The hockey season is so close I can practically taste it. I'm unbearably excited for a new season despite the lack of change on the roster from last season. Here are a few things that I think will be interesting to see play out over the season:
The Return of Lubomir Visnovsky: I was really impressed with Lubo last season before his injury. I'm hoping that he can come back and continue to dominate like he was last season. I missed his breakout passes at the end of last season, and I'm pretty sure Ales Hemsky missed them too. Looking forward to seeing #71 back on the ice.
Is Penner The Player I Think He Is?: I have a lot of faith in Penner. It's a bit strange because there isn't much to go on as far as fuel for my belief, but I've always had a feeling that this guy was something more than what most seem to think he is. I've seen glimpses, and I'm hoping that Quinn will be a good motivator to get the player I think Penner is out of the player that Penner has been.
Will Ales Hemsky Step Up?: For several seasons past the question has always been, 'will Hemsky break out this year?' I don't think that's the question to ask this season. Phrase it a little different and I think the question that more accurately portrays what we're looking for from Hemsky is whether or not he will step up. This team is his for the taking, but if he doesn't grab it soon; Gagner isn't too far behind.
Will the Kids Start Out Right?: It seems like the kids; Gagner in particular, have an issue with starting the season off on the same foot that they left the last one on. Now, granted, the sample size for such an assumption is a small one, but if the Oilers are hoping to be successful with the same roster they had last year then the kids need to start the season right.
Will the Powerplay be Resurrected?: New personnel behind the bench will hopefully take the ugly system that we iced last year on the man advantage. Lack of diversity on our attack was almost sad to watch last year, and hopefully we won't be watching what will seem like reruns of last season.
There are others to think about, and I'll post my thoughts more as the season nears. One thing is for sure: I can hardly wait until the first preseason game this coming Tuesday.
P.S.: Nice job Esks. Way to blow your lead in the last minute of play.
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See you later
11 months ago
