For one thing, their forechecking is smothering the Rush. How many times have you seen the Rush defensemen turn or stop in their own zone while carrying the puck up. They can't get through the neutral zone, and as soon as they get there, they just dump the puck in. The Rush are not a very good dump and chase team.
The Komets also came out playing tough right away, and Stephon Thorne and David Starenky made a big impact early. They talked and shoved after every whistle, and it seemed the Rush backed up a little.
This could also be an example where the long pregame festivities again may hurt the home team.
I haven't watched the whole game, but every time I tune in it seems the majority of play is in the Rapid City end. Komets just seem to have a lot more energy tonight.
