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The 2-3 OZP has gone from relative rarity three years ago to omnipresent.
Instead of the three forwards cycling the puck behind the net and going low-to-high for point shots, we now see two low forwards using cutbacks, slip passes and other high-skill moves to create space in the slot for active Ds and the high F3 skating downhill.
The Montreal Canadiens start in a 2-3. MTL54 Jordan Harris, the weak-side D, sneaks down the left flank and converts on his own rebound.
OTT7 Brady Tkachuk, the high F3, goes from center point to right post and scores on a one-timer.
The 2-3 OZP is great at creating unpredictable player movement and facilitating shots in high-danger areas. However, this is not the only (or even the foremost) reason why NHL coaches have been so keen to embrace this scheme.
Players love the 2-3 because it helps score more goals.
Coaches love the 2-3 because it’s a great defensive play.
Defensive Benefit to Attacking Downhill
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