Ahead Of Game 4, Monarchs’ Assistant Chris Hajt Talks Defense

While there has been plenty of talk, and praise, for the work Mike Stothers has done in his first year behind the Monarchs’ bench, plenty of credit should also be directed to his assistant Chris Hajt. The 36 year old came over after spending the past five years in the same role with the Guelph Storm, where Justin Auger, Nick Ebert, and prospect Zac Leslie all played last season.

After the team’s morning skate in Utica hours before Game 4 of the Calder Cup Finals is slated to start, we caught up with Hajt to talk about the defense he runs and get his thoughts on the upcoming contest…

On Game 4:

“After having a day to watch the film, you want to get right back at it, and be able to play the next game. They got the win. It’s important we respond in the right way and have a real good game.”

On the loss of Jeff Schultz:

“Throughout the year, Schultz was called up, LoVerde was hurt, Bods was out, so we’ve had different guys in and out of the lineup all the time. Raine started being in the playoffs as well. He played the first couple of games in the Portland series. You’re adjusting based on that. That’s just the way hockey is. Those guys, as a group of eight, have played very well and done a good job.”

On the debate versus playing Kevin Raine or Ebert, and what deciding factors were in that decision:

“They both deserved to play. They both had a real good year. I’m not going to talk about that other stuff.”

On if losing goaltender JF Berube calls for any defensive adjustments:

“We just have to play Monarchs’ hockey. That’s the bottom line. We’ve had a real good year, and we’ve done it by hard work and doing the little things well. Nothing changes at all.”

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