Mid-Season Report Cards: Coaching and Management

Photo by Eliot J. Schechter/NHLI via Getty ImagesWe graded the forwards. We graded the defence and goalies. But as pivotal as the players are to, you know, forming a hockey team, there’s always a staff working behind the scenes, serving as the backbone to the franchise. Before we reveal our ballots, we take a look at the final two categories on the list: coaching and management.

Today is also your last day to get in your report card submissions — fill out this form to have your say and be a part of this series. Let’s dive in!

D.J. Smith, Head Coach (Staff Grade: B)

Since being hired in the off-season as the successor to Guy Boucher, D.J. Smith has made a good, albeit not outstanding, first…