ODAAT
Registered User
I don't think the myth is that grinders raise their game.
The belief is that the playoffs are tight checking where every puck is contested and grinders are more suited to that style of game.
I don't think it applies to star caliber players but if you're making a lineup and you have a choice between a Donato type, someone skilled but who loses all of his battles and a Wagner type, someone not nearly as skilled but who will win most of those battles, coach will choose the guy who wins the battles.
Great post, not sure you can teach a guy to play big, physical, it`s a state of mind and commitment is needed
Possibly not the greatest comp but Wheeler was absolutely Charmin soft when he was a Bruin and a few years after traded but now? While hardly a bruiser, he uses that big body when needed, something clicked within him, always had the offensive talent but he committed to playing with an edge that was non-existent while in a B`s uni