Naurato is an elite offensive hockey mind, one of the very best. The offensive zone movement is NHL caliber along with an excellent powerplay. I'd continue to expect top level offense, almost regardless of roster.
The defense and goaltending is still unknown to me, but at least it seemed to get better at the end of the season?
I agree, it's not that simple. The position is too technical and different from the rest of the team to not have a dedicated goalie coach. I think it's likely Naurato identified the weakness, but was unable to correct it because of lack of experience with goalies.
His offense really improved this season. I thought he was consistently Michigan's best 200ft forward, and it seemed to translate to the Olympics. There's been a lot of talk that he's a 2C at best in the NHL and a low ceiling / high floor type draft pick. With his skating ability and work ethic I think he will surprise some people.
Great article. Thanks, Alex. One question, and maybe this shows up in the schedule preview, but can you add how many of these guys are likely to make WJC teams? Also how does that affect W/L projections?
I think this is from the 1960's - 70's USC teams. John McKay would run the "student body" play where the QB would continue down to block. Now the QB typically carries out fake instead of being involved in the blocking.
Recent Comments
I wonder how much goalie coaching would have helped Portillo last season?
Naurato is an elite offensive hockey mind, one of the very best. The offensive zone movement is NHL caliber along with an excellent powerplay. I'd continue to expect top level offense, almost regardless of roster.
The defense and goaltending is still unknown to me, but at least it seemed to get better at the end of the season?
Coach Nar is an elite offensive hockey mind and coach. If he can get the defense and the goalies going then watch out!
I agree, it's not that simple. The position is too technical and different from the rest of the team to not have a dedicated goalie coach. I think it's likely Naurato identified the weakness, but was unable to correct it because of lack of experience with goalies.
His offense really improved this season. I thought he was consistently Michigan's best 200ft forward, and it seemed to translate to the Olympics. There's been a lot of talk that he's a 2C at best in the NHL and a low ceiling / high floor type draft pick. With his skating ability and work ethic I think he will surprise some people.
Beecher looks great. Welcome back.
He's hurt, but I haven't seen anything on type of injury or timeline for return.
Also worth noting, they've been without a 1st round pick (Beecher) all season.
Great article. Thanks, Alex. One question, and maybe this shows up in the schedule preview, but can you add how many of these guys are likely to make WJC teams? Also how does that affect W/L projections?
I think this is from the 1960's - 70's USC teams. John McKay would run the "student body" play where the QB would continue down to block. Now the QB typically carries out fake instead of being involved in the blocking.