The Vancouver Canucks are having a good season and are dominating the Dallas Stars, primarily through their special teams play. What makes this a bit surprising is that the lineup features five rookie players.

QUESTIONS:

1. The main focus of the article is on the Canucks special teams play. This is only one aspect of the game. From the standpoint of synergy, discuss why Vancouver’s special teams may be the difference maker in terms of their success.
2. While winning is the obvious answer, what factors make this season’s Vancouver Canucks an effective team? As you answer, recognize that there are three key outcomes associated with effectiveness.
3. Sports teams typically experience some turnover in personnel every season (and sometimes during the season). Does the team go through the stages of development each season? Explain.
4. Discuss the importance of norms and cohesiveness for a sports team. Who is responsible for reinforcing these?

SOURCE: B. Zeimer, “Special Teams Carry Canucks to Win,” National Post (Retrievable online at http://sports.nationalpost.com/2011/02/01/special-teams-carry-canucks-to-win/)