Quote:
Originally Posted by Freeway
Would all of y'all prefer player updates, system updates, or a bit of both from tonight's game in Calgary?
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Hi Ryan,
Thanks for taking the time to ask.
Players
Elliott
-How good is he at playing the puck outside of the crease? Gulutzan's system may force a lot more enemy dump ins.
Tkachuk - Bennett - Brouwer
Their on-ice chemistry can be pretty easily gauged, but there may be stuff that the audience at home misses. Like little shots in defence of a linemate, or discussions on the bench.
Bollig
Is he physical? Did he remember how to actually play hockey?
Kylington
How much is his slighter build holding him back from NHL-level physicality?
Tuulola
Does he still have the confidence and swagger that endeared us to him during developmental camp?
Systems
-Gulutzan wanted the defencemen pressuring at around the blue line - how do the forwards support that pressure? Does the center pick up speed to help chase down pucks in the corner on dump ins? He stressed gap control in his defenceman compendium on YouTube.
-He also wanted a much tighter-knit defensive breakout formation with the forwards coming in and providing outlet lanes. What does the far-side winger do?
Does he charge in through the center and pick up speed? Does he hold at the opposition blue line for a tip-in dump? Does he cherry pick?