Build off a solid game 1.
This team's top six needs to win more face-offs and begin play with the puck asserting their puck possession game versus chasing (McDavid 33% and Draisaitl 48%). Saw off those face-off draws will be important.
More meat into the line-up with Carrick and Desharnais. I really like a Janmark - Carrick - Brown line which can be a positive factor in this game and series. Expecting them to have Line 3 deployment responsibilities with McLeod Foegele not delivering much (but maybe their speed & forecheck offers a Line 4 mismatch). Henrique to 2W gives a solid shot, net front presence, and good passer to support Draisaitl. Hope to see more high danger shot opportunities for Draisaitl.
I'm ... hopefully ... hopefully ... hopeful that Desharnais will deliver a simple, effective structured d-partner to help Nurse reach the level this team needs from him. Those two can make it tough on Florida forwards if they can keep their decision making quick, efficient, and effective.
Surprised to hear speculation of Kulak's discomfort at RD as he was a good, stable veteran option with Nurse. Broberg has been a godsend for this team with his processor, poise, and toolsy game of transporting pucks and role outlet passes. Asking a lot for the inexperienced guy to deliver quality minutes on his off-side.
Kane stays in. Period. His physical, intimidation game is needed in this series and is still a player that can deliver big moment finishing. Have to get his volume shooting up with is a different layer to a team that is heavy puck possession based. Shooter mentality and guy who will get dirty in the trenches is still an important element.
