In spite of the many challenges faced during the 2011-12 season, the Florida Everblades characteristically remain competitive in the ECHL's Eastern Conference.
Embarking on a sluggish initial two months of the current campaign, the Blades employed a successful December to power themselves into the thick of the future playoff race. In fact, by winning the last 6 games played during the previous month, Florida slingshot from last place in the South Division into serving as its leader, as champagne popped on a new year.
However, 2012 has not been as kind to the Everblades thus far. Last weekend, the team dropped both contests of a weekend visit to oppose the Gwinnett Gladiators. Losing the first in a shootout, only 1 point was captured against the rival, which now sits atop the division.
Like any ECHL team, the Blades have experienced considerable turnover in their roster, as the season's mid-point approaches. In addition to key injuries, such as the losses of forwards Alex Hutchings and Luc Tardif, the squad has seen much of its top talent depart to serve the needs of affiliated franchises.
The latest blow comes as second-year forward Matt Beca has been summoned by the Charlotte Checkers. Beca has played in 31 of Florida's 35 games and contributed critically with 10 goals and 28 total points.
Keys to the team bouncing back from last weekend's defeats include strong play from primary goal-tender Pat Nagle and first-year center David Rutherford again finding the back of the net.
Already tallying 12 goals on the season, the 24 year-old Rutherford has proven to be one of the stellar additions by General Manager Craig Brush. Without Beca, the Blades will certainly rely on the British Columbia native to burst out of a recent slump and excite Germain Arena crowds.
The Everblades now welcome the Chicago Express for a 3 game series in Estero, beginning with the puck dropping at 7:30pm for a Wednesday night game on January 11th. This will be the new ECHL franchise's first regular season visit to Florida and $2 beers and $2 hot dogs will merrily mark the occasion.
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