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Analyst reveals what Alex Newhook's early numbers may be hinting about his ceiling
Alex Newhook is having a very interesting start to the season with the Montreal Canadiens, and it truly changes something in the way the team attacks.
But we have to look at how all of this came together before drawing conclusions that are too big.
Each game reveals a player who skates with ease, makes quick decisions, and plays with a calmness we didn't see as often last year.
And when you look back a bit at his path, you realize that what he's showing today is not a surprise for those who have followed his development for a long time.
On Saturday night, for example, he scored a goal that perfectly sums up what he's bringing right now.
Alex Newhook and the Montreal Canadiens Playing With Full Confidence
On the sequence, Newhook carried the puck himself, destabilized the defense with a simple feint, then released a precise shot while in motion.
It's exactly the kind of play that reminds us of what Anthony Martineau explained on Tony Marinaro's podcast.
On the show, he said:
"Two years ago in Montreal, Alex Newhook was 22 years old and he finished with 33 points in 50 games, which comes out to about 50 points over 82 games. He's capable of producing. He has all the tools: the speed, the hands, and that wrist shot while skating - it's an art, and Newhook has mastered it."
- Anthony Martineau
- Anthony Martineau
Martineau also added:
"At 24 years old, am I surprised to see him producing? No. He's also not a finished product. I remind you that he was a first-round pick drafted for his offensive talent." - Martineau
With 12 points in 15 games, he's on pace for 66 points.
Last season, he collected 26 points in 82 games.
The difference is enormous, and it shows as much in the numbers as in the way he plays.
He plays freely.
He plays like someone who knows what he's worth.
Personally, I think this is exactly the player we were expecting since his arrival.
And if this pace continues, the Canadiens will be able to rely on two real dangerous lines every night, which changes everything in the offensive dynamic.
I believe this confidence can continue to grow.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 11 | 702 ANSWERS Analyst reveals what Alex Newhook's early numbers may be hinting about his ceiling Do you think Alex Newhook will reach 50 points this season? | ||
| Yes | 533 | 75.9 % |
| No | 169 | 24.1 % |
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