Friday Notes

As the Americans gear up for a full weekend of hockey, it seems some good is coming from their week of practice:

"I think we are going through some adversity right now," said Reddick, who missed eight games with a concussion earlier this season. "We aren't scoring and we aren't playing to our ability. It's not time to press the panic button. It's time to reflect on the positive things, grit our teeth and make things happen."(herald)

Kruise goes on to talk about playing three games in as many days:

"It's nice when you are playing every three nights and keeping in game form," Reddick said, "but it's also nice to have this much practice time to work out the kinks. The fans might be concerned; they want to see us do well. We are going to turn this around."

That's exactly what you want to hear from a team captain. A guy willing to step up and say things aren't perfect right now. Acknowledging the fact that the fans are concerned but guaranteeing that it gets fixed. Smart guy.

I've talked about the struggles of Drew Owsley, and it seems like he's getting the help he needs:

"We are trying to keep things positive and relaxed," said Tri-City starting goalie Drew Owsley. "We have a good bunch of guys, we just need to execute better. The bounces aren't going our way and guys are gripping the sticks too tight. We just need that win to get us out of this."

Owsley sought help from one of the best in the business Wednesday, working with former NHL goalie and Americans owner Olie Kolzig.

"Any time Olie can come out and help me, I appreciate it," Owsley said. "He's been through it all and I'm struggling a bit. He's helped me tune things up a bit and he's given me some advice."

-Uhhhh yeah...anytime you can get advice from one of the best, you better take advantage. Drew's going to be just fine. He's a great goalie and has a great group of guys around him. Its way too early to start panicking. Looking forward to two home games this weekend. Should be a couple of good matchups. The guys are up north in Chilliwack to try and take care of a pesky Bruins team.




Not much time to write today, we're expecting someone to come pick up our couches, if they ever show up....