vic wrote:
The fact that it is happening on EVERY SINGLE POWER PLAY should be an indication of this is how the coaching staff wants the players to exit the zone. Next thing we'll see is a defender blocking that drop pass and we'll be hearing AV talk about how other teams are adjusting and making it difficult for the Canucks to attack.
They use this play in order to gain the offensive zone on the PP, which isn't the issue with the powerplay.
The drop pass in the neutral zone is actually fairly effective, so much so that I've seen several other teams doing the same thing. The puck carrier draws one of the forwards creating a hole, he then stops (the forward does a well) and the supporting Canuck (usually a Sedin) can gain the zone much easier.
The problem with the Canucks powerplay isn't gaining the zone or even setting up on the outside, it's the complete lack of creativeness in order to draw the defenders out of their positions and produce quality scoring chances.
They need to use Garrison's bomb more often, and don't simply set him up for a one timer from the blue line, they need to get him one timing shots from the top of the circles. It's going to be much easier for him to hit the net and impossible for the goalie to control a rebound.
Then when the defending forwards cheat to take Garrison's shot away it will likely opening up odd man advantages down low where the Sedins are outstanding when they have time and space.
From my perspective the first PP should be the Sedins with Kassian and Bieksa and Garrison on the point.
Yes I do blame the coaching for our lack of PP success and they need to figure it out now. Hell, let the Sedins run a practice and get their input on what they would like to see. Hank is the captain for a reason, time to start working more with the players instead of simply telling them what to do.