Sunday Evening Editorial

There has been some discussion the last few days on the blog and at the rink about player movement. Basically what everyone is wondering is: Is Cullen done making roster moves?? Now obviously, I cannot speak for Coach Cullen, so keep in mind these are only my opinions.

I don't think the Express are done tweaking the roster and here's why:

1. If the players don't have to worry about the roster spot they could become complacent. It's good for the guys to be worried about getting released or traded. The prospect of packing their bags should keep them motivated, not only for the games but on the practice ice, in the gym, at school, and in the community. Not to say it would happen here, but if a head coach came out and said "That's it, we're done making roster moves" it would take away some of the urgency the players should feel.

2. Coach Cullen has a history of tweaking the roster long into the season. Think back to the first 2 years of the Express under Cullen. I won't list the specifics, but the roster was far from solidified in early October of those years. In addition, several of the best players to ever wear an Express jersey came to the team in the middle of the season. (Bickel, Kozlak, Beaudoin, Hopper, etc...)

3. Coach Cullen basically said there will be. On the Express Coaches Show last Monday, Cullen said there will be small roster changes still coming. He also said that "On a daily basis we hear from kids from all over the country that want to play here." He then explained that if a player becomes available that can help the Express, that they will get a look. He wouldn't be doing his job if he didn't take the opportunity to better this team.

4. Players plateau. Player "X" and player "Y" make the team at tryout camp. They look exactly the same, and play equally well. However, player "X" is playing the best hockey he is capable of, while player "Y" is playing only at 50% of what he is capable of. Through training camp and the early part of the season, player "X" plays the same, while player "Y" works hard and elevates his game from 50% to 70% of what he is capable of. Which player do you want on the team?? Sometimes it takes half a season for a players true ability to be known.


This is big time hockey, and we expect and deserve a team with the best 25 guys we can get. If that means that some players have to go to make room for new guys, than so be it. It happens in every sport at every level above high school. That doesn't mean I don't feel bad for them when they go, and I truly hope they succeed wherever they end up. That being said, I really like the 25 guys on the current roster, and can't wait to see them blossom into a winning team.

--Big Kahuna