I like this play style comp between Cirelli and McLeod. Both defensive centers, Cirelli so far has offered slightly more offensive output (and even a little power play) but McLeod is a much better PKer. McLeod does have a pretty high xGAR, he needs to find some finish.
Looking back though a lot of threads at the top of the off-season people were including Cirelli as a main target (I even saw a post offering 11+Krebs and kulich). I think Kevyn and staff see McLeod as a younger, cheaper option – one that was available as well.
by Diligent_Shoe7853
4 Comments
I think the evidence points to McLeod having some more offense under the hood that the Sabres might be able to get out of him as they improve their scoring depth
McLeod has great xGF numbers but a pretty low GF due to a low on ice sh% of ~7.5%. He does not generate much offense through his own shooting which matches what Oilers fans have said about him being a perimeter player. But his microstats show he excels at shot assists off the forecheck within the O-zone
If the Sabres match him with some shooting talent and players who will drive the net I could easily see him being more of a 40-50 point player than 30. He played the most with Corey Perry and Warren Foegele which is not at all bad linemates. Not sure if the Sabres will put 2 better wingers with him this season
But next season? Maybe its Benson in his 3rd year and Rosen/Kulich? or Kulich and Wahlberg? I could see a decent increase in McLeod’s points
Definitely hopeful tho
Cirelli ascension unique
Deffo many silver linings there
Not selling that low on savoie ultimately
Underwhelming moreso than train wreck
McLeod had zero assists in the 24 games he played in the playoffs. Cirelli would never. #realist
Yesterday I said they were looking to buy Cirelli without paying for Cirelli, and these cards make me feel pretty good about the comparison