You want to win the game every time you touch the puck.
Thompson's absence at the optional practice raised eyebrows, especially after the Caps recalled netminder Clay Stevenson, but coach Spencer Carbery assured there was "no concern for Thompson."
