This team really wants to win and those that questioned that don't understand that, as athletes, they don't compete for any other reason. Sure, they get paid millions but they'd like play for free.
The core here is solid and players who have the ability to take this to another level. The supporting cast in place hasn't always been sufficient and we're putting some good pieces in place. Also, Tocchet is making a difference. Loved Bruce and he was right at the time for where the team was, but this is now a matter of pushing forward.
They deserve some momentum and the confidence that goes with that. It must've been so deflating when they weren't getting the results they wanted and, at times, deserved.
It's all about keeping it in check though...one lesson is that "a" convincing win doesn't mean you've done something special. Each game is a fresh slate and you have to prove yourself in on ongoing basis. They're learning how to do that...to be ready for the next game after a good win. The losses after the wins were an important part of it...to remind them they couldn't coast or rest on a couple of wins. It slips away if you do that and I believe they get that part.
It's so nice to not be in a big hole in October though...this team's for real. As much as we've relied on Demko for wins, they're now helping him get the wins.