Gameday, Panthers vs. Oilers, 1-2 (Shootout)

José was the first one off the ice after morning skate, so it's assumed he will start. But you never know with Dineen.

Yesterday Coach was interviewed on NHL Live, and when asked about José this is what he said:

"I tell you what’s really impressed me about José is his preparation, the way he comes to the rink on off days. And in morning skates…I have to get him off the ice. He’s out there, he works on very specific drills. And last night I was impressed with how he really competed on every puck, and right to the end of the game, and really gave us a chance to win. Goaltending has been a real strength for us this year."

And don't even get me started on why GR has been calling José Uncle Theo (it really annoys me.) I guess Goldie (Steve Goldstein of Fox Sports Florida) started it, and he said it's a take on the Uncle Leo character on Seinfeld. Makes no sense to me, other than it rhymes, but whatever.

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The game is scoreless after one period. José has only faced 5 shots, but a couple of those were really sharp saves. The Panthers have 9 shots, but nothing going in. A bit sloppy on their part actually. Hopefully they'll tighten up and drive the net next period.

After two the game is still tied, this time at 1. The goal scored against José was on a breakaway after a bad play down at the other end. He's had some nice saves that kept them at 1 though.

He saved 8 of 9 shots that period.

Ugh, another shootout!! This time the Panthers couldn't score in the shootout at all! José stopped the first 3 shooters, but the 4th got it past him. Disappointing for him, I'm sure, but it was a point, and the Capitals only got one point in their game, so the Panthers are still 4 up on the Caps.

José saved all 10 shots in the 3rd and 2 in OT. So he ended up with 20 saves on 21 shots. Then 3 of 4 in the shootout. Back at 'em Sunday against the Islanders.

And here was a very nice exchange on twitter about José, begun by his friend and former teammate, Gui Latendresse with Mike Russo chiming in as well.