Quote:
Originally Posted by CliffFletcher
Comparing scoring stats gives us only part of the picture. Half of the game is played without the puck, and Monahan is poor at forechecking, back-checking, cycling, coming back deep to support the D. He’s a one dimensional player. Schmaltz isn’t a superstar, but he can skate well, carry the puck, check, and do all of the things expected of an NHL centre that Monahan struggles with.
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This entire season under Sutter has been about making sure Monahan concentrated on the defensive side of his game. He didn't move up in the lineup until Sutter was satisfied, and it's visually a difference in Monahan's game to watch him on the ice. He is playing better under Sutter. I'm not saying that the defensive side is a strength, but it's not the weakness that people are making it out to be. Not this year.