Talent Shortfall Contributing to the Penguins’ Struggles
It goes without saying that Mike Sullivan doesn’t get a ton of love on our blog. While I think more highly of him than my esteemed colleague, Other Rick, I’ve had my issues with the Penguins’ coach as well, mostly over matters of personnel and style.
However, as I listened to him answer questions last night in the wake of our 4-3 home-ice loss to Florida, I felt for him. Even in the wake of a draining, disappointing defeat his answers were intelligent, well thought and introspective. No one cares more about winning…or takes it more personally when we don’t…than Sully. You can hear it in his voice.
It’s also obvious he and the coaching staff are trying their darndest to right a black-and-gold ship that’s been taking on water to tune of a deceptive 7-5-4 record since January 27. Specifically, he mentioned seeking out forward combinations that might click and provide some desperately needed secondary scoring.
It isn’t as though the players aren’t trying, either. Nobody gets to the NHL without a strong work ethic and a willingness to sacrifice for the good of the team.