Random thoughts
First game Carlsson really looked like an 18 year old new to North American ice. On a granular level, he did some fundamental things well, short passes, shrugging off physical challenges, staying engaged defensively. But he had to fight for space more and wasn't really effective at it and it led to a lot of poor pass attempts. I don't think he got much help from his linemates but he didn't have a good night.
Nesterenko still shows good signs in his game but his inconsistent execution is a bit concerning. I think some more time in San Diego might help him. This still wasn't an overly strong San Jose lineup and I can see him struggling to be effective once the league starts playing their regular rosters.
Dostal was excellent. Just an observation from last year but I feel like Dostal is ready to play will and he still hasn't had his spirit broken like Gibby.
Gawdin, I'll be honest I don't even know where he came from. You could tell me he was a recent draft pick, a little talked about AHL signing, or a PTO player and I'd believe any of them. Unless something happened while I wasn't looking, I didn't see him do a single good thing with the puck on his stick. It seemed like every time he had the puck, it led to an error. I wouldn't be surprised if he's in the next round of cuts.
Gudas, while I appreciated his physicality and standing up for Dostal, I really hope this was just a casual game for the guy. He was really swimming in the crease on multiple occasions and he wasn't doing an inexperienced Mintyukov any favors. On that note Minty had some solid play in his own end but for every net positive defensive play he made, he'd have coverage issues that kept the team hemmed in.
Vaakanainen was a big flopping nothing from my perspective.
Zellweger had a pretty good game for a back to back. He could definitely use more development in his defensive game but it's not like he's lazy in his own end. I wouldn't rule him out entirely from making the big club. With good in-season development he could add a lot to the blueline.
Gaucher still looks like he could be a solid third liner but he could use some AHL time to refine some elements of his game.
Pastujov, if he'll ever live up to his juniors production, has a long way to go I think. His timing is off, he's not strong enough on his skates, and he seemed panicky with the puck under pressure. Seemed to force plays with the puck more to get rid of it than to advance plays towards dangerous chances.
That's all I have energy for.
