Northern Avs Fan
Registered User
- May 27, 2019
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I don't think either Byram or Makar have the legs to run 28-30 minute nights consistently. Their skating relies on explosion so much that they will wear down and lose some of their edges. In spurts and in playoffs, yeah, they will have to find higher gears at times... but regular season they will be more 22-24 minute guys. I don't think Girard should play 30 minutes, but his skating is the type that allows huge minutes without impacting greatly. He's got the legs to pull those numbers off.
I feel like Byram is pretty smooth with his skating, just lacks top-end speed. If anything holds him back minutes wise it will be his overall talent imo. Which could be great at the NHL level, or not. It’s hard to know yet, not seeing him out of junior hockey.
Physical conditioning is going to be critical for Makar’s game. Similar to MacKinnon, both guys do a lot of stopping and starting. I think as he continues to work on his athleticism and strength for the NHL game that will help.