Although it has come to be expected at this point, Connor McDavid has begun the season scoring at an incredible clip in comparison to his peers. The 25-year-old continues to get better, year in and year out, starting his eight NHL campaign with 32 points (15G, 17A) in only 17 games.
His ability to do things most players in the history of the game cannot, makes the Oilers centre a unique player to coach.
"You said the best offensive player in the world, I think he's the best hockey player in the world," Woodcroft said when asked about allowing Connor to improvise from his system. "There's a difference between sameness and fairness. We have an idea of how we want to play, and then we recognize the tools that we have at our disposal."
You will often see McDavid stickhandle through several defenders at the blueline, rather than be forced to chip and chase like the majority of NHL players. When puck protection is at such a premium when playing a team like Vegas, having a player who can maintain possession will be key in limiting the golden Knights chances.
"I think, in being around Connor every day, he doesn't get enough credit for his decision making in recognizing where the available ice is," Woodcroft said about his captain. "I think that's what it comes down to is the team in front of them. If they have a soft gap, you can carry it over the blueline and you may be able to change lanes and find ice that way. Or does the team have a tight gap in the available ice in behind? I think Connor does have the ability to give up the puck if he has to, but because of his speed he can force D-men to turn, which is essential in puck management -- getting the other team's d-core to turn and solve a problem."
"I think he's willing to do it either way," Woodcroft added. "His speed is a real factor in backing D-men off, but his decision making with the puck and recognizing where that available ice is, I think he's elite."
