Salinas-Christopher boys hoops

 To soon to call it a critical game?
 Not if you're Salinas.
 Potentially falling two games back with nine to play would create an uphill battle -- particularly with one of those teams you're chasing being Christopher.
 One of two teams unbeaten in the Gabilan Division, the Cougars have surged of late, having rattled off five straight wins, including a win at Monte Vista, a team that beat Salinas.
 Since falling in its season opener to St. Mary's of Stockton, Christopher has gone 11-2 behind 6-4 sharpshooter Chad Hartman, who is averaging 18.3 points a game.
 A double-double from Nat Hunsdorfer got Salinas back on track in a win at Monterey. If teams are going to focus on stopping LaRon Logwood, others have to step up.
 The Cowboys are a team with other options, starting with Willie Gray and Richard Torres. Salinas can expect pressure at the top from Christopher.