Let's be honest, there has not been a lot to cheer about when it comes to the Erie Otters season in '07-'08. The chances are slim to none that they will make the playoffs. Perhaps this very young team, with no overage players on the roster, was a bit overrated to start the season with high expectations, and next year, the core of this team returns with some good and experienced talent. So, is next season the season they turn it around ???? I like their chances next season IF...and it's a big IF...they can learn how to win in the last two months of this season.
If you follow sports, you know the key for any great team, was when they learned how to win games, learned how to overcome adversity, learned how to find a way to come out on top. This group of Otters have yet to find that niche and if they don't to some degree before the end of this season, they could be in the same position next season. Talent can only take you so far in sports, you have to learn how to win as a group, whether it comes from the coach, the captains or whoever, there is a point where it has to start to click. It has clicked a few times this season, like when they beat Kitchener at home in early January, but they promptly turned around and lost the next three games. The true test of any team that is "over the hump" is when you learn to win road games and the Otters haven't come close to accomplishing that.
I think in one of these remaining games, before this season is over, the Otters will win a significant game with a great comeback or total domination, and we'll look back next season and say...Yes, that was the game that turned things around. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.