Win or go home...

So far Portland is 2-0 in a win or go home game... tonight is number 3. This is also the first one on home ice, so everything should be in Portland's favor... But is it? Portland has an outstanding road record in this years playoffs. Many would not believe it if we didn't live it... 6-1. Now Portland has to get it going with a road win tonight to setup a game 7, also at home.

The last time Portland played at home, the teams combined for 26 goals in two games... Then Portland put on the road warrior attitude and took two out of three close games in Vancouver, before returning home. Home should be an advantage, and Portland can make it that way tonight, and tomorrow...

First, just play guys.. quit thinking about what to do, and just do it. You had 72 regular season games to prepare for the playoffs, now just go play. With out a win there is no tomorrow.

Second, play Hawkey, not Vancouver's game. Portland shouldn't try and go toe to toe with the Giants, just play a puck control game, and limit your risks. The last time we saw the Hawks on home ice, they got beat on up ice rushes time and time again. If Portland controls the puck, generates quality scoring chances, then they don't get into a 8 to 10 goals against game. Limit the Giants scoring chances...

Third, use the fore check. Portland generates turnovers on the fore check, so use it at home, just like the road.

Finally, have some fun out there... I know this is a transition time of many players lives, between playing the game because you love it and moving on to making a living. These guys gotta remember to have fun... and winning is really fun, so go get it down.

Game 7 tomorrow... see you all at the rink then, right?