You know the signs.
First, you’re dropped into the limbo known as a “positional rotation”. It’s confusing, and it leads you to wonder what you could’ve possibly done wrong. But, as a team player, it’s all about soldiering through and embracing this new role
Then, a few days later as you stroll into the building for a morning skate, you get the news. You’re a healthy scratch.
Days, weeks, even months go by, as you watch longingly from the press box each night while your teammates get on just fine without you. It’s excruciating, like realizing your spouse can find happiness without you.