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Wow. That was a completely different team. But, as you said; One we've become accustomed to unfortunately.
Systems need a complete revamping. Detroit has some strong talent, but not strong enough to contend. The PP is anemic, GPG is atrocious, PK is slightly better over the past 20+ PK occasions...but nothing spectacular.
We're laden with burdensome contracts to aged players, we rely on 3 players to carry the mail, we're soft, and the situation is actually improved over last year. 1 win away from last year's total in 20+/- games is amazing. There's hope based upon the W-L record and some of the stats. Help is on the way: Kids coming back that're studs, contracts are expiring, cap space is opening, lots of 2d/3d round picks. Am concerned because we're woefully short on picks in next year's draft, which is something that needs to be addressed or the rebuild may stall.
Fingers crossed that the kids continue to improve before they hit NHL ice. But we need a different system with a different philosophy of exploiting talent and taking ownership of the team, in the aggregate. Yes, there is hope, and based upon the Mantha move, surprises will be forthcoming. There may be a few shocking moves, but the trust of the fans needs to be there, the players have to trust the system...and I don't sense the players trust the system. They're worn on emotionally, tired. Partly the season, partly the continued abysmal coaching & assessment/employment of talent. So, when I say "system", I'm speaking specifically about the coaching system. It's only an observation, but there are others that feel the same. Maybe Blash stays another year because we're not contending next seqson. Maybe 2, most-likely 3 before we truly turn the corner, 4-5 before being serious contenders. But I think Blash is done after next season, if not sooner.
Help is on the way. We just need to be patient. |
