Edited Apr. 28, 2021 at 12:44 p.m.
Quoting: MBJenucks
Why does Paul hate Niku so much? I think the guy should get a shot at top pair minutes. Niku has only been given a bottom pairing role and given no confidence from the coaching staff. I think it should be Morrissey - Pionk
Forbort - Niku
Benn - Demelo
We aren't winning a playoff round so don't waste Heinola or Samberg. Keep them for next year and keep having them play lots of minutes in high pressure situations to get them ready for the NHL season next year.
Certainly last year the observations from beat reporters was there was a work ethic issue with Niku, with him being the first one off the ice as opposed to staying to work and improve to get a roster spot. I suspect the team felt the couldn't count on him to step up so they looked elsewhere in the offseason. I don't believe Niku is top pairing material, but should have gotten an extended run out on the third pair where he would be sheltered and did well.
Niku's partners / minutes / expected GF percentage:
- DeMelo; 32 minutes; 53% xGF%
- Morrissey; 24 minutes; 34% xGF%
- Beaulieu; 14 minutes; 37% xGF%
- Forbort; 3 minutes; 23% xGF%
- Pionk; 2 minutes; 25% xGF%
- Stanley; 35 seconds; 0% xGF%
Same story is told when you also look at the forward groups and Niku -- much better being sheltered with the 4th line and caved in when he was on the ice with the first line.
McDavid, Connor
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