Strome actually killed it in the AHL and his production put him in a very elite cohort with guys like Couture. I did a lengthy post about it somewhere. The mistake was in giving him zero chance and support once he reached the NHL. They did not give him any games with consistent linemates or give him time to get up to speed. They didn't even tell him to buy a house because he'd be sticking around, which is something Chicago did. So it should have been no surprise when Strome went on to be an excellent 2C right away with another club.
I'm not worried about Hayton missing the AHL or anything of the sort. I'm worried about what the dumbasses behind the bench will do to him.
The Coyotes are starting to solve the first half of the talent equation by drafting guys in appropriate slots and generally avoiding massive mistakes. The second part is integrating them into the NHL roster. I have exactly zero faith Tocchet understands this aspect and he's not likely to change given he is in the final year of his contract and wants to win at all costs. BA has spoken on this directly, so I know he is watching this particular aspect of the club.
Something will give.
You have spurred my memory, and you are right about his misuse. I do recall desiring for him to get a better opportunity in the lineup here, and felt he showed promise in the briefest of moments when he did get some chances. After the trade, I remember feeling he was improperly played here which resulted in his value being lower on the trade front.
Despite all that, I do still think he needed help for him to gain the offensive zone, which Schmaltz can provide himself. I think that was more the logic behind the swap of those two. Chicago didn't need zone entries, we did.
Definitely have the same concerns with the team developing guys to their proper potential. I think Chayka did well enough at stocking the pipeline, and I hope Armstrong can maintain or exceed that. The coaching staff feels improved on that front, yet Tocchet at the lead hasn't shown it. Often the assistants are vital for Young guys development so I'm excited Stillman and Varady are here for fixing that part.
