I think my biggest issue with the trade is that to me what McLeod does effectively isn't something that Buffalo is well-positioned to capitalize on. McLeod can at times neutralize play effectively with his reasonably good mobility and puck-carrying ability. which is what the defensive metrics are actually reflecting in my view. As we all saw, that doesn't translate effectively to playoff hockey.
Ok, suppose the Sabres say we're not considered with his playoff shortcomings at this stage, we're just trying to improve the on-ice product (I think that's short-sighted, but whatever). I still don't think what McLeod does well translates. McLeod's ability to neutralize shifts I think was helpful in the Oilers' regular season play, largely because they have an absolutely nuclear top six that allows them to play with a lead more often than most teams. On the Oilers' roster, McLeod was a good fit because his ability to transport the puck on McDavid and Draisaitl's off shifts helped take the sting out of things. Unfortunately, the Thompson and Cozens lines don't have the firepower to put McLeod in those favorable positions nearly as often.
I actually have no issue with them moving Savoie for a "3C", I just think they targeted the completely wrong profile of player. A guy in the Adam Lowry mold (not saying Lowry himself was available) would've been a huge addition for a Buffalo team that needs guys who can contribute effectively in a broader range of situations, and who can compete in the difficult areas of the ice. McLeod has a very narrow range of utility and I don't think this Sabres roster is well-designed to capitalize on it at all, frankly.
Thoughtful post… many are saying McLeod is strong defensively… the metrics say so!
It’s just not true.
1) He’s a great skating puck transporter who who lacks any “final mile” skills to beat defenders 1:1, or to thread a deft pass, or to snipe from distance… so to his credit he has recently learned to recognize his shortcomings and dump the puck.
2) Defensively he’s a puck hound, and elite skating, which makes him great on the backcheck… but
3) he has zero clues and zero balls in his own zone (or in the hard ice pretty much anywhere on the sheet)…
So no he’s not a defensive center man who can contribute 30+ points while playing reliably in his own zone against the opponents best… he’s a dogged skater who offers not much else, but because his skating is elite AND he has recognized his own offensive shortcomings, he plays a simple game of puck retrieval, zone transition and dump….
If you look at the metrics with any semblance of “eye test” that’s what you will immediately see.
Maybe he’ll eventually find his Todd Marchand/Andrew Cogliano moment but I don’t think it’s going to come easy for him… he lacks the level of compete those guys had and frankly lacks the hockey IQ.
Great hockey smile though… good kid and teammate from all accounts.
