For three seasons, between 2005-06 to 2007-08, the Montreal Canadiens were the owners of one the best power plays in the National Hockey League, ranking fifth in 2005-06, and fist in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
With Andrei Markov, Sheldon Souray, and later on Mark Streit, the Habs were never short of top-flight offensive defensemen during the man advantage.
Add in quality forwards such as Saku Koivu, Mike Ribeiro, Michael Ryder, Alex Kovalev, Chris Higgins, and many more, you have the makings of a dominant power play.
Out of all those names, the one that stands out the most is the name of the best puck-handler in the NHL, Alexei Kovalev. With an outstanding wrist shot from the right faceoff circle, dazzling hands, and great vision, you have one of the most dangerous players in the league on the man advantage.
The native of Togliatti, Russia, has made a name for himself with those attributes, and he was adored by the Montreal crowd, and fittingly dubbed "L'Artiste" (The Artist) by the Habs faithful.
However, any team with Kovalev on the roster must deal with the personal baggage that he brings with him.
Often describe ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Felix Sicard
Montreal Canadiens’ Power Play Misses Alex Kovalev Dearly
November 11th, 2009 by Felix Sicard Leave a reply »
Advertisement