Not to mention, Edmonton’s top-six players see an increase in their 5v5 production with Puljujarvi on-ice, as opposed to without. Puljujarvi is Edmonton’s best 5v5 defensive forwardThere has certainly been debate amongst media and fans alike regarding Puljujarvi’s defensive value. Some say that Puljujarvi cannot be a proficient defensive player because he doesn’t penalty-kill, but this is a flawed argument. Just because a player kills penalties, it doesn’t mean they’re a great 5v5 defensive player and vice versa. Not to mention, Edmonton’s top-six isn’t anything spectacular defensively, and a player like Puljujarvi will help in that regard.

Source: The Nation September 17, 2022 18:42 UTC