Can't remember which loss it was, either cats or canes I think, but Newsy said the most infuriating thing post game. Something along the lines of "well we're not even supposed to be here" in reference to losing (again) while competing for playoff spot.
What kind of jackass logic is that? Well you are there regard. And your GM didn't sell to gain assets in order to keep you there. So, ya know, the whole "no big deal" attitude, is beyond bad optics to most fans... and probably worse internally...
How are the players supposed to react to statements like that? "Dont worry about playing awful and dropping another one guys, we weren't even supposed to be in the playoffs this year". Does he thinks this motivates them??? Forgiving their awful play and dismissing our goal of the postseason because in Derek's magical personal timeline of fate we arent SUPPOSED to be where we are? You are there! Fuqqing act like it! And then maybe ur team will act like it too...
And b4 anyone says he probably acts differently behind closed doors... thats pretty much just as bad. The coach whom Im supposed to respect and follow is two-faced and says one thing in public and another to us. Wonder who he's talking out the side of his neck to today, me or the media? I wouldnt be very happy if I was Patrick Kane, and I got lured here with promises of pushing for the playoffs, for the coach to non-chalantly suggest we arent expecting to make the playoffs.
IMO its extremely important to have a clear message on all fronts when your leading anything. When anyone in my department at work starts sending emails that are even slightly not insync with the image/goals/message I want, I nip that in the bud hard everytime. Optics/perception/message matters. To your team and to those outside it.
Im convinced this guy is sending mixed signals or his signals are just plain bad.
At least Blash had intellect enough to say something longwinded and boring, instead of something stupid.
Guy isnt gonna last.