Fabbri wanting to stayIn Detroit was something I looked at in the previous column. It seems that more than just Detroit fans were impressed by his turnaround.
Mlive is reporting That the former first round pick of St. Louis has been nominated for the Masterson award. This award is given to players for perseverance, sportsmanship and commitment to the game. We certainly saw that in what was clearly Yzerman’s best player acquisition last year.
We’ve heard the phrase “worst to first” in regard to underdogs who achieve the improbable. In Fabbri’s case, he literally went from “first to worst”. Leaving last year’s Stanley Cup champion for a team that was picked by almost everyone to finish in last place. The trade saw Fabbri reunited with former teammate Tyler Bertuzzi, and his impact was immediately felt.
What impressed me so much with Fabbri last year was his attitude. Seemed to always be smiling, certainly has a great work ethic, and went “glass half full” in his interviews. Robby was grateful for this opportunity, and he made the most of it. To his credit, he still talks about his gratitude and wants to stay in Detroit.
Though there are players who will say the same, the motivation isn’t. Robby wants to pick up and grow after a tough start to his NHL career. This isn’t about staying with a team where his family has settled in. It’s not about “comfort”. This player wants to be a part of the change for the better. That makes me smile. It takes a lot of guts to knowingly sign on for the task Detroit is facing. That attitude is what needs to be in the locker room. The fear of a losing culture seizing the team is a hard reality. There has to be buy in that commitment to the process and to outworking your opponent will yield positive results. There is no room for people who aren’t passionate about the team. Complacency is a poison that will derail a team in transition. I do feel that Fabbri is a good fit for the team, and hope Yzerman keeps him on board.
Lawrence Pilut Has left Buffalo for the KHL, signing a two year deal. Of interest, when first linked to the KHL, the Sabres told “The Athletic” that there would be an NHL out clause. It isn’t yet known if that clause is in effect or not. The reason I find this move interesting isn’t because this is a “blue chip” player, but simply one that may be taking advantage of an opportunity to play competitive hockey instead of being of for 10 to 11 months.
The “unlucky 7”, of which Detroit and Buffalo are both members, has a lot of intrigue in this regard. The California teams have a mix of veterans and youth to be sure. Veterans are far more aware of what they have to do to stay ready for the NHL rigors. Nick Lidstrom would punish himself in the weight room before the season start in his final years with the team. He seemed to understand the grind of the season and had a litmus test on whether or not he felt he could still compete. That level of understanding isn’t always there for players. We’ve seen players have contracts cancelled for showing up “out of shape”. We also see injuries in camp that can derail an entire season. The long time away from the game concerns more than just an observer like myself. As the “return to play” continues to gain clarity, so will the off season plans of players.
Many players have separate agents for Europe and North America. During the last lockout, European teams would leak information of any high level players that were negotiating with their front offices. It’s a good way to drum up ticket sales and interest if an NHL player comes willingly, and not due to an inability to find work in the NHL.
There is a risk, however. If a player goes overseas and is injured in a scenario that wasn’t approved by their team, they can be suspended without pay. The Byfuglien saga last year, though due to surgery and not off ice training, is a good example. The clubs will want to have some say as to the safety of their players. There are insurance policies available, but they aren’t cheap. That was part of the reasoning for NHL withdrawal from the Olympics.
The prospects and younger players may be able to benefit from a longer layoff. Younger tendons, less muscle rigidity (less likely to tear and snap) and typically a need to put on weight. During the season it’s hard to “bulk up”, but the offseason offers better opportunities. In the case of the teams not in the playoffs, those players could put on 10 plus pounds with the right routine and trainer. Aaron Ward runs something called “the potato farm”. Other trainers and programs are there to help with diet and routine. It could be a boon to a Joe Veleno, Filip Zadina or Cholowski to take advantage of this time. Get a more powerful skating stride, bulk up and toughen up.
I have a feeling that Larkin will do his level best to organize scrimmages and routines for his teammates. He did a fantastic job last year getting a group to work out together and be accountable. It’s going to take a lot of discipline for these players to be ready after this layoff.
The other natural result of all of this will be some sort of condensed schedule. Back to backs, 3 games in 5 days, etc. That will be a rough ride. Expect the carousel of call ups to be used early and often.
So what would you do? Sign with someone in the SHL? KHL? Go to France, Scotland, England or Germany? There are probably markets where you’re less likely to face physical play and risk getting rocked by some kid who wants to make a name for himself. Or, would you just try to ride it out with 10 months of training and trying to be creative? Would love to hear your thoughts and input.
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