Samuelsson deserves some credit for setting up Kronvall to take the shot that led to Flip’s rebound goal. Sammy did a great job bringing the puck in and playing keep-away with the defender.

Here’s hoping you come back non-burnt out with the coming of the new year!

Filppula: That’s what a dose of confidence will do for you. I know how it feels since I went through similar phases. The best thing about Filppula emerging (if he keeps it up) is that Zetterberg and Datsyuk can be split up now without causing any worry.

Rafalski: I didn’t watch the game; only the replays. And I almost did a double take when I saw that giveaway. I would love to be able to just say, “Well it was a mistake. He doesn’t do it much and it was probably a once in season thing.” Instead, sadly, I’ve seen him commit some uncharacteristic giveaways more times than I would like to see from someone of Rafalski’s caliber this season. I don’t think it’s going to be a problem, but let’s hope there are no more come playoff time.

Too many missed penalties sucks as much as too many weak calls, but ultimately if I had to choose I’d take a game with fewer penalties. Just better to watch when there isn’t a game stoppage and a powerplay every two minutes.

A win over the Avs feels doubly good for me since I have a friend who is an Avs fan. I forgot to rub this win in his face earlier today. I shall do so later tonight.