Re: All Things Denver XXXI
I just think we're playing as a bunch of talented, selfish individuals. No gelling going on at all. If anything we've moved backwards since September. PP has gotten worse for sure. I do think we have the potential to have a Sioux like second half. I'm wondering about Dusty. He's been invisible. He needs to step up and get in and plant himself in front the net for tips and rebounds. I remember going to a captains practice on Labor Day and thinking Zucker was checked out--going through the motions and that Beau was super dialed in. That hasn't changed.
I wouldn't be surprised if CC smacks the crap out of us this weekend.
Sure hope you're wrong about Saturday's outcome.
Earlier this week I was thinking about DU Captains. Rhett Rakhshani and Kyle Ostrow.
> Rhett was a top line player with skills and talent. As Captain, we saw it over and over again, when DU needed a goal, he found a way to score. He was all over the ice and brought the rest of the team with him. Not only did he lead by example, but he became the example for the rest of the team. He had an infectious personality. He was the face of DU Hockey.
> Kyle was a good player and with Maiani and Martin made up a strong 2nd line. At least from afar didn't have the same sparkle that Rhett brought to the game. But when the C was sewn on his uniform something changed. When DU was down or struggling, he made his presence felt. His leadership was all the more evident when he couldn't play after surgery. Didn't have Rhett's skills, but had the Captain's mindset. He brought it every game.
Dusty Jackson and Drew Shore, two very different players. Both said they would lead by example when queried by Hyder in preseason interviews. Neither is short on dedication.
But I didn't see that "Rakhshani/Ostrow" factor in either interview.
> Dusty came back from a double whammy missing 14 or 15 months from a broken leg and mono. Came back a better skater and obviously committed to play. Used his big body more effectively in front of the net as well as giving the big hit. Haven't seen that this year. Granted he is on the 3rd line and may not get as many chances for a goal, but certainly he can give the big hit to energize the team.
> Drew has great skills and talent and when he's on the ice, which is a lot, his presence is felt. He gives 100%. He is setting an example for the rest of the team. The improvement between his 1st and 2nd year was nothing short of amazing. What is even more amazing is he is still on an upward trend. He is consistent, not flashy ala Zucker. You can count him every shift. He is a playmaker and a scorer.
My question: Who sets the tone for the team? Who leads in the locker room as well as on the ice?
