Maple Leafs Consider Revamping Power Play After Poor Performance Against Capitals
The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing significant challenges with their power play performance. As of a recent game against the Washington Capitals, the team ranked 30th in the NHL, with a mere 15 percent success rate on power plays. Entering the match, optimism existed because, just before, Auston Matthews had scored during a power play against the Chicago Blackhawks.
However, during the game against the Capitals, the Leafs failed to score on five power play opportunities. This further decreased their effectiveness on the man advantage, bringing their success rate down to just 14 percent—slightly ahead of the Calgary Flames, who have a 13.8 percent rate.
Frustration in the Locker Room
After the 4-0 loss, head coach Craig Berube expressed his dissatisfaction. He mentioned, “The power play has actually been getting better, but tonight it was god awful, in my opinion.” He acknowledged that while some players had good chances, the top unit failed to execute and win critical battles.
Historical Context of Maple Leafs’ Power Play
In previous seasons, the Maple Leafs had one of the most potent power plays in the league, often making opponents pay for penalties. Now, the situation has reversed. Opponents appear to dominate the ice during power plays against Toronto, making it difficult for the Leafs to generate shots.
- Five power plays against the Capitals resulted in just five shots.
- Three of those shots came from the second power play unit.
Execution and Improvement Needed
Players, including Matthews and John Tavares, voiced concerns about the current execution of the power play. Matthews noted the lack of quality passes during their attempts. “It’s like one, two passes, and then the next one’s not a good one,” he explained.
Tavares reiterated that the team needs more determination to create scoring opportunities. The Maple Leafs have had 85 power play opportunities this season but have capitalized only 12 times, the lowest in the NHL. This raises questions about potential changes in personnel to improve their effectiveness.
Berube confirmed these discussions, stating, “Yeah, it could be… That’s something we’ll definitely look at.” With stars like Matthews, Nylander, and Tavares, the expectation is that scoring opportunities should be easier to convert. However, without immediate changes, the team may continue to struggle.
