Either we are listening to the leagues LePreference for it to be a family friendly game more than other teams, or George has constructed one of the softest teams in the league. Or more specifically, the defense.
Perhaps the boys don't get along and don't give a rats ass about each other, but I tend to doubt that.
It must be demoralizing to see our guys getting suspended or called for penalties, while our opponents get off scott free. It needs to boil over to get past it. One good frustration filled game, no more lashing out in texts and to reporters. Glaring from the safety of the bench.
I would say we need a brawl filled game to bring the team together but its just not common in the league anymore. With Erskine our heavy an 8, we pack nothing more than a wet noodle on D. Watch forwards around our goaltender, they are fearless. Post whistle, we are afraid of them all. Alzner gets a shout for going after Lucic but behind him, yikes. Sackless sissies.
It doesn't matter, really, since the team doesn't have either. Heart IS sticking up for your teammates and standing your ground when the other team is trying to walk all over you. Instead these guys cower and make it easier. When was the last time multiple Caps players initiated a real scrum and got tough? It usually has to be initiated by the other guys, and the team just goes for hugs anyway.
It doesn't matter, really, since the team doesn't have either. Heart IS sticking up for your teammates and standing your ground when the other team is trying to walk all over you. Instead these guys cower and make it easier. When was the last time multiple Caps players initiated a real scrum and got tough? It usually has to be initiated by the other guys, and the team just goes for hugs anyway.
heart is so much more than that. heart is caring and it's not all about fighting, it's about giving it your best every night.
This team being soft isn't news. It's why I was excited when they brought Hunter (and JJ) in. Unfortunately, nothing has changed except now they play a trapping game instead of run-n-gun so they're soft and boring.
IMO, this is a personnel thing and not a heart thing. This team does not have an enforcer, let alone several tough guys who can play. Erskine hasn't seen the ice lately but he helps in this regard. Otherwise, who's next? Hendricks? Brouwer? They are good core guys who play a physical game with heart but not enforcers.
I don't see what's the point in more guys getting their arses kicked by Bourque. Realistically, what can Dale Hunter can do about this? IMO this is something McPhee needs to address.
