Good write up Craig. Without a doubt these guys need to step up if we are to have any chance this season. But I dunno, my pessimistic side must be coming out. Seems as we get closer, I'm seeing more of the deficiencies of the team in a tougher division. And still have no confidence in our coaching. Hope I'm wrong, but I feel we are closer to a big break up and restart under Armstrong than a perennial playoff contender.
Just a small curious question - why doesnt the rat pack include Garland? He definitely feels like part of the young core and maybe the one guy who is performing most to potential of those young guys. With that said, loved the article, and hoping to see some growth from all the players on this list! (especially having just purchased a Keller RR Yotes jersey)
I think a lot of these guys started really coming into their own right before the pause. Fischer in particular seemed to start to figure out what his role was and to embrace it. I get the feeling from him that he is one of those guys who played a different role growing up who has to figure out how to make it work in the NHL. Granted, I have a well-documented soft spot for him.
Spot on as always. I love the”rat” pack guys, (my favorites) and agree it is time for them all to shine. They all have the skill, and passion and love for the game to do so. Looking forward to this season, whatever it’s gonna look like.
I think one of the things that has continually hurt the Coyotes youngsters is that they've joined the team without a star forward to learn from. Imagine if Keller had a Patrick Kane to work with...
Out of the 6 members of the Rat Pack, I think only Schmaltz, Dvorak, and Crouse will survive in the the Armstrong administration. Dvorak and Crouse are hard nose, two-way players that fit Armstrong's mold. I think Schmaltz will improve his offensive production and stay around. I predict that Fischer and Keller won't ever be consistent enough for Armstrong and I expect Armstrong to beef up the blue line over the next couple of years so Chychrun may be moved. I hope I am wrong about the last 3 guys. It would be great for them all to succeed here in AZ!
Hope springs eternal, pre-season.
Good write up Craig. Without a doubt these guys need to step up if we are to have any chance this season. But I dunno, my pessimistic side must be coming out. Seems as we get closer, I'm seeing more of the deficiencies of the team in a tougher division. And still have no confidence in our coaching. Hope I'm wrong, but I feel we are closer to a big break up and restart under Armstrong than a perennial playoff contender.
Just a small curious question - why doesnt the rat pack include Garland? He definitely feels like part of the young core and maybe the one guy who is performing most to potential of those young guys. With that said, loved the article, and hoping to see some growth from all the players on this list! (especially having just purchased a Keller RR Yotes jersey)
I think a lot of these guys started really coming into their own right before the pause. Fischer in particular seemed to start to figure out what his role was and to embrace it. I get the feeling from him that he is one of those guys who played a different role growing up who has to figure out how to make it work in the NHL. Granted, I have a well-documented soft spot for him.
Spot on as always. I love the”rat” pack guys, (my favorites) and agree it is time for them all to shine. They all have the skill, and passion and love for the game to do so. Looking forward to this season, whatever it’s gonna look like.
I think one of the things that has continually hurt the Coyotes youngsters is that they've joined the team without a star forward to learn from. Imagine if Keller had a Patrick Kane to work with...
I'd buy that t- shirt!!😁
Out of the 6 members of the Rat Pack, I think only Schmaltz, Dvorak, and Crouse will survive in the the Armstrong administration. Dvorak and Crouse are hard nose, two-way players that fit Armstrong's mold. I think Schmaltz will improve his offensive production and stay around. I predict that Fischer and Keller won't ever be consistent enough for Armstrong and I expect Armstrong to beef up the blue line over the next couple of years so Chychrun may be moved. I hope I am wrong about the last 3 guys. It would be great for them all to succeed here in AZ!