Comparing initial to current projections shows that
Tkachuk 68 -> 69 has been steady this season, largely independent of the ebbs and flows of the rest of the team. Just more proof that he is future captain material
Gaudreau 60 -> 69 has elevated his game since december, much closer to his PPG norm, very consistent in the last two to three weeks
Monahan 65 -> 56 has struggled in the second half, pretty much the opposite of what Gaudreau has done in terms of trajectory
Lindholm 57 -> 65 started out strong and has continued to elevate, has found a knack for the net as he will set a career high in goals, by how much is yet to be determined
Backlund 32 -> 51 is the team's most improved player in 19-20 and I could see him even surpassing that total the way he's going
Giordano 40 -> 38 gio has been gio, missed some time which hurts totals, but is a lock to be a 0.5 PPG+ and best all around defenseman yet again
In terms of the top players on the team, on the whole it looks like the core has elevated its game at the right time. Those who were playing well have remained consistent and those that were struggling have taken strides, notably Backlund. The exception to this has been Monahan. If he can follow suit (had 4? goals on the trip which is a step forward) in the final weeks we'll be in great shape at the most important time.
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