Barry Trotz is one of the good guys, a coach who gives and gets respect, but not all NHL coaches can say the same. Credit: Joseph D. Sullivan
Let’s start here with Barry Trotz so nothing can be misunderstood about the intent of this column:
The Islanders' coach, headed for the Hall of Fame shortly after his career ends, has an impeccable reputation for a reason. He earns and deserves respect — from his players, his bosses, the media and within the community — because he treats others with the utmost respect.
Flat out, Trotz is on the opposite end of the spectrum from the nasty allegations of verbal and physical abuse directed at colleagues Bill Peters, Mike Babcock and Marc Crawford.