Conroy was on breakfast television the other day and they asked him the "size" question. Said that people mistake that and take it literally. Do they want big guys, yes, but if there is a player that is a little smaller that is skilled but plays big that's ok too. Burke uses Paul Byron as an example, Burke loves Byron. So he's not opposed to smaller players as long as they play big. And the whole truculent thing. He just wants players that don't give up, again, play big, and just work hard every shift... being hard to play against.
The defense, he wants a bigger stronger group, but the forward group he wants skill.. if they can get size great, but if the player is skilled and a little small, that's ok too... as long as the play big..
The scouting staff have their marching orders with regards to the type of players they want... Conroy said several times, the emphasis on size is getting overblown by the media and fans. End of the day they want skilled, smart, hard working hockey players.
I know most people don't like or trust Burke, but I trust Conroy, and after hearing him describe the direction of the team I'm more comfortable.
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