My reactions on today's press conference with new head coach: Ken Hitchcock
The Blues announced the firing of head coach Davis Payne late last night, and many fans are still in shock. Today, the Blues hosted a press conference with the new coach: Ken Hitchcock. These press conferences are something Blues fans are getting accustomed to as Hitchcock is the 4th coach in the past 6 years for the Blues.
Here are my thoughts on how Hitchcock presented himself in today's press conference...
There were some obvious things that jumped out at me immediately when i started listening to Hitchcock:
The first thing was that he was very confident. Hitchcock was asked how long it would take him to get the Power play fixed..
"One Practice, we'll get that fixed quick."
Defense, Defense, Defense....
It was well known that Ken Hitchcock is all about defense, and after listening to the press conference, it is confirmed.
"If you're going to win in the NHL right now, you've got to be a 200ft team, you've (team) got to play really, really fast defensively."
You've got to "protect the puck like crazy offensively"
While I like the defensive mindset, and I think it will be great for Halak, the team hasn't exactly turned it on offensively yet either. I guess we will see if "good defense creates offense"
Accountability....
This was just as much a theme as defense at today's press conference. Armstrong repeatedly said that its up to the players now to get it together, and he now holds them accountable.
Armstrong brought in a coach with a great resume, who's well prepared, and "is a winner" so there is no excuse for the Blues not to perform now and Armstrong spoke about that often.
why I "believe in" Hitchcock....
Hitchcock is very big on players playing to their potential, he provides a game plan and structures teams. The Blues have been lacking structure and the game plan has become very predictable.
It is very clear Hitchcock doesn't mess around, and he is a firm believer in his system
"I'm a big believer in a certain style of game...Ive seen it and I trust it"
Hopefully Hitchcock can mold this team as he has done others, and says he is capable of doing
"My strength is building teams, and building accountability within the framework of teams"
The Blues practiced with Hitchcock today and play their first game with him as coach tomorrow vs. the rival Blackhawks...should be fun