Aleksander Barkov has marshaled much of the overwhelming pressure the Panthers have inflicted on the Rangers in their 2-2 tie heading back to New York.
It’s not off base to say he’s been the most underrated two-way forward throughout most of his career.
Even after winning the Selke Trophy for a second time, that notion only seems to continue as his shots prop of three-or-more is priced at even-money Thursday.
When Barkov has been on the ice, the Panthers have outmatched the Rangers in shot attempts, 132-74, at all strengths through four games, according to Natural Stat Trick.
He went blank on the scoresheet for four contests prior to Game 3, but Barkov’s looks on net have remained steadfast.
The Florida captain has paced himself to 3 ¼ shots per game in the Eastern Conference Final and 2 ²/₃ throughout 15 playoff games.
Part of the reason Barkov’s offense is so undersold is because of his elite defensive prowess.
He’s hard on pucks and plays with a defenseman’s stick, but that only helps him perpetuate turnovers.
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This specialty has been magnified against the Rangers as he found himself alone on Igor Shesterkin twice Tuesday — one of those chances resulting in drawing a penalty to set up the game winner in overtime.
The theme of this series has been Shesterkin’s unwavering play against Florida’s vast advantage at five-on-five.
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Whether or not this should continue, Barkov’s consistency as a five-on-five shooter ranks him No. 14 overall in the playoffs with a 60 percent unblocked shot attempt rate.
The play: Aleksander Barkov to Record 3+ Shots on Goal (+100, FanDuel)
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