Quote:
Originally Posted by Saqe
Their defense has been a lot better the last couple of games. It was really, really bad before.
What do you think about their new coach? To me it seems a lot their early season struggles has been due to the new system... or the lack of.
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Not sure yet. I think Boughner knows what he's doing, but it hasn't shown up on the ice yet. It was the same way when Gulutzan started with the Flames. I think part of it is that there are 3 defensemen 22 and under on the roster, which means mistakes will happen. From my perspective, there's simply a lack of a cohesive team defense structure, and guys are missing their assignments regularly. It could be due to the teaching period of a new system, but it also could be that some of these players are just not very aware defensively.
The core was able to play good defense under Gallant, but quite a few of those players have moved on (Campbell, Jokinen, Smith, Gudbranson, Kulikov, etc. etc. etc.). They are relying a lot more on the young players to carry the team, and they're struggling at times. The NHL is a tough league for a young player to learn.
All in all, I think they'll get there, but it might be a rough season to watch at times.