The Hershey Bears, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive championship in the AHL, faced early playoff adversity but adapted their strategy significantly. Head Coach Todd Nelson, after two early losses in the best-of-five series against Lehigh Valley Phantoms, made radical lineup changes, including dressing 11 forwards and 7 defensemen and shifting goaltenders. Notably, he started Clay Stevenson in Game 4, breaking Hunter Shepard's impressive streak of 43 consecutive playoff starts despite his historical success. Stevenson's performance was commendable, leading to a decisive Game 5, demonstrating the Bears' tactical flexibility in high-stakes situations.
Despite leading the team to past successes, Coach Todd Nelson made bold lineup changes for playoff survival, including starting goaltender Clay Stevenson against the Phantoms.
Head Coach Todd Nelson's strategic moves in the playoffs emphasize adaptability, notably switching starting goalies to sustain the team's pursuit of a three-peat championship.
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