My own bout of Hockey Fever (or The Canes are Alright)

Just this past week, the Carolina Hurricanes’ run for Lord Stanley’s Cup came to a halting end as they were swept 4-0 to the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Eastern Finals.  Granted, the way this season panned out (in unusual fashion, I might add), I figured the Canes were lucky just to get in this year after being out the previous two.

We started the season okay, then struggled mightily in the middle, which resulted in a coaching change where the new coach was a former coach (even though it sounds like a classic song by The Who).  Towards the end of the season, the Canes really gained momentum and just shot themselves into the playoffs.  But what was most impressive was how competitive they were in their series with the Devils and Bruins.  It was the Penguins, however, who were the better team and showed it in their domineering style of play.  Sure, the Canes managed to carry themselves through on emotion and sheer determination, but sadly another trip to the Finals was not meant to be.  Instead, we have a repeat of last year.

Still, I can’t say that I’m terribly disappointed.  While I may not be a hardcore hockey fanatic like some of my buddies who attend the games at the RBC with regularity, at least I was able to get into this year now that I had a team to follow.   Normally, I’d lose interest in this sort of thing the moment I hear the Canes are eliminated.  But since we managed to get this far out, at least it wouldn’t be a bad idea to see how the Finals turn out for once.

And besides, I’d like to see the Pens get some retribution for what happened last year.  Or they can just get on their knees and pray that … well, you know.