By Patrick MooreTQS Writer
Before the season even started, the Saint John Sea Dogs knew a Memorial Cup repeat was going to be a tough road to travel.
No one knew the feeling more than Stanislav Galiev. The Washington Capitals pick returned for the Sea Dogs 5-0 win against the P.E.I. Rocket after missing 48 games with a broken wrist.
It was tough for him, knowing that he wasn't able to help his teammates on the ice.
"It's tough to watch the games when you're sitting in the stands."
A lot of credit does lie with the rest of the Sea Dogs.
"I told the players to just go out and play their best, " said head coach Gerard Gallant.
With 12 games left in the season, the Sea Dogs haven't had a game with their full roster.
Sea Dogs captain Jonathan Huberdeau is happy to have the team back with some games left in the season.
"It's good, it gives us a chance to work on our team chemistry which will help us in the playoffs."
He admits there is a lot of pressure on the team this year because they are looking to repeat as Memorial Cup champions.
"Even though we won it last year, it's important not think about it. It's a new year and a new team."
Galiev did what he could while he was injured,
"I didn't go on any road trips, because I had to work out and stay in shape, but I would support the guys during home games."
Gallant expects the Sea Dogs to be much better now that everyone is back.
"I expect us to compete every game."
He isn't worried about who they end up playing in the first round of the playoffs.
"It doesn't matter if we play the Rocket, Cape Breton or Rouyn-Noranada. We are going to play our game."
Gallant said that a series against P.E.I. or Cape Breton would be ideal because the travel would be cut down by a lot. They would probably have to take a plane to Rouyn-Noranda.
*Patrick is currently enrolled in the Journalism program at Holland College.
