John Tavares Moves to Maple Leafs’ Second Power Play Unit Against Canucks
In a strategic change before the game against the Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube revamped the power play units. The decision came as William Nylander returned to the lineup. Consequently, John Tavares was transitioned to the second power play unit.
Toronto Maple Leafs Power Play Strategy Change
Tavares, who is currently third on the team for power play points with five, was replaced by Nylander on the top unit alongside:
- William Nylander
- Matias Maccelli
- Matthew Knies
- Auston Matthews
- Morgan Rielly
The new second unit includes:
- Nicolas Roy
- Max Domi
- John Tavares
- Nick Robertson
- Oliver Ekman-Larsson
Berube acknowledged that shifting Tavares was a difficult choice but noted that the veteran forward could still excel in this new role. “It’s tough decisions,” he stated. The move was part of a broader adjustment following a struggling power play that once ranked last with only 12 goals on 92 opportunities before the holiday break.
Impact of Coaching Changes
Following the dismissal of power play coach Marc Savard, the Maple Leafs hired Steve Sullivan from the AHL’s Toronto Marlies. Since this change on December 26, Toronto’s power play has significantly improved, achieving a success rate of 35.7%. This recent performance places them second in the NHL, converting five out of 14 opportunities.
Currently, Auston Matthews leads the power play with three points (one goal, two assists), while Maccelli, Knies, and Nick Robertson each have two points. Tavares, Nylander, Rielly, Domi, and Bobby McMann follow with one point each.
Team’s Current Standing
The Maple Leafs are in strong form, maintaining a record of 6-0-2 over their last eight games. They are currently just two points shy of the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. The team is closely competing with the Buffalo Sabres, who sit one point ahead in the standings. The outcome of their matchups against the Canucks could heavily influence this race for the playoffs.
