Jake McCabe: Modern shutdown defenseman with great habits
With the NHL trade deadline coming in a few weeks, Jake McCabe's name has been in the trade rumors.
Last season, I saw Chicago play live in Ottawa and came away really impressed with Jake McCabe.
Here are some details that I liked in this viewing that would make him a valuable addition to any playoff team.
1. Breakout retrievals/transition
-Great habits: Scanning/shoulder checks, hip pocket, underhandle.
-Use of the net as a shield
-Poise under pressure
-Use of body positioning/strength to control the puck area
-D2 weakside activation
2. Rush defense
-Retrieving inside dots on strong side rush defense to keep puck carrier on the wall
-Surf/Attach early on check/Defending while skating forward as D2
-Great stickwork, a limited number of crossovers
-Physicality
3. Offensive zone play
-Good habits: Eyes up, good first touch.
-Activation
-RIM release out of pressure
-Pinch/sit early to keep the possession alive
The habits and details in McCabe's game make him a great play driver and a strong modern shutdown defenseman. There's no doubt that Jake McCabe could be a great add to a contending team.
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