Does Size Matter in the Stanley Cup Playoffs?
Examining both sides of the argument of whether size is an important factor in hoisting Lord Stanley.
We often hear clichés about “size” around this time of year. Only the biggest and baddest advance to the Stanley Cup Final—more skilled teams in the regular season must play heavier in the late stages of the postseason.
But is that actually true?
Let’s dive into the reasons why size does and does not matter in the playoffs. In the end, we’ll come up with a verdict: which side is right?
Why Size Matters in the Playoffs
There’s been some pushback on the idea that you need size in order to win the Stanley Cup. There’s a reason for that. Small players excel all the time in the postseason, and even league-average-sized clubs are able to go the distance.
Still, there’s definitely some truth to the idea that size is important. For starters, let’s look at offense. Specifically, the physical side of things.
Its effectiveness can be studied in more detail, but Matthew Tkachuk of the Florida Panthers told the media that his team’s game is built on wearing opponents down. Florida is gritty, mean, and a force in all three zones. With talent from top to bottom, the fact that they can physically exhaust the opposition is crucial. The Panthers have won their last eight playoff series against Eastern Conference foes—they’re poised to make it nine for a reason.
Why is size important in wearing teams down, though? Small players can do the same, right?
