Joe Sacco, Bench-Boss or Bench-Warmer?

Although playoffs are certainly a long-shot for the '09-'10 Avalanche, there is no shortage of intrigue surrounding this team.  In this series we'll examine the most interesting aspects of the upcoming Avalanche season.  The first topic will be new head coach Joe Sacco.

Before last year, Tony Granato trumpeted a new up-tempo system.  Unfortunately Granato lacked the game plan and players for this system.  Granato scrapped his game plan after only a couple games, and then was scrapped himself this offseason.

After a botched attempt to hire Patrick Roy, enter Joe Sacco and a two-year contract.   This only begs the question: is Sacco simply a two-year bench warmer? 

Supporters can point to Sacco's familiarity with the younger players whom he coached at Lake Erie.  Monsters alums David Jones, Chris Stewart, TJ Hensick, Kyle Kumiskey, and possibly Ray Macias will get NHL ice time next year.  Fans may also get to see the next wave of prospects, who include:

• Ryan Stoa (Minnesota Golden Gopher captain/forward)
• Brandon Yip (Boston University forward)
• Cameron Gaunce (Mississuaga Majors defenseman), and...

• Matt Duchene (Brampton Battalion center)  

With two former Avs, Steve Konowalchuk and promoted Lake Erie assistant Sylvain Lefebvre, as assistant coaches, Sacco seems to have ample support.  Don't forget Sacco was an assistant for Team USA at this spring's IIHF World Championship in Switzerland.

Success, ultimately, will not be measured in wins and losses, but rather player development.  If Sacco can do an admirable job, his reward may include passing the baton, rather than a contract extension.  Look no further than Michel Therrien, who helped transform the Pittsburgh Penguins from losers to contenders only to have Dan Bylsma swoop in and put his name on the Stanley Cup last season.

The Avalanche organization is notorious for insisting employees remain upbeat and loyal.  Regardless of how long his Avs' tenure is, one thing is certain: Joe Sacco will be a good soldier.