Leafs rookie makes surprising comment about playing in the NHL vs playing in the AHL
After making his debut last Wednesday against the New Jersey Devils, defenseman Mac Hollowell has begun to get comfortable in the NHL. He commented earlier today about his smooth transition from the minor leagues to the big club, even claiming it was a little bit easier than expected.
Surprisingly enough, the Ontario native is comfortable in a spot he's never been before. Since joining the team, he's played 3 NHL agames where he has averaged 12:33 of ice time but has yet to record a single point in his short tenure.
The comment from Hollowell is not one you'd expect from a player who is fresh into the league - especially a defenseman as they tend to take longer to develop. With a strong Maple Leafs team, who has yet to lose with the addition of Hollowell, it makes sense that the young defenseman has faced little to no adversity. It also helps, I'm sure, that he has certainly been sheltered.
So far, Hollowell has been a great addition to a very thin Maple Leafs blue line. He has yet to record a minus in his three games where he has not been on the ice for a single goal. Throughout their last three outings, the Leafs have only given up more than a goal in one of those games.
The former Soo Greyhound and 118th overall pick has upside and adds to an already offensive-minded lineup. Hollowell is only five feet nine inches tall but is another right-handed defenseman who likes to pass the puck. Before being called up, Hollowell had 9 assists in just 11 games for the Marlies this season.
Credit: hockeydb.com
