The Montreal Canadiens are addressing significant defensive issues after allowing 27 goals this season, with 20 in the last four games. Head coach Martin St-Louis emphasizes the need for improved execution and aggression to reduce opponents’ scoring chances, acknowledging a lack of reaction time and hesitation among players. He is implementing a demanding hybrid defensive system, which requires adaptation and commitment from both rookies and veterans to enhance the team’s overall performance.
The Montreal Canadiens are grappling with noteworthy defensive challenges early in the season, prompting coach Martin St-Louis to seek solutions.
– Additional insights: A timely break
– Additional insights: Hesitations at the core of defensive issues
So far, the team has conceded 27 goals, with a staggering 20 of those coming in just the last four games. St-Louis attributes this to a need for better management and execution.
“Top teams create constant pressure, and we must continue to evolve in that direction. We have rookies needing guidance and young players who are not rookies from whom we expect more,” St-Louis emphasized.
“We need to close out games more effectively and prevent opponents from finding their rhythm. By doing so, we can limit many high-danger opportunities,” noted Alex Newhook.
The Issue of Hesitation
According to captain Nick Suzuki, a significant part of the problem is the hesitation players exhibit during critical moments.
“Hesitation allows the opposing team more space to operate. There are players in this league who will capitalize on any room you give them. Being assertive is vital to reducing our defensive workload,” Suzuki remarked.
St-Louis directly addressed the hesitation that has been evident in their defensive plays.
“Every situation is unique, but it all begins with the player. Some hesitations I can assist with, but when the decision is clear-cut, there should be no second-guessing. If you can’t distinguish between the two, then you may not belong in this league,” he explained.
“Establishing rhythm is essential, and that starts with a commitment to defense. Right now, our reaction times are not where they need to be. Players reach the right spots, but they give opponents too much time. It’s evident where they should go, but they often arrive late, and when they do, they don’t execute effectively.”
A Challenging System
The hybrid defensive system St-Louis is implementing is complex and comes with challenges, but it is a style increasingly adopted throughout the NHL.
“The league is trending in this direction. Should I consider a simpler approach? Perhaps. However, we need to focus on effectively shutting down plays at the blue line and in the face-off circles,” St-Louis stated, adding that he ensures players have ample opportunities to become comfortable with this system.
“Different players learn in diverse ways — some grasp concepts best through practice, others by observation, and some by listening to me. We cover all learning modalities, and if a player struggles to adapt, it usually results in reduced ice time. If we have four players doing their jobs and one is not, then the effort of all four is wasted, leading to unnecessary fatigue. Often, our exhaustion stems from not executing tasks promptly enough.”
Suzuki acknowledged that adapting to such a complex system takes time.
“We are still working on the finer points and need to improve our reads. Some younger players are new to this kind of system, but it will improve with time,” he concluded.