TO ME, it looked like he was gonna cry about being traded. Looked like he had been traded to some bottom dweller. From a 50,000 foot view winning a Stanley cup is not on the top of his list of things he wants to do(in comparison to cogs) he doesn’t play with any grit. Just feels like he is more concerned about his girlfriend, losing all his friends. Like someone kicked his dog.. I WASNT IMPRESSED AT ALL. Just my initial observations
I mean I’d assume it was hard to get traded and his life uprooted at his age. He probably thought he was a going to be a part of the solution. He probably is concerned about his girlfriend haha. These guys have lives and I can’t imagine being moved around with no real say. Yes these guys are athletes and they know it’s part of the job, but I cant say I wouldn’t be a bit conflicted. I’ve quit jobs to move to other jobs and I’ve felt like that for a little while.
That being said, I didn’t think he played without grit. He’s been in on system his entire pro career and it’s probably a lot to take in. Nevermind he is navigating getting to know the guys.
I thought he gave an excellent effort defensively, made a couple nice passes and was engaged, if not a little lost for parts of the night.
TMV actually did a video presentation on his site about this and called some Avs fans taking a while to warm up to him. He’s not the Kadri style of play and you have to get used to what he bring to the table because expectations are going to be sky high. I have no doubt in my mind he will grow to be loved and be a critical piece going forward.