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Is it weird for a coach to not talk to his team after a game, or is it extremely weird?
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews said coach Jim Hiller usually does not speak to the team after games, prompting debate about whether that is an unusual coaching practice. The article argues that post-game communication is a normal part of coaching, while acknowledging that a speech alone would not solve the team’s problems.
Matthews made the comments after Toronto lost 5-2 to Minnesota, saying the team would review video and work on reducing major mistakes and turnovers. The Leafs were 8-11-2 and seventh in the Atlantic Division at the time; the article suggests Hiller’s silence may not help win over frustrated supporters.
In short
- Matthews says Hiller usually skips post-game talks.
- Toronto lost 5-2 to Minnesota.
- The Leafs were 8-11-2 and seventh in their division.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A coach’s brief post-game message can help a team process a result, reinforce priorities and maintain a sense of shared accountability, especially during a difficult run. If players rarely hear from their coach after games, supporters may reasonably see that as a missed opportunity to offer direction and connect with a frustrated group.
The case against
Post-game silence can give players time to cool down and leave detailed analysis for video review or the next practice, when specific mistakes can be addressed more constructively. A coach need not deliver a speech after every game to communicate effectively, and the team’s performance is unlikely to turn around on the strength of a post-game talk alone.