Not a pretty game.
Bussi makes alot of saves, gives up ALOT of chances, rebound control is bad. I do love his compete level and that little Tim Thomas energy but his fundamentals look rough. I do see the effort, he puts a lot into stopping the puck. Scary to rely on as an NHL back up though. The D looked awful also so it wasn’t just him, he did make some really nice saves then big rebounds then have to make big saves again. Sometimes it works but after a while it’s gonna burn you. Entertaining to watch though, I’ll give him that, but don’t want him seeing many NHL games.
1st period started solid before the penalties, they couldn’t get into a groove. Some lines would have real dominant cycling moments but not create too many dangerous chances.
I liked Kastelic again, solid effort all around by that line with Koepke and Johnson, they were real solid cycling all night.
Kuntar mucking it up and causing issues after every whistle, nice sandpaper to have.
Geekie looked alright at times, was running around a bit at times, good energy but maybe not directed well.
Didn’t like the effort from Farinacci. I was trying to focus in on him, seems to not have a very flashy game, a few alright moments cycling/moving puck but in the D zone I thought he struggled a bit following play and winning battles.
Duran had a nice motor, looks like he would benefit from more time in providence.
Harrison-loved the goal, I hope he gets some confidence in Providence this year. I forget he is only 21, needs seasoning but good frame and hope he finds that consistency with offense in the AHL.
McLaughlin I don’t see it with this guy. Occasionally he will make a solid smart pass or play but I don’t see him excelling in any areas. Bland player, not sure what to expect from him in providence this year.
I remember liking Callahans simple sound D last preseason but this game he really struggled. Specifically handling the puck, retrievals, winning battles, clearing crease/not letting 2nd/3rd chance opportunities-all issues for Callahan and Mitchell tonight.
Mitchell can look ok moving the puck up ice but I don’t think he has a good head for the game. Some of his pinches aren’t good and his offensive instincts don’t make up for his lack of defending abilities. Not good defending in his own zone, not good at winning board battles or clearing the crease. I see a solid offensive d in the AHL.
Wotherspoon looked very solid and by the third period he was actually looking most composed out of any D tonight.
Bavaro nice shot leading to goal, looked steady at times and lost at times, to be expected given his lack of pro experience. See how he does with a full year in providence.
Sweezey and Wotherspoon seem like the best options for depth/emergency tweener D.
