In a current episode of The Hockey Writers Roundtable, analysts Matthew Zator, Jacob Billington, and Jim Bay mentioned who has stood out as the very best and worst offseason additions to their respective groups within the early levels of the NHL season. There’s been loads of motion throughout the offseason. The panel shared ideas about which gamers have made an instantaneous affect and that are struggling to fulfill expectations.
The dialogue might be seen and heard under:
Greatest Addition: Steven Mason Shines in New Jersey
Jacob Billington began the dialogue by naming Stefan Noesen the very best addition. Regardless of the season’s early stage, Noesen has considerably impacted the New Jersey Devils. He’s maintained a point-per-game tempo. Billington described Noesen as a bodily power, highlighting his spectacular all-around play.
Billington additionally in contrast Noesen and Michael Bunting. He famous that Bunting might need extra offensive upside, however Noesen has introduced all the things the Devils might have needed. His presence has been important to New Jersey’s success. Billington additionally speculated that Noesen’s former workforce, the Carolina Hurricanes, is feeling his absence already.
Worst Addition: Darcy Kuemper Struggling Early
When naming the worst addition thus far, Billington pointed to Darcy Kuemper of the Los Angeles Kings. Though Billington had talked about Kuemper earlier within the dialog, his underwhelming begin to the season couldn’t be ignored. Kuemper’s performances have raised issues about his capability to fulfill expectations, particularly given his prior successes.
Whereas it’s nonetheless early, Kuemper’s struggles within the web haven’t gone unnoticed. In three video games for the Kings, he’s allowed 11 targets in opposition to and has a .890 save share. There’s a way that the workforce would possibly must rethink their goaltending state of affairs if issues don’t flip round quickly.
Jim Bay shared his ideas, praising Oliver Ekman-Larsson as this season’s finest addition. Now a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ekman-Larsson has impressed Bay along with his capability to contribute on each ends of the ice. Bay emphasised that Ekman-Larsson’s expertise as a Stanley Cup champion might convey invaluable intangibles to a Maple Leafs workforce trying to elevate their playoff efficiency.
He’s averaging over 21 minutes per recreation and has three assists.
Regardless of a disappointing stint in Vancouver, Bay instructed that Ekman-Larsson has realized from his time there. He’s now poised to complete his profession on the next notice. The extra affordable contract he signed with Toronto has additionally alleviated among the stress he confronted in Vancouver. There, his excessive price ticket typically overshadowed his contributions.
The Backside Line: A Season of Redemption or Battle?
Because the season progresses, will probably be fascinating to see how these early assessments evolve. Noesen seems like a steal for the Devils, whereas Kuemper should shortly flip issues round to keep away from additional scrutiny. In the meantime, Ekman-Larsson’s contemporary begin in Toronto might be a case of redemption. Will he present {that a} change of surroundings and contract can do wonders for a participant’s confidence and efficiency?
Will these early traits proceed, or will different gamers rise (or fall) because the season unfolds? Time will inform.
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