Quote:
Originally Posted by Lshap
I sort of agree, but let's face it - part of the problem is a lack of cohesive coaching. We've moved from defensive, strategic hockey to aggressive, scrappy forechecking, but the players haven't had time to adjust. We still fall back into our timid shells in the third period. This is where a coach needs to inspire his players, or at least scare the crap out of them.
But yes, we need talent on more than one line. Bourque SHOULD be an effective scorer, Gionta SHOULD give us some real offense - we'll see next year. The crap shoot is how well young guys like Eller and Leblanc continue to develop. No sure-fire prospects coming up, with Gallagher being the best. Our magical upcoming draft pick will still need some time, which leaves... UFAs. Personally, I'd rather blow our wad on Suter, but if that's not possible (and let's face it - it's not) I'd be happy with Zach Parise. Even... Grabovski.
|
I wouldn't hold my breath for Bourque to hold any important role on this team. He had good stats playing with better players in Calagary,
somehow. Really surprising considering his concrete hands. The guy messes up on so many chances it's incredible. Unfortunately he's an AK without the sniping ability and who hits less. Why not just keep AK? No idea. I fully expect Bourque's stats to take a significant drop here.
We can also forget about UFAs. This is a pressure market, yet we have a losing team. Hardly ideal conditions for attracting quality players.
We'll see what Leblanc can do, but he's hardly a savior. It'll take him a while to grow as a player, and he's hardly known for his soft hands, so he still doesn't fill our needs.
Unfortunately, when one looks at our prospect pool, it's hard to see how the situation will get any better. I guess the last few drafts haven't been so great for Timmins, cause we don't have many worthwhile forwards coming.
