I don't know how Farrell gets back into this lineup. No one deserves to sit. What a game by Laval.
As for our prospects, Xhekaj, Tuch & Engstrom had outstanding games. ABB is going to be a big help to Roy.
Fun game.
This is an entertaining and fun team to watch.
Here are my observations about tonight's game. Again, I will only focus on our prospects:
To this observer,
Roy was the best forward for Laval, playing effectively in both ends of the rink. Most importantly, Roy was moving his feet, jumping into open ice and showing surprising speed on the backcheck. Roy exhibited his vision, anticipation, great release and ability to get his shot away in close quarters. If Roy contains to maintain this level of play he'll be among the first call ups to Montreal.
Without Mailloux, I found that Laval's defence was very susceptible to the Syracuse fore-check.
Engstrom again demonstrated that he is probably too good for the AHL. When he wasn't on the ice, Laval was in trouble in their zone. Engstrom showed very good mobility and was able to control the puck in the offensive zone for long periods of time. He sees the ice well and can make clever passes that free up teammates. It would not surprise me if Montreal continues to struggle, that Engstrom will be called up. He was easily the best player on the ice this game.
Tuch again had a strong game showing excellent speed that allowed him to repeatedly beat defenders wide and he played a very physical game. Tuch was a wrecking ball on the ice as opposing players just bounced off him when trying to check him. Tuch is as certain to make the Canadiens as any of our prospects. He has a NHL speed and strength.
Beck, while not having his best game, continues to show off his powerful skating. Beck once again played on Laval's No. 1 power play unit where he teamed up well with Roy. Beck, who had several scoring chances and made several creative passes that almost led to goals, wasn't as dominant in the face off circle in this game.
While both
Mesar and
Davidson had their moments tonight, it is most probable that neither will play in Montreal this year. Interestingly, in a 4 on 4 situation, the coaches had both Mesar and Davidson on the ice together. Not Beck nor other more experienced veterans. With the extra ice, Mesar was really able to demonstrate his high end skills. If this kid continues to grow as a player he will definitely make the NHL.
Xhekaj had a great game displaying the straight line speed and subtle play making ability that he showed in Brantford. This kid was a force tonight. Xhekaj’s speed allowed him to beat defenders to the net on multiple occasions and, with a little bit of luck, he could have had several goals. If Xhekaj can gain that missing half step of quickness he will be a force in the AHL and, ultimately, at the next level.
Trudeau had a quiet game, but for a defenceman, that is probably a good thing. I didn't see him make any glaring mistakes and he continued to show his good mobility. This kid continues to demonstrate he has the tools to play at the NHL level.