Quote:
Originally Posted by Cali Panthers Fan
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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Good observation. I wonder if a trial at RD would be a way to help break that habit? Obviously harder to defend after turning around on your weak side (greater penalty risk too) - though he would be set to turn inward on a turnover.
Seems like all the more reason to me to trade at least one of Brodie/Hamonic, especially if you think Valimaki could be back this year.