Joined: Mar. 2019
Posts: 976
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Hmmmm, interesting. Definitely agree with most of this, will highlight a few I don't:
Marner - Point totals + defensive game will outweigh (to this point) lack of postseason success
Bobrovsky - 2 Vezinas alone may be enough, but several other high quality seasons + last playoffs helping on the narrative side
Hellebuyck - Similar to Bob, very similar career stats (few years behind), could very well have 2 Vezinas as well soon, just without the "he sucks in playoffs" baggage
McAvoy/Heiskanen - Not in the exact same boat but similar. Simply too early for me. Heiskanen is really breaking out offensively now, so the point totals will help his case. Unlike the other younger guys on the list, I think these guys are on a path to have LEGIT chances so I don't agree with them.
Backstrom - 1k points is big, injury issues last few years may give him the benefit of the doubt for some who may otherwise say no. Somewhat tied to Ovi as well and maybe that plays a role?