|
Pavel Buchnevich isn't getting the buzz he deserves. Most Blues fans don't know much about the Russian left winger, so let's take a dive into his potential this year.
'Buch' is already on pace to tally 45 points this season, but I think he'll pass that projection. In 9 games he's got 3 goals (1 PPG) and 2 assists. He's +4 and is averaging 2.7 shots per game. In his last three seasons with the New York Rangers, Pavel's points have increased exponentially. He's coming off his career-best 48 points (20 G, 28 A) in 2020-2021. The thing is, he only played 54 games! He's heating up and I think the Blues grabbed him at the perfect time. Pavel is a certified two-way forward and he's a great asset for special teams. New York was interested in a Jack Eichel trade this summer, and Buchnevich was one of their most valuable assets. He was rumored to be in a package deal with Strome or Chytil. Instead, the Rangers traded for Sammy Blais and a 2022 second round draft pick. I think it's safe to say Army won that trade (been saying that a lot these past few years).
Last night's 3-2 shootout win against the Winnipeg Jets was credited to Jordan Binnington, and rightfully so. Binner stood on his head with 39 saves and a perfect shootout. Buch, however, carried our offense. He scored a goal and had an assist when the Blues were struggling to find the back of the net. Check out his nifty set-up to Jordan Kyrou:
|