It’s only been three games, so a sample size warning is in effect, but so far, the combination of Kirby Dach and Sean MonahanThe front line is showing incredible underlying numbers. The two of them were on the ice at 5-on-5. CanadiensThe team has controlled almost 70% of the shot attempts and 63.3 percent, respectively, of the shots on target. They also control 73.3 percent expected goals. All of that has only resulted in a 1-0 advantage in actual goals — Monahan’s go-ahead goal late in the third period of the season-opener — but if they continue playing this way, the goals should come.
One of the reasons why the combination works is Monahan and Dach complete each other’s weaknesses. Monahan has won 46 faceoffs and won 67.4 per cent of them. Dach has only won 13, winning five. This helps the line begin its shift with possession.
But once they have possession, that’s where Dach’s strengths make up for some of the weaknesses in Monahan’s game. Dach’s ability to navigate the minefield known as the neutral zone is something to watch, and also something Monahan doesn’t do all that well. Once the puck is in the offensive zone and the Canadiens are able to get set up, that’s when Monahan’s skills become more relevant.
If you watch Dach arriving at the offensive blue line with speed, it’s remarkable how often he makes the right decision with the puck, whether that’s keeping it and entering the zone himself or sucking defenders into him and dishing to a linemate for an easy zone entry.
