This season, his role has changed considerably. He’s no longer on the top pairing and his power play time has evaporated, which helps to explain his 19-point pace compared to last season’s 36-point rookie season. His shorthanded time on ice went up from 1:43 per game last season to 3:08 this season, but at even strength, his zone starts have remained basically the same, changing by less than one percent between seasons.
What is particularly eye catching about Zaitsev: His most common linemate is Jake Gardiner. The two have played 750 minutes together and have posted a 49.