Reigning champs still winless

Wednesday night, the Canes dropped a 6-3 decision to the Panthers, and remain winless on the season. I only watched the closing minutes of the game and didn't get to watch the DVR, so I can't give glorious details.

While a couple of disappointing trends continued, two were ended. In the loss, the Canes were actually well disciplined for the first time all season. They only committed four penalties. The also got their power play rolling. In eight chances, the Canes scored once on the man advantage. Previously, the Canes had netted two power play goals, but they both came on 5-on-3 segments. One for eights is still not as efficient as we would like, but we've gotta take baby steps.

On the other side, the Canes surrendered one power play goal, late in the game when it didn't matter. They also gave up a short handed goal. I haven't seen the tape yet, but these are usually the result of sloppy neutral ice play. This has been something the Canes have been bad about so far this season.

The goal scorers for the Canes were Eric Belanger, Scott Walker and Andrew Hutchinson. Belanger and Walker also each had an assist. The "new guy" line of Trevor Letowski, Belanger and Walker has been the most productive so far. Walker and Belanger are tied for tops on the team with an embarrassing THREE points.

John Grahame and his terrible helmet were in net for the first time.

Next up for the Canes on their two week road trip will be the Thrashers on Friday night.