Fogghorn wrote:
Did ownership tell Linden to keep striving for the playoffs? Did Linden tell Benning that was the only acceptable goal when hired and Benning misjudged the talent and agreed to this. Or do Benning and Linden really believe this is possible and have completely misjudged the talent.
It's probably a bit of both. Anyone who has been around the Aquilini family even a little, knows what a control freak Francesco is and how downright intimidating and incorrigible he can be when it comes to his businesses. Unfortunately, he also has Linden on the payroll and in his back pocket. We all know Jim is out of his depth but will do as he is told directionally and is left to assess / manage talent. It's a learn on the fly operation people, right down to Willie D. And let's not kid ourselves, the Sedins are also stakeholders in the direction of this team. They have given their hearts and guts for 15+years and everyone within upper organization feel they deserve another chance to win - another kick at the can, however remote the chances might be at this stage. Enter Erickson.
It doesn't make it right but these are undeniable factors - the sad reality of this franchise in it's current state. The tell tale sign is that they are both trying to win now or at least compete for the playoffs and rebuild on the fly. Mixed messages. Sign UFA"s, develop youth, bring in PTO's, compete for the playoffs, trade away young assets and draft picks. Do everything and nothing and pray something sticks. The only way they can replace the Twins will be through trying to obtain a franchise player via conventional means, i.e. not through the draft, which is a long shot.
It's all very confusing and lacks clarity starting with last season - the players have said as much on record, suggesting that the leadership group is trying to please everyone - just like the personality of their leader Mr. Linden.
So the fans wait 2-3 more years. It feels like the franchise needs to start over again from scratch.