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If you’re not already, feel free to ignore about 1/3 of what I say. Somehow, Detroit put up 4 goals and a shootout win for a goaltender they normally score 1.5 for. I’d predicted a loss tonight, it was a win. I also, infamously, labeled Erne “Abdelkader 2.0” last year. I’m stuck on an “oops”. Cycle.
If, during the 90s, you were the younger brother to two strapping lads (6 ft 2 and 6ft 4 respectively) standing at an unimpressive 5’5” and plagued with acne, you probably read a lot of comic books. (You probably also cry when you think no one is looking, just a guess). Don’t feel too bad, I was able to shed my blemish riddled skin and hit 6’1” just in time to trick my now wife into thinking I was awesome. (Ish).
Well, in the 90s, Marvel did a lot of alternate reality bits. Comics called, “What If?” That featured an alternate time line. One had the Incredible Hulk killing Wolverine (and featured a metal skeleton on the cover, probably worth a good chunk now). I was more than skeptical of the series and thought it was a huge waste of time after reading one of them. Well, in the NHL Adam Erne has hit the “what if” button and in a full 82 game season would be on pace for 20 goals. His previous career high was 8.
A win is a win, of course. It’s fun to watch and then complain about in the post season when Detroit picks 6th overall at the draft. Somehow, Erne looks like a very different player. His shootout goal was a beautiful rip. His in game goal was nice and the result of busting his hind quarters. Lately, Erne has been a factor offensively and it’s nice to see.
Last year, Anthony Duclair caught fire and had the season of his life offensively. Athanasiou hit 30 a couple seasons ago. A look at both players will assure you that the high water mark may well be an anomaly. Whether it will be for Adam Erne or not, who can tell? In the meantime, he may have caught some attention as an inexpensive depth rental for contending teams.
The eye test tonight told me that Carolina is the better team. Their possessions looked stronger, their shots looked more dangerous, and their defensive structure and speed were a thing of beauty. This team has young guns that will be good for a long time. Unfortunately for them, Mrazek’s alter ego showed up tonight. The one that makes you shake your head after he can be lights out for several games. No offense to the ‘Canes, but they may want to buy some net insurance if they want a deep run.
Detroit has now tied up the season series 3-3 (one more win than I thought they’d get for the whole 8 game set). With both Carolina and Tampa Bay, we’re getting more output than I would have expected this year. We’ll see if it’s a trend that will carry over into next season for those clubs.
Now, it’s wait and watch. Teams have until 3:00PM to get their deals done. I have no idea how much more work Yzerman can manage on the phones. Keep an eye out for Monday’s morning skate to see if anyone is held out. If trades happen, I’ll post updates.
The big question now, will Gergeswillems finally buy an Adam Erne jersey? Only time will tell.
Detroit Red Wings Blogger • 
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