Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Adam Engstrom is lighting up the American Hockey League, and his dominance with the Laval Rocket is forcing Kent Hughes into some serious reflection.
Let’s tell it like it is: the Swedish defenseman is quite literally carrying the farm team’s offense on his shoulders right now.
Against the Cleveland Monsters, the left-shot blueliner picked up two assists to extend his strong run of play.
The Swede now has 10 points over his last seven games, including four goals and six assists.
“2 assists for Adam Engstrom this afternoon against the Monsters.
That makes seven straight games with at least one point for him.
4 goals, 6 assists — 10 points in his last 7 games.
The Swede is dominant in this league.”
– Vincent Demuy
We’re talking about total dominance here, with solid execution and quick puck movement that’s starting to turn heads at the Bell Centre.
Adam Engstrom’s AHL dominance is forcing a difficult decision for the Canadiens’ blue line
While Engstrom is shining, the situation is becoming increasingly precarious for Arber Xhekaj in Montreal.
There’s no question the Sheriff’s physical style is unique, but Engstrom’s pure talent is becoming harder and harder to ignore.
If the young defenseman keeps torching the league like this, management won’t have much choice but to make room for him.
That’s the harsh reality of professional hockey, where talent eventually pushes aside those who may be stagnating.
The surplus of left-shot defensemen is creating a real headache with players like Kaiden Guhle, Mike Matheson, and young Lane Hutson already in the mix.
Let’s be honest, Engstrom’s value keeps rising while Xhekaj’s seems to be plateauing this season with the Montreal Canadiens.
You have to admit, seeing a prospect of this caliber dominate in this fashion is excellent news for the rebuild.
Now it remains to be seen whether the organization will dare to sacrifice muscle in favor of finesse and controlled zone exits.
Jayden Struble also appears to be inching closer to the exit with this breakout.
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Adam Engstrom’s surge in Laval forces Kent Hughes into a tough decision involving Arber Xhekaj
Should the Montreal Canadiens call up Adam Engstrom right now?