A few short months ago I was blogging on another site for fun, and because of that blogging was asked to be a part of this site.  However, one of the things I covered early in the season was the apparent problems with John Michael Liles and Coach Sacco.  Liles looks like he doesn't want accountability which makes him even harder to trade.  A limited trade clause makes it even harder to get a warranted return.

The strange part is that he came out very poorly against the Kings in response to a benching.  The last benching he received put him on a point per game pace.  He is very capable of playing well, defensively and offensively, so where is the problem?

I think the problem is off of the ice.  I think Liles isn't taking his off ice conditioning serious enough, and seems to be a guy who could enjoy the nightlife a little too much.  As I noted in the article before there is a lot of mentoring going on with this team.  If that is the case the last thing that should be going on is a veteran who just signed a big contract being an off ice distraction to the young guys who are learning to excel at this level.

The other issue is that we have a stable full of young defensmen who are going to be breaking into the league throughout Liles contract years.  Shattenkirk has an offensive flair and will be a key component on the power play for years to come.  Cumiskey already is proving his mettle with moves like his 9 second overtime game winner.  We have several other workable prospects come up through the ranks as well.

All that said, the best thing for Liles is a fresh start.  This depth that the Avs now have at defense for years to come is not conducive to an under performing player.  I won't say he is overpaid because we know he is capable of 50 points a season, but should be getting closer to 65 or 70.

Our depth at Defense is a burden and a blessing all at the same time.

Written by :

Scott Reekers