He's centering a fucking line with Panarin and Lafreniere and for God knows what reason he's on PP1 over Buchnevich, Lafreniere, etc. And yet, he fucking sucks.
NHL caliber defensemen this season. Last season I wasn’t comfortable with a 3 goal lead in the 3rd period after watching the Devils blow multiple 4-5 goal leads in the first few weeks of the season.
I'd expect the Panarin line to lead on TOI because of both a) being 1st line and b) power plays
and the Devils, while they have some players, are not a team I'd expect to religously match lines with. They don't have a top line like TBL, BOS, TOR, etc.
RE: Did Kakko see the ice at all during the second period?
He was good in the first. Strong on the puck with the little ice time he got. Made smart plays. Don't think he got much ice time in the second. But Howden is killing it. Lol.
NHL caliber defensemen this season. Last season I wasn’t comfortable with a 3 goal lead in the 3rd period after watching the Devils blow multiple 4-5 goal leads in the first few weeks of the season.
Amen. If PK can play like this I may have to raise my expectations a bit for the team. Don't forget they still don't have Bratt Nico or Vattanen. Honestly I don't think it's the Rangers D's fault. Georgiev has been awful.
Well, we had a HORRENDOUS change that allowed the first goal. Then Lindgren sat there with his thumb up his ass looking at the puck in the crease while Hughes swooped in to tap it home for the second. Then Trouba tried to pinch and failed to get the puck deep, leading to a breakaway for the third goal.
Georgiev hasn't played well but the defense remains a joke.
NHL caliber defensemen this season. Last season I wasn’t comfortable with a 3 goal lead in the 3rd period after watching the Devils blow multiple 4-5 goal leads in the first few weeks of the season.
Amen. If PK can play like this I may have to raise my expectations a bit for the team. Don't forget they still don't have Bratt Nico or Vattanen. Honestly I don't think it's the Rangers D's fault. Georgiev has been awful.
The Devils have received almost nothing from Palmieri, Johnsson, and Gusev yet either.
Taking all those penalties. The Rangers have some of the best skill in the NHL to throw out there on the PP. In 3+ games the Devs have given up 1 even strength goal that's insane. Especially when you factor in they are playing a totally new defensive type system that's unique to most everyone in the NHL.
Adam Herman
@AdamZHerman
The Rangers are out-attempting the Devils 17-3 when Chytil and Kakko are on the ice at 5v5 and they have received fewer minutes than anyone except for Gauthier.
8:55 PM · Jan 19, 2021
I don't think Kakko has gotten much PP time since mid last season
I was happy with how the team played, disappointed in some of the ice time decisions.
I do not think Kakko looks good. I think Chytil does. Kakko looks slow to me.
The big difference is that Chytil brings the puck into the zone and I think gets a lot of cheapy shots on goal (they dont mean much as they are just launches at the net). If we had a power guy like LeClair or Corey Perry or Marleau whose game was going to the net, Chytil would be fine. But playing with Kakko who is more of a shooter, Chytil is generally too deep before Kakko can be effective.
I think it was a mistake dropping Kakko at this point.
The good news is that the Devils haven't had any back to backs yet and won't before Aaron Dell is cleared. The Devils luckily avoided having to start Wedgewood.
The good news is that the Devils haven't had any back to backs yet and won't before Aaron Dell is cleared. The Devils luckily avoided having to start Wedgewood.
Totally agree.... Not expecting much so anything that comes on the upside, I'll take
The good news is that the Devils haven't had any back to backs yet and won't before Aaron Dell is cleared. The Devils luckily avoided having to start Wedgewood.
Totally agree.... Not expecting much so anything that comes on the upside, I'll take
I know it's early but the Devils could fight for a playoff spot if they remain healthy. Blackwood is playing lights out and this isn't a fluke. Blackwood was one of the few bright spots last season and he continues to improve with experience.
The Devils need Hischier back ASAP. Hopefully his return will get Gusev and Palmieri going. They have combined for just 2 assists this season. If the Devils are to have a chance they will need both to produce.
Taking all those penalties. The Rangers have some of the best skill in the NHL to throw out there on the PP. In 3+ games the Devs have given up 1 even strength goal that's insane. Especially when you factor in they are playing a totally new defensive type system that's unique to most everyone in the NHL.
how is their defensive system different? I have not been following but interested
had three consecutive shots blocked in the final minutes last night.
Some of that is on him, some of that is a solid forward scheme to clog the middle and then Johnson not being smart enough to dish it instead of shooting.
Trouba also had a shot blocked I believe to give up the Hughes breakaway.
shot blocking and face offs, so underrated, so impactful
I think those late blocked shots were Trouba, not Johnson?
And yeah, that blocked-shot-turned-into-breakaway is a Trouba specialty. He stunk last night.
Probably both, Johnson had one that looked like an intentional shot off net (you know sometimes players go off net on purpose hoping the bounce off the boards opens an opportunity - the other two were right down the middle - maybe Trouba, I thought it was Johnson).
On those rare occasions when he was on the ice, anyway.
I missed the first, but Kakko looks to lack real explosion - which he did show prior to the Rangers drafting him. There was a play where Kakko had the puck and Chytil blew past him to go off-side.
Kakko looks nothing like he did in the World Championship.
Quinn says he expects both Zib and Lemieux to play on Friday
On those rare occasions when he was on the ice, anyway.
I missed the first, but Kakko looks to lack real explosion - which he did show prior to the Rangers drafting him. There was a play where Kakko had the puck and Chytil blew past him to go off-side.
Kakko looks nothing like he did in the World Championship.
Could be still growing.
I forget who it was, one Rangers prospect i was reading about grew 3 inches post NHL draft (Robertson? I forget, might not have even been Rangers)
so, who knows some 18/19 year old boys are still growing and as someone who coaches adolescents there is an adjustment period and some awkwardness, haven't seen that from Kakko, but we only see games.
It's partly why they say generally big players (like Kreider, Byfield, maybe even Kakko) having a longer process getting acclimated to the NHL - they have to relearn some things and grow into their bodies).
Well, we had a HORRENDOUS change that allowed the first goal. Then Lindgren sat there with his thumb up his ass looking at the puck in the crease while Hughes swooped in to tap it home for the second. Then Trouba tried to pinch and failed to get the puck deep, leading to a breakaway for the third goal.
Georgiev hasn't played well but the defense remains a joke.
Greg the first 2 goals were absolutely on Georgiev. There should never have been rebounds. They were 2 soft glove side shots that any goalie in the NHL needs to glove. Sure the other 2 goals were on the D. But one was a beautiful set up in the PP.
Be patient with him this year. It's very hard to play in the NHL at 18-19yo. Hughes came back this year a different player. Honestly if he wasn't the #1 overall pick last year Hughes wouldn't even have sniffed the NHL.
RE: Hughes is a word of caution on LaFreniere as well
Be patient with him this year. It's very hard to play in the NHL at 18-19yo. Hughes came back this year a different player. Honestly if he wasn't the #1 overall pick last year Hughes wouldn't even have sniffed the NHL.
Good point. Most of these kids are physically ready to play in the NHL as we saw with Hughes last season. We saw flashes here and there but he often looked physically overmatched.
Hughes added 14 pounds of muscle this offseason and he looks like a different player than a year ago.
to their taxi squad today. The 6'7 Bahl skated with the team in practice.
It's an interesting move especially with Vatanen joining the roster in a few days. Bahl would bring a physical presence to the blue line if he is ready for the NHL.
The main weakness with Kakko and Lafreniere was their skating
and it definitely shows. They weren't elite skaters like McDavid or even Hughes were. It. Kakko seems to lumber on his skates. Lafreniere is better and stronger on his skates, but he's definitely not fast.
may not be in McDavid or Hughes class as a skater (not many are), but I don't think it was a weakness for either.
And...skating is one of those things that even at their ages can be improved.
Look at Marchand, Kotkaniemi, etc. so many player improve their skating.
Get 'em Barb Underhill
lol tons of skating coaches.
you want to see a player who was good, but had skating issues it's Jan Mysak and he dropped to the 3rd round because of it and my hope is it gets corrected in the NHL because he's got a ton of talent, but real skating issues can be insurmountable and neither Kakko or Lafreniere have skating issues.
On those rare occasions when he was on the ice, anyway.
I missed the first, but Kakko looks to lack real explosion - which he did show prior to the Rangers drafting him. There was a play where Kakko had the puck and Chytil blew past him to go off-side.
Kakko looks nothing like he did in the World Championship.
Could be still growing.
I forget who it was, one Rangers prospect i was reading about grew 3 inches post NHL draft (Robertson? I forget, might not have even been Rangers)
so, who knows some 18/19 year old boys are still growing and as someone who coaches adolescents there is an adjustment period and some awkwardness, haven't seen that from Kakko, but we only see games.
It's partly why they say generally big players (like Kreider, Byfield, maybe even Kakko) having a longer process getting acclimated to the NHL - they have to relearn some things and grow into their bodies).
But Kakko hasn't looked great.
I think he has looked better in his own end and on back checking (I know its only 3 games, but I definitely noticed he was more active that way), but he still seems like such a lamb looking for his own shots. He reminds me of RJ Barrett as a hockey player.
Hes got a great shot and is a strong guy, I thought he would be looking to shoot by now.
may not be in McDavid or Hughes class as a skater (not many are), but I don't think it was a weakness for either.
And...skating is one of those things that even at their ages can be improved.
Look at Marchand, Kotkaniemi, etc. so many player improve their skating.
Get 'em Barb Underhill
lol tons of skating coaches.
you want to see a player who was good, but had skating issues it's Jan Mysak and he dropped to the 3rd round because of it and my hope is it gets corrected in the NHL because he's got a ton of talent, but real skating issues can be insurmountable and neither Kakko or Lafreniere have skating issues.
Pj, I def never played as much as you, but Ive always been a good skater (only reason I was able to stick around a bit), can you give some examples of "skating issues"? I started skating when I was 4 and I guess never needed much instruction on crossing over, skating backwards on the fly... I was always good about trusting my edges. Im just curious what constitutes an "issue."
Thanks in advance and sorry if I am mossing something and sound like a gnube.
has a great shot, but I don't remember him being shoot first, I think he had a pass first mentality or at least was known as a play maker.
Right, but on the line he is currently on (Chytil, DiGiuseppe/Gauthier) who is he passing to? I am not saying he is Brett Hull, but FFS, I want him to shoot more. He looks great doing it as you mentioned it.
it's a great question and I had no idea as I was playing. I was fast, I was defense and I could skate backwards faster than most people could skate forward, but as you get to the higher level you realize what "good" is and it's not me. lol.
It's so technical these days it's all about bend, stride, power, step, angles, acceleration, etc.
So someone like Kakko next to your or I looks like elite, but next to McDavid or Hughes people see he's not as polished.
And bad is relative. so I hate to give examples.
IMO it's a like running a 4.5 40 which for most people is world class, but when you see a Tyreek Hill run a 4.2 you see how much different elite speed is.
In small spaces it doesn't make much difference (partly why Hughes struggled last year, he couldn't get to open space, he needed to be stronger - everywhere - on the boards cycling, in scrums, on his skates, etc), but in open space it's a big advantage.
Lol, yea I was unaware that there were no DEFINED issues
Personally, I mostly hate watching striders, but then you watch Sergei Fedorov glide through defenders and finish. I have always had a shorter stride because I could move them quicker than most and it helped me take turns a little tighter. PK Subban is very choppy (no pun intended) when he skates and I am more that style of skater. But then you have these beasts like Vinny Lecavalier, LeClair, Lindros, Recchi, Kopitar and Malkin who explode to top speed, and turn like a rattlesnake. I watched Mike Grier play live in High School and even he was just another level.
Who the hell know what Quinn is telling Kakko to do, anyway
Man, I wish Fox had wheels to go with the rest of his game. That's the only thing that keeps him from being a superstar. He is so very, very good with the puck and has great instincts at both ends.
RE: Lol, yea I was unaware that there were no DEFINED issues
Personally, I mostly hate watching striders, but then you watch Sergei Fedorov glide through defenders and finish. I have always had a shorter stride because I could move them quicker than most and it helped me take turns a little tighter. PK Subban is very choppy (no pun intended) when he skates and I am more that style of skater. But then you have these beasts like Vinny Lecavalier, LeClair, Lindros, Recchi, Kopitar and Malkin who explode to top speed, and turn like a rattlesnake. I watched Mike Grier play live in High School and even he was just another level.
Great point.
And it's not just or always speed. Sydney Crosby has the best edge work I've ever seen in my life (I hear some people say Bobby Orr, but he was before my time). The way Crosby leans, crosses over, tight turns, etc. is how you would create a hockey skating text book if there was one.
I use Crosby clips all the time to show my kids applied use of the techniques we teach them.
But watching the Rangers Devils last night, holy shit, Jack Hughes gets to top speed quicker than almost anyone I've seen outside McDavid in the NHL right now, but he has good edge work along with it. Some people don't.
Personally, I mostly hate watching striders, but then you watch Sergei Fedorov glide through defenders and finish. I have always had a shorter stride because I could move them quicker than most and it helped me take turns a little tighter. PK Subban is very choppy (no pun intended) when he skates and I am more that style of skater. But then you have these beasts like Vinny Lecavalier, LeClair, Lindros, Recchi, Kopitar and Malkin who explode to top speed, and turn like a rattlesnake. I watched Mike Grier play live in High School and even he was just another level.
Great point.
And it's not just or always speed. Sydney Crosby has the best edge work I've ever seen in my life (I hear some people say Bobby Orr, but he was before my time). The way Crosby leans, crosses over, tight turns, etc. is how you would create a hockey skating text book if there was one.
I use Crosby clips all the time to show my kids applied use of the techniques we teach them.
But watching the Rangers Devils last night, holy shit, Jack Hughes gets to top speed quicker than almost anyone I've seen outside McDavid in the NHL right now, but he has good edge work along with it. Some people don't.
McDavid is incredible obviously, but Crosby might be the 2nd best all around skater I have ever seen. His circles are just infuriatingly tight. McDavid might actually be better, but I think its Crosby's anticipation and penchant for being in the right space that sets him apart from the rest.
I think bar none, my favorite skater ever has to be Scott Niedermayer. People talk about Coffey being effortless, I have never seen anybody move forwards, backwards and laterally like he did. I would have loved to have seen him and Crosby head to head. Usually though, Niedermayer really didnt have to skate like crazy because of his stick work and positioning, but Niedermayer or Selanne are my all timers.
RE: Who the hell know what Quinn is telling Kakko to do, anyway
Maybe he's telling him not to shoot. He seems to love forcing high skill kids to be meathead grinders.
Last year I would have said you just had a dump your pants about the less than mighty Quinn, but he might actually be trying to dissuade Kakko from playing to his strength. Unfortunate if true.
And you nailed it about Fox and the long speed. I still think he can be an all star, but if he had Brian Rafalski wheels going up ice he would truly be scary.
definitely an A+ skater, maybe best of his era. Straight line speed maybe Bure.
I think Bure and Selanne are a push honestly. But thing his, when Selanne got to top speed, he could turn like a bastard too. The Russian Rocket was as you said, straight line.
I love this stroll down memory lane of some of these guys who were so incredible on their blades. Another one was Ulf Samuelsson....he was known for being a head cracker, but that guy was a terrific skater. His balance was what allowed him to play so big.
But Russ Courtnall was a really explosive skater. Maybe not quite Bure, but he had similar acceleration.
I was originally gonna applaud ypur call thinking of the same player, but I only remember Geoff Courtnall....who was a pain in the dick as a hockey player.
But Russ Courtnall was a really explosive skater. Maybe not quite Bure, but he had similar acceleration.
I was originally gonna applaud ypur call thinking of the same player, but I only remember Geoff Courtnall....who was a pain in the dick as a hockey player.
I remember Geoff as the much better player, but after looking them up they had very similar careers. Russ played 16 years, Geoff 17, and they were about 50 pts apart for their careers.
Russ was better early in his career and Geoff was better later, so maybe that's why I remember Geoff as the better player. Russ was definitely the better skater. He could absolutely fly.
I don't think it will happen, but I do wonder if the Rangers will entertain the idea of trading Kakko for a young C like Pierre-Luc Dubois or Sasha Barkov.
RE: He never quite put it all together as a Ranger
His best seasons were in Pittsburgh. Had a 96 point season there, never better than 58 as a Ranger.
Obviously rightfully so Messier gets all the credit for game 6 in '94 vs the Devs but Kovalev's goal late in the 2nd really started to turn that game around. Before that it was mostly all Devs.
RE: RE: He never quite put it all together as a Ranger
Obviously rightfully so Messier gets all the credit for game 6 in '94 vs the Devs but Kovalev's goal late in the 2nd really started to turn that game around. Before that it was mostly all Devs.
Yes Stu, agreed. I know the focus of this is on Kovalev but Richter was huge in this game. This and the 96 Canada Cup was Mike Richter at his best.
I really thought in 94 we were developing a superstar on the Rangers (I am sure I am not alone)
Obviously rightfully so Messier gets all the credit for game 6 in '94 vs the Devs but Kovalev's goal late in the 2nd really started to turn that game around. Before that it was mostly all Devs.
Yes Stu, agreed. I know the focus of this is on Kovalev but Richter was huge in this game. This and the 96 Canada Cup was Mike Richter at his best.
I really thought in 94 we were developing a superstar on the Rangers (I am sure I am not alone)
The 7 minute shift
Kovalev talks about it at the reunion - first question from Al.
Absolutely, I mentioned Kovy's goal but Richter saved that game early. The Devs got the 2-0 lead early but Richter stood on his head and never gave them the 3rd goal while they were dominating.
Taking all those penalties. The Rangers have some of the best skill in the NHL to throw out there on the PP. In 3+ games the Devs have given up 1 even strength goal that's insane. Especially when you factor in they are playing a totally new defensive type system that's unique to most everyone in the NHL.
how is their defensive system different? I have not been following but interested
Sorry never saw this post. It mainly has to do with the unique fwd assignments coming back to help in the D zone. Their assignments can change depending on what order they enter the D zone. I linked an article where Bryce Salvador explains it better than I can. Link - ( New Window )
Plus a #2 overall (Kakko).
would be cool if they were all on the ice.
Kakko is on the 2PP unit, as is Lemieux (for some reason)
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my sh*t if Howden and Lemieux play on the PP ahead of Kakko.
Kakko is on the 2PP unit, as is Lemieux (for some reason)
Kakko got 3 seconds of power play time on Sunday.
Devils take a 3 - 1 lead.
Hughes looks like a different player
Fire Quinn.
depends on how they define control
4 - 2
I'd expect the Panarin line to lead on TOI because of both a) being 1st line and b) power plays
and the Devils, while they have some players, are not a team I'd expect to religously match lines with. They don't have a top line like TBL, BOS, TOR, etc.
He was good in the first. Strong on the puck with the little ice time he got. Made smart plays. Don't think he got much ice time in the second. But Howden is killing it. Lol.
Strome is second with the most TOI. And you wonder why this team is the shits.
Amen. If PK can play like this I may have to raise my expectations a bit for the team. Don't forget they still don't have Bratt Nico or Vattanen. Honestly I don't think it's the Rangers D's fault. Georgiev has been awful.
Georgiev hasn't played well but the defense remains a joke.
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NHL caliber defensemen this season. Last season I wasn’t comfortable with a 3 goal lead in the 3rd period after watching the Devils blow multiple 4-5 goal leads in the first few weeks of the season.
Amen. If PK can play like this I may have to raise my expectations a bit for the team. Don't forget they still don't have Bratt Nico or Vattanen. Honestly I don't think it's the Rangers D's fault. Georgiev has been awful.
The Devils have received almost nothing from Palmieri, Johnsson, and Gusev yet either.
Why does Brendan Lemieux get PP time? Christ
And I say QB because sometimes it seems he passes players open like a QB in football.
Rangers controlling zone time and chances
47 saves.
47 saves.
Absolutely. Devs were on fumes the last 10 minutes. Big growing up moment for the young Devils.
you think that was his head?
I thought it was lower body or shoulder.
Didn't seem like he hit his head on initial view.
Fox looked great. Miller has been nice and steady. Kreider came a post away from a two goal night.
And I have to give a bit of credit to Quinn - he rode his stars in the 3rd. Didn't see much Howden or DiGiuseppe late.
Fox looked great. Miller has been nice and steady. Kreider came a post away from a two goal night.
And I have to give a bit of credit to Quinn - he rode his stars in the 3rd. Didn't see much Howden or DiGiuseppe late.
And he didn't hesitate to change goalies, Igor didn't get a ton of work, but did well when he needed to.
And fire Howden into the sun.
Get rid of the shootout and fix the points (3/2/1).
Chytil: 37:59
Kakko: 36:11
Gauthier: 25:46
Ryan Strome: 62:33
Chytil: 37:59
Kakko: 36:11
Gauthier: 25:46
Ryan Strome: 62:33
Is that 5v5? You should really use that for comparisons like this. Kakko probably on PP2 (?), not sure Chytil or Gauthier ever play on PP
@AdamZHerman
The Rangers are out-attempting the Devils 17-3 when Chytil and Kakko are on the ice at 5v5 and they have received fewer minutes than anyone except for Gauthier.
8:55 PM · Jan 19, 2021
I do not think Kakko looks good. I think Chytil does. Kakko looks slow to me.
I do not think Kakko looks good. I think Chytil does. Kakko looks slow to me.
The big difference is that Chytil brings the puck into the zone and I think gets a lot of cheapy shots on goal (they dont mean much as they are just launches at the net). If we had a power guy like LeClair or Corey Perry or Marleau whose game was going to the net, Chytil would be fine. But playing with Kakko who is more of a shooter, Chytil is generally too deep before Kakko can be effective.
I think it was a mistake dropping Kakko at this point.
Quinn needs to go right now.
The good news is that the Devils haven't had any back to backs yet and won't before Aaron Dell is cleared. The Devils luckily avoided having to start Wedgewood.
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Tough start to season, another big test tomorrow.
The good news is that the Devils haven't had any back to backs yet and won't before Aaron Dell is cleared. The Devils luckily avoided having to start Wedgewood.
Totally agree.... Not expecting much so anything that comes on the upside, I'll take
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In comment 15128658 Sec 103 said:
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Tough start to season, another big test tomorrow.
The good news is that the Devils haven't had any back to backs yet and won't before Aaron Dell is cleared. The Devils luckily avoided having to start Wedgewood.
Totally agree.... Not expecting much so anything that comes on the upside, I'll take
I know it's early but the Devils could fight for a playoff spot if they remain healthy. Blackwood is playing lights out and this isn't a fluke. Blackwood was one of the few bright spots last season and he continues to improve with experience.
The Devils need Hischier back ASAP. Hopefully his return will get Gusev and Palmieri going. They have combined for just 2 assists this season. If the Devils are to have a chance they will need both to produce.
how is their defensive system different? I have not been following but interested
Good thing fans aren't in the arenas because Jack Johnson's slappers are bound to kill someone.
And yeah, his shots don't come within 5 feet of the net.
Some of that is on him, some of that is a solid forward scheme to clog the middle and then Johnson not being smart enough to dish it instead of shooting.
Trouba also had a shot blocked I believe to give up the Hughes breakaway.
shot blocking and face offs, so underrated, so impactful
Probably both, Johnson had one that looked like an intentional shot off net (you know sometimes players go off net on purpose hoping the bounce off the boards opens an opportunity - the other two were right down the middle - maybe Trouba, I thought it was Johnson).
I missed the first, but Kakko looks to lack real explosion - which he did show prior to the Rangers drafting him. There was a play where Kakko had the puck and Chytil blew past him to go off-side.
Kakko looks nothing like he did in the World Championship.
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On those rare occasions when he was on the ice, anyway.
I missed the first, but Kakko looks to lack real explosion - which he did show prior to the Rangers drafting him. There was a play where Kakko had the puck and Chytil blew past him to go off-side.
Kakko looks nothing like he did in the World Championship.
Could be still growing.
I forget who it was, one Rangers prospect i was reading about grew 3 inches post NHL draft (Robertson? I forget, might not have even been Rangers)
so, who knows some 18/19 year old boys are still growing and as someone who coaches adolescents there is an adjustment period and some awkwardness, haven't seen that from Kakko, but we only see games.
It's partly why they say generally big players (like Kreider, Byfield, maybe even Kakko) having a longer process getting acclimated to the NHL - they have to relearn some things and grow into their bodies).
But Kakko hasn't looked great.
Georgiev hasn't played well but the defense remains a joke.
Greg the first 2 goals were absolutely on Georgiev. There should never have been rebounds. They were 2 soft glove side shots that any goalie in the NHL needs to glove. Sure the other 2 goals were on the D. But one was a beautiful set up in the PP.
they're both legit NHL centers now.
Suzuki wasn't as high a pick as Kakko, but Kotkaniemi was #3 overall.
let these guys develop, realize it's a process, and pray they have good coaching and captains.
Good point. Most of these kids are physically ready to play in the NHL as we saw with Hughes last season. We saw flashes here and there but he often looked physically overmatched.
Hughes added 14 pounds of muscle this offseason and he looks like a different player than a year ago.
It's an interesting move especially with Vatanen joining the roster in a few days. Bahl would bring a physical presence to the blue line if he is ready for the NHL.
And...skating is one of those things that even at their ages can be improved.
Look at Marchand, Kotkaniemi, etc. so many player improve their skating.
And...skating is one of those things that even at their ages can be improved.
Look at Marchand, Kotkaniemi, etc. so many player improve their skating.
Get 'em Barb Underhill
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may not be in McDavid or Hughes class as a skater (not many are), but I don't think it was a weakness for either.
And...skating is one of those things that even at their ages can be improved.
Look at Marchand, Kotkaniemi, etc. so many player improve their skating.
Get 'em Barb Underhill
lol tons of skating coaches.
you want to see a player who was good, but had skating issues it's Jan Mysak and he dropped to the 3rd round because of it and my hope is it gets corrected in the NHL because he's got a ton of talent, but real skating issues can be insurmountable and neither Kakko or Lafreniere have skating issues.
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In comment 15128762 Greg from LI said:
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On those rare occasions when he was on the ice, anyway.
I missed the first, but Kakko looks to lack real explosion - which he did show prior to the Rangers drafting him. There was a play where Kakko had the puck and Chytil blew past him to go off-side.
Kakko looks nothing like he did in the World Championship.
Could be still growing.
I forget who it was, one Rangers prospect i was reading about grew 3 inches post NHL draft (Robertson? I forget, might not have even been Rangers)
so, who knows some 18/19 year old boys are still growing and as someone who coaches adolescents there is an adjustment period and some awkwardness, haven't seen that from Kakko, but we only see games.
It's partly why they say generally big players (like Kreider, Byfield, maybe even Kakko) having a longer process getting acclimated to the NHL - they have to relearn some things and grow into their bodies).
But Kakko hasn't looked great.
I think he has looked better in his own end and on back checking (I know its only 3 games, but I definitely noticed he was more active that way), but he still seems like such a lamb looking for his own shots. He reminds me of RJ Barrett as a hockey player.
Hes got a great shot and is a strong guy, I thought he would be looking to shoot by now.
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In comment 15129244 pjcas18 said:
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may not be in McDavid or Hughes class as a skater (not many are), but I don't think it was a weakness for either.
And...skating is one of those things that even at their ages can be improved.
Look at Marchand, Kotkaniemi, etc. so many player improve their skating.
Get 'em Barb Underhill
lol tons of skating coaches.
you want to see a player who was good, but had skating issues it's Jan Mysak and he dropped to the 3rd round because of it and my hope is it gets corrected in the NHL because he's got a ton of talent, but real skating issues can be insurmountable and neither Kakko or Lafreniere have skating issues.
Pj, I def never played as much as you, but Ive always been a good skater (only reason I was able to stick around a bit), can you give some examples of "skating issues"? I started skating when I was 4 and I guess never needed much instruction on crossing over, skating backwards on the fly... I was always good about trusting my edges. Im just curious what constitutes an "issue."
Thanks in advance and sorry if I am mossing something and sound like a gnube.
Right, but on the line he is currently on (Chytil, DiGiuseppe/Gauthier) who is he passing to? I am not saying he is Brett Hull, but FFS, I want him to shoot more. He looks great doing it as you mentioned it.
It's so technical these days it's all about bend, stride, power, step, angles, acceleration, etc.
So someone like Kakko next to your or I looks like elite, but next to McDavid or Hughes people see he's not as polished.
And bad is relative. so I hate to give examples.
IMO it's a like running a 4.5 40 which for most people is world class, but when you see a Tyreek Hill run a 4.2 you see how much different elite speed is.
In small spaces it doesn't make much difference (partly why Hughes struggled last year, he couldn't get to open space, he needed to be stronger - everywhere - on the boards cycling, in scrums, on his skates, etc), but in open space it's a big advantage.
Great point.
And it's not just or always speed. Sydney Crosby has the best edge work I've ever seen in my life (I hear some people say Bobby Orr, but he was before my time). The way Crosby leans, crosses over, tight turns, etc. is how you would create a hockey skating text book if there was one.
I use Crosby clips all the time to show my kids applied use of the techniques we teach them.
But watching the Rangers Devils last night, holy shit, Jack Hughes gets to top speed quicker than almost anyone I've seen outside McDavid in the NHL right now, but he has good edge work along with it. Some people don't.
*Cindy* Crosby
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Personally, I mostly hate watching striders, but then you watch Sergei Fedorov glide through defenders and finish. I have always had a shorter stride because I could move them quicker than most and it helped me take turns a little tighter. PK Subban is very choppy (no pun intended) when he skates and I am more that style of skater. But then you have these beasts like Vinny Lecavalier, LeClair, Lindros, Recchi, Kopitar and Malkin who explode to top speed, and turn like a rattlesnake. I watched Mike Grier play live in High School and even he was just another level.
Great point.
And it's not just or always speed. Sydney Crosby has the best edge work I've ever seen in my life (I hear some people say Bobby Orr, but he was before my time). The way Crosby leans, crosses over, tight turns, etc. is how you would create a hockey skating text book if there was one.
I use Crosby clips all the time to show my kids applied use of the techniques we teach them.
But watching the Rangers Devils last night, holy shit, Jack Hughes gets to top speed quicker than almost anyone I've seen outside McDavid in the NHL right now, but he has good edge work along with it. Some people don't.
McDavid is incredible obviously, but Crosby might be the 2nd best all around skater I have ever seen. His circles are just infuriatingly tight. McDavid might actually be better, but I think its Crosby's anticipation and penchant for being in the right space that sets him apart from the rest.
I think bar none, my favorite skater ever has to be Scott Niedermayer. People talk about Coffey being effortless, I have never seen anybody move forwards, backwards and laterally like he did. I would have loved to have seen him and Crosby head to head. Usually though, Niedermayer really didnt have to skate like crazy because of his stick work and positioning, but Niedermayer or Selanne are my all timers.
Last year I would have said you just had a dump your pants about the less than mighty Quinn, but he might actually be trying to dissuade Kakko from playing to his strength. Unfortunate if true.
And you nailed it about Fox and the long speed. I still think he can be an all star, but if he had Brian Rafalski wheels going up ice he would truly be scary.
I think Bure and Selanne are a push honestly. But thing his, when Selanne got to top speed, he could turn like a bastard too. The Russian Rocket was as you said, straight line.
I love this stroll down memory lane of some of these guys who were so incredible on their blades. Another one was Ulf Samuelsson....he was known for being a head cracker, but that guy was a terrific skater. His balance was what allowed him to play so big.
I was originally gonna applaud ypur call thinking of the same player, but I only remember Geoff Courtnall....who was a pain in the dick as a hockey player.
I was originally gonna applaud ypur call thinking of the same player, but I only remember Geoff Courtnall....who was a pain in the dick as a hockey player.
Russ was better early in his career and Geoff was better later, so maybe that's why I remember Geoff as the better player. Russ was definitely the better skater. He could absolutely fly.
He was a god fpr 3 franchises right? NYR, PITT and MTL no?
Agreed.. Was both a pup and a pap as a Ranger
Obviously rightfully so Messier gets all the credit for game 6 in '94 vs the Devs but Kovalev's goal late in the 2nd really started to turn that game around. Before that it was mostly all Devs.
Yes Stu, agreed. I know the focus of this is on Kovalev but Richter was huge in this game. This and the 96 Canada Cup was Mike Richter at his best.
I really thought in 94 we were developing a superstar on the Rangers (I am sure I am not alone)
The 7 minute shift
Kovalev talks about it at the reunion - first question from Al.
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Obviously rightfully so Messier gets all the credit for game 6 in '94 vs the Devs but Kovalev's goal late in the 2nd really started to turn that game around. Before that it was mostly all Devs.
Yes Stu, agreed. I know the focus of this is on Kovalev but Richter was huge in this game. This and the 96 Canada Cup was Mike Richter at his best.
I really thought in 94 we were developing a superstar on the Rangers (I am sure I am not alone)
The 7 minute shift
Kovalev talks about it at the reunion - first question from Al.
Absolutely, I mentioned Kovy's goal but Richter saved that game early. The Devs got the 2-0 lead early but Richter stood on his head and never gave them the 3rd goal while they were dominating.
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Taking all those penalties. The Rangers have some of the best skill in the NHL to throw out there on the PP. In 3+ games the Devs have given up 1 even strength goal that's insane. Especially when you factor in they are playing a totally new defensive type system that's unique to most everyone in the NHL.
how is their defensive system different? I have not been following but interested
Sorry never saw this post. It mainly has to do with the unique fwd assignments coming back to help in the D zone. Their assignments can change depending on what order they enter the D zone. I linked an article where Bryce Salvador explains it better than I can.
Link - ( New Window )