I think it’s been sufficiently demonstrated that the coach isn’t able to get the absolute most out of his roster, and on some nights push his players more than others to get that extra out of them at crunch time.
If he could, this team would have at least 10 more points without playing overall much better in games, just delivering knockout punches rather then letting teams hang around after being outplayed, or getting that third period goal rather then conceding, again, after more or less domination of the opponent all game.
For all his positive aspects, he simply cant push those personal buttons effectively. Is he too nice, too awkward, not believable? Who knows. But he got read the riot act by his GM which translated to a stick throw and a streak. Followed by a 6 game losing streak.
He’s got the team playing a system and they’ve more or less bought into his theory. But coaching millionaires still requires pushing them efficiently, sometimes pissing them off, and that has cost the team crucial points this year.
Given thet appears to be his personality, and it’s easier to let one or three guys go then have 20 players adapt their triggers of what motivates them to suit him, with a “win soon” approach from the GM, he just can’t stick around.
I don’t think a fantastic run these next 2 weeks to get to the playoffs gets him off the hook next year, unless they get to the third round somehow.
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