Wild GM Bill Guerin Discusses Team’s Slow Start with Captains
The Minnesota Wild are experiencing a challenging start to their season, as indicated by general manager Bill Guerin. The team has recorded just three wins out of ten games, resulting in significant concern regarding their performance. Guerin highlighted the seriousness of the situation, especially considering the team’s recent losses to the Utah Mammoth and the San Jose Sharks during a six-game homestand.
Bill Guerin Discusses the Team’s Slow Start
In a recent interview, Guerin emphasized the importance of getting off to a strong start. He stated that being behind early in the season might jeopardize playoff prospects later on. “If you fall too far behind or if you’re not solid at the beginning, you can really put yourself in a bad spot for the playoffs,” he warned.
Concerns and Solutions
Guerin held conversations with the team’s leadership, including captain Jared Spurgeon and Kirill Kaprizov, to discuss the team’s struggles. His approach was supportive, aiming to understand the concerns of the players. Guerin stated, “We can’t sit here and try to figure it out without talking to them.” This collaborative strategy indicates his desire for a united front to overcome slow performance.
- Current Record: 3 wins in 10 games
- Recent Losses: Utah Mammoth, San Jose Sharks
- Goals Against per Game: 3.9 (Ranking 30th in the NHL)
Player Performances and Challenges
Key players like Kirill Kaprizov have struggled, contributing to the team’s issues. Kaprizov described his gameplay as inconsistent, leading to critical turnovers that have cost the team. He expressed the need for improvement in their offensive play and decision-making on the ice.
Additionally, the team has faced challenges with younger players, who are making crucial mistakes that impact overall performance. Coach John Hynes is working to enhance player chemistry by adjusting line combinations, including pairing Spurgeon with other teammates to strengthen defensive play.
Future Outlook
As the Wild seek to rectify their start, there is speculation surrounding potential trades, especially with scouts present at recent games. However, Guerin noted that early-season trades are uncommon. He indicated a preference to assess the team’s performance further before making significant changes.
Despite the challenges, Guerin remains optimistic about the team’s ability to recover. “We know we’re capable of better than what we’re doing,” he said, urging players to maintain determination as they work towards improving their performance.
