I’m hoping for a real strong year for him next season. His shoulder surgeries really killed this season for him, but hoping he’s playing pain free and we can see what he can bring to the team.
I agree...there are players that look like they have tools and skills like a Kupari, but are not able to separate themselves from players with less skill, that just look like they are part of a system. It's like they are not able to utilize their skills in a way to make impactful plays. Maybe it's a combo of confidence, worrying too much about making a mistake, or miss a defensive assignment, or lacking hockey IQ. Kupari is capable of making the play of the game, yet usually just blends in and rarely makes those plays...or also not looking very cohesive with his linemates. I'm not sure he will ever elevate, but maybe it would take putting him in top 6 for a few weeks, but that won't happen...at least now.
Then there are players that have above average skills, but have the it factor and better than average hockey IQ. They anticipate the play quicker, know where to be and can make things happen almost every shift. Trevor Moore is showing that now. He's not Mitch Marner, but he's not a 4th line plug. He's smart, has quick feet, works hard, but knows where to be and where his linemates are. He can execute most anything he tries, pretty well.
He has separated himself from bottom 6 players now.
From watching Thomas last night, it seems he has an it factor and looks a level above JAD and even Fagemo.
He is playing with confidence and was making an impact most every shift. From watching his interview, he said he was not happy with his 5 on 5 play and can be better....pretty crazy statement, from a player that just had a 3 goal and 4 point night! That's the type of player you want on your team. He's going to make it.
