Quote:
Originally Posted by Nelson
I loved it! In particular, I was impressed with Valimaki and Andersson on the blue line and to see Frolik have such an excellent game after being scratched. Also, I love Noah Hanifin.
But my #1 observation from tonight's game is how much more aggressive the forecheck is compared to last year. Last year, the forecheck was butter 3 minutes deep on power level 10. This year they are turning pucks over at the offensive blue line constantly. Even if a much more aggressive forecheck is the only tactical change from Gulutzan to Peters, the coaching change is totally worth it. Who would have thought the Flames would look so much better without the other team flying out of their zone virtually unimpeded?
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Peters has emphasized and emphasized time after time that the forecheck is one of the biggest keys to success in hockey. You put pressure on the other team, and, if you do a really good forecheck, can cause a turnover. That is how Backlund was able to feed Frolik for his 2nd goal of the game. It was a beauty and my favorite goal this game because it shows that hard work pays off. This team is winning games because they are abiding by what Peters is giving and are seeing the results that they've wanted.
This team is going to look really scary if Smith continues to play solid and the forward depth continues to score. I have no issue with the defense considering Andersson and Valimaki are taking that defensive fears away.
Dougie who?