Houston Hotdish: Are we there yet?

It seems like only yesterday, we were watching the Aeros operate with machine-like efficiency and a complete understanding of Mike Yeo's system as they battled for the Calder Cup. And with that memory fresh on our minds, what really sticks out are the new guys who don't have the system burned into their brains.

So, I spend a lot of time during Aeros games going, "Bahhh, what's that guy doing? Terrible decision-making!" and then realizing, "Oh right, he's a new guy."

The smooth operation we're used to is there in fits and starts, but the success of last season has me (and I'm sure many others) wondering when it's going to click for THIS group. And hoping it's not in January like it was last year.

Now that I've laid the groundwork for my perspective on the season thus far, let's look at what's happened in the first four games to get the Aeros to this 2-1-0-1 record they're currently sporting.

The Games: In spite of a seemingly endless parade to the penalty box, the Aeros won their first two games of the season, beating Chicago in the home opener and Texas (in Cedar Park) at the start of last weekend's 3-in-3.

The team was edged out by San Antonio in an 11 round shootout (only 3 goals between all 22 shooters) at home Saturday. Then got blanked in OKC after busing all night and playing at 4 p.m. Sunday.

Dangerous but extremely nifty spin-o-rama no-look pass from Kris Foucault as their line is streaking past the hash marks to Peters, who centered it to Ortmeyer for a one-timer in the low slot. It was breath-taking. And as a goalie, I sorta hate that stuff, but it was too pretty to hate.

However, like I said, all the new guys need a break. It takes time to commit the details of this system to muscle memory and to get your reactions not only correct and instinctive.

What's Coming: Regardless of a little duddery right now, everyone has shown glimpses of what's special about their game. Kris Foucault, for instance, has amazing hands. He's not the galloping power forward Gillies was on that Ortmeyer/Peters line, but adds some fearless finesse that will be fun to watch.

The Coach: Torchetti hinted that he's not 100% pleased with the commitment he's getting from all four lines, and as such, he can't roll all four evenly right now. He wasn't going to throw anyone under the bus, and I won't speculate, but it will be interesting to see how he deals with that in the coming weeks.

Two good practice days this week before the team flies to Charlotte for the Aeros first- ever meeting with the Checkers Friday and Saturday. I'll catch you up on that action same time next week!