What needs to change for Martin Necas to be a more aggressive shooter? | DNVR Avalanche Mailbag
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The DNVR Avalanche Podcast dives into a deep mailbag-style discussion following the Colorado Avalanche's 2-0 series lead over the Los Angeles Kings in the playoffs. Hosts AJ and Rudo analyze the team's offensive struggles, particularly focusing on Martin Necas's shot selection and lack of aggression despite leading the team in shots on goal. They debate whether Necas needs to be more assertive in shooting, especially in high-leverage moments, and contrast his play with the high-octane success of his Olympic performance. The conversation also explores broader themes: the Avalanche's defensive excellence, the impact of goaltending (especially Anton Forsberg), the physicality surge across the NHL playoffs, and potential lineup adjustments—such as moving Ross Colton into the top six for offensive punch and defensive grit. The hosts express cautious optimism, emphasizing that while finishing is a concern, the team’s process and defensive structure are sound. They also reflect on fan expectations post-2022 Cup, the importance of mental toughness, and the idea that the Kings series is serving as valuable preparation for a potential matchup with Dallas or Minnesota.
Martin Necas must become more aggressive in shooting, especially on breakaways and 3v1s, to maximize his offensive threat.
The Avalanche's defensive structure and goaltending are strong, but they need to improve finishing and puck possession in high-danger areas.
Ross Colton's offensive energy and physicality could be more valuable than Kiviranta's defensive reliability, especially in a high-intensity playoff series.
The Kings' defensive style—packing the middle and blocking shots—requires Colorado to stretch the ice and create space through east-west passing.
The Avalanche's 2022 Cup run has set a high bar, but current performance should be evaluated on its own merits, not through nostalgia.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening the Mailbag: Playoff Momentum and Series Outlook
The hosts kick off the episode with a positive outlook on the Avalanche's 2-0 series lead, praising their defensive structure, goaltending, and overall process. They acknowledge minor issues with finishing and penalties but remain confident in the team's ability to win.
Martin Necas's Offensive Dilemma: Aggression vs. Passing
“You can't just pass it into the defender so late that it goes right into Anton Forsberg. Yeah. That's not a backdoor play. It's going to work. Yep. He needed to shoot it.”
The Kings' Defensive Strategy and Avalanche's Response
The hosts break down how the Kings' defense, particularly their high number of block shots and rebound clearing, has limited Colorado's scoring chances. They discuss the need for better traffic, screen usage, and stretching the ice to break down the 'Little Square' defensive structure.
Surprises in the Playoffs: Physicality and Player Performances
The hosts express surprise at the sudden surge in physicality across the NHL playoffs, contrasting it with the regular season. They highlight standout performances from Sam Malinsky and Brent Burns, who have embraced the playoff intensity with surprising effectiveness.
Lineup Debate: Colton vs. Kiviranta and the Need for Offensive Punch
“You can look at your bottom six and say our bottom six has given us two goals and it's still the area of the roster that we can make better.”
“Ross Colton can either... Every organization that has an interest in Ross Colton is watching this right now and saying... When he draws in, what does it look like? Go time.”
“This is not a 17 goal guy who had oh I had 25 this year. This is a 25 goal guy who had 38 right? Shoot the damn puck.”
“You can't just pass it into the defender so late that it goes right into Anton Forsberg. Yeah. That's not a backdoor play. It's going to work. Yep. He needed to shoot it.”
Hosts
Colorado Avalanche
other
Martin Necas
person
Los Angeles Kings
other
Nathan McKinnon
person
Ross Colton
person
Anton Forsberg
person
Brent Burns
person
Sam Malinsky
person
Jared Bednar
person
Parker Kelly
person
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