Nice video on Ekblad's offense. No doubt he can be a major impact player.
I was intrigued by his recent interview where he seemed to put distance between himself and Bob Boughner (it was all business, we only had 1 or 2 personal discussions in 2 years). When Boughner was brought on board, much was made of his relationship with Aaron Ekblad as he was growing up in the same neighborhood, was often at Boughner's house, etc. I was concerned that Aaraon would take Boughner's dismissal the hardest, and perhaps, personally. The fact the he is at least looking like he's moving on is a good sign to me.
Ekblad's game definitely changed after the concussions of a couple of years ago. He became more tentative and looked like he was hearing footsteps coming up behind him a lot. After a couple of years, I hope that is behind him now, but he was a very young player at the time and I hope those weren't formative experiences.
Another good sign is that he appears to be taking off-season workouts, training, and prep very seriously. I think he was so talented, that in the past, he thought he could just show up and dominate. Everyone works hard at the NHL level and slackers don't last long. I think there are signs that Aaron has matured and now takes the hard work seriously.
My hope for this year is that a proper defensive structure, Q's experience, and some positive results early build Aaron's confidence and swagger and turn him into the player we all know he can be. I believe Boughner's system held back the entire team defensively, but also failed to build confidence in each player's defensive skills and abilities. We had too much offensive aggression by defenders and too much alligator-arms defense last year.
To me, the key this year is a good early start with a lot of confidence-building success to reinforce the talent the young team has, along with a confirmation that Q and his structures will bring more success.
Go Panthers!
- JimboCoppertone
Jimbo -
As usual, I agree with your thoughts.
From what I've seen of Ekblad in interviews since the season's end, he seems laser focused on improving and taking a big step. It's awesome.
Yep, I think the concussion certainly made him more tentative and the scheme (or lack of) the past two years didn't do any favors for the defense and team as a whole.
I'm really looking forward to what he brings this upcoming season.
