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NHL Playoffs: 5 sleeper players to watch

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 19, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Justin Williams (14) shoots against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Washington defeated Columbus 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 19, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Justin Williams (14) shoots against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Washington defeated Columbus 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 9, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Blues center Robby Fabbri (15) follows thru on a shot against the Washington Capitals during the second period at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 9, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Blues center Robby Fabbri (15) follows thru on a shot against the Washington Capitals during the second period at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

99. . C. St. Louis Blues. Robby Fabbri. 1. player

If you’re looking for star power, no first round series might be better than what should be a thrilling clash between the Blackhawks and Blues. Chicago still features Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews (among others), while St. Louis’ stars like Vladimir Tarasenko and Alexander Steen are not to be underestimated.

However, both teams are title contenders due to the excellent depth the feature. The Blues are finally getting healthy, meaning they are going to have some tremendously talented players beyond the top six.

One such player is Fabbri, who is primed to become a breakout star this postseason. While the 20-year-0ld was overshadowed by a terrific rookie class that included a generational talent in Connor McDavid, he had one of the best debut seasons of anyone in the NHL this year.

The 2014 first round pick scored the game-winner for St. Louis in the first contest of the season and never looked back, racking up 18 goals and 19 assists. Those 18 goals ranked tied for sixth among rookies, and tied for third even on a star-studded (if oft-injured) Blues team.

Fabbri has been in fine form since the All-Star break in particular as one of St. Louis’ most productive forwards, even as a few players returned from injury. If that continues, the Blues are going to be tough to deal with, even for the defending champion Blackhawks.

The Blues-Blackhawks series will feature a showdown between Fabbri and fellow rookie Artemi Panarin, who racked up 77 points in the regular season.

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