Before Game 6 NYR Head Coach Gerard Gallant made the bold decision to scratch second overall pick Kaapo Kakko. The move spurred a wave of confusion over the hockey world, as Kakko's underlying analytics were among the best on the team:
Source: @CJTDevil
When asked initially about the decision in his post-game presser, Gallant simply offered 'no comment.' Today, in his season-exit press conference, he offered a similar response when asked if a conversation was necessary:
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He did go on to suggest that Kakko--and first overall pick, Alexis Lafreniere--are critical components of the Rangers' future. However, he offered a puzzling bit on that subject:
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The interesting part, is where he says he would be disappointed if Kakko & Lafreniere aren't in the Rangers' top-six forwards. As if Gallant himself isn't directly in charge of that decision. Furthermore, the Rangers aren't exactly in a position of strength headed into the offseason, having only $13 million to fill more than half a dozen roster spots.
The decision to scratch one of NYR's most effective forwards in an elimination game is a microcosm of the decision-making that saw Gallant dismissed from Florida's bench & later Las Vegas'. At least, one can reasonably ascertain so. Gallant has a history of general success, but a short shelf life. Is this more of the same, or will he be able to finally coach a team to hockey's highest peak, the Stanley Cup?
