While this team lost a little size to be sure, they are far from a small team. In fact, I was surprised to see they are still bigger than Chicago. That being said, a big, skilled forward is on every team's wish list. That's why Backes was going to get his big contract and teams would overpay for him. Not many of those guys available. Armstrong may pull something off but I'm not holding my breath...

I've been mostly impressed with how well these guys are playing as a team. Great puck support and very, very good two-way play. I think any player that isn't playing the whole 200' is going to find himself in the press box as a healthy scratch for the next game or two. In short, it looks like they're all bought in to Hitch's system. And I think that is critical to their success.

So far so good with the back-up netminder as well. Let's hope he's as good every time he is needed...

Go Blue!!