It kinda just dawned on me that the Stars will be a bit more like Colorado this season (except for better goaltending) -- more reliance on the top 6 forwards and top 2-3 defensemen for scoring. We'll find out if this less balanced approach is better or worse than the approach under Pete DeBoer. Mikko Rantanen for a full season is a huge add, not to mention a healthy Jason Robertson with huge incentive to put up big numbers (ditto for Thomas Harley). But there is going to be a huge drop-off in scoring for the bottom 6.
Oh I guess that makes sense. I thought it was actually in reference to the leadership team that coaches will put together to discuss issues with behind the scenes. It wouldn’t make sense to have two of those which is why I was so curious.
I believe Bourque said on the DLLS podcast the other day that he's interested in/likes (paraphrasing - I don't remember his exact words) playing on his off side. Could be an interesting look and opportunity for him, especially with Gully's comments here!
I believe that's right. He said his most comfortable spot is center--that's what he said last year in camp too, when we talked about it--but if I'm remembering right from the DLLS interview, they did discuss with Bourque how it can be nice to cut it on your off-wing side because the puck is on your forehand then.
Thanks!! I watched the interview live so my memory was a little fuzzy. I'm curious to keep an eye on that from him just to see what may come about. But you're right, we shall see!
Indeed! It was great meeting you too! Stoked for this season. Ready to see the young core take a few steps forward. And thanks for your amazing writing!!
It kinda just dawned on me that the Stars will be a bit more like Colorado this season (except for better goaltending) -- more reliance on the top 6 forwards and top 2-3 defensemen for scoring. We'll find out if this less balanced approach is better or worse than the approach under Pete DeBoer. Mikko Rantanen for a full season is a huge add, not to mention a healthy Jason Robertson with huge incentive to put up big numbers (ditto for Thomas Harley). But there is going to be a huge drop-off in scoring for the bottom 6.
I think most of that drop off will be from Dadonov leaving. But if they get more from Johnston and Rantanen, it should be fine.
I agree. Robertson, too. He’s healthy again. Their top scorers need to stay relatively healthy, but that’s true on pretty much every NHL team.
Hey Robert, just curious on the two leadership groups. Any idea on the difference between the two??
I believe it's home v away, who wears the A changes depending on that but please correct me if wrong!
That's how I understood it as well, but I'll see if I can get some clarity from him later in camp, just in case he meant something else.
Oh I guess that makes sense. I thought it was actually in reference to the leadership team that coaches will put together to discuss issues with behind the scenes. It wouldn’t make sense to have two of those which is why I was so curious.
It’s a good question! Happy to clarify when I can.
I believe Bourque said on the DLLS podcast the other day that he's interested in/likes (paraphrasing - I don't remember his exact words) playing on his off side. Could be an interesting look and opportunity for him, especially with Gully's comments here!
I believe that's right. He said his most comfortable spot is center--that's what he said last year in camp too, when we talked about it--but if I'm remembering right from the DLLS interview, they did discuss with Bourque how it can be nice to cut it on your off-wing side because the puck is on your forehand then.
He discusses wing vs. center at around 42:45 of this interview, and he certainly sounds like he's thought about it: https://www.youtube.com/live/hlhJt8uJmzE?si=Qk84icoHCm4ofweK&t=2565
He does say he's never played his off-side, so maybe it would be a big adjustment. We shall see, I suppose!
Thanks!! I watched the interview live so my memory was a little fuzzy. I'm curious to keep an eye on that from him just to see what may come about. But you're right, we shall see!
The best plan is to pivot from “depth” scoring to “stop our top six if you can” plus “you’re not getting free ice” from the bottom 6.
I’m worried about COL and MIN, but Dallas will finish top 3 in the Central, and the. The fun will start.
First time at training camp - this is so cool to see the sausage making of implementing Gully’s vision…
It’s always a good time. And a fascinating one!
Indeed! It was great meeting you too! Stoked for this season. Ready to see the young core take a few steps forward. And thanks for your amazing writing!!
Was great to meet you too, Jeremy! Should be a fascinating year. Appreciate the kind words.