By Bryan Reynolds -
Year two of the Martin Havlat experiment was better. He missed just four games, tied for the team lead in points scored, and was productive. Most of the time. The constant line shuffling did not work for Havlat, nor did the early season benching that set off his agent. The call out of the team led to increased TOI, and increased production.
Havlat's talent is as amazing as it is frustrating. When he is on, he's on, and when he's not... he's just not. The effort on the defensive side could be better, but he more than makes up for it with his scoring. All in all, he's the closet thing the Wild have to a consistent threat, and that give him a boost.
What did the HW staff have to say? You know what to do.
GRADES
Nathan- GRADE: A-. Forced to shuffle linemates, carry the brunt of the offensive load, never paired with another true goalscorer which would suit his style, Havlat still was the single best player on the roster night in and night out. An all-star (more deserving than Brent Burns), he still had periods where he would let up a bit, but with his talent he's able to make up for it. As for the periodic lack of effort and revolving door of linemates and Havlat's seemingly petulant response, I'm guessing it was a personal issue with Richards, as that rumor has been burning since they joined the team. With Richards being jettisoned will Havlat be let off the leash? Let's hope so. Get Guillaume Latendresse healthy or give him a season with Pierre-Marc Bouchard and we're looking at an 85 point season.
Cumulative GPA: 3.2 B
Final Thought
Sorry, it's still funny.
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