Trotz referred to fans’ nervousness — and current Caps coaches and players’ having to address questions about the Caps’ history, most of which precedes their arrival — as “clutter,” in the sense that it doesn’t help the team focus on the goal at hand.
Trotz’s concern highlights an increasingly prevalent issue, as most sports franchises have now been around long enough for lifetime and multi-generational fans. Meanwhile, coaches have a shorter leash to produce, and players often move on from their original club in order to earn more money through free agency; the salary cap further exacerbates the issue, because often clubs cannot afford to retain valuable players, so there is more player movement.
As far as Coach’s Trotz requests, I’m not nervous this season, and I explained why a fortnight ago here. in case this helps any of you. The Caps’ history — and the blood, sweat and tears that all Caps fans have given for as long as they have supported the club — doesn’t go away, but we can all be positive and supportive of the club and each season’s Capitals team roster. We are fully behind the 2016-17 Caps team!
We need a loud and rockin’ Verizon Center whether we’re ahead or behind in the game. Support the Caps vociferously at all arenas, and let’s deliver on Trotz’s request of positive vibes and energy.
By Tim Foisie Follow @12th_man_Tifosi