First of all, if you were wondering what the cloud of smoke was in the arena last night, unconfirmed reports are that Isles GM Mike Milbury chain smokes Camels. How he keeps a camel lit is another story...

Although I have heard hockey is just a game, I believe it is just a game when you win. If you lose it is a colossal waste of time! That said, I'll try to focus on the positives. Sure we looked slow and were caught out of position on two goals and our big oaf of a free agent blueliner (Todd Rierden) screened the goalie on another, BUT (even though he was dressed like he got his equipment from a rummage sale) Osgood played very well in goal for the fishermen. Also, due to four injuries, one suspention, and the funeral of Maine head coach Shawn Wash we were short Ray, Adam Burt, Hordi, Yanni, Odgie, and Corky! If we can get/stay healthy, we will be a competitive team this year.

Speaking of Jeff Odgers, who served the final game of his suspention for an elbow in the Nashville game, I saw him and his son walking the concorse during the first intermission. Amazing enough, his son young son Dakota looks just like him, right down to the fu-manchu and the breath-rite strip.