Quote:
Originally Posted by Bingo
Hate to get in the way of a solid I told you so, but isn't the core somewhat flawed if it takes a two time cup winner (3) and future hall of fame task master to get them to try every game?
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I think the issue here is that 'try' isn't the right word.
No doubt they were 'trying' under Ward. But if you're being asked to do things that aren't resulting in success, it is difficult to remain motivated (and play your best). If you are given a role that isn't well suited to you being successful, it is difficult to remain motivated. If you don't 'believe' in what your team is doing, it is hard to be motivated.
If your confidence and belief structure is shot, it is impossible to play well.
No one was blaming everything on the coach. But many people were saying this team doesn't have enough talent, and a new coach won't really matter much. Others (myself included) felt the talent was there and the right coach could make a huge difference.
At the end of the day, it is the coach's job to have the team playing well. Ward was not accomplishing that.
Now, under Sutter, some things have changed instantly: primarily moving the puck faster, playing faster, and playing with more intensity. Is it up to the players to play with intensity? Yes. Is it up to the coach to create an environment whereby the players can play their best and be successful? Yes.
Criticizing the players because they weren't 'trying' before is kind of petty, to be frank, and comes across as being bitter for the "I told you so' comments (which yes, are very premature at this point).