Leitner sees improvements in the circle

[scotty 59]

Leitner sees improvements in the circle

 

VASTERAS, Swe. -- Since our last coverage on Leon Leitner's faceoff struggles, the 19-year-old rookie was winning draws at a futile 34.2% clip. There has been a glimmer of hope, however, as Leitner's season-long focus on his work in the circle has seen his percentage rise up to a respectable 40.24% - albeit one that is still far below the league average.

 

Leitner says he's happy with the improvements but knows there's still a long ways to go just yet.

 

"It's definitely nice to see the percentage rising, I've been putting a lot of work into that area of the game and you obviously hope it's going to pay off," Leitner said. "I think as I continue to get stronger and get used to the league, I'll get there soon. My goal is to be a 50% guy in this league. I know it's probably not going to happen this year, but that's my goal moving into next year. I need to get better in the circle."