The Ottawa Senators (17-16-8) aren't ready to say die even despite the lengthening odds. They're committed to making the NHL's postseason party, conventional wisdom – and overall talent level – be damned.
But with eight points between them and a playoff spot, something will have to change at some point, either on the ice or in the locker room makeup.
Sens GM, Bryan Murray though he's seeking deals, won't be rushed into making a move.
"We have to give it a little bit longer here," said Murray, per Bruce Garrioch of The Ottawa Sun Times. "There's a couple of guys I wouldn't mind doing something with but that's not going to be easy to do.
"We're going to have to take a step here and evaluate where we are very soon and then make a decision if we're going to try to add or subtract."
Their stated desire to make the playoffs apparently won't push Murray into any rash decisions, as they've decided to take a "wait and see" approach.
"The Senators remain hopeful this team can get on track and string together wins. Speaking in a mid-season telephone interview from Florida Saturday afternoon, Murray told the Sun he'd rather add a top-six forward and is in wait-and-see mode on changes," Garrioch writes.
They'll have to get on track soon as we've reached the season's midway point and the Sens have lost six of their last nine games.
ESPN's Pierre LeBrun reported last week that the team was looking add to their lackluster offense – they're 19th in the league in goals per game.
Murray, via Garrioch, echoes that sentiment, again pointing to a top-6 forward.
"What I've talked to several teams about is, a forward," Murray said. "A guy is maybe a little more experienced, a known point-getter or at least has a chance to get points. Those aren't easy to come by.
"We know we need another first-line player. We have players who have a chance to get there, but they're just not there right now, and that's hard to get."
Time is running out for Murray and the Sens. If they're serious about making a run at the playoffs, they need reinforcements – and fast.