After losing Game One to the Penguins Wednesday, the Jackets held a 30-minute practice Thursday at PPG Paints Arena. Zach Werenski was the only player not participating; it was simply a maintenance day for the defenseman who led the team in shot attempts (12) last night.
The practice focused on finding ways to generate more offense, particularly close to the net and off rebounds and second chances.
In Game One, the Jackets out shot and out attempted the Penguins in all situations and in five-on-five play, but the majority of those attempts didn't come from "in the blue." The Jackets weren't able to capitalize until after their opponent had built a three-goal lead.
The way the Penguins play, the Jackets aren't expecting to get a lot of chances off the rush. They will need to battle against a defense that shrinks in their own zone, clogs passing lanes and blocks a lot of shots. Last night, Pittsburgh stopped 22 Jackets' shots from getting to the net.
Round One Practice Notebook: April 13
Jackets work on getting to the net in Thursday's practice