I don't think it'd be too farfetched to say that Kovalchuk became better from being on a line with Parise. Parise and Henrique have become what Zajac used to be to Parise: the guy(s) that does the unflattering dirty work so that a guy can succeed. And by having to watch and be a part of Parise's play every time he's on the ice, Kovy has seen what he can do to be a better player. It's really been the perfect scenario.
I know Henrique's been a godsend, but I really hope we get to see what a glue-guy like Zajac can do between the two of them one day.
I don't think it'd be too farfetched to say that Kovalchuk became better from being on a line with Parise. Parise and Henrique have become what Zajac used to be to Parise: the guy(s) that does the unflattering dirty work so that a guy can succeed. And by having to watch and be a part of Parise's play every time he's on the ice, Kovy has seen what he can do to be a better player. It's really been the perfect scenario.
I know Henrique's been a godsend, but I really hope we get to see what a glue-guy like Zajac can do between the two of them one day.
I think that Henrique will be better than Zajac in the future.
I think that Henrique will be better than Zajac in the future.
He might be the better offensive player. And he certainly doesn't seem like he's gonna be a slouch defensively. But Zajac got offense out of Kovy in one of the Devils' worst seasons in 20 years. Last season really opened my eyes to how important a guy like Zajac can be. He does his best work where people pay attention the least, and that's along the boards and in the defensive zone.
I'd almost want Henrique anchoring his own line since, at this team, it seems like he has the offensive flare to score on his own. But Zajac is the unassuming, do-it-all player I'd rather see with the two superstars.
While anyone watching the Devils games this year might be inclined to say "Kovy", Parise is being largely wasted on the same line with Kovalchuk. There is only one puck, and puck possession is a huge part of Kovy's game, thus he gets it.
Not to mention, Parise is much better defensively, less of a risk, a much better forechecker, and a "leader by example" on the ice.
Kovalchuk was the first Russian to be drafted #1 overall. I'm not a big fan of draft placement in some instances, but there was a reason why he was the undisputed #1 overall pick. Zach simply doesn't have that type of pedigree. Zach is a nice player who works his ass off and wills himself to success, while everything comes much easier for Kovalchuk. In terms of pure hockey ability, Kovalchuk is a clear tier above Parise.
While anyone watching the Devils games this year might be inclined to say "Kovy", Parise is being largely wasted on the same line with Kovalchuk. There is only one puck, and puck possession is a huge part of Kovy's game, thus he gets it.
Not to mention, Parise is much better defensively, less of a risk, a much better forechecker, and a "leader by example" on the ice.
I wouldn't say Parise is being wasted playing with Kovy, Parise gets alot of good scoring chances but has had some trouble finishing this year
