Snatching defeat from the jaws of victory

Erik Cole had a goal and an assist tonight in the 6-4 loss against the Thrashers. To me, his play is the bright ray of sunshine that got covered up by the dark clouds that was letting 5 goals against in the third period.

I don't think I've ever seen a team implode before my eyes like the Canes did tonight.

Because, really, things were flying high for the Canes. They looked excellent in the first and second periods, storming the net, having good chances. Matt Cullen missed a wide open net in the second, and there were several other times that Canes players were inches away from scoring another goal.

Then came the third period, which started off with two absolutely dreadful powerplays. After those the momentum quickly swung Atlanta's way and the Canes let in their trademark of rapid goals against.

Let me just say that this game killed whatever optimism I had for this team. I thought that, if the Canes continued to improve, they might not be so bad after all. But then this game - I just can't believe how the Canes appeared to firing on all cylinders and then just suddenly lost it. It was like someone flipped a switch in the dressing room and everything that was going good just turned off. How can you be optimistic that your team will turn it around when they can't even finish off a game with a three goal lead?

Next game is tomorrow against the Sabres. On the road, so you can pretty much chalk up another loss, if their current record holds.

Erik Cole stats: 1 goal, 1 assist
On the season: 3 goals, 2 assists