Darryl Sutter uncharacteristically rips the previous Flames' coach Geoff Ward for his coaching

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Josh tupper
September 7, 2022 (10:59)

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Darryl Sutter is known as a no nonsense coach, who usually likes to keep things close to his chest. The long-time coach is usually the type of person who won't say anything negative publically about someone else. He often likes to keep things close to his chest and has garnered a ton of respect for it.

But yesterday while taking part on a local Calgary radio station Sutter opened up about taking over for Geoff Ward during the middle of the season in the North Division.

On March 5th, 2021 the Calgary Flames announced that they'd fired Geoff Ward. Ward was to be immediately replaced by Sutter in hopes of turning around the Flames season. The Flames were ultimately unable to get their ship righted and into the playoffs, but bounced back last season by winning the Pacific Division.

The roster in 2022 was very similar to the one Sutter took over the year before, so why was there such a drastic shift? While on Sportsnet radio 960, Sutter admitted what the problem was.

The 2021 Flames in the Canadian Division bubble was one of the worst trained teams in terms of conditioning when he took over mid-season.

It is extremely surprising to hear Sutter come out and admit the shortcomings of the team, but it also explains the turn around last season. Teams who play at altitude like the Flames often have a conditioning advantage, but it was clear Ward didn't take that portion of the game seriously.

Now entering the 3rd season behind the Flames bench it's clear Sutter has put a real focus on fitness and being able to outwork your opponents. It's that reason that makes Sutter such a valuable and successful NHL coach.