The Athletic’s Max Bultman discusses the Red Wings’ need to “maintain their culture” should Henrik Zetterberg no longer be able to play hockey:
Trying to define a culture can feel impossible. At its simplest, the concept boils down to the phrase Kronwall used: “That’s what you did.”
How it translates to younger players, however, may not be so simple.
“I think it (varies) from individual to individual,” Kronwall said. “Some guys you gotta talk to, some guys just watch and they just pick right up. And some guys, even though you do talk to them, it takes a little longer. But eventually they’ll get there. In the long run they’ll understand (that) the sooner they come to grips with, ‘What do I need to do to stay at this level and keep pushing?’ the better off you’re going to be and the sooner you’re going to become a better player.”
There’s a distinction to be drawn between this type of leadership and the kind that comes from formal captaincy. While Kronwall could theoretically have a case for that job as well, this is more about setting examples and expectations — something that doesn’t require a “C” on a jersey, but goes a long way nonetheless.
These are subtleties, but things that have made an impression on Kronwall as he was coming up. Right now, at the start of a new season, that matters for setting a tone.
Bultman continues (paywall)…
