Yes, you heard me exactly right. This season, plenty of high-profile rookies like Tomas Hertl, Nathan McKinnon, and Seth Jones have taken the NHL by storm. But those are some of the biggest names. What about the other rookies in this year's class who've also had an impact for their teams? Let's take a look:
1. Defenseman Hampus Lindholm (Anaheim Ducks): He's only 19, but he has averaged more than 19 minutes a game and is a plus-9 so far this season. He's also playing with veteran Francois Beauchemin on his line and has shown considerable speed and poise while playing. He has two assists so far this season.
2. Right wing Alex Chiasson (Dallas Stars): Chiasson is third on the team with six poitns in seven games. He also played last season with the Stars, and has 9 goals in his first 14 NHL games that he's played. He played three seasons at Boston University and then went to the AHL for 66 games before being brought up to Dallas. He has 14 shots on goal going into Sunday's game against the Ducks. He's also 6-4, which is mighty tall for a right winger.
3. Defenseman Ryan Murray (Columbus Blue Jackets): Honestly, I didn't hear about this kid before I read the article on him. He's a No. 2 overall draft pick who suffered a major shoulder injury last season and left the spotlight. Now, he is playing about 16 minutes a game for the Blue Jackets and is even. That doesn't seem impressive, but the team's defense is mainly in the minus zone. Eventually, scouts believe he will develop into a smooth defender that the Blue Jackets need to make it to the playoffs this season.
4. Center Mark Arcobello (Edmonton Oilers): If Edmonton is so packed with rookies, why can't them even score or win? But this former Yale player might help. The undrafted Arcobello has eight assists in nine games with the Oilers. Better not slip off fast. These Oilers are at the bottom of the Pacific and they need all the help they can get.
5. Matthew Nieto (San Jose Sharks): With all the attention for the Sharks centered on Thomas Hertl, this California native has been a solid contributor to this team. He has two goals, three assists, and 17 shots on goal while playing 10 or 11 minutes a game. Pretty good. But again, overshadowed by Tomas Hertl.
There are many more rookies that are making solid contributions as well. Good luck to this rookie class. You're making the NHL proud.
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