|
Was a good game. Defense looked more solid, and Lyon was on it all night. SHG was kinda frustrating, for sure. Shows there are still some back-side gaps.
Not sure where this is going, however. I think it's a dog-fight to the last 2 games of the season. The experience fore these guys will do them some good, lets them know what it takes to MAKE it.....or not. Also gives management an idea of areas to focus on during UFA, who to retain internally, etc... Seeing several rumors about Lalonde's days possibly being numbered, and as many saying we're still 3yrs or so away form being serious contenders. I'm not sure what the deal is, no one knows except The Captain and his most-trusted agents. Berube would be a nice fit, demanding guy, reads talent very well, knows how the game is played. Lalonde didn't play pro-hockey...
Blash never played pro, Lalonde never played pro, both had less than ok performances as coaches. I see a trend here.....not sure what others think. Listen, I think if we're serous about completing the rebuild (and I DO know it takes a while to completely re-build based on all the articles and feedback I've read/seen....) without rushing, and we're around 2-3yrs away still....maybe now's the time to pull the trigger with an EXPERIENCED coach who has NHL play in his resume', someone who knows the game, Berube, Gallant (think there was a TON of interest in Gallant amongst the posters here before Lalonde was hired). I mean, really it's 50/50, right? New ideas from a new coach who hasn't had an extensive background but was in a winning program (Lalonde), or an "old head" who played the game, has a winning history, knows the NHL mentality from playing....OK yeah, I'm slanting the odds for Berube/Gallant, apologies but I wonder if having someone like them vs Blash/Lalonde is better for developing kids in the midst of a rebuild? I don't know.... The slow starts, lackluster team D, that tastes like coaching to me. The errant shots ringing off the posts, etc... that's the player. Just feels like what's being taught isn't sticking.....We definitely have some talent, and issues with LACK of talent, that's management. Looks like enough "blame" to go around.
GREAT win last night. This is STILL a good team. Lots of holes and issues....but this is, at it's core, a good team. They need a wake-up call. Larkin cannot do it alone. And as much as folks say Larkin isn't this or that, the Chicklets guys and some of their guests are talking about why not have Larkin for MVP as he's contributed the most to the team. Not saying I agree with that, but he's been incredible this season, hit his stride, and has truly carried this team on his back AGAIN.... |
