Two huge factors this year are Knies and Pacioretty. They are both big strong bodies going to the net, creating room, causing havoc, taking the body, and generally drawing attention to the net front which is actually creating some space for our skill players. We’ve never had it at this level before. We no longer look like a total perimeter team.
Secondly, we had a 6-3 advantage last night in rush chances. The long pass has worked as an option. The Florida d, while very big, is not the most mobile or effective puck moving group. I actually don’t think it’s as good as last year. I’d personally take Brandon Montour over Seth Jones, and OEL is a better puck mover than what’s on their bottom pair.
