Sutter did say that he wanted to change the system, but couldn't with the condensed schedule and needing to win so many games. He did say he was going to make tweaks to it, but that the style of play was definitely wrong.
The one positive I have now is that at least Sutter has been here for this stretch, knows the team much better, can provide the feedback to Treliving (or whomever if he is fired), and then he can figure out a system to suit this team and have the time to implement it. Players now know what it is to play under him too, and I am sure they will work their asses off this off-season.
There are silver linings in this.
I also am very happy with the Gaudreau resurgence. I stated in the Bennett threat that Bennett needed players to play with pace - that goes for Gaudreau as well. Tired of seeing him be the first one up and have to do a button-hook trying to wait for players, just to see everyone covered. Gaudreau was at his best while this team was attacking with speed - that's Gaudreau's game - and under Sutter, we are seeing that and Gaudreau is getting much more productive again.
Not a whole lot of silver linings mind you, but definitely some. You have to not be watching the games to not see how much better this team has looked. I am thinking that they will rebound next year - dependent on moves of course (as long as the Flames don't get swindled or the returns are pieces that don't fit this team!).
|