Sutter Lays into Elias big time

From Saturday's Star Ledger
http://www.nj.com/devils/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/1193459918220890.xml&coll=1


"You know, at some point Patty's got to figure out what he wants to do -- what level of player does he want to be," Sutter said. "I thought he was working himself out of that (early season doldrums) there, because he had two or three games where he played well. And now his play's dropped off some.


Sutter was asked if he thought part of Elias' problem might be because the coach took the captain's "C" away from him during training camp.

"If that's part of the problem, then what was the problem in the past?" Sutter said. "How come he never played as well as he should have last year? I wasn't here, but he never had a great year last year, either (Elias led the team in scoring, but with a pedestrian 21 goals and 69 points). So what is the problem? He's got to get that figured out, what the problem is."

I really think it's a matter of time before Elias in moved. I don't know where and for who....but he didn't strike me as a Sutter guy and it's showing.

From Saturday's Star Ledger
http://www.nj.com/devils/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/1193459918220890.xml&coll=1

And here we go...

On the plus side, Marty had a great game against the Rangers so Sutter
couldn't pick on him.

That could be pretty much it for Elias.

Wonder if anyone still thinks Sutter is still an "average" Devils coach with
no input and zero job security. Looks like he's going to hatchet his way
to the team he wants.

:heart: Sutter.

Finally someone calling Elias out for his lack of work ethic.

Well Sutter can lay out on Elias all he wants, but let's face it, Elias is not the only problem on this team. I don't think it's really fair to call out the guy all the time like that.

Why doesn't he call out Gionta and Zubrus? Those two have been much worse than Elias IMO. Gionta just doesn't do anything out there, no one even mentions that.

Well Sutter can lay out on Elias all he wants, but let's face it, Elias is not the only problem on this team. I don't think it's really fair to call out the guy all the time like that.

Why doesn't he call out Gionta and Zubrus? Those two have been much worse than Elias IMO. Gionta just doesn't do anything out there, no one even mentions that.

He already did call out Gionta, do some research, it was in the Ledger not long ago. And trust me, it will be a matter of time before he turns his attention to that ******* lifeless rotting log called Zubrus!

This happens every year same old things. Yet Elias is always one of the top players on the team come April.............Team as whole needs to get its act together and start working off each other on the ice.

Great.

Another coach who uses the media to "motivate" players.

If Sutter has a problem with Patty, he should have some class and approach him like a man.

Maybe this kind of stuff will work or maybe it will blow up in his face, but in my eyes it makes him look inexperienced and doesn't give me a lot of faith in him.

Ooooooooooo snap!




/post

Great.

Another coach who uses the media to "motivate" players.

If Sutter has a problem with Patty, he should have some class and approach him like a man.

Maybe this kind of stuff will work or maybe it will blow up in his face, but in my eyes it makes him look inexperienced and doesn't give me a lot of faith in him.

ABSOLUTELY. I was completely shocked when I read this. Especially from a coach with all of 9 games of total "experience." While it's true Elias certainly needs to elevate his game, public humiliation is never the way to go. If he keeps this up, Sutter will lose the "respect" of the entire team faster than an Al Iafrate slapslot. KEEP IT IN THE ROOM SUTTER.

Great.

Another coach who uses the media to "motivate" players.

If Sutter has a problem with Patty, he should have some class and approach him like a man.

Maybe this kind of stuff will work or maybe it will blow up in his face, but in my eyes it makes him look inexperienced and doesn't give me a lot of faith in him.

Who said Sutter never approached him in person? How do you know what goes on behind the scenes? OH that's right you don't. Sutter is pretty vocal, I'm sure he has already had numerous talks with Patty among other players.

Everson (http://www.nypost.com/seven/10272007/sports/devils/elias_put_on_notice.htm) actually has some more extensive quotes from Sutter:

"At some point, Patty's got to figure it out, what he wants to do, what level of player does he want to be?" Sutter said before tonight's first home game against the Ottawa Senators. "I thought he was working himself out of it in the two games there where he played very well, and now his play has dropped off some. It's not because he doesn't care. He does care. He has to find a way to want to compete at his highest level every shift of every game.

"When he finds that, he's going to be fine, but that comes down to the individual and his desire to want to do that. Patrik Elias is a hell of hockey player when he's right, when he's playing like he can. But when he's not, he's a tough guy to play."
That really doesn't sound that bad. He's basically saying the same thing that he's been saying - your best players have to be your best players. It's not like he's saying Patty isn't skilled or that he doesn't care, but that he needs to step it up.

ABSOLUTELY. I was completely shocked when I read this. Especially from a coach with all of 9 games of total "experience." While it's true Elias certainly needs to elevate his game, public humiliation is never the way to go. If he keeps this up, Sutter will lose the "respect" of the entire team faster than an Al Iafrate slapslot. KEEP IT IN THE ROOM SUTTER.

If a player wants to be a crybaby and take it as public humiliation, so be it. For once, the Devils staff is not so top secret about what is going on in the organization and it's about time!

Deserves every second of it. He's tried benching, he's tried in private, he's tried every thing. Patrik, get your act together or get the **** out.

Sutter made his remarks after Elias had already spoken to the press, so the 31-year-old, 10-year veteran didn't get a chance to respond directly to his coach's specific remarks. But before Sutter even talked to the media, Elias had seemed somewhat testy when asked about the team's offensive production.

"We didn't score (in) one game. What are you talking about?" he said. "Before that, we scored three goals (in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Islanders Oct. 20); before that, we scored six goals (in a 6-5 overtime win over Atlanta Oct. 13)."

Elias ignored the fact the Devils have been shut out three times in nine games. But he conceded that 21 goals in nine games are not enough and he promised that eventually the team will score more. Asked what made him believe that, he replied, "I'm not going to tell you that. It's our secret." Then he ended the interview.
Man, wonder what he was so testy about. Problem with the wifey?

Deserves every second of it. He's tried benching, he's tried in private, he's tried every thing. Patrik, get your act together or get the **** out.

Well he has not tried a 4th line demotion for a few games. But I know what you are saying.

I also, have full faith Elias will turn things around and put up some points. But he deserves everybit of any discipline instilled on him by Sutter and the fans. His play has been totally and undeniably unacceptable.

Deserves every second of it. He's tried benching, he's tried in private, he's tried every thing. Patrik, get your act together or get the **** out.

That was uncalled for. if I was Elias I would feel the same since all of the fans are quick to turn on any player in heatbeat. This month is Elias I wonder who will be next month (I am calling for madden) :biglaugh:..................ATM the momemt I remain neutral being that its only one month in to the season :shakehead:..............Maybe ELias is under the weather because it doesnt take much after what happen. He will get his act together soon enough.

That was uncalled for. if I was Elias I would feel the same since all of the fans are quick to turn on any player in heatbeat. This month is Elias I wonder who will be next month (I am calling for madden) :biglaugh:..................ATM the momemt I remain neutral being that its only one month in to the season :shakehead:..............Maybe ELias is under the weather because it doesnt take much after what happen. He will get his act together soon enough.

Nobody is writing of Patrik Elias. He is one of the most loved players on the team.

Do you think his play should go unmentioned? He should be allowed to underachieve?

Patrik Elias is not doing his job. He needs to step it up. Anybody who cannot come to terms with that is living in denial. I hope Sutter had smoke coming out of his ears and his eyes were bulging out of his head.

Nobody is writing of Patrik Elias. He is one of the most loved players on the team.

Do you think his play should go unmentioned? He should be allowed to underachieve?



What does that have to do with the cowardly way Sutter is using the media?

What does that have to do with the cowardly way Sutter is using the media?

This is to fun of a day we are all anticipating to get into a debate, but I really do not know what you are getting out. Sutter was mentioning to the media what the fans and Elias already know. I as a fan would be SHOCKED if I heard nothing mentioned from Sutter about Elias play. The Media, love them or hate them is the primary souurce of information. I am glad I was informed that Sutter is laying it into Elias. It has nothing to do with Sutter cowardly using the media.

Let's all remember that this isn't just a 9 game problem. It seems it started once he signed the big contract. How do you get this guy motivated? No tears for Elias from me.

Wasn't as bad as I expected it to be. I still have hope for Elias. I really think he just needs to play a more simple game. He needs to be a more north/south player and head to the net more. Also, NO and I mean NO MORE drop passes!

This is to fun of a day we are all anticipating to get into a debate, but I really do not know what you are getting out. Sutter was mentioning to the media what the fans and Elias already know. I as a fan would be SHOCKED if I heard nothing mentioned from Sutter about Elias play. The Media, love them or hate them is the primary souurce of information. I am glad I was informed that Sutter is laying it into Elias. It has nothing to do with Sutter cowardly using the media.

It's never a bad day to debate!

Why would you be shocked if the coach publically supported his players?

His job is to win games and have every player performing his best - not informing you every time a player isn't doing what he wants.

If he's already frustrated to the point where he's selling out his players to the media, he isn't cut out to be a professional coach.

Good - I'm glad Sutter is calling Elias out. Patty and Marty are our best players & have to play like it if this team wants to get anywhere. Elias has underperformed for over a year now and deserves to get called out given his lack of consistency & effort in some games. I don't want to see him get moved, but something's gotta light a fire under his ass.

That was uncalled for. if I was Elias I would feel the same since all of the fans are quick to turn on any player in heatbeat. This month is Elias I wonder who will be next month (I am calling for madden) :biglaugh:..................ATM the momemt I remain neutral being that its only one month in to the season :shakehead:..............Maybe ELias is under the weather because it doesnt take much after what happen. He will get his act together soon enough.

I love Patrik, it kills me to want him gone if he doesn't get his act together, the problem *I* have isn't that the team has put money into Patrik, but *I* have put money into Patrik, I have an authentic jersey, spent 300, hockey cards over 300, and other paraphernalia so I've spent around a 1000 on Patrik Elias and I'm a poor student who can't really afford it, so....I have every right to be pissed off about his play because I have spent the cash money on him.

What does that have to do with the cowardly way Sutter is using the media?

He's not you chode, he is a stand up guy who will pull a player right out of an interview (see Arron Asham) to lecture them about their play. Sorry to break it to you, we have a coach who doesn't live in fear of what LL might think or do about his every move. Get used to it.

It's never a bad day to debate!

Why would you be shocked if the coach publically supported his players?

His job is to win games and have every player performing his best - not informing you every time a player isn't doing what he wants.

If he's already frustrated to the point where he's selling out his players to the media, he isn't cut out to be a professional coach.



Sutter calls it like it is. He holds players accountable and we knew that about him coming into the season. It is like saying Sutter should not have publicly stated that travelling is no excuse and players travel and that is what they do.

If someone in the media asks Sutter about how he feels about Elias' play as of late what is he supposed to say? He is happy with him?

GOOD! Sutter is doing the right thing here when it comes to Elias. Sutter also needs to do this to some other players like Gionta and Zubrus. Maybe this will light a spark under Elias' ass for tonight's Home opener at the Rock.

GOOD! Sutter is doing the right thing here when it comes to Elias. Sutter also needs to do this to some other players like Gionta and Zubrus. Maybe this will light a spark under Elias' ass for tonight's Home opener at the Rock.

He has with Gionta, but Zubrus should be next. With some forthcoming changes, this team should be VERY, VERY good.

I love Patrik, it kills me to want him gone if he doesn't get his act together, the problem *I* have isn't that the team has put money into Patrik, but *I* have put money into Patrik, I have an authentic jersey, spent 300, hockey cards over 300, and other paraphernalia so I've spent around a 1000 on Patrik Elias and I'm a poor student who can't really afford it, so....I have every right to be pissed off about his play because I have spent the cash money on him.

LOL ok...... He is still worth every penny you put into him. I honesty think him geting sick like he did not to long ago is still playing a big roll. Even though no one wants to come out and say it from the organization.

Sutter calls it like it is. He holds players accountable and we knew that about him coming into the season. It is like saying Sutter should not have publicly stated that travelling is no excuse and players travel and that is what they do.

If someone in the media asks Sutter about how he feels about Elias' play as of late what is he supposed to say? He is happy with him?

He should support his player and give the media nothing.

If he wants to criticize someone for the team's performance, he should point the finger at himself for not getting the most out of his team. (Whether that's the case or not.)

Making you feel better by throwing Elias under the bus won't win the Devils one game.

He should support his player and give the media nothing.

If he wants to criticize someone for the team's performance, he should point the finger at himself for not getting the most out of his team. (Whether that's the case or not.)

Making you feel better by throwing Elias under the bus won't win the Devils one game.

I guess we will agree to disagree.

Elias is not living up to expectations, the organization is investiga a lot of money in him, he is relied on to produce offensively. He has not. It is no secret. I for one would think there is something very wrong if Sutter did NOT say that.

LOL ok...... He is still worth every penny you put into him. I honesty think him geting sick like he did not to long ago is still playing a big roll. Even though no one wants to come out and say it from the organization.

Elias looked the best he ever has at any period of time when he returned from his illness.

And no he is not worth every penny the Devils put into him. Not even remotely close. Elias is playing like a $2 million player right now. Jay Pandolfo is worth every penny put in him.


Elias got a pass last season because everyone has a bad year. I equated last season to the one Iginla had for Calgary the first year back from the lockout. It happens.


Now is the time for Elias to bounce back and be the player he has shown over time he is. If not he gets called out and deservedly so.


And Sutter would hold himself accountable as well. He always has and always will. But he is not the one wearing #26 on the ice.

Interesting headline to wake up to for the arena opener against the conference leaders.

Welcome home and wake up Patty.

I think Elias is going to breakout tonight with 2 goals and 1 or 2 assists. I think he will be fired up. If he does will anyone still think Sutter was wrong for the way he addressed the situation?

I think Elias is going to breakout tonight with 2 goals and 1 or 2 assists. I think he will be fired up. If he does will anyone still think Sutter was wrong for the way he addressed the situation?

Yes.

But Sutter is new at this so as long as he learns from his mistakes I'm sure it will be fine.

If Elias scores two goals tonight, it won't be because of Sutter's big mouth.

Yes.

But Sutter is new at this so as long as he learns from his mistakes I'm sure it will be fine.

If Elias scores two goals tonight, it won't be because of Sutter's big mouth.

Let me ask you and anyone else who feels the same way you do a question.

Are you telling me if Sutter said he is happy with Patrik Elias performance this season, has full confidence in him and anything that he needs to tweak to get even better, wouldn't that leave even more of a sour taste in your mouth? It sure would for me.

Let me ask you and anyone else who feels the same way you do a question.

Are you telling me if Sutter said he is happy with Patrik Elias performance this season, has full confidence in him and anything that he needs to tweak to get even better, wouldn't that leave even more of a sour taste in your mouth? It sure would for me.

Who said he has to say all that??

I just want him to conduct himself with some class and deal with the team's problems in a more effective way.

He looks foolish shooting his mouth off after nine games of NHL coaching experience.

It gives the impression that he doesn't know what he's doing.

Who said he has to say all that??

I just want him to conduct himself with some class and deal with the team's problems in a more effective way.

He looks foolish shooting his mouth off after nine games of NHL coaching experience.

It gives the impression that he doesn't know what he's doing.

The problem with this team right now or at minimum a big part of it is the lack of production from big player like Gionta, Zubrus and Elias. The PK as well.

He does not look foolish by any means. And it does not look like he does not know what he is doing. He is challenging Elias to step it up by calling him out. That was his intentions and I agree with it.

What is strange is how Elias has been struggling for the last past two years plus maybe some due to his illness, but it makes you wonder if Lou should have traded Elias instead of Sykora who has been healthy and scoring goals at a consistant basis year in and year out.:dunno: Sykora has still put up the numbers in Anaheim, Edmonton and now in Pittsburgh. It would be nice to get Sykora back here in NJ, but just won't happen. He will just torment the Devils when they play Pittsburgh 8 times in a season. Elias has not been the player he was when Sykora and Arnott left.

What is strange is how Elias has been struggling for the last past two years plus maybe some due to his illness, but it makes you wonder if Lou should have traded Elias instead of Sykora who has been healthy and scoring goals at a consistant basis year in and year out.:dunno: Sykora has still put up the numbers in Anaheim, Edmonton and now in Pittsburgh. It would be nice to get Sykora back here in NJ, but just won't happen. He will just torment the Devils when they play Pittsburgh 8 times in a season. Elias has not been the player he was when Sykora and Arnott left.

Well this I disagree with. Sykora does not bring to the table what Elias does. this is when the argument is valid that the other things Elias does is more important then what someone like Sykora can do.

The problem with this team right now or at minimum a big part of it is the lack of production from big player like Gionta, Zubrus and Elias. The PK as well.

He does not look foolish by any means. And it does not look like he does not know what he is doing. He is challenging Elias to step it up by calling him out. That was his intentions and I agree with it.

It's lazy leadership.

To me, he looks like a clown.

Here is one of the happiest, greatest days in the history of the franchise, and I wake up to see the Head Coach - who has accomplished nothing as an NHL coach - trashing his franchise player.

This is the end sum of this guy's coaching ability? Wait nine games, make a bunch of summary judgements that any fan can make and start throwing his players to the wolves?

His job is to win games and have every player performing his best - not informing you every time a player isn't doing what he wants.

If he's already frustrated to the point where he's selling out his players to the media, he isn't cut out to be a professional coach.

I wouldnt go so far as to say he isnt cut out to be a coach, I wouldnt go that far, however, he certainly has broken the unwritten rule of going to the media. It's one thing to say something like, "Marty needs to be better" like he said last week, it's quite another to say some of the quotes today about Elias. In hockey circles, people will be saying Sutter went to far with these quotes today.

What is strange is how Elias has been struggling for the last past two years plus maybe some due to his illness, but it makes you wonder if Lou should have traded Elias instead of Sykora who has been healthy and scoring goals at a consistant basis year in and year out.:dunno: Sykora has still put up the numbers in Anaheim, Edmonton and now in Pittsburgh. It would be nice to get Sykora back here in NJ, but just won't happen. He will just torment the Devils when they play Pittsburgh 8 times in a season. Elias has not been the player he was when Sykora and Arnott left.

Your love for Sykora blinds you. He has not been any better points wise than Elias. Sure Elias isn't scoring 80+ points, but he scored almost 40 the year before the lockout, contracted hepatitis, then scored 16 goals in like 40 games after he came back from Hep. This thing he's got going on now is new. It happened after Julien was named coach, till today. Some days he shows flashes of brilliance that reminds us of a time NOT that long ago. There is no way talent just disappears in a year.......not a chance. Sykora on the other hand is a baby, and just how did he torment the Devils the last game we played Pittsburgh? How many points did he have? Oh right, 0 and he tried to cheat and was robbed by Marty anyways.

It's lazy leadership.

To me, he looks like a clown.

Here is one of the happiest, greatest days in the history of the franchise, and I wake up to see the Head Coach - who has accomplished nothing as an NHL coach - trashing his franchise player.

This is the end sum of this guy's coaching ability? Wait nine games, make a bunch of summary judgements that any fan can make and start throwing his players to the wolves?

He also mentioned that this a continuation of underachieving performance from last season. This is just what the team needs to light some fie under the ass of a player that many feel should still be Captain of the team.

If Elias has a hat trick tonight you will be praising Sutter and Elias response to Sutter calling him out. And if not then you are not giving credit where credit is due

He also mentioned that this a continuation of underachieving performance from last season. This is just what the team needs to light some fie under the ass of a player that many feel should still be Captain of the team.

If Elias has a hat trick tonight you will be praising Sutter and Elias response to Sutter calling him out. And if not then you are not giving credit where credit is due

Right.

The media, and apparently you, will praise Sutter for Elias' performance.

That's a great way to motivate a player. Make it look like you are responsible for his successes.

Even if this cheap tactic works, it is still counterproductive.

Hopefully this is just inexperience and he will choose his words more carefully in the future.

Great.

Another coach who uses the media to "motivate" players.

If Sutter has a problem with Patty, he should have some class and approach him like a man.

Maybe this kind of stuff will work or maybe it will blow up in his face, but in my eyes it makes him look inexperienced and doesn't give me a lot of faith in him.

Yeah, I'm not exactly happy about the whole calling out in the press thing. I mean, Elias has to pick up his game and all, yeah, but I don't like using the newspapers as a team motivation. It strikes me as a bit too Totorella-ish....

It's lazy leadership.

To me, he looks like a clown.

Here is one of the happiest, greatest days in the history of the franchise, and I wake up to see the Head Coach - who has accomplished nothing as an NHL coach - trashing his franchise player.

This is the end sum of this guy's coaching ability? Wait nine games, make a bunch of summary judgements that any fan can make and start throwing his players to the wolves?

He trashed the franchise player? Really? I didn't know he said anything about Marty.

The other problem I have is that you fickle fans have short term memory loss. In 2002-03 Pat Burns called out two players. Scott Gomez and......................PATRIK ELIAS. Yet you jokers love Pat Burns as if he's god, Brent Sutter who's a very, very accomplished man is trying to light the same fire under his troops and now he's desecrating the franchise?? Players listen to Brent because he's won Cups, he's had success at various levels and is an intense guy. If Scott Stevens walked in as head coach, did the same thing none of you would flinch because it's Scott Stevens......never mind that he never accomplished a damn thing as a coach either. Brent Sutter has been in the trenches, and fought the battles, much more than you, me, Devsfan8, or anyone else here. He wouldn't be our coach today if Lou didn't have utter faith in him. You guys are being a baby for Elias being called out and all Sutter really said was "I need you to get going, because we want to be in the playoffs and compete for the Cup, so act like a captain and take charge"

If Elias has a hat trick tonight you will be praising Sutter and Elias response to Sutter calling him out. And if not then you are not giving credit where credit is due

Absolutely not. I would say that by law of averages he was due for a good game like he had againt Atlanta. It wouldnt change my opinion that it was a completely classless act by Sutter.

Yeah, I'm not exactly happy about the whole calling out in the press thing. I mean, Elias has to pick up his game and all, yeah, but I don't like using the newspapers as a team motivation. It strikes me as a bit too Totorella-ish....


Right, but what matters here isnt how it "strike" you or I, or anyone else on this message board. What matters is what people who play and work in this game professionally will think, and to that point this reflects really, really poorly on Sutter. Those comments went Wayyyy over the line of what's considered acceptable.

Elias sucks. HE could not score in a womans prison. David Maley and Brent Severyn are better. He is a disgrace to the team. He should just retire.


If Sutter said that above then that is a little bitter and disrespectful.

But currently Elias is not playing as well as he could. And it is a SIGN OF RESPECT towards Elias for Sutter to say that. Because he knows what he is capable of. That is what I got out of it.

He trashed the franchise player? Really? I didn't know he said anything about Marty.

The other problem I have is that you fickle fans have short term memory loss. In 2002-03 Pat Burns called out two players. Scott Gomez and......................PATRIK ELIAS. Yet you jokers love Pat Burns as if he's god, Brent Sutter who's a very, very accomplished man is trying to light the same fire under his troops and now he's desecrating the franchise?? Players listen to Brent because he's won Cups, he's had success at various levels and is an intense guy. If Scott Stevens walked in as head coach, did the same thing none of you would flinch because it's Scott Stevens......never mind that he never accomplished a damn thing as a coach either. Brent Sutter has been in the trenches, and fought the battles, much more than you, me, Devsfan8, or anyone else here. He wouldn't be our coach today if Lou didn't have utter faith in him. You guys are being a baby for Elias being called out and all Sutter really said was "I need you to get going, because we want to be in the playoffs and compete for the Cup, so act like a captain and take charge"

If Scott Stevens did this I would say exactly the same thing.

You are confusing Sutter's message (which is accurate) with his method of delivering it (which is idiotic).

I'm actually surprised Sutter has chosen to act like a fool. I'm sure if he were the player in this situation he would be furious about it.

And calling a player making $7M a franchise player isn't much of a stretch.

Yes.

But Sutter is new at this so as long as he learns from his mistakes I'm sure it will be fine.

If Elias scores two goals tonight, it won't be because of Sutter's big mouth.

Just because you think it's a mistake doesn't make it a mistake, Elias is a big boy and if he can't take a little heat from his head coach then we have bigger problems here.

Just because you think it's a mistake doesn't make it a mistake, Elias is a big boy and if he can't take a little heat from his head coach then we have bigger problems here.

Exacatictly.

He trashed the franchise player? Really? I didn't know he said anything about Marty.

The other problem I have is that you fickle fans have short term memory loss. In 2002-03 Pat Burns called out two players. Scott Gomez and......................PATRIK ELIAS. Yet you jokers love Pat Burns as if he's god, Brent Sutter who's a very, very accomplished man is trying to light the same fire under his troops and now he's desecrating the franchise?? Players listen to Brent because he's won Cups, he's had success at various levels and is an intense guy. If Scott Stevens walked in as head coach, did the same thing none of you would flinch because it's Scott Stevens......never mind that he never accomplished a damn thing as a coach either. Brent Sutter has been in the trenches, and fought the battles, much more than you, me, Devsfan8, or anyone else here. He wouldn't be our coach today if Lou didn't have utter faith in him. You guys are being a baby for Elias being called out and all Sutter really said was "I need you to get going, because we want to be in the playoffs and compete for the Cup, so act like a captain and take charge"

You and I live relatively the same area, could you imagine the heat Elias would be getting over the past two seasons from the media here? It's about damn time he felt the pressure. Elias is the difference maker on this team, if he has an off night, we likely won't win and vice versa.

I've always liked Elias, but I have been critical of him ever since he got that contract/captaincy. You just can't make that kind of money and do nothing. I never saw him as captain material - Madden was/is. I certainly don't want him traded (he's not even worth trading right now anyways) but Sutter needs to put the pressure on him and I'm glad he did.

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.

Elias sucks. HE could not score in a womans prison. David Maley and Brent Severyn are better. He is a disgrace to the team. He should just retire.

Ouch that's cold.. They have ice rinks in women's prisons? ;)

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.

When things go south, blame the coach. Some people here are really scared of change. Sutter was brought in to be a cornerstone of this franchise, like Marty is and Elias is supposed to be.

I don't think Sutter did anything to disrespect elias , elias is doing everything to disrespect elias.
It has never been about the individual on this franchise only the team. If elias doesn't want to give 100% every shift then he needs to find a new team.

You are confusing Sutter's message (which is accurate) with his method of delivering it (which is idiotic).



Well said. This is the perfect way to sum it up in one sentence, and I agree with you 100%.

I think I'll tevo Hockey Night in Canada tonight as I guantee the Hot Stove will be talking about this, and while everbody is a Sutter-family lover, I think he'll take some criticism for this.

he is a stand up guy who will pull a player right out of an interview (see Arron Asham) to lecture them about their play. Sorry to break it to you, we have a coach who doesn't live in fear of what LL might think or do about his every move. Get used to it.

That's a big plus in my book. If we want a team with attitude, we better have a coach with one.

Just because you think it's a mistake doesn't make it a mistake, Elias is a big boy and if he can't take a little heat from his head coach then we have bigger problems here.

LOL. Ad hominem instead of actual discussion. Nice.


I am pretty sure Elias has thick enough skin to withstand his coach's lack of leadership.

You and I live relatively the same area, could you imagine the heat Elias would be getting over the past two seasons from the media here? It's about damn time he felt the pressure. Elias is the difference maker on this team, if he has an off night, we likely won't win and vice versa.

I've always liked Elias, but I have been critical of him ever since he got that contract/captaincy. You just can't make that kind of money and do nothing. I never saw him as captain material - Madden was/is. I certainly don't want him traded (he's not even worth trading right now anyways) but Sutter needs to put the pressure on him and I'm glad he did.

yeah, you and I, we get it. Imagine a world where Mats Sundin was getting paid 5 million and not being one of the top scorers in the league? Media in Toronto would just rip his head off, look at what McCabe is getting for his follies. Patrik is SO lucky he's in New Jersey and not Toronto. He'd probably cry and go back to the Czech republic.

Well said. This is the perfect way to sum it up in one sentence, and I agree with you 100%.

I think I'll tevo Hockey Night in Canada tonight as I guantee the Hot Stove will be talking about this, and while everbody is a Sutter-family lover, I think he'll take some criticism for this.

Explain exactly how it was idiotic for a Head Coach to call out his best player? Because he does it through the media? Big deal man, coaches have been using this tactic and succeeding with it for years now, if not decades. Get over it.

Explain exactly how it was idiotic for a Head Coach to call out his best player? Because he does it through the media? Big deal man, coaches have been using this tactic and succeeding with it for years now, if not decades. Get over it.

I'd prefer the word classless over idiotic.

Sutter needs to put the pressure on him and I'm glad he did.

So Sutter wasn't putting any pressure on him until yesterday?

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.
Seriously. And do you remember how happy people were over the summer when we got him?
That's a big plus in my book. If we want a team with attitude, we better have a coach with one.
Exactly. This team has been working over coaches for far too long. It's about time that we get one who can take it to them.

As much as I love Elias, I'm glad Sutter said this. He's not playing up to his potential, and it's hurting the team. He's said it himself, he sucks right now, but he doesn't seem to be doing anything about it, consistantly. Hopefully this will spark him, if not, I don't know what they can do to get him going.

LOL. Ad hominem instead of actual discussion. Nice.


I am pretty sure Elias has thick enough skin to withstand his coach's lack of leadership.

Ad homonym, I don't think so, but nice try in a fail attempt to distract from you wrong point of view here, and it's laughable that you think a Sutter -of all people - lacks leadership.

You really know nothing about the man do you? Myself, I saw him break into the league in his rookie season.

I'd prefer the word classless over idiotic.

Ok then, how exactly is this classless?

Explain exactly how it was idiotic for a Head Coach to call out his best player? Because he does it through the media? Big deal man, coaches have been using this tactic and succeeding with it for years now, if not decades. Get over it.

Really? Give me an example of when this worked.

Maybe it appeared to work to you because there was short-term success, but that's the design of it. It makes the coach look good at the expense of his players.

This guy has been the coach for nine games. He's already resorting to desperate tactics.

It looks amaturish - like he's frustrated and doesn't have any training in how to manage people so he just lashes out.

A lot of former players act this way when they haven't put in the time to learn how to coach.

Ok then, how exactly is this classless?

I already wrote exactly how it's classless if you want to go back a page or 2. I'll just leave it at some of us agree with what Sutter did and some of us dont agree with what Sutter did (or perhaps more accurately, the level to which he did it). It will be very interesting, however, to see what is written/said about this matter by those who have lived their lives in this game. My guess? Sutter takes heat for going too far.

Really? Give me an example of when this worked.

Maybe it appeared to work to you because there was short-term success, but that's the design of it. It makes the coach look good at the expense of his players.

This guy has been the coach for nine games. He's already resorting to desperate tactics.

It looks amaturish - like he's frustrated and doesn't have any training in how to manage people so he just lashes out.

A lot of former players act this way when they haven't put in the time to learn how to coach.

After the game 4 press conference in the 2000 ECF when the Devils went down 3-1 against the Flyers, not only did Larry rip the team to their faces in the locker room but he also ripped them during the press conference. HE said the players need to get through their "thick heads" that the coaches know what they are doing and if they do not listen then they will not win. That is actually worse then Sutters remark!!!

The Devils players loved his attitude, it fired them up. They won the series then the Cup.

That is one example you asked for.

So Sutter wasn't putting any pressure on him until yesterday?

Of course he was, but did it work? The next step is to call him out publicly. Elias is accountable to the fans as well, they pay his salary and his salary (and lack of play) is affecting the team that those same fans are paying a king's ransom to go see. As DF said, Elias is lucky to be in a market that is very patient with his prolonged slump.

It looks amaturish

It looks like a coach doing his job. It looks like he respects Elias to the point he is challenging him to step up.

Amateurish would be not having an attitude about the situation one way or another.

Really? Give me an example of when this worked.

Uh, I believe someone did earlier in this thread, care to look back? It's DF's response to you.


Maybe it appeared to work to you because there was short-term success, but that's the design of it. It makes the coach look good at the expense of his players.

This guy has been the coach for nine games. He's already resorting to desperate tactics.

It looks amaturish - like he's frustrated and doesn't have any training in how to manage people so he just lashes out.

A lot of former players act this way when they haven't put in the time to learn how to coach.

Wow, this and especially the last sentence just reaffirms my suspicions you know nothing about Brent Sutter.

I already wrote exactly how it's classless if you want to go back a page or 2. I'll just leave it at some of us agree with what Sutter did and some of us dont agree with what Sutter did (or perhaps more accurately, the level to which he did it). It will be very interesting, however, to see what is written/said about this matter by those who have lived their lives in this game. My guess? Sutter takes heat for going too far.


Nothing will be said about Sutters comments.

Tomorrow Elias will quote in the papers how he accepted Sutters challenge in his own words and he needed that kick in the ass.

HE said the players need to get through their "thick heads" that the coaches know what they are doing and if they do not listen then they will not win.

Players = 20
XYZ Player =1

He said "players" as you pointed out. "Players" represents a "team" of 20 on the ice. This is acceptable, as it is in fact a "team" game. Big difference.

It will be very interesting, however, to see what is written/said about this matter by those who have lived their lives in this game. My guess? Sutter takes heat for going too far.

Too far? Calling players out in the media is commonplace in professional sports. This is too far:

http://www.torontosun.com/FrontPage/2007/10/17/4583331.html

I doubt you will ever see the cover of a New Jersey newspaper with Elias on it and a headline like that.

Nothing will be said about Sutters comments.


Disagree.


Tomorrow Elias will quote in the papers how he accepted Sutters challenge in his own words and he needed that kick in the ass.

Agree.

After the game 4 press conference in the 2000 ECF when the Devils went down 3-1 against the Flyers, not only did Larry rip the team to their faces in the locker room but he also ripped them during the press conference. HE said the players need to get through their "thick heads" that the coaches know what they are doing and if they do not listen then they will not win. That is actually worse then Sutters remark!!!

The Devils players loved his attitude, it fired them up. They won the series then the Cup.

That is one example you asked for.

He didn't call out one player, he called out the whole team. That's different.

And that was a time when desperation was certainly called for.

Also, Larry Robinson is a nice man who let his leaders dictate the tone while he stood back and gave them the room they earned.

He isn't interested in being a disciplinarian, so when that was called for he simply soured on the job and had to be replaced.

Sutter obviously has a vision for what he wants, and I think it's good that he's very firm with that vision and doesn't care what the fans or media think of his decisions.

But his tactic of publicly trashing Elias makes him look like a hothead and hurts his credibility.

I already wrote exactly how it's classless if you want to go back a page or 2. I'll just leave it at some of us agree with what Sutter did and some of us dont agree with what Sutter did (or perhaps more accurately, the level to which he did it). It will be very interesting, however, to see what is written/said about this matter by those who have lived their lives in this game. My guess? Sutter takes heat for going too far.

:biglaugh:

Sorry man, but this is not Pee Wees, alright? It's the NHL and all Sutter is doing is testing Elias resolve, because quite frankly it needs to be tested.

And I also think Elias will respond.

And BTW, you never did explain how it was classless, I'm sure you think you did, but you didn't.

Disagree.

What do you think Lou will suspend Sutter for 3 games or something? :shakehead

The only thing that will be said is how Sutters remarks played a roll in Elias turning his game around if he actually does.

But his tactic of publicly trashing Elias makes him look like a hothead and hurts his credibility.

He did not trash Elias.

Again this is trashing Elias.....HE sucks and he is worthless. HE belongs on a farm milking cows. HE sleeps with goats and is worse then my mother in hockey.

If Sutter said that then I can see something being said about his uncalled for and disrespectful remarks.


The way Sutter spoke of Elias today was a sign of respect and confidence and a challenge. There was NOTHING wrong with it.

But his tactic of publicly trashing Elias makes him look like a hothead and hurts his credibility.

There is a difference between trashing and stating the facts. Quote me the parts of that article you consider "trashing".

He did not trash Elias.

Again this is trashing Elias.....HE sucks and he is worthless. HE belongs on a farm milking cows. HE sleeps with goats and is worse then my mother in hockey.

If Sutter said that then I can see something being said about his uncalled for and disrespectful remarks.

The way Sutter spoke of Elias today was a sign of respect and confidence and a challenge. There was NOTHING wrong with it.

Exactly.

http://www.torontosun.com/FrontPage/2007/10/17/1017TS0MN001.jpg
Hah, Toronto tag line writers make the Ledger and Post look like Chaucer.

The only thing that will be said is how Sutters remarks played a roll in Elias turning his game around if he actually does.

Do you really think that there is a cause and effect relationship between the two. That if Patrick Elias goes on to be a ppg player the rest of the year it's because Sutter insulted him multiple times via the Press in the first few weeks of the season? Do you think Elias is purposefully not scoring goals, but all of a sudden because a coach insults him in the media it's like a lightbulb goes off and he says, "you know what...I think I'llscore tonight instead of not scoring."

[IMG]http://Hah, Toronto tag line writers make the Ledger and Post look like Chaucer.

Funny.

http://www.torontosun.com/FrontPage/2007/10/17/1017TS0MN001.jpg
Hah, Toronto tag line writers make the Ledger and Post look like Chaucer.

That looks familiar. Wonder where i've seen that before? :sarcasm:

Do you really think that there is a cause and effect relationship between the two. That if Patrick Elias goes on to be a ppg player the rest of the year it's because Sutter insulted him multiple times via the Press in the first few weeks of the season? Do you think Elias is purposefully not scoring goals, but all of a sudden because a coach insults him in the media it's like a lightbulb goes off and he says, "you know what...I think I'llscore tonight instead of not scoring."

I'm sure that won't stop you from blaming Sutter if Elias plays like dog**** the next few games.

Do you really think that there is a cause and effect relationship between the two. That if Patrick Elias goes on to be a ppg player the rest of the year it's because Sutter insulted him multiple times via the Press in the first few weeks of the season? Do you think Elias is purposefully not scoring goals, but all of a sudden because a coach insults him in the media it's like a lightbulb goes off and he says, "you know what...I think I'llscore tonight instead of not scoring."

No I do not think there is necessarily a cause and effect of Sutters remarks and Elias turning it around if he does.


But it would not surprise me if Elias attributes his turning it around partially to the way Sutter holds people responsible to live up to expectations.

It is not as ridiculous to think Elias could be woken up from these remarks as it is to say Sutter trashed him and it was uncalled for.


Just like I think there is no cause and effect in the comments he made and the way Elias, Lou, his teammates or anybody will take it.

IT will have no effect on Elias and his feelings about Sutter.

Do you really think that there is a cause and effect relationship between the two. That if Patrick Elias goes on to be a ppg player the rest of the year it's because Sutter insulted him multiple times via the Press in the first few weeks of the season? Do you think Elias is purposefully not scoring goals, but all of a sudden because a coach insults him in the media it's like a lightbulb goes off and he says, "you know what...I think I'llscore tonight instead of not scoring."

He never insulted elias , he was asked a question by the media and he answered honestly and if elias doesn't like that then he has two choices shape up or ship out.

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.

Especially after we all loved this guy when he was signed.

I'm sure that won't stop you from blaming Sutter if Elias plays like dog**** the next few games.

Blaming Sutter? For what? This is the first time I have been critical of Sutter this year. The only other thing I've said that is even remotely critical of Sutter on this boards is that I wish he would leave some lines together for a bit to try and get some chemistry. I have not been critical of the man. You clearly have me confused with someone else.

There is a difference between trashing and stating the facts. Quote me the parts of that article you consider "trashing".



"He's just got to find a way to want to compete at his highest level, every shift of every game," Sutter said. "When he finds that, he's going to be fine. But it ... comes down to the individual, and his desire to want to do that. Patrik Elias is a hell of a hockey player when he's right, when he's playing like he can. But when he's not -- he's a tough guy (for a coach) to play."

He's just emoting like a fan. It's not like Mark Everson is going to give him some advice on how to get the most out of Elias.

And even when Patty hasn't scored in the past, he's killed penalties and been a generally good defensive player, so he is not "a tough guy for a coach to play".

So it just comes down to whether you believe it's a good idea to use public humiliation as motivation.

Especially after we all loved this guy when he was signed.

It's moments like this when we need Trotts to wonder in and crack some skulls if you know what I mean.

That looks familiar. Wonder where i've seen that before? :sarcasm:

yoink

It's moments like this when we need Trotts to wonder in and crack some skulls if you know what I mean.

I actually haven't seen him around here lately.(from the threads I have been reading)

So it just comes down to whether you believe it's a good idea to use public humiliation as motivation.

This is not public humiliation by a long shot, if you don't believe me ask Brittany Spears and Paris Hilton.

Your trying to make this more than it is just so you can pile on a man you mysteriously don't care for.

Blaming Sutter? For what? This is the first time I have been critical of Sutter this year. The only other thing I've said that is even remotely critical of Sutter on this boards is that I wish he would leave some lines together for a bit to try and get some chemistry. I have not been critical of the man. You clearly have me confused with someone else.

I'm not calling you a Sutter basher, I'm saying that if Sutter's actions today can't be cited if Elias starts playing better, then Sutter can't be blamed if Elias doesn't improve either. I don't really care what you said in other threads, I was directly addressing the point you made in this one. I actually agree with you regarding the lines, just not about what he said today.

I really hate the way things are going in Devil-Land Right now.

Hopefully I'll go to the Arena tonight and my spirits will be renewed...But Right now, I'm feeling, well....

M-I-C....See ya real soon...K-E-Y...M-O-U-S-E

He's just emoting like a fan. It's not like Mark Everson is going to give him some advice on how to get the most out of Elias.

And even when Patty hasn't scored in the past, he's killed penalties and been a generally good defensive player, so he is not "a tough guy for a coach to play".

So it just comes down to whether you believe it's a good idea to use public humiliation as motivation.

Emoting like a fan? I think Devsfan8 gave a better example of what that would sound like.

Elias is a public figure playing for a national sports team, he is not immune from public scrutiny and Sutter clearly laid out the facts about Elias' current play. Nothing he said there wasn't true and none of it was outwardly mean or cruel. If Elias is publicly humiliated by this and not his awful play since signing his contract then we have a much bigger problem on our hands.

Elias is a public figure playing for a national sports team, he is not immune from public scrutiny and Sutter clearly laid out the facts about Elias' current play. Nothing he said there wasn't true and none of it was outwardly mean or cruel. If Elias is publicly humiliated by this and not his awful play since signing his contract then we have a much bigger problem on our hands.

It's that simple.

theres not drama going on. sutter is picking on him to see how he reacts to it. hes not doing it so lou will trade or him or anything like that. he is trying to get him pissed so elias works his ass off every shift to prove sutter wrong

These little mickey-dicky mouse things are starting to accumulate way too fast for only 10 games into the season.

There are trials and tribulation for every team every year......But the mark of champions is how they are handled. Things aren't being handled well right now.

These little mickey-dicky mouse things are starting to accumulate way too fast for only 10 games into the season.

There are trials and tribulation for every team every year......But the mark of champions is how they are handled. Things aren't being handled well right now.

With all due respect, don't you think Sutter knows a little more about how champions are handled than you? I mean did you break into the league with HOF'er Al Arbour as your coach?

With all due respect, don't you think Sutter knows a little more about how champions are handled than you? I when did you break into the league with HOF'er Al Arbour as your coach?

Not to mention going undefeated in international competition and his impressive WHL record.

I think sutter is doing a great job. He has one goal that should be common to all of us and that goal is winning. not babying our players.

Not to mention going undefeated in international competition and his impressive WHL record.


Undefeated???? Didn't PArises USA team Beat his Crosby Gretzlaf Richards Fluery Carter team???


:dunno: that's impressive??? Man Dean Blais and Jack Parker must be Gods!

Season Team Lge Type GP W L T OTL Pct Result
1999-00 Red Deer Rebels WHL Head Coach 72 32 31 9 0 0.507
2002-03 Red Deer Rebels WHL Head Coach 72 50 17 3 2 0.729 Lost in Finals

Undefeated???? Didn't PArises USA team Beat his Crosby Gretzlaf Richards Fluery Carter team???


:dunno: that's impressive??? Man Dean Blais and Jack Parker must be Gods!

Season Team Lge Type GP W L T OTL Pct Result
1999-00 Red Deer Rebels WHL Head Coach 72 32 31 9 0 0.507
2002-03 Red Deer Rebels WHL Head Coach 72 50 17 3 2 0.729 Lost in Finals

"Sutter coached the Canadian junior ice hockey teams to consecutive gold medals at the 2005 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships and 2006 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. He led both teams to unbeaten records, becoming the first coach to lead Canada to consecutive gold medals. Sutter declined Hockey Canada's offer to return for a third time in 2007.[1] During the eight-game 2007 Super Series, Sutter extended his junior coaching unbeaten record to 20 straight games - 19 of them wins - behind the Canadian bench in international junior play."

Regarding his WHL record:

"The Red Deer Rebels are a Western Hockey League junior ice hockey team based in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. They play their home games at the ENMAX Centrium.

Founded: 1992-93
Division titles won: 2000-01, 2001-02, 2002-03
Regular season titles won: 2000-01, 2001-02
League Championships won: 2001
Memorial Cup Titles: 2001

The Rebels were a very successful team in the early 2000s winning three consecutive division and conference titles between 2000-01 and 2002-03.

Head coach, General Manager, President, and owner Brent Sutter was also highly successful while serving as Team Canada's coach at both the 2005 World Junior Ice Hockey Championship and 2006 World Junior Ice Hockey Championship."

Undefeated???? Didn't PArises USA team Beat his Crosby Gretzlaf Richards Fluery Carter team???

Is it me or does it seem like we have fans who nothing about this man? Com'on Jim, if your gonna bash the man relentlessly at least do some homework on him.

:heart: Sutter.

+a million

its so good to have a coach with some attachements again.

Lamoriello is great. i think the guy is a genius. but i think he panicked when he lost players in the offseason and gave in to zubrus who is not worth a crap. therein lies one of your teams biggest problem.

Sutter & team play accountability-1

Elias fanboys & tolerance for mediocrity-0


It's about time. :clap:

The country club/coach-killing era is over.

the only reason why sutter is doing this is becuase he sees how incredible elias is capable of being. i really think elias is going to step it up. i mean he has been hitting alot more now too. so thats a sign that he has been listening to what sutter has to say

Sutter & team play accountability-1

Elias fanboys & tolerance for mediocrity-0


It's about time. :clap:

The country club/coach-killing era is over.

agree, i think in the past coaches were reluctant to call out players but sutter knows his job is not going to be on the line if he does

He should support his player and give the media nothing.

If he wants to criticize someone for the team's performance, he should point the finger at himself for not getting the most out of his team. (Whether that's the case or not.)

Making you feel better by throwing Elias under the bus won't win the Devils one game.

You just described Julien....

Pat Burns would be doing the same thing - just not quite this early in the season and maybe not with as sharp an edge on his words... but he would still be saying the same things.

In total he's calling out his team and that starts with a specific person - who better than the former captain?? You gonna take Zubrus to task who is still trying to adjust to a new team? You gonna take Marty or Gionta? Oh wait... HE ALREADY DID.

It's fine and dandy by me - news flash for Devils locker room: There will be no spectators on this roster. Contribute and do your job or someone else will. They are getting paid BIG money to produce - Lou's not buying lottery tickets with those paychecks he's cutting... those are a contract. Quid pro quo - this for that. I pay you, you perform.

And in case anyone has forgotten, that's part of the reason people like Marty, Elias, Madden, Langenbrunner, etc... all re-sign with Lou. They appreciate that it is EXPECTED to win and get a Stanley Cup every year. If Sutter wasn't taking actions (what else is the guy supposed to do - he can't get out there and score himself) - he would be a spectator in his own right. [Julien ref]

And before you quote Julien's 100+ point season as he was jettisoned, that team was on auto-pilot and coaching itself at that point which Lou and everyone else saw... which meant if any problem creeped in, the man at the helm wasn't going to be able to correct course.

Sutter's not going to let this ship drift - full speed ahead to Lord Stanley's!

aye aye Cap'n! :handclap:


edit:

Is it me or does it seem like we have fans who [know] nothing about this man? Com'on Jim, if your gonna bash the man relentlessly at least do some homework on him.

Every good disaster movie has to have a few of the doomsday characters! ;)

Jim & Swede :scared: :scared:

But the good news is that movie ends with everything turning out alright... we just might lose a few people along the way...(see Van - NJ talking thread).

Lamoriello is great. i think the guy is a genius. but i think he panicked when he lost players in the offseason and gave in to zubrus who is not worth a crap. therein lies one of your teams biggest problem.

I disagree. From what I've seen Zubrus is playing with alot of heart out there. This is the reason Sutter hasn't really ripped Zubrus like he did Elias or Gionta. Zubrus has been trying and its been showing on the ice. He wears his heart on his sleeve and it shows. Its only a matter of time before Zubrus comes out big. Count on it.

I think its great the way Sutter is handling the team. He's showing them who's boss. Not the players, I don't care how much money you are making. He's the head coach. He deserves respect and you better show it. He will get this team in gear. Anyone who doesn't like it can leave. If Elias isn't happy, maybe he'll agree to be traded away.

Seriously, its time to put up or shut up. If they can't live up to their salaries, then its time to go. Elias mentioned a secret. I hope he plans on surprising all of us tonight and score 10 goals.

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.

Because they're trained to think our coaches are like Spinal Tap drummers.

This one isn't. If they don't turn it around, he's going to swing the hatchet
a little more.

I think this is the beginning of the end for Patty here. I don't think it'll even
be a performance issue.

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.

i know after all that praise and talk about how everybody is excited that he is a no nonsense coach and how he is going to be what this teams needs:shakehead

now they got what they asked for and all of a sudden they dont like it.

i love it, not only is it exciting on the ice and off but i think it in the long run will be great for our team

Brent Sutter reminds me a great deal of Herb Brooks, at least through this five week close view of Coach Sutter at the Devils helm. They both had great success at the amateur/semi-amateur levels. They both added international victories to their pre-NHL coaching résumés.

Sutter favors the aggressive style of attack like Brooks employed. Defense was sacrificed a bit for offense. The hope was, and is in Sutter's case, that the puck control would act as a defense by preventing the opponent possessing the puck.

Sutter also seems to like to, for lack of a better term, "push player's buttons." That is something for which Herb Brooks is a legend. It worked well at times for Brooks, but it would also affect some players negatively in the long-term.

From what I know of Patrik Elias, I don't think it is a good idea to dump on him because he isn't producing. Sutter did just that when he criticized Patrik's 2006-07 season. As I posted in the "Suggest Elias Trades" thread, the Devils left wing actually had a higher points per game number in 2006-07, 0.920, than he did in the eight seasons from 1998-99 through 2006-07. It should also be pointed out that he lead those teams, including two Stanley Cup Champions, in scoring six of the times.

Perhaps Sutter should have also told Elias that he was stripped of the captaincy rather than tell reporters who went and asked an unaware Elias how he felt about it. I don't think that was a terribly good move on the part of the new head coach. I can understand his desire to prove that it is his team, and the captaincy is certainly his decision. However, he could have gone about it in a different way.

Undefeated???? Didn't PArises USA team Beat his Crosby Gretzlaf Richards Fluery Carter team???


:dunno: that's impressive??? Man Dean Blais and Jack Parker must be Gods!

Season Team Lge Type GP W L T OTL Pct Result
1999-00 Red Deer Rebels WHL Head Coach 72 32 31 9 0 0.507
2002-03 Red Deer Rebels WHL Head Coach 72 50 17 3 2 0.729 Lost in Finals


Are you retarded? 2004 Brent Sutter was not the coach, he started in 2005, and won then, and in 06 with a much lesser team. Then he took Canada 7-0-1 in the Super Series. You seriously know nothing about Brent Sutter. I think it's time you just step off.

What people have to understand is that even the lowest paid player on an NHL team makes so much more money than the average person. It takes alot to get to the NHL level. Once you are there, you better give it your best to stay there. There are people hungry to be where you are.

7.5 mil is something most of us will never dream of having in our lives. Elias should feel lucky that he managed to do so much in his career and should try to live up to that salary.

Hope he gets the message and performs on the ice tonight.

Sutter & team play accountability-1

Elias fanboys & tolerance for mediocrity-0


It's about time. :clap:

The country club/coach-killing era is over.

They hired you as coach? ;)

Anyway, does anyone remember just how good this guy was back in the 2000 Cup run? How about 2001? It kills me and everyone else around here that he has turned into a shell of his former self, eating up $6 million of cap space. 69 points is not enough for him. He is our best player and he is invisible right now.

He had a great half season after the illness and parlayed that into a huge contract that will set him up for life. His play since that contract has been nothing short of a disappointing letdown. He is basically stealing money at this point.

I must say also that I love Elias as a player. I know he is capable of so much more and we need him so badly to be the player Lou signed him to be.

And as far as bashing Sutter goes...he is Patrik's boss. If you weren't doing your job, your boss would have every right to demand results, whatever the tactic. That's one of the perks of being the boss. Remember who is the employer and the employee.

I wonder if some of you nancy's are looking at the Pens board where the Penguins are calling out Crosby to step it up. If Crosby is not safe from public criticism then Patrik Elias, who, is no where near the league of Crosby is also all good.

Crosby's problem is that he's thinking about the team too much. He needs to get back to that selfish play of getting points. His getting points is what is important for the team.

I have to say, I am shocked, yes shocked, at some people's man-hate for our new coach, I just don't get it man.

People today want instant satisfaction. No patience, none whatsoever from a few posters. People act like were in a complete downfall but what were really in is a transition. The players are still adjusting and since were not playing to what were capable of playing yet, it makes blaming the coach the easiest thing to do. I mean we completly changed the entire gameplan this team has had for the last 15 years, you had to expect a few bumps in the road. I know I did.

Sutter & team play accountability-1

Elias fanboys & tolerance for mediocrity-0


It's about time. :clap:

The country club/coach-killing era is over.

Yes, I for one am sick and tired of our players bottling up like little pre-schoolers when they don't get their way all the time. They talk constantly about how they want a coach that preaches accountability and takes no prisoners, well now they got one. Tough ****!

Whole lot of "Waaaaaaaaah" in this thread.
Elias is a first line LW who is paid a good amount of money. He should play as such. Until he does, Sutter can and should say anything he wants about him.

marty reacted well afgter sutter called him out

[/B]

Yes, I for one am sick and tired of our players bottling up like little pre-schoolers when they don't get their way all the time.

I wasnt aware this regularly happens.

I, for one, was psyched with the Sutter hire -- and love his fire and will to win.

But as a coach, his success and gaudy stats have entirely been while coaching youngsters, not highly paid NHL veterans. And you simply need your seasoned players to play at the highest level to win in this league, and this does not seem like the road to get there.

The way he dealt with Richard Matvichuk, as an example, was REPREHENSIBLE. Richard sat out all last season, as a salary cap casualty, yet practiced hard with the team and gave leadership off the ice... (Gomez credits him for the motivating speach that led to his dramatic game winner versus Tampa in last year's playoffs, as one case in point...)

Yet Brent Sutter ignores that sacrifice and the value of that leadership. But now, when convenient, he references last season to rag on Elias -- even though he wasn't here to see the overall effort Patty gave. Which is it? When you are a team guy (like Matvichuk), that isn't worth remembering, but if you need fuel to publically call out your most important offensive weapon -- then last season (when he wasn't here) becomes part of the argument.

Bush league, IMO, more akin to the leagues he has been coaching in up to this point...

Being a "hot head" is fine with me. The players do not need to love the guy. But "RULE #1" in professional sports is that what is said in the clubhouse STAYS in the cluubhouse. End of story.

And if Brent Sutter really knew his Devils history, he'd know Patty is a second half player. So running him out of town after 10 games is not the best long term strategy. And acting like George Steinbrenner, with his level of NHL coaching experience, where he is clearly struggling, is kinda laughable.

I expect better from Brent Sutter.

It was completely unfair of Sutter to do this. Now Elias' feelings may be hurt and he might underperform and disappear when we need him most...oh wait....nevermind.

Eventually turning on your players is going to backfire for Sutter, but if it works for a couple of years I guess that's the best you can hope for in this day and age to maximize the potential of your players and team. I guess Larry Robinson will get the chance to be the mediator again as he was in the Lemaire days.

I wasnt aware this regularly happens.

Really, then start paying better attention.:handclap:

Eventually turning on your players is going to backfire for Sutter, but if it works for a couple of years I guess that's the best you can hope for in this day and age to maximize the potential of your players and team. I guess Larry Robinson will get the chance to be the mediator again as he was in the Lemaire days.

He's not turning on anyone, he's trying to bring players out of their funks.

There are almost no coaches in professional sports who say those sort of things about players on their teams. Sutter has started his coaching tenure in NJ by stripping Elias of the "C" and now he has annihilated him in the media. You can call it whatever you like but don't kid yourself into thinking Elias is not distraught over the way he's been treated. I'm not taking the side of Sutter or Elias here, I'm just saying Elias has to be utterly embarrassed and dismayed over what's happened and don't expect them to ever patch things up.

There are almost no coaches in professional sports who say those sort of things about players on their teams. Sutter has started his coaching tenure in NJ by stripping Elias of the "C" and now he has annihilated him in the media. You can call it whatever you like but don't kid yourself into thinking Elias is not distraught over the way he's been treated. I'm not taking the side of Sutter or Elias here, I'm just saying Elias has to be utterly embarrassed and dismayed over what's happened and don't expect them to ever patch things up.

What are they, dating? Patch things up? Grow up. Maybe Elias should go join a boy band before he gets too old and sing about his feelings.

Sutter has started his coaching tenure in NJ by stripping Elias of the "C" and now he has annihilated him in the media. You can call it whatever you like but don't kid yourself into thinking Elias is not distraught over the way he's been treated. I'm not taking the side of Sutter or Elias here, I'm just saying Elias has to be utterly embarrassed and dismayed over what's happened and don't expect them to ever patch things up.

Sounds like you're buying into some of the more recent sensational stories in the New York Post meant strictly for shock value purposes. This is Sutter's team. He has every right to cautiously evaluate his players and not make the same mistake made last season putting the captaincy on Elias' shoulders. Sutter's comments weren't annihilating. He's merely repeated the same words many of us have been saying for quite awhile now and the same thing he stated during training camp when he indicated the teams best players have to play like their best players for the Devils to succeed on a nightly basis. More power to him for expecting far more from Elias.

Awesome insight, Central Jersey Devil. I'll write it again and maybe you'll read it this time and see past your reactionary sensibilities and understand we are talking about professional players and coaches with big salaries and egos and not little league soccer clubs doing this for good times on a Saturday night.

Less than 10 games into the season Elias was stripped of his captaincy and ripped apart in the media by his coach. Either go to him behind closed doors and tell him he's gone if he doesn't perform up to your standards, or just trade him and move on. It's taken Sutter 10 games to turn this season into a soap opera. Do you really think he's taken the best route in maximizing Elias' potential to lead the Devils?? Or better yet, his trade value around the league? The tactics are questionable at best.

"He's just got to find a way to want to compete at his highest level, every shift of every game... But it ... comes down to the individual, and his desire to want to do that. Patrik Elias is a hell of a hockey player when he's right, when he's playing like he can. But when he's not -- he's a tough guy (for a coach) to play."

translation:

Patrick Elias has a lot of talent, that's true, but he doesn't play hard every shift, some nights not at all; I'm not sure he even has the desire to play hard and be a great player; I don't want players like that on my team and it's hard to bring myself to put him in the lineup when I don't know if the effort is going to be there.

I, for one, was psyched with the Sutter hire -- and love his fire and will to win.

But as a coach, his success and gaudy stats have entirely been while coaching youngsters, not highly paid NHL veterans. And you simply need your seasoned players to play at the highest level to win in this league, and this does not seem like the road to get there.

The way he dealt with Richard Matvichuk, as an example, was REPREHENSIBLE. Richard sat out all last season, as a salary cap casualty, yet practiced hard with the team and gave leadership off the ice... (Gomez credits him for the motivating speach that led to his dramatic game winner versus Tampa in last year's playoffs, as one case in point...)

Yet Brent Sutter ignores that sacrifice and the value of that leadership. But now, when convenient, he references last season to rag on Elias -- even though he wasn't here to see the overall effort Patty gave. Which is it? When you are a team guy (like Matvichuk), that isn't worth remembering, but if you need fuel to publically call out your most important offensive weapon -- then last season (when he wasn't here) becomes part of the argument.

Bush league, IMO, more akin to the leagues he has been coaching in up to this point...

Being a "hot head" is fine with me. The players do not need to love the guy. But "RULE #1" in professional sports is that what is said in the clubhouse STAYS in the cluubhouse. End of story.

And if Brent Sutter really knew his Devils history, he'd know Patty is a second half player. So running him out of town after 10 games is not the best long term strategy. And acting like George Steinbrenner, with his level of NHL coaching experience, where he is clearly struggling, is kinda laughable.

I expect better from Brent Sutter.

Why? He's Lou's hatchetman, and probably, successor.

He's building his team and swinging the hatchet. Could he have been nicer
to Matvichuk? Yes. But, I'm sure the good-cop, Larry or Lou tried to lay it
down nice for him, and Matvichuk wasn't buying.

He looked like rotting garbage in camp, they can't get anyone to even take
him for nothing.

Now, he's swinging the hatchet at Elias, rightly or wrongly.

He's definitely swinging the hatchet at Elias. I for one am not crying over Elias' feelings, I'm questioning whether alienating your ex-captain and a guy who has the potential to be the team's best player is a wise course of action. If you want to trade Elias, then do it!!! But quesitoning his heart and work ethic to the world is a bad move if you plan on trading him and an even worse move if you plan on having him stay.

He's definitely swinging the hatchet at Elias. I for one am not crying over Elias' feelings, I'm questioning whether alienating your ex-captain and a guy who has the potential to be the team's best player is a wise course of action. If you want to trade Elias, then do it!!! But quesitoning his heart and work ethic to the world is a bad move if you plan on trading him and an even worse move if you plan on having him stay.

I agree. Nonetheless, I think if Elias's failure to put up points continues...he will be asked to remove his no-trade & he'll be part of a major shake-up trade.

He's definitely swinging the hatchet at Elias. I for one am not crying over Elias' feelings, I'm questioning whether alienating your ex-captain and a guy who has the potential to be the team's best player is a wise course of action. If you want to trade Elias, then do it!!! But quesitoning his heart and work ethic to the world is a bad move if you plan on trading him and an even worse move if you plan on having him stay.


I don't know if it's as much alienating, as it is bringing Patty into his line of
thinking. I think Sutter has seen alot of these guys, but he doesn't know them, so
you're gonna make mistakes and step on toes.

With Patty, he might have made a mistake.

The ceremonial faceoff was a real bad sign, IMO. Either they don't know who
their leader is and everyone was scared to step up, or Patty was out to lunch
or acting out.

Ultimately, though, it's up to Patty. I thought he was fine tonight. He's still
not shooting enough, but he's also being heavily marked. But, the Muttley's of
the world are right, there is a dynamic in him missing. Maybe it's who he plays
with, I dunno.

It's a double-edged sword, the biggest problem the Devils have is NOT the difference
between Elias being a 70 point player and a 90 point player.

At the same time, if he's going to be the 70 point player, they have needs they
have to fill, and I could understand why Sutter is pissed, because he HAS to trot
Oduya out there all the time, he hates it, you can tell, but it's his least worst option.

Maybe this is somewhere where Lou has to step in? I don't know, but I don't think
he's going to.

The ceremonial faceoff was a real bad sign, IMO. Either they don't know who
their leader is and everyone was scared to step up, or Patty was out to lunch
or acting out.

They don't know who their leader is because THERE ISN'T ANYONE WITH A C. When you name 3 assistant captains and call out for the captain, at the least you really should tell the guys before it happens "hey, so and so, take this faceoff." Turning it into a public test for who should be the captain isn't really appropriate.

Ultimately, though, it's up to Patty. I thought he was fine tonight. He's still
not shooting enough, but he's also being heavily marked. But, the Muttley's of
the world are right, there is a dynamic in him missing. Maybe it's who he plays
with, I dunno.

Elias played very well tonight and if he continues playing like this, he'll get the production. His shot led to the only goal the Devils scored anyhow, so he even produced when the offense really couldn't finish to save their lives.

My main problem with the calling out Elias is that it makes it seem that Elias alone is the cause for the team's ills when it's really the entire team's fault. Elias gave a full effort tonight, but we honestly can't say the same thing for other members like, say, any of the 6 defensemen (OK, except Vishnevski tonight, perhaps) or the other forwards or the strategy of not adjusting when the other team figures out your dump-and-chase plan.

NOTE: I don't think the team is losing games because of it, but it certainly isn't inspiring any confidence. I don't think Sutter should be fired or anything like that, but I feel it is a bit of a mistake.

They don't know who their leader is because THERE ISN'T ANYONE WITH A C. When you name 3 assistant captains and call out for the captain, at the least you really should tell the guys before it happens "hey, so and so, take this faceoff." Turning it into a public test for who should be the captain isn't really appropriate.


Which is one of the reasons you could see it as a bad sign.

Elias played very well tonight and if he continues playing like this, he'll get the production.

How long are we going to keep saying this?

His shot is weak and fools no goalies(when he does shoot)

He can longer pick his targets with his wristers and snap shots, as they almost always end up right in the goalies chest.

He still passes too much, especially those ill-advised drop passes to no one.

While he is still an extremely talented stickhandler, he can no longer stickhandle his way through an opposing player/players (like he used to do with regularity) leading to him almost always coughing up the puck when he tries to.

I'm just curious as to what you see in him that will make him morph back into the player that we expect.

Awesome insight, Central Jersey Devil. I'll write it again and maybe you'll read it this time and see past your reactionary sensibilities and understand we are talking about professional players and coaches with big salaries and egos and not little league soccer clubs doing this for good times on a Saturday night.

Less than 10 games into the season Elias was stripped of his captaincy and ripped apart in the media by his coach. Either go to him behind closed doors and tell him he's gone if he doesn't perform up to your standards, or just trade him and move on. It's taken Sutter 10 games to turn this season into a soap opera. Do you really think he's taken the best route in maximizing Elias' potential to lead the Devils?? Or better yet, his trade value around the league? The tactics are questionable at best.

And what did Julien do to fire Elias back up? What can anyone do to fire Elias back up? ELIAS has to fire Elias back up! Sutter has had talks personally with every player he's "called out" in the media, m sure. He's a vocal guy, he's not the type to be scared to do so, especially not of some pantywaist like Elias.

If Lou can't intimidate hime, which is obvious, then Patty sure as hell doesn't. Sutter told Lou how it would be, and he's telling his players how it will be.

Some people on here just crack me up....you hate the nice guy approach and then when a coach comes in who actually cares and cracks down, you criticize him.

Now I"m calling YOU out.

...and he called them out again tonight:

Sutter publicly called out left wing Patrik Elias after Thursday night's 2-0 loss to the New York Rangers, and after Saturday's game he again questioned his players' effort, though he didn't name names.

''We've got a new group of players in that locker room who are adjusting to how we want them to play,'' he said. ''And those players who've been here in the past, they've got to find a way to do better. I'm tired of all the excuses.''


I like this man more and more.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=221586&hubname=nhl

...and he called them out again tonight:

Sutter publicly called out left wing Patrik Elias after Thursday night's 2-0 loss to the New York Rangers, and after Saturday's game he again questioned his players' effort, though he didn't name names.

''We've got a new group of players in that locker room who are adjusting to how we want them to play,'' he said. ''And those players who've been here in the past, they've got to find a way to do better. I'm tired of all the excuses.''


I like this man more and more.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=221586&hubname=nhl

I've always been awaiting the glorious day of a Devils revolution. A day when we get some real talent to go with a coach who can utilize that talent to win championships. But without that talent, God himself cannot lead us to the Cup.

...and he called them out again tonight:

Sutter publicly called out left wing Patrik Elias after Thursday night's 2-0 loss to the New York Rangers, and after Saturday's game he again questioned his players' effort, though he didn't name names.

''We've got a new group of players in that locker room who are adjusting to how we want them to play,'' he said. ''And those players who've been here in the past, they've got to find a way to do better. I'm tired of all the excuses.''


I like this man more and more.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=221586&hubname=nhl


LOL, they're gonna have to kick him up to GM pretty quick.

The effort wasn't bad at all, execution? Yes. They were totally outclassed.
He's acting as if a $7,500 claimer should be winning the Kentucky Derby.

It is funny to see a coach give back to the core of the team what the core of the
team has given to coaches in the past, though. Karma's a *****.

I am waiting for the mental breakdown, though where he punches Oduya and yells
at Elias "YOU CAUSED ME TO DO THIS!".

Holy hell, some people around here need to have a little more ****ing faith. Rather than crying and whining about every little thing that goes wrong, how about trying to remain positive? Sutter is shaking things up, and he's going to ruffle some feathers along the way. Nobody ever said it was going to be a smooth or easy transition to what Sutter wants the team to do, so relax. It's sad that some are already turning against the new coach just 10 games into the season...

How long are we going to keep saying this?

Keep saying that he did well?

Uh, as long as he keeps playing well?

You did see tonight's game, right? Elias took shots - 4 by the scoresheet's count, 5 by mine, Elias skating hard, Elias taking the one shot that led to the rebound that Gionta put into the net as the Devils' only goal (hardly a weak shot).

Unless I'm mistaken, Elias did tonight what you've been demanding - why isn't it enough? Or does he need to do it everyday in his sleep to appease you?

Keep saying that he did well?

Uh, as long as he keeps playing well?


Considering the team lost yet again and could only manage a garbage goal, 1 assist is not good enough for Brent Sutter and the rest of this Devils team.

So no, that was not "well"


It is funny to see a coach give back to the core of the team what the core of the
team has given to coaches in the past, though. Karma's a *****.


Yep. That's exactly what it is. Very ironic

Considering the team lost yet again and could only manage a garbage goal, 1 assist is not good enough for Brent Sutter and the rest of this Devils team.

So no, that was not "well"

Don't change the subject. This isn't about the team or tonight's game, this is about Patrik Elias - the player you've been itching to criticize since you've joined HF. Tonight, he played similarly to what you want to see from him and even got a point out of it.

Why is that so hard to admit?

Don't change the subject. This isn't about the team or tonight's game, this is about Patrik Elias - the player you've been itching to criticize since you've joined HF. Tonight, he played similarly to what you want to see from him and even got a point out of it.

Why is that so hard to admit?

umm, the underlying message of Sutter's comments after Thursday night's game was that he wanted Elias to score a goal/goals.

He didn't do that on this most important of nights, when the team needed him the most.

Your happy with Elias and many people (including our coach) aren't.

Let's just leave it at that.

umm, the underlying message of Sutter's comments after Thursday night's game was that he wanted Elias to score a goal/goals.

He didn't do that on this most important of nights, when the team needed him the most.

Your happy with Elias and many people (including our coach) aren't.

Let's just leave it at that.

I concede, I concede.

Elias only took the only shot that led to the rebound that led to the goal.

Despite it giving the Devils a 1 under their name on the scoreboard, that apparently doesn't count. Nope. Elias didn't get a brace or a hat trick or a fantasticly hard shot from the point that burned through Martin Gerber's shoulder and through the net with such velocity that would force Gary Bettman to award Elias 20 points for such a feat. No one else on the team did that or scored goals, but who cares about them - if the offense falters it's all Patrik Elias' fault. Like when the defense fails, it's all John Oduya's fault.

I'm going to leave it at that.

I am waiting for the mental breakdown, though where he punches Oduya and yells
at Elias "YOU CAUSED ME TO DO THIS!".


:biglaugh: This made my night. I can't stop laughing to this image in my mind. :biglaugh::biglaugh::biglaugh:

I concede, I concede.

Elias only took the only shot that led to the rebound that led to the goal.

Despite it giving the Devils a 1 under their name on the scoreboard, that apparently doesn't count. Nope. Elias didn't get a brace or a hat trick or a fantasticly hard shot from the point that burned through Martin Gerber's shoulder and through the net with such velocity that would force Gary Bettman to award Elias 20 points for such a feat. No one else on the team did that or scored goals, but who cares about them - if the offense falters it's all Patrik Elias' fault. Like when the defense fails, it's all John Oduya's fault.

I'm going to leave it at that.

Umm, no he didn't. That was Gionta's wrist shot that led to that goal. kthanksby.

Well, this answers our question if Sutter had talked to Elias personally before he made those public comments to the press about his play.

Patrik Elias said Sutter had not discussed with him the disappointment Sutter expressed about the ex-captain to the press.

"It's OK," Elias said. "Obviously he thinks I'm a really important person to this team."

Sutter suggested he was challenging Elias, who had only five points on the Devils' 3-5-1 season-opening road schedule.

"The point I made was that he has got to be better for us," Sutter said. "If you can't challenge your top players, you sure as hell can't challenge your bottom-end players. It just isn't right."

http://www.nypost.com/seven/10282007/sports/devils/rock_y_debut.htm

Well, this answers our question if Sutter had talked to Elias personally before he made those public comments to the press about his play.

Patrik Elias said Sutter had not discussed with him the disappointment Sutter expressed about the ex-captain to the press.

"It's OK," Elias said. "Obviously he thinks I'm a really important person to this team."

Sutter suggested he was challenging Elias, who had only five points on the Devils' 3-5-1 season-opening road schedule.

"The point I made was that he has got to be better for us," Sutter said. "If you can't challenge your top players, you sure as hell can't challenge your bottom-end players. It just isn't right."

http://www.nypost.com/seven/10282007/sports/devils/rock_y_debut.htm
Like you said, that answers the question. And I'm not too fond of the answer. If you've got a problem with the effort a player is giving you should go to them first, not the media.

Hey at least ELias helped score a goal today more then rest of the team did expect marty :)

As much as we all know Larry Brooks is a NYR propaganda hack, he is right on with Sutter's attitude and Elias' prolonged slump.

And though we are loathe to rain on the franchise's parade to its palatial home in Newark, then there is The Player Who Used To Be Patrik Elias.

Maybe it was the addition of the captaincy last year, maybe it's the loss of the captaincy this year under Brent Sutter, who clearly doesn't care who any Devil is or what any Devil may have done in the past. Maybe it's the seven-year, $42 million contract Elias signed as a free agent during the summer of 2006 that includes a no-move clause he received from Lou Lamoriello in order to prevent him from signing a six-year, $42 million deal he'd been offered by the Rangers.

Regardless, Elias has lost his edge and he's lost his shot. At 31, he's barely a shadow of what and who he was the first half of this decade and the second half of the 2005-06 season, when he led the team's charge to a division title upon returning from the case of hepatitis he contracted playing in Russia during the lockout.

He's barely a shadow of what he must be if this team, whose collective skill level is at its lowest since the early '90s, is going to make the playoffs.

http://www.nypost.com/seven/10282007/sports/devils/arena_may_be_better___but_devi.htm

Like you said, that answers the question. And I'm not too fond of the answer. If you've got a problem with the effort a player is giving you should go to them first, not the media.

Why?

Elias clearly understands what is expected of him.

So why then would Sutter need to privately tell him something he already knows?

Like I said, I have no problem with what Sutter did, but it probably would have been a good idea to hit Elias privately with this first. I just assumed he did.

So why then would Sutter need to privately tell him something he already knows?

Respect?

BTW, we don't know the whole story, because it is possibly that while Sutter never told Elias this directly, he very well might have indirectly and clearly too.

Why?

Elias clearly understands what is expected of him.

So why then would Sutter need to privately tell him something he already knows?
Does he understand exactly what is expected of him, or is he just too mature to complain to the media about it?

Sutter says he was challenging Elias - well, why not challenge him to his face? I'm not a fan of how he keeps saying things to the media before he says them to the players (this little issue, and especially stripping Elias of the captaincy).

Like I said, I have no problem with what Sutter did, but it probably would have been a good idea to hit Elias privately with this first. I just assumed he did.
Yeah, I agree.

But at the same time, I wonder if it should really be necessary considering that Patty is always saying that he knows. When Sutter benched him before, Patty said he knew why and that was better than some coaches before who would do it and he didn't know. Same thing when Sutter called him out the first time. And now with this, saying "That's okay. Obviously he thinks I'm a very important person to this team. When things go wrong you always look at your best players. I know how I prepare myself. Criticism doesn't bother me." So it's not like the captaincy, which came as a total surprise.

Respect?

BTW, we don't know the whole story, because it is possibly that while Sutter never told Elias this directly, he very well might have indirectly and clearly too.

Exactly.

It's all speculation, but I have this strong feeling that Sutter and Lou are aware that Devils coaches of the past (Julien most recently) have repeatedly tried the tact of respect by talking to players in private, instead of going right to the media and complaining.

I guess Julien had that "respect" last season, which as we all know, wasn't mutually returned by the players.

The country club atmosphere of the Devils is over and now with Sutter, it's what comes around goes around.

It's about time.

I don't care how he did the calling out. All I care about is we finally have a coach who is proactive rather than taking a "wait and see how things develop" approach.

I hope Zubrus is next on his call out list, did you hear the boos last night when Zubrus was introduced?

I don't care how he did the calling out. All I care about is we finally have a coach who is proactive rather than taking a "wait and see how things develop" approach.

I hope Zubrus is next on his call out list, did you hear the boos last night when Zubrus was introduced?
Pretty sure that was fans cheering Zuuuuubrus.

I hope Zubrus is next on his call out list, did you hear the boos last night when Zubrus was introduced?

His number is comming up soon. ;)

It sounded like they were yelling Zuuuuuu....for Zubrus

Pretty sure that was fans cheering Zuuuuubrus.

OH, then that must've been my own boooooooing I heard. I'm pissed at him.

I hope Zubrus is next on his call out list, did you hear the boos last night when Zubrus was introduced?

Zubrus is way more productive at centre than he is on the wing. Is sutter going to put him there when Langdi returns?

Despite not making a major impact, I though Elias played well last night. He certainly was working hard, my only complaint being that he should have take a few slapshots instead on wrist shots when he was coming in alone 1-1. He wasn't the only one though, other players did the same thing, taking weak wrist shots that weren't going to score when there was no one around for the rebound.

Despite not making a major impact, I though Elias played well last night. He certainly was working hard, my only complaint being that he should have take a few slapshots instead on wrist shots when he was coming in alone 1-1. He wasn't the only one though, other players did the same thing, taking weak wrist shots that weren't going to score when there was no one around for the rebound.

I thought the same, he was all over the ice, but there are times I feel he passed the puck off when he probably should of held onto the puck.

Are you retarded? 2004 Brent Sutter was not the coach, he started in 2005, and won then, and in 06 with a much lesser team. Then he took Canada 7-0-1 in the Super Series. You seriously know nothing about Brent Sutter. I think it's time you just step off.

Sorry, Was it Hartsburg that was the coach in 2004?.........I thought Sutter was all three years 04, 05, 06....Honest mistake of memorey.

Regardless, successfully Coaching Team Canada with some of the best talent on one team in maybe a generation is not all that impressive. It really is no indication of his Coaching ability to given the best under 20 team in the World by far and actually win...Was it Joel Quienville that coached the Canadian Olympic Team to Gold against the worlds best players in Salt Lake??? Big Deal right?

Either way The NHL record speaks for itself.

This Devil team is terribly run....And the players and the coaching ruined what should have been a magical night last night.

3-6-1 is far worse than "working out the kinks"

Sorry, Was it Hartsburg that was the coach in 2004?.........I thought Sutter was all three years 04, 05, 06....Honest mistake of memorey.

Regardless, successfully Coaching Team Canada with some of the best talent on one team in maybe a generation is not all that impressive. It really is no indication of his Coaching ability to given the best under 20 team in the World by far and actually win...Was it Joel Quienville that coached the Canadian Olympic Team to Gold against the worlds best players in Salt Lake??? Big Deal right?

Either way The NHL record speaks for itself.

This Devil team is terribly run....And the players and the coaching ruined what should have been a magical night last night.

3-6-1 is far worse than "working out the kinks"
No, that was Pat Quinn.

Elias only took the only shot that led to the rebound that led to the goal.


Umm, no he didn't. That was Gionta's wrist shot that led to that goal. kthanksby.

Considering this was the first Devils goal at our new home, one would hope people would remember the entire play...

To recap the goal; Elias made a sweet tape to tape pass to Gionta flying down the RW, while Zajac drove the net hard, forcing Anton Volchenkov backwards. Gio let fly with a hard wrist shot and Gerber couldn't contain the rebound. The puck then deflected off of the back of Volchenkov's skate and into the net.

Yes, it was Gionta's shot, not Patty's. But Elias set up the play beautifully.

Patty played a strong, physical and energized game and was clearly our best forward on the ice last night. If anyone disappeared in this huge game, when we needed him most, it was golden boy Zach Parise.

But all the haters can see what they want to see.

The image that stayed with me the most, however, was Brent Sutter standing alone on the Devils bench after the game was over, stunned and ashen, having been clearly overmatched on the biggest night of the season. Brutal and sad.:shakehead

The image that stayed with me the most, however, was Brent Sutter standing alone on the Devils bench after the game was over, stunned and ashen, having been clearly overmatched on the biggest night of the season. Brutal and sad.:shakehead

Kinda like opening the garage door to showcase that cherry '67 vette all polished up only to sit in it and the damn thing won't turn over...

I had that feeling too...

And I had to shake my head at the sound guy who messed up the cool intro movie leading up to the ceremonial puck drop... why does this ALWAYS happen to Devils media stuff?

I thought the movie with the Devil guy was pretty freakin' cool! the pitchfork going up to the rafters to unfurl the 3 cup banners was stellar! :yo:

They need to have that guy dressed up and running around the rink during the games!

Considering this was the first Devils goal at our new home, one would hope people would remember the entire play...

To recap the goal; Elias made a sweet tape to tape pass to Gionta flying down the RW, while Zajac drove the net hard, forcing Anton Volchenkov backwards. Gio let fly with a hard wrist shot and Gerber couldn't contain the rebound. The puck then deflected off of the back of Volchenkov's skate and into the net.

Yes, it was Gionta's shot, not Patty's. But Elias set up the play beautifully.

My mistake. I was on the other side of the rink and swore it was a rebound goal. But I was not completely incorrect in that Elias was the man behind the play there (as was Martin's decision to give Elias a short pass as opposed to dumping it into the corner).

Kinda like opening the garage door to showcase that cherry '67 vette all polished up only to sit in it and the damn thing won't turn over...

I had that feeling too...

And I had to shake my head at the sound guy who messed up the cool intro movie leading up to the ceremonial puck drop... why does this ALWAYS happen to Devils media stuff?

I thought the movie with the Devil guy was pretty freakin' cool! the pitchfork going up to the rafters to unfurl the 3 cup banners was stellar! :yo:

They need to have that guy dressed up and running around the rink during the games!

Better yet, he can take Oduya's spot in the line-up.

My mistake. I was on the other side of the rink and swore it was a rebound goal. But I was not completely incorrect in that Elias was the man behind the play there (as was Martin's decision to give Elias a short pass as opposed to dumping it into the corner).

Despite being labeled a "garbage" goal by some, it was a terrific end to end play. And you are absolutely right in that Elias was the key to the play with his brilliant set-up. Martin's outlet pass and especially Zajac's forceful rush to the net also contributed to the goal.

Had the rest of the team not had HANDS OF STONE in front of the net, Elias could have had two or three more assists. (Although Martin Gerber being on fire, as he has been all season, didn't help...)

I thought the movie with the Devil guy was pretty freakin' cool! the pitchfork going up to the rafters to unfurl the 3 cup banners was stellar! :yo:


Yeah, that was awesome, they did a really good job on that movie.

They need to have that guy dressed up and running around the rink during the games!

would be 10x cooler than NJDEVIL running around doing the same old dances

Despite being labeled a "garbage" goal by some, it was a terrific end to end play. And you are absolutely right in that Elias was the key to the play with his brilliant set-up. Martin's outlet pass and especially Zajac's forceful rush to the net also contributed to the goal.

Had the rest of the team not had HANDS OF STONE in front of the net, Elias could have had two or three more assists. (Although Martin Gerber being on fire, as he has been all season, didn't help...)

Give the Senators defense credit - they may have yielded a lot of open shots, but they either shut down or impeded any Devil looking to set up in the slot. That hurt the Devils as well, resulting in blocked, missed, and/or bad shots.

Give the Senators defense credit - they may have yielded a lot of open shots, but they either shut down or impeded any Devil looking to set up in the slot. That hurt the Devils as well, resulting in blocked, missed, and/or bad shots.

They might have the best Top 4 D men in the league. They only give up perimeter shots, and then one and done. Real tough to deal with. But I thought we had our chances, especially in the first period. But nobody can finish on this team. Zubrus, in particular, was brutal. And Zach was a no show.

Despite not making a major impact, I though Elias played well last night. He certainly was working hard, my only complaint being that he should have take a few slapshots instead on wrist shots when he was coming in alone 1-1. He wasn't the only one though, other players did the same thing, taking weak wrist shots that weren't going to score when there was no one around for the rebound.

I completely agree. He was all over the place, playing hard. I also thought Martin had a helluva game.

I completely agree. He was all over the place, playing hard. I also thought Martin had a helluva game.

At this point, playing hard is not enough. Playing hard is an acceptable tag to place on Sergei Brylin. If Patrik Elias plays hard for the next 4 games and does not put the puck in the net that is not acceptable.

I consider last night another failure of a game for Patrik Elias. He needs to wake the hell up and fast. This team is going nowhere fast as Zubrus, Gionta and Elias all 3 of our A's have done absolutely, postiviely nothing this season. And the Gionta goal last night was a garbage goal.

Also waive Karel Rachunek. He sucks in every meaning of the word.

I still have hopes for this team as their tradition of being a notably winning organization and what they have given me as a fan has made them earn my optimism until they prove differently. All I ask is that they are respectable. As of now their defense is lost and their offense is lost.

They might have the best Top 4 D men in the league. They only give up perimeter shots, and then one and done. Real tough to deal with. But I thought we had our chances, especially in the first period. But nobody can finish on this team. Zubrus, in particular, was brutal. And Zach was a no show.

As a buddy of mine said last night when watching him, I would trade 8 Devils defenseman for Anton Volchenkov right now. that is how good he is. :)

The one thing I will say is outside of a select few, the team is getting their chances and they are puttingthe puck on net so goals will come eventually. I just hope it is before it is to late.

At this point, playing hard is not enough. Playing hard is an acceptable tag to place on Sergei Brylin. If Patrik Elias plays hard for the next 4 games and does not put the puck in the net that is not acceptable.

Playing hard and being noticeable for it has to be better that going completely unnoticed during a game due to ineffectualness. Sure, it can still get better, but it's a step in the right direction.

He does not look foolish by any means. And it does not look like he does not know what he is doing. He is challenging Elias to step it up by calling him out. That was his intentions and I agree with it.

Devils left wing Patrik Elias said he had not read Friday's statements from head coach Brent Sutter that he needed to start playing better or he might end up on the bench.

"That's OK," said Elias, who assisted on the Devils' only goal Saturday. "Obviously, he thinks I'm a very important person to this team. When things go right, everything is OK. When things go wrong, you always look at your best players. I know how I prepare myself. Criticism doesn't bother me."

Sutter said he was not singling out Elias.

"All I made was the point he has to be better for us and that's the bottom line," Sutter said. "He's not doing it and there's other guys too, but I was asked a question about Patty." http://www.bergenrecord.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzImZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTcyMTQ0MzMmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2


Nuff Said. :)

Sutter told Lou how it would be, and he's telling his players how it will be.

Some people on here just crack me up....you hate the nice guy approach and then when a coach comes in who actually cares and cracks down, you criticize him.

Now I"m calling YOU out.

The only requirement I have for a coach is that he knows how to get the most out of his players. We haven't had a coach do that around here since Pat Burns.