This team is definitely different. I remember in Steven's first press conference as head coach he identified the problems that he wanted to fix such as attacking the middle more, more high quality chances, have the defensemen join the rush more, but also keep the seem defensive style that has kept us successful over the past couple seasons. And i've said it in earlier GDTs this season, but this team far less predictable offensively. Over the past couple seasons since our last cup, we were easy to defend. It was hold the puck, try not to force plays, keep possession always and I think teams would let us do that, which would mean more perimeter shots. And so far so good as far as I'm concerned. The team is playing the way Stevens said they would. But its obviously not perfect and we've been fortunate the teams that we've faced so far have been pretty lackluster to say the least.
We can talk all day about how much better Kopitar and Brown have been playing, but I think the real surprise is Iafallo. No one knew anything about him when he signed, but hes been really impressive, even if the production isn't quite there yet. But he's creating space for Kopitar and Brown and reminds of Pearson in some ways. Before Clifford got hurt, the Clifford-Shore-Lewis line was arguably our best line most nights with how effective they were. I think the only issues we have right now is whatever Kempe's line is. He's just not making it happen right now when we need more.