I can't even laugh at the darkness of this. It's just an acceptance that this will never change. No matter the GM, the coach, the players, this is our destiny.
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Originally Posted by MisterJoji
Johnny eats garbage and isn’t 100% committed.
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I agree with those that have said it's unlikely just Ward's fault. This team chronically seems to struggle with consistency, mental toughness, etc.
But, I also agree we've yet to see a coach with an established track record get a shot with this team. I think both are serious issues with this team frankly.
A Gallant/Boudreau type of coach in with a big shakeup trade is probably what's needed, but logistically I don't think Treliving makes either, especially during the season. Which only complicates the problem because the solution then is to replace Treliving, which means you're gambling that whoever comes in next doesn't also run into the blindspots.
Doing nothing though is infuriating because this is painful, boring hockey to watch for the most part.
This is true.
In this season, of all seasons, when the team and the league are trying to keep the game front of mind and garner ad revenue and TV deals, it is especially disappointing to have to be a fan.
I really hope they do make a coaching change at this point.
Worst game I've seen them play so far this year. But it was the third in four nights.
Tried to stay optimistic, but it's almost March now. Hopefully they can win the next three.
Monahan’s comments post game sound to me like he figures there’s a real effort issue in the room. Won’t name names, and includes himself.
We can argue about whether Ward’s systems or execution are to blame but either way, he has to be the goat. They either are doing what he says and it’s not working, or he is not able to get them to do it right. I’m not big on a coach having to motivate adult players, but there it is.
The only guy I see who gives effort game in and out is Tanev. I think that’s telling.
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Execution is a funny thing though in that it’s a fine line and sometimes what can be seen as execution are just a couple bounces.
They got a decent break on the Bennett goal, get a couple on the PP, got some big saves (and Toronto hit 3 posts), and a game that maybe isn’t a win on another night looks great with a 3-0 shutout.
I didn’t get to watch much of the game live (just catching up now) but just reading the game thread and looking at the box score and it looks like some of the same issues were still there.
- Still gave up a fair bit in their own zone getting hemmed in a lot
- Still didn’t generate very much offence at all 5v5
Biggest difference tonight is the special teams were good and the goalie pitched a shutout (which is impressive on 3.5 expected goals against).
But that’s the big thing with this system IMO, the margin for error is so slim even when they execute within the structure (which does look like they did tonight so far).
They invite a lot of pressure in their own zone (while limiting high danger), and they don’t take many risks to generate offence at 5v5, so if your goaltending is just okay or your PP had a bad night, then it can be tough to generate the offence needed to win. And if your goaltending is bad then it can end up on a night like we saw Saturday.
This was my post after the 3-0 win against the Leafs and it feels prophetic at this point.
No margin for error with this team or system, and if your goalie has a bad night then look out.
Change the players all you want but no roster in this league would look good with Geoff Ward and this terrible system.
