In terms of a coaching change - I really want to give Adams the benefit of the doubt. Until the start of this season, I think that his coaching record stands up - he took over a tough (politically charged) situation in 06-07 and got us to the play off final. Last year he took us top of the league until injuries kicked in.
I just have a gut feeling that Adams would be a big loss to the club - especially in terms of his blunt 'will to win' attitude.
Also, not many people have come up with a feasible replacement for Adams. Seeing Lawless return would certainly have a fantastic feel good factor but, let's face it, he's been away from the British game for too long and is settled back in Canada. Steve Moria is another player that I loved, but he didn't exactly cover himself in glory at Basingstoke - and his Slough team is a little inconsistent at EPL level. In my opinion, Dave Whistle put together the most entertaining Devils team in recent times (04-05) but his lack of loyalty would leave a big question mark in my eyes. I'm not sure what the Ed Patterson situation is, but I believe that someone mentioned that he is successfully settled back in Canda.
However, (whilst accepting that there are probably 100 reasons that make it a 'non starter'!!) I would suggest that the perfect Devils 'dream team' would see Mike Blaidell tempted back to this country as head coach - with Adams as his assistant. An NHL forward and a gritty defenseman - both with 'win at any cost' attitudes. Ok, Blaisdell's last season at Nottingham wasn't fantastic - but that can be quickly passed over when looking at his previous coaching record. Would Adams be prepared to accept a demotion? Probably not in most cases, but him and Blaisdell are very close friends and maybe it might just be a prospect that excites him.
In terms of the playing front, I would offer the constuctive point that Hinks is probably the best passer on the team. Unfortunately, he goes hiding and loses so many puck battles that he very rarely has the puck on his stick to make a pass. For this reason alone he is the forward that needs to be cut in order that we can bring in a goalscorer.
Also, with the current roster it is pointless playing Silverthorn and Voth on the same line. They need to be split up in order to spread our scoring threat (what there is of it!!) over two lines. Prpich had a great start to the season (and is a good player) but he is a grinder and an aggitator first and foremost (as is Campbell).
Just a few thoughts.
John
I just have a gut feeling that Adams would be a big loss to the club - especially in terms of his blunt 'will to win' attitude.
Also, not many people have come up with a feasible replacement for Adams. Seeing Lawless return would certainly have a fantastic feel good factor but, let's face it, he's been away from the British game for too long and is settled back in Canada. Steve Moria is another player that I loved, but he didn't exactly cover himself in glory at Basingstoke - and his Slough team is a little inconsistent at EPL level. In my opinion, Dave Whistle put together the most entertaining Devils team in recent times (04-05) but his lack of loyalty would leave a big question mark in my eyes. I'm not sure what the Ed Patterson situation is, but I believe that someone mentioned that he is successfully settled back in Canda.
However, (whilst accepting that there are probably 100 reasons that make it a 'non starter'!!) I would suggest that the perfect Devils 'dream team' would see Mike Blaidell tempted back to this country as head coach - with Adams as his assistant. An NHL forward and a gritty defenseman - both with 'win at any cost' attitudes. Ok, Blaisdell's last season at Nottingham wasn't fantastic - but that can be quickly passed over when looking at his previous coaching record. Would Adams be prepared to accept a demotion? Probably not in most cases, but him and Blaisdell are very close friends and maybe it might just be a prospect that excites him.
In terms of the playing front, I would offer the constuctive point that Hinks is probably the best passer on the team. Unfortunately, he goes hiding and loses so many puck battles that he very rarely has the puck on his stick to make a pass. For this reason alone he is the forward that needs to be cut in order that we can bring in a goalscorer.
Also, with the current roster it is pointless playing Silverthorn and Voth on the same line. They need to be split up in order to spread our scoring threat (what there is of it!!) over two lines. Prpich had a great start to the season (and is a good player) but he is a grinder and an aggitator first and foremost (as is Campbell).
Just a few thoughts.
John
