Moscow Menace Disappoint and George Richmond Ghosts

[badcolethetitan 938]

Moscow Menace Disappoint and George Richmond Ghosts

 

Moscow Menace out Early

 

The Moscow Menace have fallen to the HC Davos Dynamo in a series 4-0, a sweep for Davos. The Menace are coming off of a cup win and unfortunately were not able to replicate their success last season, dropping 8 goals in 4 games. On top of that, they were unable to secure an OTW, dropping 3 OTLs in a row. It was a devastating time for Moscow fans, as most of them were expecting a deep run and not this massive upset by Davos, however, it is now a reality. George Richmond was not able to produce in the playoffs, with some people questioning his regular season performance. Despite dropping 80 points in 72 games played on the second line, Richmond was a minus for the first time in his VHL career, dropping a -5. On top of that, his goalscoring has slowed down, only having 32 goals this season with about 60 more shots on goal. This is concerning for Moscow fans who we're expecting somewhere around a 40 goal season from Richmond, and now he's stuck on a contract for another year. Richmond will most likely be staying on the second line and should he have another bad season, there could be the chance he could be moved to a different team. Heading into the playoffs, Richmond was expected to up his game, however, he was only able to drop 2 points in 4 games, with 1 goal and 1 assist. On top of that, he was also a minus in the playoffs, dropping a -4 in the 4 games played. Fans aren't too keen on Richmond and are expecting a huge bounce back the next season, or they'll be calling for his head. Richmond was asked about his regular season and playoff performance, to which he said, "I mean I didn't play well, don't know what more you want me to say. I feel like I for sure took a step back this season and need to step it up for the next season. My playoffs was abysmal and I can understand why the fans expect more from me. As for the future, I need to come in with a different mindset and be able to finish the chances given to me. I believe if I'm able to up my game, I will be the best second line player in the league and can help with depth scoring." Richmond also changed his game a bit this season, going away more from offensive goalscoring and playmaking to more of a power forward role. Richmond dropping 99 penalties minutes this season, including 7 fights on the year. Richmond stated that he was, "just trying to protect his star players", but he for sure got under the skin of the other players this season. Moving forward, Richmond wishes to be more of a scorer, but he's not against stepping back and taking a lesser role, should it be to help the team. Regardless, eventually Richmond will get his chance and it will be interesting to see what he will be able to do being the face of the team for the future.

[Knight 1,290]

George Richmond S96 MVP.