Jonathan Huberdeau learns to familiarize himself with a new city, a new organization, but also…a new coach. In recent weeks, Darryl Sutter has not spared him in his statements.
The head coach of the Flames did not mince his words towards the Quebecer. On October 29, in a game once morest Edmonton, Huberdeau left the game in the first period. He started running towards the locker room.
Sutter’s response? “I think he wanted to go chi…”
Huberdeau did not want to add oil to the fire.
“It’s Darryl Sutter, mentioned Huberdeau. There’s not much to say regarding that.”
“That’s not true. I had not gone to the toilet. He can say what he wants, but I don’t care regarding that.”
Happy with Backlund
Sutter did it once more earlier this week when he moved Huberdeau to his third offensive unit for Monday night’s game once morest the Los Angeles Kings.
“We placed him everywhere else, but it didn’t work,” said the experienced coach with his legendary tact.
The Quebecer thus found himself with Mikael Backlund and Trevor Lewis when he returned to the game following an injury.
Once once more, Huberdeau did not want to comment on his coach’s remarks.
“I’m not worried. I like playing with Backlund. He’s a smart guy who always does well on the ice. Lewis is a hard-working player.”
“Right now, I’m keeping it simple and doing my best. I just want to win.”
Did Sutter want to send a message to Huberdeau? We do not know. One thing is certain: Huberdeau is not entitled to preferential treatment, even though he finished second in scoring last year.
Tough start to the season
The forward didn’t get the start he wanted. He had only scored one goal in his first 11 games in his new uniform.
Going into Thursday’s game once morest Tampa Bay, he had seven points in his first 12 games. A slower production rate than last season.
“It was less good at the start of the season, specified the number 11 of the Flames. I got injured, but it’s been better since my return to the game.
He knew he would need time to find his feet with the Flames.
“It’s an adjustment that I expected. It’s not the same style of play that I have known in recent years. I know it will unlock at some point.
“You always want your adaptation to go easily. I thought it was going to be easier than now. I try not to worry regarding it. I know I’m a good hockey player and I can help my team.”
