[dammage79]

Originally Posted by Cali Panthers Fan

I have to defend Brouwer a little because he gets what it takes, even if he isn't able to necessarily do what it takes himself.

The interviewer asked him about missing the playoffs and he said this is only the 2nd time since junior that he's missed, and he doesn't like the feeling at all.

Another question was proposed to him about the high shot count and low goal total down the stretch and what can be done to fix it. He was pretty clear on his analysis. The strategy was to take a lot of shots from the outside simply to get the puck to the net, and then get 2nd and 3rd chance opportunities in close and bang home some goals. He said that the team simply wasn't able to generate those 2nd chances, so they were often 1 and done, and the stats don't indicate that. He said flat out that guys need to get stronger or become more determined or be able to free up their sticks in tight in order to give themselves an opportunity to score some goals. On that subject, he also added that moral victories don't mean anything, actual victories do.

Sorry guys, but Brouwer gets it. He might not be the most effective player on the ice physically, but he knows how to play the game at this level. I wouldn't be shocked to see him get bought out, but here's one thing that hasn't been brought up yet:

We all think Gulutzan hasn't gotten the most out of this roster, and people often bring up the play of guys like Brodie, Bennett, etc. Brouwer hasn't played under anyone besides Gulutzan here in Calgary. Is it possible that Gulutzan screwed up Brouwer's game too? Did he not play to Brouwer's strengths?

I don't know the answer to that one, but I think it deserves consideration at least before we punt him off the team.

Fair post. And worthy of consideration. I am happy with what he said about the shots counts stuff.

I've been banging that drum for a while.