The claim that our top line was absent is valid if going by collective draft pedigree of Virtanen-McCann-Cassels v Horvat-Shinkaruk-Fox.
You can tell what particular neurosis ravaged the upper brass of both clubs the last few years by their prospects. Edmonton is all about size and Van is about grit, initiating more than their share of rough stuff and letting nothing slip sans prompt retaliation (my boy Wilson
). We got tons of penalties in the first half and deserved them all and maybe more. Lots of heavy hits being thrown, as well as stick work going on behind the play. Can't wait for Calgary. Could get real nasty.
The
without the puck stick work of Fox and Shinkaruk was noticeable. I dare say rat like. If either makes it to the show they will not be liked. Hunter's claimed 186lbs looks legit and size will no longer be an issue if he keeps improving in other areas.
Subban gained some as well but the change is not as drastic. Rushes the puck well but like all our D had some positioning miscues and fumbles. Need to see him defending against regulars and how he does along the boards.
Newsflash: Corrado isn't the second coming of Tanev.
Gaunce lost a little weight but looks taller. Seems faster too (as does Horvat). Alas, it didn't translate into him being any more dangerous offensively. Him and Jensen need to step it up. Not horrible just didn't generate much if any chances.
Cederholm >>> Liberati and McEneny. Granted none of these guys is much of a threat to get more than a cup of coffee in the show.
As for Horvat, he is what he is, an unflashy corsi/fenwick suppressor that wins puck battles an makes safe % plays. Simply, if Draisaitl is sticking with Oilers, as we all know he will, then Horvat should easily stick as well (but we all know he won't). Wouldn't look out of place in our bottom 6 right now.
The Fox goal came as a result of Horvat caused turnover. Line started slowly and got better as the game went on, but,
like last year at this tournament, I didn't see any of that often mentioned "chemistry" between Bo and Hunter, beyond what might be expected of any two good players thrown together haphazardly. Long term Nucks may want to rethink that.