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Vancouver Canucks: Words from Willie Desjardins, Order of BC for Pat Quinn |
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After he signed on with the Vancouver Canucks just a few days before drama surrounding the draft and free agency, we haven't heard too much yet from Willie Desjardins about his vision for next year's team.
Willie was a guest on the TEAM1040 morning show on Thursday. Here's the link if you'd like to listen to the interview:
My first impression is that Willie is the anti-Torts. Not only is he doing media appearances in the middle of summer, he says he has already spoken to all the players by phone, has met with some of them and plans to meet with some more in the coming weeks.
He said he's checking in on everyone's training and making sure they'll be in shape for the beginning of the season. "We have to be able to win games in the third period because we're in great condition and not gonna tire out."
After all those games last season where the Canucks surrendered leads or couldn't get shots in the third, that point alone is music to my ears. Better third-period performances would translate to instant points if the team can practice what he's preaching.
Desjardins was most specific when talking about the roles of Alex Burrows and Zack Kassian. He said he's met with Burrows and considers him to be a key member of the team thanks to his passion, energy and commitment to winning. He thinks that Burrows can help Kassian become a more complete, consistent player. It sounds like he'll try to play them on the same line—says that'll help on the bench, as Burrows can keep talking to Kassian during the games.
Kassian's biggest hurdle, according to Willie, is his consistency. He says that Zack wants to take that next step: in order to get there, he needs to prepare better and focus more in practice so that he can be good every shift.
Burrows has said he doesn't mind not playing with the Sedins; he'll do whatever it takes. Willie acknowledges that the spot on the twins' wing is Vrbata's, but says that Burrows may also see some time on the first line.
He compliments both the Sedins and Alex Edler and says they they've proven themselves; they just need to get back to playing their best hockey.
When asked about young talent, Desjardins says "We're playing to win and that's how we'll build our lineup." If a young player comes in and beats out a veteran for a job, he's earned his chance. He also says that "if it's a tie, you go with the young guy." Believes there's more upside for the team as the youngster gets a chance to develop.
Linden Vey's the first guy on the list that "has to prove it." Desjardins says he expects him to be ready at camp, but he also needs to find a consistent NHL game—something that he hasn't done yet. "He's proven it in spurts when he was up with L.A., and in the American League. Now he has to prove it on an everyday basis."
Dave Pratt opened the interview by asking how close Willie came to accepting the head coaching job in Pittsburgh. He danced around that question a bit, saying only "There was a chance that could have happened."
Pratt closed by asking how the Canucks are going to make the playoffs in the tough Pacific Division, which drew a bemused chuckle from the coach. "That's the worst part of coming to Vancouver. It's such a tough division to come out of. But that's our job. It'll be tough, but it can be done."
On balance, I like what Willie had to say. He seems hard-working and like he'll be well-prepared, with a solid plan to get the best out of his players.
Do you remember when John Tortorella arrived at training camp last fall and had no idea who Mike Santorelli was? I don't think we'll be hearing any quotes like that this year.
Pat Quinn Named to Order of British Columbia
Following his entry into the Vancouver Canucks' Ring of Honour in April, the provincial government has now bestowed the team's old boss with B.C.'s highest honour. Congratulations to Pat Quinn!
Vancouver Canucks Blogger • 
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