LOS ANGELESDylan Olsen is making the most of his latest stint with the Chicago Blackhawks.
The defenseman is learning on the fly as any rookie would, although pairing with Duncan Keith has helped out in that process. And while hes a left-handed shot, hes also adaptingagainto the right side.
The Blackhawks have been happy with Olsen, who has soaking up everything in his second stint with the team this season. Coach Joel Quenneville likes what he sees thus far.
I like his size, his presence out there, Quenneville said. He has a nice shot, hes quick and strong in the puck areas and hes growing nicely with Duncs. Its been a nice pair.
Olsen is a plus-1 in his brief time with the Blackhawks this season and has a heavy shot in his repertoire. Hes also made the move to the right side, and Keith said hes done well there.
Hes physical and hes got a good stick. A left-handed shot playing the right side can be difficult with some of the angles and getting blindsided but hes been pretty good at it, Keith said. I find its a tough side to play.
Olsen has played the right some in juniors and in college so its not a complete surprise. Still, its an adjustment.
NHL
Its just moving the puck up in your zone together, watch going cross-ice instead of going up the wall. And when youre rimming pucks you have to try and stop it on your backhand, which is tougher. Just little things like that, Olsen said. But you practice on it, work on it and carry it over during the game.
Its all been a learning experience for Olsen, but so far, so good.
Its been getting better every game. I make a few mistakes but theyre going to happen, Olsen said. Ever since I paired with Duncs weve been playing well together. He communicates with me every time, helps me out. We want to keep going from here.