Pittsburgh Penguins defense embracing new system
By Cory Buck
The Pittsburgh Penguins are implementing a new defensive system under first-year head coach Mike Johnston. Compared to the maze of moves that makes up former coach Dan Bylsma’s system, Johnston’s is bare-bones and defenseman Rob Scuderi is just fine with that.
More from NHL
- NHL Rumors: Legendary Patrice Bergeron retires, which 3 players could be next to hang up their skates?
- NHL Rumors: Latest on Hart, Hellebuyck, Gibson trade possibilities
- NHL Rumors: 5 forwards most likely to sign early extensions this summer
- NHL Rumors: Where things stand with Erik Karlsson, Penguins and Hurricanes
- NHL Rumors: Penguins nearly traded for Erik Karlsson at deadline
“It’s not completely different from Dan’s system,” Scuderi said via Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. “But sometimes when you’re going back to get the puck, it’s nice to have two options in your head instead of maybe three or four. It makes a big difference.”
While Bylsma and his complex system have a Stanley Cup ring to their credit, its message was clearly worn with the players by last year. As much as some admired the potential of Bylsma’s methods — defenseman Ben Lovejoy called the system a “thing of beauty” when it was working — it was too easy for the Pens defense to implode based on one tiny mistake.
Now the team can focus on one or two plays designed to move the puck up the ice and few if any players are complaining.
“I’ve got no problem with this system,” Scuderi added. “No issues for me. When we get to our blue line, that’s usually the end of my offensive contribution. But I’m still able to offer support up until our blue line. That’s what all coaches are promoting.”
More from Fansided.com
NHL Eastern Conference riddled with injuries
NHL Power Rankings: Every franchise statistically ranked all-time
NHL: 10 stadiums that should host an outdoor game
Sidney Crosby named NHL MVP favorite by oddsmaker