I still have mixed emotions about this and still value an old school coach in Sutter but would love to pair it with a more modern perspective. Experience matters, experience running a bench, a practice, dealing with ref's, players and tactical matters matter.
I just wish we could have a little bit of both and that upper management/ ownership would have taken a bigger hand in having Sutter ease off when required. Bring a more gentle approach once in a while and making sure that everybody is treated strongly yet respectfully. There is nothing wrong with high level management imposing a directive onto a coach/GM for the above mentioned matters.
My concern is that the ownership group will try and reduce the costs of his contract and spread it around the organization.
Players are still players and they may be a little different now, so should the coaches. Older people can adjust, improve and incorporate new techniques. On a recent Fan 960 interview, a prominent NHL agent let it be known that one of the most advanced GM in the league is NYI GM/President Lou Lamoriello at nearly 81 years old.
It's just frustrating that we had to go down the same path and have the same negative outcomes as a result. Everybody and their "Some coaches have a shelf life" mentality don't appreciate you can still be a long term bench boss, stern, tough and accountable while winning. You need to mitigate the downside risks while getting the positive aspects.
|