Juggling lines in hockey might be considered a sign of weakness.
If a coach mixes personnel, that consequence could be interpreted as declining value in one player or a set of players. Though substitution may not be permanent, the desire remains to find players who complement one another and create a lasting bond.
Not quite correct, said Phoenix center Mike Ribeiro.
Ribeiro stepped to the forefront in recent days and helped the Coyotes snap a two-game winless streak. His two goals against Detroit last Saturday night triggered a 5-2 win over the Red Wings and proved a permanent set of wingers may not be as important as most think.
When Ribeiro signed with the Coyotes over the recent offseason, coach Dave Tippett immediately placed the 33-year-old center with Mikkel Boedker on the left wing and captain Shane Doan on the right side.
Whether from restlessness or the need to spark an offense, Tippett juggled Ribeiro off what was considered the Coyotes’ No. 1 line.
The result was his first goal of the season against Ottawa on Oct. 15 and two more against the Red Wings on Oct. 19. That’s when Tippett replaced Doan with Dave Moss on th ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Mark Brown
Is Juggling Lines Causing More Harm or Good for the Phoenix Coyotes?
October 21st, 2013 by Mark Brown Leave a reply »
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