AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > October > 18
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Top line clicks in much-needed victory
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Saturday night was a good one for Todd White, Bryan Little and Ilya Kovalchuk, who are looking more and more like a line that ought to stick together for awhile. White made good passes that led to goals for both of his linemates, and these guys created several other chances, too, in a 3-2 shootout victory over Buffalo.
Kovalchuk not only scored on a breakaway and in the shootout but also made a good play backchecking against Daniel Paille in the third period with the Thrashers still clinging to a 2-1 lead.
Want a couple of downers?
1) This team still can’t maintain its first-period intensity. “I thought the last 40 minutes, we carries most of the play,” Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said, accurately.
2) The 0-for streak on the power play has reached 21.
No. 1 is far more serious. No. 2 looks a bit like bad luck after a night in which the power play generated some solid chances.
Want some reasons to feel good about the home team?
1) Bryan Little. He told me thought he whiffed on the shot he scored on tonight. Maybe that’s just a sign of a guy who can do no wrong at the moment. He sure gives this team a spark.
2) Kari Lehtonen, who has covered up more than his share of defensive breakdowns. The save percentage (91.9) isn’t the best gauge of his effectiveness. Look at the quality of the chances he has faced.
3) Ron Hainsey.
