Jim Montgomery's record as Bruins coach:
114-34-20
Won an Adams trophy as coach of the year
Points percentage of .738
That's the same as Tom Johnson's percentage while coaching the 1971-73 Bruins. You know, "coaching" Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito in their prime.
So, after 4 games we have posters saying he should be fired. Better yet, some proud to say they wanted him fired earlier.
There is more to coaching than just a winning record ... especially with a loaded lineup.
My question concerning Montgomery is has he learned and become a better coach during his time here in Boston?
First year veteran line up set regular season all time record and then loaded for the playoffs. Team personnel made Montgomery's job very easy.
Playoffs, Coach failed to make adjustments to game plan/strategy against Florida during the series, lost at home game 7 overtime. Never should have lost that series. Never.
Second year one of the top teams eastern conference ... never having a true number 1 center. Some players over performed exceeding.
Playoffs, Won round one (luckily) against Toronto game 7 overtime at home - thank you Lindholm, Pastrnak, and Swayman.
Second round against Florida lost in six games at home. Made to few of adjustments to late into the series. The team did not have the same horses as the year before. Better, but made adjustments too little too late.
This year it's early ... I'm wondering if it will be more of the same old same old approach? It's been very successful, but not without flaws.
My question still stands has Montgomery learned from his experiences or will he just keep doing the same thing?
The regular season hides many of those flaws, but I want to see in season evidence that he has learned to make adjustments to his game plan.
Team talent has changed (dropped or rearranged) and many new faces. Can players who over preformed last year repeat their success?
How will Montgomery adjust and adapt to get the most out of this group.
It may take 40 - 60 games to see what we really have as a team and for a coach.
We need to give the team and him at least that much time.