Jason Chen and Michael Amato make note that blocked shot totals are up while hit totals are down across the board. How does this change your banger league strategy?
The Sleepers and Keepers fantasy hockey podcast hosts Jason Chen and Michael Amato discuss why blocked shots have increased and hits have decreased.
Last season, nine players registered at least 250 hits. This season, only a couple are expected to hit that milestone.
Last season, only Brayden McNabb blocked at least 200 shots. This season, as many as five players may sacrifice their bodies just as many times.
With an emphasis on skill and shooting, it stands to reason that more teams are asking players to get in front of pucks.
And in line with John Tortorella's line about the NHL being a "no hit league," perhaps players are being more cautious of being caught of position in order to lay a big hit, or being wary of having to answer the bell following a clean hit.
Check out the full episode below on your preferred platform. New episodes drop every Monday at 11 a.m. ET.
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