When an NHL team starts performing below expectations one of the first scapegoats is the Head Coach. Sometimes deservedly and sometimes undeservedly that coach will be fired. With the Ottawa Senators losing seven straight that topic is starting to come up. However, it’s too soon to give Boucher the boot just yet.
A year and a half ago the Ottawa Senators fired Dave Cameron and were left without a head coach. Rumours swirled over who would be the head coach and it seemed like Bruce Boudreau would come to Ottawa. However, contract negotiations went south, and Boudreau ultimately signed with Minnesota. This left a sour taste in the mouth of Sens fans as they were excited to finally have a proven, high calibre coach. The Sens then opted to sign Guy Boucher who had just one prior head coaching job in the NHL.
A Phenomenal First Season
With Boucher joined the Ottawa Senators people didn’t know a lot about him. All they knew was that he played a defensive style that emulated the trap that resulted in some comical YouTube videos. However, as he worked with the Sens he quickly became beloved. He developed what is now known as “The System” and led the Sens to the playoffs. Then in the playoffs he helped the Sens defeat the Bruins, and the Rangers. In the Eastern Conference Final, he led the Sens to within one goal of Stanley Cup Final berth.
Don’t Give Up On Boucher Yet
Now with the Sens struggling there are many fans that are calling for his head. They want a change for immediate results. While it may be true in the short term, it would be a big negative in the long term. The Ottawa Senators will be better off in the long term with Boucher. Although we as fans might not agree with every decision he makes, no matter who the coach is that would be the case. Yes, he may lean on veterans a little too much and fail to recognize the strengths of rookies, but he has gotten the Sens this far. For that he’s earned more time to prove he’s more than a one trick pony.
Don’t Make Desperate Moves
Everyone is at fault for the Ottawa Senators current losing streak. From Karlsson, to Hoffman, to Anderson, to Boucher, they’re all under-performing. However, fans should remember that no move made in panic is a good move. Stay calm, stay the course, and later, reevaluate.