5. Jaccob Slavin still deserves more credit
The Canes have a very special player on their blue line in Jaccob Slavin. Against the Leafs, Slavin had another huge test against Auston Matthews. Slavin has now faced talents like Matthews, Connor McDavid, Tyler Seguin, Artemi Panarin, Patrik Laine, and Johnny Gaudreau.
It has been the responsibility of Slavin and Brett Pesce to shut down opposing first liners before they’re able to get to the net. Slavin is among the best in the NHL at shutting down some of the best players in the league.
Matthews did get on the board once against the Canes, but he’s almost averaging one goal per game. Holding him to one goal was actually a pretty good accomplishment. While few teams can hold Matthews off the score sheet completely, the Canes still got it done.
Carolina really has a defenseman with a shot at winning the Norris Trophy. He’s already got four points through eight games. That’s on pace to eclipse his career-mark of 34 points set last season.