https://www.stanleycupofchowder.com/...st-round-recap
To start the playoffs, Joakim Nordstrom decided he was going to hit anything that moves.
Leading all Bruins in hits (31 through 8 games) despite not being the biggest guy, Nordstrom has added some much needed sandpaper to the B’s bottom six.
However Nordstrom’s contribution to the team’s success doesn’t stop with his increased aggression, as he’s also been huge for the Bruins in his own end.
Nordstrom leads all Bruins forwards in shots blocked so far, has won a ton of puck battles in the corner, and has put in some solid minutes on the PK, helping Boston improve their kill rate steadily as the playoffs have gone on.
While blocked shots and hits may not be great metrics when considering possession, they served their purpose in regard to Nordstrom’s role on the team.