Cam Atkinson has been added to the NHL All-Star game, replacing the injured Evgeni Malkin.
It's official: @CamAtkinson13 is an All-Star ★️
— ColumbusBlueJackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) January 26, 2017
He's the fourth #CBJ headed to LA: https://t.co/OXsr5nuiKq pic.twitter.com/77hvo4ZpQf
Atkinson joins Sergei Bobrovsky, Seth Jones and John Tortorella, giving the Jackets four representatives at the game. Atkinson’s inclusion in the game is long overdue. He's been the best offensive player on one of the best offensive teams this season. I made the case to include Brandon Saad in the All-Star game, but there is no denying what Atkinson has done.
Another look at Atkinson’s offensive prowess. (Grain of salt for CA, his line this year giving up lots of attempts as a whole) pic.twitter.com/Scw2FGBnRK
— Alison (@AlisonL) January 26, 2017
His possession stats are not where you want them to be but he’s otherworldly as an offensive player. He's tied for second in the NHL with 24 goals and tied for 8th with 46 points. Atkinson has 19 power play points which is tied for fourth in the league.
The 27 year old winger will be participating in his first NHL All-Star game. He was an AHL All-Star back in the 2011-12 season.
You can follow me on Twitter @PaulBerthelot