Brooks Orpik

[JustAsking]

Here goes some interesting stats on Brooks...

2011-2012
Hits: #8 with 259
Blocked Shots: #40 with 139

2012-2013
Hits: #61 with 58.
Blocked Shots: #1 with 84

Why do you think his hits have dropped off but his blocked shots are up this year? System philosphy, get in shooting lanes... trying to block more shots (before they get to the pens sometimes shakey goaltending)? Brooks wearing down and not engaging physically as much? Or neither, those are just stats and do not reflect his on ice performance.

 

[element1286]

I'm thinking it is his style of play, I don't know if it is a conscience decision on his part, or something that the coaching staff suggested, but I think a lot of his hits came during board play in his own zone.

He seems to be playing positioning more than physicality this year. Although I think he has been stepping up his physical play at the blueline as of late, standing guys up as they enter the zone.