Sebastian Aho and Nino Niederreiter
Despite having only three points a piece, Sebastian Aho (2 g 1 a) and Nino Niederreiter (0 g 3 a) have actually played quite well. When they’re on the ice, they are generating high quality scoring chances. Aho has a CF% of 61.9% and Niederreiter has CF% of 63.3%. Furthermore, 61.0% of Aho’s shots make it on net, and 63.6% of Nino’s make it on net.
The opportunities are there, clearly. I think that in order to beat the Ducks, these two have to connect at least once tomorrow night. They need it for themselves and the team as a whole.
Aho and Nino can likely rationalize that they are contributing, but it’s not the same as seeing the puck go in the net. They’ve both been visibly frustrated, but the tides are bound to change.
A performance from Aho and Nino would be reassurance for the rest of the squad, too. As great as it is that the Carolina Hurricanes are getting depth scoring and defensive contributions, for everyone’s peace of mind, the stars need to tuck one tonight.