In this edition of the hotstove, we share breakout picks for players within the Pacific Division.
Todd Cordell
Christian Dvorak.
He put up a respectable 33 points (15 goals, 18 assists) in 77 games as a rookie despite playing for a horrible Arizona team that couldn't score.
There will be a huge injection of skill into the lineup this season with the likes of Derek Stepan, Dylan Strome, and Clayton Keller joining the fold. As a result, Dvorak should have better linemates at both even-strength and on the power play.
With a better supporting cast and Dvorak's continued development, he should be able to take another step forward this season and produce at a good clip.
Peter Tessier With the way the Pacific division is developing, there are many options to consider in terms of breakout players. The one I am most curious about is Ryan Strome. The start to his NHL career has been less than stellar and far below expectations and does the proverbial 'fresh start' in Edmonton with two players like McDavid and Draisaitl leading the way help?
The thing about Strome is his shooting percentage at even strength seems to go up and down and I'd be curious as to why. He also takes far more penalties than he draws and is that part of being in a situation that didn't work for him? His short history is inconsistent and with a team on the rise and a coach like Todd McLellan to guide him Strome could be a strong candidate to break out of past restraints.
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