1. v. Winnipeg Jets
The puck is bouncing just before the blueline as Nazem Kadri closes in. He releases that Josh Leivo has the better opportunity to pick it up and carry it in.
So, he skates into position and receives a pass from Leivo. The problem is that the puck is a tad behind Kadri, limiting the time he has to make a move.
He waits for the puck to get closer to Connor Hellebuyck. Notice that he could have touched it and gained control earlier but, opted to wait it out. This allows him to pull a little head fake out of his back pocket, making the goalie move first.
All he does it pull it forward on the forehand to lift it over Hellebuyck’s pad on the backhand. The simplicity behind this gorgeous goal can be described in just one word.
Finesse.
Bonus
Not the typical bonus I include at the end of one of these articles. But, I’m making my way from not loving Kadri to being a big fan of his. I thought this would help prove my point that he’s come a long way in his development under Babcock.
Nazem Kadri, the veteran is showing Leivo, the rookie some stuff on the whiteboard. Now, this is leadership. However, we don’t know the context behind this short video. Maybe Leivo asked for help with something. Kadri could just be doing an excellent job at telling his linemate what to do. We don’t know.
But, what I see is Nazem Kadri helping Leivo with his game. Even if it’s just a quick note. He’s doing a good job and is worth every penny from the contract he signed in the offseason.