@TSNSimmer: He got close with [Caps scout] Chris Patrick. Talked [h]is way in with Dick Patrick [Chris' father]. @JasonLaCanfora This is a sad day for @washcaps
Of course, on a personal level, his last direct knowledge of the man is likely ten years ago when Simpson was fired. But, yes, not exactly a quality you want associated with your GM in the past. Given ownership's past history of meddling you can't help but wonder if it's just fundamentally more of the same. Was he the best candidate merely because he knew what they wanted to hear?
Maybe MacLellan is a better pro evaluator. I don't know. I don't expect him to rock the boat, though, and I doubt Trotz alone is the answer. Will they at least allow Trotz to assemble his own assistant staff or is he the only improvement allowed?
They're ****ing lucky that Trotz coached their AHL team way back when I guess. Otherwise it would have been Mark French or someone else within their bubble.