The Carolina Hurricanes conceded a shorthanded goal, a four-on-four goal and a power-play goal in the third period Friday night as the New York Rangers delivered a decisive dagger into their last lingering playoff hopes.
The meltdown was the lowest point yet in Carolina's special teams debacle, which, in recent weeks, has resembled less of the roller coaster that defined its first four months and more of an endless free-fall into nevermore.
In 28 power-play opportunities—although that word choice is generous—since the end of the Olympic break, the Hurricanes' man-advantage unit has scored zero goals and allowed four. Their season-long conversion rate of 12.6 percent ranks 29th in the NHL.
It's no longer a slump. It's a dysfunctional embarrassment.
And that traces a thick line back to the coaching staff.
The 'Canes have offensive talent on this roster, an offensive roster that has excelled elsewhere and showed dominant flashes at even strength.
Plenty of personnel have also received their chances on power play, from out-of-town additions ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Mark Jones
Coaching Staff to Blame After Power Play Again Dooms Carolina Hurricanes
March 7th, 2014 by Mark Jones Leave a reply »
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