Johnny's afraid, plain and simple. He pulls up or curls on just about every play and with back pressure he forces passes or turns the puck over. Defencemen are stepping up and forcing him earlier, closer to the blueline and he doesn't seem to have the quickness to get around guys right now. Problem for Johnny is there is no real way for him to simplify his game to get back on track. Other guys can dump and chase or crash the net to get things going, Johnny, not so much. It's a confidence thing nothing to do with Gulatzan in my mind.
I would take Gudas on this team in a heart beat. Tough, solid defensive defenseman is exactly what this team needs. He made some great plays at both ends of the ice as well, some very smart pinches. And that Provorov will be a stud, great looking young defenseman. On the Frolik non-call I liked it, thought Provorov played it perfectly.
|