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A sample of Moritz Seider's physical play so far in the SHL.
His 34 hits in 15 games ranks 11th in the league. pic.twitter.com/1AzbgOvLkC

— IcehockeyGifs (@IcehockeyG) December 13, 2020

Timashov is back with Lou, and there is a huge gap in team finances throughout the league. We’ve hashed over some unpleasant tidbits, but today it’s all smiles. Moritz Seider (see above) is making his presence known.

When he was drafted, Seider wasn’t as well known to many fans. His showing at development camps made it clear why Yzerman grabbed this young German defenseman at 6th overall. The more he plays, the more promising he looks. Watch the clips above. His movements belie his 6’4” frame. The first hit is a bit of a reversal. An opponent is skating toward him and Seider just brushes him off, and send him flying.

Throughout the clips you’ll notice his return to posture after moving on the ice. His stance allows him to take players out without over-extending. There are some fond memories of Vladdy flooding back. No, Seider isn’t the big Russian brute whose career was cut tragically short. But, his ability to use his size and continue skating is refreshing. Kronwall used to lay some big hits, but it was a “stop and go” style. Brace yourself, launch yourself, and then start skating. What Moritz is doing keeps him in the play while effectively removing an opponent. It’s also a lot of fun to watch.

Just enjoy this quick hit for now. There is reason to be excited about where Yzerman is steering the ship. We won’t see Seider this season unless the NHL is still playing regular season games after his current league finishes. It is easy to see Seider as our top RD. Even as a one-two punch with Hronek, that is still a big improvement and reason for optimism. I’d like to see him right side on the power play with (possibly) Zadina on the left. Beg Lidstrom to teach them how to cross over the way he and Rafalski used to. It was always exciting when those two would switch to the opposite side. You knew that a big shot on net was coming!

These clips and the development of an impressive young defenseman are a nice early Christmas present. Enjoy it Red Wings fans!

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