Whipping boys are funny in that I think they generate so much angst that things get out of hand.
I see a guy that struggles getting the puck out of his own zone at times.
I see a guy that for whatever reason has gone through 6 weeks where plays die on his stick.
I didn't for see a 20 goal 50 point player, I thought he'd be 15 goals and 35 points or so and provide a lot of grit and leadership.
So at this point he's 5 goals and 9 assists short and unlikely to reach my goals. But I'm way more concerned at the puck always going off his stick or being bobbled.
But to say he has no jam is just silly, guy had 7 hits last night and one was the circus variety. I have little doubt about his effort and his drive to help the team. I know he's good in the room, and a guy that will snap if the team isn't going well. I worry that his ability to be pissed at his teammates is likely very hampered by his own play right now though.
His confidence is shot, I think that's the biggest issue.
|