November 17, 2014

The Scheifele injury, Kaberle’s release, Grosenick’s potential, Gormley’s first NHL goal, why Schenn will heat up and more …

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Well that certainly makes things in San Jose interesting. Prospect Troy Grosenick, in his NHL debut, posted a 45-save shutout. He’ll get another start or perhaps two, before Alex Stalock returns. And that’s more than enough time to make a lasting impression on team brass. If he pulls a Martin Jones, it certainly puts the onus on Antti Niemi to step up his game. Niemi’s contract is up this summer and from what we’ve seen of the two guys behind him – they’re better. Granted, small sample size. Just stating the facts. In limited games (or in Grosenick’s case, “game”), the No.2 and No.3 goalies have been better.

Check out the reaction of Grosenick’s father after the game here.

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Niklas Backstrom saw things fall apart in the third when a 3-0 lead turned into a tie game within five minutes. So he got the hook and Darcy Kuemper stopped three shots for the win. Three shots. And a win. But he’ll take it and that gives him back-to-back wins and the confidence that comes with that. He’ll need it, because Josh Harding is back skating and I get the sense that we’ll see Harding in a game before the end of November. At this point, I would consider grabbing and stashing Harding on the bench, because a week from now may be too late.

Both Zach Parise and Marco Scandella were back in action for the Wild. Here were the line combos with Parise back:

 

22.44%	EV	9 KOIVU,MIKKO – 11 PARISE,ZACH – 29 POMINVILLE,JASON
12.99%	EV	56 HAULA,ERIK – 26 VANEK,THOMAS – 16 ZUCKER,JASON
12.2%	EV	3 COYLE,CHARLIE – 64 GRANLUND,MIKAEL – 22 NIEDERREITER,NINO

 

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I enjoyed this goal by El Nino, and you will too:

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Mark Scheifele left Sunday’s game with a knee injury. Here is the clip. He did skate off on his own, which is promising: