Babcock isn’t pushing Maple Leafs to be pacifists
The last time the Maple Leafs earned enough points to make the playoffs, credit went in part to a league-leading total in fighting majors and penalty minutes.
Whatever year Mike Babcock’s club makes a return visit to the post-season, it’s a good bet the needle will be going in the opposite direction. Not pointed all the way towards pacifism, but to the Leafs showing their mettle with gloves and sticks firmly attached, while executing the Babcock system.
Through most of the coach’s 10 years in Detroit, the Red Wings didn’t carry an enforcer and averaged 22% fewer penalties than the league median. And while their actual times short-handed could fluctuate, Detroit’s penalty-killers generally applied the same puck possession principles as their five-on-five play to remain one of the top units in the NHL.
“You want to stay out of the box if you possibly can and, if you’re skating and have the puck, you don’t take as many penalties,” Babcock reminded the press gang.
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