John Tavares has not recorded a shot on goal in consecutive games for the first time in over a year.
The 32-year-old center stated, “You attempt to hold yourself to a high level.” “Things have not been horrible, but I can absolutely continue to develop my game.”
In four games played over the previous week, Tavares had only two secondary assists at 5-on-5.
Just expecting him to spend more time in the attacking zone would be significant, according to coach Sheldon Keefe. Putting Mitch Marner on that line will undoubtedly be beneficial.
In the third period of Friday’s game against the Carolina Hurricanes, Keefe paired Marner with Tavares and Michael Bunting and was pleased with the results. Saturday night against the Ottawa Senators, he did not believe this trio was as productive.
“John has played a great deal with Mitch, and Mitch has played a great deal with Bunts, so I anticipate this line to really take off,” Keefe said.
Tavares may rely on his history with Marner, but he lacks such a history with Bunting.
“We’ve discussed the fact that we both enjoy being online,” Tavares admitted. “So, we must ensure that we have adequate space and that we’re reading off each other so that we can neutralize the opponent in the attacking zone.”
Tavares has not scored in four consecutive games, but he has four assists in the last two. The teammates were somewhat taken aback when asked about a perceived dry period.
Veteran defender Mark Giordano stated, “I don’t know what ‘dried up’ means.” In our minds, he’s constantly close to scoring, therefore it’s only a matter of time before he scores.
Defenseman Justin Holl stated, “I haven’t really noticed that he’s been in a scoring slump.” In addition to scoring, he contributes to our success in several other ways.
Tavares is often a paragon of constancy despite what the statistics indicate.
“He simply follows his schedule,” added Keefe. “In terms of it returning, the only thing that works is to have faith in your habits and skills. We do not need to overstate the significance of the situation.”
Tavares stated, “I simply try not to do too much.” “I believe it comes down to ensuring that I am powerful in all three zones and that you are above the puck. When you have it, it’s a matter of simplification and focusing on the initial play while avoiding overcomplication. For me, it’s keeping my feet moving and attempting to play down the middle of the ice, among other things.”
It’s probable that exhaustion had a role during the weekend. The game on Saturday concluded a streak of five games in eight days.
“We’re a more rested squad today,” Keefe remarked. “Today, a unique possibility has presented itself, therefore I’m searching for ways to move in that direction.”
Earlier this month, Tavares skipped a game at the conclusion of a lengthy road trip because he felt “tired” and not like himself.
“It’s a long season,” Tavares remarked. “It’s a grind, so there are moments when things are very wonderful and in rhythm, and other times when you’re simply building habits shift after shift, executing, and assisting the team and setting up the next group for success.”
Giordano missed his first game of the season on Saturday evening in Ottawa.
“Due to the number of injuries we’ve endured over the season, we’ve had to employ him more than anticipated. Now that we’re healthier and have more depth than ever before, we can make prudent decisions “Keefe elucidated.
“I understand,” replied the 39-year-old. “We have a lot of depth at every position, but notably at the back end where there are so many players. I recently had a productive chat with the coaches and am aware of the situation. Yet, as a gamer, you will constantly desire to play. It stinks to observe. But it’s very evident that we have nine players that can play, so we must rotate them in and out.”
Giordano made it plain earlier in the season that he would not miss games due to load management, and he dismissed the notion he needed rest on Tuesday.
“It’s more for the team,” stated the native of Toronto. “With all the bodies we have and all the men we need to get in the lineup, I believe there will be a rotation with players coming and departing on any given night.”
Timothy Liljegren has also at times been the odd man out.
Gustafsson was scratched after playing what Keefe described as his greatest game as a Maple Leaf the night before.
Friday’s game versus the Hurricanes was missed by Holl.
“It’s a strange sensation because whenever you’re out, even unconsciously, you know, ‘This isn’t right,'” Holl said. “You wish you were playing. Yet, the message has been that there would be a rotation to keep players fresh. This is essential to remember. That is not performance-based for many of these men.”
Schenn will join Brodie on the sidelines on Tuesday, allowing Gustafsson and Giordano to return.