I wonder if playing super well but not getting rewarded early on in the season broke their psyche slightly?
Feels like they have not been as dominate against weaker opposition
The line I have noticed the most over the last 5 or so games is Skinner - Lazar - Sheahan. The line I have generally noticed the least is Eichel's. He has been decent on the power play but seems to spend most of his 5 on 5 shifts trapped in the defensive zone
Why?
This is the best team he has been part of. Why tank your chance to make the playoffs? His alleged unhappiness is with the Sabres not making the playoffs. Why would he not want to make the playoffs for another year?
I wouldn't mind trading for Bennet. He has a good energy and plays well in the playoffs. Can't imagine he would cost too much either.
However, he has a habit of taking penalties, usually at the wrong time
Maybe Dahlin lights them up at practice? It certainly isn't unusual to use offensive D in a shootout. Look who won the game over us in the Washington shootout
There is no denying goaltending fails the eye-test as well as the stats test.
Both have consistently let in 1-2 very soft goals a game and often fail to make that big save when you need it.
Two thoughts:
1) Not enough has been said this season about our ability to win puck battles in the corners - especially in the offensive zone.Its almost exemplary at points.
2) Their goalie looks slightly rattled - making dubious plays and taking that half second to think