We do. And that is a good stat, but we play a way different game overall, don't just pack into the front of the net. And the most important difference is the depth and the amount of players we play. In 12 we played 9 forwards and 4 dmen into the ground. We have a lot more balance this season. More guys play more minutes. That is biggest difference IMO.
The overall roster is a big improvement. That has a lot to do with AV allowing players to play their game and not thrown into doghouses. Sent from my SM-G900P using Tapatalk
Kreider and Zucc are the biggest examples of what you are talking about Al. Two players who were buried by Torts, and look at them now. Maybe a touch unfair with regards to Kreider since he has matured, but still is what it is.
AV said that the biggest lesson that he learned in SCF in 2011 is to roll 4 lines, even if there was more chances to win that particular game by playing 9 best guys and 2 best def pairs. AV said in 2011 he played some guys so hard that by the time that they got to SCF no more gas left AV believes that if you are going for the cup entire team needs to contribute and 3 lines 2 def pairs will not work. According to AV in today's NHL you cannot win with 3 lines and team that does it will lose. Interesting take!
He's right, its the fatigue factor big time. I'd say roll 4 lines till the SCF and then you do what you need to for wins.
You need to switch papers during the playoffs Al (back page of Post "French Toast" with full page pic of MSL celebrating his goal), even a small pic of CK on front page "Blue em Out". I've been saying all year that this team was going to easily make the playoffs and was better than 2012's, they are a much deeper team with 2 sometimes 3 good scoring lines and a solid 4th line. I think Torts underachieved during his tenure here with the talent he had and his short stint in Vancouver kind of bears that out. If Brassard is hurt I'd give Miller the nod. I don't think the Habs will be looking to take out Lundy since the refs will surely be looking for such play but they might turn a blind eye to rough play with CK, he's going to have to keep his cool like he did with Prust.
another good prediction by me, score on odd man rushes, (goal 2) and score on PP ( goal 3) we win, next game they need to come out hard and put this team away, more odd man rushes more goals