Juulsen has a tendency to consistently put himself out of position in pursuit of a big hit, which directly leads to odd-man rushes and often results in goals against. He has displayed this behavior in numerous significant games against top teams since the regular season.
It is likely that the coaching staff has reviewed video and advised him that this play does not benefit the team. Yet, he continues to pursue big hits that put himself out of position in a playoff game. This is not a case of a player making an isolated error under pressure, like shooting the puck over the glass causing a penalty.
Juulsen repeatedly chases hits, abandoning his defensive partner and leaving the goalie vulnerable. This behavior suggests he prioritizes his own objectives over the team's success.
This is what Tocchet has been addressing throughout the playoffs.
Repeatedly, to the tune of once a game. He's trying to be physical, which is good, but sometimes his reads are off (maybe he thinks he can get there faster, or has more support from his forwards, I don't know). But outside of that (typically) one play per game, he's usually pretty solid. Certainly was in GM4.
But it's not like I'm calling for him to replace a dman that is consistently safe and predictable. Cole's reads have been just as bad. He's been taking penalties. He's been struggling to clear the zone when he has the puck. Cole is old and is looking worn out.
Both guys are going to make mistakes. But using the 3600 seconds brought up elsewhere, Juulsen is going to have a 15 second brain fart, but be safe and predictable the rest of the time. Cole is just a goal against waiting to happen constantly, and would benefit from a game or two off to refocus.
