:::SIGH:::

First a note: Most of you seemed to figure out the NHL.com fantasy link but if for some reason you can't figure out where to go, I can send you an official invite to the Top Shelf group that makes things a little easier. When I was signed in, the link included in the previous post took me directly to the group's main page but it evidently doesn't do that if you're not already registered. So if you're interested but having troubles, drop me a comment or email!

Also, be aware that your full name will be visible to other owners. There's probably a way around that but I haven't really played with it yet. If you'd prefer we all not know who you really are, feel free to register with a fake name. Others have done it and it worked just fine. I should have mentioned that before but I didn't realize it did that. Sorry. You can edit your info to change your name if you like.

Geez, these guys can't even slink off into that good night without torturing us, can they?

Okay, I'll concede that Henrik Tallinder has been not good the past few games. He had a horrible giveaway in overtime last night and a couple of rough giveaways tonight. And while Ryan Miller was way out of position on the one goal, Hank also should have been playing the guy tighter than he was. But the one thing I do really hate about being a huge fan of a defensive defenseman is that those guys hardly ever get credit when they're playing well and doing all the things they're supposed to be doing because with the exception of the occasional super awesome play, they're not noticeable then. But when they screw up, look out, the hate and spittle fly. So consider this a friendly reminder that one month ago, Hank and Toni were one and nine on a list of the top defensive d-men in the NHL when considering quality of competition, goals against on at even strength, and goals against on while 4-on-5. And that's while playing on an inconsistent team in front of an inconsistent goaltender.

Have they been bad the past few games? Yes, they sure have. The top pairing needs to be better in games as important as these are. Should they be shot, assaulted, retired, traded or cut? Gimme a break. Let's see what the defense looks like then. And let's also please note that neither of them will throw their teammates under the bus without taking any blame on themselves. (I realize this is kind of irrational and defensive especially after complaining that Ryan Miller has to stand up in important games but I don't care :P This is what I'm reduced to.)

See? Hank knows he's been bad lately.

Have I mentioned that I really, really like Mike Weber? Because I do.