From a territorial / Systems stand point last nights game was not significantly different then the performance against the Rangers. Funny how the same game with only slightly better execution can lead to a completely different result.
-Sedins and Higgens continue to be our best forwards on the season. If Chris can stay healthy that 2-year deal is going to look like an absolute steal. Hank scores a power play goal on a slapper from 15 feet, wtf is that all about?
-First unit power play looked better with Salo but Bieksa was terrible with the second unit. His body of work on the power play going back to last season is horrible, yet here he is. Puck control by the first unit was fantastic, main issue right now is point players missing the net, breaking sticks, or just duffing their shots. I think Salo caught the same bug that Edler has had to start the season. As for the 5 on 3's,, I really don't understand why they change up the first unit. I get that it's a bit different strategy but the unfamiliarity created by bringing in such a different configuration leads to more mistakes and poor execution. Just throw out the first unit.
-Most encouraging performance up front was Sturm, who looked like a different player then the guy we saw benched 2 games ago. Looked faster, was more aggressive, and probably the best player on his line. Why didn't he play like that last week?
-Most disappointing performance had to be Hodgson, who likely had his worst game. He wasn't "bad" and he still generated quite a bit offensively, but the "zip" we have seen most of the season just wasn't there. He's either a bit tired or the defensive struggles he is feeling from the position change is affecting the rest of his game. That said, even though his all round game was poor, he still made a number of excellent passes and clearly has the higher end skill that is very lacking among our bottom 9 forwards.
-At the Back I though Ballard stood out. Skated miles, moved the puck well, made some good hits. Really seems to be improving since the coaches have increased his ice time. He still made a couple of errors that were head scratchers but he does seem to be finding his grove. Now just get him on the dam power play, cripes.
-Bottom 6 over all had a good night outside of Malholtra who continues to struggle. Hansen had his best game, Lappy continued his excellent start and Volpatti brought the type of physical game we need from a player with his very limited ability. Weiss had the goal and was clearly the stand out, at this point he is looking like an ideal 4th liner and at 23 there could still be some upside. Good pick up there, hell that might be the best move of the off season
-And as for our much maligned goalie. Thank go he didn't do anything else to embarrass himself, I can only imagine the nonsense we would be seeing right now if Lu had done anything face palm worthy.