Part 5, Chapter 6 Summary

The next three games are against the weakest teams in the league, and Carlson cuts back on Mick's playing time to give him a rest. Mick's father agrees with the decision. Although Mick makes good plays, he doesn't feel as if he is good enough. He begins doing everything he can think of to prepare for games, from conserving energy to focusing on stretching.

Mick heads to Heather's birthday party. As he drives there, he sinks into depression, wondering if anything is worth it, and wondering if he is good enough. Instead of going to the party, Mick simply drives around.

Part 5, Chapter 6 Analysis

Mick attempts to prepare himself for the games using every method he can think of that does not involve the use of performance enhancing drugs. But depression brought on by use of those drugs -in coordination with...