BACK 2 THE BEARS - DUSTIN GAZLEY

July 31, 2015

Having a versatile player can be both an asset and a difficulty for a head coach.  Suppose a player who spends abundant time at right wing gets thrust into a left-wing role, and starts producing points like an All-Star.  But, suppose there is a depth need at right wing.  Does the coach sacrifice the possible points to fill a need, or stick with the player at his new position and rely on other players to step up?  Head coach Troy Mann used right-handed shot Dustin Gazley on the left side in 2014-15, and the results were incredible.  It remains to be seen whether Gazley’s career year was a byproduct of that move, or whether his blazing speed and hard work ethic were the biggest factors.  Most people say it was both.  Regardless, the native of Novi, Michigan has endeared himself to Chocolatetown and has cemented himself into the 2015-16 lineup once again after producing 38 points (18 goals, 20 assists) in 72 games.  The 2014-15 season was the first in which Gazley spent the entire year in the AHL, and his stay was well-deserved.  He went on to add four points (two goals, two assists) in the Bears’ 10 game playoff run, with both goals coming shorthanded.  His stellar penalty-killing prowess will likely earn him top time on that portion of special teams, but he can also be a threat down low on the power play.  Gazley will figure to have new linemates next season, after spending most of the campaign with Kris Newbury as his center and Casey Wellman on right wing.  He certainly compliments any line well, and forces his teammates to up their own level with the speed he brings.  If Gazley finds himself alone with the puck and no opposing defenders, you could bet that his shot would end up in the net.  Finishing fourth on the Bears in goal-scoring, Gazley will easily play third- and second-line minutes at even strength – and get a lot of time on special teams next year.  He also becomes one of the longest-tenured players on the team, entering his third season with the Chooclate and White.