In a recent interview, Seattle Kraken assistant coach Aaron Schneekloth reflected on his transition from player to NHL coach and shared insights into the team's defensive approach. He emphasized the importance of commitment and evolving tactics in modern hockey. Schneekloth highlighted collaboration and player development as key to success.
Aaron Schneekloth, who joined the Seattle Kraken as assistant coach responsible for defense under head coach Lane Lambert, described his path to coaching during the later stages of his playing career. Positions labeled 'player/assistant coach' in lower leagues sparked his interest, as veteran players naturally mentor younger ones. 'It's just part of the responsibility of a veteran player to help these younger guys achieve success,' Schneekloth said.
Defining his coaching style, Schneekloth stressed authenticity in communication. 'Just being honest with yourself and how you want to communicate, and the message you want players to receive is, I think, really important,' he noted. Continuous improvement comes from openness to new ideas and collaboration with staff and players, adapting to the game's growth.
On defensive skills, Schneekloth pointed to skating, passing, and defending as essentials, amid a trend toward positionless play. Examples include players like Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes, who blend offense and defense. 'The overall picture of players, their growth in IQ and understanding of each position has changed probably the most,' he explained. After over 50 games, he praised the Kraken's commitment to a defensive identity that fosters competitiveness.
Schneekloth, new to the NHL from another league, has learned about the entire roster through highlights and relationships. Systems design involves staff collaboration, including goalies and forwards, to counter high-skill opponents. For penalty kills, which are evolving beyond traditional setups, he advocated living the strategy through chemistry and communication. Tweaks, implemented via video and limited practice, have improved performance, involving six forwards effectively.
In a 'Fact or Fiction' segment, Schneekloth affirmed that defense wins championships, supported separate Norris Trophy categories for defensive and offensive defensemen, and agreed that effective defenders often go unnoticed, focusing on two-way play over highlights.
