Some thoughts 5 games in.
- Nosek is the straw that stirs the drink on the 4th line. I've liked him so far. It's early, and a tiny sample, but Frederic and Kuhlman have been horrendous when separated from Nosek. 52% xGF with Nosek, 25% away from him. On the usage front, Butch hasn't burried the 4th line quite like he did to Kuraly. When 11-92-83 have been together, they've gotten 53% ozone starts. We'll have to keep an eye on this trend as the year progresses.
- Forbort has been a drag. This signing always scared me. 5 games has not alleviated that concern. He's played with McAvoy and Clifton and both players have better numbers away from Forbort than with him. McAvoy has a 55% xGF with Forbort, 71% xGF without him. Clifton has a 48% xGF with Forbort and 61% without him. Tiny sample size caveats certainly apply but it's been an ugly start to the Forbort era.
- Ullmark has been as advertised so far. Numbers aren't great, but he was victimized by a couple of deflection goals late against San Jose that drags his numbers down due to the small sample thus far. I think he'll be fine as he continues to settle in and gets used to playing behind the Bruins system. Would've liked a save on either the first or 3rd goal last night, but sometimes those go in. We'll see how Swayman responds tonight after his first real NHL hiccup last time out.
- First line looks like the first line. No issues there, they'll do their thing.
- Hall and Coyle have been good, but victimized by some bad luck/goaltending. They've been outscored 5-3, but have a 57% xGF. They should get their head above water at some point.
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