Episode 26: It’s Time To Trotz

The Isles Faithful Podcast

It really IS time to Trotz.

We’ve talked a lot this season about what a coach like Barry Trotz brings to an organization, I’m sorry – to THIS organization (Still hard to wrap my head around at times), He’s the type of analytic thinker and teacher that gets his point across in ways that’s clear, as made evident by the great article from Arthur Staple yesterday on The Athletic (paywall).

But what does that mean for the New York Islanders? A lot.

The Isles have historically struggled at various junctures throughout the long NHL season, most times the let down occurs later in the year when the team begins to show signs of low stamina mentally and physically. This has all occurred even before a guy like Barry Trotz was part of the organization.

With injuries cropping up now to Cal Clutterbuck, Matt Martin, and most importantly Robin Lehner – coupled with some less than perfect offensive and defensive play, the onus is on the head coach to correct the problems he faces.

The good news is, he’s more than capable of this. He’s shown it everywhere he’s been a coach and at every level. He can squeeze every ounce of talent and great play from players for sure. In this episode I talk a little about what exactly needs to be done and also about the strangeness of the last few games.

This episode also talks about the inability to score on the power play, at even strength at times and the penalty kill. It goes into the defensive woes, goaltending and how struggling right now with the tightness of the Metropolitan Division is probably the worst time to struggle.

I also spend some time talking about the return of John Tavares and the Maple Leafs – especially the reaction by Isles fans, Leafs fans, the media and the City of Toronto. Amazing stuff.

This episode is a short one, but I plan on recording again this weekend – so stay tuned.

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