--For a team without a lot of high-end talent, the Houston Aeros have made it all the way to the Calder Cup final against the Binghamton Senators.

The Aeros nearly coughed up a 3-0 series lead before ultimately knocking off Hamilton in Game 7 for a Western Conference championship. By all accounts, Houston controlled the series, even losing Game 6 despite firing 61 shots on goal.

"You get what you deserve eventually," said Wild assistant to the GM Jim Mill, Houston's GM. "You hope if you keep showing the hard work, perseverance and resiliency that you get rewarded. That's what happened. The guys really battled. They showed character and pride."

--Aeros center Casey Wellman, maybe the Wild's top prospect in Houston at forward, scored two goals in Game 7 after being demoted to the fourth line. Houston GM Jim Mill said Wellman responded to coach Mike Yeo's challenge, which is a good sign for a player who might be on the Wild next season.

"He responded to the challenge and has to continue to do that," said Mill. "He's a young player who like all our young players is learning how to win. It was a brave move by Yeosie, an important move by Yeosie and the right move by Yeosie."

QUOTE TO NOTE
"This is a learning process for Casey. He's learning what it takes to play playoff hockey." -- Houston Aeros GM Jim Mill on youngster Casey Wellman.

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