At the same time, Lowry was only supposed to be a temporary replacement for Paul Maurice, who left the team during the last season. In the summer, Lowry then handed the team over to Bowness. It’s the arrival of the 67-year-old native of Moncton, Canada that should be a fundamental change.
“After last season, when the boys didn’t make it to the playoffs, they are happy that this coach and the entire coaching staff are here, and we are working to improve every day,” Ritticha rejoices.
The Jihlava graduate describes in Příklep other reasons why the team from the capital of the Canadian province of Manitoba has started to do much better this year. “I would say the team is the greatest strength. We don’t divide it into old and young groups. The young can say something to the old, the old to the young,” explains Rittich.
“Our team meets once a month. Only players. And we talk about things to improve. The openness of the boys to improve every day is very great and I think this is our greatest strength,” underlines the 30-year-old goalkeeper. covering the shoulders of Connor Hellebuyck.
He also really appreciates the collaboration with the 2020 Vezina Trophy holder. “I can’t say a single bad word, actually from the first day we sat down. most importantly, just forcing the other person to try harder, and that’s how it works for us,” explains the Czech goalkeeper, who previously worked in Calgary, Toronto and Nashville.
Striker Mark Scheifele is also a key member of the squad. “He’s been at the top of the NHL for a few years now, and for a reason. A terribly skilled player with great shooting and reading the game,” he says of the 29-year-old Canadian, who passed the 20-goal mark for the eighth consecutive season.
You can find more in the Příklep program video.