San Jose Sharks: 3 keys to victory against the Golden Knights
By Justin Fried
2. Match Vegas’ Physicality
It’s no secret that the Vegas Golden Knights are one of the most aggressive, physical teams in the NHL. They are forceful with their forecheck and choose to play a high-octane style of hockey where they don’t allow their opponents to get too settled, especially in their defensive zone.
If the Sharks are going to win this upcoming series, they’re going to have to counteract Vegas’ physical play with some aggressiveness of their own.
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San Jose should look to take advantage of the Golden Knights over-aggressive tendencies and beat them in the transition game. Fast-breaks and neutral-zone play are critical to the Sharks finding success against the Golden Knights.
The Sharks must avoid getting trapped in their own defensive zone by Vegas’ aggressive forecheck and instead look to beat the Golden Knights at their own game. If Vegas puts the pressure on, send that pressure right back at them.
The Golden Knights will be looking to force turnovers in the Sharks defensive zone and San Jose has to remain calm and not force outlet passes that aren’t there. Transitioning smoothly out of the defensive zone and into the neutral zone will be key for the Sharks in this series.
If the Sharks could find a way to turn Vegas’ major strength into a key weakness, San Jose could very well find themselves moving on to the next round of the playoffs.