Since our start in 1998, our organization has been almost majestic in its leadership transitions. One of Poile and Trotz has been with us for 26 years. When Trotz was let go, it was the definition of majestic. Poile hated to do it but "it was time". Trotz moved on with class and went on to win a Cup and have consistent success with mutliple organizations. When it was time for Poile to retire, Barry came home and was majestically handed the steering wheel while Poile headed to the HOF.
Preds ownership has relied on these two guys for everything hockey. The results have been very good. We've been a consistent playoff team, and we sell tickets. A total feel-good for the Good Ship Pred.
Barry's first year exceeded expectations. The GM transition seemed as flawless as the Rinne-Saros handoff. We'll continue getting HOF GMing with our homeboy.
Until now .....
Booting Trotz would mean ownership would have to take more direct responsibility for our on-ice performance. They'd have to play-the-field for a new GM. They've never been faced with this situation. Trotz can't fail. He's Barry freakin' Trotz. Poile's #1 Son. A graduate and golden alum of Pred U.
That's why Trotz will get a few more years to make sense out of what he's gotten us into. Maybe we rebound. It's hard to see how that happens. On paper, it should have already happened. His reactions to the turmoil have created more turmoil.
If Trotz ultimately sucks as a GM, the franchise is toast for at least 5 years. 2 more years to finally declare he sucks, and 3 more to rebuild from the sticks.
