I'm not even going to say anything about Demitra. He's not in the same class as Sundin is. But Mats only has 2 assists in his last 5 games. While we can cut the RPM line some slack because of their recent success, I think it's fair to say that Sundin needs to be better at this point. Prior to his past 5 games, Sundin had 7 points in 3 games. Those were good times, as the RPM line became famous in Canuckville.
But if you look at Sundin's stats per game from last year he is slumping in comparison. He went pointless in consecutive games only 4 times last year.
That's damned impressive, actually.
I saw Ottawa's checking line cover the RPM line tonight, which gave the Sedins and Burrows more room to play. While that is a good thing overall, as that line kicked Ottawa's ass, the RPM line needs to be better. Ryan Kesler was all over the ice while Sundin and Demitra seemingly floated. I want to see more effort from those two, especially Sundin, who is making the big bucks. I know I'm being a little harsh.
Don't get me wrong, I'm loving the Canucks' success right now. But to sustain that kind of success the RPM line must produce a little more consistently.
So, 5 points up on 9th spot? Woo!
Just press play and celebrate these good times!