Blashill’s Future in Detroit- By: Tyler Borchers
Photo Credit- octopusthrower.com
What do we do about the current bench boss? If you have read any previous articles on the matter or listen to the podcast, we are NOT big fans of Blashill for this rebuild. In previous rants, I have not been fair about Blashill's performance with the team since 2015. Now, don't get it twisted - I still think there are flaws to his coaching techniques, but I have come to realize the lack of talent he dealt with since joining the team. This season, however, is much different when it comes to having this conversation.
My vision is blurry because the team is doing relatively well. So, who earns the praise? the few players on the team that have found their groove again or the coach dealing with an improved roster? Both narratives seem to be floating around and I can honestly see both sides of it. The roster has been trending upward the past two seasons, so he has more to work with. On the other hand, guys like Bertuzzi and Larkin have been the focal point for the past seasons and have been the most consistent and dependable players - their performance hasn't changed (sure, one could argue for Larkin on the scoresheet, but that is a separate topic for another time).
Now the topic of Raymond and Seider will come up while discussing Blashill. Here is what you need to ask yourself when that is brought up: is the success of those two rookies solely because of the coaching from Jeff Blashill? Because I am not convinced that's the case. No one is surprised at how well Mo Seider has done so far this season - in fact, many watched him dominate the SHL and couldn't wait to see him do the same in the winged wheel. I will be the first to say that it has taken me by surprise that Raymond took off so quickly. Kudos to Blashill for playing him with the right people and getting him appropriate ice time. Although he's had a great season thus far under Blashill, he came in with an already incredible hockey sense and elite passing ability - Blashill is lucky to have him on the roster because he makes him look good (he can also thank Stevie Y for that).
If the Wings finish the season right at expectations (roughly 6-8 points outside of a playoff spot), will we see Blashill behind the bench again next season? I am interested to know what everyone else thinks. Make sure to reach out to us on Instagram @WingSauce, email us at michiganwingsauce@gmail.com, and our phone line at 616-287-2515 (voicemail.)
-Tyler Borchers- Wing Sauce/ Olde City Sports Network