Bill Zito. It's the two most magical works in the hockey universe. He's front and center as the gold standard in hockey management.
Bill Zito. It's the two most magical works in the hockey universe. He's front and center as the gold standard in hockey management.
Hey, don't believe the Maven just check out Zito's two diamond-studded Stanley Cup rings. Then study his style – while musing about his Rangers counterpart.
The Maven's most eminent NHL GM Style-Studier, Jess Rubenstein, turned his X-Ray machine on Zito, delivered his findings and did likewise with Chris Drury at The Garden. Here are the conclusions:
"Zito focuses on team chemistry, loyalty and long-term contracts. Plus, he has a built-in advantage. Because his team has won two Cups – and the year before that went to the Final – his players are willing to give a discount to keep the core together.
"In addition he emphasizes a 'Family Culture.' In other words, players such as Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett publicly express their desire to stay.'"
But there's more than that. Zito keeps pulling off money miracles in a Salary Cap era, or to put it the Rubenstein way, "He aggressively manages the Cap while keeping his core intact."
Rivals still are shaking their heads in amazement, reflecting on how Bashful Bill was able to land Brad Marchand and Seth Jones at the Trade Deadline. The whole wide world knows how well that duet did in the playoffs.
"Bill also maintains a nice core of young talent which allows him to make mid-season deals without disrupting the franchise," Rubenstein concluded.
As for Rangers management, there are two conclusions. A. It can't get worse than 2024-25. B. It might get better. (Who knows? Maybe even much better!)
Rubenstein: "Chris Drury has made several missteps operating the franchise. For example, Salary Cap management has been an annual issue the past two years. His coaching turnovers hamper development of a 'Family Culture' where player loyalty is built. Last season's moves clearly disrupted the locker room."
How Mike Sullivan Can Be Like Cup Coach Paul MauriceMike Sullivan is a gamble as new Rangers coach because he's a retread whose last stint in Pittsburgh was as stale as last century's eggs.
Jess insists that Drury's cap management has forced player trades to create cap space.
And finally this: "Poor Draft picks have forced the franchise to rely too much on free agency and trades to build the roster."
Drury already has made moves to address the challenges. For sure, he's not done with the rebuild and will be among the busiest GMs between now and camp.
As for Paul Maurice, he's laughing! Because he's not the same Paul Maurice who once exited Winnipeg exhausted!
Category: General Sports
