Maple Leafs Discover Powerful Surprise in Defensive Pairing
The Toronto Maple Leafs have recently discovered a potent defensive pairing in Morgan Rielly and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, an arrangement that arose out of necessity. Initially, they weren’t expected to play together for extended periods. However, injuries to Chris Tanev and Brandon Carlo forced the coaching staff to shift their strategy.
Unexpected Partnership
The duo has emerged as a reliable partnership, contributing significantly to the team’s success. With Rielly and Ekman-Larsson consistently logging minutes together, the Leafs have achieved a 59.7% expected goals percentage in their five-on-five play, ranking them sixth among NHL defensive pairings this season.
Performance Metrics
The pair has accomplished the following:
- Generated 3.4 expected goals per 60 minutes (fifth best in the league).
- Allowed 2.3 expected goals against per 60 minutes (15th best).
- Recorded an impressive offensive-zone faceoff percentage of 76% (second highest among 60 defensive pairings).
Rielly and Ekman-Larsson: A Powerful Combo
In their recent outings, Rielly and Ekman-Larsson have demonstrated exceptional offensive synergy. Over the last five games, they have achieved:
- Goals for percentage: 67%
- Expected goals for percentage: 63%
- High-danger chances for percentage: 64%
As Rielly noted, their success can be attributed to their ability to read off each other effectively on the ice. The collaboration has allowed them to create numerous scoring opportunities while maintaining solid defensive play.
Impact of Coaching Strategy
With the guidance of assistant coach Mike van Ryn, the Leafs have strategically utilized Rielly and Ekman-Larsson to maximize offensive zone opportunities. This approach has contributed to their strong numbers, aligning with the coaching staff’s vision of an aggressive offensive strategy.
Future Considerations
Both Rielly and Ekman-Larsson are enjoying standout seasons, with Rielly on pace for 64 points and Ekman-Larsson projected to reach 57 points. The team faces an upcoming decision regarding their pairing when Tanev returns from injury.
Potential Defensive Adjustments
Multiple lineup options could emerge for the coaching staff:
- Option 1: Keep Rielly and Ekman-Larsson together, pair Tanev with McCabe, and assign Stecher to a third pairing.
- Option 2: Retain the Rielly-Ekman-Larsson duo, keep McCabe and Stecher together, and partner Tanev with Benoit.
- Option 3: Disband the current pairing but maintain Stecher with McCabe, move Tanev to Rielly, and revert Ekman-Larsson to a third pair.
The coaching staff will have critical decisions to make as they balance the potential fit of Ekman-Larsson with Rielly alongside returning players. Given their current success, it may influence their course of action moving forward.
