Perhaps the most exciting part of the Canadiens preseason game tonight vs the Toronto Maple Leafs is that fans will be treated to an extra 5 minutes of 3 on 3 action, regardless of the score in the game. The NHL has arranged it so that each team will have a chance to play these extra 5 minutes of 3 on 3 during the preseason, with the Canadiens testing it again on Saturday night against Toronto and on October 3rd against Ottawa. This will give each and every team the same opportunity to strategize and experiment without worrying about getting two points and the win.
Habs players got their first taste of 3 on 3 play during the Red vs White inter squad scrimmage last Sunday and had some interesting comments, courtesy of Canadiens.com.
Lars Eller said:
“I like our strength [in those situations]. I always think one of our biggest assets as a team is our speed. I think it’s going to favor the fast teams because skating ability now is going to be more important than ever. It’s going to favor the teams that are fast. Now, there’s going to be a lot more room out there. The team with more skill, that wants to compete and work hard, it’s going to favor them. Teams that are good at holding onto the puck and making smart plays, I think it gives them an advantage. It’s an exciting format.…
Alex Galchenyuk added:
“The main thing, though, is that it’s pretty hard defensively. You can be a second slower and there could be a scoring chance, so you’ve got to be really aware out there.…
Yesterday after practice Carey Price commented (courtesy of Kevin Mio, Montreal Gazette):
“I don’t have a whole lot of experience with it other than shinny hockey in the off-season. And I know that’s not all that much fun for a goaltender,… Price said with a chuckle. “At the same time, everybody else is doing it so we just have to figure out a way to make it work for us.“I am kind of hoping to get a few more assists,… Price added.
Eller brings up a very good point, fast teams like the Canadiens and Tampa Lightning should do well with this new format. They will be quicker to the puck and should react faster as well. Conditioning will also play a big part in 3 on 3 overtime. I imagine shorter shifts with players going all out. I think this format was made for skilled players like Galchenyuk, unfortunately he won’t be in the lineup tonight. Look for Plekanec-Gallagher-Petry to be the first players sent on the ice by head coach Michel Therrien. I would be surprised if we see a strategy of 3 forwards by the Habs although it would certainly be fun…
For those going to any preseason or regular season games at the Bell Centre this year, take note that there are new security measures in place. Here is the message from the Canadiens:
As of September 22, 2015, with the presentation of the first Montreal Canadiens pre-season game, new measures will be implemented at all entrances to enhance security and deliver a smoother screening process when entering the Bell Centre. This new NHL procedure will be in place in all 30 NHL team venues. As a result, walk-through metal detectors will be placed at the various entrances for all events (hockey games, concerts and others) held at the Bell Centre. All patrons will be required to walk through the metal detectors similar to the WTMD used at most airports upon entering the Bell Centre. Patrons will be required TO PLACE THEIR MOBILE DEVICE ON A TABLE OR BIN TO THAT EFFECT before walking through the metal detector located at every Bell Centre entrance. Please note that in specific circumstances patrons could be the subject of a search by hand. Furthermore, we take this opportunity to remind every patron that: Back packs, briefcases and oversized suitcases are prohibited;It is forbidden to leave the building and re-enter using the same ticket; patrons will not be permitted to leave the building to smoke or for any other reason. These measures are meant to create a safe environment for all fans and patrons. Thank you for your co-operation.
Cheers & enjoy the game tonight!