Jordan Staal

I mentioned the team’s new second line that has been working wonders lately, but I also feel the need to mention that man, I feel like I share Bob Errey and Paul Steigerwald’s obvious affection for the 18-year-old rookie.

The kid is defensively reliable, kills penalties, cleans up his own end, and now, even more wonderfully, is allowed to play on the second line and deposit the puck in the goal on a regular basis. Even better, he’s only 18 years old, he sometimes blushes when he talks, he’s humble about what he does, and he consistently makes smart plays. Who knows what happens after this season (sophomore slump, please, flee far away), but at this early juncture of his career, I’m hearing fellow fans throw out phrases like future Lady Byng, future Selke Trophy candidate, future 40 goal scorer. And, too, I’m hearing the so-called experts call Staal another franchise player.

All I know is there is no way the Pens are in their current position in the standings without many of their players performing as they have this season—and Staal is one of those players who are a crucial component of this team.

Yeah, I’m really, really glad Ray Shero has kept him in the NHL all season. Juniors? The world juniors? No, seriously—how about the Stanley Cup playoffs?

Seriously. I love Staal. Just had to say that. It’s been awhile since I’ve felt this endearment towards one particular player, but my daydream musings about what arc Staal’s career might take are also pleasant—as is, of course, reading the message boards that mention how obscenely pleasurable it is that one can compare and contrast Staal’s goal totals with those of his older brother and one Jaromir Jagr.

Yeah, it’s been a nice rookie season for the second best rookie on the team. Very nice indeed.