From an Xs & Os standpoint, the Calgary-Edmonton and Carolina-New York series will look quite similar.
On the one hand, expect CGY & CAR, two of the best forechecking teams in the league, to hem EDM and NYR in their zones for long stretches via effective dump & chase, shoot & retrieve plays. On the other hand, expect EDM and NYR hold their own on the scoreboard by being opportunistic on counter-attacks and power plays.
The Oilers and Rangers will depend on special plays by special players.
The Flames and Hurricane instead look to control the game via tenacious up-ice pressure.
CGY’s OZ Rotation
The Flames’ well-rehearsed off-puck play allows the team to kill exits, win 50/50 pucks and turn them into quick in-zone attacks.
Instead of the traditional LW-C-RW with each forward in his lane, Calgary Fs are constantly rotating as F1-F2-F3.
Here’s how they do it.