Let's Re-evaluate how we look at hits

[RedRenegade]

Can it be said that: More hits = less puck posession = bad?

Nothing wrong with hitting when we don't have the puck. Of course its a good thing, that's not what I'm saying.

So hitting is good and bad? I got it. Or maybe not. Just out of curiousity, have you done any actual research into the hitting stat? Seems like no to me.

Did you see how McLaren scored last night? Brown checked the opposing d-man (Georges), taking him off the puck and we got possession in their end. A good check changes possession so if puck possession is what you're looking for I don't see how hits could be bad.

 

[ULF_55]

I agree, I'm so disappointed when the other team touches the puck in a 60 minute game. Why can't they control the game and not let the opponent get possession ever?

What would be the point in hitting someone without the puck then? It would be a penalty for interference.

You know they purposely let the other team have the puck so that their hitters are allowed to do their jobs?

Now if we were talking about the old Red Wings you might have a point. They would go entire games without the other team having the puck, that's why they forced Lidstrom to grow older.

 

[samwitch]

A few days ago I read that Chicago was dead last in hits in the league.

Hitting and playing gritty is great but puck possession is what makes your team elite imo. It also starts from the back end so having a d that can control the play and slow down the pace of the game if needed is crucial if you want to win games. A big difference with Montreal this year and last is obviously the coaching but having Markov back is overlooked sometimes.

Yes, but hitting can also directly lead to puck possession. The hit can directly cause a turnover or turnovers can occur from bad decision making by the other team due to the fact that they are anticipating getting hit or having someone in their face. I don't necessarily disagree with your statement, just a few things to consider.

 

[toronto murphy laws]

Chicago is in first and has the fewest hits. That said, doesn't mean having lots of hits is bad. We don't play a possession game but you can still win in mucky style.

 

[Giuseppe Sallo]

When it comes to the playoffs, Hitting is vital. Grinding it out!

 

[Eb]

Someone get some stats in here. How does Toronto's puck possession rank in the league?