AP
The way the Maddogs (4-2-1) have played over the past few games, it’s hard to imagine they could be in contention to regain their place atop the B2 division. A blazing fast start followed by lackluster play has the Maddogs lumped together with five other teams. In fact, only three points separate 1st place from 6th.
Tonight they face the 1st place Mayhem (5-1-1) after a long break for each team. A lot has been discussed over this time, and we’ve heard there will be new lines tonight to hopefully get the team back on track.
Ultimately, the Dogs have stopped playing basic hockey. If they are to get back to their winning ways, they’ll need to keep it simple by:
- Getting OFF the ice no longer than 1:00 for your shift. Don’t be selfish.
- Defense: Don’t let guys just stand in front of Larry. Move them out. Make sure if you have the puck in the defensive zone, hit the open forward for the breakout. Watch your turnovers. If nothing is available, just send it down the ice. And get off the ice within 1:00.
- Offense: You need to play more two way hockey. Actually, we have not been doing this much at all. You better be in the defensive zone if we don’t have posession. And the center is going to need to be more defensive minded throughout the game. Move the puck around. Lastly, if the defensemen skates the puck up, make sure that wing DROPS BACK. And get off the ice within 1:00.
- Goalie: Just play goalie and do what you can to stop the puck and limit rebounds. No need to talk to the refs after/during each play. Goalies shouldn’t have more penalty minutes than most of the team.
Overall, I think it’s clear there are issues with this club, but nothing they can’t overcome. Just get back to the basics and have some fun.
The HO Chunk has the Mayhem as a 2 goal favorite. Unreal.