Claimed: Schmeckeldorf Struggling [1/2]

[Corco 1,266]

Titans Rookie Struggling to Adjust to VHL

Helsinki's Rudolph Schmeckeldorf (center-left) battles for a puck against Stockholm's Sven Wolf

HELSINKI, Finland - Throughout the first eight games of the S54 VHL season, it is safe to say the the 7th overall pick in the recent VHL Draft is struggling. The Swiss forward has only managed to score a meager two points so far in the season, putting up one goal and one assist. Schmeckeldorf is currently tied for last place in points on the team with Daryl Dortch. While nobody exactly expected Schmeckeldorf to light it up in his rookie season, it's also safe to say that nobody expected him to only put up 18 points in his rookie season (his current pace).

Although he is unlikely to continue this tepid style of play for the rest of the season, the sooner Schmeckeldorf snaps out of this current funk, the better off not only will he be, but the whole Helsinki Titans as well. In the leagues current situation, the up and coming Titans need all players firing on all cylinders to take down the two juggernauts; the Stockholm Vikings and the New York Americans.

 

The Titans are currently being led offensively by Black Velvet, Franchise Cornerstone, and Theo Axelsson, all of whom have ten or more points and were expected by pundits to lead the Titans throughout the whole season, so it's not surprise to see them at the top of the scoresheet most nights. Hudson Abbott, Schmeckeldorf's fellow rookie and the first overall pick of the most recent draft is certainly faring better than his Swiss counterpart, as he has 3 goals and 5 assists in 8 games, and is definitely a dark horse candidate to win the Rookie of the Year award, along with forwards John Locke (QUE) and Motherfucker Sharpe (NYA). Much-maligned goaltender Astrid Moon has been solid so far, but not spectacular, posting a 2.19 GAA and .910 Save Percentage, although he definitely is snakebitten in the shootout; the Titans have three shooutout losses on the season so far, and have not lost in regulation yet. Moon's shootout percentage needs to improve from its current number of .462 if the Titans want to gain valuable ground on the Vikings.

 

One has to wonder, is it Schmeckeldorf's play-style that is the reason for the rough transition to the VHL from the VHLM? The winger isn't extremely soft, as he can hold his own against some stronger defenders in the VHL, however he is certainly not a hit-first, ask questions later type of player; he currently has zero hits and zero penalties on the season. These stats do raise an important question though; if Schmeckeldorf keeps up these stat totals could he be a contender for Most Sportsmanlike at the end of the season? New York's Tom Lincoln currently appears to have a stranglehold on the award, however Schmeckeldorf looks to be knocking on the door.

[Higgins 3,618]

No where to go but up, possible most improved battle next season? Always looking at the bright side

[Da Trifecta 1,902]

Give us time to age. We are like fine wine.

[eaglesfan036 4,605]

could probably be a better goalie than Astrid Moon

[Da Trifecta 1,902]

Could probably disinfect the VHL of all and everything Gow related.

[Kendrick 4,741]

It's okay Corco, you'll find your groove.

[DollarAndADream 3,357]

Review:

Obviously it's hard to predict anything in STHS really, but Schmeck will surely pick it up. Both you and Dortch are getting the minutes, and with both quality players it should get better. You got the vets + Cornerstone getting all the points, while you guys are playing with them as well. It's just 10 games, I think Dortch should get at least 40 points and you at least 30.

 

Who the fuck knows though.