Good question from @LLysowski on the 26/23 pair how Don balances eyes vs the numbers. Don’s response on the analytics: “Analytics are tough b/c there are so many analytics. There are so many variables that you can question some of the integrity in some of the analytics” (1/?)
Good question from @LLysowski on the 26/23 pair how Don balances eyes vs the numbers.
Don’s response on the analytics:
“Analytics are tough b/c there are so many analytics. There are so many variables that you can question some of the integrity in some of the analytics” (1/?) https://t.co/JGXZS5ktvl
— Chad DeDominicis (@CMDeDominicis) December 28, 2023
by xBialyOrzel
8 Comments
“Ya ok I get it. There are variables but this answer to me was a cop out IMO and sign of not understanding what the numbers could be telling him or not really caring. Quick dismissal of their potential value or how they can help in decision making is of concern
(2/3)”
Big yikes
I understand his view. There are many analytics. How many of them have been validated? I’m sure some are valuable. I will say my eye test tells me Dahling has regressed defensively: give aways, late coverage, chasing behind the net whilst on PK. Power has regressed: soft on back check, prefers using stick vs body on corners. Net front coverage a joke. Neutral zone play is soft..Offensively passing through defenders instead of shooting.
I question the integrity of some of our coaches
This reminds me of when a former vice-presidential candidate was asked “So what are some of your favorite books?” They responded with something to the effect of “Well, there’s just so many books. I like all of them.”
It’s the sort of moment where someone who really knows their shit will give ONE specific example and then explain the who, what, where, when, and why of the example they provided.
This gives me the sense that adams and granato aren’t on the same page here, granato not listening to the analytics department that has been built is concerning especially in a time like now
God dammit I’m gonna fucking be wrong about this dude aren’t I
Okay, here’s my problem. It’s not about Samuelsson, it’s about Dahlin.
Dahlin is a dominant player in the modern NHL. But, that’s because dominance from defense in the modern NHL is about offensive possession. He makes smart passes, he has speed, his shot is improving, and his puck possession skills at the offensive blueline are absolutely top of the line.
Trying to pair him with Samuelsson is messing with both of them. Samuelsson is not dominant. He is a grinder. He wants to pin the puck on the boards. He wants to block some shots. He wants to poke-check. He still does not hit as much as I want him to, but fine.
The puck can only be in one zone. Samuelsson is strongest when it’s in our zone. Dahlin is strongest when it’s in their zone.
Dahlin and Power should be the top pairing. They compliment each other. Teams cannot *cheat* off of one because the other is also a transition threat. They are the obvious offensive zone pair. They can gather and attack, but neither is great at grinding.
Then Ryan Johnson and Jokiharu as a second pair, for now.
In a year, maybe Power can really carry a second pair, and you can swap Ryan Johnson to Dahlin’s pair because of his elite decision-making. Then make a real, bold decision about your 4th defenseman to pair with Power.
Then Clifton and Samuelsson. Maybe find another 3rd pair defenseman who you trust with Sammy for defensive zone grinds. Their goal won’t be to transition to offense. It will be to withstand pressure and dump the puck out on defensive zone face-offs.
I bought into Granato’s “everyone should be able to play with everyone” spiel last year. But it makes no sense, really. The NHL is about roles. Dahlin and Power shouldn’t be looking over their shoulder not being aggressive.
Also, it seems like Granato has moved Dahlin back to LD and Sammy RD this season, which I really do not understand. It would be like moving Thompson back to wing. Dahlin is better as a RD.
tl;dr Dahlin shuts down opposition because he is a dominant player who makes teams worry about playing defense. Sammy invites pressure deep in the zone. Both can work, but not together.