Hull says players intimidated by Gretzky

[J.R.]

Hull says players intimidated by Gretzky

TSN.ca Staff

10/3/2005 11:25:48 AM

Brett Hull says Wayne Gretzky's emergence as a head coach may be good for the NHL, it is having a negative effect on some Phoenix Coyotes players.

"I think everyone has underestimated how intimidated players are reacting to Wayne being there (behind the bench)," Hull tells the Arizona Republic.

"Their expectations of themselves have risen, and I think they're having trouble grasping that within themselves. They're nervous and they're playing tight. I think that's going to take some time to wear off."

Hull says he's spoken to several players, telling them to just go out there and be yourself on the ice.

"I try to tell them before every game: 'You're not here by accident. You're here because (GM) Mike Barnett and Wayne Gretzky and the coaching staff and (Executive VP) Cliff Fletcher think you have the ability and have the skill and have the mental fortitude to play at this level. So don't be intimidated."

Phoenix enters the regular season having lost six of eight pre-season games.Via: TSN.ca (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?id=138622).

[charlio lemieux]

Having the Great One behind the bench could be a distraction for a little while, but should be motivational for most of the season. Hull is just the right guy to loosen up the bench. They will be alright.

[leaferfan87]

At this point I think the players are just in awe about playing for #99 and I think that they'll settle down after awhile. Gretzky just needs to work to make sure that the players don't feel intimidated playing under him and Hull will help alot in easing that.