The Emotions Of The Final Game

THE EMOTIONS OF THE FINAL GAME of the season can run from intense to lackadaisical—depending on what’s on the line. When the Detroit Red Wings visited the Colorado Avalanche to conclude the 2000 campaign, the results were surprising.

Fierce competition, continual action, and constant checking usually highlighted the encounters between the two perennial Stanley Cup contenders. But with a playoff spot clinched, Detroit benched most of its starters. The Avalanche, well rested from claiming a playoff spot early, elected to play the regulars at home.

The Red Wings’ halfhearted effort readily manifested itself. The players skated tentatively and exhibited little emotion or enthusiasm. Game officials never whistled either team for an infraction, the first NHL game without a penalty since the Montreal Canadiens visited the Buffalo Sabres on February 17, 1980—more than 20 years beforehand.

On defense, the difference in talent caused the Avalanche to dominate. Allowing the Red Wings only two shots compared to its own 15, Colorado jumped to a 2–0 lead on goals by Milan Hejduk and Serge Aubin. Detroit narrowed the gap to 2–1 on Brendan Shanahan’s 41st goal of the season, but backup goalie Ken Wregget allowed Alex Tanguay a third-period score. The Red Wings fell 3–2 as Stacy Roest netted a last-second goal.

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POINT Many thought the Red Wings were the better team because they won the Stanley Cup in 1997 and 1998. But they approached the ice with subdued intensity. To Coach Scotty Bowman, the battle made no difference. The Avalanche secured the victory because Coach Bob Hartley relied on his starting stars and the team played at home before fans that cared.

While God doesn’t care too much if you win or lose every game (sure, he wants you to do well), he does care very much that you gain victory over sin. And there’s only one way to do that: through Jesus Christ. Jesus gives you the victory over death just for believing in him. Jesus’ sacrifice helps you win the most important victory of all—even more important than a season finale.

GOAL! Watch a sporting event in which the outcome has no bearing on final season standings. Notice the players’ and coaches’ attitude. Praise God that his Son has already won the greatest battle in your life.