MLive’s Ansar Khan filed a pre-game article ahead of tonight’s game vs. the Columbus Blue Jackets in which he discusses Detroit’s preseason power play prowess under new assistant coach Alex Tanguay’s guidance:
During Jeff Blashill’s six seasons as head coach, the Red Wings’ power play ranks last in the NHL cumulatively at 16.3 percent. Previous assistant coaches Pat Ferschweiler and John Torchetti were replaced in large part due to an ineffective man-advantage.
A power play that was often stagnant last season is operating faster, with players shifting positions and moving the puck quickly.
“It’s been a big piece of what Alex has been trying to get them to do, take what’s given and move it quick,” Blashill said. “Eventually you’ll find a seam. Don’t force pucks. I think we’ve done a pretty good job of that.
“Our power plays early in the preseason weren’t great. Once we got a good one and saw what they looked like we started to build confidence. It’s a positive for that to go well, regardless if it’s preseason because it builds confidence.”
After the Red Wings went 4 for 5 on the power play in Monday’s 6-4 loss to Chicago, rookie Lucas Raymond said the key was good lateral movement and seam passes.
