Hotlanta
Registered User
- Dec 1, 2009
- 1,784
- 2
Ex Marlies coach Eakins is doing really well in Edmonton.AHL does not= NHL.
As someone who came into the season as a big Eakins supporter and a Spott hater. The man has done everything possible to change my opinion. He is smart and tough and expects everything from his players. Looking back now I can say Eakins coached to win first and develop players second. Spott is the opposite. He is not afraid to scratch a vet for a rookie if he thinks its best for the players development. He also likes to take the long approach with his players, so don't expect Verhaeghe, Brown, Gauthier, Rupert, etc. to just step into the top 6. He makes his players earn their spots and is very realistic on NHL expectations. He has his prospects play the same role in the AHL as the NHL to make for an easier transition.
He also isn't afraid to admit he was wrong. At the beginning of the season he thought Carrick would be an AHL player / 4th liner in the NHL. In his interview last night, he mention that Carrick has surprised him and with how well his skating along with other things have improved he could easily be a top 9, even top 6 player ONE DAY (not now).