The Not-1-3-1

CAR's Shape-Shifting vs. NYR

The Carolina Hurricanes’ first power-play unit has a number of savvy playmakers but lacks a shooter who can consistently pound one-timers through opposing netminders.

Consequently, CAR deploys flank players on their strong sides (lefty on the left, righty on the right) and employs two set plays to create high-danger chances against the New York Rangers’ diamond PK.

NYR’s Diamond PK

Against high player and puck movement:

• F1 gets into the shooting lane

• F2 prevents a lateral pass to the opposite flank

• D1 boxes out net-front

• D2 covers the back side and retreats to the net as the puck goes downhill

NYR has three players occupying the high slot, valuable real estate for CAR’s power play. To create a scoring chance, then, the Hurricanes will need to tease apart NYR’s structure and play behind the defenders.

CAR Variation 1: High Strong-Side Flank to Bumper

In a diamond PK, F1 and F2 are effective at preventing flank carries toward the slot (as in the image above), but can be caught off with quick diagonal puck movement.