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Ramblings: Updates on Point, Thompson, Thompson, Letang, and Eriksson Ek; Makar Continues Hot Start; Market Share Changes for Shots – November 19
Makar Debuts with Career-High 5 Points; Makar Continues Hot Start
Cale Makar was one of the most important players for the Colorado Avalanche last season, and he's picked up right where he left off this year. In the Avs' 6-3 win over the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday, Makar had a career-high five points (1 goal, 4 assists). It was the third time in the last four games that Makar has had at least three points. He now leads all NHL defensemen in scoring this season with 16 points (4 goals, 12 assists) in 12 games.
Makar's Stats and Awards
Makar has been one of the most productive defensemen in the NHL since he entered the league in 2019. In three seasons, he has 108 points (27 goals, 81 assists) in 134 games. He was named the Calder Trophy winner as the NHL's top rookie in 2020 and was a First Team All-Star last season. Makar is also a member of the Canadian national team and helped them win the gold medal at the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Thompson Placed on IR; Eriksson Ek Injured for Wild
Nazem Kadri has not played since October 22 due to a right thumb injury. He was placed on injured reserve on Sunday and is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. Kadri has 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) in 11 games this season; his absence is a big loss for the Avalanche.
Meanwhile, Eriksson Ek left the Wild's game against the New York Rangers on Sunday with an upper-body injury. The extent of his injury is not yet known, but he is considered day-to-day. Eriksson Ek has 10 points (5 goals, 5 assists) in 15 games this season.
Shots Market Share Changes
The NHL tracks the percentage of shots that each team takes on goal each game. This stat can be used to measure a team's puck possession and offensive zone control. Over the last few weeks, there have been some significant changes in the market share of shots.
The Oilers have seen the biggest increase in their shot share, jumping from 47.5% in October to 52.3% in November. This is due in part to the addition of Evander Kane, who has been one of the most dangerous players in the NHL since joining the Oilers.
The Maple Leafs have also seen a significant increase in their shot share, rising from 48.2% in October to 50.6% in November. This is due in part to the strong play of Auston Matthews, who leads the NHL in goals with 16.
The Jets have seen the biggest decrease in their shot share, falling from 53.3% in October to 48.7% in November. This is due in part to the absence of Mark Scheifele, who has been out with an injury since the end of October.