Quote:
Originally Posted by dieHARDflameZ
I was at the practice on Tuesday and what Francis said is 100% accurate. Wideman was coasting out there, zero purpose to anything he did.
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In all fairness to Wideman, while practice might seem like best indicator of effort and engagement at first glance, its probably not. Things we don't see include the timing, duration, focus and intensity of Wideman's off-ice workouts.
Much of what we dont see could explain a few weak practices. For example, - a custom off-ice regeim to remain prepared might limit Wideman's intensity at practice.
I've been one of the largest critics of Wideman's game, but its hard to imagine that he would be dumb or self-centered enough to not be working hard off the ice given the possibility of an extended playoff run and his upcoming UFA status.
And as much as I haven't liked him in a top-4 role this season, I am ECSTATIC that he's our #7 defenseman. Injuries to defensemen played a role in our 2004 loss to Tampa and our 2009 loss to Chicago.