Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 11:39 pm GMT
After a challenging previous season, Montreal Canadiens forward Josh Anderson has dedicated his summer to revamping his approach to hockey. While training at the Canadiens’ facility and even getting married in Italy, Anderson took a proactive step by reviewing his past performances, wanting to understand and improve his gameplay better.
Analyzing Past Performance
Anderson didn’t just want to forget last season; he wanted to learn from it. At the beginning of his off-season, he spent a significant amount of time watching recordings of his games. “I think that’s the biggest reason why I studied the game so much during the summer,” he said on Saturday. He noted that in one particularly productive week, he watched about 40 games. “It doesn’t take that long, just 12 or 15 minutes per shift, and really pay attention to yourself when you don’t have the puck or have the puck.”
In his analysis, Anderson aimed to pinpoint minor details in his play—whether he was in the right position, when he could be more aggressive, and how to create space. “There are so many things I would write down, probably eight to ten things per game. It was just little things,” he explained. Through this method, he wanted to avoid the “overload of information” that had bothered him during the last season.
Realizations from the Review
One surprising outcome from his extensive review was Anderson’s acknowledgment of his strong start in the previous season. “I was actually very surprised at my first 20 games,” he remarked. “I wish I watched my games when I was going through that slump, I really do.” He noticed that despite not scoring, he was still creating numerous scoring chances, which had gone overlooked during his struggles.
Statistics from those early games confirmed his observations. He was among the team’s leaders in expected goals and high-danger chances but struggled to find the back of the net. “If he would have been a bit luckier at the start of the season, it would have helped his season mentally,” said Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis.
A New Mindset Going Forward
After reflecting on the past, Anderson is determined to approach the upcoming season with a refreshed mindset. He plans to continue watching his performances regularly, regardless of how well he is playing. He mentioned, “I know this year it’s going to be about just sticking with it, knowing how good of a player you can be.”
This commitment to understanding his game is one of the many proactive steps he is taking. With the potential for improved personal performance, Anderson is eager to contribute positively to the team’s success.
Joel Armia: A Source of Inspiration
Another player at training camp, Joel Armia, provides a shining example of how a positive mindset can translate into strong performances on the ice. Throughout recent scrimmages, Armia has displayed impressive skills, making plays, winning battles, and using his size and strength in remarkable ways.
“Army, talent-wise, he’s as talented as anyone,” said teammate Brendan Gallagher. During the scrimmages, Armia stood out as he effortlessly maneuvered, exemplifying how mindset can shape resilience and effectiveness during challenging times.
Young Talent Making an Impact
As the Canadiens prepare for the upcoming season, several younger players are also making their presence known. David Reinbacher, for example, is keenly aware of the level of competition during training camp. “Everyone is fighting for their jobs here,” he noted. Reinbacher emphasizes sticking to his strengths while learning from experienced teammates like Mike Matheson.
St. Louis praised Reinbacher for his composure and ability to quickly bounce back from mistakes: “He’s very calm for a young kid.” This maturity not only distinguishes Reinbacher but also provides the team with a sense of stability as they move deeper into training camp.
Where Do They Go From Here?
With each practice and scrimmage, the Canadiens are focused on refining their game and building confidence. Coach St. Louis has highlighted the importance of engagement in every aspect of hockey, especially when players do not have the puck.
As the regular season approaches, the anticipation surrounding Anderson and the younger players’ prospects continues to grow. With an emphasis on mental clarity, utility of experience, and teamwork, the Canadiens look poised to craft a successful new chapter in the 2024 season.
the dedication shown by Anderson in studying his performance indicates a commitment to personal growth, while players like Armia and Reinbacher motivate the team with their determination and skill. The Canadiens’ training camp is becoming a breeding ground for talent, resilience, and perhaps a successful season to follow.
### Feeling Inspired
The shift in Anderson’s mentality serves as a reminder to players and fans alike that sometimes, looking back can be the key to moving forward.
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