The Toronto Maple Leafs’ power play took a significant step forward in a thrilling 7-5 victory over the Ottawa Senators. The much-criticized power play had struggled throughout the season, but changes made after the firing of assistant coach Marc Savard appear to be making a difference. With Derek Lalonde and Steve Sullivan now at the helm, the Leafs scored two power-play goals on their first two shots during the game.
Impact of Coaching Changes on the Power Play
After the dismissal of Savard, whose management of the power play had been under scrutiny, the Leafs received a fresh perspective. This revitalization included new positioning and strategies that had players moving with purpose. Matthew Knies, who scored twice, emphasized the positive impact of the coaching changes.
Key Contributors in the Win
- Auston Matthews led the offense with his first three-point game of the season.
- William Nylander, despite leaving the game with a lower body injury, managed to score a goal.
- Other scorers included Bobby McMann, Nick Robertson, and John Tavares.
The Leafs greatly outshot the Senators, marking a rare occurrence this season, with a total of 33 shots compared to Ottawa’s 31. This marked a turning point in their offensive strategy.
Evaluating the Senators’ Weaknesses
Despite the Leafs’ triumph, it is important to note that the Senators’ penalty kill ranks among the lowest in the league, successfully stopping only 71.7% of penalties. Additionally, starting goaltender Linus Ullmark struggled throughout the first two periods before being replaced.
Execution and Attitude Shift
The new emphasis on swift puck movement led to improved execution on the power play. The first goal came just 40 seconds into the man advantage, showcasing their newfound urgency. Knies remarked on the team’s collective mindset, describing it as more aggressive and free-flowing.
Looking Ahead
With the season approaching its midpoint, the Leafs still sit at the bottom of the Atlantic Division. However, the recent success of their power play may provide a springboard for improvement. As the team prepares for upcoming challenges, including a road game against the Detroit Red Wings, the focus will be on maintaining this momentum.
The revitalized power play, characterized by quick execution and a progressive mindset, could be crucial in steering the team back into contention. The Leafs are poised for a more productive season if they can sustain their recent improvements.
