Holl's generally useful in PK and defensive situations by playing his length defending, disruption game but there's diminishing returns by the time you're in crease clearing mode and he's prone to the big error that becomes lethal.
this is so untrue and its the party line on him ...along with he has a good stick.
Holl has 3 major issues that make him a HUGE liability:
1. he cannot win any one on one battles be it along the boards, or in front of the net
2. his net front positioning is usually poor, and he's typically on the wrong side to tie up the player or their stick
3. he cannot clear the puck out of the defensive zone ...at least 4 of 5 clearing attempts barely make it to the blue line, forget out of the zone.
...so, sure, he's rangy and can put his stick in the right place to discourage a cross seam pass, but, once the puck is close to the net, or he is under any sort of pressure he is useless in his won end.
He doesnt bring anything outside of his zone either, but, I dont care as much about that, except when he makes really bad pinches, which thankfully havent been as frequent lately.
the 2nd part (italics) of your statement is right on the money!!
, unlike past years where it was like bringing a knife to a gun fight. Huge ROR fan and think he will be a difference maker.
"this time is different.
