Where to Go From Here
The Carolina Hurricanes need to figure out their future
Slowing down the play and setting up at the net are the tools the Hurricanes need to win game four. While the only positive today was excellent goaltending by Petr Mrazek, the good news is that the series is far from over. Fortunately, the Bruins have not played at their best either this series and that the Hurricanes only need to make a few adjustments to take game four.
First, as mentioned before, the Hurricanes had trouble slowing the game down and entering the Bruins’ defensive zone with a plan. With the Bruins’ defensive line holding down the fort along with Halak, these offensive rushes were as good as nullified.
The Hurricanes cannot use their offensive talent without an effort to establish the forecheck and keep the puck alive in the offensive zone. By setting the pace and establishing their presence, the Hurricanes will find themselves on the scoreboard without difficulty.
Williams says Bruins have a "lot of pedigree, lot of playoff experience," and they pushed back hard after the first period.
— Chip Alexander (@ice_chip) August 15, 2020
Another note on the offensive front is setting up at the net and forcing scoring opportunities. Halak is without a doubt an elite goalie and showed his playoff pedigree today; however, a goalie is only as good as their ability to prepare for a shot. The Hurricanes need to establish a net-front presence and prevent Halak from setting up in the shooting angle.
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Too often today the Hurricanes shoot the puck without a clear rebound scenario that would allow them to get some momentum and confidence. I will always favor shooting the puck at any given opportunity, but the playoff desperation comes in to play to secure a rebound and catch the goalie out of position.
Every Caniac who tuned in today is disappointed in the result; however, the Hurricanes did not make it to the first round without deserving to be in the position that they are in. I believe in this team, and I believe that the Hurricanes can harness their desperation and take game four.
Question for CC readers: Which players do you think need to make way for the guys on the wings and sit out the next game or two?