Will AV fix our offense? Most likely. Will he fix our powerplay? Most likely. Will he change the culture of the team? More than most likely. Will he keep his players on a tight enough leash to actually win? Less likely. From what I’ve read, he’s known to cater to players and have a long leash. I’m not saying he’s anything close to Boudreau or guys like Rex Ryan. But, there’s got to be a reason he couldn’t get the best out of his very solid Canucks team and get them out of the 2nd round except for one year.
In my debates about Vigneault vs. Ruff, people have brought up that Vigneault just had players underperform. “He would’ve done something if Luongo actually came to play.” some have said. But as I’ve seen, we’ve all agreed it’s the coaches job to get the best out of his players. Tortorella got fired because he couldn’t get the most out of Gaborik, Richards, and even Nash in the playoffs.
Will the Rangers now be more open? Yes. Will the Rangers now be more exciting? Most likely. Could he win? Yes. Do I personally think he will win with the Rangers? No. Do I hope I’m wrong? More than anything in the world. And all of this isn’t to say I hate Vigneault or am unwilling to even give him a chance. My skepticism about him is his playoff performances. So don’t expect to see me hating on him unless the Rangers are like 10 games under .500. But if the Rangers can’t get out of the 2nd round next year? You will definitely hear me say things like “this is what I was talking about”. I won’t be calling for his head after one year but if he can’t reach a Conference Final in his first 3 years, I’ll start calling for his job.
But with all this said, AV was one of two guys I believe gave the Rangers the best chance at going to a Stanley Cup Final that were available to be head coach. He was probably the best coach available. But New York is a different animal and I don’t know if he has the personality or mentality that it takes to win the big one in this town. Hopefully I’m wrong and good luck to you Alain.
chasethecool liked this
nyrangersnation-blog posted this