Max Domi, Sam Reinhart Shining In Connor McDavid’s Absence
Max Domi and Sam Reinhart are holding down the fort without Connor McDavid for Team Canada
Max Domi has been one of the most closely watched players in the OHL this season, and it’s paying dividends.
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The Arizona Coyotes shocked the league by returning Domi to the London Knights for one final season, but it seems to be working wonders on his maturity level. The offensive star has been famous for his short temper and a laundry list of retaliatory penalties over his young hockey career, but this season has seen the Knights’ captain act more his age — and as the World Junior Championships loom closer, he’s making his mark on Team Canada, as well.
He’s been skating as a part of the team’s first line in training, debuting alongside Sam Reinhart (prospect for the Buffalo Sabres) and Anthony Duclair (prospect-ish for the New York Rangers) as a part of the fiery trio everyone can’t keep their eyes off of for Team Canada.
The catch? This first line can’t stay together — at least, not with Connor McDavid slotted to return by the start of the WJC.
The infamous center, responsible for the all-too-popular #TankForMcDavid scheme teams have been accused of when underperforming this season, has been out for nearly a month with a self-inflicted broken hand caused by McDavid punching the glass during an on-ice fight. With his doctors confirming that he’ll be back by the games, though, one of these three will have to drop to the second line — and with Reinhart and Domi both versatile natural centers, it’s likely that Duclair might be the odd man out.
Regardless of who gets relegated and who gets to play with Connor, though, one thing is clear — Max Domi might be one of next season’s hottest NHLers to watch.
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