I'd be curious to know what his physical/checking/defensive game is like with the Monarchs. Just like his potential issues were probably ignored/buried when the whole roster was performing here (vs. how magnified they are when we're struggling), I'd imagine that's sort of the case in manchester, too.
The Monarchs play the exact same system as the Kings do.
Richards is not physical, that part of his game is gone. Probably never coming back.
Richards needs to learn how to be more positional sound, and use his hockey IQ to be better on Defense. He is no longer going to strip people from the puck with his body.
Like I said before, Richards needs to change his game. He still has very good offensive hockey IQ, that is plain as day to see in the AHL.
Richards is the most dangerous player on the ice with the puck nightly.
One thing I have noticed watching Richards in the AHL is; You have to pair Richards with a Finisher. Someone that has HANDS/Skill. The problem with the Kings bottom six is, it's flooded with Trevor Lewis's. Guys that don't hurt you Defensively, but generate nothing on offense, and can't bury good passes.
Richards is paired with Some really talented wingers in Manchester, they are loving Richards passing skill.
Also another note:
Not sure what Rob Blake meant when he mentioned conditioning was still a problem with Richards. Richards looks to be in shape.
He is not laboring anywhere on the ice, he is playing about 19-21 minutes a night, PK's,PP's. The only problem I see is Richards has to change his game defensively. Richards can no longer play that Physical brand of hockey he use too, his body won't do it. He doesn't in the AHL, and his play is much better because he doesn't.
Mike Stothers is a fantastic coach, what a hire by Blake/Lombardi.