Overall, I think the team played pretty well but had some defensive lapses. We've seen more and more of these lately. I guess it's to be expected for a team to have a lull, particularly when they play such a rigid, structure style. I sometimes wonder if Sutter isn't already starting to wear on the players. He seems relentless in demanding perfection. Obviously, that can help a team reach the next level but it can also be psychologically exhausting to the point of leading to occasional apathy, particularly later in the regular season. On the other hand, it's possible that's what we see on the outside but in the room Sutter is more positive and heaps praise on players more regularly.
A few weeks ago it looked like this team didn't really have any weaknesses. They could play tough, they could grind, they could cycle, they could trade chances, they could transition, they could attack, they could defend. Lately, something that's a little concerning is the defense seems to be susceptible to getting beat with speed. That could be a problem against quick, attacking teams in the playoffs.
I'll echo the sentiment that he seems to be overplaying Markstrom. Maybe it's what Markstrom wants but a coach sometimes has to save the player from themselves.
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