ADAM LARSSON. 7. Turned in a tremendous defensive effort, including 2 big shot blocks late with the Leaf’s net empty. A smart 2nd Period clear was just 1 of a half-dozen sharp plays he made with either his stick or his body. +1 with 5 blocks in a rock-solid 19:50. If Larsson can deliver this kind of effort consistently, what a boon it would be for this club in its own end.
SLATER KOEKKOEK. 7. This is fast looking like a terrific pickup. Koekkoek and Larsson formed a pretty effective shut-down pairing, allowing Barrie and Russell to see some softer minutes (in which they thrived). Koekkoek had 2 shots, a hit and 2 blocks against a lot of tough comp. A number of cycle busters and a couple clears at important times. Looking good.
KYLE TURRIS. 4. Nothing doing with the puck (0 points, 0 shots and weak shot shares). Turris did turn in an intelligent defensive effort. The most notable of those was an essential faceoff win in his own zone to relieve the pressure after he and his mates had been pinned deep. But as a 3C, they need more from him.
JOAKIM NYGARD. 4. Worked hard enough but came out on the short end of scoring chances by a 2-to-1 margin while he was on the ice. And committed a 1st Period turnover. Could be a candidate to be replaced on Friday.
JESSE PULJUJARVI. 6. Has a solid game in a lot of little but important ways. Good net front presence on the 3rd Period Power Play and was rewarded with an assist after a pass deflected off his skate. An extra effort diving play helped Ethan Bear clear the zone after pressure in the 2nd. Another good clear of the D-zone in the 3rd. Then finished his night with a solid body check on Marner.
Source: – Edmonton Journal
