Free extension for sports fans

The Boston Bruins don’t just want to win faceoffs. They want to know what happens next

No statistical event happens more at hockey games than draws at the dot. What goes into teams preparing for the puck to drop, and after?

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 10:30 AM
The Boston Bruins don’t just want to win faceoffs. They want to know what happens next
Key Things to Know
  • Boston Bruins coach Marco Sturm is prioritizing structured team execution immediately following faceoff wins.
  • A January 15 play against the Seattle Kraken showed a deliberate post-draw sequence initiated by Morgan Geekie's faceoff win.
  • Defensemen Nikita Zadorov and Henri Jokiharju executed a planned rim pass to trigger a three-forward forecheck.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Boston Bruins coach Marco Sturm is focusing on tactical execution immediately following faceoff wins rather than just winning the draw itself. Reviewing video from a January 15 game against the Seattle Kraken, Sturm highlighted how specific post-faceoff plays are designed to establish offensive-zone possession through structured forechecking routes.

In the reviewed sequence, Morgan Geekie won a neutral-zone draw against Shane Wright, allowing defensemen Nikita Zadorov and Henri Jokiharju to execute a set rim play. Forwards Alex Steeves, Fraser Minten, and Geekie then converged to battle for possession along the boards, demonstrating Sturm's detailed approach to high-frequency faceoff situations.

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.