Blue Jackets Overhaul Strategy to Enhance Performance Beyond Struggling Special Teams
The Columbus Blue Jackets are re-evaluating their strategies to improve their performance as they prepare to face the Colorado Avalanche. Recent practice sessions have focused heavily on special teams, particularly the power play and penalty kill, which have not met expectations this season.
Focus on Special Teams Improvement
Head coach Dean Evason is not hitting the panic button but is demanding higher standards from his players. The Blue Jackets have performed well in five-on-five situations, outscoring opponents 8-1 early in the season. However, the struggles on special teams have raised concerns, prompting changes in personnel and strategy.
Power Play Struggles
- The Blue Jackets have scored just once in nine power play opportunities, highlighting the need for improvement.
- Evason noted a lackadaisical approach during their recent power play performance against New Jersey, where they failed to generate scoring chances.
- Changes to the power play unit include:
- Zach Werenski remains at the point with Kirill Marchenko on the half-wall.
- Charlie Coyle replaces Sean Monahan at the bumper position.
- Dmitri Voronkov has replaced Boone Jenner at the net front.
Penalty Kill Concerns
The penalty kill has also faced challenges, allowing seven goals in its opening matches. Despite this, players believe they are making progress.
- Key personnel includes Boone Jenner and Sean Monahan, who are pivotal in defensive situations.
- Evason emphasizes maintaining an aggressive penalty kill approach, even after recent mistakes led to goals against.
Line Changes and Player Performance
As part of the overhaul, there have been notable line changes. Kent Johnson has been promoted to the first line, joining Sean Monahan and Kirill Marchenko. The adjustments aim to boost productivity among players still seeking their first points.
- Adam Fantilli and Cole Sillinger will support Voronkov on the second line.
- Due to an eye injury, Miles Wood’s absence opens a spot for Yegor Chinakhov, marking his season debut.
- Combining different line combinations is intended to spark better performances across the board.
Coaching Philosophy
Evason continues to push for improvement in both special teams and overall team performance. He believes aggression in their game plan will eventually yield positive results.
The Blue Jackets hope that these changes will enhance their performance against the Colorado Avalanche as they aim to turn their season around.
