It was more impressive because his was a shortened rookie season he missed 37 games because of a fractured clavicle but scored 48 points (16 goals, 32 assists) in 45 games. That's saying a lot, because the buildup for the young center, who turned 19 during the season, was considerable.
The tactic may well work.If it's possible for a teenage phenom to exceed the hype, then that's what McDavid did in his rookie NHL season with the Edmonton Oilers. Maybe he can soften up the Denver d-men who have so far thwarted McD, especially in Game 2. Perhaps he could bring that level of nasty play to McDavid’s wing, providing the team a necessary lift. He had a strong game in the Game 1 in Denver, as his powerful and aggressive physical play gave trouble to the Avs defencemen. Kassian has had some good games on McD’s wing.
I’d much prefer to see him at wing with McDavid. But when asked to play centre in Game 2 in Denver, he looked slow on the backcheck and somewhat slow driving the puck forward. With his injury, Draisaitl has excelled when asked to move the puck on McD’s line, a skill where he ranks at the top of the NHL elite. He’s also so fast and dangerous that he commands major attention from defenders and pulls players away from his linemates, giving more time and space to a player like Draisaitl. McDavid needs and love the puck on his stick, and he’s also demonstrated strong defensive play, key attributes both for a centre. Drai’s issues with skating with his high ankle sprain have been well hidden when he’s been on a line with McDavid. I’m less worried about Kassian on the top line than I am about Draisaitl at centre. A loud faction of fans online would see Kassian benched, not elevated to the top line.Ģ. It will certainly shake up many Oilers fans that Kassian practiced on a line with Connor McDavid and Evander Kane. With Yamamoto and Draisaitl not on the practice ice, it’s too early to tell how the lines will skake out in the game. Activate your Online Access Now Article contentġ. If you are a Home delivery print subscriber, unlimited online access is included in your subscription.
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