1. Nazem Kadri 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.
Toronto Maple Leafs Bonus
Bonus round. This one was harder to find something worth putting on here. I would have loved to find a clip where all three contributed but, I guess 2/3 will have to do.
van Riemsdyk’s skating along the left wall with the puck heads up the entire time. He’s waiting for a clear enough lane to make his desired pass.
His patience pays off when the pass connects and Bozak gets just enough to sneak it past the goalie. These two connect for a lot of good plays. Most of the time, it’s Marner who plays a prominent role in beautiful plays. Cue the Magic Marner talk.