The approach is twofold. If the defensemen scurry up the ice and keep their gaps tight, they’ll be in better position to support the attack.
At the other end, assuming tight gaps, there won’t be as much area in the neutral zone for opponents to exploit. When gaps are too loose, other teams can generate more speed in center ice and leave the defensemen flat-footed.
Keeping tighter gaps should be aided by another core Julien belief: keeping a third forward high in the offensive zone. If that forward is positioned correctly, he’ll be a safety valve if the defensemen are up the ice. That way, the Bruins can reduce chances for opposing odd-man rushes.
“Our Ds can get that confidence if our third man is high, he can backcheck properly, and at least give them some confidence to stand up a little bit more at the blue line,’’ said Julien.
The Bruins have the defensive personnel to promote up-ice support. Joe Corvo, Andrew Ference, Dennis Seidenberg, Steven Kampfer, and Zdeno Chara have the wheels to go hard both ways. Johnny Boychuk and Adam McQuaid are more stay-at-home types.
Second thoughts Because of the retirement of Mark Recchi, the Bruins will consider several replacements on the second line. Rich Peverley and Tyler Seguin are the leading candidates to serve as the new No. 2 right wing.
Regardless of who replaces Recchi, it will be up to Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron to reignite the spark they had last season.
“With Marshy, when we’re going to play together, we’re going to establish chemistry our way,’’ Bergeron said. “We’ve got to find a way to not take too much time to establish it. From there, have line chemistry with whoever’s going to be on the right side with us.’’
Last year, Bergeron scored 22 goals and had 35 assists. Marchand punched in 21 goals and had 20 helpers.
The line will miss Recchi’s net-front presence and veteran savvy. But both Peverley and Seguin would be speedier options on the right side.
