Quote:
Originally Posted by Saqe
Iīve been really impressed by his defensive game. The way he backchecks (or finishes checks generally) and blocks shots is something I really didnīt expect. Also what Iīve seen he has been pretty good in face-offs.
|
Agree. That seems to be common among Finnish players, but that's not to detract from the responsibility he shows in all three zones. Mikko's probably the most-extreme example of that willingness to play defensively. He has said in the past that his natural inclination is to bail on the offensive zone to make sure he's in the best position to defend rather than stick around trying to score.
That's why I don't think Mikko's a true #1 center. He's too defensive-minded, or he's not offensive-minded enough is a better way to put it.