With the Anaheim Ducks pushing for a playoff spot in the Western Conference, the acquisition and performance of Adam Henrique from the New Jersey Devils is turning out to be a huge plus.
When theAnaheim DucksacquiredAdam Henriqueback in late November, it was a depth move in the short term to address the injuries that struck the Ducks’ lineup.Ryan KeslerandRyan Getzlafwere both still on the shelf. Henrique was needed to fill in that first line center role that journeymanDerek Granttemporarily held.
What did Henrique do once he was acquired? Henrique made a swift impact and provided instant offense. He went on a five-game point streak as a Duck, notching three goals and three assists.
Now with Kesler and Getzlaf back in the fold and the Ducks as healthy as ever (minusPatrick Eaves), the Ducks have shifted Henrique to the third line center role, centeringNick Ritchieand most recentlyJakob Silfverberg. He is also on the first power play unit and the penalty kill. This makes Henrique one of their best all-around and valuable players who can play in all situations.
I am in awe of how intelligent he is in making decisions with and without the puck. Henrique often makes something out of nothing; most recently seen against the Winnipeg Jets where forwardPatrik Lainewas skating out his defensive zone, all but ending the Ducks’ attack.
Henrique had other ideas. He quickly came off the bench, poked the puck away, and wristed a deadly shot over the right shoulder of Jets’ goaltenderConnor Hellebuyck. He kept the attack alive and finished with a bang.
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Previously, Henrique was playing on the top two lines with the Devils; he can still play at a very high level even though he may not play as high up in the lineup. The Ducks’ can masterfully use this to their advantage.
The Ducks’ most recent five-game homestand showcased Henrique’s skill, grit, and quick hands.Just see the shootout goal he scored against the Jets this past Thursday. He has scored four goals and two assists and is on a five-game point streak yet again. If Henrique can keep producing like this for the Ducks, it will help provide another dependable scoring line at coach Randy Carlyle’s disposal.
Rolling three lines with offense potency is much stronger than rolling just two. We know what Getzlaf and his line can bring. We know what Kesler and his line can bring. Now, we are seeing what special things Henrique and his line can bring.
Next: Heads or tails on the Ducks' season at the break
The Ducks will need all they can from Adam Henrique, offensively and defensively, to make the playoffs. He will be their critical X-factor down the stretch. You better believe that coach Carlyle is going to rely heavily on Henrique and his other top players to show these Ducks must be taken seriously.
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