I think the new system simply doesn't work with the group of players that we have. We have succeeded in being a better possession team but the way our team is built this style doesn't compliment our best players or play to their strengths which are speed and transition vs holding onto the puck, protecting it down low and grinding it out. Say what you will about Hartleys tactics and the analytics, but his system was built on counter attacking and utilizing our teams strengths of speed and transition to create chances. It was far more enjoyable to watch and i would argue if we had even average goaltending last year we would have been in the mix for a playoff spot.
I dont think it is any coincidence that some of our best players this year have been guys like Engelland and Ferland who have the physical tools to play this type of system. I think we need to take a good look at the players we have a build a system around the strengths of our best players vs trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. I think if we had a team built like the Kings or Ducks the system would look alot better but its not the right one for this team. The coaching staff needs to realize this or it will be a lost season.
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