I guess I'm naive enough to think it's growing pains. You have a group of young players going through their first coaching change, not to mention coming to the rink with big expectations and pressure due to new contracts. In addition to the new coach's voice in the room, you've got a prominent new leader you're getting to know and that means team leadership is finding a new equilibrium as well. And you have two new goalies getting to know the group.
I see a lot of thinking going on during games, instead of naturally reacting. The start hasn't helped anyone's confidence, either. So you have bad habits sneaking back in, or players trying to do too much individually, or overthinking leading to poorly timed or executed passes, decisions, shots, what have you.
It's been ugly. I also think this group is much, much better than they've shown so far, and are capable of much more as a group. It's frustrating watching a team you love to cheer for go through stretches like this, no doubt about it. But I do think we're in for a positive run when this group gets through this stretch. I hope it happens sooner rather than later, but only time will tell.
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