"Be aware that a halo only has to fall a few inches to become a noose." (Dan McKinnon).
When he was hired, Gordon was viewed as the perfect guy for the job - and that job was rebuilding. We also heard a lot about his "system" and how it would generate excitement and offense. It's obvious that the "system" is not generating offense and in fact, it seems to be more successful at generating discontent.
Earlier this week Witt complained about defensive breakdowns (this could be one of those - if I shoot my mouth off they'll send me packing statements) and then Gordon somewhat reluctantly concurs. They now have a 9 game losing streak (0-8-1) and they have averaged a mere 2 goals per game (20 goals in the 9 games). That's pathetic - and they can't even blame it on facing top notch goalies (e.g., Brodeur, Luongo, etc.). Guys have been in-and-out of Gordon's "doghouse" for failing to play "the system" for a full 60 minutes and the team has shown it can hang with most teams if the games were only 40 minutes. (Note to Snow: ask league to shorten games to 40 minutes).
I've been saying it since DAY ONE - this team does NOT have enough talent to win consistently - regardless of what "system" they play. That being said - I do like Gordon's approach. It can be more exciting & daring. They need to get themselves more talent. The fact that Snow & Gordon apparently stepped through the looking glass and the funny looking hare with the big watch told them that Park & Hilbert could be first-liners and score enough is symbolic of this team's mushroom induced fantasy that they can compete. Even with Okposo (and I firmly believe he will never be more than a 15-20 goal scorer) and Comeau (he too, will never put more than 15-20 in the net) they just DO NOT HAVE ENOUGH TALENT. And all of you "Weight is putting up big numbers" need to take your heads out of your asses and realize that 90% of his points come with the man advantage. So unless teams are going to start playing with only 4 guys during the weight's shifts - he will continue to be largely unproductive during even strength.
We are closing in on the trading season - expect the Isles to be big time sellers of bodies and collectors of draft picks. You don't need a sixth sense and a swami hat to know that. The question is - which of the bodies will be sold.
Next up: Bring out your dead, bring out your dead! (who will be dealt)
MLD
