I have always said that the week between weekend games is too long for most coaching staffs. They talk themselves in and out of so many game plans that by game time they are worn out and confused. They clearly over-think and over-prepare. They should concentrate on skills and conditioning and only spend 1-2 days preparing for their next games. That said, the OSU home series against Ohio State is VERY important to the direction the Lakers are heading for the stretch run. A split would be great, a sweep beyond expectations, but 1 point or less could signal that the continuing slide down the standings will result in loss of home ice for the playoffs and a good shot for a return to the Joe.