Canucks forward's scoring run makes Penguins' decision to move on look questionable
Photo credit: Canucks Daily
Former Penguin Drew O'Connor is thriving in Vancouver right now, as he's red hot as of late, which begs the question of whether Pittsburgh gave up too soon.
The Vancouver Canucks defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning, 6-2, on Nov. 16, and former Pittsburgh Penguins forward Drew O'Connor was a factor in the winning effort.
He struck early into the third period, scoring at 5:51 to extend the Vancouver advantage to 4-2 and firmly take hold of the game.
What Drew O'Connor has done as of late to attract attention
That wasn't a one-off game for O'Connor, who has been hot of late. The versatile winger now has three goals and an assist over his last five games.
A reliable two-way presence during his time in Pittsburgh, he's showing he can provide steady offense given the chance. In 20 games with Vancouver this season, he has five goals and four assists for nine points.
Why many are wondering whether the Penguins gave up too soon on Drew O'Connor
That surge has naturally raised a question in Pittsburgh: Did the Penguins give up too early on him?
After five seasons in black and gold, in which he totaled 30 goals, 36 assists, 66 points, 121 blocks, and 185 hits, O'Connor was dealt to Vancouver along with Marcus Pettersson in February.
His recent production suggests he might be finding another level the Penguins never fully unlocked.
His emergence is a welcome boost for the Canucks, while for the Penguins, this story is something to follow, with O'Connor having much success in this new environment.
The takeaway is clear: O'Connor has settled in quite comfortably into his role in Vancouver, and his play is starting to spark bigger conversations about how his departure might look in hindsight.
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