Montreal Canadiens GM talked about their first overall pick's performance (Source: Imagn)
Montreal Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes shared his thoughts on Juraj Slafkovsky’s recent struggles this season. He talked on Wednesday, during the mid-season media availability. Hughes acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the young forward’s potential.
“I think he [Juraj Slafkovsky] is capable of doing more. I think he knows that,” Hughes said. “Are we surprised? No. I told him in the summer when we signed him that we expect him to have highs & lows. That his progression won’t be linear. He’s not alone in this situation.”
Slafkovsky, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NHL draft, has shown mixed results this season. In 37 games, he has scored four goals and added 18 assists for 22 points. However, his defensive struggles are evident with a -11 plus/minus rating. His performance has been better in wins, where he has contributed three goals and 12 assists. In losses, his production drops to one goal and six assists.
