I've noticed more consistently good play in his own zone for sure, but I also notice times where he's hemmed in regularly. To be expected from a young defenseman I guess, but I'm not ready for him to be any higher than a 3rd pairing d-man in terms of ice time.
The physical side is better for sure, and I think he's adequate finally against NHL players in that regard. He's never going to be the guy clearing the net, but neither is Brodie and he's been a very good defenseman over his career.
The one complaint I have is how he doesn't back in with speed against quick forwards. He ends up turning around a lot and daring them to go around him. His speed makes up for this, but then he's facing the wrong way to defend after the rush and it will lead to problems if he doesn't change it. Back in with speed so you can stop and head the other direction should the puck turn over. If you always have to turn around to defend, you're never in a good position to use your speed and skating to get an offensive chance the other way. That's how he can be most effective with his skillset.
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"You know, that's kinda why I came here, to show that I don't suck that much" ~ Devin Cooley, Professional Goaltender
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