Quote:
Originally Posted by nieuwy-89
I also paid attention to Monahan. I know there was criticism of him the GT and PGT, but I actually thought he had a good game.
He was very aware and played well in the defensive zone. Good positioning, head on a swivel, active stick. In the neutral zone he carried the puck with speed a few times and had no issues gaining the blue line or getting the puck behind the Oilers defence. He's been doing this way better since they split him up with Johnny. His offensive game was quiet, but he won his battles in the offensive zone more often than not. Didn't generate a ton, but overall I thought he had a good game.
I think Sutter is trying to mould him into a more complete player. Last's nights game is a good example of a guy having a quiet, but effective night.
|
No doubt he is trying to make him more complete and there is some success.
But a 200 foot game requires some output in the offensive zone too and we're just not seeing enough. His defensive game isn't near the level it should be to make up for a lack of offense IMO. Sean Monahan isn't shutting anyone down.
It's great he can carry the puck and all but he is a $6 million plus player. Not a 3rd round pick trying to show he belongs in the NHL.
Let's face it, the Oiler big guns were pretty sleepy last night and that's a team you're going need to score against to win more often than not.