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Leoben · 07-16-2024, 06:13 PM

It's probably strange to even write about the history of the Ottawa Highlanders at this point. But props are due and they're due, and and what this expansion team has been able to do in two seasons is nothing short of impressive. Even if it all comes crashing down against Maine in the next few games, the season can still be looked as as a success. A Conference Finals appearance in their sophomore season, just one season after finishing 14th overall in the league. This season, they managed fifth overall, still only good enough for 4th in their conference but their conference is tough. So what changed? How did this team go from bottom feeders to contenders in the span of a season? There are really only two answers. Coaching and drafting. But that's the same thing that can be said about any team.

Ottawa's management decided to take a different approach to the draft. Since position is relative in the Junior league, they went very forward-heavy in the draft and had a few players conscripted to play out of position until true defensemen can be drafted. The scouts had conversations with players and seemed to value character over performance in some aspects. It's almost the anti-Moneyball but so far it has worked out. They players they drafted have all meshed well and will only get better. The veterans have been able to take them under their wing, as they usually do. Everyone has been contributing and supportive with only one or two locker room issues coming up but they were quickly squashed by leadership. "It's fairly simple," one player said. "You either buy into their philosophy or you get out of the way. While that might seem harsh, the results are there right now. Good vibes provide good results. The rookies seem to be buying in and looked at the big picture rather than their individual performance."

Ottawa have steamrolled through the playoffs so far, toppling Colorado in four games and Carolina in five. They currently have a two game lead on Maine but they are currently playing game three as I write this, so they probably won't win another game.

"The coaches take a game by game approach. We spend a lot, and I mean a lot, of time studying tape and watching these teams. It's paid off. We have been playing some of our best hockey in the playoffs, even if some players are struggling, probably nerves."

The fun thing about Juniors is that teams can usually change on a dime. Hit it big in one draft and your fortunes are changed. Lose all your veterans in one season and you go from the top to the bottom. The Highlanders are definitely not resting on getting another shot next season. "The only run that matters is the one that we are on currently. Next season might as well be a lifetime away. So many things change around here so fast, it's not like the SHL. We need to strike while we can, and that's right now."

*CptSquall* · 07-27-2024, 12:09 PM

Approved @Leoben

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