Whenever someone wants to praise him they usually bump up his contract thread. But after watching him play throughout the preseason and this season so far (albeit only 5 games in), I believe he deserves his very own appreciation thread. He's been making all the right plays and that contract does NOT look like an over-payment at all ATM. He looks a little faster and looks much more confident this year. Making smart defensive decisions, finally connecting on his long passes, and committing way fewer turnovers. Keep it up Nikita! We're ALL fans of your game right now.
The less we hear about Z, the better. When hes not playing like ass hes a legit 3. When he plays like a 3 he won't be noteworthy, which is great.
Zaitsev is the same player. This year just seems he just more fluid on his skates. Maybe he was playing hurt last season?