Surprised there hasn't been more action on this thread. Special teams more than anything are in large part an exercise in coaching and I'm shocked this didn't turn into a Hartley bashing thread (though I think Gelinas is running PP/PK). I agree with most of your points.
Re: PK, I really like the setup (diamond) with a focus on aggression and covering the high point while collapsing to block umbrella shooting. Much favor this to the tight passive box we've played for the last 5 years. However....it doesn't seem to be working as you've pointed out. I would tinker but not blow it up and continue to believe in it.
Re: PP, it doesn't look too bad. Your points re: puck possession and losing faceoffs I believe are a huge factor. Also I'm a fan of the break-in, wouldn't mind seeing them make the decision to drop to the trailer or pass to the winger closer to the opposition blue-line though (as opposed to closer to the red line/our blue line which kind of defeats the purpose). The strategy is there but it kills the play when we drop it too far away from the opposing blue line. Watch red wings for correct way to execute. Lastly we need a RH shooter who can one-time like cammy.....tough to find.
Generally though, I like both strategies for PK and PP and they definitely have a different flair this year. And I've hated our special teams strategies in the past as you may have figured out. I remain hopeful!!
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