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Coach Jon Cooper Sets Record Straight on Andrei Vasilevskiy Rumors

Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X April 27, 2023
3 1 minute read

We learned yesterday that Derek Lalonde, an assistant coach for the Red Wings and a former colleague of Jon Cooper, gave some crucial information regarding Andrei Vasilevskiy that could severely affect the Bolt’s goaltender.

In a nutshell, the former Lightning assistant coach exposed Vasilevskiy’s supposed problem.

“We did a study…he was one of the lower-percentage goalies in finding pucks from the point…we changed our entire D-zone (coverage).”

Cooper then responded.

The Bolts’ head coach stated that Lalonde’s statement is incorrect and that the reports about Vasilevskiy’s claimed frailty are false.

“Sportsnet pays him well to give his opinion, so he has to come up with something about stuff like this.” – Jon Cooper

“He’s just there because he was an assistant coach on that team. So, he’s trying to give insight and trying to give something relevant to the fans, and he should just make sure it’s accurate.” via Lightning Insider

Any coach would have probably done the same thing to safeguard their player. However, the Leafs are sure to try a lot of shots from the blue line in the following game.

The timing isn’t great because if the Leafs defeat Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay’s season will be over.

The series resumes tonight in Toronto.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X April 27, 2023
3 1 minute read
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