The San Jose Sharks will be getting a breakout game from William Eklund in the near future.
Despite the semi-slow offensive start for the Swedish forward, with six points in 18 games, his play suggests that he is starting to create more chances.
According to this hockey stat card of last night's game against the Vancouver Canucks, the best part of Eklund's game was his production. Meaning his individual play was leading to chances that should generate production. While he didn't get any points, he had a goal taken away and missed a breakaway.
His zone entry on this play shows his confidence with the puck is growing. Although it didn't count, Eklund went to the front of the net, aka the dirty area, to score the goal.
Eklund made an excellent play on the penalty kill and had Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko beaten dead to rights.
Since becoming Tomas Hertl's winger, there has been an uptick in play. Sharks coach David Quinn knows that Hertl can lift the play of his wingers.
"He's big. He's strong. He protects the puck, has great vision, and can make a pass," Quinn said about Hertl on Nov. 18. "He's got a great understanding of the game. Whoever is on his wing is usually more productive. All of that is what makes him, I think, an elite center in the league."
With Hertl playing at the top of his game, it will only benefit Eklund. Chances are coming for the former first-round pick, and eventually, he will start capitalizing.
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The Hockey News