I watched most of both games; his skating looked significantly better compared to the games leading up to the injury. He appeared lighter and less heavy-footed, although it's definitely still a work in progress.
The Calgary Hitmen's power play (PP), when Yakemchuk was either absent or injured, operated at about 14% early in the season (over 5 games) and about 15% during his recent injury (over 7 games). I think this is a large enough sample to suggest that Calgary struggles without Yakemchuk on the power play. Overall it is 20.9%.
For the first time this year, he is back in his proper role as PPQB. Yakemchuk is good in the Ovechkin role, but I prefer him up top. They have Mynio and Kindly playing the half-wall, and it looks to be working, with them going 3 for 5 last night.
Yakemchuk has been paired with Mynio, and I think they will be awesome together.
Yakemchuk made some high-level stretch passes in both games, but there was no finish.
He also made some unforced errors and weird mistakes that need to be cleaned up.
He needs to go on an offensive run or this season will look like a bit of a disappointment. He is extremely talented, but his production could be better and should be now that he is surrounded with some better talent.
