I’m fairly confident MSL has the experience necessary to analyze and identify other teams’ systems and adjust accordingly. It’s not magic or rocket science (even if many in this thread seem to think it is). If he’s learning how to make in-game adjustments better, I’m fine with that too. I’m not going to agree with every one of his choices, but I find the team to typically respond well, even if the outcomes aren’t always there. I really don’t think this is an issue related to MSL’s analytical/tactical capacity or fit with the club. I’d be fine if they brought in an experienced assistant coach to provide more support for the defensive group specifically though.
When it comes to Matheson’s minutes, I’d rather Matheson take the heat than Guhle or Hutson. Xhekaj played very poorly to start the year at both ends of the ice and he earned a spot in the press box. Struble and Barron have also sat. This is a non-issue when guys are still getting good minutes. I’d be happy to take Matheson off PP1, but I don’t mind Hutson having the play flow through him with his own unit - even if it’s with fewer skilled players. Matheson isn’t a 1D and shows us that every game, but putting one of our young guys in that position isn’t going to benefit them or the team if they aren’t ready… and I don’t think they are.
The hybrid system is proving to have a steep learning curve for some of our players. That’s the regression. The team might have marginally better outcomes if they moved back to man-to-man or played zone. If things don’t shift soon I’m expecting they might. I don’t expect them to change coaches unless MSL himself wants out.