Two losses in Europe. 0-2 for the first time since 2001. So why is this a good start for Barry Melrose? Because after the game 2 loss in Prague, he called some of his big names out.
“I hope our guys are embarrassed. We’ve just got to get our great players playing as hard as our lesser players and we’ll be fine.”
This is a players’ coach. We know that. But Barry knows if the tail wags the dog in Tampa he is in a whole heap of trouble.
Understand one thing – the New York Rangers were the worst possible match-up for the Bolts to open their season. The #1 defense in the East last season and they looked super-cohesive for a team just getting started. It’s so frustrating for a run-n-gun team like Tampa to feel like they are being suffocated. But frustration CANNOT give way to cruise control.
So who was Melrose talking about? From where I was sitting it was Vinny Prospal and Marty St.Louis.
Lecavalier gets a free pass because he is coming back from his shoulder surgery and he tried to make things happen every time out. Ryan Malone hit and fought. No way Barry calls him out. Steve Stamkos is a rookie and with the exception of his late penalty in game 2, played well. He thinks the game well beyond his years and knows how to get open. With his shot, he will have a number of multiple goal nights this season.
The third line comprised of center Adam Hall flanked by grizzled veterans Gary Roberts and Chris Gratton were praised by coach M and the goaltending was outstanding in both games.
Barry Melrose will never be as demanding as John Tortorella. We know that from their pasts, their styles and their personalities. But Melrose MUST let his team know 2 things: Who is in charge, and what he will and will not tolerate.
From a leadership standpoint…mission accomplished.
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