This season, Juraj Slafkovsky has made notable strides in his performance, particularly on the defensive end. His improvements, though not yet reflected in point totals, are contributing positively to the Montreal Canadiens’ overall defensive game. With the Canadiens’ penalty kill struggling at 26th in the NHL, it may be time to give Slafkovsky an opportunity on the ice during shorthanded situations.
Slafkovsky’s Defensive Impact
Statistically, Slafkovsky ranks as the top defensive forward for the Canadiens at even strength. He allows only 52.09 shot attempts per 60 minutes, narrowly edging out team captain Nick Suzuki, who allows 52.63 attempts. This discrepancy highlights Slafkovsky’s effectiveness in reducing scoring chances when he is on the ice.
- Top Forwards by Shots Against (per 60 mins):
- Juraj Slafkovsky: 52.09
- Nick Suzuki: 52.63
The improvement is significant compared to other forwards on the roster, making Slafkovsky an essential asset for the Habs both offensively and defensively. His defensive prowess becomes even more apparent when he plays alongside fellow forwards Cole Caufield and Suzuki.
Shot Blocking and Physical Play
One of the key metrics that reinforces Slafkovsky’s case for penalty killing is his shot-blocking ability. He leads all Habs forwards with 25 blocked shots at even strength, outpacing Suzuki, who has 19. He ties Kirby Dach for the highest number of blocks per game at 0.9. This proficiency is critical in a penalty-killing role, where blocking shots is paramount.
Additionally, Slafkovsky is among the most physical players on the team, tied with Josh Anderson for second in 5-on-5 hits, totaling 52. His ability to deliver solid hits can disrupt the attacking players on opposing power plays.
Potential Role on the Penalty Kill
Slafkovsky’s skating ability also lends itself well to penalty killing. He excels at moving the puck out of the defensive zone, further enhancing his candidacy for this role. With the Canadiens’ penalty kill percentage currently standing at 77.2%, integrating Slafkovsky could provide the shake-up needed to improve this facet of their game.
As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Slafkovsky is increasingly reminiscent of his hockey idol, Marian Hossa. The Canadiens could greatly benefit from utilizing him in penalty-killing efforts to enhance their defensive play.
Fans are left wondering: should Slafkovsky be given a chance on the penalty kill? His combination of skills could make a significant difference for the struggling Montreal Canadiens.
