Let's look at the Habs' power play units
The Montreal Canadiens' power play has been a stumbling block in recent seasons. The Habs finished 8th out of 16 teams in power play percentage in the playoffs after ranking 17th in the regular season. The Canadiens' power play goals in the playoffs were timely, despite their 18.9% conversion rate. Some may recall the 2-0 power play goal against the Leafs in Game 7.
With She Weber leaving the power play and Mike Hoffman joining it, the Canadiens coaching staff may struggle to find the ideal combination of players to ensure that both power play units can make an impact. The Canadiens have more firepower than previous seasons and should be able to dominate games with a man advantage if used properly.
Let's take a look at the Habs' potential power play units 1 and 2 in 2021-22.
Newpage
Power Play 1:
Formation: 1-3-1 Umbrella
Caufield-Gallagher- Hoffman
Suzuki-Petry
With Shea Weber out, Burrows and co. can generate a man advantage similar to Tampa Bay's with two one-timer possibilities.
Brendan Gallagher will undoubtedly be the net front presence on the first unit. As a result, he is perfectly suited to play that position with the man advantage.
Jeff Petry has established himself as an exceptional offensive defenseman in the NHL. Petry, as a power play quarterback, could feed both one-timer spots while also having a shot of his own. Lagniappe's speed at the blueline will entice penalty killers and
Nick Suzuki is becoming a quality NHL playmaker and a reliable point scorer with the man advantage. Suzuki's slot position allows him to transfer the puck to either one-timer spots on the half walls and shoot. That's what his vision and creativity do.
Caufield and Hoffman should play on opposing half walls, giving Suzuki and Petry one-timer possibilities. With two dangerous shooters, the Canadiens should have a formidable power play.
Newpage
Power Play 2:
Formation: 1-2-2
Toffoli-Anderson-Kotkaniemi
Romanov-Drouin
Toffoli has a deceptively quick release, while Kotkaniemi's off-wing one-timer is underestimated. Who will fill the net front duty now that the shooting roles are covered?
Josh Anderson, a 6'3′′ 226 pound winger. Andreas Anderson has shown the Canadiens' fans his heavy style of play and scoring ability. His hefty stature and silky hands would allow him to screen opposing goaltenders and pounce on lost pucks.
Romanov's attacking talent and strong shot have been demonstrated, and his confidence with the puck will develop. Together with Drouin, they can work the puck through the seams to the two one-timers on the half boards. If the seams are removed, Drouin can set up Romanov for a one-timer.
Credit: AwinningHabit
