JDUBBS1280
MN Hockey Enthusiast
That's another topic entirely from what I was talking about, but I don't disagree with your point that Eaves goal first and foremost is to put together a lineup that produces wins at this level. But as John Calipari said, one of the best days in Kentucky basketball was when he had 5 guys go in the first round. Kids want to play for coaches that put players in the NHL, and Eaves track record in that department is second to none. So, I don't think it should be overlooked, but the goal is, and always will be to bring national championships to the University of Wisconsin first. I don't think Eaves has lost sight of that, yet. That said, I do think he's focused on bringing in more four year players.
I get all that. But how many NHL players has Jerry York "produced" in the past 10 years compared to Mike Eaves? And who has been more successful in the NCAA the past 10 years?
And I highlighted "produced" because I think a majority of the high-end talent that comes thru college hockey will succeed in the NHL regardless of who coaches them.
As nice as it is to see guys like Kyle Okposo, Phil Kessel, Erik Johnson, Nick Leddy, etc... doing well in the NHL, losing them after only a year (little more for Okposo) really hurt because it forced tDon to bring in guys before they were ready. Sound familiar?
I'll take Jerry York's approach any day.