Quote:
Originally Posted by DeluxeMoustache
We want Gaudreau to be a physical player now?
How is Gaudreau not being as strong as Fleury on Gaudreau? People have different physiques and genetics. If Gaudreau is shifty enough to avoid contact, why wear himself down trying to fight through it?
It was the predictability of his play (high buttonhook) and speed of team decision making down the stretch against Colorado that killed the team
I think you have to look at why the team was easy to defend against, and Johnny’s game is being shifty and having teammates quickly finding open ice. Not muscling through guys 40 pounds heavier than him
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The problem is everything you described IS playoff hockey, you need to muscle through that contact and no shy away from it or you will be ineffective. There are plenty of skill players than changed there game to enable themselves to play in that environment, Johnny will have to learn that and to stop wishing and barking for penalties. This time of year taking the hit to make the play can be the difference, you need everyone to be willing to do that bailing on the play and throwing the puck away isn't going to do much for the teammates that lay it on the line every shift.