As a Jets fan I agree with your analysis. Would have been interesting to see what would have happened had Marchessault's shot gone bar down rather than bar out in the first and how that would have effected the game.
Also, not having Rielly Smith in this one clearly hurt. I haven't seen many Vegas games but the few I've seen he clearly plays a larger part for your team than what his stats may suggest or what people give him credit for. Would you agree?
All in all defensive breakdowns were the difference as you say. Guess we'll see what happens next time...
- casual_observer
You would be correct. Reilly Smith is the unsung (nationally) hero of the top line in Vegas. His smarts and puck possession drive that line and open up the ice for Karlsson and Marchessault. It's no surprise that aside from tonight against Pittsburgh, the top line has been absent.
Prior to tonight, Marchessault had a goal and an assist in 10 games and Karlsson went 8 games without a goal. He is a big piece of the team, on the ice and in the room. He was taking individual skating drills after practice today, but looks shaky. He will need the all-star break. I'm curious to see what they do when everyone (Smith, Carrier) is available.