Quote:
Originally Posted by Abatedmean
I think these types of games show the inexperience of Ward. I think we need a coach who is experienced in dealing with matchups and more or less a playoff mindset where you should have a game plan to beat a certain team. And I'm not confident in Ward's ability to do that this year. It also feels like Lucic has some friendships in Edmonton and just doesn't show up against them. He doesn't do much the other games but at least he has a presence, but against Edmonton, he is just flat out invisible.
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That has always been my concern with Ward. His record has been great so for that I can see him continuing to get a chance. However his in game management at times is very suspect. Especially on a night like this, with the last change. Formulate a strong game plan to stop McDavid and Draisatl. Yes it’s good to roll 4 lines but when you have two elite threats on a team, there is a checking line for a reason.
What works against him on the shift after the flames goal is that Gio was on the ice for Robinsons goal. Hence the only defensive option to put out there against McDavid would be Hamonic/Hanifin. That one is squarely on that duo, the sustained pressure.