It's definitely the lineup flux, the part that has to do with injuries and other parts. I hate to bring up the whole "if you watch other teams" crap because it sounds so damn smug, but here goes. If you do watch other teams whose lineups have been basically unchanged for the last 20-30 games, you see that their game is more fluid throughout all their lines.

I also think frustration is a growing part of the problem. You could sure as hell see Zetterberg frustrated in the 3rd period against the Kings. We've seen it out of Datsyuk probably two dozen times this year. The tight schedule makes it even more mentally taxing and harder to clear that frustration.

My worry that is slowly growing is that the main problem with the team is their focus. All the effort they can muster isn't going to help it it's not focused right. There was a time when you could more clearly see the cosmos through a $120 store-bought telescope than you could through the Hubble; that problem was focus as well. The part that worries me is that focus is a job that falls to a team's leadership; the coach and the players wearing letters. I don't think I'm on the fire Babcock and/or shake up the roster significantly bandwagon yet nor do I plan to be this season, but the last few weeks has brought the Wings closer to desparation.

Man, I can't wait for the Olympic break…

I don't know if it's as simple as just the injuries as the constant flux of the lineup. Just when they start to look good, either someone else gets hurt and they have to adjust for that, or they get someone back who isn't at full speed or strength yet and they have to adjust to that.

I don't think this team has been comfortable, really comfortable, with the group of players on the ice at one time for more than a handful of games, and the constant changes probably have them all feeling a little burnt out.

Disch, Word. Word.

Kron, I would NEVER hate on Sparkle Motion. No-no-no-NOTORIOUS!

JJ, I'm not sure I'm questioning heart (and I sincerely don't want to miss your birthday party), but something's certainly not there — is it still okay to blame the injuries? I'm not sure. They're definitely less committed to sixty minutes than in years past…

Also, I'm taking a list of everybody I see online questioning this team's heart (note: this does not apply to questioning their commitment, as I'm ok with that). Those people will not be welcome to my birthday party.

Hey, now. I am beginning to question your commitment to Sparkle Motion!