What the Dogs need today:
Strong Defensive Play: The Sea Dogs have allowed too many quality scoring chances in their early games. They need to tighten up their defense. Defenseman Caputo’s season debut for Saint John should help, but the entire defensive unit must play a more structured game, limiting odd-man rushes and closing gaps quickly to prevent dangerous chances.
Goalie Support: Charles-Edward Gravel was outstanding in the last game, making 45 saves, and he’ll likely need another strong performance tonight. However, the Sea Dogs need to support him better by reducing the volume of shots and limiting second-chance opportunities in front of the net. Clearing rebounds and winning battles in the crease will be critical.
Balanced Offense: While Tyler Peddle’s hat trick was a huge factor in their last win, the Sea Dogs need to continue getting contributions from multiple players. Nate Tivey has been a strong playmaker, and players like Elliot Dubé and William Yared need to keep producing to ensure that scoring threats come from multiple lines. Mateiko will also show what he can do as well after signing an entry level contract.. should make the offence interesting.
Special Teams: Saint John’s power play hasn’t been a huge factor yet, but this game could provide a great opportunity to improve it. Cape Breton’s penalty kill is struggling, running at just 50%, so the Sea Dogs should look to take advantage of their power play opportunities. At the same time, they’ll need to stay disciplined and avoid penalties, as Cape Breton could finally click on their power play. Thomas Lavoie is back in the line up for Cape and will bolster their blue line.
Play a Full 60 Minutes: The Eagles, despite their 0-3 record, have been competitive early in all games. Saint John must be ready from the opening faceoff, match Cape Breton’s intensity, and not let up through all three periods. Cape will be on the war path today. A slow start could give the Eagles confidence, which Saint John wants to avoid.
Neutral Zone Control: Winning the neutral zone battles will be crucial for the Sea Dogs. They need to disrupt Cape Breton’s transitions and prevent them from gaining speed through the middle of the ice. Saint John must also move the puck quickly through the neutral zone to create offensive rushes and prevent turnovers that lead to counter-attacks.
If Saint John can improve defensively, take advantage of special teams, and sustain pressure throughout the game, they’ll have a chance of securing their second win of the season. Cape will be hard on the puck trying to turn around the disappointing season start.
