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Martin St-Louis Addresses Backlash Over Demidov's Ice Time Ahead of Tonight's Game
In recent games, several Montreal Canadiens fans have been discussing how Martin St-Louis manages ice time - especially with the team's current depth.
One thing is certain: the Canadiens have more players who can contribute than before.
That creates internal competition.
And it also brings tough choices behind the bench.
Martin St-Louis admitted it himself.
Martin St-Louis addresses Canadiens' ice time
At the press conference, he was very clear and very honest.
Here's what he said:
"I can do a better job managing ice time. It's the first time I'm coaching a team with this much depth. I need to do a better job with certain players to learn how to get them rolling. Sometimes I get caught up in matchups and penalties. As a coach, I can do better, and I'm working on that."
- MSL
- MSL
I love seeing him always so honest and hard on himself.
And that immediately opens the door to a topic many have already been following closely.
The ice time of certain young players.
In particular, Ivan Demidov and Zack Bolduc.
Demidov is playing great hockey and creating so much offensively.
Bolduc, on his side, keeps things simple, works hard, doesn't cheat, and is starting to find his footing.
Yet, here were the five least-used forwards last game:
Zack Bolduc: 9:11
Ivan Demidov: 10:27
Kirby Dach: 11:37
Oliver Kapanen: 12:11
Joe Veleno: 12:44
Ivan Demidov: 10:27
Kirby Dach: 11:37
Oliver Kapanen: 12:11
Joe Veleno: 12:44
These numbers don't tell the story of a bad performance.
They tell the story of a choice.
A choice of hierarchy within the game.
Personally, I believe both players are progressing really well and gradually earning a bigger role.
We'll see how St-Louis adjusts over the next few games.
Because with a deeper team, every minute counts.
And every decision can change the course of a game.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 8 | 914 ANSWERS Martin St-Louis Addresses Backlash Over Demidov's Ice Time Ahead of Tonight's Game Do you think Martin St-Louis is managing the players' ice time well right now? | ||
| Yes | 505 | 55.3 % |
| No | 132 | 14.4 % |
| Could be better | 277 | 30.3 % |
| List of polls | ||