I have to agree with you in that regard, maddash. Any player that would get a straight up question like that posed directly to them might become defensive. And, who could blame them? Personally, I wouldn't put the question to them in such a direct manner. I'd make it more tactful and conversational if I were a beat writer for the team. I'd take (or already would have taken) the time to build a relationship with several players that would enable me to ask questions that would lead to insightful answers. Over the course of time, I think it's entirely probable to learn what the mental state, level of desire (in comparative terms), level of focus and clubhouse chemistry is.maddash wrote:And I completely understand Dan when he says he's not trying to disparage a player's character, but honestly, how else would a player take it if you said to them "I don't think you have the same desire/focus as you did a year ago".
However, in reality, my question is being posed to fans of this team that follow them very closely on a day to day basis. Fans that indeed see trends, changes and such with the team as an aggregate, as well as, with individual players. If we cannot draw conclusions from observing them play on a daily basis, then what are we to do? Just assume all is well despite evidence suggesting otherwise? And, why not discuss the emotional part of the game? Lord knows we have stats covered...which is very cool.
Sure, not one of us likely knows the exact heart or mind of each player being discussed. But, when did that stop any one of us from discussing any number of reasons for the team's play or individual performance in the past?