In the Sabres's most recent loss to the Red Wings, many people and fans were displeased with the play of Owen Power. Power was the 1st overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, and had played well in his first few seasons with the Sabres.
Netting about 30 points per season, and having a positive plus-minus, Power looked like the next franchise defenseman.
However, this year has been an interesting one for Power, he is just four points away from breaking his career-high for points in a season. But defensively he is having the worst season of his career.
Power signed a 7 year, $58,450,000 contract at the beginning of 2023 season, and hopefully Kevyn Adams doesn't regret that decision.
Developing Bad Habits
For a player who is 6-foot, 6-inches tall, and 230 pounds, Power sure hasn’t shown that this season. Most nights Power is one of the biggest players on the ice, but refuses to get physical down low in the defensive zone.
It was on full display last night as Power gave Detroit multiple chances by not putting a body on his opponent.
Power has also struggled immensely with cutting off passing lanes this year, as it seems he is just unaware of his placement when on the ice.
Which is why UPL is facing 30 shots per game as not cutting off angles is increasing shot attempts for opponents. Although Power is still just 21-years-old, it seems he is starting to regress from where he was at the first two years.
Struggling in New System
I think the real reason for Power’s struggles is trying to accommodate to Lindy Ruff’s new system. Ruff likes to run a four high offense, which constantly leaves the window open for odd man rushes.
In those situations you have to either take the pass, or the shot, but there is a 50/50 chance of what will happen. Power has allowed the most odd-man rush goals on the Sabres, and has been on the ice for 2nd most goals against on the team this season.
Power is averaging around 21 minutes of ice time, but in this offensive-heavy scheme, he is tired. This is making him look lazy on the defensive end of the puck, and allowing for more opportunities for the opponents.
Final Thoughts
I think Lindy Ruff is taking away Power’s potential defensively, but unlocking his offensive potential. Everyone loved the Lindy Ruff hire, but it seems a lot of these guys are sick of his tactics, and his constant changing of lines.
Whether or not Ruff is here to stay or is gone at the end the of year, Power I believe would benefit in a different system as he has before. The Sabres scoring has been the one bright spot this year, but they need to focus on the defensive side of things. Getting Power back on track for next year, would help get this team back to competitive and contending team.