Title: The Importance of Accountability in the NHL: Analyzing Joel Armia’s Penalty
Introduction:
As a young player in the NHL, it can be frustrating to be benched in critical moments of a game due to a lack of trust from the coach. Montreal Canadiens winger Jesse Ylönen has experienced this firsthand. On the other hand, veteran player Joel Armia made a costly mistake but faced no immediate consequences. This raises questions about accountability and the establishment of a team culture.
The Costly Penalty:
During a recent game against the Florida Panthers, Armia committed a needless penalty by pulling Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s helmet off in the offensive zone. The Panthers capitalized on the power play, resulting in a game-winning goal. The Canadiens’ penalty kill has been struggling, making such penalties even more detrimental. Defenseman David Savard acknowledged the impact of such penalties, emphasizing the need for caution and improvement in critical moments.
Lack of Accountability:
Despite his costly mistake, Armia continued to receive ice time after the penalty. This lack of immediate consequences raises concerns about accountability within the team. Coach Martin St. Louis mentioned the need for correction and addressing the issue but failed to take significant action. This sends a message that players like Armia can make mistakes without facing appropriate consequences.
Establishing a Standard:
St. Louis often talks about setting a standard for the team, with players expected to meet certain performance expectations. However, by allowing Armia to continue playing without consequences, the coach dropped that standard. Younger players like Ylönen, who have been benched for lesser offenses, may question the team’s culture and the message being sent to them.
The Role of Ice Time:
St. Louis mentioned that ice time could be one way to address Armia’s penalty. However, it is ironic that Armia received significant ice time after committing the offense. This contradiction undermines the coach’s credibility and the importance of accountability within the team.
Conclusion:
Accountability is crucial in any team sport, and the NHL is no exception. The lack of immediate consequences for Joel Armia’s costly penalty raises concerns about the team’s culture and the message being sent to younger players. Coach St. Louis must address these issues promptly to establish a standard of accountability and ensure the team’s progression. It is essential to prioritize the future of the franchise and teach valuable lessons to the players who represent it.