11 Comments
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Michael Rosen's avatar

I hate that you wrote this article!!!! I hate it even more because I agree with you!

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CScotty's avatar

It’s interesting how different in their approach to physicality of play/retribution PDB and Maurice are with their teams. 2 guys who played together, coached together.

My view… PDB coaches game “as it should be”… Maurice coaches game “as it is”.

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joe's avatar

Sort of feels like the discussion about putting the family dog down. I'm pretty sure they can make the transition for Benn a lot smoother than what transpired with Modano. He has been a well paid loyal soldier who deserves recognition and a soft landing. I believe that Nil will find a role for him to ease his retirement. Hanging up the axe and turning out to pasture has to be extremely difficult for the old warhorse.

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GHJ's avatar

Sadly it is time…

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Matt Haltom's avatar

Thanks for saying what needed to be said. I fear the same needs to be said about Duschene

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Steve Crump's avatar

When Bouchard slashed Hintz, ESPN reported De Boer told the team not to play the retribution game. Stars have skill, a good system, and promise. They lack grit on a close team to respond to players who cross the line. Nill has to see if Pete is capable of instilling a group mentality like FL. They need a Keane and a Carbo. It cannot be turned on at playoff time. It has to be a part of their DNA as the new core is developing. Hatcher sent a message league wide when he took out JR. Benn needs to go, his time is done. A great team controls physical responses. Pete? Is it manageable that Nill can read it and Pete can coach it?

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AtlantaStars2025's avatar

totally agreed. just post almost the exact comment on the athletic. someone should have delivered and ass kicking after that. stars need some sandpaper for sure. one or two of those guys that every other fanbase in the league hates...

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Charles Brikmanis's avatar

My wife asked if we could scratch him for game 5. Who would wear the C. My favorite player but it’s time.

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Ron's avatar

Who wears the C if this is Jamie's last season? I know Wyatt is being groomed as the captain of the future, so most Stars fans see his succession as a foregone conclusion, but this seems a little soon to me. Granted, I've never been in that dressing room, so my intuitions aren't based on much.

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dcross0's avatar

Great article. While very one else may see it the pride of a professional athlete often makes them hang on too long. Hopefully the organization from the owner on down will have those conversations with Benn on how to bow out gracefully. As for our Stars, even the most diehard have to admit we're a step below the Oilers, has be #1 off-season goal to bridge that gap.

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Ron's avatar

Andre Ward (and to a lesser extent, Lennox Lewis) are the only athletes I know who retired on top. I'm sure there are a handful of others, but it's a very rare thing to see in professional sports!

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