Canucks Strategy: Optimizing Carson Soucy and Tyler Myers for Team Success
The Vancouver Canucks face a problem with their second defense pairing of Carson Soucy and Tyler Myers. Both players have struggled this season, failing to move the puck effectively and often being pinned in their defensive zone. They have lost too many battles in front of the net, allowing key goals against.
At 5-on-5, the Canucks have a goal differential of minus-8 with Soucy and Myers on the ice. In contrast, their top pairing of Quinn Hughes and Filip Hronek boasts a plus-7 differential, indicating that the second pairing negates the advantages created by the top pairing. This season, Soucy and Myers have the lowest corsi percentage among NHL defense pairings, highlighting their struggles as shot attempts are heavily favored against them.
Both players have also struggled on the penalty kill, with Myers and Soucy being on the ice for a combined 15 power play goals against. Their performance has declined compared to last season when they were effective in tough matchups.
Head coach Rick Tocchet has noted recent improvements in Myers’s play but emphasized that Soucy needs a boost in confidence. Sticking with their current pairing may not be a viable long-term plan, prompting discussion about possible changes.
1 | Hope They Improve
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The Canucks might choose to be patient and wait for Soucy and Myers to regain their form. This strategy relies on simple, basic plays like keeping the front of the net clear and making safe clears. However, this approach risks further losses.
2 | Trade for a Top-Four Defenseman
A trade for a top-four defenseman seems inevitable as the Canucks aim to improve. One name rumored in trade discussions is Marcus Pettersson of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He offers experience and stability but has also faced challenges this season. The Canucks may consider other trade options as well.
3 | Call-Up a Young Defenseman
What if the Canucks promoted their promising prospect, Elias Pettersson, to the NHL? Though a significant jump from the AHL, this move could inject new talent if he’s ready for the challenge.
4 | Rearrange Current Pairings
Another option is to split Soucy and Myers. Tocchet has already experimented with pairing them with Hughes and Hronek. However, this sometimes leads to both elite and struggling pairs rather than improving overall performance.
5 | Adjust the Bottom Pairing
Instead of changing the top pair, the Canucks could look at improving their bottom pair. Erik Brännström’s good play since being called up suggests he might handle a more significant role, potentially pairing with Myers.
6 | Mix and Match Soucy and Myers
A different approach could involve splitting Soucy and Myers between different pairings to blend their strengths. This idea, however, raises questions about practicality and adherence to contracts.
7 | Create a Motivation Strategy
The Canucks could consider boosting Soucy and Myers’s morale. A motivational tactic might involve convincing them they will be traded to a team that values their contributions, ultimately improving their confidence and performance.
8 | Explore Free Agency
Finally, the Canucks could look at free agency for experienced defensemen like Mark Giordano, John Klingberg, or Kevin Shattenkirk. While they carry some risk, their prior experience could bring stability to the roster.