Flyers' Tortorella admits defeat on fight against Michigan goals: 'I've lost that battle'

[WhatTheDuck]

Lol I like Torts, but yelling at a cloud isn't a battle

 

[coooldude]

Torts doesn't like it from a 'smart hockey play', and how it creates turnovers. I appreciate The Michigan from a skill standpoint, but wouldn't be offended if the NHL made it illegal.

What the success rate of The Michigan, anybody know?

No need to make it illegal. It's definitely not a high percentage play in the NHL, because defenders and goalies are often fast enough to neutralize it. Granlund is about 0/3 in the last two seasons, just as one minor example.

You guys make it sound like the pass from behind the net is the highest percentage play ever. It's a way to beat coverage. Of course you aren't going to do it if you have a teammate wide open in front of the net. Furthermore, even after most unsuccessful "Michigans" puck ends up in the crease so it's pretty much as good as any rebound chance.

Well, Michkov did try it with an open teammate a month ago and that's what Torts was referring to. And I don't know if he's right, but he said that most of the attempts ended in turnovers, not a puck in crease attempt.

I think the kid really wants one because he maybe sees it as an achievement he wants to hit, and he wants to be seen as someone who can do it. Torts sees him give up good scoring chances trying to force it to make it happen. When the kid had other options any coach is going to be against it, especially when it fails. It’s always better to throw the puck in the slot or at the goalies feet than to try a low percentage skill play of any kind, and coaches want you to play the percentages. In this way, Torts is right.

I don’t agree with “no place in the game” though. I just love how people are getting on him when he’s admitting he’s relenting from his stance - the opposite of him fighting for it. He’s throwing up the white flag.

Good take. I have no problem with Michkov trying it and I have no problem with Torts coaching him on why it's not typically the best option. I really liked this answer from Torts. I think "no place in the game" isn't him saying it should be banned, it's saying he doesn't respect the attitude that drives a desire to Michigan. It's a little "old man yelling at cloud" but he admitted it's not worth yelling about any more. Good on him.

In the NHL the better play is probably, usually, but maybe not always, to look for a clean pass or drive to the net rather than trying it. That was his main point.

 

[Ianturnedbull]

Torts also admitted defeat to players using their sticks like pool cues...

 

[johnnyonthspot]

The game needs Michigans and the game needs Torts.

The game does not need the Michigan but it needs more guys like torts!!

 

[Voight]

No shame in admitting defeat. Torts fought valiantly.

Every good general retreats at some point

 

[Prairie Habs]

Torts is finally getting through to michkov. Great defensive play.