Any other actual capable backup goalie or a few more starts for Korpisalo, in the stretch of games Merzlikins has started, results in 4-6 extra points for the team in the standings and puts them right there with the other teams in the wildcard race. The team needs to call up 1 of the guys from Cleveland for an extended period to see if they can fill a backup role, or find a backup somewhere in another organization. Send Merzlikins to Cleveland. If he's, "too good" for that, send him back to Europe for more "seasoning" or "development". I don't think the size of the ice is the issue with him, its the size of the nets in relation to NHL shooters.
Idk just how much people expected from the 2 YOUNG players Texier and Bemstrom, or how much it increased for Texier after a few early games, but, THE REAL ISSUE is not only how Atkinson and Anderson are playing/producing currently, but, what (IMO) they are as hockey players. For being considered a 20-30 goal scorer (Anderson) and a 30-40 goal scorer (Atkinson) both guys are quite below average when it comes to their actual shooting or finishing ability. Same can be said for each guys passing/playmaking and their overall puck control/hands.
They are both good (or can be good) on the rush, in open space, and/or when they aren't playing like "superstars".
IMO, Anderson is better in a more controlled/calm state on the ice. He seems to have an issue being able to turn all/any of his, "head, "hands", or "legs" down a notch, or "slow the game down", when it is needed.
Atkinson almost has the complete opposite problem. As some have said, he needs to remember (or be reminded) how much of his past offense (and goal production) was influenced by his work away or without the puck. Many times in years past, Atkinson was 1 of, if not the most tenacious/effective forecheckers on not only the team, but, you could literally say the LEAGUE, in regards to being a threat on the PK or on a shift to shift basis, IMO. Much of the time, obviously not taking anything away from the Dubinsky/Calvert/Jenner/Foligno's of the past, Atkinson was a huge part in being responsible for defensive plays leading to odd man breaks for the CBJ, or made things happen because of simple hard work forechecking or during the cycle.
Not only is it a huge impact (for a guy like Atkinson OR the entire team) to simply not have Panarin there on the ice
helping, its just as big of an impact BEING USED TO HIM BEING THERE.
Obviously, most people here don't think "long term" at all, but, its still quite early for the team to gain full chemistry with how last year ended and how much roster overhaul there has been since then.
With that said, DUMP.......yes, DUMP Merzlikins and Wennberg.
