Full credit to Minnesota for playing a hard-checking textbook road game, they gave us nothing for free offensively.
The Wild are a good veteran team. Not flashy, but, they have good structure and commitment from a team full of good two way players.
I'd keep Pyyhtia on the 2nd or 3rd line when some injured forwards are ready to join the lineup. I think he's got enough speed, consistent puck management and hockey sense to build chemistry with other skill guys.
Other than the continued development from the Russian’s and the “breakout” of KJ, Pyyhtia is probably the most surprisingly positive aspect I’ve taken away from the forwards to start the year.
I think you absolutely have to break up Chinakhov/Marchenko at this point, and I think Pyyhtia is probably just as good of an option as anybody to play on either of the “top 6” - Chinakhov/Monahan :: Fantilli/Marchenko, lines. Good, smart, TWO way player.
I wonder what are the key areas of focus and details in Fantilli's development plan this season (assuming there is a such plan). Aside from maybe not being a complete liability in d zone, so far he's looked as chaotic as ever, not really clicking with anyone offensively. Is he going to play center all year?
Fantilli’s linemates have been absolutely awful. Don’t get it. He can’t pass to these guys on the rush/in the neutral zone, and they aren’t good enough skaters or puck handlers to help sustain pressure or puck possession in the offensive zone. While he hasn’t looked great, the issue is CLEARLY his shit linemates.
imo
Also, I’d like to see Malatesta and Greaves at this point. And Brindley/Voronkov can’t come back soon enough.
This is officially the most embarassing thing the CBJ has ever done. I expect to see this thing driving up and down the short north doing brewery hops;
“Boomboni”
I’ll stand by this 100%, if it’s gateway to the return of the
OG, Boomer!!