The Montreal Canadiens’ Max Pacioretty is a driving offensive force whose game starts behind his own blue line. He makes good use of his size and speed as he takes advantage of the open space between the attacking defenders.

BREAKOUT 1: The Turnover

Pacioretty is consistently thinking offence. As soon as that pass leaves the Sens’ stick, he begins to turn out to cover his point, and in doing so, he puts himself in a strong breakout position in the open space between the two attacking defenders.

As soon as the pass is intercepted, Paciroetty turns on the speed and exploits the gap between the attacking defenders.

In the picture below, we notice that the Ottawa Senators pay little respect to Pacioretty’s speed and try to cut him off early (took the blue path, should have take the red one).

This is where the size of a power forward shows itself. While keeping his feet moving, Pacioretty muscles the defender off and blows right past him.

One on one and without position, it is next to impossible to get the puck off of a power forward without taking a penalty.

BREAKOUT 2: The Defensive Coverage Breakdown

Once recovered by the Sens, the puck is moved back to the point to open up offensive options. Unfortunately, none are found so a shot is sent towards the net. The Sens defender had more time than he thought here, but he rushed his shot and as any shot made in haste, it lacked both power and accuracy. The first line of defence for the whites had no problem intercepting the shot and transitioning the play.

As soon as the shot is let go, Pacioretty is thinking offence and skates right into his favourite breakout area.

The pass is made and off he goes.

With the defenders playing so far apart, there’s no way to make up for the last mistake.

Goal.