MT. PROSPECT, IL - The USHL Chicago Steel's mid-season review can best be described as mind over matter.   Early into the 2009-2010 season, the Steel were playing great guns, fostering a great winning streak.  And for the first time in years, Chicago is boasting a well-balanced offense that worked (and scored) well together. 

This year’s Chicago Steel All-Stars include Russia's Andrei Kushin, who has 45 points going into this weekend’s games, All-Star defenseman Kevin Lind who goes into this weekend's competition with a plus-minus of -1.  Veteran goaltender Nick Pisellini has proved to be strong in net.

But we're barely passed mid-season, and yes, time changes things.  The fast charging Steel are 16-21 overall; 5th in the East of the USHL.  So, what caused the drastic change?  Injuries...trades?   None of the above.

According to veteran Chicago Steel head coach and GM Steve Poapst, it is all in the head.

"It's been the mental mistakes that have sealed our fate.  We started the season fast and confident.”

Unfortunately, that can create a false sense of security.  Overconfident play tends to produce underachievers and a lot of mistakes that can kill you.  Small mistakes at the blue line can easily stifle smooth movement on offense.  Poor communication between defensemen pairings can also create major headaches for Steel goaltenders. And it shows. The Steel goaltending team of Wilson and Pisellini are now ranked 15th & 16th in goaltending.

Certainly, outside influences can create bumps in the road.  Scholastic challenges can create as much pressure as what players face on-ice.  Trades can also alter the on ice and off-ice "flow".  It's too early to tell just how forward Mark Anthoine's February 6th trade to Sioux Falls will affect the team. 

The Green Bay Gamblers currently lead the East with an overall record of 33-7. For the Steel to draw closer to their archrival in the East, two goals must be met.  Most importantly, the Steel must play mistake free as a team.  Secondly, they'll need a lot of help from fellow East Division teams.

It will take a concerted effort to slow down the Gambler's winning streak.

You can contact the author at TOM.MILLER@PROHOCKEYNEWS.COM