Quote:
Originally Posted by Jimdon
The first half of the season I remember a lot more criticism of Gio than I do of Andersson. people were shocked that Gio looked so lost and maybe his age had caught up with him. Tanev and Hanifin were great that time. That Tanev was moved up to play with Gio was probably more of an indictment on Gio than it was with Andersson.
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I do remember that as well. But I think the problem for Gio was two-fold. The system the team was playing under Ward, allowed the opposition to take over the middle of the ice which forced the defensemen to give up the blue line. Gio’s 37 years old, mobility is not his strength. So without proper back pressure, his pairing was getting crushed.
He’s also needed a speedy partner to make up for the occasional mishaps and Brodie was that guy in the past. Once Tanev partnered up with Gio, his game hit another level similar to what we’ve seen from him in years past. I don’t think Gio has ever really lost it, his game is all about his instincts and hockey IQ. But he’s more effective as a half court player these days and I think Darryl’s new system has made all the difference for his game.