Canes close point gap by two

So, the Canes have managed to gain two points on eighth place in their last three games. Sound pretty bad, but it's actually good considering that means other teams had to lose in the process.

On last Friday, the Canes played Tampa and broke their home losing streak by winning 4-1. Really, they should have had more goals as they had numerous breakaways and opportunities (Ray Whitney can't hit a net if his life depended on it, it seems). Not to mention they outshot the Lightning by 28.

Although, my personal highlight was Tim Conboy's fight against Steve Downie. Not really good, but I love the wild haymaker at the end to bring them both down to the ice.

Next was the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday. Matt Cullen got his first career hat trick in the 5-2 win. And... I can't remember anything about that game. Oh well.

Then, last night, the Canes lost to the Senators 4-2, breaking their streak of beating teams they're supposed to beat and winning on the road. This game was not fun to watch, primarily because Cam Ward looked absolutely horrible for a good portion of the first period, and the third Ottawa goal just kind of ruined the night for me.

Yesterday was also the first day on the job for new Rangers coach, John Tortorella. For the good of the rest of the Eastern Conference, he really should just throw in the towel and let the Rangers continue on this slump they're in.

Today the Canes assigned Brandon Sutter to Albany for a conditioning stint. It's a shame because I liked him, but it will probably do him good to actually play in the games, rather than sit on the bench during them.

And, it looks like the current lineup is the one we'll have for the rest of the season. Rutherford essentially says here not to expect any sort of movement from the Canes.

Tomorrow the Canes play Buffalo. A pretty important game, both for fan pride, and for the fact that the Canes are only one point behind Buffalo in the playoff standings. Hopefully the Canes won't crap out like they did the last time they were in this situation.

Chad LaRose stats (Sunday): 2 assists
On the season: 13 goals, 8 assists