It sort of validated what we've been trying to do for a long time. And hopefully it allows us to turn the corner and take the next step. That next step being making the playoffs consistently and being a threat for the Stanley Cup every year.
It was a bang-bang type of thing. We did a good job when we went down 2-0 with Walker's goal. We hung our heads a little bit when they scored their next three goals.
I just said to the guys, 'When certain things end you've got to get back on the horse and start all over again. That's over with, that's a nice chapter. Let's do something now through the next 73 games. The next 73 games are as important as the first nine.
His game shot up to a higher level. He started slowly, but he built up until he got hurt. I'm hoping he can start the year like he finished it when he was still healthy, and maybe even take it to the next level.