No offense, but Tips’ defense lagging

We were warned it might be like this. Five minutes left in the second period at Comcast Arena and the Silvertips trail the Tri-City Americans, 4-3.

We were warned about an adjustment period with new head coach John Becanic replacing Kevin (Defense first, last and always) Constantine. We were told of a new style, one that places greater emphasis on the players’ offensive skills. That’s plainly in evidence. The team, seems faster and more wide open. The trouble is, so’s the Tips’ goal mouth. On each Americans goal, Leland Irving didn’t have a chance. No one’s getting a body on anyone. We’re talking Matador City. Constantine would have a stroke if he saw this.

There’s a lot of potential here, but it’ll take some time. The Tips will be much better by Christmas than they are tonight. But they have some work to do.

Touching tribute to Dave Piland, the former Tips PA announcer who died of brain cancer Sept. 14. Very respectful moment of silence before the game. They’re naming the announcer’s booth after him, which is only fitting. And Greg Piland, the 21-year-old chip off the old block, is the new announcer. Good times.