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Pacific Division breakout picks for 2018-19

September 20, 2018, 11:46 AM ET [6 Comments]
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Todd Cordell

My initial choice (Ondrej Kase) produced at a 47 point pace last season so I'll go with someone a little less obvious in Vinnie Hinostroza.

He appeared in 50 games with Chicago last season and posted a respectable 25 points, 20 of which came at 5v5. He averaged 1.98 points and 15.77 shot attempts per 60 during that game state. Both of those numbers were 1st line caliber.

He should get more playing time on an Arizona team that ranked 30th in goals last season and I expect him to make the most of it.

Peter Tessier

Based on what I have heard so far out of Edmonton I think Puljujarvi is the guy who breaks free of rookie season doldrums and steps up this year.

While he played 65 games for the Oilers last season he certainly did not light the world on fire with his game. The risk of a sophomore slump seems slim then. The issue for him will be the rest of the team taking a step too. If they do I can see Puljujarvi taking a big jump particularly with the talent around him if he gets a chance higher up the lines.

The caveat to all this is am I getting hit by the Edmonton hype machine around him thus far?

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