NHL Updates: Steeves Tears up AHL, Janmark Promotion, Gauthier Update, Dach Resurges (TOR, EDM, PHI, MTL)
Steeves Tearing up the AHL
Remember the name Alex Steeves (at least if you're a Leafs fan). After turning up to training camp in impressive shape, the underrated forward turned heads throughout the preseason. Although he will eventually be sent down to the minors, Steeves has yet to take his foot off the gas pedal.
Steeves has by far been the most impressive prospect playing for the Toronto Marlies this season. The American forward is currently third on his team in points and second in assists. The youngster has been all over the puck within the offensive zone, recording at least two shots on goal in 92% of the games he's played.
Although AHL lines are not always consistent (due to frequent promotion and demotion from the AHL),Steeves is often seen playing within the top six, alongside Adam Gaudette and Joseph Blandisi.
The Toronto Marlies are one of the hottest teams in the American Hockey League, and Steeves is a key player in their success. Toronto's farm team has a fantastic 9-2-1 record and currently leads the North Division.
Edmonton Promotes Janmark to First-Line
Yes, you heard it: Connor McDavid has a new linemate. The Oilers' representatives have announced that the team has elevated Mattias Janmark to the first line while demoting Jesse Puljujarvi to the third line. The Oilers are set to play against the Golden Knights tomorrow.
Janmark was previously signed to a one-year contract with an AAV of $1.25 million during the offseason. The 29-year-old has suited up in over 423 games in the National Hockey League since the 2015-16 season.
So far this season, Janmark has suited up for three games with the Oilers, playing a third-line role. Janmark has yet to score a goal in an Edmonton uniform, recording just one assist in three games.
Previously, Janmark was placed on waivers and sent to the American Hockey League after clearing. Recently, the Oilers called up the winger after Evander Kane was placed on injured reserve. The Swedish forward has two goals and two assists in three games in Bakersfield.
Cutter Gauthier off to a Impressive Start with BC
It is not often within the NCAA system that a freshman starts his NCAA career with a hot start. But with the Flyers' top prospect, Cutter Gauthier, the case is different. The recent fifth-overall selection during the past draft has put up impressive offensive showings so far this season.
Gauthier has been the most commanding player on the Boston College roster. The American forward is currently tied for the lead in points on his team with nine. Furthermore, Gauthier is tied for fifth in goals and seventh in points percentage in the entire league.
Gauthier is a 6-foot-2, 201-pound forward with elite potential. The Flyers' pick is known to be a power forward that takes the puck to the net. That is exactly what the winger has been doing throughout the NCAA season.
Boston College currently sits in the middle of the league with a 4-3-1 record.
Kirby Dach Resurges with the Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens took a gamble this past offseason after they traded away the 13th overall selection along with a third-round pick to the Chicago Blackhawks. In return, the Habs received struggling forward Kirby Dach.
Dach was a former third overall pick during the 2019 NHL Draft who immediately took the jump to the professional level. Dach, who put up a reasonable rookie season with 23 points, has since been able to put up a better season with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Since the trade, Dach looks to have transitioned his game to another level. Dach is a massive forward who likes to play with skill in addition to his size. He is currently listed on the Habs' first line alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield. So far this season, the Canadiens have four goals and 11 assists in 17 games played.