During his first full NHL season, DeMelo failed to record a goal but added 20 assists in 63 games. Over 291 career pro games (AHL + NHL), DeMelo has scored just 10 goals, so don’t expect him to start scoring any time soon.
Miller had an outstanding 2018 season finishing tied for 23rd among defensemen in goals (10), tied for 25th in assists (31) and tied for 27th in points (41). Miller, who gets sheltered offensive-zone starts, finished the season with a 56.3 CF% and +7.3 relative Corsi. This contract looks like an absolute steal for the Golden Knights.
Kupari bounced around to different teams this year but played the majority of the year in Finland’s top league. Kupari had six goals and eight assists (14 points) in 39 games with Karpat. Kupari is one of the best skating forwards in this draft class and uses that speed to create offence.
Hellebuyck comes into the playoffs riding a nine-game winning streak, posting a .919 SV% in the process. Hellebuyck finished tied for the NHL-lead in wins (44), tied for eighth in GAA (2.36) and 10th in SV% (.924). The Jets possess one of the best offences in the NHL and will be looking to make a deep run. Hellebuyck was 3-1-0 with a 2.50 GAA and .914 SV% vs. the Wild this season.
Iafallo missed the final four games of the regular season with an upper-body injury, but was back in a familiar spot in Monday’s practice. Iafallo, who tallied 25 points (9G / 16A) in 75 games this season, skated on the top-line with Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown. Iafallo seemed confident that he will play Game 1, but head coach John Stevens was not as sure.
Morrissey was given some rest the other night but will draw back in tonight vs. the Flames. Morrissey has scored a goal in his last two games, to give him seven goals and 19 assists (26 points) in 79 games this season.
