I think Sven needs a full season to realize the temperature of a consistent NHL-level experience. I believe once he figures out the pace and physical expectations, he's going to round out and get comfortable in his skates.
I would be very confident in saying that he's probably sniper-focused on trying to round out the deficiencies in his game, as would any player who is trying to stay with the team. I'm sure Hartley, his teammates and his agent (not to mention Burke) have already planted the idea in his head that he has to be better in the other zones of the ice, and he's working to grow on those. Let's not forget that this guy is also a pretty creative offensive player, so when he figures out how to play a solid backcheck with his offensive style, he's going to be dynamite. Give it time.
I predict a mediocre first half of the season, but will be picking it up quite well in the second half. I predict a 10 goal, 35 point performance for his first full NHL season. And that's not a bad thing.
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