Brian Boyle interview
He made it clear that the impression he got when asked to play defense in Manchester was that it was a permanent move, and not just to help him with his center play. He also talks about his time with the Kings so far and how playing defense changed the way he plays center.
``It’s been a lot of fun. It’s definitely what I’ve been working for. I wanted to get to the NHL, so hopefully I can stay as long as I can. The guys have been awesome. The level of play is obviously something I never experienced. Things have been pretty positive. There’s obviously a lot of stuff I need to get a lot better at.''
On his hot start with three goals and an assist in six games: ``I’ve been fortunate. I had some good looks. Jeff gave me some pretty good passes, as did Moul. I was pretty happy to get the first goal out of the way. I’ve tried to be as prepared as I can for each game. You really can’t take any shifts off or you’ll get exposed pretty quickly.''
On being asked to play defense: ``I tried to commit to it totally. I went into it thinking I was going to be a D-man after being a centerman my whole entire life. It was a good experience but it was tough while it happened. Kind of some ups and downs, some good games that were fun and others that were really tough. My plus-minus kind of sucked from it. Poor Peter Harrold had play with me every game too.''
On what he learned from playing defense: ``All in all, I did learn a lot. It kind of helped me out as a centerman to be supportive of my defensemen and work as a three-man unit instead of just two guys, because if your center’s not there it makes for a long day in the d-zone. Now I know what it’s like for a defenseman if you don’t have a good low center.''
I think it will do Brian Boyle some good to see how a good down low center operates. Handzus may be a good influence on the kid.
What a great attitude!
Awesome interview!
You rock, Matt!
Concisely got inside some of the fascinating issues of a talented young player.
My only complaint was that it was too short---How about
20 pages next time?!
Boyle seems like a good interview--Honest, direct & highly intelligent.
His comment on Harrold showed a modest & self-deprecating sense
of humor.
I'd love to hear more
from Boyle.
Please, Matt--Try to interview him again!
Just ask US via this board if you need
any new questions!
Thanks,
and
Keep up
the great work!