Without a doubt, Kirby Dach is having his best moments since his injury last year.
He put his name on the scoresheet more often in the last few games in addition to having scored the winning goal against the Avalanche in a shootout.
But beyond the numbers, it is his game in general which is completely transformed. He skates with greater ease and we feel that he is less hesitant to try to make plays with the puck.
He resists contact well in addition to giving severe checks in return. He is rewarded with goals, some like yesterday’s luckier one, but he deserves them.
He works hard and makes his wingers better. He had a good test in the absence of Patrik Laine and he responded well without a regular winger. Whether with Jake Evans, Michael Pezzetta or Joel Armia, Dach finds a way to make the trio work and even succeeds in making Alex Newhook more effective in the offensive zone.
Is he finally the second center long awaited by CH? It may be a little early to draw such big conclusions, but he is on the right track.
One thing is certain, if the CH wants to stay in the mix between now and April, they will need Kirby Dach at the top of his form.
Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield are having an excellent season, but cannot carry the entire CH attack on their shoulders. Evans’ trio is producing unexpectedly, but will eventually slow down.
Dach must take his chance and lead the second line like he does now. He must force opponents to divide their best resources between his line and Suzuki’s line. If he succeeds, CH could surprise in this second half of the season and who knows, sneak into the playoffs.
In burst
– New episode available.
– Everything is fine!
– Things aren’t getting any better in New York.
Canada
