I think you've done an excellent job evaluating players here, well done!
IMO, with taking our expectations of them into account I only think a few are a little different for me
Smith - F
I think Smith has earned a full F in the first quarter. He was the starter, and a starter that they had enough confidence in to shake up the F and D in the off-season, but left G. Not only did he struggle, he downright cost games. If not for Rittich, this season is lost with Smith in net.
Valimaki - A-
I'd give him a bit more of a bump to A-, as his steady play has been huge for Calgary. With the top-4 playing as well as they are, having a solid and smart rookie-D back there has allowed this team to roll the D-corps with confidence. He's had a few odd moments that pull me back from 'A' but from what we could expect of him coming into the season he's definitely earned a good grade
Andersson - B+
See above
Gaudreau - A+
He is the catalyst on a top-line that is rolling. Gotta be a top grade
Bennett - A-
This is a tough one. I dropped down to A- as there's still a bit more he needs to finesse in his game - but it's actively happening. I'm really high on Bennett, so that could impact my grade as well. But to start the season, he's moved his way into top-player grades.
|