Carlyle defends decision to scratch Vatanen: 'That's what coaches do'
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If anyone was unclear about why Anaheim Ducks defender Sami Vatanen was forced to the press box for the club's tilt against the Winnipeg Jets on Monday, head coach Randy Carlyle offered up this for consideration:
#NHLDucks D Sami Vatanen was a healthy scratch on Monday. The reason? “That’s what coaches do,” Randy Carlyle said.
— Scott Billeck (@ScottBilleck) January 24, 2017
There's no denying the young rearguard may be in need of some inspiration. While the Ducks have been rolling - winning seven of their past 10 and claiming the top spot in the Pacific Division - Vatanen has looked far more mediocre.
The 25-year-old has 17 points through 46 games, putting him on pace for 30 by the season's end, but he's managed just two points through his past 13 appearances.
He's also sporting a career-worst even-strength Corsi For percentage of 48.9 as he adjusts to a heavier defensive-zone workload this season. Not the smoothest of transitions.
The Ducks won 3-2 in Winnipeg with Vatanen out of the lineup. His next chance at returning to the ice will come against the Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday.