By Bryan Reynolds -
However, play he will, as the Wild announced and Russo has reported. So, we do our due diligence, and introduce one of the top prospects in the Wild system as he makes his NHL debut. Make the jump, and let's find out about Marco Scandella.
This is not to say that he has their level of talent. That has yet to be seen. This is only commentary on his style of play. In a recent email, I asked the one and only Ms. Conduct for her take:
If he is in a situation to take a shot, he will. Burns. Doesn't forsake his job as a defender to follow those instincts. Schultz. Less "wild" (nice pun by the way) than Burns. Schultz. Just couldn't be more impressed with him. Burns.
At the beginning of the season, The Third Intermission (report by Ms. C) had him as the following:
"He's a shutdown defenseman, but can put up a few points."
Hybrid.
Speaking of that hit, let's hope we don't see this again:
Looking over the 2008 draft, there aren't too many names jumping out at me for who was drafted after him. Could this be a rare win for HWSRN? Let's not get ahead ahead of ourselves, but moving from juniors to NHL in two years is pretty good for a defenseman. Thirty one points in his final junior season, and eight thus far for the Aeros in 14 games is not too bad. I have a feeling his role with the Wild is going to be more focused on the defensive side of the game. At least for now.
He can hold his own in a fight as you can see below:
It all comes down to what message you want to send. Do you send the message to Falk? Play 100% every game, because you can be sent down? Or is it to Barker? We don't care how much you are making or what we gave up for you, you'll play better, or we'll find some one who will. Perhaps to Stoner? You have had a couple decent games, but your fancy one way deal won't save you if you are going to play like this?
One way or another, Wild fans will get their first look at Scandella tonight. How many minutes he plays, and what type of impact he makes will determine what kind of message he sends, if any at all.
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