So there is a new coaching staff in place, that in and of itself should mean that this training camp will be different than the last 4 or 5 training camps at least. Add to that that this is the GM's second year on the job. So now I wonder just how much the new coaching staffs opinions will affect the results of training camp and ultimately the opening day lineup?
Will Tambellini just keep the roster as is no matter the outcome of camp and the input of his coaches until he can make deals at his pace? Will he listen carefully to Quinn and Renney and do their bidding? I have to wonder what would be the result of some of the vets coasting in the preseason? It has been a yearly ritual here. Last year there was very little heart or desire shown in the preseason and while the consensus was that they'd "turn it on" come the start of the regular season, it just didn't happen.
I would like to see veterans told that if they aren't willing to bust their tails, someone else will and for cheaper. I want to see Ethan Moreau told that if he doesn't lead like a captain, he will be stripped of his C and his roster spot goes to Ryan Stone or JF Jacques. I want to see Staios told that if he wants to go through the motions that he can expect a ticket to Springfield while Theo Peckham takes his spot because he's full of piss and vinegar.
There could be a number of surprises at camp. Any number of Eberle, Schremp, Brule, Potulny, Stone, Peckham, etc. could come in and impress the new staff and "get in good" with Quinn and co. If this is the case and some vets look like they flat out don't give a damn about heading into the season with a new attitude, do we see some of those guys sent to the minors? Do we see Tambellini deal them for a bag of Smarties? Or do we see them on the team because the GM has preconceived notions of certain players?
As far as I'm concerned, the slate is clean for everyone, and everyone should be looking at this as an opportunity to return to the winning path. If Quinn and Renney really are in control, there could be a dressing down of players early in camp, and how they respond could very well determine their future with the club, and the future of their potential replacements.
That is the kind of competition and motivation that this team has lacked for the last umpteen training camps. Business as usual should be long gone come this camp, and every other camp from here on out.
