from Gemma Karstens-Smith of the CP at CBC,
Winnipeg Jets coach Paul Maurice conceded that his squad has little chance of keeping McDavid off the scoresheet when they face the Oilers in the first round of the playoffs, starting Wednesday.
"He's that good," Maurice said. "You're not stopping this guy completely. If you just do it right, if you just play the right way against Connor McDavid, he's still putting up points against you. He's that level of talent. You just can't help him. He's going to get them on his own. You just can't help him do it."
Long touted as one of the NHL's top talents, the 24-year-old Oilers captain ascended to new heights this year, tallying 100 points in 53 games. Only seven players in NHL history have reached the mark faster.
By the end of the regular season, he led the league in scoring with 105 points (33 goals, 72 assists) in 56 games. His sometimes-linemate Leon Draisaitl was second with 84....
"He really stepped up his game and it was impressive to watch," said Winnipeg centre Mark Scheifele. "I'm a big fan of his. He's a fantastic hockey player and he's the best player in our game right now."
Maurice has watched the likes of Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr come through the league and is hesitant to draw comparisons.
But he's certainly proved himself to be a special talent, the Jets coach said.
"He's just unique," Maurice said. "This guy's different than all other players and that uniqueness, he's part of that group of players that are the greatest of all time."
Create an Account
In order to leave a comment, please create an account.