LETS NOT FORGET DEFENCE

All the hype about a talented team, offensive super-powers, finishing with the highest number of goals for last year, and definitely due (at least on paper) to break that record this year, it appears that the team has forgotten the second half of the ice. All the attention is getting the puck up ice to create offensive chances, when what seem to be killing us are goals against. We had a pretty good, simple, and effective system last year and I don’t see why the coaching staff has not reinforced this same play. Perhaps they were liooing to try something new, which might offer a better transition game and more scoring chances. But the fact of the matter is, it’s not working, the transition is not working, players are getting frustrated and evidently NOTHING is working.

We’re all familiar with the adage of KISS: “Keep It Simple Stupid” This works for me in my daily ventures and adventures both at work and at home, it worked for the HABS last year in their defensive play, so I don’t see why it wouldn’t work this year. As soon as one touches the puck in the defensive zone, just get it out into the neutral zone and let our speedy forwards fight for it. Best case they get it and create a scoring chance. Likely case the opposing blue liners will get it and dump it in, creating a delayed offside and allowing our “D” to make a better and easier play. Worse case they get the puck and come charging back in and we’re back where we started.

Maybe I’m over simplifying (who am I kidding, I am), but it seems that at a time when nothing is working and everyone is nervous, it’s the simple plays that are the way to go and get everyone back on track. Even Zorro the Beagle is with me on this one, and we usually disagree on everything unless we’re deciding on re-fried beans as the key ingredient to turn a boring taco night to an flatulently entertaining burrito night.