Sometimes a young player doesn't need to reinvent himself. He just needs a little puck luck, a little confidence, and an opportunity to show what he's capable of. Cole Perfetti appears to be getting all three in Winnipeg, and the early results are encouraging.
Perfetti has scored six goals in his first 14 games, making him one of the Winnipeg Jets' most productive offensive players early this season. He's also getting an opportunity alongside Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor on the top lineside. That's great company, and he’s making the most of it.
What's interesting is that this emergence shouldn't be entirely surprising. Perfetti has always had offensive instincts and the ability to create chances. Last season, his point totals didn't fully reflect how much offence he generated. He had stretches when the opportunities were there, but the finishing wasn't.
That can be frustrating for a young player. You can make the right reads, find open ice and create opportunities, but if the puck doesn't go in, the outside assessment doesn't always reflect what you're doing well.
Playing with Scheifele and Connor gives Perfetti an opportunity to work alongside two established offensive players. ...