Every time I see Red team in the offensive zone, Larsson is controlling the pace. Haven't really noticed Brodin today; although he fanned on a nice feed from Scandella earlier.
Granlund has never shown his best in preseason. I bet he will be much better in regular season.
That's true. But while I didn't see the first scrimmage, in the second one he was already quite good. Especially early in the game he managed to slow things down in his own end, got some takeaways, made smart decisions with the puck and even threw his body around a little. He seemed to take it a bit easier when game was practically decided.
That Zucker-MG-Coyle line will dominate in the AHL. Their powerplay going to be very effective when they find more chemistry and fitting D's to the point.
Just posted a few of my thoughts on HW, heres a few...
Quote:
Charlie Coyle
Coyle has a large body that he uses effectively to provide a presence in front of the net and along the boards. He has a quick release, which he uses nicely with his strong base in order to provide offense in the slot. His skating is strong with good balance and strong edges and his top speed is deceptively fast, but he could improve his acceleration. His puck skills are above average but aren't going to win any fashion contests. He plays very simple and effective and has the tools to become a dangerous threat deep in the offensive zone. Coyle could pick up his physical intensity.
Projection: Top nine powerforward. His game relies on his size and strength in order to create havok amongst opposing defensemen. Maybe it was the fact it was a scrimmage, but Coyle could pick up his physical intensity.
Matt Hackett
Not as large as Kuemper, but makes up for it by being extremely active in his crease. He has very quick reflexes and is very confidence around his own net. He has great balance in his movements, which allows him to make those second and third saves. He also isn't afraid to come out and challenge the shot; his anticipation allows him to do so without creating an open net. His anticipation also allows him to cover the short side extremely well, cutting off passes or putting on a V-H stance in order to eliminate any potential plays.
Projection: 1A goaltender. Hackett is a very quiet goaltender in that he makes his saves look simple and moves around the net smoothly.
Coyle I think plays a very similar game to Latendresse, except that he's in much better physical shape and that could make him quicker and with better conditioning.
I don't think Coyle is going to be a star for us or anything. That's going to have to be Granlund, Zucker, and/or Phillips. Coyle is probably going to be that guy who slots into the middle of the line-up to round it out.
Looking back on the last couple Cup Champions, Coyle will be something along the lines of playoff Penner for Kings and Ducks, Recci/Ryder for Bruins, Ladd for Hawks, Kunitz for Pens, Franzen for Wings etc.
