“We just weren’t prepared to play the right way right from the get-go”
This isn't the first time we've heard this from Quinn, and it was no different after the bubble camp and play-in tourney. I have no idea what the pace has been in the practices and scrimmages (because the Rangers were one of the only teams to not provide a stream of them to their fans), but this is starting to become a trend.
If I recall correctly, it also happened after the newly established bye week the Rangers had season or two ago as well. I don't think Quinn is on the hot seat just yet - but that performance should definitely raise some eyebrows in the front office.
We all know this is a super young team, but Quinn himself said it's ok to make mistakes as long as they are the wrong ones. That they need to be more physical and a harder team to play against.
Yes, its one game - but I didn't see much of anything to suggest anything has changed in that regard and if you are a top coach it doesn't matter what average age your club is, you can motivate them to at least play a spirited game on opening night in your home barn.
Let's hope it was all nerves and after a few games things start to jell a little better. But the effort needs to increase. Passion needs to be displayed. Otherwise I will seriously start to doubt the effectiveness of this head coach.