As you say, multiple, previously uncharacteristic problems cannot be resolved via trade.
Not least because at this point you would have to trade 80% of the roster.
They need scoring. That should and likely will be addressed at a later date.
As noted previously, you can blame management and, in particular, the players for the ugly circumstance they find themselves in. Both have played their part in what appears to be a train wreck on several levels.
However, I repeat:
*All* of Boston's present woes can be largely laid at the unhappy feet of Jim Montgomery.
Myriad Issues plaguing the club have been obvious or incipient from the beginning of Montgomery's tenure.
If you - if *anyone* - can explain Montgomery's defensive system, structure, scheme or plan, I would very much like to know what it is.
In the event, it is impossible to do so because under Jim Montgomery, there is no defensive system, structure, scheme or plan.
There never has been.
Montgomery's defensive "philosophy," to the degree he has one, is predicated on quick transition out of the zone.
The premise seems to be that if you can beat your opponent to the puck, win & maintain possession of it, and move into the offensive zone, there will be little defending to do.
The best defense is offense, in other words.
Remember, as a coach Jim Montgomery has never had a defense first mentality.
Rather, the opposite.
He has always been primarily concerned with creating offense.
When restricted exclusively to producing offensive results, as he was as an assistant coach in St. Louis, Montgomery has proven a valuable asset capable of great success.
Yet for the thousandth time, I assert that, at present, tactically & strategically, he is not a competent NHL head coach.
A deserving sacrifical lamb, Montgomery will meet his end soon enough.
*Then what?*
Last edited:
