I watched TOR over the last couple games, and I must admit that I am watching with some discomfort. So weird seeing opportunistic scoring, pucks flicked out into the neutral zone, heavy forechecking, down low plays, etc.
How do you feel about the change so far? It certainly looks like cookies are going to be hard to come by.
Wild start, but I like the defensive structure.
I havent watched a game yet, saw some highlights. If they are playing this style in a north/south fashion, it is far more beneficial to them when it matters most in the playoffs. Playing a playoff style game throughout the year can only lead to better preparation for when the space disappears.
No one cares if Matthews only scores 20 goals and Leafs finish 8th if the team wins a Cup. He shouldn't care either as this is where legacies are made.
As it were I have doubts the core players can play this way on a permanent basis. At least Matthews can be counted on to play a two way game regardless. Generating offense in a game of tight ice hasnt been his or any of the cores forte though. It should drive increased, hungry PP success also.
Repetition can only breed success and star players SHOULD be able to figure it out and their stats will eventually shift to the mean. It will then continue in the post-season. That is the theory anyway.
Jordan learned to play a stronger game against the Pistons at a time when the NBA was physical under the hoop (until the league decided to protect their stars, mainly him) and it served him well.
