- Sep 29, 2016
- 11,901
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Was it this one? http://nerdhockey.com/by-the-numbers/2015/8/7/when-do-nhl-forwards-regress
Conclusion "Prime seems to be more from the ages of 23-26."
Then he states the obvious " If you're very young and in the NHL, it's probably because you are very, very good. If you're very old and in the NHL, it's probably because you are still very, very good."
There's no general rule. Laich definitely peaked in that area and has declined rapidly. Talented, hard working guys like Hanzal are able to improve at 30 and beyond.
Did you guys see Jagr this preseason? I don't think he ever was as mobile and fast as he is now. He looked lightning fast. Really impressive.
Doan is another example. Got written off after a bad start last season. He looked terrible. In fact he just needed a few games to adjust and figure things out. He was able to rebound big time. I think last season was his best one in a few years. Of course it helped that the team has gotten significantly better but it's still impressive to see guys stepping up with +/- 40 years.
Selanne would be another example. Didn't lose the slightest bit of his skating until the end of his career.