Why A Point Mattered Last Night For Utah HC

Head coach Andre Tourigny said a point is another step in the building process for the Utah Hockey Club. Why does that matter?

Yes, the Utah Hockey Club blew another multi-goal lead.

Yes, they let another opportunity to make a statement slip away.

No, the sky is not beginning to fall again.

In fact, the team, contrary to what people are thinking, has exceeded expectations for the better part of the first month of the season.

The team has beaten the New York Rangers (currently second in the Metro Division) and the Boston Bruins (currently surging into a wild-card spot in the East), both at their own styles of play.

They've also let a 4-1 lead get away against the now-surging San Jose Sharks, and failed to protect a late 4-3 advantage at Anaheim.

Despite all the ups and downs, Utah sits in the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference after 12 games, and probably should be sitting in the top three in the Central Division.

So, why did a point matter last night against newly minted rival Vegas?

And why do the players and coaches still brood confidence heading into Tuesday's game at Winnipeg?

It's because they know the urgency they must play with in every game, and they know consistency will win them games throughout the season.

Utah was dominated for most of yesterday's loss at Vegas, but when they registered a goal on their first shot, you could feel the momentum shift in their direction.

The fact the team played nearly perfect for almost 65 minutes, committing only one penalty outside of coincidental majors for fighting, winning the face-off battle, and protecting the puck, and it wasn't enough, should show the fans how good they can be this season.

That's why a point is huge for Utah in such a hostile environment like Vegas, and it's why fans should feel confident about the team's chances heading into tomorrow night at Canada Life Centre.