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 Skookum Jim
Messages: 6158
Registered: March 2006
Location: Burnaby, BC
6 Cups
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| Mike wrote on Mon, 27 May 2024 10:24 |
| RDOilerfan wrote on Mon, 27 May 2024 14:14 |
I will give Knoblauch props, he's got balls.
Scratching McLeod to get Henrique in is not an easy move but probably the right move. Hopefully this is a wake up call as he has to go to the net to have a chance top score and he isn't right now. Lots of times playoffs are all about who's going and who's excelling in the role the team needs and right now, defensively he's been OK at times but teams need some level of scoring from their 3rd line and he's not giving them any.
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McLeod has absolutely elite speed, and that is awesome. But I literally don't recall many softer/easier to play against players than him. Finishing your check in the NHL, let alone in round 3 of the playoffs, is not optional - it is part of your job.
Not sure I would have taken him out instead of Ryan, but hopefully it's a one game thing and it lights a fire under him. Because he does have the skills to be effective - he just needs to want it.
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His problem with avoiding finishing checks and engaging physically, like going to the front of the net or working along the boards to retrieve/retain pucks.. has been an issue of his since junior.. he had 1st round draft speed and size.. but dropped to the Oilers mid 2nd round.. I remember his AHL coaches saying that was his major issue in Bakersfield.. consistently.. it appears to be a mental block with him.. almost phobia-like.. thats what makes hin so frustrating to watch .. high end talent.. especially speed.. but lacking the required CPU to use it effectively .
Still a bold decision.. the Oiler PK has been rock solid .. McLeod's speed being a major contributor.. even when he avoids contact.. of teh guys to come out for Henrique's addition.. Mcleod was not the 1st or 2nd I had on that list.. hope K-blok is right!
[Updated on: Mon, 27 May 2024 16:23]
McDAVID! Oh YEAH Baby!! (Thank you Lord!)
Tic-Tac-Tao!
Keep on Rockin' in the Free World
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