That isn't the first time. I think it was Dwayne Roloson who also spoke highly of Garth Snow after he was traded. For all of the complaining, I do not recall ever seeing a player have anything negative to say about Garth Snow.
But here's the thing about that, PK... I've left plenty of jobs where I had a lot of respect for my boss or my boss's boss. There are other factors at play and just because the guys respect him, doesn't mean they won't walk away if they get a better opportunity. Snow may be respected, but if the Isles ain't winning... who gives a **** about that?
I think there's validity to that, but when I suggested that a reason Snow might not have been replaced was because of his relationship with Tavares I was mocked around here. After Hamonic's quote, I think it's evident that they do have a good relationship with Snow and I think (and presumably the owners agree) that would help re-sign Tavares. It doesn't mean he will definitely sign, but it certainly can help.
Can also consider...I mean just one little iota...That even if Tavares loves snow as a person, that if snow was replaced there might be a BETTER CHANCE that he resigns? Can you please just consider that...I mean even the smallest amount?
Because if he "loves it here" as he's said time after time and said that ownership/management has treated him very well...Then why are there any discussion about Tavares leaving at all?
BECAUSE WE HAVEN'T WON ENOUGH. Snow could be the coolest dude on the planet, but if he didn't blow every top 5 pick he had other than Tavares, we'd be a lot closer to Cup contention and then there would be no questions about him staying.
So once again...Relationships be damned - It's all about winning and snow hasn't been good enough. He's backed both himself and the Isles into corner that's now come to a head this offseason where he's probably GMing for his job and the resigning of our franchise center.
Why did it have to come to this?
Because once again it comes down to what some of us have been screaming for years...We have a GM that is failing the team and the fans. Tavares' expectations are higher than what snow can deliver. If anything Ledecky/Malkin should recognize this and truly get Tavares, AND US, what is deserved...
A Cup caliber GM.
..but of course they can't because wang is such a ****** ****** and saddled us with probably at least 6 more years of the same mediocrity. In the end I think Tavares will stay, but missing the playoffs in the NHL the summer of your pending UFA can never help. It should never have come to this.