Still Laich-ing A 20-Goal Season?

I had him pegged for 16, primarily because last year he had eight power play goals. He’s not likely to get enough power play time on this year’s version to match that (even though he’s on a pace to do just that). His shooting percentage right now (8.8) is about half what it was last year (17.2). He is, however, on a pace to take almost a third more shots than he took last year.

Yes. When we are 100% healthy and firing on all cylinders, he will be able to be less “conservative” (responsible? stay-at-home? watchful? Selke-like?) and will be more creative/risk-taking.

20 seems a little high, especially since he’s going to be a 3rd liner again if the Caps ever get healthy.

But I still think I’d take the over on 16 goals. So I guess I’m thinking 17-19 this year.

I think 20 is definitely reachable, since he tends to be a bit streaky, but it will mostly depend on whether he gets some PP time or not. Developing some chemistry with consistent linemates probably wouldn’t hurt, either, unless they’re Bradley and Brash, in which case, he’ll be lucky to score 15.

I think that using shooting % to assess Laich is pretty difficult, given his young age and lack of consistent track record. That being said, his 17% last year was probably a bit high. However, he’ll likely get more playing time and more shots this year. If he can pull off a 12-13% (which I think is doable based on past performance), he’ll need about 167 shots to get to 20 goals. Right now, he’s on pace for 161.

Did Laich sore most of his goals last season in the second half?

when you are talking 20-goal pace, one good week could turn all that round. still, maybe 20 is his ceiling. i’d rather see him finish in high consideration for the selke trophy.

I’m a big Laich fan; I even got his jersey this year. It’s the first time ever as a Caps fan that I’ve put a players name on the back. (about 18 years)

I think the big problem right now is he’s being asked to do many other things than scoring. They are changing his line mates every game, changing his position, etc.

Once these injury situations settle down and they get him in one position with the same line mates for a few games in a row I think you’re going to see him hit 20 goals or at least make up for the lack of goals by creating some goals through some nice assists.