Join a team that hits and fights, then you hit and fight (Taylor Hall in Boston, for example). Join a team that fly-bys and grins passively while getting rag-dolled, then that's what you do (Simmonds and Matthews in Toronto, for example).
Yup, Boston's management has had some mess ups but their ability to decide to build a certain team and stick to it has allowed them to be successful for so long. It's the same thing we're seeing with the Avs right now, they have a certain style and acquire players who will fit that mold (e.g. getting Toews on the back end).
As Brian Burke once said, his son asked him if he would make a good gm, Brian responds “no, your too nice”
Absolutely. What's happening with the Leafs is a microsystem version of macrosystem realities. Even as a parent, if you're too permissive and too nice, there will be consequences. (just as there are consequences for being too authoritarian). Balance is key!
If this core 4 and this management team GM and Coach struggled against underdog Columbus and Montreal, then just wait until next year when its Boston and Tampa Bay in rounds #1 and #2 when the Leafs return to the Atlantic.
Not only will they need to prove it on their redemption tour, but the competition level is going from non playoff to serious and defending Cup champs.
Hope the Shanaplan is taking this into account, when they start swapping a few random deck chair depth pieces around making near league minimum and avoid those icebergs on their Titanic undertaking tour through the Atlantic.
I was watching that game last night and thinking we are fk'd. There is not a chance in hell we can go toe to toe with those kind of teams at this point. If Shanny had built this team like he played I would be over the moon. It's just so weird how passive the leafs are from physicality to our pp to how we play in general and unfortunately for us I don't think our core has that abrasiveness or fight in them that is needed. This core needs to watch Youngblood.
They are happy just to say they made the playoffs. What’s funny is next season I’m betting they don’t even make the playoffs with no massive change to the team and staff. We will be competing for first overall before success in the playoffs. It’s been a disaster so far.
if you're talking about the politician comment , then yup he nailed it . lol
It sure is depressing watching the good teams play. We will get slaughtered against them next year.
Same here. The Shannyplan was a fail. No point in dragging the pain out longer. It was a failed rebuild. Time to restart as there’s no point in being a playoff bubble team for the next few years.
