So I have been on the fire Downing wagon for some time now. However I try to look at this from the professional vs personal perspective. I have no clue if this has been a prior issue for him off or on the job. I do imagine all the media and fan noise around his performance and job had to be weighing on him. I know they hear it even if they don’t acknowledge it. They way Downing was acting on the sidelines it was clear this was a statement game to his critics…he and those around him were acting like it was a playoff game.
I trust Vrabel and the team to review and address it…however my biggest concern is where he got the alcohol. They dont exactly take time to celebrate before getting on the plane for home after the games.