It certainly was a big difference the last 48 hours. We were a little worried that with our schedule the boys would be a little empty in the gas tank, but they found some saved-up energy. But that's why we believe we're one of the best-conditioned teams. I think it pays off in games like tonight.

We had some gutsy performances from our penalty killers, and usually when you kill, the goalie is your best killer. He was certainly outstanding, first to get us a point and then to get us the extra one.

It was a tough night for Al, but it's hard for a goalie if he makes a mistake, compared to a defenseman or forward. His play hasn't been up to the level before his injuries [in a 5-4 loss to Portland Jan. 14], but he has strong character, so he'll shake it off.

Sometimes, you can work so hard and not get a point out of it, but things are going our way right now. We had a few games we put 50 shots up, and we didn't get one point.

They had a lot of good plays, first and second efforts and puck control. They did a lot of good things you expect from a top checking line.

We looked a little rusty [after four days off], but obviously we woke up and showed much better effort. Sometimes you look for things to inspire the team, and Shooter's goal did it. ... When Dale scored and Dewey got the hat trick, you could really feel the chemistry. They're a tight-knit group right now.