I am worried about Kassian in tomorrow night's game. I am always worried about Kassian on the ice. Not because he is some tough guy - he is tough, but a spot-picker who doesn't seem capable of fighting in his own class - Brett Ritche's younger brother Nick Ritchie I thought had him for lunch before.
I worry about Kassian because he is a head hunter with his hits. I am sure he will try and make a 'statement game', and I can see him trying to take runs tomorrow night. That's fine - I have no issue with guys like Ferland doing that. Kassian isn't a clean hitter, and that's what I have a problem with. He is reckless. I am always worried about the reckless guys on the opposing teams. I don't expect 'fireworks'. Even Kassian knows that Khaira screwed up and had to answer the bell, and now it is 'over'. I do think he will, however, try to make a statement tomorrow night.
As an aside, I wonder when Simon, Rinaldo and Robinson get a turn. I think all 3 are players that Sutter likes - Simon has been useless, but he is actually good at chipping and chasing and being a puck-hound.
Robinson in particular is a guy I am eager to see under Sutter, as I think he is the type of player that Sutter falls in love with. Fast, physical, big, works hard, and has surprising hands at times. Don't know who you pull out (even when Nordstrom is healthy again). Wouldn't surprise me if Sutter has Rinaldo or Robinson in for tomorrow actually, and then back out of the lineup for the Leafs' game.
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