By Luke McGinnis
Speaking about building the roster for the upcoming season, Dutertre said:
“I love the recruiting part of the job. I’ve been really lucky that I used to do a lot of contract work for different agents and their players, so I already had a decent network. Then, as the years went on, I did a good chunk of the recruiting in Tulsa, which helped me make a lot more contacts as well.
“With recruiting, you’re constantly talking — your throat gets sore at the end of the day because you’re always on the phone with agents and players.
“I think it’s important that you have a few veteran guys that you build around, then bring in some younger, more skilled players to work around them.”
On the importance of homegrown players, he added:
“I’ve had some really good conversations with homegrown players. I want them to know that if you’re having a good night, you’re going to play.
“If you’re a veteran, I’ll probably start you in a certain position, but if somebody is outplaying you, then they’re going to play. Our sport is Darwinian — the best players are going to play that night.
“I look at other teams and see homegrown players hardly getting on the ice at all. For me, the whole point is that you want to develop those guys and work them into situations where they can play.
“It’s my job to help teach during the season so I can put them in positions to be successful, build confidence and earn more ice time.”
Physicality is another area Dutertre believes is important heading into the new season:
“I like the street gang mentality. If we’re playing connected and working hard for each other, guys end up sticking up for each other.
“I also really like the threat of violence. You don’t need to be violent, but I want teams to know when they play us it’s going to be a hard game.
“That being said, you still want to have one or two guys that are an insurance policy, so if a team does try and push you around, you can hold your own.”
Discussing what he is looking for in an Assistant Coach, Dutertre explained:
“I was an Associate and Assistant Coach for so many years, and one thing I always believed is that you have to be the Head Coach’s best salesman.
“I always told my boss that even if I didn’t agree with something — if you wanted the guys to skate backwards for a whole period — then I’d be the first one getting on a player for not doing it. Even if I don’t agree, it’s your programme and I’m helping sell that programme to the players.
“I think that’s really important — everybody being on the same page.”
Finally, Dutertre shared a message for Stars fans as the offseason continues:
“I have quite a few irons in the fire. It’s about being patient, but I think fans are going to like the signings we have coming up.”
