Canadiens Analysis: How Slafkovsky Improved His Overall Play

With all the recent talk about who the Montreal Canadiens should target at the upcoming NHL Draft, let us look at the development of the Canadiens’ highest draft pick since 1980, Juraj Slafkovsky.

What started as a slow and concerning season ended in a red-hot run, with fans elated about the future.

Although point production is a great indicator of future success, today we will dive into the subtleties of his game that helped the 2022 first-overall pick take a massive jump forward in his development.

(Editor’s Note: I would like everyone to give a warm welcome to our newest analyst on Montreal Hockey Now, Cam Weitzman.  He will bring a unique viewpoint to the site, using his hockey background to offer important insight on key subjects.)

Juraj Slalfkovsky’s Defensive Prowess

Slafkovsky’s defensive play improved immensely throughout the season.

A good sign that someone is playing well defensively is when head coach Martin St-Louis trusts them to protect a lead during the dying moments of a game. One notable instance was during a December game against the New York Islanders, where the Canadiens held a one-goal lead, and St. Louis went with a forward line of Slafkovsky, Nick Suzuki, and Christian Dvorak in the last minute of the contest.

Not only were the trio able to maintain the lead, but with the help of Slafkovsky’s defensive play, they managed to put the game out of reach, thanks to an empty-net goal.

Why was Slafkovsky given this trust?

A big part of being able to defend effectively is the ability to break the puck out of the defensive zone, something Slafkovsky has done with more confidence as he gains experience in the NHL.

The hardest part of being a winger is receiving a pass on the half-wall and, within a split-second decision, needing to make the right play to get the puck out of the zone.

A task that seems simple is much more difficult when the opposing team is bearing down on you. One wrong decision with the puck can lead to a goal against.

Throughout the season, Slafkovsky’s poise and smart decision-making were on display. Whether it was making cross-ice passes to his defenseman or guiding a pass to Nick Suzuki to break the puck out of the zone, he took big strides in advancing the puck to the next zone. Not only does this help keep the puck out of his own zone, but it also leads to scoring chances for the Canadiens.