Well I do have a different outlook on the game. I love watching, but I don't follow it the same way. The amount is less for sure, but the perspective is what has really changed. I no longer really look at players like I once did. That's killing my fantasy hockey angle, but that's ok. What I look at now is game situations and the strategies teams employ. I've always done this for football, but for hockey I was always just admiring players and getting fired up for my team.
I look for traps, and locks, and power play single and double motion. I look to see styles and what teams use. Many teams have certain breakout moves they use. Many teams employ a certain dump and chase method. The x's and o's interest me. The stars bore me. I don't identify with players like I once did...they are all interchangeable to me now.
I see these different things all of the time. However I don't understand and may never as to when they are called upon during a game. Unless I was a coach I probably just won't ever get it. I like when teams do adjustments in the middle of a game and the momentum shifts.
The Red Wings have a certain Babcock style that has evolved. It's relentless back checking, and there is this circular point movement they use. I've always felt the Red Wings were built for the playoffs. Yet whenever they lose, it has always been because they were not at full strength. Which ticks me off about sports in general, because I am a believer in systems not all stars. Yet if you lose a key guy, you are screwed. I think the Red Wings have a chance this year. There is something missing and I can't tell what it is. For the first time they have me duped as to what the problem is. It is not age or style. Chemistry and injury perhaps. All I know the energy is not there where it should be. I'm 50/50 if they can come out of the first round this year.
They give up the puck too much, and that is something you can't do in the playoffs...ever. Not with our goalie.
Go Wings.
No comments:
Post a Comment