31 Young or Less Experienced Players Who Could Have a Strong Second Half This Season

I couldn't come up with a name for Tampa, and apologize for that. Let me know your picks.
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[@GeoGolfer]

Shannon, as a Habs fan, the Slafkovsky offer sheet comment was below the belt…..still made me laugh tho 😂😂😂

[@lavk2777]

I graduated high school with Laferriere. Super nice kid and hard working from what I remember. Awesome seeing him working with the Kings!

[@andygluehere8266]

Valtteri Puustinen will get more and more time, he is working his way up.

[@neithermanc1]

that goal against the isles was a rocket! hope there are more where that came from!

[@robotfox1987]

He looks so good so far

[@wild_insomnia]

if our best young player is Puustunen,then we are screwed asf

[@closethockeyfan5284]

Absolutely a miracle that he's gotten even 10 games under this coach and hockey ops

[@The_Room_2_Doggys_Revenge]

As an Habs fan, I think if Slaf can keep playing the way he did lately, even if his production doesn't increase, he's at least gonna build up his confidence and maybe next season, he really steps it up

[@honeyb15]

beniers started out the year pretty rough (granted pretty much everyone on the kraken did) but he's looking much, much better in the past couple weeks, particularly since tatar got put on his line after he was traded. they seem to have good chemistry and playstyles that compliment each other, i think there's a pretty good chance his production picks up significantly in the 2nd half of the season

[@modernhockeycards]

Great synopsis. Thank you.

[@jesel72]

Eyssimont did play for San Jose and played well actually! That’s how we were able to trade him to Tampa

[@Dorian803]

He was really solid. I was mad that the Jets let him go

[@Buffalosabskis]

Tage Thompson. He has been through so much over the years with his wife being ill and then being injured at times this year. I really think he could turn it around. Guys like Quinn are helping. I'm not expecting playoffs, but just some fun games to watch

[@brianjones7660]

Tage was a big overpay. One year allowed to shoot unnoticed from the faceoff dot and we bit on him. 30 goal man at best, not a great skater and a mediocre defender in his own end...Adams Family man all the way.....

[@Buffalosabskis]

@@brianjones7660 When you defend one player you open up another. It's also his reach in front of the net that helps with putting in lose pucks. Last year the whole team was allowed to play like it was 3 on 3 all game with no regard for defense. This year they thought simply constricting that was enough to win more, but scoring 5 or 6 goals a game was the main way this roster wins at all

[@ilai7893]

Philly - Ersson deserves a shout-out after the rough start to the season, he's probably able to hold down the fort if Hart goes down

[@oopopp]

For the Oilers i would say look at Ryan McLeod... he has been LIGHTS OUT since becoming a Winger.

[@nummytacos128]

I absolutely love watching Laferriere play. He plays with the same heart as Lizotte, and is so willing to fight anybody out there to defend his teammates. Great player overall even if he doesn't become a 40+ point producer, he'll still be a solid 3rd/4th liner with an offensive upside.

[@LateCloser]

I thought for the Sabres, you might list the entire team. Most of em qualify. Power is a good choice. He's struggling defensively at times. I think his offensive game has improved from last year. He's less shy about jumping in to the play. Some shifts, he's behind the opponents net for a while. Defensively, he has nights where he looks lost. A little of that is unfortunate situations and spotty goaltending behind him. In my amateur scouting eye, he's responsible for a significant part of it, however. As you stated, he needs time. Like Dahlin did, before him. Experience is required. Especially when you're logging the huge amount of minutes that he is. Can't wait to see what he can do in a couple years.

[@clydeblair9622]

For Detroit I would have said Raymond. Seider plays all his minutes against the oppostion's best. Can't ask for more. He's only 21.

[@neverwild8122]

Video idea: Ranking each captain, not on points but captain quality and making team better. We clearly see Colorado is missing Landeskog.

[@spaceninga2000]

You know landy was colorados 3rd best forward right? Behind Mack and Rant. Of course they’re missing him

[@neverwild8122]

@@spaceninga2000 yes but seems more then just missing him as a player and more as a captain in my view.

[@generalimlerith8356]

You don’t hear a lot about cornonato because Zary basically stole the spotlight Zary is a personable guy everyone loves and a good ole sask boy

[@stanschmenge1965]

Coronato isn’t strong enough to play in the NHL yet. Looks like he’s paddling a kayak when he’s skating without the puck, he’s got stuff to work on before he’s back up imo.

[@sakalaath]

The only way I see him get ice time barring injuries or trades right now, is if he takes a spot on the Zary - Kadri line, and Pospisil or Dube sit out. I don't see him taking a spot on the fourth line due to that not being his role. I also don't think the other lines getting broken up any time soon, It seems like Huberdeau finally has chemistry with Sharangovich. Maybe Dube could flourish on the Zary - Kadri line as well. I want to see Coronato playing in the NHL, but the open spots are limited.

[@Yo_Adrienne]

The Hawks were actually planning to have Lukas Reichel play at 2C, rather than on Bedard's wing. It was expected that Athanasiou and Kurashev would play his wings, but injuries to both prevented that. He would probably benefit from steady line mates, but they've had a revolving door of players, thanks to injuries. I really hope he can get it together, and it looks like he might be on his way to that. Fingers croseed...

[@Darrakkii]

the thing about reichel is, everyone on the hawks is playing w/o steady linemates, some games bedard only gets 16 minutes, everyone on the team is dealing with this stuff, the difference is other players are stepping up where we thought Reichel would

[@FrenchToast_28]

Boldy kaprizov faber Rossi and wallstedt is the future core build good depth around that and the Wild should win a cup imo

[@ethan7350]

As a Tampa fan agreed it's tough to come up with a full-timer name, but I've got some high hopes for our carousel of Syracuse players that have been cycling around. If I had to pick one, Lilleberg has been fantastic so far and I think we're gonna see a lot of him throughout the rest of the year.

[@EmorterCS]

eyss is one player i wish the sharks didnt get rid of he looked so good in teal tbh

[@gabrielrockman]

Lapierre is a good choice for the Capitals, but Protas would have been another good pick. He hasn't been underperforming: he's been playing quite well, and his 15 assists reflect that. But I'm hoping that he improves upon his 3 goals in 33 games so far this season.

[@futureuse7105]

As a Sabres fan Zach benson is top 3 playing on this team right now

[@ADGarvey1]

Puustinen was a call up for the PP. He's not scared to shoot.

[@mdd47]

I don't know if Svechnikov is ever going to be a 40-50 goal scorer. He probably could if he started shooting more, but passing is a huge part of his game too and he's actually a really good playmaker for a power winger.

[@hockey582004]

We know what you're saying most of the time, don't worry about the mistakes. Honestly with how much hockey you talk about I'm surprised it doesn't just sound like "Hi! Hockey hockey hockey hockey hockey, hockey hockey, hockey hockey hockey hockey..." Excellent content as always!

[@michaelandrew8493]

We missed the playoffs by one point and this year we cant even get to even. Sabres break my heart year after year.

[@LGR910]

Vilardi and Iafallo have been Great hope Kupari has a great second half when he gets back from injury!!

[@adamyounis93]

Slaf reminds me exactly of Byfield. People in Montreal compared him to Rantanen. Nope. Byfield.

[@stevesmart170]

As a Blackhawks fan my concern with Reichel is that he winds up in the coach's doghouse for lack of effort. If a kid makes a mistake due to lack of experience but they are bustin' their butt, fine. But a lack of effort earns a ticket out of town. Reichel needs to adopt a first-in, last-out, go-until-you-puke mindset.

[@optimisticasfan]

I thought when Eyssimont was in san jose he was one of our best guys, I remember us fans thinking he’d be a part of the team moving forward before trading him

[@Dillon__Morris]

Beniers has been rough to watch. Little Bambi can’t even stay on his skates

[@yourneighbour2401]

i do agree that the winnipeg sabres will have a strong 2nd half

[@donbuttaccio4464]

You had to say Kent Johnson for Columbus didn't ya - playing the Bruins tonight and he just scored - C'mon man!

[@mayhempsilocybin5118]

Hmm. When I saw this video I came to think about that it would be nice to see a video of new assets/aditionals that did really work.

[@Bowman1999]

Definitely do a video on why Buffalo can't put it together with the talent they have

[@bobanmihajlov338]

They changed their style from high risk high reward to super safe and defensive when their team is more suited to the former. Now they’re trying to transition back but now it’s just a confused team, lacking an identity.

[@EpilepticBob]

Holloway, even though he’s “Underperforming” he’s still a kid. So still tons of time and potential with him. But I have enjoyed watching him, despite his points totals. He looks great on the ice, hard working player for sure

[@isaacwest276]

I want to say the thing that surpised me and Oilers fans the most was Holloway's physicality. With his size it was only a matter of time, but we didn't think it would come in during his rookie season and improve this year. I like that he has a drive to contribute, so when he knows the scoring's not going for him, and if his defense is negligible, he goes out hits somebody, causes a fight and draws a bunch of penalties (though he often finds himself in the box too, which at this point is more charming than annoying).

[@Marixa1979]

For Edmonton, I do hope you're right on Holloway. For a safe bet for a strong second half for a young player on Edmonton I'd pick Bouchard.

[@FalloutUrMum]

I'd like to see more from Necas on the Hurricanes, he was great at the start of the season but has fallen behind

[@OotoriKyouya]

Rough is a very kind word to describe Byram, THG. My theory on why he is playing poorly is because he is afraid of getting hurt. He is no longer being aggressive. Given how he suffered that brutal concussion and a long term injury from last season, the fear of injury is starting to get to him. If he is afraid of getting hurt, he won't last long. I'll leave it at that

[@dktrox]

Surprised about Johnston for Dallas. He was so hot early this year and it has quieted. It will come in the second half.

[@wareqo9768]

I'm surprised you didn't go with Jack Drury for the canes, pretty sure he's equivalent to a rookie

[@rosariocannistraro3561]

Woulda been my pick definitely .

[@bobstrandell3116]

I am a Ducks fan but we have two Zegras and Terry 😢 but both are starting looking great again

[@joestrunk9663]

in CBJ we have a ton of young guys you could have picked from

[@andrewgreen815]

For the Jets I would have selected D-man Dylan Samberg. He is lights out defensively, heavy shot, hardly a point.

[@jasonlewis987]

Will Cuylle should have been the pick for the Rangers. Cuylle already has 7 goals. Won't be shocked if he gets 20 goals during his rookie season this season

[@klompsauce]

Detroit: I think that was the idea with bringing in Chairot and Petry, just hasn’t helped

[@ghi7890]

Our boy Emil Lilleberg deserves more love!

[@Gagegehris]

Going into this as an oilers fan I’m just gonna assume he’s writing McLeod on this list. I’ll edit this comment to see if I’m right later Edit: I was wrong

[@andrejsuchanek]

I dont understand why Kulich isnt playing for the first team of Buffalo, when their season is already bad, why just dont pley the youngs?

[@wild_insomnia]

Wyatt is gonna break through !

[@SylviusTheMad]

Look at players by age reminded me that Connor McDavid is only 26 (he turns 27 this month).

[@VanMichael21]

I strongly believe if Vancouver ever do decide to trade Kuzmenko that would be a big mistake. I surely hope they don't trade him.

[@thomaskeery3039]

isaac howard is who had would have picked amazing WJC performance would love to see a call up

[@slamdunkgator915]

As a fellow bolts fan, I think it's more likely that he could come up next season.

[@livelonggaming1804]

not that he’s playing bad but Hagel surely scores more goals in the second half… he’s ice cold right now

[@thomaskeery3039]

@@slamdunkgator915 ya agreed better than a ? tho lol

[@thomaskeery3039]

@@livelonggaming1804 ya hagel is only 25 i think thats a good one

[@marzix427]

I really thought Hall-Bedard-Reichel should have been the line for the Hawks to start the season. As a fan, I want to see the young guys play together and get chemistry

[@misternewoutlook5437]

Good stashes for those that play fantasy hockey 👀

[@chrisbelos2834]

for the habs i will pick Struble and not Slaf. Mainly because Struble is a rookie (Slaf is not) and he's getting the work done on the D-line. Habs have wayyy too many young defensemens at the moment and Struble is one of them. at one point the top 6 will be decided and he has a shot at it. Struble, Barron, Guhle, Xhekaj are all 22 and Harris is 23. they have the habs future in their hands

[@thefish560]

And they still have reinbacher, mailloux and Hudson in the system 😉

[@wild_insomnia]

When phillie's players will have enough of Tortorella,that house of cards is gonna crumble down.

[@SpoingusDoingus]

Oliver Wahlstrom as no excuse anymore as the Islanders are no longer playing that same shut down style, it’s much more free flowing now and they’re scoring a lot more (also giving up way too much too)

[@wild_insomnia]

Sandin is absolutely unremarkable at WSH,no way Toronto is regretting that decision.

[@joeb2151]

When you say the Flyers are the largest surprise, are you calling them fat? But seriously, I'm cool with Frost there.

[@turnofevents1015]

Ottawa baby

[@the1trueshark]

The thing id say about kakko is that i dont think there is a place for him in the lineup anymore. When he or chytil comes back, it'll be an easy move to knock tyler pitlick down to the ahl, but with brodzinski and vesey playing well and goodrow being a good pk guy, kakko just doesnt fit. Plus the promise shown from adam edstrom in his one game, it wouldnt shock me to see kakko end up with another team or simply be sent to the wolfpack

[@spaceninga2000]

Kakko would have to clear waivers, which he would not

[@wild_insomnia]

Shannon,would you trade Dellandrea to clear some cap space and making call-ups possible ?

[@brianjones7660]

Shannon. Owen Power = Tyler Myers. Prove me wrong.😜

[@zZach___]

Kakko for Henrique this deadline, book it.

[@billybobhobnob101]

I would have used Quinn for Buffalo

[@SauciestElk]

"Or less experienced" Me: Kuzmenko' on this list

[@benjaminh7257]

Poitras did nothing for Canada, what does he do for Boston?

[@otakumusprime7745]

Only a matter of time before Johnston gets his scoring back (maybe even tonight?). Can't wait to see it.

[@ronreinhold8997]

If they only knew how to play in the third period.

[@ronreinhold8997]

Whoops I think I meant Johnson with the jackets.

[@f.n04]

Greig has actually been pretty solid this season, numbers just dont show it

[@Bryguy1986]

Seider is fine, toughest minutes and please no more vets we got Chiarot, Petry, Ghost, Holl and Maatta already.

[@qpThePlagueqp21]

You just had to mention Byram's health......😢

[@BlackMasakari]

wish, you would have picked Adam Rodriquez for the oilers :D Nah, that's probably too much of a wild-card and we don't want to rely on him as an NHL goalie with 0 NHL games played. Or do we ? He might be called up soon, despite good oilers goal-tending RN.

[@ajfazz8773]

Wahlstrom could very well be traded and I can see the trade looking good for the Islanders this year and then in 2 years from now we are gonna look like the biggest BOZOS for that trade

[@SNW8191]

I'm all about Nemo. I strongly believe he needs to just keep swimming.

[@Daddyscarpetrepairs]

Neighbors not Kyrou, that is all.

[@D0VES0AP]

i need Lukas Reichel to bounce back i bought a jersey last season😂

[@wild_insomnia]

Kakko needs a change of scenery.No way he's that bad.

[@fore_bears]

Holmstrom > Wahlstrom for NYI

[@AlexPittiStockMan]

do seamus casey

[@GizmoBeach]

Kakko has serious health issues and thanks to repeated injuries and being part of a veteran-laden team, he can’t get going (40 pts last year has been his best showing) He needs to be dealt to a different situation it seems. NYR can’t seem to find a useful purpose for him.

[@Digital_PeterGriffin]

Yeah but Kakko played against men

[@DanielNYR]

Kaapo Kakko

[@PS-vc2yz]

Oliver Eric(man) Wahlstrom is getting traded lol

[@mahockey3]

Holloway is too much of an injury magnet. I don't think he's gonna have much of a career. Injured while developing in the AHL. Injured twice as an Oiler in under 100 games. Oof.

[@TylerMorganShow]

Rosi

[@RobDucharme]

I clicked on this mostly to see which team didn't have a good young player on the upswing... (note the title of this video).

[@NobuhikuObayashi]

❤

[@CV-ej5cu]

I wish bro wasn’t hard himself when he’s slips up or misspeaks, we’re only human my man we sometimes make mistakes! All your time and knowledge you put into your videos show no matter what! Appreciate every vid man!

[@brettrossi89]

Now I think your just making up stuff.

[@matthewj9595]

Kakko?! i was expecting Cuylle or even Schneider

[@neverwild8122]

But them have played quite well for what is expecting of them.

[@the_anton_kabanov]

NO SOUND in this video for me?

[@jacobthompson1859]

why is the video quality so low??

[@BrianTheLeafsGuy]

The video is in 1080p. If you clicked on the video right as it was uploaded, then it was probably still in low def. KZbin uploads the low def version as the high def one is still uploading. You were just too quick on clicking on the video :). In that case, wait 5 minutes and the high def will usually be up by then! Much love :)

[@klompsauce]

Oh!

[@veerpartapsohal7557]

Typo in the title it says 31

[@fatpiggz]

Dude did you even watch the video?

[@mikkelfolting554]

Tampa's not included

[@rowanreese5692]

You didn't even skip to the end to check. Just assumed it was wrong and decided to comment.

[@veerpartapsohal7557]

@@fatpiggz I watched the first little bit he said 32 so I thought I was being helpful, my apologies

[@veerpartapsohal7557]

@@mikkelfolting554 I didn’t see that thanks for letting me know