As a veteran blueliner, Edmonton Oilers defenceman Andrej Sekera was instrumental in the team’s improvement this season.
Not only was Sekera outstanding on defence, he proved that he is deserving of $6.5 million a year. Here’s how he stacked up this season.
Overall Impact
Sekera took a huge step forward this season and built on his all-around game. Combining his shutdown mentality with a bit of offensive edge, the 30-year-old was strong at both ends of the rink. He was a leader on and off the ice, and also showed potential to take his game to the next level, even after years in the league.
Edmonton Oilers
Not to mention, he was a role model and a presence for the Oilers relatively young blue line. With outstanding chemistry and a positive attitude, as well as remarkable awareness, Sekera did a lot for the Oilers this season.
Stats
Through 80 games this season, Sekera had eight goals and a career-high 35 points and was a plus-14. That is a huge step forwarrd from his minus-15 stat line last year. Sekera also had 128 shots on goal, and spent more time contributing by moving the puck.
Defensively, he was solid. Though he had just 55 hits, he finished with 166 shot blocks. Possession-wise, he could do better; he gave away the puck 92 times, and finished with a relative Corsi of -.8. While his Corsi was under 50 percent, his Fenwick of 51.1 percent tells a different story, not taking shot blocks into account. For the most part, Sekera maintained possession of the puck, but could avoid turning it over too often.
In the playoffs, Sekera added more edge. Through 11 games, he finished with a goal and three points, and had 13 hits and 11 blocks. However, he was a minus-1, and has 13 giveaways for just six takeaways.
Next: Edmonton Oilers Season in Review: Adam Larsson
Overall Grade; B+
Sekera had many steps in the right direction and was the team’s top defenceman. His scoring totals were also outstanding, and he showed potential to serve more of a role moving the puck. However, he must work on turnovers and better maintain control of the puck.