Steven Stamkos Says Duclair Gave Lightning A Spark
Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos couldn't hold back the impact that former San Jose Sharks forward Anthony Duclair has brought.
Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports - Steven Stamkos Says Duclair Gave Lightning A SparkTampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos couldn't hold back the impact that former San Jose Sharks forward Anthony Duclair has brought.
"He's been a spark for us," Stamkos said today. "Just the skill set that he brings and the speed, it's been a really big addition to our top-six. It just opens up a lot of space by utilizing that speed, and that's when you see the skill set take over."
Duclair has three goals and two assists in four games with the Bolts. He started on a line with Stamkos and Anthony Cirelli but has moved to the top line with Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov.
Stamkos also had high praise for Duclair's character, something the Sharks got familiar with quickly.
"Just a great guy in the room, too. That's a big piece that anytime our management has brought in players over the years, whether it's free agency or deadline, they're obviously very good players, but they fit the mold of coming into this dressing room and adding something with their character, and he's done that as well," he said.
Duclair was often a go-to guy for support in the Sharks locker room. He would often refer to William Eklund, Fabian Zetterlund, and Thomas Bordeleau as his sons.
Duclair's production rose after the All-Star break. He is up to 19 goals this season. Stamkos feels that the change of scenery from bottom dweller to playoff contender contributed to his continued success.
"We all know that the [postseason is the] most fun hockey that you're gonna play," Stamkos explained. "That's what we strive for each and every year, and I think they saw that too. [Duclair and Matt Dumba are] bringing that excitement, and like I said, it's been a great fit."
Stamkos said that both Dumba and Duclair had some friends on the team before the trade and that both players were friends beforehand. That has made both players' transitions smoother due to familiarity with personalities and comfort in a different location.
Duclair returns to a place where he is well-loved despite playing 56 games in Teal.
Make sure you bookmark THN's San Jose Sharks site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
- Follow Max on Twitter: @Real_Max_Miller
