Last year, when the new Canucks management commented that they were dissatisfied with the lack of structure in the team's play, I didn't disagree with their assessment. I just didn't think it was fair to coach Boudreau to make it so public. (Criticize in private).
In retrospect, I wonder if this was an added angst for the players - that while they really liked and respected BB as a person, they were frustrated over his, and their own, inability to impart that needed structure.
I admit I was not impressed when they hired Tocchet. However, I can't deny seeing the overall improved defensive play. And, like BB did last year, he and the team are benefitting from the return of prime Demko. It's a small sample size, but I hope he and his staff can carry this over to next season, especially the impressive turnaround of JT Miller. All of the players seem more focused and disciplined.
And a thumbs up to Tocchet for giving credit to the coaching staff in Abby for the seamless way that the call-ups on defense are playing.
