IO think that's also been his biggest problem, too
He wants so badly to be the stereotypically 'good teammate' that he passes up opportunities for glory to help the team--playing defense, checking tightly, passing the puck. that'll see him with a good long career,
You can't make someone be a cocky asshole unfortunately
Yeah, I agree. But IMO its more about confidence - which certainly could come with time / as the points hopefully start to come.
I think Kopitar's a great example. He's never been a cocky asshole - Yet is a hall of famer who's won 2 stanley cups and a number of other awards/trophies. Byfield can still end up being a great player even if he never ends up fitting that cocky asshole mold.
That said, also think we're starting to see more 'bite' from Byfield. It's been rare and definitely isn't really 'his game' but I'd point out a play from last night where Maroon and Danault were tangled up a bit while skating after the whistle and Byfield noticed and took exception and kinda started skating over like he was going to do something about it. There was a Wild forward who noticed and got in his way (believe it was Dewar) and the two got into a bit of a shoving/face washing match and created a bit of a scrum. It's not much of course, but you do see glimpses of that anger / "don't f**k with me or my teammates" mindset from time to time.
But you're right... Would love to see more of that "killer" / "I'm the best player on the ice" mindset
