Some notes from watching the scrimmage:
- Donksoi was definitely a standout. Wasn't really tracking how good he was defensively but great offensive skills. Seemed to always be in the middle of the action.
- Roy. Moved the puck well. Shifty. Great in offensive zone. Generated several good chances. Straight line speed is slow though and defensive coverage was poor. Potential is there though but at least a year or two away. Very likely could be a Boyle 2.0.
- Goldobin. Didn't have tons of opportunities. When he has the puck, he is great. Lots of confidence, good passing and stick handling. Defensively he was ok. Seemed improved. But what concerns me is his ineffectiveness offensively without puck. Never seemed to be going to right spot. Always looked lost. Never went to front of net or in corners. Hopefully something he can learn over time. But I have serious doubts that he could be a regular NHL'er.
- Marleau. Nice breakaway goal. Seems to have his speed back.
- Hertl. Was ok. Nothing special. Appears thinner though. Lost some weight.
- Nieto. Looks like he put on some muscle. Had a good jump going and was playing pretty aggressively. Not afraid to go to the net and scoring areas. Really think he is going to have a much better year this season.
- Thornton, Pavelski, Couture. All very solid as expected.
- Timo looked ok. Nothing special. But didn't look out of place.